The Lives of Twenty-Two Eminent English Divines, Biography 7
The Life and Death of Master William Bradshaw, who died Anno Christi, 1618.
IT hath from time to time been the lot of divers persons of singular worth, and eminent parts, that they have lived in obscurity, and in a low condition, and past their time without that due respect, and regard, which their excellent endowments might justly have claimed; partly through the shortnesse of outward supplies; (for, they get not up easily, though never so well deserving, that are scanted in that kinde) partly by reason of an inward bashfulnesse, and over-awing modesty, accompanied with an undervaluing repute of themselves, and their own abilities; and partly through the iniquity of the times, wherein they have lived, and the disaffection of those who have swayed most in the State and Government under which they have resided. Such was the condition of that worthy and faithfull servant of the Lord, Master William Bradshaw, though a man richly endowed, as well with such spiritual graces, as in truth are of highest esteem, being peculiar to Gods favourites, that have interest in his Christ, as with such gifts and parts also, as might, and did render him usefull and instrumental for the publick good of Gods people; yet never enjoying any plentifull condition; howsoever never prone to complain of want; nor forward at any time, or in any place to put himself forth, as having ever a very low and mean conceit of his own parts, and admiring in others, what his own eye either could not descry, or would not take notice of (howsoever to others conspicuous enough) in himself; and being never suffered to continue long quiet in any setled place of more publick imployment, through the envy and malice of some that had a jealous eye on him, and the disturbances of him in the work of his Ministry, set on foot by others ill-affected towards him, but accrewing from the same, pursued by some of those, who were of greatest power and authority in Ecclesiastical affairs, and could not brook any, that did not in all particulars comply with them and their courses, as they conceived him not to do.
He was born at Bosworth, a Market-Town in Leicestershire, famous for the Battell fought near to it, wherein that bloody Usurper, Richard the third lost his Crown, (attained by the unnatural murther of his two Nephews in their non-age,) together with his life.His Parentage. His Father Nicholas Bradshaw, though descended from an ancient Family of the Bradshaws in Lancashire, with the crest of whose Coat therefore being a Buck browzing, this our Brother used to seal; yet living but in a mean condition, and being not so well able therefore to train this his Son up in learning as he desired; an Uncle that he had at Worcester undertook the education of him;His Education at Worcester. whether being Master of the Free-School there, as some have supposed, or of some other Profession, as some other conjecture: for that he hath been heard to report, that Master William May, (who was sometime by the Turky Merchants imployed at Aleppo, and afterward lived and ended his dayes in or about London, a man of more then ordinary skill in the learned languages, and in Exposition of Scripture very accurate and exact) was Teacher in a publick School at Worcester, while he lived there; relating withall, what a neat man he then was, howsoever in his after-dayes he grew Cynically sordid, and by his uncouth deportment and jealous disposition, made himself nothing so usefull to others, as otherwise he might have been. But however it was for his Uncles Profession, under him (who by some Relations of his may not improbably be deemed to have been a Scrivener or publike Notary) he was brought up and kept at School, untill it pleased God to bereave him of this support by his death. After whose decease, returning home to his Father at Bosworth, His return to Bosworth.he was enforced, though very much against his minde and desire, to intermit the prosecution of his studies in literature for some space of time; His Father now designing him to some other course of life out of despaire of maintaining him in a way so chargeable, as his meanes, being not large, would not reach unto; especially having other Children, three Sons and two Daughters to provide for, besides him. But while the disposall of him hung thus in suspence, it pleased the Lord (who is wont to have a more speciall Providence over those, whom in his secret purpose he hath fore-designed unto the work of his Ministry, Gods Providence in providing for himto have them fitted for the same) to stir up the spirit of one Master Ainsworth, a man of much worth, then School-Master at Ashby de la Zouch in Leicestershire, to divert his Parents purpose of disposing him to any other imployment. For by his favour, (having taken notice of his capacity, industry, eager desire of farther progresse in good literature, fitnesse of disposition to be wrought upon to that purpose, and by some buds sprouting out from such seeds thereof as had already been sown in him, conceiving good hopes of such future fruits, as did accordingly ensue) he was taken into the Free-School there; where he so profited, and made so successefull a proceed, that after a years continuance, being then about eighteen years of age, he was deemed sufficiently fitted and furnished for the University; and in the year 1589. was,His going to Cambridge. together with that worthy man of great renown, Joseph Hall, after Bishop of Exceter first, then of Norwich, and Hugh Cholmeley, (who had both been trained up in the same Schooll with him, and did continue also afterward a kinde affection to him, and friendly correspondence with him) he was admitted into Emanuel Colledge in Cambridge;Admitted into to Emanuel Colledge. where with them also he followed his studies under the tuition of that reverend Divine Master Gilbie, then Fellow of that Colledge; being there maintained, partly by the allowance of some Gentlemen his fellow-pupils under the same Tutor; and partly by some supplies afforded him from two noble Knights of the honourable house of the Hastings, Sir Edward and Sir Francis, (on the latter of whom his Father also had some dependence) upon the recommendation, and at the motion of that worthy servant of God, now with God, Master Arthur Hildersham, who was himself also allied to that Family. In the Colledge with these supports he continued, husbanding his time to the best advantage, with an abundant blessing of God upon his sedulous endeavoures,His diligence in his studies. to a clear evidence of large improvement, manifesting it self in such scholerly exercises, as his time and place there required (in the performance whereof speciall notice was taken of him, as an acute and eager disputant) untill he had taken both Degrees, first that of Batcheler, and after that of Master of Arts. But then, being not capable of a Fellowship in that Colledge, for that the Statutes of the House admitted not above one of the same Shire, and of that one for Leicester-shire Master Joseph Hall before-mentioned, being of the same time and standing with him, was already possessed; and having refused a Vicarage, endowed with some competent yearly revenue, by that Noble Knight Sir Edward Hastings one of his Patrons tendered him, not daring yet to adventure on a work of that nature; Master Laurence Chaderton then Master of the Colledge, and the first from the very foundation of it,Dr Chadertons care for him. bearing a singular affection to Master Bradshaw, as well for his parts of learning, as for his pious deportment, but being unable for the cause above-mentioned to bring him in there, cast about with himself, how to procure a place, and get some employment for him elsewhere.
