The Lives of Twenty-Two Eminent English Divines, Biography 10

The Lives of Twenty-Two Eminent English Divines · Biography 10

D^r. PRESTON.

p. 95The Life of Doctor Preston, who died Anno Christi, 1628.

Iohn Preston, the Son of Thomas and Alice Preston, was born at Heyford in Northamptonshire, a town divided by a little River into the upper and lower Heyfords, His Birth.and is in Maps oft written in the plural number; It is a Rectory, and hath a fair Church in the lower Heyfords, but yet stands in divers Parishes. That Farme wherein Master Thomas Preston lived, is in Bugbrook Parish, where they buried and baptized, where we find that John the Sonne of Thomas Preston was baptized, Octob. 27. 1587. but was descended from that Family of the Prestons, that lived at Preston in Lancashire, from whence his great Grandfather removed, upon occasion of a fatall quarrel with one Master Bradshaw, a neighbour Gentleman, whom in his own defence he slew, and satisfied the Law, and was acquitted for it; but not the Kindred, who waited an opportunity to be revenged, as the manner in those Northern Countries then was. It fell out not long after, that Master Bradshaws next Brother meets Master Preston, near to the place where he had slain his Brother, and told him he should do as much for him, or he would revenge his Brothers blood. Master Preston told him he had slain his Brother against his will, and in his own defence: that he bare no evil will unto them; desired him he would forbear, but when no thing would prevail, they fought, and Bradshaw fell again.

But Master Preston, was troubled and grieved at it, for he saw a fire was kindled that would not easily be quenched, and therefore resolved that he would leave that fatall and unlucky Countrey, though he was a Gentleman of a very fair estate; and walking one day pensive in Westminster-Hall, one Master Morgan of Heyford, with whom he was acquainted, came unto him, and asked why he was so sad? To whom for answer, he relates the former story. Master Morgan knowing him to be a gallant man, was very sensible of his estate, and told him if he would go with him to Heyford, he should have a good Farm to live in for the present, and what accommodation he could afford him. Master Preston thanked him, and after some consideration of the matter, resolved to take his offer, and so Master Preston of Preston in Lancashire, became a kind of Farmer in Northamptonshire, where he afterwards lived and died, and his Son succeeded him, and so it came to Thomas Preston, as we have said.

p. 96His Mothers name before she married, was Marsh, but she had an Uncle by the Mothers side, whose name was Craswel, a man of means and good esteem in Northampton where he lived, and where he had been several times Maior. This Uncle being rich, and having no Child, was very carefull of her,His education. and took this Sonne whilest he was young unto himself, and sent him to the Free-School in Northampton, where he was a Scholar under the Government of Master Sanderson, then Master of the School, and after under Master Wastel, who succeeded him; and when he had been there some time, his Uncle was perswaded to remove him into Bedfordshire, unto one Master Guest, who had sometime taught a private School in Northampton, and was accounted a better teacher of the Greek tongue, from whence after he had perfected his Studies in the Greek, he was sent to Cambridge, and admitted of Kings Colledge, under the tuition of Master Busse, one of the Fellows, Anno Dom. 1684. where he did,His going to Cambridge. as young Scholars use to do, that is, applied himself to that which was the genius of the Colledge, and that was musick; and finding that the Theory was short and soon attained, he made account the practice would also be so; and accordingly adventured on the Noblest but hardest Instrument, the Lute, but here he found that Art was long, and was not willing to attend it; he used to say within himself, while he was fingering of his Instrument, quantum hoc tempore legi potuit: and whilest his fingers were thus distempered and foundred upon the Lute, it fell out that his Tutor, Master Busse, was chosen Master of the School at Eaton, and so removed from the Colledge about two years after he was admitted. Coming not from Eaten School, but from another, he could not be of the foundation, and was therefore uncapable of those preferments in the Colledge that were of most worth, and the sooner perswaded also for to remove, which he did unto Queens Colledge,His remove to Queens Colledge. where he was received and admitted under the tuition of Master Oliver Bowles, one of the Fellows of that House, a very godly learned man, and a noted and carefull Tutor, under whose Government he setled to his Book and left his musick, and by whose conduct and directions he grew in knowledge, and was improved unto very thriving and undertakings in his Studies.

It is not nothing to be well descended, fortes creantur fortibus & bonis, Sheep and Neat bred in Lancashire, or on the Peak-hils, and after driven into Northamptonshire, and planted there, produce a very gallant race. These Prestons though removed from their native soil, and much impaired in their Revenue, retained yet the garb and mettal of their Ancestors, they carried themselves and were accounted Gentlemen; something there was in this young Prestons spirit that was not vulgar, I have seen in a Book of his, under his own hand, when he was young, such sparklings of aspiring ingenuity, as argued in him something that was not common.

He was as yet but Junier Sophister, but looked high, and grew acquainted with those that were Gentile, and fancied state-affairs and Courtship, that had desires or dispositions to be Secretaries or Agents p. 97in Princes Courts; thought it below him to be a Minister, and the study of Divinity, a kind of honest siliness, and accordingly got in with a Merchant, by whose means he did procure that he should live in Paris, and learn the language and garb of France; and another Gentleman in recompence, should be received and entertained in London, to learn our garb and language. Master Creswel of Northampton was by this time dead, and had bequeathed certain Lands in that Town to him after his Wives decease; These Lands he sels to put himself into a posture fit for that design; but here he now began to find that he had reckoned without his Host, and that he should have said, if the Lord will I shall live and do this or that, Jam. 4.15. for the Merchant dies before the exchange could be accomplished, and so these blooming hopes, that had thus long held up his imagination died with the Merchant.

He was of an able, firm, well-tempered constitution, brown,His Character. comely visage, vigorous and vivide eye, but somewhat inclining to that kind of melancholly, that ariseth from a dust and parched choler, which now began a little to be discovered in him. For being mated in his first design, he grew discouraged, went not so much abroad among the Gallants, but struck sail to fortune and retired; yet his appetite was rather dammed then dried up; for after a very little pause and boyling over of his sullennesse, he begins to steer again the same course, although by more certain and domestick mediums, and if he must be shut up and confined to the Muses, resolves to be no ordinary Servant to them; his genius led him unto natural Philosophy, which by that time was become his proper task; which he undertakes, not as boyes use to do, to serve their present use, but with devotion, resolves to leave no secret unattempted; adoreth Aristotle as his Tutelary Saint, and had a happinesse to enter often where others stuck, and what broke others teeth, was nuts to him, no dark untrodden path in all his Physicks or Metaphysicks, but he was perfect in it; and so drowned and devoted was he, that he seldom or never could be seen abroad, to the wonder and amazement of his former brave companions, so that no time passed, sine linea;His studiousnesse. not that between the ringing and tolling of the Bell to meals; and for his sleep he made it short; and whereas notwithstanding all endeavours, there was one in the Colledge that would alwaies be up before him, he would let the bed-cloths hang down, so that in the night they might fall off, and so the cold awaken him; insomuch that his Tutor was constrained to read unto him moderation, and to tell him, as their might be intemperance in meats and drinks, so also there might be in studies; but the evil of it as yet he felt not, the sweet and good he did, came off with honour and applause in all his acts, and was admired in the Regent House when he sate for his degree, both by the Posers and all the Masters that examined him, and from that time much observed throughout the University.

