The History of the Worthies of England, Part 2 · County 30

The History of the Worthies of England · Part 2 · County 30

p. 278NORTHAMPTON-SHIRE being a long narrow Inland County, is stretched from North-east to South-west, and bordereth on more Counties then any other in England, being nine in number, viz.

It is as fruitful and populous as any in England, insomuch that sixteen several Towns with their Churches have at one view been discovered therein, by my eyes, **Other men have discovered two and thirty.which I confess none of the best, and God grant that those who are sharper sighted, may hereafter never see fewer.

Sure I am there is as little wast ground in this, as in any County in England, (no Mosses, Mears, Fells, Heaths, (Whitering, but a Beauty spot,) which elsewhere fill so many Shires with much emptiness,) Northamptonshire being an Apple, without Core to be cut out, or Rind to be pared away.

Northamptonshire challengeth that all the Rivers running through, or by it, are its Natives, as bred in it, (which argueth the elevation, and height of the ground thereof,) which I believe no other County in England can say. Besides, it lendeth two considerable Rivers Avon to Warwick, and Cherwell to Oxfordshire.

The language of the common people is generally the best of any Shire in England. A proof whereof, when a Boy, I received from a hand-labouring-man herein, which since hath convinced my Judgement: We speak I believe (said he) as good English any Shire in England, because, though in the singing Psalms, some words are used to make the Meeter unknown to us; yet the last translation of the Bible, which no doubt was done by those learned men in the best English, agreeth perfectly with the common speech of our Country.

Know Reader, that Doctor Bowle my worthy friend, and most skilful Botonographist, hath taken notice of a Heath in this County nigh to Stamford, whereof he giveth this **Phytologia B…itannica p. 82.commendation, as fine a place for variety of rare Plants, as ever I beheld. Who I am sure hath seen in this kind, as much, both here, and beyond the Seas, as any of his age and profession.

Natural Commodities.

Now though this Shire shares as largely as any in those profits which are generall to England, Grass, Corn, Cattle, &c. Yet it is most eminent for

Salt-peter.

In latine Sal Petrae, rather so called, because exudat è petris, it usually sweats out of rocks, then, because it is wrought up at the last to a rocky or a stony consistency. Some conceive it utterly unknown to the ancients, which learned Hoffman will not allow, onelyonly it was disguised unto them, under the name of Sal nitrum, though our modern use was unknown unto them, that Pulvis nitrosus, or Gun-powder might be made thereof. It is foreign what will easily take fire, the best Test of the goodness thereof.

But, why is Salt-peter (common to all Counties) insisted on in Northamptonshire? Because, most thereof is found in Dove-houses, and most Dove-houses in this great Corn County. Yet are not those Emblemes of innocency, guilty in any degree of those destructions, which are made by that, which is made thereof. All that I will adde of Salt-peter, is this, I have read in a learned **Dr. Jorden of MineralBaths c. 11.Writer that Salt-peter-men, when they have extracted Salt-peter out of a floor of earth one year, within three or four years after, they find more generated there, and do work it over again.

p. 279Pigeons.

These of all fowls, live most sociably in a Common-wealth together, seeing their government is not, as Bees, Monarchical. They are generally reported without gall, understand it, their gall is not sequestred into a distinct vessel, as in other creatures. Otherwise we find the effects thereof in their animosities among themselves, (whose Bills can peck as well as kiss) as also (if their Crops be not clearly drawn,) in the bitterness of their flesh. They are most swift in flight, and the steerage of their Tails conduceth much to their steddy mounting upright. An envious man, having caught his neighbours Pigeons in a Net, feeding on his Stack, pluck'd off their Tails and let them go. Which, though they could fly forward home, yet were soon after found dead in the Dove coat, famished for want of food, as unable to fly up perpendicularly, and so out at the Lover.

Pigeons, against their wills, keep one Lent for seaven weeks in the year, betwixt the going out of the old, and growing up of the new grain. Probably, our English would be found as docible and ingenious, as the Turkish Pigeons, which carry letters from Aleppo to Babilon, if trained up accordingly. But such practices, by these Wingposts, would spoil many a Foot-post, living honestly by that painful vocation.

I find a grievous Indictment drawn up against the poor Pigeons for felony, as the grand plunderers of grain in this Land. My **Sam. Hartlib. of Husband. his Legacy p. 227.Author computing six and twenty thousand Dove-houses in England and Wales, and allowing five hundred pair in each House, four bushels yearly for each pair, hath mounted the annual wast they make to an incredible sum. And, if the moity of his proportions hold true, Doves may be accounted the causers of dearth, and justly answer their Etimology in Hebrew Jonah, which is deduced from a root, signifying to spoil or to destroy. The Advocates for Pigeons plead, that they pick up such loose corn, which otherwise would be lost, and uselesly troden into the earth; that probably Divine Providence, which feedeth the fowls, by some natural instinct directeth them to such grain, which would be barren and fruitless, that their dung, incredibly fruitful for the manuring of ground, abundantly recompenseth the spoil done by them.

However, if Pigeons be guilty of so great stealth, they satisfie the law for the same, being generally kill'd for mans meat, and a corrected-pigeon (let blood under both wings) is both pleasant and wholesome nourishment.

The Manufactures.

This County can boast of none worth naming, whereof this the reason, sufficient the fruitfulness thereof in Corn, Grass, (and what not necessary for nature?) for it's plentiful subsistance. The Elder Brother who hath the inheritance of his own to maintain him, need not to be bound an Apprentice, let the younger turn Trades-man, and inlarge his narrow portion by his inaustry. It is enough for Northamptonshire to sell their Wooll, whilst that other Countrys make cloath thereof. I speak not this (though it be my Native …ountry) to praise Northamptonshire men for not using, but that Northamptonshire men may praise God for not needing Manufactures. However the Town of Northampton may be said to stand chiefly on other mens Leggs, where (if not the best) the most and cheapest boots and stockens are bought in England.

I am credibly informed by a good friend, that the Manufacture of Cloathing hath by prudent and able persons, been endeavoured effectually (understand me in design not success) in this County, and yet (though fine their Wool) their Cloath ran so coarse, it could not be sold without loss; Thus God hath innated every Country with a Peculiar Genius, and when Art crosseth Nature, neither succeed, but both exceed, where both concurre.

Buildings.

As Saint Peter hath the Primacy of all the other Apostles, so the Cathedral dedicated unto him in this County, challengeth the Precedency of all in England, for a Majestick Western Front of Columel-work. But alas! This hath lately felt the misfortune of p. 280other Fabricks in this kind. Yea, as in a Gangrean, one member is cut off to preserve the rest, so I understand the Cloysters of this Cathedral were lately plucked down to repair the Body thereof; and am heartily glad God in his mercy hath restored the onelyonly remedy (I mean its lands) for the Cure thereof.

As for Civil Structures, Holdenby-house lately carried away the credit, built by Sir Christopher Hatton, and accounted by him the last Monument of his Youth. If Florence be said to be a City, so fine that it ought not to be shown, but on Holy-days; Holdenby was a House, which should not have been shown, but on Christmas-day. But alas! Holedenby-house is taken away, being the Embleme of human happiness, both in the beauty and brittleness, short flourishing, and soon fading thereof. Thus one demolishing Hammer, can undoe more in a day, then ten edifying Axes can advance in a Month.

Next is Burleigh-house nigh Stamford, built by William Lord Cecil. Who so seriously compareth the [late] state of Holdenby and Burleigh, will dispute w…th himself, whither the Offices of the Lord Chancellour or Treasurer of England be of greater Revenues, seeing Holedenby may be said to show the Seal, and Burleigh the Purse, in their respective magnificence, proportionable to the power and plenty of the two great▪ Officers that built them.

Withorpe must not be forgot, (the least of Noble Houses, and best of Lodges,) seeming but a dim reflection of Burleigh, whence it is but a Mile distant. It was built by Thomas Cecil Earl of Exeter, to retire to (as he pleasantly said) out of the dust, whilst his great House of Burleigh was a sweeping.

Castle Ashby the Noble Mansion of the Earl of Northampton succeeds, most beautifull before, a casual fire deformed part thereof. But seeing fire is so furious a plunderer, that it giveth whatsoever it taketh not away, the condition of this house is not so much to be condoled, as congratulated. Besides these, there be many others, no County in England, yeilding more Noble men; no Noble men in England, having fairer habitations. And although the Freestone whereof they be built, keepeth not so long the white innocence, as Brick doth the blushing modesty thereof; yet when the fresh luster is abated, the full state thereof doth still remain.

The Wonders.

There is within the Demeasnes of Boughton, (the Barony of the Right Honorable Edward Lord Mountague,) a Spring which is conceived to turn wood into stone. The truth is this, the coldness of the water incrustateth wood (or what else falleth into it) on every side with a stony matter, yet so that it doth not transubstantiate wood into stone. For the wood remaineth entire within, untill at last wholy consumed, which giveth occasion to the former erroneous relation. The like is reported of a Well in Candia with the same mistake, that Quicquid incidit lapidescit. But I have seen in Sidney-colledge in Cambridge, a Skull brought thence, which was candied over with stone within and without, yet so as the bone remained intire in the middle, as by a casual breach thereof did appear. This Skull was sent for by King Charles, (and whilst I lived in the house) by him safely again returned to the Colledge, being a Prince as desirous in such cases to preserve others propriety, as to satisfie his own curiosity.

Medicinal Waters.

Wellingborough-well.

Some may conceive it called Wellingborough, from a sovereign Well therein anciently known, afterwards obstructed with obscurity, and re-discovered in our days. But Master Camden doth marr their mart, avouching the ancient name thereof Wedlingburough. However thirty years since a water herein grew very famous, insomuch that Queen Mary lay many weeks thereat. What benefit her Majesty received by the Spring here, I know not, this I know, that the Spring received benefit from her Majesty, and the Town got credit and profit thereby. But it seems all waters of this kind have (though far from the Sea) their ebbing and flowing, I mean in esteem. It was then full tide with Wellingburough-well, which ever since hath abated, and now I believe is at low water in its reputation.

p. 281Proverbs.