Some years before, that right Honourable and thrice Noble Lady, Frances Sidney, Sidney Colledg built.Countesse of Sussex, had by her last Will and Testament given order for the erecting and endowing of a Colledge in Cambridge, to be furnished with a certain number of Fellows and Scholars under one Master or Head. The Colledge was now in building, by the provision of the Right Honourable the Earl of Kent, and Sir John Harrington, instructed by her for the performance of that work; and Master James Mountague Sonne to Sir Edward Mountague, then living as Fellow-Commoner, but Student in Divinity, among the Fellows of Christs Colledge, was designed for Master. With him dealt Master Chaderton in Master Bradshaws behalf; To have him set down for a Fellows place there: which through his Mediation was from those Noble Trustees without difficulty obtained. But because some space of time would runne out, ere the building of the Colledge could be consummated and made fit for receipt; it was thought good in the interim, to dispose of Mr. Bradshaw for some imployment elsewhere, untill he might be setled there. It fell out (God so disposing it) that Sir Thomas Leighton Governour of Guernsey, wanting one to be imployed about the instruction and education of his children, and having requested that worthy servant of Christ Master Cartwright, abiding then at Cornet-Castle with him, to write unto Master Chaderton, to furnish them with one fit for such a charge, this Letter of Master Cartwrights arrived with Master Chaderton in that juncture of time, wherein he and Master Montague had this businesse in agitation about Master Bradshaw: and the matter being by them broken to him, who referred himself wholly to what they should advise; it was joyntly agreed, that Master Bradshaw should be sent, or lent rather, unto them, to undertake that charge, and continue in the discharge of it, untill the Colledge building were compleated, wherein upon return thence he was then to reside.
Thither therefore long without delay, being furnished with Letters of recommendation from those here to them there, he addressed himself;His journey into Guernsey. and, through Gods goodnesse, arriving safe there, was with all kinde and courteous entertainment by them received. By this occasion he became throughly known to, and inwardly acquainted with Master Cartwright, who highly esteemed of him, renewed, or pursued rather his acquaintance with him, after both Master Bradshaws, Mr Cartwrights love to him.and his own return also into England, (as may appear by entercourse of Letters yet to be seen, written by him to Master Bradshaw, while he stayed behind him in Guernsey, and from Warwick also after his departure from thence) and to his dying day continued expressions of entire affection to him, and due respect of him, as also both before and after his decease, his Children, both Sonne and Daughters, and those that they were matched unto, rnd his Widow also, did. And indeed such was his demeanure, wheresoever he came, that he left behind him a gratefull memory of him, in the hearts and minds of all well affected, that had occasion to take notice of it; not unlike therein to musk or civet, that leave a sweet sent behind them, even for a long time after they be gone, in the boxes wherein they were formerly kept, the which continued after his departure thence, not among the French Ministers alone in that Island, but among such also of the old Garrison Souldiers, on whom Master Cartwrights Ministry had had some efficacious and gracious work; Who, as Sir Peter Osburn, who had afterward the government of that place, hath been heard to relate, would be oft talking of one Master Bradshaw, that had lived sometime there, and speak with much affection of him. But for his constant carriage during his abode there, his piety, industry, integrity, fidelity in discharge of the trust reposed in him, and charge committed to him,His carriage in his place. together with his course of life and conversation otherwise unreproveable; as also the love and affection to him, earnest desire, if it might have been, of his continuance with them, and loathnesse to leave him, with these, who were, after some time spent among them there, then to part with him; all these things will by no meanes better appear, then by the Letters of that sincere Servant of God, and constant Champion of Christ, Master Thomas Cartwright of holy memory, and the relations concerning him therein contained, being written and directed to divers in these parts, either neer upon, or at Master Bradshaws departure from thence.
Among others, in one to Sir Francis Hastings of September the fifth, 1598. wherein he assures him of his diligence in following his studies, His return to Cambridge. Mr Cartwrights commendation of him.and of his sharp and ready capacity, likely through Gods blessing to bring forth such fruit of learning, as he might have good cause to rejoyce over any cost that he had been at with him, or should farther bestow that way on him; as also, of his love to the best things, and his conversation in the Family without reproach, for ought he could learn, having had an eye constantly on him. In another to Master Chaderton of December the fifth, (the time, it seems of his departure thence) wherein he thankfully acknowledgeth the great benefit they had received by Master Bradshaw, procured by him to take so long and painfull a journey to them, and his wise and loving care in so good provision for them; returning thanks also to him, from Sir Thomas Leyghton the Governour, and his Honourable Lady for him; and withall requesting him, that they may once again taste of his accustomed love and care in that kind.
