The History of the Worthies of England, Part 2 · County 23

The History of the Worthies of England · Part 2 · County 23

p. 125LEIGESTERSHIRE.

LEICESTER-SHIRE. This County is (though not exquisitely) circular in the form, whilst Leicester the Shire-Town is almost the exact Center thereof, and the River Soare, Diameterlike, divides it into two equal halfes. Having Lincolne, and Rutland-shire on the East, Darby and Nottingham-Shire on the North, Warwick-Shire on the West, and Northampton-Shire on the South. It extendeth from North to South thirty and three miles (measured from the utmost Angle) but exceedeth not twenty seven in the Breadth thereof.Burton in his Description of Leicester-shire. pag. 2.

Here … avoid all offence we … collect the Quality of this Soyle from a * Native thereof. Who may be presumed exact in this Quadri-Partition.

However these four Quarters being put together into the Body of one Shire, competently supply their mutual defects.

Natural Commodities.

Beans.

Plenty of these in this County, especially about Barton in the Beans, in the Hundred of Sparkhen-Hoe, where they appear like a Forrest toward the time of Harvest. Wherefore the Scouts of Charles Duke of Burgundie, who mistook a Field full of high **Phil. Comincus lib. 1. cap. 11..thistles, near unto Paris, for the Army of the King of France, with their lances held upright, might here commit the like mistake with more probability. Though Beans be generally beheld, but as horse and hog-graine, yet were they mans * meat, even in the2 Sam. 17. 28 & Ezek. 49.2 Sam 17:28 plentiful Country of Canaan, called foreign Pholl in the Hebrew, whence some deduce the word Pulse, though none dare affirm that Daniel his Pulse was made thereof. But more of this**In the Proverb, of Beanbelly Leicestershire. Grain hereafter.

Cole.

These are digg'd up plentifully at Cole-Orton, in the Hundred of West Goscot. I say Cole-Orton, for there is another Village called Cold-Orton in this Shire. An addition, which no lesse truly than sadly would be prefixed to most Towns in this County, if not warmed in VVinter with this under-ground-fewell, that above-ground is so much decayed.

I confess foreign, a Treasure of Coles, passeth both in the Greek and Latine Proverb, for a frustrated Expectation, and his hopes fall very low, who, looking for Gold, either in Specie or in Oar…, lighteth only on a heap of Coles, which anciently used to be buryed in the Earth, for boundaries or**Austin de civitate lib. 21. c. 4. limits of lands. However such Mines of Coles as these, without any help of Alcumy, are quickly turned into Gold and Silver, sold at good rates to the Countryes round about.

Manufactures in this County are not to be expected, for where the Husbandmans Acre-Staffe, and the Shepheards-hook are as in this County in Staie, there they engross all to themselves, and command Manufactures to observe their distance from them.

The Buildings.

This County afordeth no Cathedralls, and as for the Parish-Churches therein, they may take the Eye, not ravish the admiration of the beholder. Bottsford, is one of the primest, very fair and large, with a high Spire Steeple. At the Suppression of Abbeys, many ancient Monument, of the Albanies and Rosses, were removed p. 126hither out of the Priory of Beaver, by the command of Thomas Earl of Rutland, and pity it was, that his commendable care was not imitated in other places.

As for ci…il Structures, there is a seeming parity betwixt many fair Houses in this Shire, only something Monarchical (above the ordinary Aristocracy of Fabricks) apppears in the heigth, strength and workmanship of the Stone Tower, built by William Lord Hastings at Ashby de la-Zouch. Also the fair, large, and beautiful pallace, built at Broadgate, by Thomas Grey Marquess of Dorset, challengeth the preheminence above the rest.

The Wonders.