The Mayor of Northampton opens Oysters with his Dagger.]

This Town being 80 miles from the Sea, Sea fish may be presumed stale therein. Yet have I heard that Oysters (put up with care, and carried in the cool,) were weekly brought fresh and good to Althrope, the house of the Lord Spencer at equal distance. Sweeter no doubt then those Oysters commonly carried over the Alpes, well nigh 300. miles from Venice to Viena, and there …eputed (far fetch'd and deer bought) daintes to great persons, though sometimes very valiant their savour. Nor is this a wonder, seeing Plinny tell us, that our English Oysters did Romanis culinis servire, Serve the Kitchings of Rome; Pickled as some suppose, though others believe them preserved by an ingenious contrivance, (Epicures bear their brains in there bowels,) and some conceive them carried in their shells. But seeing one of their own Emperours gave for his Motto; Bonus odor h…stis, melior Civis occisi; Good is the smell of an Enemy, but better the smell of a Citizen of Rome, killed. I say unto such a RomanNose, stinking may be better then sweet Oysters, and to their Palates we'll leave them.

He that must eat a buttered Fagot, let him go to Northampton.]

Because it is the dearest Town in England for fuel, where no Coles can come by Water, and little Wood doth grow on Land. Camden saith of this County in general, that it is, Silvis, nisi in ulteriori & citeriori parte, minùs laetus. And if so when he wrote, fifty years since, surely it is less wooddy in our age.

What reformation of late hath been made in mens judgments and manners, I know not, sure I am, that deformation hath been great in trees and timber: who verily believe, that the clearing of many dark places, where formerly plenty of wood, is all the new light this age produced.

Pity it is no better provision is made for the preservation of woods, whose want will be soonest for our fire, but will be saddest for our water, when our naval walls shall be decayed. Say not, that want of wood will put posterity, on witty inventions for that supply, seeing he is neither pious nor prudent parent, who spends his patrimony, on design that the industry and ingenuity of his son may be quick'ned thereby.

Princes.

ELIZABETH daughter of Sir Richard Woodevill, by the Lady Jaquet his wife, (formerly the relict of John Duke of Bedford,) was born at Grafton Honour in this County, in proof whereof many stronge **The … had formerly for four generations lived at Grafton, as appears by the L…gerbook of Pipwell-Abbey.presumptions may be produced. Sure I am, if this Grafton saw her not first a child, it beheld her first a Queen, when married to King Edward the fourth.

This Elizabeth was widow to Sir John Grey, who lost his life for the house of Lancaster; and Petitioned King Edward to take off the sequestration from her Joynter.

Beauty is a good solicitress of an equal sute, especially where youth is to be the judge thereof. The King fell much inamored with her feature, whilst the Lady put her self into a chast posture, and kept a discreet distance, neither forward to accept, nor froward to decline his favonr.

She confessed her self too worthless to be his wife, yet pleaded too worthy to be his wanton, till at last the King was content to take her upon her own terms, though a widow and his Subject.

She got more greatness then joy, height then happiness by her marriage; her husband keeping company with others for his pleasure, her for posterity: Nor was it long before the tempest of his lust drave him to another Shore, which had a greater share in his affections.

This Lady liv'd to see the death of her husdand, murder of her two sons, restraint of her self, and rest of her children. And though her condition was altered and bettered, by the marriage of her eldest daughter to King Henry the seventh, yet that cunning King, (who always weighed his love in the ballance of policy) was not over p. 282dutiful to her, nor over-loving to her daughter. She dyed Anno Domini 14...

But her memory is most remarkable to posterity for finishing Queens-colledge in Cambridge, (wherein I had my first breding, and for it, and all therein, shall ever have an unfeigned affection) begun by Queen Margaret, (wife to King Henry the sixth) an implacable enemy to her husband, so that the two houses of Lancaster and York had their first amity in that Foundation, a comfortable presage that in process of time they should be publikely and effectually united.

RICHARD PLANTAGENET son to Richart Plantagenet Duke of York, was born at Fothinghay castle in this County. He was somewhat rumpled in his Mothers womb, (which caused his crooked back) otherwise handsome enough for a Soldier. Ajax and Ulysses, Valour and Eloquence, met in his person, having as well a tongue to flatter, as an arm to fight.

He compassed the Crown by cruelty, and the killing of his Nephews, the two Sons of King Edward the fourth. When King, he made good Laws, which never procured him the peoples love, as who beheld vice for his native colour, and virtue for his painted complexion, on design to make himself popular.

He lost the Crown and his life in the battle of Bosworth, where it may be verified of him, what Livy saith of Hannibal, when beaten by Scipio, that in that fight he performed all the offices of a wise General, and valiant Souldier, onelyonly fortune did not befriend him.

If any except that King Richard in this battle was too prodigal of his own person, engaging it too far for a General; his condition did excuse him herein, with whom it was all one, to dye, as too survive Success. His memory hath since met with a Modern **George Buck. Esquire.Pen, who hath not onelyonly purged, but praised it to the height, and pity it is, that so able an Advocate, had not a more meriting person to his Client. He was slain Anno Domini 1435.

KATHARINE PAR daughter to Sir Thomas Par, and last wife to King Henry the eighth, may probably be presumed a Native of this Shire. However to prevent cavils, we resign her over to Westmerland, where (God willing) we shall meet with her character.

Saints.

WERBURGH was daughter to Wolpher Prince of Mercia, who had his chief **Camd…ns Brit. in this County.Palace of Residence at Wedon in the Street in this County, which place her father bestowed on her for her Portion. She was bred a Nun, under Saint Audery her Aunt, and Abbess at Ely, untill such time that she was able, of herself, to go alone without leading, in a Monastical life. Returning to Wedon, she turned that place which had been her fathers Palase, into a Monastery.

Besides Wedon, she had the inspection of two other Monasteries, Trekingham in Lincolnshire, and Hamburge, noted by my **The English Martyrology. In the third day of Feb.Author, neer Ely in Cambridgeshire, though no such place appear in any modern Maps or Catalogue. She parted herself, whilst living, successively betwixt these three places. But on her death-bed, commanded her body to be buried at Hamburge, when contrary to her Will, it was carried to the Monastery of Trekingham, and the gates thereof fast locked, and carefully watched, to keep so great a Treasure.

Reader, if the day be as long with thee, when thou readest, as it was with me, when I wrote the ensuing story, time may the better be afforded, for the perusal thereof. My **Idem ibidem.Author proceeds.

Eut see a wonder. [It were well if we could see, whereas now, by his leave, we do but hear it,] They, which were appointed to watch the same, fell into a deep sleep, so as the people of Hamburge coming in the night for the Body, the gates, both of the Monastery and Church, were opened themselves without mens hands, and taking it away without any resistance, they interred it at Hamburge, as before her death she requested.

Wonder not they were so ambitious for her body, for as Werburgh was her name, which by a **R. Verstegan p. 212.great Antiquary is interpreted, the Keeper or Conserver of a Burgh or p. 283Town, so all presumed she would prove a Tutelary Patroness to the place which possessed her body, seeing **Cujus miracula in sugandis hinc anseribus, scriptores creduli decantarunt.some have reported, that she hath miraculously driven away all Geese from Wedon, that they shall destroy no grain th…reabout. If this be true, then as a certain Jupiter amongst the Heathens, was called **Camd. Brit. in Northampt.Jupiter foreign Jupiter the flie-flapper, who drave away those offensive Insects, let this Saint hereafter be termed Werburga foreign, the chaser away of noisome Geese, which spoil grain, grass, and water, where they come. She died Anno Domini 675. her body was afterwards taken* Apud Pausioniam in Eliacis. up, and translated to Chester, where Hugh Lupus, somewhat after the Conquest, built the fair Monastery of Saint Werburghs to her memory, converted into a Cathedral by King Henry the eight.

Martyrs.

This County affordeth no Marian Martyrs, thanks be to a good and Gracious God, a meek and moderate man, David Pool Bishop of Peterburough, whom I here mention the more willingly, not knowing where to fix his Nativity. However

Unus Homo nobis.

One Martyr we had, not chargable on the Bishop, but his bloudy Arch-Deacons account, John Gurd of Syrsam a Shoo-maker burnt in **Fox Acts and Monn. Anno 1557.Northampton.

As for Augustine Dudley Parson of Castor, though some of his familly credibly informed me, that he was Martyred, yet on enquiry, his fufferings amounted not to loss of life, and therefore the less wonder, that they escaped the drag-net of Master Fox's diligence.

Cardinals.

HENRY CHICHLEY was born at Higham Ferrers in this County, and by the Author of Antiquitates Britanicae, is avouched made Cardinal by the title of Saint Eusebius. But, because this appeareth not in his Epitaph on his Tombe, (wherein an exact inventory of all his dignities) the truth thereof is justly suspected, and I reserve his character to be ranked amongst the Benefactors to the Publique.

Prelates.

RICARD of NORTHAMPTON.

ADAM of NORTHAMPTON.

We compound them for several reasons. First, because natives of the same Town. Secondly, both going over into Ireland, there became Bishops of the same See. Thirdly, because the history of them is, single, so slender it cannot subsist alone, though twisted together; it is posible that their memories may support one the other. For we have nothing more of them, then the dates of their Consecrations and Deaths. The former Consecrated **Sir James Ware de Praesulibus Lagentiae pag. 58.Bishop of Fernose October the 13. 1282. dyed Anno 1304. The later Consecrated 1322. died **Idem p. 59.October the 29. 1346. having first seen his Cathedral Church burnt and destroyed by the Rebells.

WILLIAM le ZOUCH son to—Lord Zouch, was born at Haringworth in this County, as a **Dr. Richard Zouch Professor of Law in Oxsord.branch of thar Honorable Family still alive, and Critical in their Pedigrees, hath credably informed me. From Dean he became Arch-bishop of York 1342.