And in another yet more fully of the same date to Master Mountague in these words; The Law commandeth, that of things borrowed great care should be had for the well usage and due restoring of them. Both which we have endeavoured in Master Bradshaw: But the full performance must rest rather in yours and his acceptation, then in pay. For as touching the former of them, his desert of care to profit those committed to his charge, and his Behaviour otherwise in the house, hath been more then every one is able to esteem, and therefore in all respects not so fit to reward. For the other, (unless unwilling parting with him on all hands be against duty) you shall (we hope in the Lord) have him duly restored; Out of all doubt with all thankfulness to your Worship, by whose kindness, both we have enjoyed him some good time, sithence you of right might have taken him away, and he hath received a supply of recompence for that we were not able to make good unto him. And so with hearty thanks and commendations from the Governour and his Honourable Lady, and my humble thanks for your love, and this fruit I have received thereof by Master Bradshaw, I commend you to the gracious keeping and blessing of God in Jesus Christ. Unto this Letter Master Mountague now Master of the Colledge, upon Master Bradshaws access thither, returneth answer, both thanking him, for the remitting of him to them; (so that on no side thanks for him were wanting,His gracious deliverance in his return. so well was he esteemed of on either part) and withall advertising him of a very great danger, and no lesse deliverance, that neer unto his journeys end had betided him.
Whereunto Master Cartwright in a Letter of March 7. the same year thus replieth; Sir, It cometh from the abundance of your love, to thank me for that which duty it self required at my hands towards Master Bradshaw, and therefore the thanks are returned unto you, who esteem so highly of duty, as to let it go in the account of a Benefit or good turn. My hope is the same with yours, that the Lord, who by deliverance of him from so great a death, bindeth him to a straighter obedience, hath set such an impression of it in his mind, as will be in stead of a watch to waken him every morning to all cheerfull service, which his place will require. And indeed the Letter he wrote of that matter, carrieth that sound, and even undertakes so much in his behalf. And in one to Master Bradshaw himself, after receipt of that from him, touched upon in the close foregoing; That the Lord our most mercifull Father delivered you from so great a death, it pledges unto you deliverances hereafter, especially if they be inferiour to this. So much the rather, as the swimmer sunk like a piece of lead, and he that could no more swim then the Iron-head of the Scholars hatchet, was graciously born up: and therefore by how much the Proverb is true, foreign, by so much we have cause to praise God, that by the Angel of the waters saved you: And withall you may help to incourage others against the excessive fear of drowning in passing the Seas: Seeing it was more safe to you to passe the winter-Seas, even when they rage most, then the small brook of Hawston-Mills. I remembred you to Sir Thomas and my Lady; who told me that if any entertainment would have holden you, they would not have suffered you to have gone from them, and rejoyced much at your gracious escape. Subscribed, Your assured loving Brother and Fried, Thomas Cartwright.
The Escape in those Letters mentioned was this:Gods special Providence over him. Master Bradshaw being to leave Guernsey, shipped himself for England. Nor was his passage by Sea wholly free from hazard, for with so violent a storm were they surprized at Sea, that the Passengers most of them expected nothing but wrack, and a Gentlewoman among them, with another, whom she much affected attending upon her, did in a cord, by the waste fasten themselves either to other, that they might perish together, and draw their last breath, or breath it out rather, in the mutuall embraces either of other. But that storm being allaied, and the danger of it over, and the Ship with her Passengers now arrived in safety, Master Bradshaw having attained London, did there hire a Hackney, such as are commonly used on that Road, to convey him to Cambridge, there to enter upon the Fellowship prepared for him, and assigned unto him; by help of which Beast, he got so far on his way in safety, that he was now within three miles of his journeys end. But danger oft lieth in wait for us, where we least of all either expect or suspect it; and then many times overtakes, and surprizeth us unawares, when we deem our selves wholly past danger, and are neer approaching our intended, much desired, and now fully expected Port, and have alwaies need therefore both of an eye of Providence constantly on us, and of an hand of protection continually over us. For being there to passe a small Brook crossing the road near to a Village called Hawston, and the Water-mills seated on it, thence Hawston Mills; he that had escaped so eminent and apparent a danger at Sea, lighten on, and fell into that unexpectedly, that proved much more hazardous on land, where no appearance was of ought in that kind: for being unacquainted with the course of the stream, otherwise passed ordinarily, and that daily without danger, and having not fetched a compasse far enough, as he ought to have done, the Beast that bare him plunged suddainly into the Mill-pond, or pit; and being not able to recover it self, therein perished, and there left him floating in a strong vertiginous current, unskilfull in swimming, (nor had any such skill in likelihood been available in such a case to have saved him) and altogether unable to shift for himself; where he must of necessity have gone the same way with the Beast, had not either some one occasionally looking out of the Mill,A Miracle of mercy. or some Passenger on the way, espying one floating in that manner, and at the very pinch of perishing, called hastily on the Miller, or those next at hand to let slip down the Flood-gates; by means whereof the stiffe current of the water-course was stayed, and this Servant of God, though not without much difficulty, rescued out of the water, and delivered unexpectedly out of that his, in a manner, even desperate distresse.
And it may indeed justly be deemed a wonder of wonders, (in regard whereof that venerable Minister of Christ before-mentioned, seems to have apprehended the ministry of an Angel used in it) that he was not suddainly in an instant, either swallowed up in that whirling gulf, or hurried away with the violent course of the current, and that he should bear up and keep above water, so long in a place of that nature. For he hath been heard to relate, that while he continued thus floating and strugling with that wheeling surface, it troubled him not a little, that he could not addresse himself as he desired to prepare for his departure, though having nothing but death in his eye, while his ear was taken up with the voice of some talking in the Mill, from whom he supposed yet some help might come, though neither was he able to call unto them, nor they to hear him.