About this time his Tutor [Master Bowles,] was called to the Rectory of Sutton in Bedfordshire, and so left the Coledge, and another of the p. 98Fellows, then Master, (afterward) Doctor Porter became his Tutor, a very learned man and great Philosopher, who never went about for to disswade him from his studies, but gave him all assistance and encouragement. The year following it came unto his Tutor to be Head-Lecturer in the Colledge, and Sir Preston being to probleme in the Chappel, made such an accurate and strong position, and answered so understandingly, that his Tutor borrowed his Position of him, when he had done, to look on and peruse; and finding it elaborate, resolved to make more use of it, then ever his Pupil did intend. The Master of the Colledge at that time was Doctor Tyndal, who was also Dean of Ely, and resided for the most part there; thither his Tutor goes, and carries his Position with him, which he sh…wed it to the Master, and acquainted him with what he had observed, that he was a youth of parts and worth, and deserved some incouragement; the Master was an honest gallant man, and loved a Scholar, and was glad of any oppotunity to shew it, and so bids his Tutor send Sir Preston over unto Ely to him, where he assured him, he should not want what was in him to do him good; and bad him hold on, and he would take care for him: and there being an Election in the Colledge, soon after he was chosen Fellow by unanimous consent of Master and Fellows, and his Tutor Master Porter brought him word of it, as he was at study, not thinking any thing, and told him that he must come down into the Chappel presently to be admitted,He is chosen Fellow. and accordingly was admitted Fellow of Queens Colledge in Cambridge Anno Dom. 1609. That is, five years after his first admission in the University: he was not so much moved at it, as young Students use to be, because he looked still at higher things, and had not quit in his retired thoughts his first design of being some body at Court, to which he thought this honour might be a bar, this courtesie was compes to him, yet it was not manners to be discontent, but attend what should ensue; he was by this time grown a Master in Philosophy, had waded far in Aristotle, and had met with few that were able to encounter him, and therefore now resolves to go another while to School, to Hippocrates and Galen, and verifie what is so often said, ubi desinit Philosophus, incipit medicus; He had a very penetrating wit, and exact and solid judgment, to conjecture at effects in causes,He studies Physick. and prognosticate events; and being skilfull in Philosophy before, soon made the Theory his own, but because perfectio scientiarum est in summitate, the life and vigour of a science, is in the practice, he resolves to make enquiry after that. Books make not men Practitioners in any Art, Nemo ex libris evasit artifex, he retires unto a friend of his in Kent, who was very famous for his practice, where he earnestly attended and waited on the trade and way of knowing Simples, and compounding Medicines, wherein he attained to that sufficiency, that had Divinity failed, he might have been another Butler; yet what he had was not in vain; for when any of his Pupils were amisse, though he sent them alwaies unto Physicians, yet himself perused, and many times corrected their Prescriptions.

p. 99It was not easie to allay his eager, and unsatisfied appetite and apprehension with any one art, Eccl. 5.10. He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver. Crescit amor nummi quantum ipsa pecunia crescit. The more you put into the soul, the wider presently it retcheth. He thought he could not be a good Physician, that could not read the powers of the Herbs and Plants in Stars and Planets,His study of Astrology. acquaints himself with Ptolomy, and other Authors in Astrology, and other curious Arts and Calculations, as they are called, Act. 19.19. that he might be able to study, not only Books, but Men, and to read mens fortunes in the heavenly bodies; but he could not, nor did not read his own. There was a Soothsayer that told Agathocles he should be slain the next monethmonth: who asked, How long he thought he should live after him? He answered, Many years. He told him he would prove one of the two false, and leave the other to the issue, and so commanded for to hang him presently. Master Preston was very busie among the houses of the Planets, but saw not there his own Domestick doom, nor what his Maker had determined concerning him, for as he was in these coelestial contemplations, it fell out, that Master Cotton then Fellow of Emanuel Colledge, preached in Saint Maries, where Master Preston hearing him,His Conversion. was set about another exercise, constrained from his contemplations in Astrology, to look into himself, and consider what might possibly befall him; it was his manner, as it is of other Students, when they come home from Saints Maries Sermons, to run unto their studies presently, or what is worse; but this young Student was forced to retire and ruminate: This Sermon had breaved him of two beloved notions, one was his low opinion of the Ministry and Preaching, for he saw an over-ruling gravity and majesty in that Sermon, that he thought had been impossible to Pulpits. I have heard it often in the Colledge, that he took away sixteen Answers in a Probleme in the Chappel; but here was one he knew not how to take away: Sed haeret lateri lethalis arundo, no cunning in Philosophy, or skill in Physick would suffice to heal this wound. Another was his great opinion of, and ambition after State-employments, for these were higher things that now were offered to him, concernments of eternal influence, which nothing could divert that he had studied hitherto; there have been divers eminent and great Physicians that began in medling with their own infirmities. Self-love rides alwaies on the fore-horse. His own accounts and aking conscience, set Luther first upon the study of Divinity. Master Preston after this affront and baffle in the Pulpit, wanted ease, and when he could not find it in his other Books and Studies, begins a little to look into the Bible, and to consider of the study of Divinity. In the prosecution of his study in Philosophy, he found many of the Schoolmen quoted, and so was willing for to look a little into them, and finding those he light on, pithy and sententious, went on; it gave him ease, that he was now a Student in Divinity, and had left Albumasar and Guido, and such high-flown speculations, yet it pleased him for to see and find his Master Aristole, so often quoted, and in such request among them, and thought p. 100if that were to be a Preacher, he might adventure well enough upon it, and so was drawn on very far in the study of the School-Divines. I have heard him say, There was nothing that ever Scotus or Occham wrote, but he had weighed and examined; he delighted much to read them in the first and oldest Editions that could be got. I have still a Scotus in a very old print, and a paper not inferiour to parchment, that hath his hand, and notes upon it throughout; yet he continued longer in Aquinas, whose Summes he would sometimes read as the Barbar cut his hair, and when fell upon the place he read, he would not lay down his Book but blow it off, and in this tune he continued, untill a rumour came into the University that the King would shortly come to visit them. King James was happier in his education, then his Mother would have had him. It pleased God to breed a Buchanan on purpose, for to guide his younger years, and by that time he was ripe, Scotland was grown acquainted with Geneva, and the King no stranger unto Calvins way. The News awakened all the University, and there were few but promised to themselves some good from this fair gale, that seeing promotion came neither from the East, nor from the West, nor from the South, Psal. 75.6. it must and would come from the North; and the Proverb be inverted, and be, Omne bonum ab Aquilone.

Doctor Harsnet, Master of Pembroke-hall was then Vice-Chancellour, a prudent well-advised Governour, who knowing well the critical and able apprehension of the King, was very carefull and sollicitous to pitch upon the ablest in every faculty, for Actors in that solemn entertainment, and himself made choice of Master Preston to answer the Philosophy Act, and sent unto him to provide himself. He was ambitious enough by nature, and had this news come a little sooner, nothing had been more suitable to his design and inclination. But now the Gentleman was Planet-struck, grown dull and phlegmatick; Master Cottons Sermon had so invaded him, that Kings and Courts were no such great things with him, especially when he understood that another was resolved on for answerer.