King Edward the third, going over to France, committed the North to the care of this Prelate. Soon after David King of Scots, with a great Army invaded it; he promised himself Cesars success, to Come and Conquer, See and Subdue. The rather, because he believed, that he floure of the English Chivalry being gone into France, onelyonly Priests and Peasants were left behind. Our Arch-bishop with such forces as he could suddenly provide, bid him Battle at Durham, on Saint Lukes Eve, whereon the Scotch King found such a fast, he had little list to feast the day following, being routed and taken Prisoner. Hence a Poet of that age,

Est pater invictus, sicco de stipite dictus.

p. 284Zouch in French signifying the dry stump of a stick. However his honorable Family flourished as a Green Tree for many years, till withered in our memory, when Edward the last Lord Zouch, dyed without Issue male, in the beginning of King Charles.

To return to our Prelate, he began a beautiful Chappel on the South-side of his Cathedral, intending to be interred therein. But dying before the finishing thereof, was buried before the Altar of Saint Edmund 1352.

ROBERT BRAYBROOKE was born at a Village in this County, well known for the carkase of a Castle therein. He was Consecrated Bishop of London, January 5. 1381. …nd afterwards for six Months, was Chancellour of England. He dyed 1404. being buried under a Marble-stone in the Chappel of Saint Mary. Which is all we can recover of this Prelate, and, if it be enough to satisfie the Readers hunger, he need not leave any thing for manners in the dish.

LIONELL WYDEVILL, or WOODVILL was born at Grafton (since called Grafton honor) in this County, bred in the University of Oxford, whereof, for a time he was Chancellour, then made Bishop of Sarisbury 1482. As he was at first preferred, so his memory is still supported from sinking in Silence, rather by the Buttresses of his great relations, then the foundation of his own deserts. For he was Son to Jaquet Dutchess of Bedford, and Richard Wydevill E. of Rivers, Brother to Elizabeth Q. of England, Brother in-law to King Edward the fourth, Uncle to King Edward the fi…t, and Father (say some) to Stephen Gardiner Bishop of Winchester. Heart-broken with grief, with the Tragedies he beheld in his own family, caused by the cruelty of King Richard the third, he died about the year of our Lord 1484.

Since the Reformation.

JAMES MONTA…UE son to Sir Edward Montague Knight, was born at Boughton in this County, bred in Christs-colledge in Cambridge. He was afterwards Master, or rather Nursing father to Sidney-colledge. For he found it in Bonds to pay 20. Marks per annum to Trinity-colledge, for the ground whereon it is built, and left it free, assigning it a rent for the discharge thereof. When the Kings Ditch in Cambridge made to defend it by its Strength, did in his time offend it with its Stenche, he expended a hundred marks to bring running water into it, to the great conveniency of the University. He was afterwards Bishop first of Bath and VVells, then of VVinchester, being highly in favour with King James, who did ken a man of merrit, as well as any Prince in Christendome. He translated the works of King James into Latine, and improved his greatness to do good offices therewith. He died Anno Domini 1618. and lyeth buried within his fair Monument, within his fairer Monument, I mean a goodly Tombe, in the Church of Bath, which oweth its well being and beauty to his Munificence.

FRANCIS GODWIN son to Thomas Godwin Bishop of Bath and VVells, was born at **Witness himself in his Cat. of Landas.Hanningham in this County, bred in Christs-church in Oxford Doctor of Divinity, and Sub-Dean of Exeter. He was born in the fourth year of the raign of Queen Elizabeth, Anno 1561. and in the fortieth year of his age 1601. by her Majesty made Bishop of Landaffe. A bishoprick better proportioned to his modesty then merits, as which was much impaired by his predecessor, so that one did t…uly say, A **Anthony Kitchin who mard this See with selling and letting long leases.bad Kitching did for ever spoil the good Meat of the Bishops of Landaffe. He was a good Man, grave Divine, skilful Mathematician, pure Latinist, and incomparable Historian. The Church of Landaffe was much beholding to him; yea, the whole Church of England; yea, the whole Church Militant; yea, many now in the Church Triumphant had had their memories utterly lost on Earth, if not preserved by his painfull endeavours in his Catalogue of English Bishops. I am sorry to see that some have since made so bad use of his good labours, who have lighted their Candles from his Torch, thereby meerly to discover the faults of our Bishops, that their Personal failings may be an argument against the Prelatical function. He was translated by King James to the Bishoprick of Hereford, and died very aged in the reign of King Charles Anno Domini 162.

JOHN OWEN was born at Burton- Latimers in this County, his father being the worthy and grave Minister thereof. He was bred a Fellow in Jesus-colledge in Cambridge, p. 285where he commenced Doctor of Divinity, and was Chaplain to King Charles, whilst he was a Prince. A modest man who would not own the worth he had in himself, and therefore others are the more ingaged to give him his due esteem.

In the vacancy of the Bishop wrick of Saint Asaff, King Charles, being much troubled with two Competitours, advanced Doctor Owen (not thinking thereof) as an expedient to end the Contest. Indeed his Majesty was mistaken in his birth, accounting him a Welch-man, but not in his worth, seeing he deserved a far better preferment. Besides he was, though not Ortus, oriundus è Wallia, and by his father (being a Welchman) he was related to all the best families in North-wales. He out-lived his Vote in Parliament, and survived to see all contempt cast on his Order, which he bare with much moderation, and dyed Anno Dom. 164..

ROBERT SKINNER D. D. was born at Pisford in this County, where his father was Minister, bred Fellow of Trinity-colledge in Oxford, afterwards an eminent Preacher in London, and Dean of............ Hence he was preferr'd Bishop of Bristol, and afterwards of Oxford, and is still, and long may he be, living.

States-men.

Sir CHRISTOPHER HATTON was born (I collect at Holdenby) in this County, of a family rather ancient then wealthy, yet of no mean estate. He rather took a bate, then made a meal at the Inns of Court, whilst he studied the Laws therein. He came afterwards to the Court in a mask, where the Queen first took notice of him, loving him well for his handsome dancing, better for his proper person, and best of all for his great abilities. His parts were far above his learning, which mutually so assisted each other, that no manifest want did appear, and the Queen at last preferred him Lord Chancellour of England.

The Gown-men grudging hereat, conceived his advancement their injury, that one not thoroughly bred in the Laws, should be preferred to the place; How could he cure diseases unacquainted with their causes, who might easily mistake the Justice of the Common-law for Rigour, not knowing the true reason thereof. Hereupon it was, that some sullen Serjeants at the first refused to plead before him, until, partly by his power, but more by his prudence, he had convinced them of their errors, and his abilities. Indeed he had one Sir Richard Swale Doctor of the Civil-laws (and that Law some say is very sufficient to dictate equity) his servant-friend, whose advice he followed in all matters of moment.

A scandal is raised, that he was popishly affected, and I cannot blame the Romanists, if desirous to countenan…e their cause with so considerable a person. Yet most …ue it is that his zeal for the discipline of the Church of England gave the first being and life to this report.

**Fragmenta Regalia in his Character.One saith, that he was a meer Vegetable of the Court that sprung up at night, and sunk again at his noon, though indeed he was of longer continuance. Yet it brake his heart, that the Queen (which seldome gave boons, and never forgave due debts,) rigorously demanded the present payment of some arrears, which Sir Christopher did not hope to have remitted, but did onelyonly desire to be forborn; failing herein in his expectation, it went to his heart, and cast him into a mortal disease. The Queen afterwards did endeavour what she could to recover him, bringing as some say cordial broaths unto him with her own hands, but all would not do. Thus no Pullies can draw up a heart once cast down, though a Queen her self should set her hand thereunto. He dyed Anno Domini 1591. and is buried under a stately monument in the Q…ire of Saint Pauls.

Sir WILLIAM FITZ-WILLIAMS born at Milton in this County, married the sister of Sir Henry Sidney Lord Deputy of Ireland. Yea, he himself was **Guil. FitzWilliams jam quintùm Hiberni… Prorex. Camd. Eliz. An. 1587.five times Lord Deputy of that Kingdome, a sufficient evidence of his honesty and ability, seeing Queen Elizabeth never trusted twice, where she was once deceiv'd in a Minister of State. She so preserved him in the power of his place, that sending over Walter Earl of Essex (a person higher in honour) to be Governour of Ulster, it was ordered, that the Earl should take his Commission from the Lord ††Idem Anno 1573.Deputy.

An intelligent **Sir Joh… Davis in his discove…es of Ireland, pag. 257.pen alloweth him serviceable, towards the reduction of that Kingdome, p. 286in two eminent particulars. First, in raising a composition in Mounster, then in setling the possessions of the Lords and Tenants in Monahan, one of the last acts of State (tending to the reformation of the civil government) perform'd in the reign of Queen Elizabeth. His vigilancy was most conspicuous in the Eighty-eight, when the routed Armado in its return, did look, dared not to land in Ireland, except against their wills driven by tempest, when they found the shore worse then the sea unto them. I confess, some **Camden Anno 1588.impute the Irish Rebellion, which afterwards brake out to this Deputies severity, in imprisoning suspected persons for concealing Spanish goods, though this onelyonly gave the Irish a mantle for their intended wickedness. He died Anno Domini 15...

Sir ISAAC WAKE was born in this County, whose father Arthur Wake **So am I informed from Mr. George Wake late Fellow of Magdalen-colledge in Oxford, and his near kinsman.Clerk was Parson of Billing, Master of the Hospital of Saint Johns in Northampton, and Canon of Christs-church, and son to John VVake of Sancy-forrest Esquire, of a most ancient and honorable family. He was bred Fellow of Merton-colledge in Oxford, Proctour and Oratour of that University, he was afterwards Secretary to Sir Dudley Carleton Secretary of State, and from his, was advanced into the Kings Service, and imployed Embassadour to Venice, where he neglected his own commodity, to attend his Majesties imployment, the reason that he died rich onelyonly to his own Conscience. Coming from Venice he was appointed Leiger for France, and designed Secretary of State, had not death prevented him at Paris. He was accomplished with all qualifications requisite for publique Employment, Learning, Languages, Experience, Abilities; and what not?

