The History of the Worthies of England, Part 2 · County 33

The History of the Worthies of England · Part 2 · County 33

p. 325OXFORD-SHIRE hath Bark-shire (divided first by the Isis, then by the Thames) on the South, Glocester-shire on the West, Buckingham-shire on the East, Warwick and Northampton Shires on the North. It aboundeth with all things necessary for mans life; and I understand, that Hunters and Falconers are no where better pleas'd. Nor needeth there more pregnant proof of plenty in this place, than that lately Oxford was for some years together a Court, a Garrison, and an University; during which time it was well furnished with provisions on reasonable rates.

Natural Commodities.

Fallow Deer.

And why of these in Oxford shire? why not rather in Northampton-shire, where there be the most, or in York shire, where there be the greatest Parks in England? It is because John Rous of Warwick telleth me, that at Woodstock in this County was the most ancient Park in the whole Land, encompassed with a Stone-wall by King Henry the First.

Let us premise a line or two concerning Parks, the case, before we come to wha tis contained therein.

1. The word Parcus appears in Varro, (derivd no doubt à parcendo, to spare or save) for a place wherein such Cattle are preserved.

2. There is mention once or twice in **Camb. Brit. in Oxford-shire.Dooms-day Book of Parcus silvestris bestiarum, which proveth Parks in England before the Conquest.

3. Probably such ancient Parks (to keep J. Rous in credit and countenance) were onelyonly paled, and Woodstock the first that was walled about.

4. Parks are since so multiplyed, that there be **Idem ibid.more in England than in all Europe besides.

The Deer therein, when living, raise the stomachs of Gentlemen with their sport; and, when dead, allay them again with their flesh. The fat of Venison is conceived to be (but I would not have Deer-stealers hear it) of all flesh the most vigorous nourishment, especially if attended with that essential addition which Virgil coupleth therewith,

Implentur veteris Bacchi, pinguis que ferinae,

[Old Wine did their thirst allay, fat Venison hunger.]

But Deer are daily diminished in England, since the Gentry are necessitated into thrift, and forced to turn their pleasure into profit, Jam seges est ubi Parcus erat; and since the sale of Bucks hath become ordinary, I believe, in pro…ess of time the best stored Park will be found in a Cooks shop in London.

Wood.

Plenty hereof do…h, more hath grown in this County, being daily diminished. And indeed the Woods therein are put to too hard a task in their daily duty, (viz. To find fewel and timber for all the houses in, and many out of, the Shire;) and they cannot hold out, if not seasonably relieved by Pit-cole found here, or Sea-cole brought hither. This minds me of a passage wherein Oxford was much concerned; When Shot-over Woods (being bestowed by King Charles the First on a Person of Honour) were likely to be cut down, the University by Letters laboured their preservation, wherein this among many other pathetical expressions, That Oxford was one of the eyes of the Land, and Shot-over Woods the hair of the Eye-lids; the loss whereof must needs prejudice the sight, with too much moisture flowing therein. This retrenched that design'd for the present; but in what case those Woods stand at this day, is to me unknown.

p. 326Buildings.

The Colleges in Oxford, advantaged by the vicinity of fair Free-stone, do for the gen…rality of their structure carry away the credit from all in Christendom, and equal any for the largness of their endowments.

It is not the least part of Oxfords happiness, that a moity of her Founders were Prelates, (whereas …bridge hath but three Episcopal Foundations, Peter-house, Trinityhall, and Jesus) who had an experimental knowledge, what belonged to the necessities and conveniences of Scholars, and therefore have accommodated them accordingly; principally in providing them the patronages of many good Benefices, whereby the Fellows of those Colleges are plentifully maintained, after their leaving of the University.

Of the Colleges University is the oldest, Pembroke the youngest, Christ-church the greatest, Lincol… (by many reputed) the least, Magdalen the neatest, Wadham the most uniform, New-college the strongest, and Jesus college (no fault but its unhappiness) the poorest; and if I knew which was the richest, I would not tell, seeing concealment in this kind is the safest. H…-college is most proper for Southern, Exeter for Western, Queens for Northern, Brazen-nose for North-western men, St. Johns for Londoners, Jesus for Wels…men; and at other Colleges almost indifferently for men of all Countries. Merton hath been most famous for School-men, Corpus Chresti (formerly called … Gollegium) for Linguists, Christ-church for Poets, All-souls for Orators, Newcollege for Civilians, Brazen-nose for Disputants, Queens college for Metaphysicians, … for a la…e series of Regius Professor's; Magdalen for ancient, St. Johns for modern Prelates: and all eminent in some one kind or other. And if any of these Colleges were transported into forreign parts, it would alter its kind, (or degree at least) and presently of a College proceed an University, as equal to most, and superiour to many, … beyond the Seas.

Before I conclude with these Colleges, I must confess how much I was posed with a passage which I met within the Epistles of Erasmus, writing to his familiar friend Lud…vicus Vives, then residing in Oxford, in collegio Apum, in the College of Bees, according to his direction of his Letter: I knew all Colleges may metaphorically be rermed the Colleges of Bees, wherein the industrious Scholers live under the rule of one Master: In which respect **In Epistola ad Rusticum monachum.St. Hierom advised Rusticus the Monk to busie himself in making Bee-…ives, that from thence he might learn, Monasteriorum ordinem & Regiam disciplinam, the order of Monasteries and discipline of Kingly government. But why any one College should be so signally called, and which it was, I was at a loss; till at last seasonably satisfied that it was Corpus Christi: whereon no unpleasant story doth depend▪

In the year **Butler of Bees, p. 23.1630. the Leads over Vives his Study being decayed, were taken up and new cast, by which occasion the Stall was taken, and with it an incredible mass of Honey. But the Bees, as presaging their intended and imminent destruction (whereas they were never known to have swarmed before) did that Spring (to preserve their famous kind) send down a fair swarm into the Presidents Garden: The which in the y… 1633 yielded two Swarms, one whereof pitched in the Garden for the President, the other they … up as a new Colony into their old Habitation, there to continue the memory of this … Doctor, as the University styled him in a Letter to the …ardinal.

It seems the… Bees were Aborigines, from the first building of the Colledge, being called Collegium Apum in the Founders Statutes, and so is John Claym…d, the first President thereof, saluted by **I… c…stigationem Chrysost. conciuncularum defato.Eras….

The Library.

If the Schools may be resembled to the Ring, the Library may the better be compared to the Diamond therein: not so much for the bunching forth beyond the rest, p. 327as the preciousness thereof, in some respects equalling any in Europe, and in most kinds exceeding all in England, yet our Land hath been ever foreign, much given to the love of Books, and let us Fleet the Cream of a few of the primest Libraries in all ages.

In the infancy of Christianity, that at York bare away the Bell, founded by ArchBishop Egbert (and so highly praised by Alevinus in his Epistle to Charles the Great) but long since abolished.

Before the dissolution of Abbies, when all Cathedr…s and Convents had their Libraries, that at Ramsey was the greatest R…bbin, spake the most and best Hebrew, abounding in Iewish, and not defective in other Books.

In that age of Lay Libraries (as I may term them, as belonging to the City) I behold that pertaining to Guild-Hall as a principal, …ounded by Richard Wh…ington, whence three **Stow in his Survey of London.Cart loads of choice Manuscripts were carried in the raign of King Edward the sixth on the promise of [never performed Restitution.]

Since the Reformation, that of Benet in Cambridge hath for Manuscripts exceeded any (thank the cost and care of Mathew Parker) Colleg…ate Library in England.

Of late Cambridge Library, augmented with the Arch-Episcopal Library of Lambeth, is grown the second in the Land.

As for private Libraries of Subjects, that of Treasurer Burlies was the best for the use of a States-man, the Lord Lumlies for an Historian, the late Earl of Arundels for an Herald, Sir Robert Cottons for an Antiquary, and Arch-Bishop Ushers for a Divine. Many other excellent Libraries there were o… particular persons, Lord Brudnels, Lord Hat tons, &c. routed by our Civil Wars, and many Books which scaped the execution are fled, [transported] into France, Flanders, and other forraign parts.

To return to Oxford Library (which stands like Di… amongst her Nymphs, and) surpasseth all the rest for rarity and multitude of Books; so that if any be wanting on any Subject, it is because the world doth not afford them. This Library was …ounded by Humphrey the Good Duke of Glo…ster; confounded in the raign of Edward the sixth, by those who I list not to name; re-founded by worthy Sir Thomas Bodley, and the bounty of daily Benefactors.

