The History of the Worthies of England, Part 2 · County 28

The History of the Worthies of England · Part 2 · County 28

p. 246NOR FOLK hath the German Ocean on the North and East thereof, Suffolk severed by the river Waveny on the South-side, Cambridge-shire parted by the river Ouse, and a small part of Lincoln shire on the West; it extendeth full 50. miles from East to West, but from North to South stretcheth not above thirty miles.

All England may be carved out of Norfolk, represented therein, not onelyonly to the kind but degree thereof. Here are Fens and Heaths, and Light and Deep, and Sand and Clay-ground, and Meddows and Pasture, and Arable and Woody, and [generally] woodless land, so gratefull is this Shire with the variety thereof. Thus, as in many men, though perchance this or that part may justly be cavelled at, yet all put together, complete a proper person: so Norfolk collectively taken hath a sufficient result of pleasure and profit, that being supplied in one part which is defective in another.

This County hath the most Churches of any in England, (six hundred and sixty,) and, though the poorest Livings, yet (by some occult quallity of their good husbandry, and Gods blessing thereon,) the richest Clergy-men. Nor can there be given a greater demonstration of the wealth and populousness of this County, than, that in the late Act for an Assessment upon England, at the rate of sixty thousand pounds by the Month, for three Months, Norfolk with the City of Norwich, is rated at three thousand two hundred sixty six pounds, thirteen shillings, and four pence, the highest proportion of any Shire in England. And, though Norfolk hath little cause to please and less to pride it self in so dear purchased pre-eminence, yet it cannot but account it a credit, to see it self not undervalued.

Natural Commodities.

It shareth plentifully in all English Commodities, and aboundeth with the best and most.

Rabbits.

These are an Army of natural Pioners, whence men have learned cuniculos agere, the Art of undermining. They thrive best on barren ground, and grow fattest in the hardest frosts. Their flesh is fine and wholesome. If Scotish-men tax our language as improper, and smile at our wing of a Rabbit, let us laugh at their shoulder of a Capon.

Their skins were formerly much used, when furs were in fashion, till of late our Citizens, of Romans are turned Grecians, have laid down their grave gowns, and took up their light cloaks; men generally disliking all habits, though emblemes of honour, if also badges of age.

Their rich or silver-hair-skins, formerly so dear, are now levelled in prices with other colours, yea, are lower then black in estimation, because their wool is most used in making of hats, commonly (for the more credit) called Half-Beavers, though many of them hardly amount to the proportion of Semi-Demi-Castors.

Herrings.

Great store and very good of these are caught nigh Yarmouth, where once every year on the Feast of Saint Michael, is a Fair held for the sale of fish, and such the plenty of Herrings there constantly vented, that incredible the sum which is raised thereby. Indeed, the fishing for Herrings is a most gainful trade, fish though contemptable in it self, considerable in its company, swiming in such shoals, that what the Whale hath in bigness the Herring hath in number. (It may well mind such who excell in strength and valour, not to boast or be proud thereof, seeing the greatest courage may be soon pressed to death under unequal number.) Yea, Red-herrings in England mostly eaten for sauce to quicken the Appetite, serve in Holland and elsewhere for food to satisfy hunger.

p. 247I will conclude the Natural Commodities of this County, with this memorable passage, which I have read in a modern**Hartlibs Legacy p. 97. Author;

The Lord F. W. assured me of a Gentleman in Norfolk, that made above 10000l. sterl. of a piece of ground not forty yards square, and yet there was neither Mineral nor Metal in it. He a…ter told me, it was onelyonly a sort of fine clay, for the making a choise sort of earthen ware; which some that knew it, seeing him dig up, discovered the value of it, and sending it into Holland, received so much money for it.

My belief tireth in coming up to the top of this story, suspecting the addition of a cypher. But if it were so, how much would it have inriched us, if those mockChina-dishes had been made in England.

Manufactures,

Worsteds.

These first took their name from**Camd. Brit. in this County. Worsted a Village in this County, originally it is nothing but Woollen-thred spun very fine, and for the more strength twisted together: But O! it surpassesh my skill to name the several stuffs (being VVorsted disguised with VVeaving and Colouring) made thereof.

It argueth the usefulness and publick profit of this commodity, (which first found a general repute in England toward the end of the raign of King Henry the sixth) that there are no fewer then fourteen Statutes now in force in the well ordering thereof to Merchantable proof; And appointing which of them may, which may not be Transported. Not to speak of four VVardens **Statutes 7. Edward 4. c. 3.of VVorsted VVeavers to be chosen yearly within the City of Norwish, and other four out of the County of Northfolk, with their solemn Oath, Office and Authority.

As for worsted Stockins they were first made in England Anno 1564. by**St…w's Chro. p. 869. VVilliam Rider an ingenious Apprentice living against Saint Magnus Church at the foot of London Bridge: This William chancing to see a pair of knit worsted Stockins in the Lodging of an Italian Merchant, who had brought them from Man…ua, borrowed them, and making the like by that pattern, presented them to VVilliam Earl of Pembroke who first wore them in England.

Proverbs.

Norfolk dumplings.]

This cannot be verified of any dwarfish, or diminutive stature of people in this County, being as tall of their bodies, and as tall of their arms too, I assure you, as any in England. But it relates to the fare they commonly feed on, so generally called. I wish, much good may it do them, and that their bodies thereby may be enabled for all natural, civil and spiritual performances.

Norfolk VViles.]

Such the skill of the common people hereof in our Common-Law, wherein they are so versed, ut si nihil sit **Cam. Brit. in Norfolk.litium, lites tamen ex juris apicibus serere callent. If I must go to Law, I wish them rather of my Counsel then my Adversaries. For whereas pedibus ambulando is accounted but a vexatious Suit in other Counties, here (where men are said to study Law as following the Plough tail) some would perswade us, that they will enter an action for their neighbours horse but looking over their hedge. Now, although we listen to this but as a jeer, yet give me leave to observe two parts in VViles.

Sure I am, that in**Num. 25. 18. Ephes. 6. 11. Josh. 9. 4.Num 25:18Eph 6:11Josh 9:4 Scripture a VVile always male audit, is taken in an evil sense, as wherein the simplicity of the Dove is stung to death by the subtilty of the Serpent. But p. 238no more hereof least Norfolk-men commence a Suit against me, though I verily believe many therein are of as peaceable dispositions as any in other places.

A Yarmouth Capon.]

That is a red-herring. No news for creatures to be thus disguised under other names, seeing Criticks by a Libyon bear, sub pelle Libystidis ursae, understand a Lion, no Bears being found in the land of Libya. And I believe few capons (save what have more fins then feathers) are bred in Yarmouth. But to countenance this expression, I understand that the Italian Friers (when disposed to eat flesh on Fridays) call a Capon, piscem è corte, a fish out of the Coop.

He is arrested by the Baily of Marshland.]

The aire of Marshland in this County is none of the wholesomest, being surrounded with the Sea and Fens on all sides. Hence it is that strangers coming hither, are clapt on the back with an ague, which sometimes lasts them longer then a Stuffe Suit. The best is when such prisoners have paid the Bailiffs Fees and Garnish, and with time and patience have weathered out the brunt of that disease, they become habited to the aire of the Country, and arrive in health at a very great age.

Princes.

I meet with no Prince since the Conquest taking his first breath in this County, probably, because so remote from the principal place of Royal Residence.

Prelats.

GILBERT BERKELEY was **Godwin in his Catalogue of the Bishops of Norwich.born in this County, but descended from the ancient Barons of that name, as appeareth by his Armes. He was consecrated Bishop of Bath and Wells in the first of Queen Elizabeth, and sate therein 22. years. He died of a Lethargy being 80. years of age 1581. and is buried on the North-side of the Communion-table of his own Cathedral.

JOHN AYLMER Brother to Sir Robert Aylmer Knight, was born, at Aylmerhall in the Parish of Tilsely in this County, as his nearest surviving relations have informed me, from whom I have received the following information.

When he was but a Child going toward school, Henry Gray Duke of Suffolk having some discourse with, took so much liking unto him, that after he had been bred some years in the University of Cambridge, he made him his Chaplain, and committed his daughter the Lady Jane Gray to his tuition.

In the reign of Queen Mary he fled over beyond Sea, and was little less then miraculously saved from the Searchers of the Ship, by the ingenuity of a Marchant who put him into a great Wine-but which had a partition in the middle, so that Master Aylmer sate in the hind part, whilst the Searchers drank of the Wine which they saw drawn out of the head or other end thereof.

Returning into England he was made Arch-Deacon of Lincoln, and at last Bishop of London. He was happy in a meet Yoke-fellow, having a gratious Matron to his wife, by whom he had many children, and one son to which Arch-bishop Whitgift was Godfather, and named him Tob-el, that is, The Lord is good, in memorial of a great deliverance bestowed on this childs mother. For when she was cast out of her Coach in London, (by a Mastiff casually seising upon the Horses) she received no harm at all, though very near to the time of her Travail.

Bishop Aylmer was well learned in the Languages, a ready Disputant, and deep Divine. He was eighteen years Bishop of London, and dying Anno 1594. in the 73. year of his age, had this for part of his Epitaph, which Bishop Vaugham (sometimes his Chaplain, afterwards his Successor) made upon him.

Ter senos Annos Praesul, semul Exul & idem

Bis Pugil in causa religionis erat.

Eighteen years Bishop, and once Banish'd hence

And twice a Champion in the Truths defence.

p. 243I understand it thus, once a Champion in suffering, when an Exile for religion, and again in doing, when chosen one of the disputants at Westminster against the Popish Bishops Primo Elizabethae; except any expound it thus: once Champion of the Doctrine against Papists, and afterwards against the Discipline of the Non-Confromists, none more stoutly opposing or more fouly belibelled of them.