Doctor Wren was then a very pregnant Scholar in Pembroke-hall, and also Chaplain unto Bishop Andrews, and thought fit to be imployed in this Commencement service, but was not willing to have any other place but answerer: the Vice-Chancellour urged his promise and engagement unto Master Preston, and his opinion of his great ability, but nothing would serve. The Vice-Chancellors Colledge, and the Bishops Chaplain must have Precedency, which he most seriously excused to Master Preston, He is chosen to oppose before the King.and endeavoured to reconcile him to the first opponents place, which he declined, as being too obnoxious unto the answerer, who is indeed the Lord and Ruler of the Act; but there was no removing now, and so he goes about it with much unwillingnesse, being rather driven then drawn unto it.

His great and first care was to bring his Argument unto a head, without affronts or interruptions from the Answerer, and so made all his Major Propositions plausible and firm, that his adversary might neither be p. 101willing nor able to enter there, and the Minor still was backed by other Syllogismes, and so the Argument went on unto the issue: which fell out well for Master Preston, for in Disputations of consequence, the Answerers are many times so fearfull of the event, that they flur and trouble the opponents all they can, and deny things evident, which had been the case in all the former Acts; there was such wrangling about their Syllogismes, that fullied and clouded the debates extreamly, and put the Kings acumen into straits; but when Master Preston still cleared his way, and nothing was denied, but what was ready to be proved, the King was greatly satisfied, and gave good heed, which he might well do, because the question was tempered and fitted unto his content; namely, Whether Dogs could make Syllogismes.

The opponent urged that they could, an Enthymeme (said he) is a lawfull and reall Syllogisme, but Dogs can make them; he instanced in an Hound who hath the major Proposition in his mind, namely, The Hare is gone either this or that way; smels out the minor with his nose; namely, She is not gone that way, and follows the Conclusion, Ergo this way with open mouth. The instance suited with the Auditory, and was applauded, and put the Answerer to his distinctions, that Dogs might have sagacity, but not sapience, in things especially of prey, and that did concern their belly, might be nasutuli, but not logici; had much in their mouthes, little in their minds, unlesse it had relation to their mouthes; that their lips were larger then their understandings: Which the opponent still endeavouring to wipe off with another Syllogisme, and put the Dogs upon a fresh scent, the Moderator Doctor Reade began to be afraid, and to think how troublesome a pack of Hounds, well followed and applauded at last might prove, and so came in into the Answerers aid, and told the Opponent that his Dogs, he did believe, were very weary, and desired him to take them off, and start some other Argument; and when the opponent would not yield, but hallowed still and put them on, he interposed his authority and silenced him. The King in his conceit was all this while upon New-market heath, and liked the sport, and therefore stands up, and tells the Moderator plainly he was not satisfied in all that had been answered, but did believe an Hound had more in him then was imagined. I had my self (said he) a Dog, that stragling far from all his fellows, had light upon a very fresh scent, but considering he was all alone, and had none to second and assist him in it, observes the place and goes away unto his fellows, and by such yelling arguments as they best understand, prevailed with a party of them to go along with him, and bringing them unto the place, pursued it unto an open view. Now the King desired for to know how this could be contrived and carried on without the use and exercise of understanding, or what the Moderator could have done in that case better, and desired him that either he would think better of his Dogs, or not so highly of himself.

The Opponent also desired leave to pursue the Kings game, which he had started unto an issue, but the Answerer protested that his Majesties p. 102Dogs were alwaies to be excepted, who hunted not by common Law, but by Prerogative. And the Moderator fearing the King might let loose another of his Hounds, and make more work, applies himself with all submisse devotion to the King, acknowledged his Dogs were able to out-do him, besought his Majesty for to believe they had the better; that he would consider how his illustrious influence had already ripened and concocted, all their Arguments and Understandings; that whereas in the morning the reverend and grave Divines could not make Syllogismes, the Lawyers could not, nor the Physicians; now every Dog could, especially his Majesties.

All men acknowledged it it was a good bit to close with. It was grown late, and so the Congregation was removed unto the Regent-house, and the King went off well pleased with the businesse. The other Acts were easily forgotten, but the discourse and Logick of the Dogs was fresh in mouth and memory, the Philosophy-act applauded universally. The King commended all the Actors, but above all, the Opponent. It was easie to discern that the Kings Hound had opened a way for Master Preston at the Court, if he were willing; yet many of the great ones put him in mind, and promised all assistance and encouragement. Sir Fulke Greevill, afterward Lord Brook, was taken greatly with him, and after many demonstrations of his real love, setled at last a stipend on him of fifty pounds per annum, and was his friend unto his last hour; but his ambition after Courtship was well allayed, so as he did not ravenously pursue it. But being now resolved to be a Minister, fell to the study of modern Writers, especially Master Calvin, whose very stile and language much affected him. The Corutiers wondered that he did not bite, Prov. 19.15. In the light of the Kings countenance is life, and his favour like a cloud of the latter rain. That a young man should not be ambitious, that a good eye should not see; began to be a little jealous of him.

He was reserved naturally, and could keep counsell; few knew how Master Cottons Sermon had affected and wrought upon him. But this not sailing when the wind blew, begat suspition. Some judged he was modest, and wanted opportunity to bring him on; some that he was melancholy, and so neglected what was proper for him to intend; some busie and intent upon his Pupils, who now began to come from all parts. But the Politicians assured, it was some inclination unto Puritanisme, a name now odious at Court; for it could not be, (said they) that he should let so fair an opportunity miscarry, if he had not something else in view. Kings think themselves exreamly undervalued, if a word be not enough; Cardinal Poole being chosen Pope at midnight by the Conclave, and sent unto, to come and be admitted, desired it might be let alone untill the morning, because it was not a work of darknesse. An honest Argument, but not Italian enough; Quis nisi mentis inops? And so they went back and chose another. When Balaam came not at the first call, see how Balak reasons, Numb. 22.37. Am I not able to promote thee? But Master Preston had indeed another King in his thoughts, p. 103when he had found treasure in the field, he parts with all for that, Mat. 13.44. A purchase is not worth the having, that hath not either some convenience annexed, or may not some way be improved. God was a greater good then man, Heaven then earth, a Crown of Glory then a crown of gold. But this neglect and self-denyal, was well interpreted by good men, and that opinion of affecting Puritanes, which blasted him at Court, began to blazon him at home, and work a reputation, that to him was more acceptable. Men thought him meet for to be trusted with the care of youth; and many had their eyes upon him, for their Sons or Friends. Master Morgan of Heyfords, His many Pupils.had been sometime dead, and had left his Son and heir an Orphan, in trust with some that were his Kinsmen, and like to mannage his estate to most advantage. This Master Morgans Sonne, under whose shadow these Prestons had for some time lived, was by his Guardians now commended to his care; not only for that relation he had to Heyfords his native Town, and to the Family, but also that by that means the young Gentleman might be preserved from the influence of his other Friends, who were many of them popish. King James had been so well pleased at the Commencement held before him lately, that he resolves upon another visit. The Heads agree to entertain him with a Comedy. There was one Fuggles of Clare-hall, that had made a jeering Comedy against the Lawyers called Ignoramus. This was resolved on for to be acted before the King, and great care was taken for to furnish and accommodate all parts, with Actors answerable. Master Morgan was a comely modest Gentleman, and it was believed, would well become a womans dresse, and accordingly his Tutor [Master Preston sent to,] that he would give way and all encouragement unto the service. He liked not the motion,His zeal. could not believe that his Friends intended he should be a Player, and so desired to be excused. But the Guardians were not so exact and scrupulous, but though if he played this Game well, he might winne more then could be hoped for elsewhere; and so Master Morgan was allowed by his Guardians to play his part, and afterward removed unto Oxford, and suffered to play what part he would, and so relapsed unto Popery, which hath proved fatal and infortunate to him and his.