Thus even Gods Children themselves find a defect oft in themselves, that they cannot with such an exact composure of spirit, in times of distress address themselves unto God, untill he have pulled away all outward prosperity, as well hopes, as helps from them. But being by a special Providence of God thus recovered, and as another Moses drawn out of the water, and brought into the Millers house, he was there shifted, and put into such dry apparell, as the Miller himself used to wear; in which garb when some of his acquaintance found him, who upon tydings of of this occurrent, came posting over to him from Cambridge, they could not forbear smiling to see him sitting in that habit, though not a little affected with the casualty occasioning it, and no lesse heartily gladned for the gracious issue that God hath pleased to afford it, and expressing much thankfulnesse for his mercy and goodnesse therein manifested. The Lord it may seem would hereby fit this his servant reserved to other hot and hazardous services, unto a farther and firmer dependance in and under them upon him.
But thus his Horse lost, (which to the Carrier its owner, as by his default mis-carrying, requiring it, was made good) being after his escape and recovery somewhat revived and refreshed, and fitted again with a wonted Suit, he was with some of those his acquaintance accompanied to Cambridge, and repaired to the Colledge; where having presented himself to the Master, he was entertained in the Chamber of one of the Fellows, that assigned him, being not yet fit to receive him, (as indeed they came all to very raw Chambers at first) and the use of that offered him, untill his own could be fitted and furnished for him:He is admitte-Fellow in Sidney Colledge. which being his first entertainment there, albeit but a sorry courtesie to speak of, yet did so affect him, as upon occasion, to some of his familiar friends he afterward professed, (of so ingenuous and gratefull a disposition he was, and so prone with thankfulnesse to acknowledge,His Gratitude. and to set an high rate on the least kindnesse shewed him, or meanest office done for him) that it laid the ground-work, or first stone thereof at least with him, for such an Union of inward and entire affection, and well fastned knot of unreserved familiarity and strictest friendship, as did afterward ensue between them two, and so continued, not only while they abode in the Colledge together, by a mutual communication of their studies, counsels, courses and purposes either to other; but even after also, when through distance of abode they were severed the one from the other, by a constant course of vicissitudinary writing, therein advising either with other, and discussing mutually such questions and doubts, wherewith either of them were occasionally encountred; by meanes whereof they received much help and light either from other; and albeit in some particulars either not so clear, or not so cleared to their joynt apprehensions, their judgment might, and did sometime differ, (which having on occasion professed to a Friend, desiring to know their joynt judgment in a case then questioned, and seeming to marvell that they two should be of divers minds in ought, he made answer, that it was no wonder at all, it might rather be wondred, considering mans condition in intellectuals, so impaired and clouded, that any two seriously set upon the search of truth, should not in many particular cases dissent; yea that if in every particularity they should wholly concurre, it might seem to savour rather of a cunningly contrived compact or conspiracy, then a reall and rational consent) yet where by force of argument they seemed convict, or any mistake manifested, they were ready to yeeld, and did indeed in not a few things, come home either to other,His humility. unto their mutual much advantage; nor did their remaining differences ever produce any breach, or abatement of affection between them, but that the knot once knit, from the first to the last, continued firm and inviolate, never loosed nor slackned, so long as God was pleased to lengthen out the line of his life.His inviolable friendship.
In the Colledge he so demeaned himself, that though the Fellows were not all of one mind, or one way, and there were among them (as usually in Societies of that nature) men of divers dispositions, and sub-divisions consequently of companies, consisting of such as more familiarly consorted, and more inwardly conversed with some few, whom selected from the rest they most affected; yet so loving and lowly, yeelding to all, and complying with all, was his carriage, that notwithstanding he were by some deemed over-strict, and would freely as occasion was, speak his mind, and deliver his judgment, yet he retained ever the, professed at least good liking,His prudent and winning carriage. and external kind usage from them all: Where it will not be amisse to relate a speech of one of them, (a man by occasion of some discontents strongly and strangely possessed with a spirit of jealousie and suspitiousness of every one, even his inwardest and entirest friends, which in the end proved his overthrow) who having entertained a conceit, that something spoken by Master Bradshaw in a dispute should have a glance closely at somewhat that concerned him, and having discovered that his suspition to a common bosome-friend of them both, (by whom also upon disclose of that groundless conceit, he was evidently convinced of his errour therein) he used these words of him, Although I am sure, he had a gird at me, yet the man is of so kind and loving a disposition, that I could not be angry with him, though be had broken my head. But I cannot let passe one remarkable Instance that may evidently manifest in him a due temper (which is not over-frequently found) of freedome of spirit, and discreet demeanure, wisely mixed, and well consistent the one with the other.
During his abode in Guernsey, a Question was on foot, among Divines of special note, on either side yet in debate, concerning the lawfulness of some pecuniary contracts, wherein Master Cartwright having by writing declared his mind, in way of answer to some arguments objected against it: Master Bradshaw being required by him freely to discover his judgment therein, and seriously to consider of that his answer, albeit of himself he would not have adventured to undertake such a task; yet being so put upon it, he did it freely and largely, with as much strength of wit and argument,His Prudence. (it may not without ground be deemed) as any have done, that have hitherto dealt on that subject; and yet so discreetly and respectively managing the business, that though being then of a contrary judgment, he used his best forces and strongest endeavoures to shake and shatter Master Cartwrights grounds, yet did it not breed any breach between them, nor did it (that could be discerned) lessen Master Cartwrights either affection to him, or esteem of him; which from time to time, as occasion was, and as in part hath already been shewed, he was ever ready to expresse. Howbeit it must withall for a truth be ackowledged, that Master Bradshaw, howsoever in the Colledge performing a Divinity-Problem, His self-denialas they term it, did still stiffely maintain that his former Tenet; yet upon farther consideration in his latter dayes, he is known to have altered his judgment therein.