God blessed him with a great estate, the main whereof he left unto Samuel Aylmer his eldest son, (High-sheriff of Suffolk in the reign of King Charles) and amongst his youngest sons (all well provided for) Doctor Aylmer Rector of Haddam in Hartfordshire, was one of the most learned and reverend Divines in his generation.

JOHN TOWERS was born in this County, bred Fellow of Queens-colledge in Cambridge; and became Chaplain to William Earl of Northampton, who bestowed on him the Benefice of Castle-Ashby in Northampton-shire. He was preferred Dean and at last Bishop of Peterborough.

He was a good actor when he was young, and a great sufferour when he was old, dying (about the year 1650.) rich onelyonly in Children and Patience. Nothing but sin is a shame in it self, and poverty as poverty (especially since our Saviour hath sanctified, it by suffering it) is no disgrace.

Capital Judges and Writers on the Law.

RALPH DE-HENGHAM so named from a fair Market-town in this County, was made Lord Chief-justice of the Kings-bench in Michaelmas term in the **Sir H. Spelman in the Gossary pag. 416.second year of King Edward the first, when the King was newly returned from the Holy-land. He sate 16. years in that place (saving that one Winborne was for a **Viz. Anno regis 10. & 13.year or two interposed) and at the general purging and garbling of the Judges, which happened in the 18. year of the aforesaid King, when all the Judges (except two, John de **Tho. Walsingham An. 1290.Metingham and Elias de Bekingham,) were cast out by the Parliament for their corruption, fined, banished and imprisoned, then this Ralph was merced in seven thousand marks, for bribery, and ejected out of his place.

Some will say, let him wither in silence, why do you mention him amongst the Worthies of our Nation? I answer, Penitence is the second part of Innocence, and we find this Ralph after his fine payed, made Chief-justice of the **6. Sept. 1. Ed. 11. inter Pa…t. Par. 1. Memb. 21.Common-pleas, sub recipiscendi fiducia, under the confidence generally conceived of his amendment. He died the next, being the 19. **Anno Domini 1292.year of the raign of King Edward the first, he lies buried in the Church of Saint Paul, where he hath or had this Epitaph,

Per versus patet hos Anglorum quod jacet hic flos

Legum, qui tuta dictavit vera statuta.

Ex Hengham dictus Radulphus vir benedictus.

One must charitably believe that he played a good after-game of integrity, and if injoying longer life, he would have given a clearer testimony thereof.

WILLIAM PASTON Esq. son of Clement Paston, Esq. and Beatrix his wife, (sister and heir to Jeffry Sommerton Esq.) was born at Paston in this County. He was learned in the laws of this Realm and first was Serjeant to King Henry the sixth, and was after by him preferred second Judge of the Common-pleas. I confess having confined our Catalogue to Capital Judges or Writers on the Law, he falls not under our method in the strictness thereof. But I appeal to the Reader himself, whether he would not have been highly offended with me, had I in silence passed over a person so deserving his observation.

He was highly in favour with King Henry the sixth, who allowed him, besides the ordinary salary assigned to other Judges, one hundred and ten marks, (Reader behold the Standard of money in that age and admire) with two Gowns to be taken yearly out of the Exchequer, as by the ensuing letters Patents will appear;

Henricus Dei gratia Rex Angliae & Franciae, & Dominus Hiberniae, Omnibus ad quos Praesentes literae pervenerint, Salutem: Sciatis quod de gratia nostra speciali, & ut dilectus, & fidelis noster Willielmus Paston unus Justiti. nostrorum p. 250de com. Banco Statum suum decentius manu tenere, & expensas, quas ipsum in officio pradicto facere oportebit, sustinere valeat; concessimus ei centum & decem marcas percipiendum singulis annis ad scaccarium nostrum, ad terminos Pasche & Sancti Michaelis per equales Portiones; & duas robas per annum percipiendum, unam videlicet cum Pellura ad festum Natalis Domini, & aliam cum Limra ad festum Pentecostes, ultra feodum consuetum, quamdiu ipsum Stare contigerit in officio supradicto. In cujus rei Testimonium has literas nostras fieri fecimus patentes, teste meipso apud Westminst. XV. die Octobris anno regni nostri octavo.

What Pellura is I understand, Furr, but what Limra is (if rightly written) I would willingly learn from another, though some are confident it is Taffata.

I wonder the less at these noble favours conferred on the said William Paston Judge, for I find him in grace with the two former Kings, being made Serjeant by King Henry the fourth, and of …is counsel for the Dutchie of Lancaster, and in the reign of King Henry the fifth, he was in such esteem with Sir John Falstofe Knight, that he appointed him one of his Feoffees, whom he enabled by a writing under his hand to recover debts from the Executors of King Henry the fifth.

This William Paston married Agnes daughter and heir of Sir Edmond Berrey, by which marriage the Pastons rightly quarter at this day the several Coats of Hetherset, Wachesham, Craven, Gerbredge, Hemgrave and Kerdeston, and received both advancement in bloud and accession in estate. This said VVilliam Paston died at London, August 14. 1444. and lies buryed in Norwich; so that his corps by a peculiar exception do straggle from the Sepulture of their Ancestors, who from VVolstan de Paston (who three years after the Conquest**Out of the book of Will. Botyner, fol. 20. sometimes Herauld to Sir John Falstofe, written in the reign of King Henry 6. and containeth all the ancient Gentry of this County. came into England to VVilliam Earl of Glandwill,) were all interred at Paston. He lest rich revenues to John Paston Esquire, his eldest son, who married Margaret daughter and heir of John Mautby; and no mean Estate to VVilliam his second surviving son, who married Anne daughter to Edmond Duke of Somerset.

Sir EDWARD COKE Knight, son of Robert Coke Esquire, and of VVinefred Knightly his wife, was born at Mileham in this County; bred, when ten years of age, at Norwich-school, and thence removed to Trinity-colledge in Cambridge. After four years continuance there, he was admitted into Cliffords-Inn-London, and the year following entered a Studient of the Municipal-law in the Inner-Temple. Such his proficiency therein, that at the end of six years (exceeding early in that strict age) he was call…d to the Bar, and soon after for three years chosen Reader in Lyons-Inn. Here his learned Lectures so spred forth his fame, that crouds of Clients sued to him for his counsel, and his own suit was the sooner granted, when tendering his affections in order to marriage, unto Briget daughter and Co-heir of John Paston Esquire.

She was afterwards his incomparable wife, whose Portion moderately estimated, Viis & modis, amounted unto thirty thousand pounds, her vertues not falling under valuation, and she enriched her husband with ten children.

Then began preferment to press upon him, the City of Norwich chusing him Recorder, the County of Norfolk their Knight to Parliament, the Queen her Speaker therein, as also successively her Solicitor and Attorney. King James honoured him with Knighthood, and made him Chief Justice, first of the Common-Pleas, then of the Kings-Bench. Thus beginning on a good bottome left him by his father, marrying a wife of extraordinary wealth, having at the first great and gainful practice, afterwards many and profitable Offices, being provident to chuse good penny-worths in purchases, leading a thrifty life, living to a great age, during flourishing and peaceable times, (born as much after the Persecution under Queen Mary, as dying before our Civil Wars) no wonder if he advanced a fair estate, so that all his sons might seem elder brethren, by the large possessions left unto them.

Some falsly character him a back-friend to the Church and Clergy, being a grand benefactour to the Church of Norwich, who gratefully under their publique seal honoured him with the ensuing testimony,

p. 251Edwardus Coke Armiger, saepius & in multis difficillimis negotiis Ecclesiae nostrae auxiliatus est, & nuper eandem contra Templorum Helluones, qui dominia, maneria & haereditamenta nostra devorare sub titulo obscuro (Concelatum dicunt) sponte suâ nobis insciis, & sine mercede ullâ legittimè tutatus est; atque eandem suam nostri defensionem, in perpetuam tantaerei memoriam, quam posterorum, (si opus fuerit) magna cum industria & scriptis redegit, & nostrae Ecclesiae donavit.

As for the many Benefices in his own Patronage, he freely gave them to worthy men, being wont to say in his Law-language, that he would have Church-livings pass by Livery and Seisin, not Bargain and Sale.

Five sorts of people he used to fore-design to misery and poverty; Chemists, Monopolizers, Concelers, Promoters, and Rythming Poets. For three things he would give God solemn thanks; that he never gave his body to physick, nor his heart to cruelty, nor his hand to corruption. In three things he did much applaud his own success; in his fair fortune with his wife, in his happy study of the laws, and in his free coming by all his Offices, nec prece, nec pretio, neither begging, nor bribing for preferment.

His parts were admirable, he had a deep judgment, faithful memory, active fancy; and the jewel of his mind was put into a fair case, a beautiful body, with a comely countenance; a case, which he did wipe and keep clean, delighting in good cloaths, well worne, and being wont to say, that the outward neatness of our bodies, might be a Monitor of purity to our souls.

In his pleadings, discourse and judgements, he declined all Circumlocutions, usually saying, The matter lies in a little room. In all places, callings and jurisdictions, he commended modesty and sobriety within their boundaries, saying, If a River swells beyond its Banks, it loseth its own Channel.

If any adverse party crossed him, he would patiently reply, If another punisheth me, I will not punish my self. In the highest Term of business he made Vacation to himself at his Table, and would never be perswaded privately to retract, what he had publikely adjudged, professing, he was a Judge in a Court, and not in a Chamber. He was wont to say, No wise man would do that in prosperity, whereof he should repent in adversity. He gave for his Motto, Prudens qui Patiens, and his practise was accordingly, especially, after he fell into the disfavor of King James.

The cause hereof the Reader may find in our English Chronicles, whilst we behold, how he employed himself when retired to a private life, when he did frui suo infortunio, and improv'd his loss to his advantage. He triumphed in his own innocency, that he had done nothing illegally, calling to mind the Motto which he gave in his rings when made Serjeant, Lex est tutissima Cassis, The Law is the safest Helmet.