There is a Village in this County named Charleton, sirnamed Curley, and all that are born therein, have an harsh and wratling kind of Speech, uttering their words with much difficulty and wharling in the Throat, and cannot well pronounce the Letter R. Surely this proceedeth not from any natural imperfection in the Parents (whence probably the Tribual **Judg. 12. 6.Judg 12:6Lisping of the Ephramites did arise) because their children born in other places, are not haunted with that Infirmity. Rather it is to be imputed to some occult quality in the Elements of that Place. Thus a learned Author **Jo. Bodin Method. Hist. cap. 5.informeth us, that some Families at Labloin in Guyen in France, do naturally stut and stammer, which he taketh to proceed from the nature of the Waters.

As for the inability distinctly to pronounce R. it is a catching disease in other Counties. I knew an **Mr. Ios. Mede.Essex man, as great a Scholar as any in our age, who could not for his life utter, Carolus Rex Britanniae without stammering. The best was, the King had from him in his hearty prayers, what he wanted in his plain pronunciation.

My Father hath told me, that in his time, a Fellow of Trinity Colledge, probably a Native of Charleton in this County, sensible of his own imperfection herein, made a Speech of competent length with select words both to his Mouth and for his Matter, without any R. therein, to shew that Men may speak without being beholding to the Dogs Letter.

Proverbs.

Bean-belly Leicester-shire.]

So called from the great plenty of that grain growing therein. Yea, those in the neighbouring Counties, use to say merrily, Shake a Leicester-shire Yeoman by the Collar, and you shall hear the Beans rattle in his belly; But those Yeomen smile at what is said to rattle in their bellies, whilst they know good silver ringeth in their Pockets.

Indeed I read a Latine Proverb, A Fabis abstineto, Forbear beans; whereof some make a civil interpretation, meddle not with matters of State, because anciently men cast in a Bean, when they gave their Suffrages in publick elections; others expound it physically, because Beans are windy and discompose the tranquillity of mens minds, by their slatuous evaporation; the reason assigned for the general report that Pythagoras prohibited the eating of them to his Scholars. Yet an excellent **… apud A. Gellium lib. 4. cap. 11.Authour informs me, that Pythagoras had his repast on Beans more than on any kind of pulse.

However nothing will put Leicester-shire men out of conceit of their beloved Beans, the rather because their plenty argueth the goodnesse of their ground. For, whereas lean land will serve for puling pease and faint fetches, it must be a strong and fruitful soyle indeed, where the masculine Beans are produced.

If Bever have **Burtons Description of Leicester-…. pa…. 2.a capp,]

You Churles of the Vale look to that.]

That is, when the Clouds (as he expoundeth it) hang over the Towers of the Castle, it is a prognostick of much rain and moisture, to the much indamaging of that fruitful Vale, lying in the three Counties of Leicester, Lincoln, and Nottingham. But alas, though the cap may be there still, the head (or the crown thereof) I am sure is not there, [I mean Beaver Castle it self] being lately demolished in our Civil Wars, though I hear some part thereof is in rebuilding. I wish the Workmen good success, though I suspect the second Edition (to use a Scholars Metaphor) of this Castle, will not be …o full and fair as the former.

p. 127Princes.

IANE GREY, **Her life is wri…ten at large in my Holy State.eldest Daughter of HENRY GREY, Duke of Suffolk, by Francis …, Eldest Daughter to Mary, second Sister to King Henry the eighth, was born at Broadgates, near unto Leicester.

No Lady which led so many pious, lived so few pleasant Dayes, whose soul was never out of the Non-age of Afflictions, till Death made her of full years to inherit Happiness; so severe her Education.

VVhilest a childe, her Father's, was to her an House of Correction, nor did she write Woman, sooner than she did subscribe Wife, and in Obedience to her Parents, was unfortunately matched to the L. Guilford Dudley; yet he was a goodly, and (for ought I …ind to the contrary) a Godly Gentleman, whose worst fault was, that he was Son to an ambitious Father.

She was proclaimed but never crowned Queen, living in the Tower, which Place, though it hath a double capacity, of a Palace, and a Prison, yet appeared to her chiefly in the later Relation.