But here was matter for Mr. Prestons back Friends, to argue he was not a Courtier, that would envy so small a courtesie to those, that had so freely offered greater unto him; and it was resented with a kind of angry indignation, that their offers had so little influence upon him; and there were some that watched opportunities to make him sensible of this neglect. There is no such Soloecisme at Court as Independency. S… non vis ut per illos tibi benè sit, efficient ut sit malè. But Master Preston by this time had cast up all accounts, and resolved to stand unto his bargain whatsoever it cost him. Only he thought if he must be a Puritan, and bid farewell to all his carnal and Court-designes; He would not be one of the lower rank, but would get places if he could. Mediocribus esse Poetis, non dii, non homines, non concessere columnae. That p. 104counsell of the wise man, Eccl. 9.10. Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might, he alwaies practised. And what is commonly said, was true in him. In magnis ingeniis nihil mediocre. This faithfulness to Master Morgan, attended with so great a shadow upon himself, increased his reputation in the Countrey,His diligence. so that now he was accounted the only Tutor; and being carefull to read unto them, and direct their studies, he found himself abridged of his own time, and was constrained to take up time, that should have been bestowed on his body. He also grew acquainted now with many eminent and godly Ministers, as Master Dod, and Master Hildersham, who would come often to his Chamber, and he was so hardened in his way, that he would get them many times to go to Prayer with his Pupils, a boldnesse not adventured on by any other; but by these labours his able body was debilitated. It was a great Orator that said, Primò desii velle causas agere, deindè desii posse. At first, said he, I would not plead, at last I could not. Master Preston in his youth would not sleep, but let the bed-cloathes hang down, and awaken him: Now he could not, but about midnight still awakened, and slept no more; whereby in time his body languished, and could not answer as in former times. Master Butler of Clare-hall, was then the Oracle in Physick, to him he goes, and opens his condition to him; who after some few questions bids him take Tobacco, and so leaves him. He knew that Butler was odde and humourous, and thought he might give this advice to try him, and therefore resolves to wait a while before he medled with so odde a Medicine, which Hippocrates and Galen had never ordained to any of their Patients, and was at that time not so common, and of no good report; but his want of rest continuing, and his appetite unto his Book encreasing, he goes again to Master Butler, as a stranger, and propounds the case again. Master Butler gives the same advice, and being satisfied that he was serious now, falls to taking of it, and found that this hot copious fume ascending, did draw those crudities from the stomacks mouth, that hindered concoction of his meat, and vapours from it that occasion sleep, and so restored his rest, and that in time his strength, and so he went on in his work, untill Doctor Tyndal [Master of the Colledge] died. He was an old man, and that preferment of the Mastership of Queens, was more accounted of then now it is. There were very many that had their eyes upon it, but Doctor Mountain in a special manner, who was often heard for to professe he would rather be Master of that Colledge then Dean of Westminster. But Master Preston had another in his eye, Doctor Davenant, was a Gentleman descended, and was a Fellow-Commoner, when under Graduate, but very painfull, and of great capacity, and grew accordingly in learning and in reputation, and for his worth and parts was already chosen Margaret Professour, and read in the Schools with much applause, those excellent Lectures upon the Colossians which now are printed; him Master Preston pitched upon, but knew it must be carried very privately; for the mountain was already grown into some bignesse, was one of parts, and first observed in acting Miles gloriosus in the Colledge, and p. 105had been Chaplain unto the Earl of Essex, but like the Heliotrope or flower of the Sunne, did now adore Sir Robert Carr, already Viscount Rochester, the only Favourite. When it was agreed among the Persians, that he should reign, whose horse first saw the rising Sun, and neighed at it, one turned his horse head towards the mountains, beleiving that the Sun would first arise there; but it fell not out so here. Master Preston having laid his plot before-hand, and seen what mountain was in his way, had taken care that word should be daily brought him how the old Doctor did, and when he found him irrecoverable, laid horses and all things ready; and upon notice of his being dead, goes presently and was at London, and in White-Hall before any light appeared on the mountain top; the Court was quiet, and he had some Friends there. His businesse only was to get a free Election, which he made means for to procure: but knowing also with whom he had to do, makes some addresses unto Viscount Rochester, in the behalf of Doctor Davenant, who being unacquainted with his Chaplains appetite to that particular, was fair and willing to befriend a learned enterprise. So Master Preston returns unto the Colledge before the Masters death was much took notice of; and assembling Doctor Davenants Friends, acquaints them with what had past at Court, and so they went immediately to Election, and it was easily and fairly carried for Doctor Davenant, who being called, was admitted presently. But when Doctor Mountain understood that Doctor Tyndal was departed, he sends and goes to Court and Colledge for to make friends: But alas the Game was played, and he was shut out. Never did Aetna or Vesuvius more fume, but there was no cure; only he threatens▪ and takes on against the Actors, but they were innocent and not obnoxious. This Doctor had made great promises, gave a very goodly piece of Plate unto the Colledge with this Inscription, Sic incipio, but now he vowed it should be Sic desino. However the Colledge for the present was well apaid, and grew in reputation very much; and because they wanted room to entertain the numbers that flocked to them, built that goodly Fabrick that contains many fair lodgings both for Scholars and Fellows, towards Kings Colledge.

It was not long before it came to Master Prestons course for to be Dean and Catechist, which he resolved to improve by going through a Body of Divinity, that might be a guide unto the Scholars in their Studies in Divinity: for it was not his opinion that others should do as he had done, that is, peruse the Schoolmen first, and then come to the modern Writers; but first read Summes and Systemes in Divinity, and settle their opinions and judgements, and then read Fathers, Schoolmen, or what they had a mind to. This being known, and some honest Townsmen hearing him at first by chance, there came the next day very many for to hear him, and the next day more, both Townsmen and Schollars from other Colledges, so that the outward Chappel would be often full before the Fellows came. Master Preston was of a very meek and quiet spirit, never resented injuries, nor provoked any unto aversnesse, yet had some enemies: Si injuria multos tibi fecit inimicos, p. 106faciet invidia multos. What had Paul done, Act. 13.45. for to deserve so sharp an opposition, but envy moved them? There had been other Deans and Catechists before this Gentleman, yet no such crowding. Complaint was made to the Vice Chancellour of this unusual kind of Catechizing, it was assured, not only that Townsmen and Scholars mingled, but other Colledges intruded also, that the Fellows for the crowd and multitude could not get through, and come to Chappel to their places; that it was not safe for any man to be thus adored, and doted on, unlesse they had a mind to cry up Puritanisme, which would in short time pull them down; that the Crosier staff would not support them long, if such Assemblies were encouraged: Obsta principiis, serò medicina paratur, &c.

Well, upon the whole an Order was agreed on in the Consistory, and sent unto the Colledge, that the Scholars and Townsmen should be confined to their proper Preachers, that no stranger, neither Townsman nor Scholar, should presume on any pretence whatsoever, to come unto those Lectures, that were proper only to the Members of the Colledge. The Edict was observed punctually, and the Auditory by it much impaired. Had strangers still been suffered to attend, those Sermons had been printed as well as others: for there were divers that exactly noted, and wrote out all fair, unto the time of this restraint, but no one after that could go on with it, and so it rests. But he went on, and was assiduous to the years end, and waded through it, which was a very great help unto many of his Pupils, who made the greater benefit of those things, because they were not common and in Print.