While he stayed in the Colledge, that he might with the more freedome employ that talent that the Lord had committed unto him, he entred into the Ministry;He enters into the Ministry. the rather advised (as some other also were) so to do, while admission was yet more easie, and the way of entrance lesse obstructed, in regard of some things, which out of diversity of judgment, and tenderness of conscience he stuck at; then was by prudent men, observing how State-businesses began to be carried, deemed like to last long. And at the motion of one Master Pigot, a religious Gentleman residing at Abington about eight miles from Cambridge, His imployment at Abington.he rode weekly over thither, there to preach every Lords Day for some good space of time; joyning also in a weekly Lecture, as he had opportunity, with some other neighbour Ministers, at a greater Town called Bassingborn not farre thence distant. Afterward he was drawn over to Steeple-Morden in the same shire, by one Master Martin, And at Steeple-Morden.an ingenuous Gentleman, who enjoying the appropriation, entertained him as a Lecturer, in regard of the infirmity of the party that was possessed of the Vicarage.
But while he was thus taken up with employments abroad, there arose a storm against him at home, and that upon this occasion. About that time two Leicestershire Ministers of his acquaintance,The occasion of his first trouble. Master Darrel and Master Moor, being questioned about the dispossession of William Somers and Thomas Darling, (besides some others) supposed to be by evil spirits possessed, the one of them, to wit, Darling stood stiffely in avowing the truth of the thing, and refused to acknowledge any deceit or collusion therein; yea though many slights were used to enduce him thereunto, and Letters forged and tendered to him in Master Darrels name, as beginning to grow somewhat suspitious of the businesse, yet nothing could prevail with him; but the other, to wit, Somers, The Bishops subtlle practices.being in like manner dealt with, and enticed by large Promises of such provision to be made for him, that he should be sure not to want, nor should need to go down into his own Countrey again, was perswaded to accuse Master Darrell to have set him on work, and taught him how to act sundry strange feats and gestures, whereby he might be deemed to be a Demoniak. Whereupon some of the Bishops, London specially, in whose house the boyes had been kept apart, eagerly pursuing the business, the two Ministers were cited into the High Commission Court, and there being charged with imposture, were suspended and imprisoned untill further cognizance, and Master Harsnet [Londons Chaplain] mean while set on work to pen and publish a virulent Pamphlet against Master Darrell, traducing him therein as a Grand Impostour and Jugler, and the whole action about the possession and dispossession of William Somers, as a meer Puppet-play. Hence Master Darrell thus traduced, was enforced to write and publish something for the defence of himself, and clearing of his guiltlesness herein; and so did first in a briefer Narrative concerning the manner of their proceedings with him, entituled his Triall; and afterward in a larger Answer to Harsnet, in way of farther Apology for himself. Of these Books some Copies being sent down to Cambridge, were directed to Master Bradshaw, and a parcell of them by him delivered to one Underwood a Taylor, who dispersed of them as well in the Colledges as in the Town. Intimation hereof being given to Bishop Bancroft at London, that such Books were in divers hands at Cambridge, he writes to the Vicechancellor to make diligent enquiry after the dispersers of them. He lights on Underwood, whom upon examination, confessing that he had received a certain number of them from Master Bradshaw, he bindeth in a bond to appear upon warning before the High Commission, and chargeth him withall not to give notice of ought to Master Bradshaw.
The next morning by seven of the clock Letters came from the Vicechancellor to the Master of the Colledge, requiring him at eight of the clock to repair unto him, and to bring Master Bradshaw with him. About the same time that these Letters came to the Master, an unknown Scholar repairing to Master Bradshaws Chamber, telleth him, that Underwood was in trouble, and he should do well to look to himself. Master Bradshaw upon these tydings thus brought him, went presently to Master Wright the Senior Fellow of the house,A special Providence. to ask advice of him what to do in this case: he wished him to withdraw himself, and withall, directed him to Gransden, a Town about nine miles distant from Cambridge, as a fit place of retire, where one Master Castle a Gentleman well-affected, and Master Wrights Brother-in-law, he well knew, would be right-willing to receive him. But Master Bradshaw resolved first to have an assay made by some other, whereby it might be discovered, what the Masters mind herein was. Hereupon Master Ward was sent for, who being requested to break the matter to the Master, was right-willing and ready to undertake that Office. The Master mean while upon receit of the Vicechancellours Letter, had sent his man presently to enquire for Master Bradshaw at Master Gatakers Chamber, which in his absence then discontinuing he had the charge of, and kept most in, being more convenient then his own; he not finding him there, was returned back, just as Master Ward came in to the Master: Who upon his repair to him, having but named Master Bradshaw, the Master, before he could deliver any part of his errand, demandeth of him where Master Bradshaw was, and saith he must speak with him. Master Ward told him, It was not safe for Master Bradshaw to come to him, because he was in danger of the Vicechancellour. The Master replied, That therefore he must come; for that he had Letters from the Vicechancellour to bring him presently to him. Which Letters while he stept into his closet to fetch, that he might shew them to him, Master Ward a fast and true-hearted friend, more carefull of Master Bradshaws safety, then fearfull of the Masters displeasure, and his own danger, stayed