As for the Kings Houses in this County Woodstock is justly to be preferred, where the Wood and Water Nymphs might equally be pleased in its …uation. Queen Elizabeth had a great affection for this place, as one of her best R…membrancers of her condition, when a prisoner here (in none of the best lodgings) in the raig… of her Sister. Here she escaped a dangerous fire, but whether casual or intentional God knoweth. Here hearing a Milk-maid merrily singing in the Park, she desired exchange of Estates, preferring the poorest liberty before the richest res…raint. At this day it is a fair, wa… formerly a fairer fabrick, if the Labyrinth built here by King Henry the second, answered the Character of Curiosity given it by Authors. But long since the Labyrinth (time without the help of Ariadne her Clue of Silk, can unravel and display this most intricate building) is vanished away.

Nor must E…on hard by be forgotten, which though some sullen Soul may recount amongst the costly tri…es, the more ingenious do behold as Arts pretty Comment, as Natures pleasant Text, both so intermingled, that Art in some sort may seem …tural, and Nature artificial therein. It was made by Thomas B…shel, Es… sometimes servant to Francis Bacon Lord Vor…am. Now because mens expectations are generally tired with the tedious growing of wood, here he set hedges of full growth (which thrived …ll well) so that where the former left no plants, the following year found trees grown to their full perfection. In a word, a melancholy mind may hear feast it self to a surfeit with variety of entertainments. But Rarities of this nature are never sufficiently described till beheld.

Proverbs.

You were born at Hogs-Norton.]

This is a Village, properly called Hoch-Norton, whose inhabitants (it seems formerly) were so rustical in their behaviour, that boarish and clownish people are said born at Hogs-Norton. p. 328To take a Burford-bait.]

This it seems is a bait, not to stay the stomach, but to lose the wit thereby, as resolved at last into drunkenness. If the fair Market of Burford in this County be so much guilty of this foul sin, it is high time to damne the words of this Proverb, and higher to detest the practice thereof. Otherwise Burford-bait may have an hook therein, to choak such souls as swallow it, without their sincere and seasonable repentance.

Banbury Zeale, Cheese, and Cakes.]

I admire to find these joyned together in so learned an Author as Mr. Cambden, affirming*Brit. in Oxford-shire, pa… 376. that Town fam'd for these three things, Quam male conveniunt? and though Zeal be deservedly put first, how inconsistent is it with his gravity and goodness, to couple a spiritual grace with matters of corporeal repast: so that if spoken in earnest, it hath more of a prophane than pious Pen; if in jest, more of a Libeller than Historian.

But to qualifie the man, no such words are extant in the Latine Cambden, where only we read, Nunc autem con…iciendo caseo oppidum notissimum castrum ostendit, &c.

Secondly, it being in the English translated by Philemon Holland, was at the first (as I have been credibly informed) a litteral mistake of the Printers (though not confessed in the Errata) set forth in Anno Dom. 1608. Zeal being put for Veal in that place.

But what casual in that, may be suspected wilful in the next and last Edition, Anno 1637. where the error is continued out of design to nick the Town of Banbury, as reputed then a place of precise people, and not over-conformable in their carriage. Sure I am that Banbury had a gracious, learned, and painful **Mr. William Whaley, of whom hereaster in this County.Minister, and this Town need not be ashamed of, nor grieved at what Scoffers say or write thereof; only let them adde Knowledge to their Zeal, and then the more of Zeal the better their condition.

He looks as the Devil over Lincoln.]

Some fetch the original of this Proverb from a stone picture of the Devil, which doth (or lately did) over-look Lincoln Colledge. Surely, the Architect intended it no farther than for an ordinary Antick, though beholders have since applied those ugly looks to envious persons, repining at the prosperity of their neighbours, and jealous to be overtopt by their vicinity.

The Latines have many Proverbs parallel hereunto, to express the ill aspects of malevolent spectators, as, Cyclopicus Obtutus, and the Cyclops, we know, were deformed at the best (envy makes a good face look ill, and a bad, look worse) Vultus Titanicus, Vultus Scythicus, Limis oculis os oblique inspicere, Thynni more videre, To look like a Thuny, a Fish, which, as Aristotle saith, hath but one eye, and that, as some will have it, on the left side; so full is malice of sinister acceptions.

To return to our English Proverb, it is conceived of more antiquity than either of the fore-named Colledges, though the secundary sense thereof lighted not unhappily, and that it related originally to the Cathedral Church in **V…d. su…rain Lincoln shire.Lincoln.

Testons are gone to **J. Heywood in his five hundred Epigrams, num. 63Oxford to study in Brazen-nose.]

This Proverb began about the end of the raign of King Henry the eighth, and happily ended about the middle of the raign of Queen Elizabeth, so that it continued in use not full fifty years.

This the occasion thereof▪ King Henry the eighth, as his In-comes, so his Out-goings were greater than any English Kings since the Conquest. And it belongs not to me to question the cause of either. Sure it is, as he was always taking, he was always wanting; and the Showre of Abby-Lands being soon over, his drought for money was as great as ever before. This made him resolve on the debasing thereof, Testons especially (a Coin worth six pence, corruptly called Tester,) so that their intrinsick value was not worth above three shillings four pence the ounce, to the present profit of the Soveraign, and future loss of the Subjects. Yea, so allayed they were with Copper (which common people confound with Brass) and lookt so red therewith, that (as my Author saith) they **Idem. num. 64blusht sor shame, as conscious of their own corruption.

King Edward the sixth, and Queen Mary earnestly endeavoured the reduction of money to the true Standard (and indeed the Coin of their stamping is not bad in its self) but could not compass the calling in of all base money, partly through the shortness of their Raigns, and partly through the difficulty of the design. This by politick degrees p. 329was effected by Queen Elizabeth, with no great prejudice to the then present age, and grand advantage to all posterity, as is justly mentioned on her Monument in Westminster.

Send Verdingales to **Heywood in his five Hundred Epigrams, Num. 55.Broad-Gates in Oxford.]

This will acquaint us with the Female Habit of former Ages, used not only by the gadding Dinahs of that age, but by most sober Sarahs of the same, so cogent is a common custom. With these Verdingales the Gowns of Women beneath their w…stes were pent-housed out far beyond their bodies, so that posterity will wonder to what purpose those Bucklers of Past-board were employed.

Some deduce the name from the Belgick Verd gard (derived they say from Virg, a Virgin, and Garder, to keep and preserve) as used to secure modesty, and keep wantons at distance. Others more truly fetch it from Vertu and Galle, because the scab and bane thereof, the first inventress thereof being known for a light House-wife, who under the pretence of modesty, sought to cover her shame, and the fruits of her wantonness.

These by degrees grew so great, that their wearers could not enter (except going sidelong) at any ordinary door, which gave the occasion to this Proverb. But these Verdingales have been disused this fourty years, whether because Women were convinced in their consciences of the va…ity of this, or allured in their fancies with the novelty of other fashions, I will not determine.

Chronica si penses, cum pugnent Oxonienses,

Post aliquot mēses volat ira per Angliginenses

Mark the Chronicles aright▪

When Oxford Scholars fall to fight,

Before many months expir'd

England will with wa… be fir'd.

I confesse Oxoniensis may import the broils betwixt the Townsmen of Oxford, or Towns men and Scholars; but I conceive it properly to intend the contests betwixt Scholars and Scholars, which were observed predictional, as if their animosities were the Index of the Volume of the Land. Such who have time may exactly trace the truth hereof through our English Histories. Sure I am, there were shrewd bickerings betwixt the Southern and Northern men in Oxford in the reign of King Henry the third, not long before the bloody War of the Barons did begin. The like happened twice under King Richard the second, which seemed to be the Van-curreer of the fatal fights betwixt Lancaster and York. However this observation holds not negatively, all being peaceable in that place, and no broils at Oxford, sounding the al…rum to our late civil dissentions.

Princes.

RICHARD Son to King Henry the second, and Queen Eleanor (was the sixth King since the Conquest, but second Native of England) born in the City of Oxford, Anno 1157. Whilest a Prince he was undutiful to his Father, or to qualifie the matter, overdutiful to his Mother, whose domestick quarrels he always espoused. To expia…e his offence when King, he with Philip King of France undertook a voyage to the Holy Land, where thorough the Treachery of Templary cowardize of the Greeks, diversity of the Climate, distance of the place, and differences betwixt Christian Princes, much time was spent, a mass of money expended, many lives lost, some honour atchieved, but little profit produced. Going to Palestine, he suffered ship-wrack, and many mischiefs on the coasts of Cyprus; coming for England thorow Germany, he was tost with a worse Land-Tempest, being (in pursuance of an old grudge betwixt them) taken prisoner by Leopaldu… Duke of Austria. Yet this Coeur de Lion, or Lion-hearted King (for so was he commonly called) was no less Lion (though now in a Grate) than when at liberty, abating nothing of his high spirit in his behaviour. The Duke did not undervalue this his Royal Prisoner, prizing his person at ten years purchase, according to the [then] yearly revenue of the English Crown. This ransome of an hundred thousand pounds being paid, he came home; first reformed himself, and then mended many abuses in the Land, and had done more, had not an unfortunate Arrow shot out of a besieged Castle in France, put a period to his life, Anno Dom. 1199.