And now he had leisure to peruse what formerly he had written, even thirty books with his own hand, most pleasing himself with a Manual, which he called his Vade mecum, from whence at one view he took a prospect of his life pass'd, having noted therein most remarkables. His most learned and laborious works on the Laws, will last to be admired by the judicious posterity whilst …ame hath a trumpet left her, and any breath to blow therein. His judgement lately passed for an Oracle in Law, and if since, the credit thereof hath causelesly been questioned, the wonder is not great. If the Prophet himself, living in an incredulous age, found …ause to complain,**Isa. 53. 1.Isa 53:1 Who hath believed our Report? it need not seem strange, that our licentious times have afforded some, to shake the authenticalness of the Reports of any earthly Judge.

He constantly had prayers said in his own house, and charitably relieved the poor with his constant almes. The foundation of Suttous-hospital (when indeed but a foundation) had been ruined before it was raised, and crush'd by some Courtiers in the hatching thereof, had not his great care preserved the same. The Free-school at Thetford was supported in its being by his assistance, and he founded a School on his own cost at Godwick in this County.

It must not be forgotten, that Doctor Whitgift (afterwards Arch-bishop of Canterbury) was his Tutor, who sent unto his Puple, when the Queens Atturney, a fair New Testament with this message; He had now studied Common-law enough, let him hereafter study the Law of God.

Let me adde to this, that when he was under a cloud at Court, and outed of his p. 252Judges place, the lands belonging to the Church of Norwich, which formerly he had so industriously recovered and setled thereon, were again called into question, being begged by a Peer, who shall pass nameless. Sir Edward desired him to desist, telling him, that otherwise he would put on his Gown and Cap, and come into Westminster-hall once again, and plead there in any Court in Justification of what he had done. He died at Stoke Poges in Buckingham-shire, on Wednesday the 3. of September being the 83. year of his age, whose last words were, Thy Kingdome come, Thy will be done.

Sir THOMAS RICHARDSON Knight, was born at Mulbarton in this County, his father being Minister thereof. He was bred in the study of our Municipal-law, and became the Kings Serjeant therein. Afterwards, on the 28. of November 1626. he was sworn Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas, that place having been void ten months before.

But coming now to our own times, it is safest for me to break off. Virgil, I remember, put a period to his Eclogue with

Et Hylax in limine latrat

—VVe'l Verfifie no more,

For do but hark, Hylax doth bark, at th' entrance of the Dore.

Seeing many will be ready to carp, it is safest for me to be silent, whilst his Brass Monument on the South-side of VVestminster Abby, thus entertaineth the Reader;

Deo Om. Thomae Richardsoni Iceni Equitis Aurati Humanum Depositum. Ille Juris Municip. omnes gradus exantlavit Conventus tertii ordinis ann. Jacobi Regis 21, & 22. Prolocutor extitit; Fori civilis (Communium Placitorum vocant) Supremum Magistratum quinquennium gessit; Ad summum tandem primarii per Angliam judicis Tribunal A Rege Carolo evectus: expiravit Anno aetatis 66. salutis MDCXXXIIII. Tho. Richardson fil. unicus Eques Aur. Baro Scotiae designatus Patri incomparabili posuit.

This Judge married for his second Lady Elizabeth Beaumont, the sister (as I take it) of Mary Countess of Buckingham, and the Relict of........ Ashburnham Knight. She was by King Charles Created Baroness of Craumount in Scotland, and (though issueless by the Judge) the Honour descended to his Grand-child.

Souldiers.

ROBERT VENILE Knight, one I confess whose name I never heard of, till meeting with this memorable Note in a Modern **Sir Rich. Baker Chron. 3. Ed. 3. p, 181.Historian;

And here must not be forgotten, Robert Venile Knight, a Norfolk man; who when the Scots and English were ready to give battle, a certain stout Champion of great stature, commonly called Tournboll, coming out of the Scots Army, and challenging any English man to meet him in a single combate; this Robert Venile accepteth the challenge, and marching towards the Champion, and meeting by the way a certain black Mastife dog, which waited on the Champion, he suddenly with his sword cut him off at the loyns, and afterwards did more to the Champion himself, cutting his head from off his shoulders.

This put me with blushing enough (that one so eminent in himself should be altogether to me obscure,) upon the inquiry after this valiant Knight, but all my industry p. 253could not retrive him in any author, so that he seems to me a kin to those spirits, who appear but once, and finally vanish away.

Sir OLIVER HINGHAM was born, richly landed, and▪ buried in Hingham, an eminent Market-town in this County. A right valiant man, whom King Edward the third left Governour of Aquitain in France, an honorable, but difficult place, being to make good a great Country with a few men, against a fierce and numerous enemy. Yet he gave a good account of his trust. When the French lay before Burdeaux, the Citizens thereof, to abuse the enemies hopes, set open their gates, displaying the Golden-lilies, the French-armes on their Towers, as if they were theirs; the French were no sooner securely entred, but brave Oliver, Captain of this City, and Warden of the whole Country for King Edward, gave them such an **Holinshead & Stow.entertainment, that they drank not so much Claret-wine in the City, as they left Bloud behi nd them. This happ'ned in the thirteenth year of the reign of King Edward the third.

This Sir Oliver liv'd many years after, and was made Knight of the Garter, and lies buried at Hingham under a fair tomb of free-stone curiously wrought, with his resemblance in his Coat-Armour (having a Crowned **Veavers Fnu. Mon. p. 817.Owle out of an Ivy-bush for his Crest) lying upon a Rock, beholding Sun, Moon, and Stars, (because a great Travailer) all lively set forth in metal, with four and twenty mourners about his monument.

JOHN FASTOLFE Knight, was a native of this County, as I have just cause to believe, though some have made him a French-man, meerly, because he was Baron of Sineginle in France, on which account they may rob England of many other Worthies. He was a Ward (and that the last) to John Duke of Bedford, a sufficient evidence to such who understand time and place to prove him of English extraction. To avouch him by many arguments valiant, is to maintain that the sun is bright, though since the Stage hath been over bold with his memory, making him a Thrasonical Puff, and emblem of Mock-valour.

True it is Sir John Oldcastle did first bear the brunt of the one, being made the make-sport in all plays for a coward. It is easily known out of what purse this black peny came. The Papists …ailing on him for a Heretick, and therefore he must also be a coward, though indeed he was a man of arms, every inch of him, and as valiant as any in his age.

Now as I am glad that Sir John Oldcastle is put out, so I am sorry that Sir John Fastolfe is put in, to relieve his memory in this base service, to be the anvil for every dull wit to strike upon. Nor is our Comedian excusable, by some alteration of his name, writing him Sir John Falstafe, (and making him the property of pleasure for King Henry the fifth, to abuse) seeing the vicinity of sounds intrench on the memory of that worthy Knight, and few do heed the inconsiderable difference in spelling of their name. He was made Knight of the Garter by King Henry the sixth, and died about the second year of his reign.

Sir CLEMENT PASTON Knight, fourth son to Sir VVilliam Paston, son to Sir John Paston, a famous Soldier, and favorite to King Edward the fourth, (sent by him with the Lord Scales to conduct the Lady Margaret, the sister of the King, to her husband Charles Duke of Burgundy,) son to VVilliam Paston the Judge, was born at Paston in this County. When a youth he was at the burning of Conquest in France, and afterwards by King Henry the eight was made Captain of one of his ships of war, and in a Sea-fight took a French Gally, and therein the Admiral of France prisoner, called the Baron of Blancard, whom he brought into England, and kept at Castor nigh rarmouth, till he had payed 7000. crowns for his ransome, besides the spoil of the Galley, wherein he had a cup and two snakes of gold, which were the Admirals, and which Sir Clement used during his life on Festivals, and at his death bequeathed them to his family for a monument. He received divers wounds, and was left for dead at Muscleburough-field in Scotland. When Sir Thomas VVyat in the reign of Queen Mary, was worsted at Ludgate, and desired for the more civil usage to render himself to a Gentleman, he submitted himself (saith our Historian) to Sir Clement Paston. He served at New-haven, having command of some ships of Queen Elizabeth, and was pensioner to two Kings, and two Queens successively. So rare was his happiness, that he spent his old age honourably, quietly and in good house-keeping in this County, where at Oxnit, p. 256he built a goodly house for hospitality, and a hospital hard by, for six poor serving-men, retainers to his name and family, allowing them convenient maintenance. He died Anno Domini 15.. and lieth buried in a fair tombe in the Church at Oxnit.

Seamen.

No County in England doth carry a top and top gallant more high in Maritime performances, then Norfolk. Witness the proportion of Yarmouth alone in the ensuing Catalogue of Ships, used by King Edward the third against Calis.

Know Reader, I cannot with all my diligence and interest recover the Original of this Catalogue, as extant not in the Tower, (where by my friends favour I could do something) but in the Kings great VVardrobe in London, out of which it is cited by our**Hackluit in his English Voyages, Vol. 1. p. 118. &c. Author. But our times (I fear) have brushed it away with the rest of the VVardrobe. However give me leave to make some Annotations thereon.

1. These Ships, as by their great number appeareth, were small vessels: Yet as good as any in that age of England; and better (witness their victories) then any in France.

2. The Proportion may seem strange that Yarmouth should afford, well nigh, twice as many Ships and Mariners, as London it self.

3. Except it was that the King spared London, at this time, as the sure reserve for his Navy, on all occasions.

4. Or except there be a mistake in the numbers, (figures in Writing, as well as figures in Rethorick may, with a small dash, have their Meiosis made an Hyperbole.) And the various Lections in the Mariners of Yarmouth doth something shake (though not shatter) the credit of the account.

5. The numbers may be very true, Yarmouth in that age being so populous a place, that (though but one Parish) a lamentable Plague in one year did sweep thence**Camd. Brit. in Norfolk. 7000 men to the grave.

Thus, though the Church (and that very large) could never hold their Living, the Church yard could contain the Dead. Seeing persons alive will not be pressed in their Pews so close, as Corps may be crowded together in their Graves. But let us proceed to the particular Sea men of this County, and let none be offended if a Frier be put in the front before all the rest, viz.