For She was longer a Captive than a Queen therein, taking no contentment all the time, save what she found in God, and a clear Conscience.

Her Family, by snatching at a Crown which was not, lost a Coronet, which was their own, much degraded in Degree, and more in Estate. I would give in an Inventory of the vast Wealth they then possessed, but am loth to grieve her surviving Relations with a List of the Lands lost by her Fathers attainture. She suffered on Tower-Hill, … on the twelfth of February.

KATHARINE GREY was second Daughter to Henry Duke of Suffolk. Tis pity to part the Sisters, that their Memories may mutually condole and comfort one another. She was born in the same place, and (when her Father was in height) married to Henry Lord Herbert, Son and Heir to the Earl of Pembroke; bu… the politick old Earl, perceiving the case altered, and what was the high way to Honour, turned into the ready road to Ruin, got pardon from Queen Mary, and brake the marriage quite off.

This Heraclita, or Lady of Lamentation thus repudiated, was seldome seen with dry eyes for some years together, sighing out her sorrowful condition; so that though the Roses in her Cheeks looked very wan and pale, it was not for want of watering. Afterward Edward Seymour Earl of Hertford married her privately without the Queens Licence, and concealed till her pregnancy discovered it.

Indeed our English Proverb, It is good to be near a kin to Land, holdeth in private patrimonies, not Titles to Crowns, where such Aliances hath created to many much molestation. Queen Elizabeth beheld her with a jealous Eye, unwilling she should match either Forreign Prince or English Peer, but follow the pattern she set her of constant Virginity.

For their Presumption, this Earl was fined fifteen thousand pounds, imprisoned with his Lady in the Tower, and severely forbidden her company. But Love and Money will find or force a passage. By bribing the Keeper he bought (what was his own) his Wifes Embraces, and had by her a surviving Son Edward, Ancestor to the Right Honourable the Duke of Somerset, She dyed January 26. a Prisoner in the Tower 1567. after nine years durance therein.

MARY GREY the youngest Daughter, frighted with the Infelicity of her two Elder Sisters, Jane and this Katharine, forgot her Honour to remember her Safety, and married one whom she could love, and none need fear, Martin Kayes of Kent Esq. who was a Judge at Court (but only of Doubtful casts at Dice, being Se…jeant-Porter) and died without Issue, the 20. of April 1578.

Martyrs.

HUGH LATIMER was born at Thurcaston in this County, what his Father was, and how qualified for his State, take from his own mouth, in his first Sermon beforeFox acts and Monuments. King Edward, being confident the Reader will not repent his pains in perusing it.* Pag. 32.

p. 128My Father was a Yeoman, and had no Lands of his own; onelyonly he had a Farme of three or four Pounds a Year at the uttermost, and hereupon he tilled so much as kept halfe a dozen men, he had walk for an Hundred Sheep, and my Mother milked thiry Kine, he was able, and did finde the King an HARNESS with himself, and his Horse, whilest he came unto the Place, that he should receive the Kings Wages. I can remember I buckled his Harness when he went to Black Heath Field. He kept me to School, or else I had not been able to have Preached before the Kings Majestie now. He married my Sisters with Five Pounds, or twenty Nobles a piece: so that he brought them up in Godliness and Fear of God: He kept Hospitallity for his Poor Neighbours, and some Almes: He gave to the Poor, and all this did he of the same Farme, where he that now hath it, payeth sixteen pounds by the Year and more, and is not able to do any thing for his Prince, for himself, nor for his Children, or give a Cup of Drink to the Poor.

He was bred in Christ's Colledg, in Cambridg, and converted under God by Mr. Bilney, from a Violent Papist to a Zealous Protestant. He was afterwards made Bishop of Worcester, and four Years after outed, for refusing to subscribe the six Articles: How he was martyred at Oxford 1555. is notoriously known.