King Charles hearing of his death, commanded his Corps to be decently brought from Paris into England, allowing the expences for his Funeral, and enjoyning his neerest relations to attend the performance thereof. These accordingly met his body at Bulloin in France, and saw it solemnly conveyed into England, where it was interred in the Chappel of the Castle of Dover, Anno Dom. 16...

Capital Judges and Writers on the Law.

MARTIN de PATESHULL. Let him remain here, till any shall showAMP. me a Town called Pateshulle, in any other County of England; which village in this Shire, gave the name, and afforded the habitation to that ancient **Camd. Brit. in Northamptonshire.family. Though a Clergy-man, he was in the **Sir Hen. Soelmans Gloss. verbo Justitiarius.first of King Henry the third, made Justice of the Lower-…ench or Common-Pleas, wherein he continued for twelve years and upwards, as appeareth by the date of his death, out of an excellent **Florilegus in An. 1226. being the 14. of Hen. 3.Author,

Eodem anno obiit Martinus de Pateshulle, Decanus St. Pauli London. 18. Cal. Decem. vir mirae prudentiae, & Legum Regni peritissimus.

He was the fourth Dean of Saint Pauls, as reckoned up in Bishop Godwin his Catalogue. In that age we see, Clergy men were not onelyonly trusted with the spirit, (I mean the equity) but also with the letter of the Law, being Judges in those Courts, wherein were the most strictest proceedings.

Sir THOMAS de BILLING was born in this County, (where two Villages, his namesakes, near Northampton,) and had his habitation in great state at Ashwell in this Shire. He was made Chief-Justice of the Kings-Bench in the **Sir Hen. Spelman ut prius.sixth, and so continued till the one and twentieth of Edward the fourth, whose lands (and those very large) have since by the **Camd. B…it. in Northamptonshire.Lovels descended to the Shirlies. Nothing else have I to observe of him, save, that he married for his second wife **Stows Surv. of London pag. 519.Mary the daughter and heir of Robert Nesenham of Conington in Huntingtonshire, the Relict of William Cotton, (whose issue possess her inheritance at this day,) and she lieth intomb'd in VVestminster.

Sir WILLIAM CATESBYE was born in this County, where his family long flourished at Asby Saint Leger. He was first advanced by VVilliam Lord Hastinges, by whose countenance he came to the notice, then favour of Richard the third, though ill requiting it, when betraying him, who caused his preferment. Take his character (transcribing in this kind, is safer then inditing) from an **Sir T. More Printing the continuation of J. … Chron fol. 56.Author above exception.

p. 287This Catesbye was a man well learned in the Laws of this Land, and surely great pity it was that he had not had more truth, or less wit.

If any object, that being neither Lord Chief-Justice, Chief-Baron, nor any VVriter on the Law. He falleth not under my Pen, by the Charter of Method prefixed to this Catalogue, know that though formerly none, he was eminently all Officers, in every Court of Judicature, all the Judges shaking at his displeasure. Witness the Libel which Collingborn made, and which cost him his life for the same.

The **Ratli…fe.Rat, and the **Catesby.Cat, and Lovel the Dog,

Do govern all England under the **K. Rich. the third who gave a Boar for his Crest.Hog.

The time of his death is uncertain, but, because we find him not molested in the raign of King Henry the seventh, (which had he survived, surely had happened) it is probable he died before his Patron and Preferrer, King Richard the third.

Sir RICHARD EMPSON. It is pity to part them, seeing Empson may be called the Catesbye to King Henry the seventh, as Catesbye the Empson to King Richard the third; both Country-men, eminent for having, odious for abusing their skill in Law; active for the Prince, injurious to the people. This Sir Richard was Chancellour of the Dutchy of Lancaster, and from a Sieve-makers son, (at Towceter in this County where he was born) came to sift the estates of the most wealthy men in England.

For King Henry the seventh, vexed that he had refused Columbus his profer, (whereby the VVest-Indies being found out fortunately, fell to Ferdinand King of Spain,) resolved to discover Indies in England, and to this purpose made Empson Promotor General, to press the Penal-Statutes all over the land.

Impowred hereby, this prolling Knight did grind the faces of rich and poor, bringing the grist thereof to the King, and keeping the toll thereof to himself, whereby he advanced a vast estate, which now, with his name, is reduced to nothing. He united the two houses of York and Lancaster in the Kings Coffers, taking no notice of parties or persons, for their former good service, but making all equally obnoxious to fines and forfeitures. But in the beginning of the reign of King Henry the eight, he was arraigned, condemed and beheaded, August the 17. 1510. Say not that Princes, if sacrificing their Ministers to popular fury, will want persons faithfully to serve them, seeing such exemplary justice will rather fright Officers from false disserving them; for in fine, no real profit can redoun to the Soveraign, which resulteth from the ruine of his Subjects.

I must not forget how there was an old man in VVarwickshire, accounted very judicious in Judicial Astrology, of whom Sir Richard Empson (then in his prime) did scoffingly demand, VVhen the Sun would Change, to whom the old man replyed, Even when such a wicked **Camdens remains.Lawyer as you go to Heaven. But we leave him to stand and fall to his own Master, and proceed.

EDWARD MONTAGUE son of Thomas Montague, born at Brigstocke in this County, was bred in the Inner-Temple, in the study of the Laws, until his ability and integrity, advanced him Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench, in the thirtieth of Henry the eight. He gave for his Motto, Equitas Justiae Norma. And although equity seemeth rather to resent of the Chancery, then the Kings-Bench, yet the best justice will be worm-wood without a mixture thereof. In his Times, though the golden showers of Abby-lands rained amongst great men, it was long before he would open his lap (scrupling the acception of such gifts) and at last received but little in proportion to others of that age.

In the thirty seventh of King Henry the eight, he was made Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas, a descent in honor, but ascent in profit, it being given to old age, rather to be thrifty then ambitious.

In drawing up the Will of King Edward the sixt, and setling the Crown on the Lady Jane, for a time, he swam against the tide and torrent of Duke Dudley, till at last, he was carried away with the stream, as in our Church History, is largely related.

p. 288Outed of his Judges Office in the first of Queen Mary, he returned into Northamptonshire, and what contentment he could not find in VVestminster-hall, his Hospital-hall at Boughton afforded unto him. He died Anno 1556. and lieth buried in the ParishChurch of VVeekely.

Sir AUGUSTIN NICOLLS Son to Thomas Nicolls, Serjeant at Law, was born at Eckton in this County. Now, though according to the rigor of our Fundamental Premises, he cometh not within our Cognizance under this Title, yet his merit will justifie us in presenting his Character.

He was bred in the study of the Common-law, wherein he attained to such knowledge, that Queen Elizabeth made him a, King James his own, Serjeant; whence he was freely preferred one of the Judges of the Common-Pleas. I say freely, King James commonly calling him the Judge that would give no money. Not to speak of his moral qualifications, and subordinate abilities; He was renowned for his special Judiciary Endowments; Patience to hear both parties all they could say, a happy memory, a singular sagacity to search into the material circumstances, exemplary integrity, even to the rejection of gratuities after judgment given.

His forbearing to travail on the Lords▪ day, wrought a reformation on some of his own Order. He loved plain and profitable Preaching, being wont to say, I know not what you call Puritanical Sermons, but they come neerest to my Conscience.

The speech of Caesar is commonly known, Oportet Imperatorem stantem mori, which Bishop Jewell altered and applyed to himself, Decet Episcopum concionantē mori; of this man it may be said, Judex mortuus est jura dans, dying in his calling, as he went the Northern Circuit, and hath a fair Monument in Kendall-church in Westmerland.

Sir ROBERT DALLINGTON Knight, was born at Geddington in this County, bred a Bible-clerk (as I justly collect) in Bennet-colledge, and after became a School-master in Northfolk. Here having gained some money, he travailed over all France and Italy, being exact in his observations, and was after his return Secretary to Francis Earl of Rutland. He had an excellent wit and judgement, witness his most acurate Aporismes on Tacitus. At last he was Knighted and preferred Master of the Charter-house, where the**Dr. Gray. School-master at his first entering, wellcomed him with a Speech in Latine verse, spoken by a School-boy, but sure he was more then a Boy who indited it. It is hard to say, whether Sir Robert was more pleased or displeased with the last Distick therein,

Partem oneris vestri minimā ne despice, curam

Nec Pueros itcrum tedeat esse tuam.

Do not the least part of your trust disdain,

Nor grudge of Boys to take the care again.

He lived to be a very aged man past seventy six, and died Anno Domini 162.▪

JOHN FLETCHER Son of Richard Fletcher D. D. was (as by proportion of time is collectible) born in this County, before his Father was Bishop of Bristol or London, and whilst as yet he was Dean of Peterborough. He had an excellent wit, which the back-friends to Stage-plays will say, was neither idle, nor well imploy'd. For he and Francis Beaumont Esquire, like Castor and Pollux, (most happy when in conjunction) raised the English, to equal the Athenian and Roman Theater; Beaumont bringing the ballast of judgement, Fletcher the sail of phantasie, both compounding a Poet to admiration.

Meeting once in a Tavern, to contrive the rude draught of a Tragedy, Fletcher undertook to kill the King therein, whose words being over-heard by a listener (though his Loyalty not to be blamed herein) he was accused of High Treason, till the mistake soon appearing, that the plot was onelyonly against a Drammatick and Scenical King, all wound off in merriment.

Nor could it be laid to Fletcher's charge, what**Ovid Metam. lib. 13. Ajax doth to Ulysses.

Nihil hic Diomede remoto.

When Diomede was gone,

He could do nought alone.

For surviving his partner, he wrote good Comedies himself, though inferiour to the former; and no wonder, if a single thread was not so strong as a twisted one. He p. 289died (as I am inform'd) in London of the plague in the first of King Charles, 1625.