not the Masters return, but slipt away with all speed to acquaint Master Bradshaw how things stood. The Master at hs return missing Master Ward, was exceedingly enraged against him, and threatned to punish him, by setting a deep fine for example upon him. But the hour being now elapsed, which the Vicechancellour had set, the Master wrote back to him, that Master Bradshaw could not as yet be found. Master Bradshaw hereof advertised, albeit that all his friends there, were earnest with him to withdraw, yet for the present refused, and requested Master Wright to repair to the Master, that by him he might understand from him, what his resolute will was, which he purposed not to withstand. Master Wright, according to his request, repairing to the Master, found him in much heat: no nay he would have, but Master Bradshaw must needs go; it would else endanger him, and endanger the Colledge, &c. Master Bradshaw enformed hereof by Master Wright, not at all fearing to suffer in a good and just cause, as he deemed it to be, and no less loath to have any other endamaged, or endangered for him, (notwithstanding that his friends were all utterly against it) without farther dispute or delay, went presently to the Master, and presented himself to him; who entertaining him with hot and high terms, the good man answered him in a calm and meek manner, that he had no cause to be so much offended with him, His courage.or incensed against him; he knew not of any such Commission that he had, when he sent at first to him; but sent only to him for counsell in that case, deeming it better for him to do it by some other rather then by himself; and being loath to come into trouble in those turbulent times: (for the Earl of Essex his business was then on foot) and that so soon as he understood his pleasure, he readily condescended thereunto. The Master thereupon charged him by the authority of his place, to bring him all Master Darrels Books, that he had in his hands, and to go presently with him unto the Vicechancellour; which without farther reply he yeelded unto. But while he was gone to fetch the Books, the Vicechancellour sent his servant to the Master, desiring him to come to himself; and the Master, his man to Master Bradshaw, charging him to stay within untill he returned. At his return Master Bradshaw of his own accord repaired to him; who then charged him, at twelve of the clock to repair to his Chamber, that he might take his Answer, and a Bond for his forth-coming. But Doctor Barwell Master of Christs Colledge in the mean space coming to him, (whether about that business or upon some other occasion, uncertain) by his advice (it seems) the Master altered his mind; and in likelihood the rather, after much mutual consultation, and better consideration past between them, because both the Masters had themselves bought of the Books: for he sends for Master Wright, and now tells him, that it would be the best course for Master Bradshaw to go out of the way: which accordingly he did.He withdraws from the Colledge. The Bishop of London not long after wrote again to the Vicechancellour to imprison Underwood, and to make farther enquiry after Master Bradshaw, concerning whom the Master being by the Vicechancellour demanded; made answer, that he was not in the Colledge: whereunto he replied, that it was best so for him, not willing (as may be deemed) to be used as an instrument in molesting him, if it might be avoided. The carriage of this business, together with the several overtures and circumstances of it, is out of a Narrative of his own, the more particularly related, to shew both the discreet and modest, and yet ingenuous and couragious disposition of this Servant of God; and the remarkeable passages of Gods Providence in a concurrence of occurents so unexpectedly managed, that he should thereby be kept out of the clutches of those that were so exceeding thirsty to seize on him, and so fiercely bent against him.
Master Bradshaw being thereof informed by some Friends, and considering how the Bishop persisted in enquiry after him, conceived that Cambridge for the present could be no safe or quiet place for him: and having therefore withdrawn himself, though retaining his place still there, he spent his time for the space of some moneths, partly with Master Pigot at Abington, and partly at Morden with Master Martine, in which places he had formerly exercised his Ministry, and as occasion required, so still did. Thus there hovering, in a Letter to a speciall Friend, whose good opinion of him he much valued, he thus writes; I fear it will be somewhat offensive unto you, His Letter to a Friend about it.and that you will condemn me for being too rash and indiscreet in this matter. But I trust you will consider that the thing I have done, was to pleasure most good and Christian Friends; that the cause, it is the cause of God, and the glory of God hath been much increased by it, by reason of the truth of God shining therein; unto which I could not perform a less duty; there being nothing in the Books (as I am perswaded) against the State; howsoever there are many hot words, that might have been spared, though none that have not been deserved. I wish they had past my poor censure before the coming forth of them, they should not then have given so much advantage to the enemies of the truth. I will (God willing) flie the danger as much as I can, especially in these troublesome and tragicall times, which seem of purpose to be chosen, that they might do the more injury, and the speech may be the less. And in another to the same party; My danger for Master Darrel troubleth me not a whit, I thank God; neither do I repent of any thing I have therein done, so long as you think never the worse of me: other matters trouble my mind more, yet such is the goodness of God, that though they distract my mind from other studies needfull for me to wade into, yet when I come to exercise my poor Ministry, and to study for my Sermons, my mind is free enough. Thus is the Lord wont in more special manner to support the spirits of his servants, for such particular imployments, as he hath more specially assigned them unto.