NICHOLAS of LYNNE**Bale de scrip. Brit. Cent. 6. Num. 25.Num 25 born in that Town, bred in Oxford, and is generally accounted a Franciscan Frier. But my**Idem ibidem. Author, being a Carmelite himself, makes him one of his own Order. And all acknowledge him an excellent Musician, Mathematician, and Astrologer.

It is reported of him, how in the year 1330. being the thirty year of the reign of King Edward the third, he sailed, with others, to the most Northern Islands in the world. Then leaving his company, and taking his Astrolabe, he, by the help of ArtMagick, (so Mathematicians are nick-named by the ignorant) went as far as the Pole it self, where he discovered four In-draughts of the Ocean, from the four opposite Quarters of the World, from which many did conceive, as well the flowing of the Sea, as blasts of the Winds to have their Original. Were these things true, and had they been known to the Ancients, as it would have spared Philosophers much pains, in disputing the Moon the cause of the Motion of the Tide in the Sea, so had it spoiled**In the 2. of his Aeneid. Virgil his fancy, in making the Country of Aeolia the onelyonly Magazene of the winds.

Sure I am, Gerardus Mercator hath so graced the fancy of this Frier, that he made his description of the Countries about the Artick Pole, conformable to this his imaginary p. 255discovery, preferring to fill that his Map with a Fiction, then otherwise to leave it altogether empty. But the other Parts of his book have more solid and substantial truths, ór else weak were the Shoulders of his Atlas to support the world therewith.

But to return to Frier Nicholas. **Dr. John Dee.One tells us he wrote a book of his discoveries, and intituled it Inventio Fortunata. Sure it is, he was highly honoured by our learned *Chaucer, witness his testimony of him, styling Freere N. Linne, A reverend Clerk. But all his learning could not sence him from death, which happened about the year 1360. and he was buried in Linne, the Town of his nativity.

PETER READ what he was, his ensuing Epitaph on his Monument in the South-Isle in Saint Peter's Church in Norwich will fully acquaint you,

Here under lieth the Corps of Peter Read Esquire, who hath worthily served not onelyonly his Prince and Country, but also the Emperour Charles the fifth, both at his Conquest of Barbary, and his Siege at Tunis, as also in other places. Who had given him by the said Emperour for his valiant deeds the order of Barbary. Who died the 29. day of December in the year of our Lord God 1566.

We place him among Sea men because finding first his mention in**Nol. p. 99. Hakluit's voyages, and Salt-water is the proper Element of the Pen of that Author.

Secondly, because his service was performed at Tunis, a Port-town in a Sea expedition. Now, although we confess it follows not, that he was born in or about Norwich, because buried therein; (Vast oftimes the distance betwixt the Cradles and Coffins of far-travaillers,) yet let none dislike his placing here, but such who can disprove it, and depose the negative, that elsewhere he had his nativity.

It is observable that this Sir Peter, Kinghted by the Emperour, as appears in his Epitaph, (let me adde Anno 1538.) is onelyonly styled, not less modestly then truly Esq. upon his Monument. I confess some maintain that though higher honours (Baron, Count, &c.) are onelyonly local to be owned by the person receiving them, in that place where they are given him: Yet that Knighthood given by a Sovereign Prince is universal and passeth currant, through all Christendome. But others, their equals, as stifly deny it, and one who is their superior, (I mean Queen Elizabeth) who in the case of**See it dicuss'd at large in Camd. Eliz. Count Arundle, would not admit of any forreign honour conferred on her Subjects, avowing that her sheep should onelyonly be known by her own Mark.

Writers.

JOHN BACONTHORPE was born in a**Bale script. Brit. Cent. 5. Num. 1.Num 1 Village so called in this County, bred a Carmelite in the Convent of Blackney, and afterwards studied first in Oxford, then in Paris, one remarkable on many accounts. First for the Dwarfishness of his stature,

Scalpellum calami atramentum charta libellus,

His Pen-knife, Pen, Ink-horn, one sheet of Paper, and any of his books would amount to his full height. As for all the books of his own making, put together, their burden were more then his body could bear.

Secondly, for his high spirit in his low body. Indeed his soul had but a small Diocess to visit, and therefore might the better attend the effectual informing thereof. I have heard it delivered by a learned Doctor in Physick, (at the Anatomy lecture in London) who a little before had been present at the Emboweling and and Embalming of Duke Hamilton and the Lord Capel, that the heart of the former was the largest, the latter the least he had ever beheld, inferring hence, that contracted spirits act with the greatest vigorousness.

Thirdly, for his high title, wherewith he was generally termed the resolute Doctor. Two sorts of people he equally disliked, Scepticks who are of none; and unconstant people who are [successively] of all opinions, and whilst others turned about like the Wheel, he was as fixed as the Axletree in his own judgement. Yet this his resoluteness was not attended with censuring of such who were of another Opinion, where equal probability on either side allowed a latitude to dissent.

p. 256He groaped after more light then he saw, saw more than he durst speak of, spake of more then he was thanked for by those of his superstitio…s Order, amongst whom (saith Bale) neither before, nor after, arose the like for learning and religion. Most agree in the time of his death, Anno 1346. though dissenting in the place of his burial, assigning Blackney, Norwich, London, the several places of his Interment.

JOHN GOLTON born at Tirington in this County, was Chaplain to William Bateman Bishop of Norwich, and first Master (by the appointment of the Founder) of **Parker in his Skeletos Cantabrigiensis.Gonvil-hall in Cambridge. Leland allows him a man plus quam mediocriter doctus & bonus, for which good qualities King **So sairh Pitz. but mistaken, for it was K. Richard the second p. 382.Henry the fourth advanced him Arch-bishop of Armagh and Primate of Ireland. He was imployed to the Court of Rome in the heavy schisme betwixt Pope Urban the sixth and Clement the seventh, which occasioned his writing of his learned treatise, De causa Schismatis; and because, knowing the cause conduceth little to the cure without applying the remedy, he wrote another book De Remediis ejusdem. It seemeth he resigned his Arch-bishoprick somewhat before his death, **J. Wareus de script. Hib. p. 129.which happened in the year of our Lord 1404.

ALAN of LYNNE was **Bale de script. Brit. Cent. 7. Num. 54.born in that famous Mart-town in this County, and brought up in the University of Cambridge, where he proceeded Doctor of Divinity, and afterwards became a Carmelite in the Town of his nativity. Great his diligence in reading many and voluminous Authors, and no less his desire, that others with him should reap the fruit of his industry, to which end he made Indexes of the many Writers he perused.

An Index is a necessary implement, and no impediment of a book, except in the same sense wherein the Carriages of an Army are termed Impedimenta. Without this, a large Author is but a labyrinth without a clue to direct the Reader therein. I confess, there is a lazy kind of learning, which is onelyonly Indical; when Scholars (like adders which onelyonly bite the horse heels) nibble but at the Tables, which are calces librorum, neglecting the body of the book. But, though the idle deserve no Crutches, (let not a staff be used by them, but on them,) pity it is the weary should be denied the benefit thereof, and industrious Scholars prohibited the accommodation of an Index, most used by those who most pretend to contemn it.

To return to our Alan, his Herculean labour in this kind doth plainly appear to me, who find it such a toil and trouble, to make but an Index of the Indexes he had made of the Authors following.

1 Aegidius

2 Alcuinus

3 Ambrosius

4 Anselmus

5 Aquinas

6 Augustinus

7 Baconthorpe

8 Basil

9 Bede

10 Belethus. Bles.

11 Bernard

12 Berthorius

13 Cassianus

14 Cassiodorus

15 Chrysostome

16 Cyril

17 Damascen

18 Gerard. Laodic.

19 Gilbert

20 Gorham

21 Gregory

22 Haymo

23 Hierome

24 Hilary

25 Hugo

26 Josephus

27 Neckam

28 Origen

29 Pamph. Eusebius

30 Phil. Ribot

31 Raban

32 Remigius

33 Richard

All these **De script. Brit. p. 553.I. Bale, professeth himself to have seen in the Carmelites Library at Norwich, acknowledging many more which he saw not.

Now, although it be a just and general complaint, that Indexes for the most part are Heteroclites, I mean, either redundant, in what is needless, or defective, in what is needful; yet the Collections of this Alan were allowed very complete. He flourished Anno 1420. and was buried at Lynne in the Convent of Carmelites.

WILLIAM WELLS was born (saith **De Ang. script. p. 609.Pitz.) at Wells, the Cathedral See in Somerset-shire, wherein no doubt he is mistaken: For, (be it reported to any indifferent judgement, that) seeing this VVilliam had his constant converse in this County, (living and dying an Augustinian in his Covent at Lynne,) and seeing there is a VVells no mean Market-Town in this Shire, with more probability he may be made to owe his nativity and name to Norfolk. He was for twenty years Provincial of his Order in England, Doctor of Divinity in Cambridge, an industrious man and good writer; abate only the Siboleth of Barbarisme, the fault of the age he lived in. He died and was buried at Lynne 1421.

p. 257JOHN THORPE was born in a Village so called in this County, bred a Carmelite at Norwich, and Doctor at Cambridge. Logick was his Master-piece; and this Dedalus wrote a book intituled the Labyrinth of Sophismes, and another called the Rule of Consequences, for which he got the title of **Bale de script. Brit. Cent. 7. Num. 100.Doctor Ingeniosus. This minds me of a Prognosticating Distick on the Physiognomies of two children,

Hic erit Ingenuus non Ingeniosus, at ille

Ingeniosus erit, non erit Ingenuus

The later of these characters agreeth with our Thorpe, who had a pound of wit for a dram of good nature, being of a cruel disposition, and a violent persecutor of William White, and other godly Wickliffites. He died Anno Domini 1440. and lieth buried at Norwich.