Sir HENRY MONTAGUE Knight, third son to Sir Edward Montague Knight, grand-child to Sir Edward Montague Knight, Lord Chief-Justice of the Kings-bench, was born at Boughton in this County. One skilful in mysterious arts, beholding him when a School-boy, foretold that by the pregnancy of his parts, he would raise himself above the rest of his family, which came to pass accordingly. He was bred first in Christs-colledge in Cambridge, then in the Middle-Temple, where he attained to great learning in the Laws, and passed through many preferments, viz.

1. Sergeant at Law.

2. Knighted by King James, July 22. 1602.

3. Recorder of London.

4. Lord Chief-Justice of the KingsBench, November 18. 1616.

5. Lord Treasurer of England, Decem. 16. 1620.

6. Baron of Kimbolton.

7. Viscount Mandevile.

8. President of the Council, Septem. 29. 1621.

9. Earl of Manchester.

10. Lord Privy-Seal.

He wisely perceiving, that Courtiers were but as counters in the hands of Princes, raised and depress'd in valuation at pleasure, was contented rather to be set for a smaller sum, then to be quite put up into the box. Thus in point of place and preferment, being pleased to be what the King would have him, (according to his Motto, Movendo non mutando me,) he became almost what he would be himself, finaly advanced to an Office of great honour. When Lord Privy-Seal, he brought the Court of Requests into such repute, that what formerly was called the Almes-basket of the Chancery, had in his time well nigh as much meat in, and guests about it, (I mean Suits and Clients) as the Chancery it self. His meditations on Life and Death, written in the time of his health, may be presumed to have left good impressions on his own soul, preparatory for his dissolution, which happened 164..

Writers.

JOHN of NORTHAMPTON, in Latine Johannes Avonius, was born in the Town of Northampton, in ipso Insulae umbilico, (saith **Cen. 5. Num. 75.Bale) and is not mistaken in his proportion. This mindeth me of a village in this County, sufficiently known, commonly call'd Navesby, whose Orthography Criticks will have Navelsby, as in the middle of England. This John became a Carmelite in his native Town, and so addicted himself to the Study of Mathematicks, that he became one of the most eminent in that age, for practical experiments. He was Author of a work which he called The Philosophers Ring. This was not like The Philosophers Stone, a thing meerly imaginary, nor yet was it a work of the Cyclopedy of Arts, (as the sound may seem to import,) but it was in plain truth a perpetual Almanack. I say Almanack, which word though many make of Arabick extraction, a great**Vestegan of decayed intelligence, p. 58. Antiquary will have it derived from the Dutch, Al-mon-aght, that is to say, Al-mon-heed, the regard or observation of all Moons. However this work of John was beheld as a Master-piece of that age, and since commented upon by other Writers. He flourished Anno Domini 1340.

ROBERT HOLCOT was born in a**Camden. Brit. in No…thamptonshire. Village of this County so named, bred in the University of Oxford, and afterwards became a Dominican in Northampton. A deep Scholar, and yet commended to be prudent in **Bale de script. Brit. Cent. 5. Num. 8.Num 8rebus agendis, and accounted one of the greatest School-men in that age. Nor, was he onelyonly a Candle, or domestick light, confin'd within the walls of his own Country, but his learning was a publick Luminary to all Christendome, as appears by the praise which**De script. Eccles. sol. 136. Trithemius bestoweth upon him;

Vir in Divinis Scripturis eruditissimus, & secularium literarum non ignarus; ingenio praestans, & clarus eloquio, declamator quoque sermonem egregius Scripsit multa praeclara opuscula, quibus nomen suum posteris notificavit.

p. 290He died at Northampton of the plague Anno 1349, before he had finished his Lectures on the seventh of Ecclesiastes. I say of the plague, which at that time so raged in England, that our**Stows Ann. p. 245. Chroniclers affirm, scarce a tenth person of all sorts was left alive. Insomuch, that the Churches and Church-yards in London not sussicing for their interments, a new Church-yard was Consecrated in West-smithfield, wherein**Idem ibidem. fifty thousand were buried, who at that time died of the pestilence.

ROBERT DODFORD was born in a Village so called in this County, (where the Wirlyes, Gentlemen of good account, have long had their habitation) so named as I take it, from a Ford over the river Avon, and Dods Water-weeds, (commonly called by children Cats Tales) growing thereabouts. He was bred a Benedictine Monke in the Abby of Ramsey, and applied himself to the Study of the**Bale de script. Brit. Cent. 4. Num. 41. Hebrew Tongue, wherewith the Library (of which he was Keeper) in that Convent did much abound. He wrote Postills on the Proverbs, and other Sermons, which the envy of time hath intercepted …rom us. He is said to have flourished about the year 1370. by Bale, though Pitz, (on what account I know not) maketh him more ancient by an hundred years.

PETER PATESHULL was no doubt born in that Village not far from Northampton, bred a Augustinian in Oxford, however falling afterwards into some dislike of his Order, he procured from Walter Dysse (Legate, to Pope Urbane the sixth) a Dispensation to relinquish it, and was made the Popes Honorary Chaplain. Afterwards, by often reading the works of Wickliffe (but especially his**Idem Cent. 7. Num. 2.Num 2 book of Real Universals) he became of his judgement, and after the death of Wickliffe, preached and promoted his doctrine; he wrote an Exposition of the Prophesie of Hildegardes, (a Stinging Comment on a Netling Text,) and so taxed the pride and lasiness of all Friers, that his book was burnt by command from the Pope, and the Writer thereof had been burnt also, had he no… seasonably secured himself by his flight be…ond the Seas.

This mindeth me of a passage of a Frier, who burned a book of Peter Ramus, after the death of the Author thereof, and then, and there used this Distick, in some imitation of Ovid,

Parve nec invideo (sine me) Liber ibis in Ignem, Hei mihi quod Domino non licet ire tuo.

Small Book, thy fate I envy not,

(Without me) feel the Flame;

O had it been thy Masters lot,

He might have felt the Same.

But our Pateshull was out of retch in Bohemia, betwixt which and England, a great intercourse in that age, since King Richard the second had married a Sister of Wincelaus King of Bohemia. We behold him as an advancer of Wicklivisme in that Country, for which John Husse and Hierome of Prague were afterwards condemned. He flourished in the year of our Lord 1390.

Since the Reformation.

ROBERT CROWLEY was born in this**Idem Cent. 9. Num. 80. County, bred Master of Arts in Magdalen-colledge in Oxford. It happ'ned that one Miles Hogheard, whom**De Ang. script. 1556. Pitz maketh a learned Writer, and intituleth him, Virum doctum, ptum, & in fide Catholica mirè zelosum, (though in Master Fox it appeareth by his own confession, that he was but an Hosier in London,) wrote railing books against the poor Protestants. Our Crowley took him to task, and confuted him in several Treatises. Under Queen Mary he fled over to Frankford, and returning, under Queen Elizabeth was made Vicar of Saint Giles without Cripple gate London, where he lieth buried under a fair plated stone in the …hancel. He died**Stows Su…v. of London p. 313. on the 18. of June 1588.

EUSEBIUS PAGET was born at …ranford in this County, …as Master Ephraim Paget, …is aged son, late Minister of St. Edmond the King Lombard street, hath informed me. He was admitted at twelve years of age into Oxford, where, when a boy, he**As his said son related to me. brake his right-arme with carrying the Pax, though surely some casualty beside so light a weight concurred thereunto. He was commonly called the golden Sophister, and yet he proved no leaden Graduate. Many years he was a painful Minister in London, and was Author of that excellent book called the History of the Bible, and Ca…echisme of The fourty short questions, which hath done as much good to p. 291nn▪ book learn'd people, as any of that kind. The certain date of his death I cannot attain.

JOHN PRESTON D. D. was born at Heyford in this County, bred in Queenscolledge in Cambridge, whose life (interwoven much with Church and State matters) is so well written by his Pupill Master Thomas Ball, that all additions thereunto, may seem carrying of Coals to New-castle. However, seeing he who carrieth Char-coal, (a different kind from the native Coal of that place,) may meet with a Chapman there, on the same confidence a word or two of this Doctor.

Before he Commenced Master of Arts, he was so far from Eminency, as but a little above Contempt; Thus the most generous Wines are the most muddy, before they are fine. Soon after his skill in Phylosophy, rendred him to the general respect of the University.

He was the greatest Pupil-monger in England in mans memory, having sixteen Fellow-Commoners (most heirs to fair estates) admitted in one year in Queens-colledge, and provided convenient accommodations for them. As VVilliam the Popular Earl of Nassaw, was said to have won a Subject from the King of Spain, to his own party, every time he put off his Hat; so was it commonly said in the Colledge, that every time, when Master Preston plucked off his Hat, to Doctor Davenant the ColledgeMaster, he gained a Chamber or Study for one of his Pupils. Amongst whom one Chambers a Londoner, (who dyed very young) was very eminent for his learning.

Being chosen Master of Emanuell-colledge, he removed thither with most of his Pupills, and I remember, when it was much admired, where all these should find lodgings in that Colledge, which was so full already, Oh! (said one) Master Preston will carry Chambers along with him.

The Party called Puritan, then being most active in Parliament, and Doctor Preston most powerful with them, the Duke rather used, then loved him, to work that Party to his complyance. Some thought the Doctor was unwilling to do it, and no wonder he effected not, what he affected not; others thought he was unable, that Party being so diffusive, and then, in their designs (as since in their practices) divided. However, whilst any hope, none but Doctor Preston with the Duke, set by and extolled, and afterwards, set by and neglected, when found useless to the intended purpose. In a word, my worthy friend fitly calls him, the Court Coment, blazing for a time, and faiding soon afterwards.

He was a perfect Politician, and used (lapwing like) to flutter most on that place, which was furthest from his Eggs, exact at the concealing of his intentions, with that simulation, which some make to lye in the Marches of things lawful and unlawfull. He had perfect command of his passion, with the Caspian Sea, never ebbing nor flowing, and would not alter his compos'd pase for all the whipping, which Satyrical w…ts bestowed upon him. He never had wife, or cure of souls, and leaving a plentifull, no invidious estate, died Anno Domini 1628. July 20. Pass we now from one, who was all judgement and gravity, to an other, (place and time making the connexion) who was all wit and festivity, viz.