The matter that more troubled him, was concerning his entrance into any setled place for the exercise of his Ministry, which he supposed would be, and upon some triall indeed found, every way so obstructed, that, albeit places of imployment enough were offered, and his imployment in them much desired, yet he could not conceive how it might be cleared in regard of the tenderness of his conscience, and scruple of some things that he stuck at, which were like to be tendred unto him, and pressed upon him, before admission thereunto; and that the rather in probability in regard of the prejudice now had of him for the business concerning those Books. For he had been offered the Rectory of Abington by Master Pigot the Patron, who would have compounded with the present Incumbent for the bringing of him in: And Master Wendy likewise, a Religious Gentleman in those parts, had, together with some others, been endeavouring to bring him in at Basingborn: but neither of them took effect. He was invited also to New-Castle in Staffordshire, whither also he repaired, but found not matters to his liking there: and after unto Yarmouth, to be Lecturer with them, with assurance of a liberall maintenance from them; for they very much affected him. But that their design was crossed by the Bishop of the Diocesse, having a jealous eye as well on them as on him, and being desirous to prefer and place a Chaplain of his own therefore there. To the Colledge he returned again after some time spent abroad,His return to the Colledge. the storm seeming now to be over-blown, and howsoever there he met with no renewed molestation about the fore-mentioned business, yet had he no heart at all there to continue; partly in regard of the departure thence of a special friend, whom he intirely affected, of whose return thither, being now elsewhere setled, he was wholly out of hope; and partly because he perceived, that the Master did not then so affect him, as formerly he had done.
Amidst these distractions, a Preachers place falling vacant at Chatham in Kent, where a great part of the Navy Royal, and Officers of the same attending, did usually reside; the business of supplying them with an able and faithfull Teacher was by general consent referred to Master Chaderton, being at that time in Kent not far from thence, thither drawn over from Cambridge, about the consummating of a marriage between that reverend man of God Master Josias Nicols, who had passed many sharp bickerings and brunts in those times, and the relict of that famous worthy Doctor Whitaker deceased. He commended Master Bradshaw to them. Concerning whom the piously affected party, after diligent inquiry, received such ample testimony, that (whereas divers other made first for the place, and by their labouring with some friends had wrought a siding among them, to prevent such obstructions as thence might arise) they sent an express to Cambridge on purpose with instructions, in the first place to Master Chaderton, to entreat him, that he would not any wise give consent to have any other designed to the place, but him only whom he had already propounded: for that they rested in his choice; and longed much to see and hear him. And in the next place to Master Bradshaw, to request him, that he would make no doubt or delay of coming to them; wherein he would not be slack, if they knew how earnestly they longed to see and enjoy him; and withall to signifie to him, what had been delivered to Master Chaderton from them; He is sent for to Chatham.that they desired only the sincere milk of Gods Word, and a Pastor bearing a sincere affection and tender heart to his people: that they had wrought great meanes to obtain him; that if he refused to come to them, he did not know what he did; and if he came, and found them not worthy of him, yet his labour and charge should be fully made good. Thus being importuned, (as by his own Letter to a Friend of July the eighth 1601. appeareth) though by some still pressed for Abington, with hopes suggested of clearing the way there for him; he came up to London, and after advice had with some Friends in the City, from thence went down to Chatham. He goes to Chatham.And though it go for a common buy-word, oft verified, that personal presence abateth much of foregoing reports, and great expectations preconceived are wont seldome to receive full satisfaction; and it be true, that Master Bradshaw was not a man of much out side, nor forward to put out himself, of a very bashfull and demiss, but not fawning deportment; insomuch that his bodily and personal presence might (as the Apostles sometime,) seem weak, and not to promise much, with such especially, as look no further then the face: Yet when he came and was heard, and his meek and discreet carriage by the generality observed, by the wiser sort well weighed, he was by joynt consent agreed upon; and a solemn Letter of invitation appointed to be drawn up by Master John Cook, sometime Fellow of Trinity Colledge, then enjoying an Office under Sir Fulk Grinvel Treasurer to the Navy, and afterward Secretary of State to King James, subscribed by the Officers there belonging to the Navy, and the most of any note and repute in the place; intimating their election of him by joynt consent to the place, professing a willingness to submit themselves to his Ministry, and promising to afford him all due support and assistance in the same. Upon the receit hereof he fully now resolved without farther delay, to entertain the call, and accept of the place; and having signified so much unto them, was very lovingly received by them, and quietly for some good space of time (to wit,His faithfulness in his place. from July 1601. unto April 1602.) laboured in the Word and Doctrine among them, (together with Master John Philips, who enjoying the Vicarage did as Pastor of the place therein joyn with him) with good success and much comfort, and to the great contentment and gladsomness of people well affected in those parts. Being thus then setled there,A motion of marriage made to him. with good hope of continuance, motion was made to him by some of his Friends there (supposing that might be some means of farther engagement of him for to stay with them, of a match with a Widow an houswifely Woman, and one that had lived alwaies in good repute with them. Which not fore-seeing in likelihood, what would afterward ensue, he did not unwillingly so farre forth hearken unto, as to entertain some good liking of the Woman; howsoever in regard of the ensuing change of things, the business was no farther then proceeded in, but by mutual agreement between them laid aside, and delayed, untill God should see good to make way by some means, for their more convenient coming together, and comfortable cohabitation of either with other.