His name causeth me to remember his Name-sake of modern times lately deceased, even Mr. John Thorpe B. D. and Fellow of Queens-colledge in Cambridge, my ever honored Tutor, not so much beneath him in Logick, as above him in the skill of Divinity and an Holy conversation.

JOHN SKELTON is placed in this County, on a double probability. First,A M P. because an ancient family of his name, is eminently known long fixed therein. Secondly, because he was beneficed at Dis a Market-town in Norfolk. He usually styled himself (and that Nemine contradicente, for ought I find) the Kings Orator and Poet Laureat. We need go no further for a testimony of his learning than to Erasmus, styling him in his letter to King Henry the eight, Britannicarum Literarum Lumen & Decus.

Indeed he had seholarship enough, and wit too much; seeing **Pitz. de Ang. script. in Anno 1529.one saith truly of him, Ejus sermo salsus in mordacem, risus in opprobrium, jocus in amaritudinem. Yet was his Satyrical wit unhappy to light on three Noli me tangere's, viz. the rod of a Schoolmaster, the Couls of Friars, and the Cap of a Cardinal. The first gave him a lash, the second deprived him of his livelyhood, the third almost outed him of his life.

William Lilly was the School-master, whom he fell foul with, though gaining nothing thereby, as may appear by his return. And this I will do for W. Lilly, (though often beaten for his sake) endeavour to translate his answer;

Quid me Sceltone fronte sic apertâ

Carpis, vipereo potens veneno?

Quid versus trutinâ meos iniquâ

Libras? dicere vera num licebit?

Doctrinae, tibi dum parare famam,

Et Doctus fieri studes Poeta,

Doctrinam nec habes, nec es Poeta.

VVith face so bold, and teeth so sharp

Of Vipers venome, why dost carp?

VVhy are my verses by thee weigh'd

In a false scale? may truth be said?

VVhilst thou to get the more esteem

A learned Poet fain wouldst seem:

Skelton thou art, let all men know it,

Neither l…arned, nor a Poet.

The Dominican Friars were the next he contested with, whose vitiousness lay pat enough for his hand; but such foul Lubbers fell heavy on all which found fault with them. These instigated Nix Bishop of Norwich, to call him to account for keeping a Concubine, which cost him (as it seems) a suspension from his benefice.

But Cardinal VVolsey (impar congressus betwixt a poor Poet and so potent a Prelate) being inveighed against by his pen, and charged with too much truth, so persecuted him, that he was forced to take Sanctuary at VVestminster, where Abbot Islip used him with much respect. In this restraint he died June 21. 1529. and is buried in Saint Margarets Chappel with this Epitaph,

J. Sceltonus Vates Pierius hic situs est.

The word Vates being Poet or Prophet, minds me of this dying Skeltons prediction, foretelling the ruine of Cardinal VVolsey. Surely, one unskilled in prophecies, if well versed in Solomons Proverbs, might have prognosticated as much, that, Pride goeth before a fall.

We must not forget, how being charged by some on his death-bed, for begetting p. 258many children on the aforesaid Concubine; he protested, that in his Conscience he kept her in the notion of a wife, though such his cowardliness that he would rather confess adultery, (then accounted but a venial;) than own marriage esteemed a capital crime in that age.

Since the Reformation.

JOHN BARRET was born of an honest family at**J. Bale in his book intituled Script. nostri temporis. Linne in this County, bred a Carmelite of White-Friars in Cambridge, when learning ran low, and degrees high in that University. For many usurped scarlets, qualified onelyonly with ignorance and impudence, (properties seldome parted) so that a Scholar could scarcely be seen for Doctors, till the University sensible of the mischief thereby, appointed Doctor Cranmer (afterwards Arch-bishop of Canterbury) to be the Poser-general of all Candidates in Divinity, amongst whom he stopt Barret for insufficiency.

Back goes Barret to Linne, turns over a new, yea many new leaves, plying his book to purpose, whose former ignorance proceeded from want of pains, not parts; and in short time became a tollerable, a good, an excellent, and admirable scholar, and Commencing Doctor with due applause, lived many years a painful Preacher in Norwich, always making honourable mention of**Fox Acts and Mon. in the life of Archbishop Cranmer. Doctor Cranmer, as the means of his happyness. Indeed he had been ever, if not once, a dunce, who if not debarred had never deserved his Degree. Bale saith that in the reign of Q. Mary, he returned to his vomit, and became a great Papist. But his praises are better to be believed then his invectives, and seeing Wood not growing crooked, but warping with weight, may be straightned again, we charitably believe that though complying in times of persecution, he returned to the truth in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, in the beginning whereof he died.

EDMOND GOURNEY born in this County, was bred in Queens and BennetColledge in Cambridge, where he Commenced Bachelour of Divinity, and afterwards was beneficed in this Shire. An excellent scholar, who could be humorous and would be serious, as he was himself disposed; his humors were never prophane towards God, or injurious towards his Neighbours, which premised, none have cause to be displeased if in his fancies he pleased himself.

Coming to me in Cambridge when I was studying, he demanded of me, the subject whereon I studied, I told him I was Collecting the Witnesses of the truth of the Protestant Religion through all ages even in the depth of Popery, conceiving it feasible though difficult to evidence them.

It is a needless pains (said he) for I know that I am descended from Adam, though I cannot prove my pedigree from him. And yet Reader, be pleased to take notice he was born of as good a family as any in Norfolk. His book against Transubstantiation, and another on the second Commandement, are learnedly and judiciously written, he died in the beginning of our Civil Wars.

Benefactors to the Publique.

GODFREY BOLLEN Knight, Son of Jeffrey Bollen, was born at**Stow's Surv. p. 567. Salle in this County. Being but a second brother he was sent into the City to acquire wealth, ad aedificandum domum antiquam. Unto whose atchievements fell in both the blood and inheritance of his eldest**Fragmenta regalia. brother for want of Issue Male. By which accumulation he attained great wealth, and Anno Domini 1457. was Lord Mayor of London. By his Testament made in the next year, he gave liberally to the Prisoners, Hospitals, and (aaViz. the Donation of Sir Simon Eyre.) Lazer-houses. Besides, (bbStow's Surv. p. 89.) he gave one thousand pounds (the greatest sum I meet with in that age to pious uses,) to poor Housholders in London: and two hundred pounds to those in Norfolk. But it was the height of his and our happiness that he was Great-grand-father by the Mothers side to Queen Elizabeth.

JAMES HOBART was born in this County, though I dare not say at Halleshall, which he left to his posterity. He was Atturney-general, and of the Privy-counsel to King Henry the seventh, by him dubbed Knight at such time as he Created Henry his Son Prince of Wales. This worthy Patriot (besides his many benefactions to his Parish-church in London,) built a fair Bridge over the river**Camd. Brit. in Norfolk. VVaveny, betwixt this p. 257County and Suffolk, and a firm Cause-way thereby, with many other works of charity, so that the three houses of his issue, planted in this County, with fair possessions, may be presumed to prosper the better, for the piety of this their Ancestour.

ANDREW PERNE was born at**Parker in his Sceletos Cantab▪ in Manuscript. Bilny, bred in Peter-house, whereof he was Fellow and Master, as also Proctor and Vice-chancellour of Cambridge and Dean of Ely. Very bountiful he was to his Colledge wherein he founded a Fellowship and Scholarships. Besides many rare**Some have questioned whither the M. S. were of his gift. Manuscripts he acquired to their Library. But his memory ought most to be honoured (Saving Gods living Temples, is better then building dead Colledges) on this account, because in the days of Queen Mary, he was the Skrene to keep off the fire of Persecution, from the faces and whole bodies of many a poor Protestant, so that by his means no Gremial of the University was martyred therein.

I know he is much taxed for altering his Religion four times in twelve years, (from the last of King Henry the eight, to the first of Queen Elizabeth,) a Papist, a Protestant, a Papist, a Protestant; but still Andrew Perne. However be it known, that though he was a Bending VVillow, he was no Smarting VVillow, guilty of Compliance not Cruelty, yea preserving many who otherwise had been persecuted.

He was of a very facetious nature, excellent at Blunt-sharp Jests, and perchance sometimes too tart in true ones. One instance of many; This Dean chanced to call a Clergy-man fool, (who indeed was little better) who returned that he would complain thereof to the Lord Bishop of Ely. Do (saith the Dean) when you please, and my Lord Bishop will Confirm you.

Yet was Doctor Perne himself at last heart-broken with a Jest, (as I have been most credibly informed from excellent hands,) on this occasion. He was at Court with his Pupil Arch-bishop VVhitgift in a rainy afternoon, when the Queen was (I dare not say wilfully) but really resolved to ride abroad, contrary to the mind of her Ladies, who were on hors-back (Coaches as yet being not common) to attend her. Now one Clod the Queens Jester was imployed by the Courtiers to laugh the Queen out of so inconvenient a Journey. Heaven (saith he) Madam diswades you, it is cold and wet; and Earth diswades you, it is moist and dirty. Heaven diswades you, this heavenly minded man Arch-bishop Whitgift; and Earth diswades you, your fool Clod, such a lump of clay as my self. And if neither will prevail with you, here is one that is neither Heaven nor Earth, but hangs betwixt both, Doctor Perne, and he also diswades you. Hereat the Queen and the Courtiers laugh'd heartily, whilst the Doctor look'd sadly, and going over with his Grace to Lambeth, soon saw the last of his life.

Since the Reformation.

Sir THOMAS GRESHAM was born in this County, bred a Mercer and Merchant in the City of London, where God so blessed his endeavours that he became the Wealthiest Citizen in England of his age, and the founder of two stately Fabricks, the Old Exchange a kind of Colledge for Merchants, and Gresham-Colledge a kind of Exchange for Scholars.