EDMUND, youngest Son to King Edward the first by Queen Margaret, was born at Woodstock, Aug. 5. 1301. he was afterwards created Earl of Kent, and was Tutor to his Nephew King Edward the third. In whose raign falling into the tempest of false, injurious and wicked envy, he was beheaded, for that he never dissembled his natural brotherly affection toward his Brother deposed, and went about when he was (God wot) murdered before (not knowing so much) to enlarge him out of prison, perswaded thereunto by such as covertly practised his destruction. He suffered at Winchester the ninteenth of March, in the fourth of Edward the third.

EDWARD, Eldest Son of King Edward the third, was born at Woodstock in this County, and bred under his Father (never abler Teacher met with an apter Scholar) in Marshal Discipline. He was afterwards termed the Black Prince, not so called from his complexion, which was fair enough (save when Sun-burnt in his Spanish expedition) nor from his conditions, which were courteous (the constant attender of Valour;) but from his atchievements dismal and black, as they appeared to the eyes of his enemies, whom he constantly overcame.

But grant him black in himself, he had the fairest Lady to his Wife this Land and that age did afford, viz. Joane Countess of Salisbury and Kent, which though formerly twice a Widow, was the third time married unto him. This is she whose Ga… ter (which now flourisheth again) hath lasted longer than all the Wardrobes of the Kings and Queens in England since the Conquest, continued in the Knighthood of that Order.

This Prince died before his Father at Canterbury in the 46. year of his age, Anno Dom. 1376. whose Maiden success attended him to the grave, as never foyled in any undertakings. Had he survived to old age, in all probabilities the Wars between York and Lancaster had been ended before begun, I mean, prevented in him, being a person of merit and spirit, and in Seniority before any suspicion of such divisions. He left two Sons, Edward who died at seven years of age, and Richard, afterwards King, second of that name, both born in France, and therefore not coming within the compass of our Catalogue.

THOMAS of Woodstock, youngest Son of King Edward the third, and Queen Philippa, was sirnamed of Woodstock, from the place of his Nativity. He was afterward Earl of Buckingham and Duke of Gloucester, created by his Nephew King Richard the second, who summoned him to the Parliament, by the Title of the Kings loving Uncle. He married Isabel one of the Co-heirs of Humphrey Bohun Earl of Essex, in whose right he became Constable of England; a dangerous place, when it met with an unruly manager thereof.

But this Thomas was only guilty of ill tempered Loyalty, loving the King well, but his own humors better, rather wilful than hurtful; and presuming on the old maxime, Patruus est loco Parentis, An Uncle is in the place of a Father. He observed the King too nearly, and checked him too sharply; whereupon he was conveyed to Calis, and there strangled. By whose death King Richard being freed from the causeless fear of an Uncle, became exposed to the cunning Plots of his Cousin German, Henry Duke of Lancaster, who at last deposed him. This Thomas founded a fair Colledge at Playsie in Essex, where his body was first buried with all Solemnity, and afterward translated to Westminster.

ANNE BEAUCHAMP was born at **Mr. Dugdale in his Illustration of Warwick-shire, pag 334.Cavesham in this County. Let her pass for a Princess (though not formally) reductively, seeing so much of History dependeth on her, as,

I am not certainly informed when a full period was put by death to these her sad calamities.

Saints.

St. FRIDESWIDE was born in the City of Oxford, being daughter to Didan the Duke thereof. It happened that one Algarus, a noble young man, sollicited her to yield to his lust, from whom she miraculously escaped, he being of a sudden struck **Pol. V…. l. 5. hist. Breviar. sec. usum Sarum. M. S. Rob. Buck.blind. If so, she had better success than as good a Virgin, the daughter to a greater and better father, I mean Thamar daughter of King David, not so strangely **2 Sam. 13. 142 Sam 13:14secured from the lust of her brother.

She was afterward made Abbess of a Monastery, erected by her father in the same City, which since is become part of Christ-church, where her body lyeth buried.

It happened in the first of Queen Elizabeth, that the Scholars of Oxford took up the body of the wife of Peter Martyr, who formerly had been disgracefully buried in a dunghill, and interred it in the Tomb with the dust of St. Frideswide. **Sand…rs de sòl. Angl. l. 3. p. 344.Sanders addeth, that they wrote this Inscription, (which he calleth Impium Epitaphium) Hic requiescit Religio cum …uperstitione: though the words being capable of a favourable sense on his side, he need not have been so angry. However we will rub up our old Poetry, and bestow another upon them:

In tumulo fuerat Petri quae Martyris uxor,

Hic cum Frideswida virgine jure jacet.

Virginis intactae nihilum cum cedat honori,

Conjugis in thalamo non temerata fides.

Si facer Angligenis cultus mutetur, (at absit!)

Ossa suum …ervent mutua tuta locum.

Intom'd with Frideswide, deem'd a Sainted maid,

The Wife of Peter Martyr here is laid.

And reason good, for Women chaste in mind,

The best of Virgins come no whit behind.

Should Popery return, (which God forefend!)

Their blended dust each other would de…end.

Yet was there more than eight hundred years betwixt their several deaths, Saint Frideswide dying Anno 739. and is remembred in the Romish Calendar on the nineteenth day of October.

St. EDWOLD was younger **Gul. Malm…. J. de Pont. Angl. hac d…e. M…rbert in fest. S.S.Brother to St. Edmund King of the East-Angles, so cruelly martyred by the Danes, and after his death that Kingdom not onelyonly descended to him by right; but also by his Subjects importunity was pressed upon him. But he declined both, preferring rather a sollitary life and heavenly contemplation. In pursuance whereof he retired to Dorcester in this County, and to a Monastery called Cornhouse therein, where he was interred, and had in great veneration for his reputed miracles after his death, which happened Anno Dom. 871.

St. EDWARD the CONFESSOR was born at **Speed▪ Chro. in the life of this King.I slip in this County, and became afterwards King of England, sitting on the Throne for many years, with much peace and prosperity. Famous for the first founding of Westminster Abby, and many other worthy a…hievements.

By Bale he is called Edvardus simplex, which may signifie either shallow or single; but (in what sense soever he gave it) we take it in the later. Sole and single he lived and dyed, never carnally conversing with St. Edith his Queen: which is beheld by different persons according to their different judgments, (coloured eyes make coloured objects) some pitying him for defect or natural Impotence; others condemning him as affecting singelness, for want of Conjugal affection; others applauding it as an high p…ece of … and perfection. Sure I am, it opened a dore for forreign Competitors, and occasioned the Conquest of this Nation. He dyed Anno Dom. 1065. and lyeth buryed in Westminster Abby.

Cardinals.

ROBERT PULLEN or **Bishop Godwin in h… Catalogue of Cardina's.Pullain or Pulley or Puley or Bullen or Pully, for thus variouslyS. N. is he found written. Thus the same name passing many mouths seems in some sort to be declined into several Cases, whereas indeed it still remaineth one and the same word, though differently spelled and pronounced.

In his youth …e studied at Paris, whence he came over into England in the reign of King Henry the Fi…st, when learning ran very low in Oxford, the university there being first much affl…cted by Herald the Dane, afterwards almost extinguished by the cruelty of …he Conqueror. Our Pullen improved his utmost power with the King and Prelates for the restoring thereof, and by his **J Bale & J. Pits de script. B…it.praying, preaching, and publick reading, gave a great advancement thereunto. Remarkable is his character in the Chronicle of **Ci…ed by Mr. … in Oxsord-shire.Osny, Robertus Pulenius scriptur as divin as quae in Anglia obsolverant apud Oxoniam legere c…pit, Robert Pullen began to read at Oxford the holy scriptures which were grown out of fashion in England.