For those Halcyon seasons lasted not long; the common adversary of God and man, who out of his inveterate envy and enmity can in no wise brook the propagation of the Gospel, and dilatation of Christs curtains, began at first more covertly and under hand to contrive some course, whereby to cast a rub in his way, and to procure a restraint of his farther proceeding in a course so successefull and advantagious for the glory of God and the good of his people. For about the time above-mentioned,Satans malice against the progresse of the Gospel. some neighbour-Ministers, envying the recourse of people to his teaching, began secretly to plot against him, though they would not be seen in it; by suggesting to the Bishop of the Diocess, that he was a man not conformable to the Rites of the Church, He is accused to the Bishop.nor well-affected to the present Government. This how far forth it prevailed with the Bishop that then sate there, doth not appear; but the business being smelt out, and by some means discovered, to prevent trouble from him, and settle Master Bradshaw (as they supposed) more surely in the place, it was by divers of his people and friends there deemed most expedient, (though therein peradventure much mistaken) to have some means used to obtain a Confirmation of him therein from the Archbishop of Canterbury, unto whom Rochester was as Suffragan, and no man being deemed fitter to deal in this business with the Archbishop then that Noble and Religious Knight Sir Francis Hastings, he was by a Letter from Master Bradshaw requested to make some tryal of his interest in, and power with Archbishop Whitgift, to that purpose in his behalf. He upon the receit of Master Bradshaws Letter, the very same day, April 22. 1602. returned him this most kind Christian, and affectionate Answer, My love to your self you know, and shall ever know it in any thing, wherein I can make it known: my duty, your duty, and all our duties to God, his Church, you know better then my self; and my duty to further a good people to a good Minister, a longing people to hear, to a a labouring speaking Minister to teach them, is a bond of duty that I may never forget, and a work of duty that I must ever be ready to perform. Assure your self therefore, my velle shall not be slack; and if my posse can prevail, I shall be glad, I will say no more: but pray to my God to encrease his graces in you, to teach profitably; to encrease grace in your people, to hear diligently; and to multiply his graces both in speaker and hearer, that they may speak and hear fruitfully, &c. Subscribed, Your true Christian Friend, Francis Hastings. Nor was he more ready to promise, then forward to perform. For within three daies after, to wit, April 25. he wrote to the Archbishop this modest, pious, and zealous Letter: May it please your grace to pardon me, Sir Francis Hastings his Letter to the Archbishop in his behalf.that I do not personally attend you, but presume to write:—I make bold to become suitor to your grace, for your favour to a young man, being one that I hold my self interessed in, and to whom I owe my best help, to further him to some place of employment and maintenance, which causeth me to become an humble suitor for him to you, not without a special regard to that people, who so Christianly thirst after knowledge and instruction. The man for whom I sue is one Master Bradshaw, a Master of Arts of Sidney Colledge in Cambridge: The matter I sue for, your graces favour and allowance that he may preach: the place where his labours are desired, is at Chatham. And I most humbly beseech your grace, that however you may find or bear, that he is fearfull to do some things that may be urged on him; yet seeing he is well qualified with gifts, and of honest carriage sitting for his calling, let not his fearfulness prejudice him with your Lordship, but vouchsafe him liberty to bestow his talent; and I will undertake to your grace for him, that he shall not offer any disturbance to the peace of our Church either in word or action; but shall painfully bestow himself in that place, to preach Christ crucified, and to arm his people with some measure of knowledge, to stand Christianly and couragiously for the truth of Christ, and to resist all Errours broached against that holy Doctrine. And the rather I make hold to tender this suit to your grace for him, because I find plenty of practising by Seminaries and Jesuites to corrupt and pervert the peoples hearts both in knowledge and obedience; and that through penury of preaching in some places it may prove dangerous. I never heard the young man preach my self, but I hear his gifts greatly commended; and I know him to be learned, and painfull also, and carefull in that he taketh in hand. And though I know the tendernesse of his Conscience some waies, yet I dare engage my credit again, (as before) to your grace for him, that he shall walk dutifully, wisely and discreetly in the whole course of his preaching, without all offer of disturbance to the peace of the Church. And so longing to hear that my suit may find my desired success with your grace, I commend mine humble duty to you, and commit your grace, and all your godly proceedings to the protection and directian of the Lord Almighty. Subscribed, Your graces most bounden, and ready to be commanded, Francis Hastings. What Answer the Noble Knight had from the Arch-bishop, or what effect this his Letter had with him, we cannot certainly say; but by what followed it may well be deemed, that of the Archbishop it was not very well relished; who in cases of this kind, was seldome wont to do ought without the advice of Bancroft, another Bonner, Bishop Bancrofts malice.as well in regard of place, as of disposition and practice, in eager pusuit of many of Gods faithfull Ministers in those times, so far as the power of his place would permit, in whose stomack the memory of Master Darrels business stuck still, and of Master Bradshaws act about his Books. For not without some animation in likelihood from above, those Master Bradshaws back-friends, who had before dealt in the dark, did shortly after begin to disclose themselves, and to manifest their malice, which had formerly lain hid, as embers raked up in the ashes.Master Bearblocks malice against him. The first of them that openly appeared in the business, was one Master Bearblock Minister at Strowd, a Town or Village adjoyning to Rochester, a man of very mean parts for learning, and of a very scandalous life; but one of those whom the Prophet Jeremy speaketh of, that had a singular faculty of slicking and smoothing his tongue, to sooth men up in their sinnes. This man (among other) vexed at the concourse of people that repaired from the places adjacent to Master Bradshaws teaching, (although Master Bradshaw desirous to comply, so far forth as without offence he might, with him) used to frequent his week-dayes Lecture;He is charged with Heresie. stuck not both in private meetings to tax Master Bradshaw for delivering heretical Doctrine, and publikely also in a Sermon on the Lords Day so to charge him therewith, that the Auditory, though he named him not, might well know whom he meant. Now albeit the man himself were of no esteem, and his censure consequently little to be regarded, yet Mr. Bradshaw deemeed, that a publick charge of that nature, should not be let pass with silence. Howbeit, not willing, nor esteeming it meet to pester the Pulpit with Apologies, he chose rather to deal with this his Opponent and Traducer by a Letter, which it will not be amiss here to insert.