I have learn'd from Goldsmiths, that Vessels made of Silver and Guilt, are constantly Burnished; seldome or never those few which are made of Massy Gold, whose real intrinsick worth disdaineth to borrow any Foyl from Art. Let lesser Donations be amplified with rhetorical Prayses. Nothing need be said of this worthy Knights gifts, but his gifts, and take them truly copied from the Original of his Will, as followeth,

First, concerning the building in London called the Royal Exchange, with all Shops, Cellars, Vaults, Tenements thereunto belonging; I will, and dispose one moity to the Mayor, Commonalty, and Citizens of London, upon confidence that they perform the payments, and other intents hereafter limited.

The other moity of the said buildings, to the Wardens and Commonalty of the Mystery of Mercers, of the City of London, upon trust that they perform the payments, and other intents hereafter mentioned.

p. 262I Will and Dispose, that they the said Mayor and Commonalty, do give and distribute for the sustentation, maintenance, and finding four Persons, from time to time to be chosen, nominated, and appointed by the said Mayor, &c. to read the Lectures of Divinity, Astronomy, Musick, and Geometry, within mine own dwelling house in the Parish of Saint Hellens. I give and dispose, out of this moity, two hundred pouuds to be payed to the four Readres sufficiently learned, fifty pounds to each yearly.

I likewise give the said Mayor, &c. fifty three pounds to be yearly distributed in manner following,

Unto eight Almes-folks, whom the said Mayor, &c. shall appoint to inhabit my eight Almes-houses in the Parish of St. Peters Poor, the summe of six pounds, thirteen shillings, four pence, to each of them to be payed at four usual terms, &c.

I likewise Dispose out of this moity, fifty pounds yearly, to be distributed by the said Mayor, &c. To the Prisoners in New-gate, Lud-gate, the Kings-bench, the Marshalsey, the Counter in Wood-street; ten pounds to each prison, to be paid among the poor thereof.

The other moity of the said building disposed to the Mercers, I Will and Dispose, out of it, to be by them paid one hundred and fifty pounds to the finding, &c. three persons to be by the Wardens, &c. chosen, nominated, and appointed to read the Lectures of Law, Physick, and Rhetorick.

That the said Mercers shall out of their moity, yearly expend one hundred pounds at four several Dinners, for the whole Company of the said Corporation, in the Mercers-hall in London, on every Quarter day.

That they shall distribute to the several Hospitals of Christ-church, Saint Bartholomews, the Spittle at Bedlam, the Hospital for the poor in Southwark, and the Poultry-Counter, fifty pounds yearly in money or other provisions ten pounds,

My Mansion house with the Gardens, Stables, &c. I give to the Mayor and Commonalty of London, and also to th… Wardens and Commonalty of the Mystery of Mercery, to have and to hold in Common, upon trust and confidence that they observe, perform, and keep my Will, and true meaning hereafter expressed.

My Will, Intent, and Meaning is, that the said Mayor, and Commonalty, and their Successors, and that the said Wardens and Commonalty of t…e Mercers, shall permit and suffer seven persons, by them from time to time to be elected and appointed as aforesaid, to meet and sufficiently learned to read the said seven Lectures, to have the occupation of all my said Mansion house, Gardens, &c. for them aud every of them there to inhabite, study, and daily to read the said several Lectures. And my Will is, that none shall be chosen to read any of the said Lectures, so long as he shall be married, neither shall receive any Fee or Stipend appointed for the reading of the said Lectures.

Moreover, I Will and Dispose, that the said Mayor, and Commonalty, and Mercers, shall enjoy the said Royal Exchange, &c. for ever, severally by such moities as is before expressed; provided, they do in the tearm of fifty years provide and obtain sufficient and lawful Dispensations and p. 263Licenses, warrant and authority, upon trust and confidence, and to the intent that they shall severally for ever maintain and perform the payment, charges, and all other intents and meanings thereof, before limited and expressed, according to the intent and true meaning of these presents.

And that I do require and charge the said Corporations and chief Governours thereof, with circumspect diligence, and without long delay, to procure and see to be done, and obtained such Licenses as they will answer for the same before Almigbty God, for if they, or any of them, should neglect to obtain such Licenses, no Prince nor Counsel in any degree, will deny or defeat the same; and if conveniently by my Will or other Conveyance, I might assure it, I would not leave it to be done after my Death. Then the same shall revert to my Heirs, whereas I do mean, the same to the Commonweale, and then their default thereof, shall be to the reproch and condemnation of the said Corporation before God. &c.

This worthy Knight compleated his second change, I mean of a mortal life for a Blessed Eternity, on the 21. of November 1579. and lieth buried in the Parish Church of Saint Hellens.

Sir WILLIAM PASTON Knight, son and heir to Erasmus Paston of Paston Esquire, is justly recounted a Publick Benefactour. True it is, the family whence he was extracted, were always forward in deeds of Charity. according to the devotion of the days they lived in. Witness their …ountiful donations to the Abbys of Saint Bennet in the Holme, and Bromholme in this County, after the Reformation; they had not (with too many) less heat, because more light, but continued the stream though they changed the Channel of charity. This Sir William erected a very fair school, with thirty pounds per annum, for the maintenance thereof at Northwalsam in this County, a deed no doubt acceptable to the God of heaven.

Solomon saith, Teach a Child in the trade of his youth. But alas! it's above the reach of poor parents to teach their Children, lacking learning to do it themselves, and livelyhood to hire others, save where such good persons as this worthy Knight, have made provision for them. This Sir William married Francis the daughter of Sir Tho. Clear of Stokesby, and was Great-grand-father to Sir William Paston the bountiful promoter of all my weak endeavours.

HENRY HOWARD youngest son of Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey, and brother to Thomas Howard last Duke of Norfolk, was bo… at**The Continuer of Stows Annals pag. 1012. Shotesham in this County. He was bred a serious student for many years in Kings colledge in Cambridge, then in Trinity-hall, **Cowels Epist. Ded. to his Institutions.going the ordinary path and pace to the degree of Mastership, without any honorary advantage. Here he became a grea… and general Scholar, witness his large and learned work intituled, A D…pensative against the poyson of supposed Prophesies, and dedicated to Sir Francis Walsingham. His fortune left him by his Father, was not great, and he lived privately all the reign of Queen Elizabeth, till King James advanced him in honour and wealth.

Here, for variety sake, and the better to methodize our matter, we will make use of a distinction common in the Custome-house, about bills of lading, Inwards and Outwards, observing what greatness were imported and conferred on him, what gratitude was exported and performed by him.

He died the 15. of June 1614. and was buried in the ancient Chappel of the Castle of Dover.

Memorable Persons.

—SHARNBORN, born at, and Lord of Sharnborn a considerable Mannor in this County. This Manner William the Conquerour, out of the plenitude of his power conferred on one Warren a Norman Souldier.

But Sharnborn was not so tame, as silently to set down, and suffer a stranger peaceably to possess his inheritance, which his English Ancestors for many years had injoyed, but fairly traversed his Title, (I will not say in Westminster-hall, as of later erection in the reign of King Rufus) but in that publick place, where Pleas were held in that age.

Surely none but a Norfolk-man, durst go to Law with the Conquerour, and question the validity of his Donations. Yea brave Sharnborn got the better of the Suit, and the Kings grant was adjudged void. This is pertinently pressed by many to prove that King William (though in Name) was in very deed no Conquerour, but came in by composition to keep the Laws of England.

Now as I am heartily sorrowful that Sharnborn possessed ever since, (almost 600. years) by that name and family, should in our age be sold, and aliened from it, (whose heir males are just now extinct) so am I cordially glad that it is bought by a worthy person, Francis Ash Esquire, which, with some limitation hath freely setled it (being of good yearly value) on Emanuel-colledge, and may they as long enjoy it as the former owners, if before that term, the Day of Judgement put not a Period to all earthly possessions.

Lord Mayors.

p. 265The names of the Gentry of this County returned by the Commissioners in the twelfth year of King Henry the sixth 1433.

Abbatis de Langle

Abbatis de Creek

Abbatis de Wendelyng

Abbatis de Derham

Prioris Sancte fidis

Prioris de VValsyngham

Prioris de Tetford

Prioris de Linne

Prioris de Yernemouth

Prioris de Ingham

Prioris de Cokysforde

Prioris de Westar

Prioris de Penteneye

Prioris de Castelacre

Prioris de Bromhill

Prioris de Ghildham

Prioris de Wyrmingheye

Prioris de Bokynham

Prioris de Bromholm

Prioris de Hyking

Prioris de Petreston

Prioris de Flycham

Prioris de Baeston

Iohan. Clyfton, mil.

Briani Stapulton, mil.

Tho. Kerdeston

Hen. Inglose, mil.

Tho. Tudenham, mil.

Rog. Harsick, mil.

Hen. Richford, mil.

Iohan. Curson, mil.