The fame of his le…rning commended him beyond the Seas, and it is remarkable, that whereas it is usual with Popes (in policy to unravel what such weaved who were before them) three successive Popes continued their love to, and increased honours upon him:

1. Innocent courteously sent for him to Rome.

2. Celestine created him Cardinal of St. Eusebius, Anno 1144.

3. Lucius the second made him Chancellor of the Church of Rome.

He lived at Rome in great respect, and although the certain date of his death cannot be collected, it happened about the year of our Lord, 1150.

THOMAS JOYCE or Jorce, a **…. script. …. cent. 4. num. 89. & Pits in Anno 1311.Dominican, proceeded Doctor of Divinity in Oxford, S. N.and living there he became Provincial of his Order, both of England and Wales. From this place without ever having any other preferment, Pope Clement the fifth created him Cardinal of St. Sabine; though some conceive he wanted breadth proportionable to such an height of dignity, having no other revenue to maintain it, Cardinals being accounted Kings fellow, in that Age. Others admire at the contradiction betwixt Fryers p…ofession and practice, that persons so low should be so high, so poor so rich; which makes the same men to …, that so chaste might be so wanton.

He is remarkable on this account, that he had **Idem ut prius.six brethren all Dominicans. I will not listen to their compa…ison, who resemble them to the seven sons of **Acts 15. 14.Acts 15:14Sceva, which were Exorcists; but may term them a week of brethren, whereof this Rubricated Cardinal was the Dominical letter. There want not those who conceive great vertue in the youngest son of these seven, and that his Touch was able to cure the Popes Evil. This Thomas, as he had for the most time lived in Oxford, so his Corps by his own desire were buried in his Convent therein. He flourished Anno Dom. 1310.

Prelates.

HERBERT LOSING was born in **Godwins … of the Bishops of Norwich, pag. …8.Oxford, his father being an Abbot, seeing wives in that Age were not forbidden the Clergy, though possibly his father turned Abbot of Winchester in his old age, his son purchasing that preferment for him. But this Herbert bought a better for himself, giving nineteen hundred pounds to King William Rufus for the Bishoprick of Thetford. Hence the Verse was made,

Filius est Praesul, pater Abbas, Simon uterque. Meaning that both of them were guilty of Simony, a fashionable sin in the reign of that King, preferring more for their gifts than their endowments.

Reader, pardon a digression: I am confident there is one, and but one, sin frequent in the former Age, both with Clergy and Laity, which in our dayes our Land is not guilty of, and may find many compurgators of her innocence therein: I mean the sin of Simony, seeing none in our Age will give any thing for Church livings; partly because the persons presented thereunto have no assurance to keep them, partly because of the uncertainty of Tithes for their maintenance. But whether this our Age hath not added in sa…rilege what it wanteth in simony, is above my place to discuss, and more above my power to decide.

To return to our Herbert, whose character hitherto cannot entitle him to any room in our Catalogue of Worthies; but know that afterwards he went to Rome, (no such clean wash…ing as in the water of Tyber) and thence returned as free from fault as when first born. Thus cleansed from the Leprosie of simony he came back into England, removed his Bishoprick from Thetford to Norwich, laid the first stone, and in effect finished the fair Cathedral therein, and built five beautiful Parish Churches. He dyed Anno Dom. 1119. See more of his character, on just occasion, in Suffolk under the title of Prelates.

OWEN OGLETHORP was (saith my **Bishop Godwin in his Bishops of Carlile.Author) born of good parentage, and IA M P. conjecture a Native of this County, finding Owen Oglethorp his Kinsm…n twice HighSheriff thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth. He was President of Magaalen College in Oxford, Dean of Windsor, and at last made Bishop of Carlile by Queen Mary. A good natur'd man, and when single by himself very plyable to please Queen Elizabeth, whom he crowned Queen, which the rest of his Order refused to do: but when in conjunction with other Popish Bishops, such principles of stubbornness were distilled into him, that it cost him his …. However an **Sir John Harrington in his Addition to Bishop Godwin.Author tells me, that the Queen had still a favour for him, intending his restitution either to his own or a better Bishoprick, upon the promise of his general conformity, had he not dyed suddenly of an Apoplexy, 1559.

Since the Reformation.

JOHN UNDERHILL was born in the City of **… of New-college, Anno 1563.Oxford, sirst bred in New college, and afterwards Rector of Lincoln-college in that University; Chaplain to Queen Elizabeth, and esteemed a good Preacher in those dayes.

The Bishoprick of Oxford had now been void 22. years; and some suspected that so long a Vacancy would at last terminate in a Nullity, and that See be dissolved. The …ause that Church was so long a widow, was the want of a competent Estate to prefer her: At last the Queen 1589. appointed John underhill Bishop thereof. An ingenious **Sir John Harrington in the Bishops of Oxsord.Pen (but whose accusative suggestions are not alwayes to be believed) hinteth a suspition, as if he gave part of the … portion this Church had to a great Courtier, which made the match betwixt them. He dyed 1592. and lyeth buried in the middle Quire of Christs Church.

JOHN BANCROFT was born at Ascot in this County, and was advanced by Archbishop Bancroft his Uncle, from a Student in Christ-church, to be Master of universitycollege in Oxford. Here it cost him much pains and expence in a long suit to recover and settle the ancient Lands of that Foundation. Afterwards he was made Bishop of Oxford, and during his sitting in that See he renewed no Leases, but let them run out for the advantage of his successor. He obtained the Royalty of Shot-over for, and annexed the Vicari…ge of Cudsden to, his Bishoprick; where he built a fair Palace and a Chappel, expending on both about three thousand five hundred pounds; Cujus munificentiae (said the Oxford Orator of him to the King at Woodstock) debemus, quod incerti Laris Mitra, surrexerit è pulvere in Palatium. But now by a retrograde motion that fair building, è Palatio recidit in pulverem, being burnt down to the ground in the late wars, but for what advantage, as I do not know, so I list not to enquire. This Bishop dyed Anno Dom. 1640.

States=Men.

Sir DUDLEY CARLETON Knight, was born in this County, bred a Student in Christ-church in Oxford. He afterwards was related as a Secretary to Sir Ralph Winwood Ambassador in the Low-Countries, when K. James resigned the cautionary Towns to the States. Here he added so great experience to his former learning, that afterwards our King imployed him for twenty years together Ambassador in Venice, Savoy, and the united Provinces; Anne Garrard his Lady (co-heir to George Garrard, Esq) accompanying him in all his travels, as is expressed in her Epitaph in Westminster Abby.

He was by King Charles the first created Baron of Imbercourt in Surrey, and afterwards Viscount Dorchester, marying for his second wife the daughter of Sir Henry Glenham, the Relict of Paul Viscount Banning, who survived him. He succeeded the Lord Conway, (when preferred President of the Council) in the Secretary-ship of State, being sworn at White-hall, Decemb. 14. 1628. He dyed without issue Anno Dom. 163.. assigning his burial (as appears on her Tomb) with his first wife, which no doubt was performed accordingly.

Souldiers.

Of the NORRISES and the KNOWLLS.

No County in England can present such a brace of Families contemporaries, with such a bunch of Brethren on either, for eminent atchievements. So great their states and stomachs, that they often justled together: and no wonder if Oxford-shire wanted room for them, when all England could not hold them together. Let them be considered root and branch, first severally, then conjunctively.

The Norrises were all, Martis pulli, men of the sword, and never out of military imployment. The Knowlls were rather valiant men than any great souldiers, as little experienced in war. Queen Elizabeth loved the Knowlls for themselves, the Norrises for themselves and herself, being sensible that she needed such martial men for her service. The Norrises got more honour abroad, the Knowlls more profit at home, conversing constantly at Court; and no wonder if they were the warmest, who sate next to the Fire.

There was once a Challenge passed betwixt them at certain **Fragmenta R…galia in Knowlls.Exercises, to be tryed between the two Fraternities, the Queen and their aged Fathers being to be the Spectators and Judges, till it quickly became a …at quarrel betwixt them. Thus, though at the first they may be said to have fenced with rebated Rapiers and swords buttoned up, in merriment onelyonly to try their skill and strength, they soon fell to it at sharps indeed, seeking for many years together to supplant one another, such the heart-smoking, and then heart-burning betwixt them. And although their inclinations kept them asunder, the one Brother-hood coming seldom to Court, the other seldomer to Camp; yet the Knowlls are suspected to have done the Norrises bad offices, which at last did tend to their mutual hurt; so that it had been happy for both, had these their contests been seasonably turned into a cordial compliance.