THOMAS RANDOLPH born at Houghton in this County, was first bred in Westminster-school, then Fellow in Trinity-colledge in Cambridge. The Muses may seem not onelyonly to have smiled, but to have been tickled at his nativity, such the festivity of his Poems of all sorts. But my declining age being superannuated, to meddle with such ludicrous matters, configneth the censure and commendation of his Poems (as also of his Country-man Peter Haulsted, born at Oundle in this County,) to younger Pens, for whom it is most proper. Master Randolph died Anno Dom. 163.

NICHOLAS ESTWICK B. D. was born at Harowden (the Baronny of the Lord Vaux) in this County. A solid Protestant, to counterpoise Kellison a violent Papist, and native of the same Village. He was bred Fellow of Christs-colledge in Cambridge, being there beheld as a pious and judicious Divine, always cheerful without the least levity, and grave without any morosness. He was afterwards presented by the Lord Montague, Parson of Warton, where he lived a painful Preacher 40. years, less then a Deacon in his humility, and more then an Arch bishop in his own contentment. Hence he was [unwillingly willing] preferred by the Earl of Rutland to Botsworth in Lecestershire, where he had hardly inned one harvest, before, like a ripe Sheaf, he was brought p. 292into the Barn of the grave. Thus though young Trees are meliorated with transplanting, yet old ones seldome live, and never flourish after their removal. Let his works witness the rest of his worth, some of whose books are published, others prepared for the Press, and I wish them a happy nativity, for the publique good. Coming to take his Farewell of his friends, he Preached on the Fore-noon, of the Lords-day, sickned on the After-noon, and was buried with his wife, in the same grave, in Warton Chancell, the week following 1657.

Romish Exile Writers.

MATTHEW KELLISON was born in this **Pitz. p. 811.County at Harrowden, his father being a Servant and Tenant of the Lord Vaux, in whose family his infancy did suck in the Romish Perswasions. He afterwards went beyond the Seas, and was very much in motion.

1. He first fixed himself at the Colledge of Rhemes in France.

2. Thence removed to the English-colledge at Rome, where he studied in Phylosophy and Divinity.

3. Returned to Rhemes, where he took the Degree of Doctor.

4. Removed to Doway, where for many years he read School-Divinity.

5. Re-returned to Rhemes, where he became Kings Professor, and Rector of the University.

So much for the travails of his Feet; now for the labours of his Hands, (the pains of his Pen) those of his own opinion can give the best account of them. He wrote a book to King James; which his Majesty never saw, and another against Sutliff, with many more, and was living 1611.

Benefactors to the Publick.

HENRY CHICHELY Son of Thomas and Agnes Chichely, was born at Higham-Ferrers in this County, bred in Oxford, and designed by Wickham himself (yet surviving) to be one of the Fellows of New-colledge; he afterwards became Chaplain to R. Metford Bishop of Sarum, who made him Arch-Deacon, which he exchanged for the Chancelours place of that Cathedral. This Bishop at his death made him his chief Executor, and bequeathed him a fair gilt Cup for a Legacy. By King Henry the fourth, he was sent to the Council of Risa, 1409. and by the Popes own hands was Consecrated Bishop of Saint Davids at Vienna, and thence was advanced Arch-bishop of Canterbury, by King Henry the fifth.

During his reign in the Parliament at Leicester, a shrude thrust was made at all Abbies, not with a R…bated point, but with sharps indeed, which this Arch-bishop as a skilful Fencer fairly put by, though others will say he guarded that blow with a silver Buckler; the Clergy paying to the King, vast sums of money, to maintain his Wars in France, and so made a forreign diversion for such active spirits, which otherwise in all probability would have Antidated the dissolution of Monasteries.

Under King Henry the sixth he sat sure in his See, though often affronted by the rich Cardinal Beaufort of Winchester, whom he discreetly thanked for many injuries. A Cardinals Cap was proferred to, and declined by him, some putting the refusal on the account of his humility, others of his pride, (loath to be junior to the foresaid Cardinal) others of his policy, unwilling to be more engaged to the Court of Rome. Indeed he was thorough-paced in all Spiritual Popery which concerned religion; (which made him so cruel against the VVicklevites,) but in secular Popery, (as I may term it, touching the interest of Princes) he did not so much as rack, and was a zealous assertor of the English Liberties against Romish Usurpation.

Great his zeal to promote learning, as appears by three Colledges erected and endowed at his expence and procurement.

1. One with an Hospital for the poor at Higham-Ferrers the place of his Nativity.

p. 2932. Saint Bernards in Oxford, afterwards altered and bettered by Sir Thomas VVhite into Saint Johns colledge.

3. All-souls in Oxford, the fruitful Nursery of so many Learned Men.

He continued in his Arch-bishoprick (longer then any of his Predecessors for 500. years) full 29. years, and died April 12. 1443.

WILLIAM LAXTON Son to John Laxton of Oundle in this County, was bred a Grocer in London, where he so prospered by his painful endeavours, that he was chosen Lord Mayor, Anno Domini 1544. He founded a fair School and Almeshouse at Oundle in this County, with convenient maintenance, well maintained at this day, by the Worshipful Company of Grocers, and hath been to my knowledge the Nursery of many Scholars, most eminent in the University. These Latine Verses are inscribed in the Front of the building.

Oundellae natus, Londini parta labore,

Laxtonus posuit Senibus p…erisque levamen.

At Oundle born, what he did get

In London with great pain,

Laxton to young and old hath set

A comfort to remain.

He died Anno Domini 1556. the 29. of July, and lyeth buried under a fair Tombe in the Chancel of Saint Antonies London.

Since the Reformation.

NICHOLAS LATHAM was born at **So saith the Inscription on his Monument.Brigtock in this County, and afterwards became Minister of Al-saints Church in Barn-wells. This man had no considerable Estate left him from his father, nor eminent addition of wealth from his friends, nor injoyed any Dignity in the Church of England, nor ever held more then one moderate Benefice. And yet by Gods blessing on his vivacious frugality he got so great an Estate, that he told a friend he could have left his son, had he had one, land to the value of five hundred pounds by the year. But though he had no Issue, yet making the Poor his heirs, he left the far greatest part of his Estate to pious uses; Founded several small Schools with salaries in Country Villages, and Founded a most beautiful Almes-house at Oundale in this County; and I could wish that all houses of the like nature, were but continued and ordered, so well as this is, according to the Will of the Founder. He died Anno Domini 1620. and lyeth buried in the Chancel of his own Parish, having lived 72. years.

EDWARD MONTAGUE Baron of Boughton, and eldest son to Sir Edward Montague Knight, was born in this County, a Pious, Peaceable, and Hospitable Patriot. It was not the least part of his outward happiness, that having no male issue by his first wife, and marrying when past fifty years of age, he lived to see his son inriched with hopeful children. I behold him, as bountiful **2 Sam. 19. 35.2 Sam 19:35Barsillai, superannuated for courtly pleasures, and therefore preferring to live honorably in his own Country, wherein he was generally beloved, so that popularity may be said to have affected him, who never affected it. For in evidence of the vanity thereof, he used to say, Do the common sort of people nineteen courtesies together, and yet you may loose their love, if you do but go over the stile before them. He was a bountiful Benefactor to Sidney-colledge, and builded and endowed an Almes-house at VVeekley in this County.

**Psal. 73. 4.Ps 73:4To have no bands in their death, is an outward favour many VVicked have, many Godly men want, amongst whom, this good Lord, who dyed in restraint in the Savoy, on the account of his Loyalty to his Sovereign. Let none grudge him the injoying of his judgement, a purchase he so dearly bought, and truly paid for, whose death happened in the year of our Lord, 164..

Memorable Persons.

There is a Memorial entred on the Wall of the Cathedral of Peterburough, for one, who being Sexton thereof, interred two Queens therein, [Katharine Dowager, and Mary of Scotland,] more then fifty years interceeding betwixt their several sepultures: p. 294This vivacious Sexton also buried two generations, or the people in that place twice over. Thus having built many houses (so I find Graves frequently called Domus Aeternales) for others, some (as it was fitting) performed this last office unto him. Thus though Sextons often meet with bad savours arising from Corps too much, (or rather too little) corrupted, yet is the instance of his long life aleadged, by such who maintain, that the smelling to perfect mold made of mens consumed bodies is a preservative of life.

Lord Mayors.

Reader, this is one of the twelve Counties, whose Gentry were not returned into the Tower in the reign of King Henry the sixth.

Sheriffs of Northampton.

HEN. II.

Anno 1

Rich. Basset, & Albrus de Vere

Anno 2

Simon. filius Petri

Anno 3

Idem.

Anno 4

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

Anno 7

Idem.

Anno 8

Hugo. Gubion

Anno 9

Idem.

Anno 10

Simon. filius Petri, & Hugo. Gubion

Anno 11

Simon. for 5 years.

Anno 16

Rob. filius Gawini, for 5 years.

Anno 21

Hugo. de Gundevill

Anno 22

Idem.

Anno 23

Idem.

Anno 24

Tho filius Bernardi, for 6 years.

Anno 30

Tho. & Rad. Morin

Anno 31

Galfr. filius Petri

Anno 32

Idem.

Anno 33

Idem.

RICH. I.

Anno 1

Gal. filius Petri

Anno 2

Rich. Engaigne

Anno 3

Idem.

Anno 4

Gal. filius Petri, & Rob. filius Radulp.

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

Gal. & Simon. de Patishull

Anno 7

Simon. de Patishull, for 4 years.

JOH. REG.

Anno 1

Simon. Patishull, for 5 years.

Anno 6

Rob. de Sancei, & Hen. filius Petri.

Anno 7

Idem.

Anno 8

Pet. de Stores, & Gilb. Groc.