Henry Grey

Williel…i Calthorp

Iohan. Fitz-Rauf de Moris

Thomae Willoughby

Oliveri Groos

Thomae Chaumbir

Edmundi Winter

Nich. Apilyerde

VVill. Apilyerde

Nicholai Castel

Edmundi Stapulton

Thomae Pigot

Henrici Walpole

Thomae Trusbute

Willielmi Byllingford

Willielmi Daubeney

Thomae Astele

Radulphi Lampet

Iohannis Woodehouse

Iohan. Berney de Redham

Ioh. Berney de Wythingham

Georgii Holkham

VVillielmi Yelverton

Edmundi VVychyngham

Iohan. Heydon

VVill. Grey de Merston

VVillielmi Raimis

Thomae Dengayne

Iohannis Clepisby

Iohannis Strange

Richardi Gogh

Christopheri Strange

Henrici Catte

Iohannis Bakon

Henrici Nottyngham

Henrici Sharyngton

Roberti Martham

VVillielmi Bellingford

VValteri Aslak

Thomae Lovell

Thomae Shuldham

Simonis Fincham

VVill. VValton

Thomae Derham

Roberti Godard

Thomae Kervile

Hen. Stormer

Iohan. Hamond

Georg. Hethe

Iohan. Fox de Castelacro

Nich. Bokkyng

Nich. Stonwell

VVill. Spynk

Thomae Chelton

Iohan. Bekkeswell

Iohan. Rysele

Roberti Popyngeay

Iohan. VVentworth

VValt. Eton

VVill. Thurleton

VVill. Tweyth

Edmundi Sekford

Iohan. Michell

Thomae Boys

Iohan. Dory

Iohan. Bacheler

Thomae Selors

Thomae Brigge

Thomae Gurney

VVill. Brampton

Iohan. Clare

Iohan. Austyn

Iohan. Bolle

Roberti Brom

Iohan. Knight

Galfridi Grey

Iohan. Bullok

Iohan. Brustbon

Simonis Godknap

Robert. Padyrys

Robert. Blogge

Rich. Chirche

Ade Mundforth

Iohan. Gigges

VVill. Dyton

Galfridi Craneweys

Edmundi Massingham

Osberti Mundford

Tho. Fyssher

Iohan. Seche

VVill. Thakker

VVill. Barbour

Iohan. Crane

Iohan. Holdernese

Leonardi Claxton

Tho. Fannyngham

Tho. …

Iohan. Thursby

Iohan. VVesinham

Rich. Frank

Nich. Frank

Iohan. VVythe

Iohan. Parlementer

VVill. VVythe

Rad. Brecham

Roberti VValsyngham

VVill. Kirton

Iohan. Stannton

Iohan. Miryoll

Iohan. Syff

p. 266Tho. Spicer

Tho. Salysbury

Iohan. VVaryn

Iohan. VVarner

Rich. Lychour

Iohan. Bury

Iohan. Brekerope

Edmundi Goldyng

Iohan. Tylney

Andr. Swanton

VVill. Kellowe

Iohan. Abbot

Iohan. Frewill

VVill. Stapulton

Iohan. VVayte

Iohan. Gybbon

Rober. Brandon

Nich. VVythe

Iohan. Nicolasson

Iohan. Andrewe

Alexan. Draper

Tho. Midleton

Iohan. Thorn

VVill. Sylk

Simon. Body

Nich. Benpre

Edmund. Bonet

Tho. Feltwell

Rad. Midylton

Rich. Baker

Iohan. Howard

Iohan. Eye

Rich Deye

Rich. Billingforth

Iohan. Tremche

Will. Bullman

Will. Candelere

VVill. Stokker

Iohan. Bosse

Iohan. Sturmy

VVill. Fyrsk

Iohan. Parker

Sen. Hetersite

Rog. Scot

Iohan. Joye

Hen. VVarner

Tho. Manning

Rich. Cans

Tho. Norwold

Iohan. Bredeman

Georg. Palgrave

Iohan. Rede.

VVill. Ede

Tho. Gyle

Tho. Candeler

Tho. Stywarp

Iohan. VValpell

Tho. Canon

Iohan. Mortoft

Rich. Vewtre

Iohan. Alcok

VVill. James

Iohan. Tylls

Rog. Brook

Iohan. Bee

VVill. Tanerham

Rich. Baret

Iohan. Loumour

Tho. VValisch

Galf. Brewster

VVill. Newegate

Iohan. Man

Pet. Hokkeham

VVill. Seyne

Iohan. Monk

Iohan. Lewes

Iohan. Seforth

Tho. Colles

Iohan. Chapman

Edmund. Clerk

Tho. Bertram

Rob. Norwich

Iohan. Sweyn

Iohan. Puttok

Tho. Trunch

Iohan. Wynse

Iohan. Byrston

Tho. Stipoard

Rich. Cordy

Iohan. Webbe

Rich. VVode

Iohan. Spark

Iohan. Atte Mere

Iohan. Ely

Iohan. Dany

Edmund. Wode

Tho. Richeforth

Iohan. Dawes

Alani. Twykke

Simon. Cook

Nich. Parke.

Iohan. Legge

Rich. Henke

Rob. Ling

Tho. Monnsewes

Tho. Yekesworth

Iohan. Trench

Iohan. Elyngham

Iohan. Bettys

Iohan. Porter

Iohan. Bemys

Iohan. Molitis

Edw. Wylnby

Will. Moletis

Tho. Holley

Nich. Holley

Robert. Holley

Simon. Dykone

Iohan. Westhaw

Edmund. Parker

Galf. Fox

Iohan. Draper

Iohan. Homerston

Hen. Aphagh

Will. Atte Hagh

Hugo. Bedenham

VVill. Prentys

Iohan. VVatterden

Tho. Burgh

Iohan. Doggyng

Geor. VVyton

VVill. Sparkam

Iohan. Baily

Hen. Thursby

Iohan. Mersch

Galf. Cobbe

Denys VVellys

Tho. Moket

Edmund. Cole

VVill. Cole

Iohan. Scorowr

Iohan. Reppes

VValt. VVedurby

Iohan. Brechinham

VVill. Payn

Alex. Payn

Iohan. Brygg

Iohan. Crosse

Steph. Silvestre

Bob. Teyser

Tho. Bowde

Iohan. Swayn, jun.

Iohan. Grenede Folsham

Rob. Kervyle

Simon. Tyller

Iohan. Arnald

Rich. Carleton

Edmund. Michell

Iohan. VVodesende

VVill. Stubbe

Iohan. Lawyes

Hen. Lesingham

Iohan. Jucewode

Nich. Rake

VVill. Fox

Iohan. Green

VVill. Dallyng

Nich. VVaterman

VVill. Norwhich

Iohan. Tasburgh

Iohan. Brampton

Robert. Brese

Edmund. Ade

Tho. Pye

p. 267Rich. Rede

Johan. Gerard

Johan. Dam

Johan. Bernard

Johan. L…ford

Tho. Sto…agh

Rich. Ballord

Tho. Walsham

Johan. Spany

Johan. Penny

Johan. Hastynges

Rich. Stotevyle

Tho. Arnald

Robert. Elys

Will. Granour

Rich. Elys

Johan. Berhyng

Rog. Hoddes

Will. Baily

Johan. Crancle

Nich. Baxter

Robert. Dooke

Nich. Pykeryng

Robert. Kent

Tho. Unphrny

Walt. Heylot

Tho. Rycheman

Johan. Howard

Johan. Levoth

Johan. Annsell

Robert. Fyllisson

Rog. Calleston

Tho. Halle

Robert. Martham

Galf. Walle

Johan. Panne

Johan. Cobald

Johan. Phelipp

Johan. Merschgate

Robert. Cupper

Tho. Eyre

Johan. Cobbe

Rich. Flykke

Robert. Heyloth

Johan. Mannyng

Simon. Falsham

Robert. Hendy

Lauren. Oky

Radulph. Bronnyng

Johan. Pepyr

Tho. Martyn

Johan. Roche

Johan. Span

Oliv. Kevet

Johan. Deynes

Johan. Holler

Johan. Fuller

Johan. Puttok

Edmund. Rysyng

Robert. Atte Lee

Johan. Broune de Weveton

Johan. Meleman

Tho. Brydge

Thom. Roose

Gals. Bolayn

Will. Blonnevyse

Edmund. Yonghousbond

Edmund. Godewyn

Tho. Twytwell

Rich. Holdyche

Johan. Holtman

Robert. Randes

Tho. Glaveyn

Robert. Wyrmegey

Tho. Person

Robert. VVylly

Johan. Maynard

Johan. de Pulham

VVillielm. Arnald de Crommer

Robert. Russell

Johan. VVodewane

Ade VVilliamson, & Robert. Cravell

Sheriffs of Norfolk and Suffolk.

HEN. II.

Anno 1

Rich. Basset, & Alberi. de Veer

Anno 2

Will. de Nova Villa, & Will de Jeaxmeto

Anno 3

Will. de Caisuei, sive Caisuer

Anno 4

Anno 5

Will.

Anno 6

Anno 7

Anno 8

Anno 9

Will. de Chaisu

Anno 10

Oggerus Dapifer, for 6 years.

Anno 16

Barth. Glanvill, & Vinar. Capellanus, & Will. Bardull, for 6 years.

Anno 22

Vinar. Capellanus, for 11 years.

Anno 33

Vin. pro dimid. Anno & Will. fil. Hervei dimid.

RICH. I.

Anno 1

Will. filius Hervei

Anno 2

Idem.

Anno 3

Rob. filius Rog. & Pet. de Edichfeld

Anno 4

Rob. filius Rog. & Sam. de Salia

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

Idem.

Anno 7

Osber. de Longo Campo

Anno 8

Idem.

Anno 9

Idem.

Anno 10

Rob filius Rog. & Rich. de Gosfeld

JOH. REG.

Anno 1

Rob. filius Rog. & Rich. de Gosfeld

Anno 2

Idem.

Anno 3

Pet. de Mealton

Anno 4

Idem.

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

Alex. de Dunham, & Alex. Banister

Anno 7

Idem.

Anno 8

Johan. de Cornheard, for 4 years.

Anno 12

Walt. de Huntingfeld, & Will. Esturmi

Anno 13

Idem.

Anno 14

Rob. fil. Rog. & Will. filius Rosicke

Anno 15

Will. sive Walt. de Huntingfeld, Will. Escurmi

Anno 16

Johan. fil. Rob. & Rob. de Kent

Anno 17

Johan. filius Rob. filius Rogeri

HEN. III.

Anno 1

Anno 2

Hubert. de Burge

Anno 3

Idem.

Anno 4

Idem.

Anno 5

Hu. & Ric. de Frefingfeld.

p. 268Anno 6

Hubert. & Rich. Ducket

Anno 7

Idem.

Anno 8

Hub. & Tho. Ingoldethorpe

Anno 9

Idem.

Anno 10

Hugo. Rufus

Anno 11

Idem.

Anno 12

Herb. de Alencum, for 5 years.

Anno 17

Rob. de Brivas

Anno 18

Idem.

Anno 19

Tho. de Heningham

Anno 20

Idem.