Sir JOHN NORRIS must be resumed, that we may pay a greater Tribute of respect to his memory. He was a most accomplished General, both for a charge, which is the Sword; and a retreat, which is the Shield, of War. By the later he purchased to himself immortal praise, when in France he brought off a small hand-full of English from a great arm-full of enemies; fighting as he retreated, and retreating as he fought; so that alwayes his Reer affronted the Enemy. A retreat worth ten victories got by surprise, which speak rather the fortune, than either the valour or discretion of a Generall.

He was afterwards sent over with a great Command into Ireland, where his success neither answered to his own care, nor others expectation. Indeed hitherto Sir John had fought with right-handed enemies in France and the Netherlands, who was now to fight with left-handed foes, for so may the Wilde-Irish well be termed, (so that this great Master of Defence was now to seek a new guard) who could lye on the coldest earth, swim through the deepest water, run over what was neither earth nor water, I mean, bogs and marishes. He found it far harder to find out than fight his enemies, they so secured themselves in Fastnesses. Supplies, sown thick in promises, came up thin in performances; so slowly were succours sent unto him.

At last a great Lord was made Lieutenant of Ireland, of an opposite party to Sir John; there being Animosities in the Court of Queen Elizabeth, (as well as of later Princes) though her general good success rendred them the less to the publick notice of posterity. It grieved Sir John to the heart, to see one of an opposite Faction should be brought over his head, in so much that some conceive his working soul broke the cask of his body, as wanting a vent for his grief and anger; for going up into his Chamber, at the first hearing of the News he suddenly dyed, Anno Dom. 1597.

p. 336Queen Elizabeth used to call the Lady Margaret, his mother, her own Crew, being (as it seemeth) black in complexion, (a colour which no whit unbecame the faces of her Martial issue;) and upon the news of his death sent this Letter unto her, which I have transcribed from an Auth…ntick Copy.

To the Lady Norris.

22 Sept. 1597. My own Crow:

Harm not your self for bootless help, but shew a good example to comfort your dolorous Yoke-fellow. Although We have deferred long to represent to you Our gri…d thoughts, because We liked full ill to yield you the first reflection of misfortune, whom We have alwayes rather sought to cherish and comfort; yet knowing now, that Necessity must bring it to your ear, and Nature consequently must move both grief and passion in your heart; We resolved no longer to smother, neither Our care for your sorrow, or the sympathy of Our grief for your loss. Wherein, if it be true, That society in sorrow works diminution, We do assure you by this true messenger of Our Mind, that Nature can have stirred no more dolorous affection in you as a Mother for a dear Son, than gratefulness and memory of his service past, hath wrought m…s his Sovereign, apprehension of Our miss for so worthy a Servant. But now that Natures common work is done, and he that was born to dye hath paid his tribute, let that Christian discretion stay the flux of your immoderate grieving, which hath instructed you both by Example and Knowledge, that nothing in this kind hath happened, but by GODS Divine Providence. And let these lines from your loving and gracious Sovereign serve to assure you, that there shall ever appear the lively character of Our Estimation of him that was, in Our gracious care of you and yours that are left, in valuing rightly all their faithful and honest endeavours. More at this time We will not write of this unpleasant subject, but have dispatched this Gent. to visit both your Lord and you, and to condole with you in the true sense of your love, and to pray that the world may see, what time cureth in a weak mind, that Discretion and Moderation helpeth in you in this accident, where there is so just cause to demonstrate true Patience and Moderation.

Your gracious and loving Sovereign, E. R.

Now, though… nothing more consolatory and pathetical could be written from a Prince, yet his death went so near to the heart of the Lord, his ancient father, that he dyed soon after.

Writers.

JOHN HANVILE took his name (as I conceive) from Hanwell a Village in thisA M P. County, (now the habitation of the ancient Family of the Copes) seeing none other in England, both in sound and spelling, draweth nearer to his Sirname. He proceeded Master of Arts in Oxford, then studied in Paris, and travelled over most parts in Christendom. He is commonly called **Bale de script. Brit. cent. 3. nu…. 49.Archithrenius, or Pri…ce of lamentation, being another Jeremy and man of mourning. He wrote a book, wherein he bemoned the errors and vices of his own Age; and himself deserved to live in a better: Yet this doleful Dove could peck as well as grone, and somtimes was **Idem ibid.satyrical enough in his passion, there being but a narrow …age betwixt grief and anger; and bitterness is a quality common to them both. He flourished under King John, Anno 1200. and after his return from his travels, is conceived by some to have lived and dyed a Benedictine of St. Albans.

p. 337JOHN of OXFORD was no doubt so named from his birth in that City; otherwise had he onelyonly had his Education or eminent learning therein, there were hundreds Johns of Oxford as well as himself. Hector Boethius **In the Preface of his History to James King of Scotland.sirnamed him a Vado Boum, and owneth him the next Historian to Jeffrey Monmouth in age and industry. He was a great Anti-Becketist, as many more in that Age of greater learning (except stubornness be made the standard thereof) than Becket himself: Being ††Bale de script. Bri…. cent. 3. num 42.Dean of old Sar…m, and Chaplain to King Henry the second, he was by him imployed with others, to give an account to the Pope (but I question whe…her he would take it) of the Kings carriage in the business of Becket. He was preferred Anno 1175. Bishop of Norwich, where he repaired his **Bishop Godwin in th… Bi shop… o… Norwich.Cathedral, lately defaced with fire, built a fair Almes-house, and Trinity-church in Ipswich. His death happened Anno Dom. 1200.

ROBERT BACON, ††B…le de scrip. Brit. cent. 4. num. 4. & P…ts in Anno 1248first Scholer of, afterward a familiar Friend to, St. Edmund Archbishop of Canterbury, was bred a Doctor of Divinity in Oxford, and when aged becameS. N. a Dominican or preaching Fryer; and for his Sermons he was highly esteemed by King Henry the third. He was **M. Paris An 1233. p. 386.Lepidus & Cynicus, and a most profest enemy to Peter Roach Bishop of Winchester.

Mat…hew Paris ††Anno 12…8. p 747.gives him and another (viz. Richard de Fishakle) this praise, Quibus non erant majores, imò nec pares (ut creditur) viventes in Theologia, & aliis scientiis: and I listen the rather to his commendation, because being himself a Benedictine Monk, he had an antipathy against all Fryers. I behold this Robert Bacon as the senior of all the Bacons, which like tributary streams disembogued themselves, with all the credit of their actions, into Roger Bacon, who in process of time hath monopolized the honour of all his Sirname-sakes in Oxford. Our Robert dyed Anno Dom 1248.

ROBERT of OXFORD was not onelyonly an Admirer, but Adorer of Thomas Aquinas his contemporary; accounting his Opinions Oracles, as if it were a venial sin to doubt of, and a mortal to deny any of them. Mean time the Bishop of Paris, with the consent of the Masters of Sorbonne, (the great Champions of liberty in this kind) granted a licence to any Scholer, Opinari de opinionibus, to guess freely (and by consequence to discuss in Disputations) any mans Opinions, which as yet by a general Council were not decided matters of faith. Our Rober…, much offended thereat,**Bale de script. Brit. cent. 4. wrote not onelyonly against Henricus Gandavensis and Aegi…ius Romanus, but also the whole College of Sorbonne: an act beheld of many as of more boldness than brains, for a private person to perform. He flourished under King Henry the third, Anno Dom. 1270.

JEFFREY CHAUCER was by most probability born at Woodstock in this County, though other places lay stiff claim to his Nativity.

p. 338Now, what is to be done to decide the difference herein? Indeed Appion the Grammarian would have Homer (concerning whose Birth-place there was so much controversie) raised ab Inferis, that he might give a true account of the place of his Nativity. However our Chaucer is placed he…e, (having just grounds for the same) untill stronger reasons are brought to remove him.

He was a terse and elegant Po…t, (the Homer of his Age) and so refined our English Tongue, **Bale d… …. …. …. 7 num. 14.Ut inter expolitas gentium linguas potuit rectè quidem connumerari. His skill in Mathematicks was great, (being instructed therein by Joannes Sombus and Nicholas of Linn) which he evidenceth in his book De Sphaera. He being Contemporary with Gower, was living Anno Dom. 1402.

Since the Reformation.