Anno 9

Wal. de Preston, & Joh. de Ulcot. ut Custos

Anno 10

Walt. de Preston ut Custos

Anno 11

Rob. de Braybrook ut Custos

Anno 12

Rob. ut Custos

Anno 13

Rob. & Hen. fil. ejus.

Anno 14

Hen. Braybrook ut Custos

Anno 15

Rob. & Hen. ut Custos

Anno 16

Hen. de Braybrook ut Custos

Anno 17

Idem.

HEN. III.

Anno 1

Falc. de Breantre, & Rad. de Bray, for 8 years.

Anno 9

Rad. de Trublevil, & Rad. Washingbury, for 4 years.

Anno 13

Stehp. de Segne, & Will. de Marawast, for 6 years.

Anno 19

Hen. de Rada, for 5 years.

Anno 25

Will. de Coleworth

Anno 26

Idem.

Anno 27

Alan. de Maidwell, for 6 years.

Anno 33

Simon. de Thorp

Anno 34

Idem.

Anno 35

Rob. Bassett

Anno 36

Idem.

Anno 37

Will. de Insula.

Anno 38

Hugo. de Manneby

Anno 39

Idem.

Anno 40

Will. de Insula

Anno 41

Hugo. de Manneby

Anno 42

Idem.

Anno 43

Eustacius de Watford

Anno 44

Simon. de Patishull

Anno 45

Idem.

Anno 46

Idem.

Anno 47

Alanus de Tash

Anno 48

Alanus de Insh

Anno 49

Idem.

Anno 50

Idem.

Anno 51

Warin. de Basingburn, & Joh. de Oxenden Clic.

Anno 52

Joh. de Moyne, & Nich. de Maunden.

Anno 53

Idem.

Anno 54

Idem.

Anno 55

Will. de Boyvill

EDW. I.

Anno 1

Will. de Bowvill

Anno 2

Gilb. de Kirkby, for 5 years.

Anno 7

Tho. de Arden

Anno 8

Rob. de Band

Anno 9

Rob. de Band in Charta quidem Asp. H. for 9 years.

p. 295Anno 18

Joh. Druell, for 12 years.

Anno 30

Rob. de Veer

Anno 31

Joh. de Ashton, for 5 years.

EDW. II.

Anno 1

Anno 2

Almaric. de Nodardus, & Simon. de Greenhull

Anno 3

Joh. de Willoughby

Anno 4

Idem.

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

Gal. de Bradden

Anno 7

Tho. Wale

Anno 8

Eustac. de Barnby

Anno 9

Joh. de Ashton

Anno 10

Joh. de Hoby

Anno 11

Joh. de Honby

Anno 12

Joh. & Egid. de Cugelio

Anno 13

Joh. de Honby Egid. de Cugelio, & Joh. de Wittebur Egid. de Cugegio, & Joh. de Wittlebur

Anno 14

Hum. de Basingburne, & Joh. Sto. Mauro

Anno 15

Hum. Basingburne

Anno 16

Anno 17

Joh. de Sto. Mauro, & Joh. Daundelin

Anno 18

Joh. & Joh.

Anno 19

Joh. Daudelin

EDW. III.

Anno 1

Will. de Sto. Mauro, & Simon. de Lanshall

Anno 2

Will. de Sto. Mauro

Anno 3

Tho. Wake

Anno 4

Idem.

Anno 5

Tho. de Buckton

Anno 6

Idem.

Anno 7

Will. Lovell, for 4 years.

Anno 11

Tho. Wake

Anno 12

Idem.

Anno 13

Tho. Wake de Blisworth

Anno 14

Idem.

Anno 15

Idem.

Anno 16

Tho. de Babenham

Anno 17

Tho. de Buckton

Anno 18

Rob. Pandeley

Anno 19

Idem.

Anno 20

Idem.

Anno 21

Walt. Parles

Anno 22

Idem.

Anno 23

Rich. Blundel

Anno 24

Idem.

Anno 25

Pet. Mallore

Anno 26

Walt. Parles

Anno 27

Idem.

Anno 28

Idem.

Anno 29

Joh. de Kaynes, for 4 years.

Anno 33

Andre. Landwath

Anno 34

Walt. Parles

Anno 35

Rich. Wydevill, for 8 years.

Anno 43

Tho. de Preston

Anno 44

Idem.

Anno 45

Rich. Wydenell

Anno 46

Rob. Hotot

Anno 47

Simon. Ward

Anno 48

Joh. Karnell

Anno 49

Tho. de Preston

Anno 50

Rob. Poterleyn

Anno 51

Joh. Karnell

Sheriffs of Northampton-shire.

HENRY the Sixth.

16 RICHARD WIDEWILL, aliàs WODEVILL.]

He was a vigorous Knight, and married Jaquet Dutchess of Bedford, of most antient extraction in this County, which (as it appears in the leigder Book of Sipwell Abby) had flourished four generations before him at Grafton-honor in this County. Malicious therefore the cavil of Richard Duke of York, (which the Stage Poet hath got by the end,) affirming, that they were made noble, who were not worth a Noble, when this Knight was by his Son-in-law King Edward the fourth, Created Earl of Rivers; and although his Issue-male failed in the next generation, yet am I confident, that besides the apparent Royal loine, an ordinary Herauld, may with little pains, derive all the ancient Nobility of England from his six daughters, most honorably married.

23 HENRY GREEN.]

He was a very wealthy man (but of a different family from those of Greens-Norton, as appears by his Armes,) who first built the fair House of Draiton in this County. He had one sole daughter and heir Constance, married to John Stafford Earl of Wiltshire, p. 298to whom she bare Edward Stafford Earl of Wiltshire, who died without Issue; so that her large inheritance devolved unto the family of the Veers; of whom **In the 1 of K. Henryanon.

HENRY the Seventh.

1 HENRY VEER, Ar.]

He was son to Richard Veer Esquire, of Addington, by Isabel his wife, sister and [at last] sole heir to Henry Green of Drayton Esquire, of whom **In 23. of Henry 6.formerly. This Henry was afterwards Knighted, and dying without Issue-male, Elizabeth his daughter and co▪ heir was married to John first Lord Mordant, to whom she brought Draiton-house in this County, and other fair lands, as the partage of her portion.

NICHOLAS VAUX, Mil.]

He was a jolly Gentleman, both for Camp and Court, a great Reveller, good as well in a March as a Masque, being Governour of Guines in Picardie, whom King Hen. the eight, for his Loyalty and Valour, Created Baron of Harouden in this County, Ancestor to Edward Lord Vaux now living.

This Sir Nicholas, when young, was the greatest Gallant of the English-Court; no Knight, at the marriage of Prince Arthur, appearing in so costly an equipage; when he wore a gown of purple velvet, pight with pieces of gold, so thick and massive, that it was valued (besides the silk and furs) at **Stows Chro. p. 483.a thousand pounds, and the next day wore a Colar of S. S. which weighed (as Goldsmiths reported) eight hundred pounds of nobles.

Some will wonder, that Empson and Dudley (the Royal Promoters then in prime) did not catch him by the Collar, or pick an hole in his Gown, upon the breach of some rusty penal sumptuary Statute; the rather, because lately the Earl of Oxford was heavily fined for supernumerous attendance. But know, that King Henry could better bear with … ▪ then greatness in his Subjects, especially, when such expence cost …imself nothing, and conduced much to the solemnity of his Sons Nuptials. Besides, such plate, as wrought, employed Artizans, as massive, retain'd its intrinsecal value, with little loss, either of the owners, or Common-wealth.

HENRY the Eight.

1 THOMAS PAR, Mil.]

His former residence was at Kendal-Castle in Westmerland, whence he removed into this Country, having married Maud, one of the daughters and co-heirs of Sir Thomas Green of **Mills in Cat. of Honour p. 1026.Green-Norton. He was father to Queen Katharine Par, (which rendereth a probability of her nativity in this County) and to William Marquiss of Northampton; of whom hereafter.

15 WILLIAM FITZ-WILLIAMS Sen. Mil.]

This must be the person of whom I read this memorable passage, in **Pag. 89.Stows Survey of London.

Sir William Fitz-Williams the elder, being a Merchant-Taylor, and servant sometime to Cardinal Wolsey, was chosen Alderman of Bread-street-Ward in London, Anno 1506. Going afterward to dwell at Milton in Northamptonshire, in the fall of the Cardinal, his former Master, he gave him kind entertainment there, at his house in the Country. For which deed, being called before the King, and demanded how he durst entertain so great an Enemy to the State; his Answer was that he had not contemptuously or wilfully done it, but onelyonly, because he had been his Master, and (partly) the means of his greatest fortunes. The King was so well pleased with his Answer, that saying, himself had few such servants, immediately Knighted him, and afterwards made him a Privy Counsellour.

But we have formerly spoken of the benefactions of this worthy Knight in the County of Essex, whereof he was Sheriffe in the sixth of King Henry the eight. p. 29917 WILLIAM PAR, Mil.]

I have cause to be confident, that this was he who being Uncle and Lord Chamberlain to Queen Katharine Par, was afterwards by King Henry the eight, Created Baron Par of Horton. Left two daughters onelyonly, married into the Families of Tressame and Lane. The Reader is requested to distinguish him from his Name-sake Nephew, Sheriffe in the 25. of this Kings reign; of whom hereafter.

21 JOHN CLARKE, Mil.]

I find there was one Sir John Clarke Knight, who in the fifth of Henry the eight, at the Siege of Terrowane took prisoner Lewis de Orleans, Duke of Longevile, and Marquiss of Rotueline. This Sir John bare, for his paternal Coat, Argent on a Bend Gules, three Swans proper, between as many Pellets.

But afterwards, in memory of his service aforesaid, by special **Gwil. d…spla. Herald pag. 2 Edition. ….command from the King, his Coat armour was rewarded with a Canton Sinister Azure, and thereupon a Demi-ramme mounting Argent, armed Or, between two Flowers de lices in Chief of the last, over all a Batune dexter-ways Argent, as being the Arms of the Duke his prisoner, and by Martial-law belonging to him.