About that time the Lecture at Trinity-Church, and the Sermons at Saint Andrews were prohibited, and the Scholars all confined to Saint Maries, which did occasion Master Preston to read Divinity unto his Pupils on the Lords days, at three of the clock in the afternoon, which he also often did upon the week days; but the Townsmen and the Scholars of other Colledges, that had tasted of his spirit in the Chappel, endeavoured that he would do it where they might hear. Buttolphs belongs unto Queens Colledge, and is usually supplied by one of that House; there he is willing to make a tryal, how it would take, and resolves the next Lords day to preach at three of the clock after Saint Maries Sermons should be ended; which though but very little known, occasioned such a throng and crowd, as was incredible. Men were not cloyed with preaching then, nor waxed wanton. There dwelt then in the Parish one Doctor Newcombe, a Civilian, and Commissary to the Chancellour of Ely, who being in the Church, and seeing the crowd, commanded that evening Prayer only should be read, but no Sermon; the Minister intreated that for that time Master Preston might be allowed to preach, so did the Earl of Lincolne and others in the Church; but he was resolute, and because he would not be further importuned, went home with all his Family, and left them to determine at their perill what they would do; so upon advice it was concluded that the Sermon should go on, and Master Preston preached a very favoury and holy p. 107Sermon, upon 2 Pet. 3.17, 18. There was so much time spent in debates about it, and messages before the Commissary left the Congregation, that it was too late to do both, and therefore they adventured for that time to forbear Common-Prayer, that so the Scholars might depart, and be at Colledge-Prayers. But this instructed Doctor Newcomb in his complaint. The Court was then near hand, that is, at New-market; thither the Commissary goes the next day, and having the Bishop of Ely there, and many other Clergy men, assures them that Master Preston was in heart, and would quickly be in practice a Non-conformist, and was so followed and adored in the University, that unlesse some speedy course were taken with him, they might cast their caps at all Conformity, and see their power troden underfoot, and told them gentlenesse was not the way, for he was cunning, and would recover all if he were not seriously and throughly dealt with.

There was no Advocate for Master Preston, but the Doctor being first in his own cause, seemed just, Prov. 18.17. And spake to those that were willing to believe. The Puritans began to be considerable, and they doubted he might come in time to head them. It's a great security to a man to be despised: Contempto nullus diligenter nocet. A Fellow that hath nothing in him, nor is not owned, may be exorbitant, as he of one in his time: Contemptu jam liber erat. But David that hath a Party following him, must have an Army to attend him. And therefore he did wisely to professe himself to be a dead dog or a flea, 1 Sam. 24.14. The King was made acquainted with this complaint, and assured that Master Preston had as strong an influence into the Puritants as the principal of the Jesuites, which was Aqua Viva, had upon them, and therefore it behoved him to consider what to do. A word was enough to a wise and jealous King, who did not love to play an after Game, and therefore hears himself the Doctors information; enquires whether the Bishops and Chancellors Jurisdiction extended unto Members of a Colledge, and finally concludes to proceed against him by the power of the University. A Letter is framed unto Doctor Scot, Master of Clare-hall, Vice-Chancellour at that time, and to the Heads, to call before them Master Preston, to give a strict account of that notorious disobedience unto the Commissary; he answers mildly, that he was not guilty; refers himself unto the Auditory, that evening Prayer was omitted, because the Scholars might depart in due time, seeing the time alloted for it, was spent in treating with the Commissary, not out of any disrespect unto the service, which he himself did usually attend at other times. When the Wolf complained that the Lamb had fouled the water, that he was to drink; The Lamb answered that if he had defiled it, yet that could not prejudice the Wolf who was above, and the mud would certainly be carried downward; but this answer did not fill the hungry belly of the Wolf. Master Prestons innocency did aggravate his crime, which was his popularity, and therefore they told him they were engaged to support by all just meanes the Bishops Jurisdiction, that the King had honoured him, in leaving that affront to p. 108be examined by his proper Judges, and that except he could take off the Court, they must and would proceed to a very round and serious censure.

Musa mihi causas memora, quo numine laeso,

Quidvè dolens regina deûm, tot volvere casus,

Insignem pietate virum, tot adire labores

Impulerit; tantaene animis coelestibus irae?

That a Fellow of a Colledge for preaching of an innocent and honest Sermon, in a Church belonging to the Colledge, by the consent and in the hearing of the Incumbent, should be thus vigorously undertaken.

Among many other Gentlemen of quality, that were Pupils unto Master Preston at this time, there was one Sir Capel Bedels, an Orphan, of a very fair estate in Huntingtonshire, a Daughters Sonne of old Sir Arthur Capel, who being Guardian to his Grand-child, had recommended him as he had done many of his own Sons unto his Government. It was a great trust, and Master Prestons care was answerable. And because plus vident oculi, he had his spies, that gave him notice of all their carriages and correspondencies; by one of these he was informed that Sir Capel haunted Doctor Newcombs house, and was familiar with his Daughter [Mistress Jane Newcomb,] a very proper well-bred Gentlewoman; his Tutor asked if they were contracted, he answered, no, but would be very shortly, as he was told, for he was resolved to have her. Master Preston charged him to keep all secret, that Sir Capel might not think he was acguainted with it, and immediately appoints a journey unto Saffron-walden, to take the aire, and see that stately pyle at Audley-end, and takes divers of his Fellow-Commoners along, as he used to do at other times; and among others, this Sir Capel Bedels: When they had dined and viewed the house, it was propounded by one of them, that they might go that night to Haddam, and visit old Sir Arthur Capel, seeing they were thus far on their way, and it was late. Master Preston seemed to be indifferent, and so the Proposition took, and with none more then with Sir Capel, who knew his Grandfather would fill his pockets, and that would sweeten his Newcomb Mistress next embraces, and make him welcome to her. The old Knight was glad to entertain such welcome guests, and that night there was no discourse, but of the stately Rooms, and goodly Gallery at Audley-end, and so the young men went to bed pleased, that the Colledge-bell next morning would not awaken them; but Master Preston slept not in utramque aurem, but awakened betimes, and acquaints Sir Arthur with all the businesse, adviseth him, by no means to permit the Gentlemans return unto the Colledge; for though the wound might seem quite cured, and he never so much engage forbearance, yet frequent apparitions would redintegrate: Et nihil facilius quam amor recrudescit. Sir Arthur was a very wise man, and had experience of the world, thanks Master Preston for his faithfulnesse; pretends Sir Capel wanted something, and desires his Tutor p. 109to give him leave to stay a little while untill he could be furnished, and then he should be sent, to which the Tutor easily consented, and so the rest went home; and after a while the old man tels Sir Capel he grew in bignesse, and it would be fit for him to travell before he setled, and he prevails with him to be content.

But what saies Mistresse Newcomb, who is robb'd by this means of her vowed and resolved servant, and her crafty Father that beholds so good a morsell snatched from between his teeth; do ye think he had forgotten this when Master Preston came to preach within his Jurisdiction? Pulvere qui laedunt, sed laesi marmore scribunt, other injuries perhaps may be forgotten, but losse of money is not; ploratur lachrym…s amissa pecunia veris.