THOMAS LYDYATE. Now I find the old sentence to be true, Difficile fugitivas mortuorum memorias retrahere, seeing all my industry and inquiry can retrive very little of this worthy person; and the Reader, I hope, will not be angry with me, who am so much grieved with my self for the same. Indeed contradicting qualities met in him, Eminency and Obscurity; the former for his Learning, the later for his Living. All that we can recover of him is as followeth▪ He was born at **New-college Reg. in Anno 1593.Alkerton in this County, bred first in Winchester school, then in New college in Oxford, being admitted therein Iune 22. 1593. An admirable Mathematician, witness these his learned Works left to posterity:

1. De variis Annorum Formis.

2. De natura Coeli & conditione Elementorum.

3. Praelectio Astronomica.

4. De origine Fontium.

5. Disquisitio Phisiologica.

6. Explicatio & additameutnm Arg. temp. nat. & ministerii Christi.

In handling of these subjects, it seems, he crossed Scalliger, who was highly offended thereat, conceiving himself such a Prince of Learning, it was high Treason for any to doubt of, much more deny, his opinion: Yea, he conceited his own Judgment so canonical, that it was Heresie for any inferiour person to differ from the same. Shall Scalliger write a book of the Emendation of Times, and should any presume to write one of the Emendation of Scalliger? especially one no publick Professor, and so private a person as Lydyate? However this great Bugbear Critick, finding it more easie to contemn the person, than confute the arguments of his Adversary, sleighted Lydyate as inconsiderable, jeering him for a Prophet, who indeed somewhat traded in the Apocalyptical Divinity.

Learned men of unbiassed judgments will maintain, that Lydyate had the best in that Contest, but here it came to pass what **Eccle…. 9. 16.Solomon had long before observed, Nevertheless the poor mans wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.

He never attained higher Church-preferment than the Rectory of Alkerton the Town of his Nativity, and deserted that (as I have cause to suspect) before his death. Impute his low condition to these causes,

1. The nature of his Studies, which being Mathematical and Speculative, brought not, foreign, Grist to the mill.

2. The nature of his Nature, being ambitious of Privity and Concealment.

3. The death of Prince Henry, (whose Library-keeper he was) and in whose Grave Lydyates hopes were interred.

4. His disaffection to Church-discipline, and Ceremonies used therein: though such wrong his memory, who represent him an Anabaptist.

His modesty was as great as his want, which he would not make known to any. Sir William Boswell, well understanding his worth, was a great friend unto him; and so was Bishop Williams. He dyed about Westminster, as I take it, in the year of our Lord, 1644. Happy had it been for posterity, if on his death-bed he could have bequeathed his Learning to any surviving Relation.

Sir RICHARD BAKER Knight, was a Native of this County, and High-Sheriff p. 339thereof in the 18. of King James, Anno Dom. 1621. His youth he spent in learning, the benefit whereof he reaped in his old age, when his Estate thorough Surety-ship (as I have heard him complain) was very much impair'd: But God may smile on them, on whom the World doth frown; whereof his pious old age was a memorable instance, when the storm on his Estate forced him to flye for shelter to his studies and devotions. He wrote an Exposition on the Lords prayer, which is corrival with the best Comments which professed Divines have written on that subject. He wrote a Chronicle on our English Kings, imbracing a method peculiar to himself, digesting Observables under several heads, very useful for the Reader. This reverend Knight left this troublesome world about the beginning of our Civil wars.

WILLIAM WHATELEY was born in Banbury, (whereof his father was twice Mayor) and bred in Christs-college in Cambridge. He became afterwards Minister in the Town of his Nativity; and though generally people do not respect a Prophet or Preacher when a Man, whom they knew whilest a Child; yet he met there with deserved reverence to his Person and Profession. Indeed he was a good Linguist, Philoso▪ pher, Mathematician, Divine; and (though a Poetical Satyrical Pen is pleas'd to pass a jeer upon him) free from Faction. He first became known to the world by his book called the Bride-bushe, which some say hath been more condemned than confuted, as maintaining a Position rather odious than untrue: But others hold that blows given from so near a Relation to so near a Relation, cannot be given so lightly, but they will be taken most heavily. Other good Works of his have been set forth since his death, which happened in the 56. year of his age, Anno Dom. 1639.

JOHN BALLE **The substance of his Character is taken out of his life written by Mr. Samuel Clarke.was born at Casfigton (four miles North-west of Oxford) in this County, an obscure Village, onelyonly illustrated by his Nativity. He proceeded Batchelor of Arts in Brazen-nose college in Oxford, (his Parents purse being not able to maintain him longer) and went into Cheshire, untill at last he was beneficed at Whitmore in the County of Stafford. He was an excellent School man and School-master, (qualities seldom meeting in the same man) a painful Preacher, and a profitable Writer, and his Treatise of Faith cannot sufficiently be commended. Indeed he liv'd by faith, having but small means to maintain him, (but 20▪ pounds yearly Salary, besides what he got by teaching and boording his Scholers) and yet was wont to say he had enough, enough, enough: Thus contentment consisteth not in heaping on more fuell, but in taking away some fire. He had an holy facetiousness in his discourse, when his friend having had a fall from his horse, and said that he never had the like deliverance; Yea, (said Mr. Balle) and an hundred times when you never fell; accounting Gods preserving us from, equal to his rescuing us out of, dangers. He had an humble heart free from passion, and though somewhat disaffected to Ceremonies and Church-discipline, confuted such as conceived the corruptions therein ground enough for a separation. He hated all New Lights and pretended Inspirations besides Scripture; and when one asked him whether he at any time had experience thereof in his own heart, No (said he) I bless God, and if I should ever have such phantasies, I hope God would give me grace to resist them. Notwithstanding his small means he lived himself comfortably, relieved others charitably, left his children competently, and dyed piously October the 20. Anno Dom. 1640.

WILLIAM CHILLINGWORTH was born in the City of Oxford, so that by the benefit of his birth he fell from the lap of his mother into the armes of the Muses. He was bred in Trinity college in this University; an acute and subtil Disputant, but unsetled in judgment, which made him go beyond the Seas, and in some sort was conciled to the Church of Rome: but, whether because he found not the respect he expected, (which some shrewdly suggest) or because his Conscience could not close with all the Romish corruptions, (which more charitably believe) he returned into England, and in testimony of his true conversion wrote a book entituled, The Religion of Protestants a safe way to salvation, against Mr. Knot the Jesuit: I will not say, Malo nodo malus quaerendus est cuneus, but affirm no person better qualified than this Author, with all necessary accomplishments to encounter a Jesuit. It is commonly reported that Dr. Prideaux compared his book to a Lamprey, fit for food if the venemous string were taken p. 340out of the back thereof: a passage in my opinion inconsistent with the Doctors approbation, prefixed in the beginning of his book. This William Chillingworth was taken prisoner by the Parliament Forces at Arundel castle, and not surprised and slain in his studi…es, as Archimedes at the sacking of Syracuse, (as some have given it out) but w…s safely conducted to Chichester, where notwithstanding hard usage hastened his dissolution.

DANIEL FEATLY D. D. was born in (or very near to) the City of Oxford, his father being a servant of Corpus-Christi college, and this his son Fellow thereof. Here he had the honour to make the Speech in the College, at the Funeral of Dr. Reynalds.

Some men may be said to have mutinous parts, which will not obey the commands of him who is the owner of them: Not so this Doctor, who was perfect Master of his own Learning. He did not, as Quintilian saith of some, Occultis thesaur is incumbere; but his learning was, in numerato, for his present using thereof. He was as good in the Schools as in the Pulpit, and very happy in his Disputes with Papists; for in the Conference with F. Fisher, (when Fisher was caught in his own Net) though Dr. White did wisely cast that Net, Dr. Featly did help strongly to draw it to the shore.

It seems, though he was in, yet he was not of, the late Assembly of Divines; as whose body was with them, whilest his heart was at Oxford: Yea, he discovered so much in a Letter to the Archbishop of Armagh, which being intercepted he was proceeded against as a Spie, and closely imprisoned, though finding some favour at last, he dyed in the Prison College at Chelsey, Anno Dom. 1643. His Wifes son hath since communicated to me his Pocket-Manual of his memorable observations, all with his own hand; but alas to be read by none but the writer thereof.

JOHN WHITE (descended from the Whites in Hant-shire) was born at **Where his father held a Lease from New-college.StantonSt. Johns in this County, bred first in Winchester, then New-college in Oxford, whereof he was Fellow; and fixed at last a Minister at Dorchester in Dorcet-shire well nigh forty years. A grave man, yet without moroseness, as who would willingly contribute his shot of facetiousness on any just occasion. A constant Preacher, so that in the course of his Ministery he expounded the Scripture all over, and half over again; having an excellent faculty in the clear and solid interpreting thereof. A good Governor, by whose wisdom the Town of Dorchester (notwithstanding a casual merciless fire) was much enriched; Knowledge causing Piety, Piety breeding Industry, and Industry procuring Plenty unto it. A beggar was not then to be seen in the Town, all able Poore being set on work, and impotent maintained by the profit of a publique Brew house, and other collections.