Anno 21

Tho. Ingoldesthorpe

Anno 22

Idem.

Anno 23

Rob. de Broyons

Anno 24

Johan. de Ulecott

Anno 25

Idem.

Anno 26

Hen. de Heketon, & Hamo. Passeleve

Anno 27

Idem.

Anno 28

Hamo. Passeleve, for 6 years.

Anno 34

Rob. de Savage, for 6 years.

Anno 40

Will. de Swyneford

Anno 41

Idem.

Anno 42

Idem.

Anno 43

Hamo. Hanteyn

Anno 44

Hamo. & Hen. de Stanho

Anno 45

Idem.

Anno 46

Phil. Marnium, & Will. de Hekam

Anno 47

Nich. Espigornel, for 5 years.

Anno 52

Rob. de Norton

Anno 53

Idem.

Anno 54

Idem.

Anno 55

Will. Giffard

Anno 56

Idem.

EDW. I.

Anno 1

Will. Giffard

Anno 2

Idem.

Anno 3

Rob. filius Johannis

Anno 4

Walt. de Shelfhaugre

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

Walt. Granimt

Anno 7

Johan. Brito, & Will. de Bedham

Anno 8

Idem.

Anno 9

Idem.

Anno 10

Will. de Doinge

Anno 11

Idem.

Anno 12

Will. de Rochinger, for 6 years.

Anno 18

Rich. de Belhus

Anno 19

Will. de Nedham

Anno 20

Idem.

Anno 21

Idem.

Anno 22

Will. de Gerbe

Anno 23

Idem.

Anno 24

Idem.

Anno 25

Will. de Rideston

Anno 26

Idem.

Anno 27

Will. de Sutton

Anno 28

Idem.

Anno 29

Will. de Ailton

Anno 30

Rob. Hereward, for 5 years.

Anno 35

Egid. de Mumpinzon

EDW. II.

Anno 1

Tho. de Sancto Omero

Anno 2

Hen. de Seagrave

Anno 3

Rob. Baygnard

Anno 4

Idem.

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

Rob. & Alex. de Claveringe

Anno 7

Rich. de Claveringe

Anno 8

Rich. de Retham

Anno 9

Rich. & Alex. de Claveringe

Anno 10

Johan. de Fitton, & Will. de Rungeton

Anno 11

Johan. Howard

Anno 12

Johan. Seafoule

Anno 13

Johan. Howard, & Edw. Hemingne

Anno 14

Idem.

Anno 15

Idem.

Anno 16

Anno 17

Egid. de Wachesham

Anno 18

Idem.

Anno 19

Idem.

EDW. III.

Anno 1

Tho. de Lindringham, & Rob. de Walkefare

Anno 2

Johan. de Londham

Anno 3

Idem.

Anno 4

Idem.

Anno 5

Rog. de …

Anno 6

Rog. de Bourne, & Rog. de Kird…ston

Anno 7

Rog. de Bourne, & Edw. de Baconsthorpe

Anno 8

Johan. de Cailly

Anno 9

Idem.

Anno 10

Rob. de Causton

Anno 11

Idem.

Anno 12

Johan. de Harsike

Anno 13

Rob. Causton, & Joh. Harsike

Anno 14

Rob.

Anno 15

Tho. Belisforde

Anno 16

Edw. de Creting

Anno 17

Idem.

Anno 18

Idem.

Anno 19

Johan. Haward

Anno 20

Will. de Midleton

Anno 21

Idem.

Anno 22

Idem.

Anno 23

Johan. de Colby

Anno 24

Idem.

Anno 25

Will. de Midleton

Anno 26

Idem.

Anno 27

Edw. de Creting

Anno 28

Idem.

Anno 29

Tho. de Mareux

Anno 30

Guido Seynclere

Anno 31

Idem.

Anno 32

Idem.

Anno 33

Johan. de Battlesden

Anno 34

Idem.

Anno 35

Tho. de Sancto Omero for 4 years.

Anno 39

Rog. Gyney

Anno 40

Will. de Clere

Anno 41

Tho. Morieux

Anno 42

Idem.

Anno 43

Rog. Holdich

Anno 44

Idem.

Anno 45

Edw. de Thopre

Anno 46

Rob. Bacon

Anno 47

Johan. Mantby

Anno 48

Johan. Mantby

Anno 49

Will. de Kirdeston

Anno 50

Oliver. de Calthrope

Anno 51

Johan. de Browes.

p. 269HENRY the Second.

16 BARTH. GLANVILL, & VINAR. CAPELLANUS.]

It may seem strange that this Vinar. Capellanus, that is, Vini. the Chaplain, should be Sheriff so many years together. One would have sought for a person of his Profession, rather in the Pulpit, then in the Shire-hall. But in that age Men in Orders did not onelyonly engross places of Judicature, but also such as had Military and Martial relation, whereof the Sheriffs place in some sort may seem to partake. Sure I am, that under the reign of King Charles, one prick'd Sheriff of Rutland escaped, by pleading that he was a Deacon. But now all this is said, this …. the Chaplaine may still be a Layman, seeing in England Multi Clerici sunt Laici, many Clerks by Name, are no Clerks by Profession. Chaplain may be his Surname, and the same with de Capella or Capell, a right ancient name I assure you.

Sheriffs of Norfolk and Suffolk.

HENRY the Seventh.

14 PHILLIP CALTHROPE, Miles.]

He was a very grave Gentleman, (and lived to a great age) yet withal of a very merry, and pleasant conceit, whereof take this instance.

He sent as much cloth of fine French-tauney, as would make him a Gown, to a Tailor in Norwich. It happened, one John Drakes a Shoo-maker coming into the Shop, liked it so well, that he went and bought of the same as much for himself, p. 271enjoyning the Taylor to make it of the same fashion. The Knight being informed hereof, commanded the Taylor to cut his gown as full of holes, as his Sheers could make, which purged J. Drakes of his proud humour, that he would never be of the Gentlemans fashion again.

HENRY the Eight.

29 EDMUND WINDHAM.]

He was a Gentleman of a fair Estate in this County, great Birth and Aliance, (whose Grand mother, was daughter to John Howard Duke of Northfolk,) but it seems somewhat given to his Passion. This caused him (in the 33. of this Kings reign) to strike Master Clere, a Gentleman of his own County, in the Kings Tennis Court. For this he was araigned in the great Hall at Greenwich, before Master Gage, Comptroler of the Kings Houshold, and other Justices, and one Quest of Gentlemen, another of Yeomen passed upon him, to enquire of the same stripe, by whom he was found guilty, and had Judgement to lose his right-hand. Then was he brought in to solemn execution, by Sir Willian Pickering Knight Martial, and confessing his fault, desired that the King of mercy would be pleased to take his left-hand, and spare his right; for therewith (said he) I may hereafter be able to do his Grace service. The King informed hereof by his Justices, granted his full Pardon, neither to lose Hand, Land, nor Goods, but restored him to his liberty. See more of him in the third of King Edward the sixth.

EDWARD the Sixth.

3 EDMUND WINDHAM, Mil.]

Of him before in the twenty ninth of King Henry the eight, he now made good his former promise to the Son, which he made to his Father, of using his right-hand in the service of his Sovereign. For in this year Kets Rebellion began in this Couuty, which this Sheriff endeavoured, withal his power and policy to suppress, till at last it proved a task beyond his strength to perform.

Queen MARY.

1 THOMAS WOODHOUSE, Mil.]

Though he be the first of his Surname, whom we meet in our Catalogue, I find many of his family anciently employed in State-affairs. In a Manuscript-collection (extant in the Library of Sir Thomas Cotton) of persons summoned to Parliament, by King Edward the third, I read,

1. Rex dilecto Clerico suo Roberto de Woodhouse, Archidiacono de Richmund, Thesaurario salutem. Negotia nos & statum regni contingentia, &c. vobis mandamus firmiter injungentes, quod omnibus aliis praetermissis, &c.

2. John Woodhouse, Esq was servant, and one of the **Stow's Chro. p. 362.Executors to King Henry the fifth.

3. Sir VVilliam VVoodhouse, (neer related to our Sheriff) was **Sir John Hayward in the life of Edw. 6. p. 15.Vice-Admiral of our English fleet at Musoleburrough-field.

4. Philip VVoodhouse, Esq was very active at the taking of Cadiz, and **Camdens Eliz. Anno 1596.Knighted there for his good service, by the Earl of Essex.

And ever since there hath been a Military inclination in this family, which hath manifested it self on several occasions.

p. 272Sheriffs of Norfolk alone.

Queen ELIZABETH.

18 DRUGO DRURY, Arm.]

This Sir Dru being afterwards Knighted, was joyned in Commission with Sir Amias Paulet, to keep Mary Queen of Scots, and discharged his dangerous trust therein. It moveth me not, that I find both these Knights branded for **Camd. Eliz. Anno 1584.Puritans, being confident, that Nick-name, in relation to them both, was first pronounced through a Popish mouth, causlesly offended at their Religion.

King CHARLES.

5 ROGER. TOWNSEND Baronet.]

He was a religious Gentleman, expending his soul in piety and charity, a lover of God, his Service, and Servants, A grave **Mr. Bolton in his funeral Notes on Judge Nichols.Divine saith most truly, that incroachments on the Church, are like breaches of the Seas, a thousand to one if they ever return. But this worthy Knight may be said to have turn'd the tide, restoring Impropriations p. 273to the Church, to some hundreds in yearly valuation. He married Mary, daughter and co-heir of Horatio Lord Vere of Tilbury, by whom he had Sir Horace, who for his worth was deservedly Created a Baron at the Coronation of King Charles the second.

The Farewell.

And now being to take my leave of this County, I wish the inhabitants thereof may make good use of their so many Churches, and cross that pestilent Proverb, The nigher to the Church, the farther from God, substituting another (which will be a happy change) in the room thereof, viz. The more the Churches, the more sincere the Devotion.