Master Preston was not altogether a stranger at the Court, however now there was no remedy; when he came to New-market, he found that Bishop Andrews, then Bishop of Ely, was chief, and that his Jurisdiction in the Commissary, was it that was pretended to be affronted, and therefore applied himself to him, and told him that he did not purpose to offend, but being ingaged for to preach at that time, could not with honour disappoint the Auditory; if he suspected him for any thing, desired he would examine him, and satisfie himself. The Bishop told him the King was told he was an enemy to Formes of Prayer, and held no Prayer lawful but conceived; and therefore being popular, his judgment and opinion might do hurt. Master Preston answered that it was a slander, for he thought Set Formes lawfull, and refused not on all occasions to be present at the Colledge-Prayers, and when it was his turn, to read them. The Bishop answered, that he was glad, and would inform the King, and do him all the good he could, and bad him wait a while, and then repair again to him for satisfaction in it, and so time passed on, and there was nothing done. There were some at Court that wished well to Master Preston, Sed lapsuro assistere formidant, were loth to undertake a drooping cause; only there was one Doctor Young, an honest Scotchman, that was Dean of Winchester, and he told Master Preston plainly,The Bishops Hypocrisie. that Bishop Andrews was his greatest adversary, and though he gave him good words, yet had assured the King, that if Master Preston were not for this expeld the University, Lord Bishops would not long continue; but because Master Preston was accounted, and not without cause, a learned man, he was not willing to appear against him; but desired the punishment might be inflicted, where the fact was done, and that was in the University.

Master Preston saw now that the Bishop was a Courtier, and could give words, where deeds were not intended, and therefore goes again unto the Bishop, and tels him plainly that he or none must put a period to his attendance,His courage. and that either he would speak unto the King in his behalf, or tell him plainly that he would not, that he might know whence all this trouble flowed. The Bishop paused a while on this bold carriage, and at the last bad him come to him such a time p. 110again, and he would deal with the King in his behalf.

So he goes unto the King, and tels him that however Master Preston was very dangerous, and it would be a very great security if he were handsomely expelled, yet he doubted it would not hear well, if it should be done for this offence; for he would be absolved in the opinions and minds of men, and be owned and applauded as their Martyr, and might perhaps recover, and live to be revenged; and therefore thought it would be better, for to enjoyn him to declare his judgment about Forms of Prayer; for that would be accounted a recantation, and however would weaken his reputation, with the Puritans, which would be enough: for if they could divide him from his Party, they should not fear him; for he said, his carriage argued confidence in some assistance, which when they had removed, they should be strong enough at single hand. All that the Bishop spake, was as if ex tripode; and order presently was drawn, and sent to the Vice-Chancellor, that Master Preston should in Buttolphs Church declare his judgment, concerning Formes of Prayer, on such a Sunday, or else they should immediately proceed against him, according to their first instructions.

Master Preston was glad there was a way out, but sensible of the hard hand, that had been carried towards him; but now there was no remedy, and it was vain to strive against the stream; but before he could come home, the news was all about the Town, that Master Preston was to preach a Recantation Sermon at Buttolphs Church on such a day. This was good sport to the brave blades, who now came crowding as fast as any, for to hear, and it was no sin now for any body to be from Prayers; and indeed there was a very great Assembly, though he did all he could to have concealed it. So he went on upon his former text, and preached a very profitable Sermon, concerning growing in grace, and directed Prayer, as a speciall meanes to make men grow in grace. Now that (he said) was of two sorts,His Prudence. either that which was suddain, extemporary, and conceived; or set, enjoyned, and prescribed before, not only for the sense and scope, but also words and phrases. And whereas some thought this was to stint the spirit, he said, there was a liberty to use conceived Prayer at other times, wherein the spirit might expatiate, and inlarge it self; and also the intention of the mind, though not in extension and variety of language. The Blades that came to laugh, had no great cause to do it, for this passage was at the very close; and the Sermon all along before, was sharp and searching; both sides were silent and went home, not without some prints of good upon their spirits: Optimus Orator censendus, non qui meruit auditorum judicium, sed qui abstulit. He makes the best speech that binds his Hearers, rather to think what was said, then who said it. The good fellows were nothing so merry at the end, as at the beginning of the Sermon. Indifferent Hearers praised all, and were confirmed in a good opinion of the Preacher. Good men were glad he came so well off, and was at liberty to preach again, where they might hear him: himself was troubled, lest any thing he said, should be mistaken or mis-interpreted, as he was apt to be.

p. 111But there were many eyes upon this action, and all men waited to see the issue. The Courtiers did not like it, that after all these tossings to and fro, he should thus light upon his feet, yet would not meddle for the present, but wait occasions. Those that were well-affected, were glad he was engaged against the Court and Bishops, and did presage he might be instrumental to their downfall, and every body laboured to ingage him more and more against them. The Spanish match was then the common talk, and great unwillingnesse appeared in the people generally; and Doctor Willet had presumed to offer Arguments unto the King against matching with Idolaters. The King was greatly vext at this adventure, and took great paines to perswade the Doctor, that a Papist was not an Idolater: Sed non persuadebat etiamsi persuaserat. The people were unsatisfied, and there being then a Parliament, a very Honourable and able Member of the House of Lords prevailed with Master Preston to write some Arguments against it. And though there were severe Edicts and Proclamations against scandalous Papers, and intermedling with Mysteries of State, yet he promised, it should be scattered and divulged unto fit persons, and none should know from whence, or from whom it came; accordingly when it was finished and written fair, one gave it to a Porter, whom he met in Holborne, and bad him leave it, according to the direction. The next day a great Lord comes unto him, that had perswaded Master Preston unto the service, and tels him, that he had met with such a piece against the Spanish match, as he never saw, and protested he was convinced, that he must speak against it in the House, what ever came of it. The other asked him who made it, and where he had it: he assured him, he knew not, but it was left at his lodging, by he knew not whom. The Lord desired he might see it, and so it was copied out, and spread among those of the Parliament they thought fit, but the Authour of it never known.

King James had something alwayes in his Writings and Speeches against the Puritans, which was ill taken, for that it was apparent, those meant thereby, were godly, conscientious persons. The House of Commons was the only mote in King James his eye, the Remora, (as he conceived) unto his absolute dominion, for he knew not how for to engaged them, as he did the Lawyers and Divines; but if he stopped one mouth with preferment this Parliament, there would be others open the next against him. There were some now that adventured to apologize for Puritans, and to say in Parliament, that honest men were wounded under that name; and to propose that godly Ministers might not be silenced, and thrown out of their Free-holds for trifles and Ceremonies. But King James would none of that stuff, breaks up the Parliament, and sets out Proclamations: Sed quid prodest totius regionis silentium, si affectus fremant. People love not to be enforced unto duty: Homines duci volunt non cogi.

The Chaplains that attended monethly at the Court, were not ambitious of preaching over-often, and so a Combination was agreed on for Preachers before the King, when ever he should lie within twelve p. 112miles of Cambridge: The King did not despair of making Scholars his, and therefore used all endeavours to oblige them, especially Cambridge men, where a seed of Puritans had been a long time; and though the Plains about Royston and New-market afforded better Winter-game then elsewhere; yet Scholars he conceived might be catcht sometimes, as well as Hares, and so was willing they should preach before him. Young men he knew would preach themselves: Omnis oratio docet, aut rem, aut animum dicentis. He should learn either things, or persons.