He absolutely commanded his own Passions, and the purses of his Parishioners, whom he could wind up to what height he pleased on important occasions. He was free from covetousness, if not trespassing on the contrary: and had a Patriarchal influence both in Old and New-England, yet towards the end of his dayes Factions and fond Opinions crept in his flock; a new generation arose, which either did not know, or would not acknowledge this good man; disloyal persons, which would not pay the due respect to the Crown of his old age, whereof he was sadly and silently sensible.

He was chosen one of the Assembly of Divines, and his judgment was much relied on therein. He married the sister of Dr. Burges, the great Non-conformist, (who afterwards being reclaimed wrote in the defence of Ceremonies) by whom he left four sons, and dyed quietly at Dorchester, Anno Dom. 164..

I hope that **Eccles. 9. 15Eccl 9:15Solomons observation of the poor wise man, who saved the little City, [Yet no man remembred him] will not be verified of this Town, in relation to this their deceased Pastor, whom I hope they will not, I am sure they should not, forget, as a person so much meriting of them in all considerations. His Comment on some part of Genesis is lately set forth, and more daily expected.

p. 341Benefactors to the Publick since the Reformation.

THOMAS TISDALL, of Glimpton in this County, Esquire; deceasing Anno 1610. bequeathed five thousand pounds to George Abbot then Bishop of London, John Bennet Knight, and Henry Aray Doctor of Divinity, to purchase Lands for the maintainance of seven Fellows and six Scholers: which money deposited in so careful hands, was as advantagiously expended for the purchase of two hundred and fifty pounds per annum. It fell then under consideration, that it was pity so great a bounty (substantial enough to stand of it self) should be **Some intentions there were to have made it an addition to Baliol Colledge.adjected to a former Foundation; whereupon a new College (formerly called Broad-gates-hall in Oxford) was erected therewith by the name of Pembroke-College, which since hath met with some considerable Benefactors. May this the youngest College in England have the happiness of a youngest child, who commonly have in their mothers love, what they lack in the land of their father.

We must not forget, that the aforesaid Thomas Tisdall gave many other charitable Legasies, and deserved very well of Abington-school, founding an Usher therein.

Memorable Persons.

ANNE GREENE, a person unmarried, was indicted, arraigned, cast, condemned and executed, for killing her child, at the Assizes at Oxford, Decemb. 14. 1650. After some hours her body being taken down, and prepared for dissection in the Anatomyschools, some heat was found therein, which by the care of the Doctors was improved into her perfect recovery. Charitable people interpret her so miraculous preservation a Compurgator of her innocence. Thus she intended for a dead, continues a living Anatomy of divine Providence, and a monument of the wonderful contrivances thereof. If Hippolytus, revived onelyonly by Poetical fancies, was surnamed Virbius, because twice a man; why may not Mulierbia, by as good proportion, be applied to her? who since is married, and liveth in this County in good reputation.

Lord Mayors.

The Names of the Gentry of this County returned by the Commissioners in the twelfth year of King Henry the sixth.

Tho. Wikeham, chiv.

Lodowici Grevill

Iohannis Wisham

Iohan. Banufo

Humphridi Hay

Iohannis Tyso

Will. Thomlyns

Thome Andrey

Thome atte Mille

Iohannis Benet

Rad. Archer

Ioh. Archer

Thome Willes

Iohannis Perysson

Ioh. Crosse de Sibford

Thome Eburton

Thome Kynch

Willielmi Brise

Willielmi Dandy

Richardi Stanes

Iohannis Wallrond

Iohannis Daypoll

Iohannis Fabian

VVill. Page

Iohannis Mose

Williel. Seton

Iohannis Pytte

Thome Helmeden

Tho. Scholes

Thome Sperehawke

Thome Gascoine

Thome Clere

Ioh. Goldwell

Williel. Goldwell

Iohannis White

Thome Lynne

Will. Smith de Bloxham

Thome Chedworth

Willielmi Haliwell

p. 342Ioh. Chedworth

Ioh. de Berford

Robert: Q…inaton

Richardi atte Mille

Willielmi Mason

Willielmi almer

Thome Tymmes

Ioh. Cross de Drayton

Alexandri Byfeld

Iob. Andrew de Bodycote

Thome Serchesden

Theme Feteplace, ar.

Tho. Hastyng, ar.

Will. wallweyn, ar.

Ioh. Hille ar.

Ioh. Lcmilt

Thome Mayor

Iohannis Hood

Will. Gayte

Iohannis Martyn

Thome Martyn

…ill. Fycheler

Will. Brayn

Nicholai Wenne

Iohannis Leche

Will. Leche

Richardi Fremantle

Roberti Carpenter

…icardi Colas

…ill. Coteler

Richardi Coteler

Iohannis Punter

Henrici Suthwik

I…hannis Fawlour

Iohannis Mos…er

Ioh Wynchelcombe

Will. Style

Thome Vyncent

…ohannis Bcdyll

Iohannis Trilling

Thome Marshall

Iohannis Walker

Will. walker

Simonis Walker

Thome Brys

Thome Mede

Ioh. Freman de Pole

Thome Chalkele

Ioh. Godef…llawe

Iohannis Abraham

Iohannis Turfray

Richardi Howkyn

Rob. Bocher de Witteney

Iohannis Rous

Stephani Cornewaill

Iohannis Iurdan

Iohannis Bronne

Iohannis Willeney

W…llielmi Fellawe

Iohannis Pere

Iohan. Bray

Richardi Wellwe

Willielmi Wynn

Will. Whittington

Willielmi Dagbill

Will. Dustelyng

Iohannis Danvers

Thome Mason

Iohan. Ayl…sworth

Iohan. Waver

Hen…ici Frebody

Richardi Ha…pour

VVill. Shitford

Roberti Shitford

Hugonis Culworthe

Ioh. Danus … dynton

Richardi Touchestre

Thome Blexham

Rogere Predy

VVill. Drynkwater

Thome VVykham de Swalelyf

VVill. VVillingham

Roberti Campden

VValteri Snappe

Richardi Ru…e

Thome Spycer

Ioh. Draper

Thome Peny

Thome Harys

Iohannis Flore

Will. Rothe

Ioh. Etterton

VVill. VVitteney

Will. Wych

Ioh. Potter

Ioh. Fletewell

Richardi Eton

Ioh. …arner

Will. Standell

Richardi Sclaytey de Shorldbury

Ioh. Folke

Tho. Takle Bayle

Thome Abbatis de Eynesham

Richardi Walkestede, chiv.

Ioh. Blount, ar.

Will. Marmyon

Thome Halle

Ioh. Lydier

Will. Berkingham

Will. Rash

Ioh. Whighthill

Roberti Croxford

Thome Carwell

Thome Yerman

Ioh. Somerton

Will. Somerton

Roberti Hare Court

Simonis Somerton

Thome Harlyngrigge

Will. Horncastle

Ioh. Yerman

Ioh. Colles

Ioh. Bourman de Dadyngton

Thome Magon

Thome Pricket

Thome Pebworth

Walteri Jouster

Rogeri Jouster

Ioh. Cobwell

Ioh. Bingham

Ioh. Tymmes

Will. Frere

Thome Maykyn

Richardi Tanner de Wod…stock

Willielmi Weller

Ioh. Swift

Richardi Stevenes

Richardi Marchall

Richardi Chapman

Thome Snareston

Ioh. Bridde

Richardi Aston

Will. Parsons

Thome Payne

Ioh. Nethercote

Stephani Humpton

Will. Romney

Ioh. Romney

Roberti Rye

Will. Swift

Will. Harryes

Ioh. Tanner de Eynesham

Will. Madle

Thome Millward

Ioh. Fisher

Ioh. Webbe

Edm. Rammesby

Iacobi Howes

Iac. Bocher de Stunsfeld

Ioh. Megre

Ioh. Ha…e de Barton

Phillippi Frere

Ioh. Frere

Ioh. Stowe

Ioh. Knight

Ioh. Kemster

Will. Kemster

Rob. Quaynaton

Rob. More, ar.

Rob. Alkerton

Ioh. Chorleton

Ioh. Eburton, jun.

Ioh. Eburton, sen.