Let me add this Appendix to his Memory, when the Contest was in the House of Lords, in the Raign of K. Henry the Eighth, about the giving all Abby Lands to the King▪ There was a Division betwixt the Bishops of the Old and New Learning; for by those Names they were distinguished. Those of the Old Learning unwillingly willing▪ were contented, that the King should make a Resumption of all those Abbies which his Ancestors had founded, leaving the rest to continue according to the Intention of their Founders. The Bishops of the new Learning were more pliable to the Kings Desires, Only Latimer was dissenting, earnestly urging, that two Abbies at the least, in every Diocess of considerable Revenues, might be preserved for the Maintenance of Learned men therein. Thus swimming a good while against the stream, he was at last carried away with the Current.

Eminent Prelates before the Reformation.

GILBERT SEGRAVE Born at Segrave in this County, was bred in Oxford, where he attained to great Learning, as the Books written by him do declare. The first Preferment I find conferred on him was, The Provosts place of St. Sepulchers in York, and the occasion how he obtained it is remakable.

The Pope had formerly bestowed it on his near Kinsman, which argueth the good value thereof, seeing neither Eagles, nor Eagles Birds do feed on Flyes. This Kinsman of the Popes lying on his death bed, was troubled in **Bishop Godw. in vita T. Corbridge.Conscience (which speak…eth loudest when men begin to be speechlesse, and all Sores pain most when nere night) that he had undertaken such a Cure of Souls upon him, who never was in England, nor understood English, and therefore requested the Pope his Kinsman, that after his Death the Place might be bestowed on some Learned English-man, that so his own absence and negligence might in some sort be repaired by the Residence and diligence of his Successor, And this Segrave to his great Credit, was found the fittest Person for that Performance. He was afterwards preferred Bishop of London sitting in that See not full four years, dying Anno Dom. 1317.

WALTER DE LANGTON was born at VVest-langton in this County. He was highly in favour with King Edward the first, under whom he was Bishop of Coventry and Liechfield, and Treasurer of England. He granted him also Liberty of free **… Description of this County. pag. 257.Warren in VVest and Thorpe Langton in this County the Patrimoniall inheritance of this Prelate. VVith his own innocence and friends assistance, at long sailing he weathered out the Tempest of the Popes displeasure.

Longer did he groan under the undeserved Anger of King Edward the second, chiefly, because this Bishop sharply reproved him when as yet but Prince for his **Godwin in the Bishops of … and WellsDebauchery.

See here the great difference betwixt youth, some hopefully, some desperately p. 129riotous. Of the former was Henry the fifth, who when King, is said to have rewarded and advanced such, who had reproved and punished him when Prince. Of the latter was King Edward, not only wild but mad in his vitiousnesse. But our Langton at length, was brought saith my **T. WalsinghamAuthor in Regis Semigratiam into the Kings half favour, let me add & in populi sesquegratiam, and into the peoples favour and half, who highly loved and honoured him.

His tragicomical life, had a peaceable end in Plenty and Prosperity, He found his Cathedral of Li…hfield mean, and left it magnificent, and it will appear by the instance of our Langton, Josseline of Wells and others, that Bishops continuing unremoved in their See, have atcheived greater matters then those who have been often translated, though to richer Bishopricks. Indeed prodigious was his bounty in building and endowing his Cathedral, wherein he continued almost 25. years, and dying 1321. was buryed in the Chappel of St. Mary of his own erection.