By this means it came to Master Prestons turn to preach before the King at Royston; he was so muffled at Court in Doctor Newcombs businesse that he knew not what to do, could not decline it altogether, for that would have exposed him unto too much observation; and yet he greatly feared what might befall him in the doing of it: therefore he changed his course with one that was to preach a little after, and did it very privately, that if his enemies should have designes, they might be disappointed, and so it was not much known. When he was to preach, it fell out that his course came upon a Tuesday, when the King did lie at Finching brook; the Court was very thin, and the Prince and Duke of Buckingham were both abroad, and the King himself was for an hunting match that day, and gave order that the Sermon should begin at eight of the clock. Master Preston had some at the Court that were solicitous as well as he, and they told him it would give very great content, if he would take some occasion in the Sermon, to shew his judgment, as he had done before about Se… Formes. Doctor Young Deane of Winchester, Master Preston preacheth before the King.(of whom we spake before) did then attend, and when the King came in, and sate down in the chair, he told him who it was that preached, and said, he hoped he would give content; I pray God he do, said the King. The Sermon is in print, upon John 1.16. which he so clearly opened and applied, that the King sate all the while as quiet as could be, and never stirred nor spake to any body, but by his looks discovered he was pleased; when all was done, he came unto him as the manner was to kisse his hand; and the King asked him of what Preston he was descended, he answered of that in Lancashire: Then said the King, you have many of your name and kindred very eminent; and Preston the Priest, although a Papist, is a very learned man.

Great haste was made to bring in dinner, and the King was very pleasant all the time, had his eye continually upon Master Preston, and spake of divers passages in the Sermon with much content, especially that of the Arminians putting God into the same extreamity, that Darius was put in, Dan. 6. when he would have saved Daniel, but could not: but as soon as ever he was retired, the Marquesse Hamilton kneeled down, and besought him, that he might commend the Preacher to him for his Chaplain, protested he did not so much as know him, but that he was moved by the weight and strength of that he had delivered; told him, he spake no pen and ink-horn language, but as one that comprehended, what he said, and that he could not but have substance and matter in him. The King acknowledged all, but said it was too early, remembred New-market businesse, and was reserved.

p. 113Sir Ralph Freeman, one of the Masters of Requests, had married a Kinswoman of the Duke of Buckhinghams, and was a Kinsman unto Master Preston; he makes relation of the businesse unto the Duke, and told him, if now he would appear in favour of his Cousin Preston, he might oblige the Puritans, and lay a ground-work for his own security, if tempests should arise; assured him that Master Preston was ingenuous, and might be made, that the King and all the Court were taken with the Sermon, and did approve it. The Duke of Buckingham was a wise man, and apprehensive of what Sir Ralph suggested seasonably, saw those they called Puritans were growing, and in the Parliament were thought considerable, knew that the Kings affections might cool, and he might need friends, and took Sir Ralphs discourse into his most serious thoughts. An honest man, one Master Packer, was then his Secretary, and he set on what Sir Ralph Freeman had suggested, and so it came unto a resolution, that Master Preston should be owned; and the Duke commanded Sir Ralph Freeman, to go to Master Preston from him, and acquaint him with his good opinion of him, and desire to see him; and indeed there was such a concurrence, and concentring of opinions and desires among the Courtiers, that it was assured Master Preston, he might be Chaplain unto whom he would, and that was now the deliberation, which of these offers he should accept, and whom he would acknowledge his Patron and Protector for the time to come. There was not so few Clergy men at Court at any time, and so no kind of opposition; yet the King himself hung back, and would do nothing hastily; he was not reconcileable unto the Puritans, and so desired not in that respect for to ingage him; but he desired to deprive them of Master Preston, and to divide him from them, and would do any thing that might drive that on; and considering how many he had wonne, that Master Preston was a young man and might be drawn on, he would not hinder nor oppose; so it was the joynt opinion of all his friends, that the best preferment was to be the Princes Chaplain, who then was grown and had an houshold. This therefore was represented unto Sir Ralph Freeman, and his opinion required, who quickly yielded and proposed it unto the Duke: both Prince and Duke had been abroad, and neither of them heard the Sermon; when therefore Master Preston was brought unto the Duke, he very seriously received him; told him it was the Prince his unhappinesse and his, to be absent when he did preach, and therefore desired him that he would vouchsafe a Copy of his Sermon to him, and believe that he would be ready, to the best and utmost of his power to serve him.

There were many other Courtiers that desired Copies of the Sermon, and the Court not staying there, Master Preston came home to furnish Copies. He never penned Sermon word for word but wrote what came into his mind, and as it came, and that in no good hand; and so it was a businesse to provide these Copies, which yet he seriously attended till they were written fair, and then to Court he goes, where the Duke presents him to the Prince, and so he was made and p. 114admitted Chaplain to the Prince in Ordinary;He is made the Prince his Chaplain. for as then the Prince had not compleated the number he intended, which was six, who were accordingly to wait two moneths by the year, and preach unto the houshold upon the Lords daies, and perform such duties as were required of them.

But God was making other work for Master Preston; for Doctor Tolson, Bishop of Salisbury dies, and leaves a Wife and many Children unprovided for; for he had been Bishop but a little while. This Wife of his was Doctor Davenants Sister; in pity therefore and commiseration of her case, it was proposed to the King by those that were his Friends, that Doctor Davenant, a single man, and well-deserving, might succeed his Brother in the Bishoprick, and so make some provision for his Children. The King thought very well of Doctor Davenant, not only for his singular abilities and labours in the University, but for his pains also, and service in the Synod of Dort against Arminius; and it was looked on as a deed of charity, and so believed he would carry it, and be the man.

But this created Master Prestons cares; Doctor Davenant had been his constant and faithfull Friend, and given countenance upon all occasions to him and all his Pupils. But now who should succeed? and where should Master Preston find another shelter? The Fellows for the most part were not his Friends, envied his numbers, and great relations, and there was no man like so to befriend him. Besides, the Margaret-Professors place would be void also by this remove, and many able stirring Batchelors in Divinity, proposed unto him that place, and assured him the Election would be easily carried for him.

The truth is, he had no great hope to do any great good in the Election of the Master of the Colledge, and one Doctor Mansel being named, a very moderate good-natured man, he let that care fall, and was more anxious about the Professors place; for though sound doctrine in the University was of much use, yet English preaching was like to work more, and win more souls to God.

He alwaies highly valued, and frequently consulted with Master Dod; and he perswaded English preaching, as that wherein God was more immediately served, and said, there were others that might supply the University in the Professors place, that either could not, or would not labour mens Conversion. And indeed the Master of Sidney-Colledge Doctor Ward, a vast Scholar, was then in view and nomination for the Professors place; yet Master Preston was so solicited by honest men, that he knew not what to do: Two things he thought he wanted to enable him. The one was a Latine tongue, the other a Latine style; in both which, by reason of desuetude, he was unready. For his style therefore, he resolves upon an exact and logical Analysis of all the Epistles, which would actuate and exercise his style, and acquaint him with the Scripture-phrase and language; and if he were called to be Professour, might serve for Lectures in the Schooles; which work he p. 115immediately applied himself unto, and very happily compleated a work of great pains unto him, and in it self of great worth; but being Latine, and written only with his own ill hand, was not thought popular enough to come abroad, but lieth in the dark.