Thome Eburton

Ioh. Yonge

Ioh. Balle

Thome Balle

Ioh. Eureshawe

Galfridi Crewe

Will. Tommys

Will. Ayltan

Ioh. Stokes

Ioh. Walle

Will. Smith de Chepyng Norton

Iohannis Howes

Thome Howes

Willielmi Hide

Rogeri Milton

Iohannis Stacy

Richardi Gurgan

Iohannis Halle

Iohannis Sampson

Willielmi Sampson

Thome Churchehill

Thome Cogeyn

Willielmi Cogeyn

Richardi Bury

Willielmi Houchyns

Iohannis Channdyt

Willielmi Bagge

Will. Rollandright

Thome Fayreford

Ioh. Martyn

Thome Tackle

Will. Weller

Ioh. Maynard

Richardi Couper de Eastan

Will. Wrench o h. Halle de ShorIthamton

Willielmi Tunford

p. 343Iohannis Tunford

Iohannis Parkyns

Rob. Raynald

Ioh. Mucy

Will. Carter de Overnorton

Tho. Balle de parva Rowlan-right

Ioh. Hammond

Ioh. Halle

Ioh. Payne

Ioh. Shawe

Ioh. Silver

Ioh. Brewes

Tho. Spillesby

Ioh. Salman

Ioh. Potter, jun. Prioris de Burcestre

Ioh. Langeston

Rogeri Powre

Will. Anderne

Ioh. Aston

Ioh. Cornwaile

Richardi Purcell

Iacobi Samwell

Rich. Fitz▪water

Tho. Wyonb…ssh

Ioh. Togood

Rich. Togood

Ioh. Spere

Ioh. Shoue

Nicholai Norris

Thome Chapman

Willielmi Durbare

Thome Hoggys

Thome Gurdon

Tho. Markham

Iohannis Lile

Iohannis Sylvester

Iohannis Balegh

Iohannis Chantclere

Ioh. Huntingdon

Will. Baldyngton

Iohan. Burdon

Iohannis Fellipps de Overfayford

Iohaunis Fellipps de Netherfayford

Ioh. Smith de Mellington

Thome Smith de eadem

Iohan. Notebene de Fencote

Will. Fitz water

Ioh. Felmersham

Iohannis Abbatis de Oseneye

Iohannis Abbatis de Thame

Edm. Prioris sancti Frideswide

Tho. Baldington, jun.

Tho. Baldington, sen.

Ioh. Iacket

Thome Welles

Thome Longe

Ioh. Ellys

Rob. Crakeall

Willielmi Tyller

Ioh. Dogge

Andree Sparewe

Will. Loy, sen.

Ioh. Chamberleyn

Ioh. Shrovcbury

Roberti Reve

Ioh. Fryday

Ioh. Mayhon

Ioh. Hamond

Will. Halfeknight

Hugonis Benet de Thame

VVill. Collyngrig

Thome Credy

Ioh. Savage bayly

Ioh. Clifton Abbatis Dorcacestr.

Ioh. Harpeden, chiv.

Hug. Wolf, chiv.

Thome Chancer, ar.

Rich. Drayton, ar.

Rich. Restold, ar.

Petri Feteplace, ar.

Will. Wikham, ar.

Ioh. Fitz-Elys, ar.

Reg. Barantyn, ar,

Will. Lynde, ar.

Rob. Simeon, ar.

Drugonis Barantyn

Ioh. Bedford

Edmundi Forster

Rich. Gilot

Thome Chibenhurst

Thome atte Hide

Rogeri Radle

Petri Shotesbroke

Iohannis Hide

Will. Ravenyng

Willielmi Borde

Williel. Skyrmet

Iohannis Elmes

Thome Vine

Ioh. Hertilpole

Tho. Clerk bayly

Ioh. Bayly de Puriton

Iohannis Badley

VVill. Bosenhe

Thome Bartelot

Rich. Calday

Iohannis Crips

Williel. North

Iohannis atte Water

Roberti atte Water

Rich. Forster

Thome Denton

Thome atte Well de Garsingden

Iohannis Holt

Nicholai Neuby

Ioh. Thomley

Will. Bele

Iohannis Lowe

Rob. Hye

Ioh. Bullery

Ioh. Fitz Aleyn

Ioh. Waly by clerici

Thome Tretherf…t

Tho. Balingdon, sen.

Ioh. Smith

Ioh. Skynner

Rich. English

Rob. Powlegh

Nich. atte Water

Iohannis Hawe

Thome Dodde

Thome Bartelet

Will. Padenale

Ade Hastyng

Ioh. …

Tho Baker de Watlington

Richardi Hurry

Ioh. Tours

Thome Muttyng

Thome Deven

Ioh. Martyn

Will. Somer

Ioh. Romsey

Ioh. Yonge

Will. Caturmayn

…ill. Hervey

Hen. Benefeld

Will. North

Nicholai Wotton de Kingston

Ioh. Temple

Ioh. Fynamour

Rich. Malpas

Ioh. Boure

Rob. Gorewey

Ioh. Stafford

Rich. Saddock

Ioh. atte Lee

Will. Derenden.

The Commissioners in this County appear over-diligent in discharging their trust: For, whereas those in other Shires flitted onelyonly the Cream of their Gentry, it is suspicious that here they made use of much thin Milk, as may be collected from their numerousness in a County of so small content. I could wish they had spent part of their pains on some other places, seeing we have so little of great, and nothing of some Shires in this kind. But I see nothing will here fall out adequate to our desires in all particulars, but still we shall conceive our selves to have cause to complain, of something redundant and something defective.

p. 344Sheriffs.

Although Oxford and Berk-shires be divided by the Thames, and in the Saxon Heptarchy were under two different Kingdoms, Oxford-shire belonging to Mercia, and Berk-shire to the West Saxons; yet after the Conquest they were united under one Sheriff, untill the nineth year of Queen Elizabeth, as by their Catalogue formerly presented in Berk-shire doth plainly appear: Since that year for the more effectual discharge of the Office, and greater ease of the Subjects, each have had several Sheriffs, and Oxford-shire as followeth:

Q. Elizabeth.

11. WILLIAM TAVERNER, Arm.]

This was he, who in the year of his Sherivalty came to Oxford, and went up into the Pulpit at St. Maries with a sword by his side, and a gold chain about his neck; where he made a Sermon (or an Oration rather) to the University, the stuff, or rather bombace whereof we have set down in our Ecclesiastical History. Now though this was an odde act wherein his zeal was conceived by most to trespass on his discretion, yet was p. 345it born the better in those darker dayes from a person well-affected in Religion, and abhorring to invade the Ministerial Function.

18. ROBERT DOYLE, Mil.]

This year (if I mistake not) were the black Assizes at Oxford, wherein (contrary to the common course) the Prisoners caused the death of the Judge, (Chief-Baron Bell) the Sheriff, some of the Lawyers, many of the Justices, and most of the Jury; besides other persons of Quality there present. It was generally imputed to the stench of the prisoners clothes and bodies: for whereas other offensive smells are open enemies, and violently assaulting the brain warn men in some sort to avoid or resist them; a Gaolstench trecherously pretendeth alliance, (as made of man-sweat) and so insinuates it self with the less suspicion and more danger into the spirits.

31. WILLIAM CLARKE, Arm.]

He was son, or (if the same with Sir VVilliam Clarke, Sheriff in the 10. of K. James) grand-child to Sir John Clarke of Northampton-shire in the 21. of K. Henry the eight, whose Armes, with the honourable augmentation, and the worthy cause thereof, are there largely described.

36. RICHARD PENYS, Mil.]

He was a worthy Gentleman, and bred Fellow (being the Founders Kinsman) of Newcollege in Oxford. He was also lineally descended from James Lord Say and Seal, Tresurer of England, in the reign of K. Henry the sixth, and in consideration thereof was 1. Jacobi created Lord Say and Seal. He dyed Anno Dom. 1612. William Fenys, his eldest son, was since created Viscount Say and Seal, and is still alive.

K. Charles I.

3. RICHARD WENMAN, Mil.]

This worthy Knight was by K. Charles the first created, first Baron Wenman of Chilmaynam in the County of Dublin, and then Viscount Wenman, of Tuant in the County of Galloway, both in the Kingdom of Ireland, by Letters Patents dated at Cambrey the 25. of July 1628. 4 Caroli.

The Farewell.

As for the poorer sort of Husbandmen in this County, I wish there may be more Sir Henry Kebles for their sakes: This Knight (though a Native of London, and Lord Mayor thereof) had such an affection for this and Warwick-shire, that he singled out an hundred and fifty of the poorest Husbandmen therein, and gave each of them a new **Stows Survey of London, p. 89Plough-share and a new Coulter of Iron; and in my mind that is the most charitable Charity, which inableth decayed industry to follow its Vocation.