ROGERDE **Bishop Godwin writeth h…m Mortivall.MARTIVAL Son and Heir of Sir Aukitell de Martivall Kt. (who gave for his Arms Argent a Cinque foyle Sable) was born at Nowsley in this County. He was first Arch-Deacon of Leicester, then Dean of Lincoln, and at last consecrated Bishop of Salisbury, in the Reign of King Edward the Second 1315. Now seeing Bishop Godwin, hath nothing more of him save his Name and Date, it is charity further to inform Posterity that he was the last heir male of his house, and founded a Colledg at **… in the Description of this County. Pag. 211.Nowsley, temp. Edw. 1. for a Warden and certain Brethren, which in the 24. of Hen. 6. was valued to dispend yearly (besides all charges) 6. l. 13. 5. 4. d. His estate descended to Joyce de Martivall his Sister, married unto Sir Ralph Hastings lineal Ancestor to the now Earl of Huntington. As for the Mannor of Nowsley as it came by the mother, so it went away with her Daughter, into the Family of the Herons; and by her Daughter into the Family of the Hazleriggs, who at this day are the Possessors thereof. This Bishop dyed in the midst of Lent, 1329.

ROBERT WIVIL was born of worthy and wealthy parentage at **B…rton in his Description of Leicesler shire. pag. 269. ▪Stanton Wivil in this County, at the Instance of Philippa Queen to King Edward the Third, the Pope, Anno 1329. preferred him Bishop of Salisbury. It is hard to say whether he were more Dunce or Dwarfe, more unlearned or unhansome, insomuch that T. Walsingham tells us, that had the Pope ever seen him (as no doubt he felt him in his large Fees) he would never have conferred the Place upon him.

He sate Bishop more then 45. years, and impleaded William Mountague Earl of Salisbury in a Writ of Right for the Castle of Salisbury. The Earl chose the Trial by Battell, which the Bishop accepted of, and both produced their Champions into the Place. The Combatant for the Bishop coming forth all clad in white, with the bishops own **Go…win in the Bishops of Salisbury. … ut prius.Arms (viz.) (Gules Fretty Varee, * a Chief Or) empailed no doubt with them of his See on his Surcote.

Some highly commended the Zeal of the Bishop asserting the Rights of his Church, whilest others condemned this in him, as a unprelatical act, God allowing Duells no competent Deciders of such Differences. And moderate men to find out an expedient, said, he did this not as a Bishop but Baron; the best was, the matter was taken up by the Kings interposing, and the Bishop with 2500. Marks, bought of the Earl the quiet possession of the Castle, and dyed Anno D…m. 1375. being buryed under a Marble Stone about the middle of the Quire.

Since the Reformation.

JOSEPH HAL… was born at Ashby De La Zouch, in this County, where his Father under the Earl of Huntington, was Governour or Bayly of the Town. So soon almost as Emanuel Colledge was admitted into Cambridge, he was admitted into that Colledge, within few years after the first foundation thereof. He passed all his degrees with great applause▪ First noted in the University, for his ingenuous maintaining, (be it Truth, or Paradox) that Mundus senescit, The World groweth old. Yet, in some sort, his position confuteth his position, the wit and quickness whereof did argue an increase, rather than a decay of parts in this latter age.

He was first beneficed by Sir R. Drury at Hallsted in Suffolk, and thence removed by Edward Lord Denny, (afterward Earl of Norwich) to Waltham Abbey in Essex. Here I must pay the Tribute of my Gratitude to his memory, as building upon his foundation, p. 130beholding my self, as his great Grandchild in that place, three degrees from him in succession: But oh, how many from him in ability! His little Catechisme hath done great good in that populous parish, and I could wish that Ordinance more generally used all over England.

Being Doctor of Divinity, he was sent over by K. James to the Synod of Dort, whence only indisposition of body forced him to return before the rest of his Collegues. He was preferred first Dean of Worcester, then Bishop of Exeter, then Bishop of Exeter, then Bishop of no place; surviving to see his sacred function buryed before his eyes. He may be said to have dyed with his pen in his hand, whose Writing and Living expired together. He was commonly called our English **Sir H. Wotton in his Letter to Dr. Collins.Seneca, for the purenesse, plainesse, and fulnesse of his style. Not unhappy at Controversies, more happy at Comments, very good in his Characters, better in his Sermons, best of all in his Meditations. Nor will it be amiss to transcribe the following passage out of his Will.