For the exercising of his Latine tongue, he resolves a journey into the Netherlands, where he should have much occasion of speaking Latine, and see those Colledges and Universities; but there was no travelling beyond Sea, without a License under the hands of Privy-Counsellors; this he procures among his Friends with all the secrecy that could be, and a great while before he meant to use it, that he might conceale it from the Colledge and University; but this his secrecy begat suspition that there was some plot. Velle putant quodcunque potest: It is not safe for men to have abilities. It was resented so much the more, because no Clergy man was made acquainted with it, and the opinion was, that something was brewing against Episcopacy. This they were sure of, that Amsterdam was in the Netherlands, and ever had been fatal to the Hierarchy. The Lord Keeper then was Bishop Williams, he sees this plague afar off, Prov. 22.3. and provides a Messenger to go along unknown to Master Preston, that should observe and give intelligence weekly of all that passed: Integer vitae scelerisque purus, non eget Jaculis nec arcu. A breast-plate of righteousnesse is a better guard then a shirt or coat of male. It was Davids uprightnesse that did preserve him, Psal. 25.21. so was it Master Prestons, for he knew nothing of this attendance, till after his return, but gave out in the Colledge, and among his Pupils, that he would go the next Vacation into Kent, to visit Sir Richard Sands, and drink if he saw cause, the Tunbridge waters, concludes to take one of his Pupils with him, a Yorkshire Gentleman, Sir Henry Slingsbys Sonne and Heir; and did accordingly acquaint his Father and make Provision for it long before. The time came,His travel in the Low-Countries. and he goes into Kent, and is received in the passage boat for Rotterdam, in the garb and notion of a Gentleman, with his skarlet cloak and gold hatband, and all things answerable; and so goes over all the Provinces, both Protestant and Popish, where there was any thing observable, and encounters frequently with divers Priests and Jesuites, professing himself a Protestant Gentleman that was willing to find out the truth, and try all Tenents, and accordingly was courted by them very much, and solicited to be a Papist; and they gave him very many popish Books, and so he came back into Kent, and to the Colledge at the time appointed, unknown to any in the Colledge, but only one of his Pupils, from whom he seldome concealed any thing. He was no sooner setled in the Colledge, but a rumour flies abroad, that Master Preston had been beyond the Seas; he shewed them that it was incredible, and wonders at their sillinesse, that they would beleeve so unlikely a relation; the matter was not great, now all was past, and so it rested doubtfull and undetermined.

He had a long time been successefull in the way of Pupils, but Doctor Davenants leaving of the Colledge troubled him. A great Tutor, p. 116hath much occasion to use the Masters influence, for accommodation and advancement of his Pupils, which now he saw he could not promise unto himself; and it fell out much about this time, that Doctor Dunn, Preacher at Lincolns-Inne died, and some in that society proposed that Master Preston might be tried whether he were willing to accept that place for Tearm time: He was himself, neither carelesse, nor cracking of his good name: Famae nec incuriosus, nec venditator. But it was much grown by reason of his successe in the conflicts and encounters he had at Court. It was some refreshing unto honest men, that Master Preston, so resolute, and constant in the waies of God, was yet the Prince his Chaplin, and helped forward the desire of these men; it suted with him, to have an opportunity to exercise his Ministry in a considerable and intelligent Congregation, where he was assured, many Parliament men, and others of his best acquaintance would be his hearers;He is chosen to Lincolns-Inne. and where in Tearm time, he should be well accommodated, so he consented and undertook the place; the Chappel then was very little, and at the first, the numbers that attended on his Ministry, besides their own society, were few, but when the Chappel was new built, as now it is, the numbers were exceeding great, that were his constant hearers, and foundations laid, that will not easily be ruined.

This was some ease unto his grieved mind, for Doctor Davenants leaving of the Colledge and University; but filled not his great capacity and large desire of doing good; the Colledge he gave over in his thoughts, but not the University, where his Preaching was much resented, and made great impressions; and though at Lincolns-Inne he had Gown-men to be his Hearers, yet they were not like to propagate and spread it. A Preacher in the University, doth generare patres, beget begetters, and transmit unto posterity, what God is pleased to reveal to him; In a word, doth what the Apostle doth enjoyn, 2 Tim. 2.2. and he of all men, thirsted after opportunities of doing service, and might well say with the Spouse, that he was sick of love, Cant. 2.5.

Some of the Fellows of Emanuel Colledge were very eminent for parts and learning, yet clouded and obscured, (as they thought) by an opinion that lay upon the Colledge, that they were Puritans, that is, not only Godly and Religious, (for so they were, and were content to be esteemed) but non-conformists, and averse to Government; for which cause there had been lately some alteration made, both in their Chappel, and manner of their diet; they thought therefore, if they could prevail with Doctor Chaderton their present Master, to resign, who was establisht in it by the Founder, and named in the Statute, but was grown very old, and had out-lived many of those great relations, which he had before, they might perhaps procure that Master Preston might succeed him, and bring the Colledge into reputation, being a good man, and yet a Courtier, the Prince his Chaplin, and very gracious with the Duke of Buckingham. But this was sooner said then done, the old Doctor was exceeding wary and jealous not only of his own disparagement, but especially p. 117of the good and welfare of that brave foundation that had grown and flourished under his Government so long; for if it were but known that he were out, there were divers lay in wait to get a Mandate, and come in against their minds; a fresh example whereof they had lately seen in their next neighbours, Christs Colledge, where after Master Pemberton was chosen, Doctor Carew Dean of Exeter, was forced on them, and did all he could to mould a new, and alter the constitution and genius of the Colledge. But the Fellows answered, that this might be better hindered and prevented whilest he was alive, then at his death; for his resignation might be carried privately, but his death could not, and if all the Fellows were content, the Election might be past before the resignation were discovered; and so they promised to found and try the judgment of the other Fellows, and then repair again unto him.

There were two things in the Colledge that (in their Opinions) greatly pinched them. The one was the Statute for attendance and continuance whilst they were Fellows, so that they had not opportunity to live in Noble-mens Houses, or take Lectures to exercise their Ministry, and make themselves known unto such as had it in their power to prefer them. Another was the Statute of departing at such a standing, whether they were provided or not provided; and there was then a fresh example in Doctor Traverse, a man of great worth, yet forced to sojourn as a Fellow-Commoner in Christs Colledge untill he could be better accommodated; the Fellows therefore were easily induced to affect this change; for they thought Master Preston might be an instrument by reason of his great acquaintance, either to get some mitigation of the Statute, or procure more livings to be annexed to the Colledge for their preferment.

So they returned to the old man, and told him that the Fellows were all agreed, and ready to do what he should prescribe, and it rested now in him to prevent the danger that did threaten, not only them in their particular concernments, but the growing good and welfare also of the Colledge. The poor man wist not what to do; to out-live the Mastership he thought was to out-live himself, and to go into his grave alive; yet he honoured and loved Master Preston very much, and could not answer that dilemma of the Colledge-safety; therefore he told them he would not be wanting to the Colledge-good, but it concerned them as well as himself, to provide they were not cheated, and another forced on them, whether they would or not; and therefore desired that Master Preston might be requested to deal with his Friends at Court, and procure some promise that there should be no Mandate granted, in case his resignation should be known; he told them likewise how unprovided he was for maintenance, when that was gone, and how unseemly it would be for him now in his old age for to want, and therefore desired he might be taken in this particular into consideration. But Master Preston quickly eased the old man of all these fears, by procuring a Letter from the Duke of Buckingham in these words.