He lieth buried in the next County, viz. in the Church of Tame in Oxfordshire, where his Coat and cause thereof is expressed on his Monument. If this be not the same with Sir John Clarke our Sheriffe, I am utterly at a loss, and desire some others courteous direction.

All I will adde is this; If any demand why this Knight did onelyonly give a parcel, and not the entire Arms of the Duke his prisoner, a learned **Camd. in rem.Antiquary returns this satisfactory answer, That he who …aketh a Christian Captive is to give but part of his Arms, (to mind him of charitable moderation in using his success) intimating withall, that one taking a Pagan prisoner, may justifie the bearing of his whole Coat by the laws of Armory.

I must not conceal that I have read in a most excellent Manuscript, (viz.) the View of Staffordshire, made by Sampson Erderswicke Esquire; That one William Stamford in that County, had good land given him therein, for taking the Duke of Longevile prisoner, August the 16. in the fifth of King Henry the eight. History will not allow two Dukes of Longevile Captives, and yet I have a belief for them both, that Sir John Clarke, and William Stamford were causae sociae of his Captivity, and the King remunerated them both, the former with an addition of honour, the later with an accession of Estate.

23 WILLIAM SPENCER, Miles, & DAVID SISILL, Arm.]

24 DAVID CECILL, Arm.]

Sir William Spencer dying [it seems] in his Sherivalty, David Sissill supplied the remainder of that, and was Sheriffe the next year. This David had three times been Alderman **R. Butcher in S…rvey of S…amsord p. 43.of Stamford, (part whereof called Saint Martins is in this County,) viz. 1504. 1515. and 1526. and now twice Sheriffe of the County, which proves him a person both of Birth, Brains, and Estate; seeing in that age, in this County so plentiful of capable persons, none were advanced to that office, except Esquires at least of much merrit. The different spelling of his name is easily answered, the one being according to his extraction, of the Sitsilts of Alterynnis in Herefordshire, the other according to the vulgar pronunciation. All I will adde is this, that his Grand-child William Cecil, (afterwards Baron of Burghley, and Lord Treasurer of England) being born **Camd. El…z. in Anno 1598.Anno 1521. was just ten years of age, in the Sherivalty of this David his Grand-father.

25 WILLIAM PAR, Mil.]

He was son to Sir Thomas Par, of whom before. Ten years after, viz. in the 35. year of his reign, King Henry the eight (having newly married his Sister Queen Katharine Par,) made him Lord Par of Kendall, and Earl of Essex, in right of Anne Bourcher his wife.

King Edward the sixth, Created him Marquiss of Northampton. Under Queen Mary, he was condemned for siding with Queen Jane, but pardoned his life, and restored to his lands, as by Queen Elizabeth to his honour. Much was he given to Musick and Poetry, and wanted not personal valour, not unskillful, though unsuccessful in Military Conduct, as in the imployment against Ket. He died Anno Domini 1571. without Issue.

p. 300Queen MARY.

1 THOMAS TRESSAM, Mil.]

He was a person of great command in this County, and was zealous (against the Court Faction) in proclaiming and promoting Q. Mary to the Crown; She therefore in gratitude, made him the first and last Lord Prior, of the re-erected Order of Saint Johns of Jerusalem. Dying without Issue, and being buried in Rushton Church, his large lands descended to his Kinsman and Heir Thomas Tressam; of whom hereafter.

Queen ELIZABETH.

6 EDMUND BRUDENELL, Arm.]

This is that worthy person, of whom (afterwards Knighted) Master **Brit in Northhamptonshire.Camden entereth this honorable memorial,

Equibus Edmundus Brudenel Eques auratus, non ita pridem defunctus, venerandae antiquitatis summis fuit cultor, & admirator.

He may seem to have entailed his learned and liberal inclinations and abilities, on his (though not son) heir, Thomas Lord Brudenell of Stoughton, then whom none of our Nobility, more able in the English Antiquities.

15 THOMAS TRESSAM, Arm.]

The Queen Knighted him in the 18. year of her reign at Kenelworth. Hard to say whether greater his delight, or skill in buildings, though more forward in beginning, then fortunate in finishing his fabricks. Amongst which the Market-house at Rothwell, adorned with the armes of the Gentry of the County, was highly commendable. Having many daughters, and being a great house-keeper, he matched most of them into Honorable, the rest of them into Worshipful and Wealthy Families. He was zealous in the Romish perswasion, (though as yet not convicted) which afterwards cost him a long confinement, in Wisbich-Castle.

20 THOMAS CECILL, Mil.]

He was eldest son to Sir William Cecill, then Baron of Burghley, who would not have him by favour excused from serving his Country. He afterwards was Earl of Exeter, and married Dorothy one of the Co-heirs of the Lord Latimer. These joyntly bestowed one hundred and eight pounds per annum, on Clare-hall in Cambridge.

24 THOMAS ANDREWS, Arm.]

He **Camd. Eliz. Anno 1587.attended the Execution of the Queen of Scots, at Fotheringhay-Castle, demeaning himself with much gravity, to his great commendation.

34 ANTHONY MILEMAY, Esq.]

He was son to Sir Walter, Privy-Councellor, and Founder of Emanuel-colledge, this Anthony was by Queen Elizabeth Knighted, and sent over into France on an Embassy, upon the same token, he was at Geneva the same time; (Reader I have it from uncontrolable intelligence) when Theodore Beza, their Minister, was convented before their Consistory, and publiquely checqu'd for peaching too eloquently; He pleaded, that what they called eloquence in him, was not affected, but natural, and promised to endeavour more plainness for the future. Sir Anthony, by Grace Co-heir to Sir Henry Sherington, had one daughter Mary, married to Sir Francis Fane, afterwards Earl of Westmerland.

43 ROBERT SPENCER, Mil.]

He was the fifth **Camdens B…it. in Northamp.Knight of his Family, in an immediate succession, well allied and extracted, being a branch descended from the Spencers Earls of Gloucester and **Guill. Displ…y of Heraldry. pag. 274. fi…st Edit.Winchester. By King James in the first of his reign, he was Created Baron Spencer of VVormeleiton in the County of VVarwick. He was a good Patriot, of a quick and clear spirit, as by one passage may appear.

Speaking in Parliament of the valour of their English ancestors, in defending the liberties of the Nation. Your ancestours, (said the Earl of Arundel) were keeping of sheep, (that Lord and his predecessours being known for the greatest Sheep-masters in England,) when those liberties were defended. If they were in keeping of sheep (return'd p. 301the other) Yours were then in plotting of Treason. Whose **Wilson in th^e life of King James.animosities for the present cost both of them a confinement, yet so that afterwards the Upper House Ordered reparations to this Lord Spencer, as first, (and causelesly) provoked.

This Lord was also he, who, in the first of King James, was sent (with Sir VVilliam Dethick principal King of Armes,) to Frederick Duke of VVirtenberge, elected into the Order of the Garter; to present, and invest him with the robes and ornaments thereof, which were accordingly, with great solemnity, performed in the Cathedral **Stows Chron. pag. 128.of Studgard.

King JAMES.

2 ARTHUR THROGKMORTON, Mil.]

He was son to that eminent Knight, Sir Nicholas Throgkmorton, (of whom in VVarwick▪ shire) and his Sister was married to Sir VValter Raleigh. This Sir Arthur was a most ingenious Gentleman, and dying without Issue-male, his large estate was parted amongst his four daughters married to the Lord Dacres, the Lord VVotton, Sir Peter Temple of Stow Baronet, and Sir Edward Partridge.

3 JOHN FREEMAN, Arm.]

He died without Issue, and was a most bountiful Benefactour to Clare▪ hall in Cambridge, giving two thousand pounds to the founding of Fellowships, and Scholarships therein.

12 WILLIAM WILLMER, Arm.]

He was the first Pensioner, as Doctor James Mountague the first Master, and Sir John Brewerton first Scholar of the House in Sidney-colledge, being all three of them, (but in several proportions) Benefactours to that Foundation.

22 WILLIAM CHAUNCY, Mil.]

These have been very (but I know not how) antient in this County, but far antienter in Yorkshire. For I meet with this Inscriptiou on a Monument at Sabridgeworth in Hertfordshire.

Hic jacent Johannes Chancy, Ar. filius & heres Johannis Chancy, Ar. filii & heredis Willielmi Chancy, Mil. quondam Baronis de Shorpenbek in Com. Ebor. & Anna uxor ejus una filiarum Johannis Leventhorpe, Ar. qui quidem Johannes obiit VII. Maii MCCCCLXXIX. & Annaii Decemb. MCCCCLXXVII. quorum animabus.

It appeareth to me by a well proved pedegree, that Henry Chancy Esq. of Yardlebury in Hertfordshire, is the direct descendant from the aforesaid John Chancy, whose Epitaph we have inserted.

King CHARLES.

7 JOHN HEWET, Baronet]

He had not one foot of land, nor house (hiring Hemington of the Lord Mountague) in the whole County, though several **The 9. of Edw. 2. Lincoln 4. Edw. 3, 9, 5. Edw. 3, 4.Statutes have provided, that the Sheriffe should have sufficient land in the same Shire, to answer the King and his people. The best is, this Baronet had a very fair estate elsewhere. And as our English proverb saith, VVhat is lost in the Hundred, will be found in the Shire: so what was lost in the Shire, would be found in the Land. However, this was generally beheld as an injury; that, because he had offended a great Courtier, the Sherivalty was by power imposed upon him.

The Farewell.

The worst I wish this my Native County is, that Nine (a River which some will have so term'd from Nine Tributary Rivolets) were Ten, I mean made navigable, from Peterburg, to Northampton. A design which hath always met with many back-friends, as private profit is (though a secret) a Sworn enemy to the general good.

Sure I am the Hollanders, (the best copy of thrift in Christendome) teach their little ditches to bear Boats. Not that their waters are more docible in this kind, then ours, but they are the more Ingenious and Industrious School-master, of the lesson of publick advantage making every place in their Province, to have access unto every place therein, by such cheap transportation.