In the name of God, Amen. I Joseph Hall, D.D. not worthy to be called Bishop of Norwich, &c. First, I bequeath my soul, &c. my body I leave to be interred without any funeral* … R. Richard. pomp, at the Discretion of my Executors, with this only monition, that I do not hold Gods House a meet Repository for the dead bodies of the greatest Saints.

He dyed September the 8. Anno Dom. 1656. and was buryed at Hyhem near Norwich.

Statesmen.

GEORGE VILLIERS was born at Brooksby in this County, … son to his father Sir George Villiers and second son to his Mother Mary Beaumont. Being debarred (by his late Nativity) from his fathers lands, he was happy in his Mothers love, maintaining him in France, till he returned one of the compleatest Courtiers in Christendom, his body and behaviour mutually gracing one another.

Sir Tho. Lake may be said to have ushered him to the English Court, whilest the Lady Lucy Countess of Bedford led him by the one hand, and William Earl of Pembroke by the other, supplying him with a support far above his patrimonial income. The truth is, Sommersets growing daily more wearisome, made Villiers hourly more welcome to K. James.

Soon after he was knighted, created successively Baron Viscount Villiers, Earl, Marquess, Duke of Buckingham, and to bind all his honours the better together, the noble Garter was bestowed upon him. And now Offices at Court, (not being already void) were voided for him. The Earl of Worcester was perswaded to part with his place of Master of the horse, as the Earl of Nottingham with his Office of Admiral, and both conferred on the Duke.

He had a numerous and beautiful female kindred, so that there was hardly a noble Stock in England into which one of these his Cients was not grafted. Most of his Neices were matched with little more portion then their Uncles smiles, the forerunner of some good Office or Honour to follow on their Husbands. Thus with the same act did he both gratifie his kindred, and fortifie himself with noble alliance.

It is seldome seen that two Kings, (father and Son) tread successively in the same Tract as to a Favourite; but here King Charles, had as high a kindness for the Duke as K. James. Thenceforward he became the Plenipotentiary in the English Court, some of the Scottish Nobility making room for him, by their seasonable departure out of this Life. The Earl of Bristoll was justled out, the Bishop of Lincoln cast flat on the Floor, the Earls of Pembroke and Carlisle content to shine beneath him, Holland behind him, none even with, much lesse before him.

But it is generally given to him, who is the little God at the Court, to be the great Devil in the Countrey. The Commonalty hated him with a perfect hatred, and all miscarriages in Church and …, at Home, Abroad, at Sea and Land were … on his want of Wisdom, Valour or Loyalty.

John …elton a melancholy malecontented Gentleman, and a sullen Souldier, apprehending himself injured, could find no other way to revenge his conceived wrongs, then by writing them with a point of a Knife in the heart of the Duke, whom he stabbed at Portsmouth. Anno Dom. 1620. It is hard to say how many of this Nation were guilty of this murther, either by publick praising or private approving thereof.

p. 131His person from head to foot could not be charged with any blemish, save that some Hypercriticks conceived his Brows somewhat over pendulous, a cloud which in the judgement of others was by the beams of his Eyes sufficiently dispelled. The Reader is remitted for the rest of his Character, to the exquisite Epitaph on his magnificent Monument, in the Chappel of Henry the Seventh.

Capital Judges.

Sir ROBERT BELKNAP. Being bred in the Study of the Laws, he becameA M P. Chief Justice of the Common Pleas October the 8. in the 48. of King Edward the third, and so continued till the general Rout of the Judges, in the wonder-working Parliament the eleventh of Richard the second, when he was displaced on this occasion.

The King had a mind to make away certain Lords, viz. His Unkle the Duke of Glocester, the Earls of Arundel, Warwick, Darby, Nottingham, &c. Who in the former Parliament had been appointed Governors of the Kingdome. For this purpose he called all the Judges before him to Nottingham, where the Kings many Questions in fine were resolved into this, Whether he might by His Regal power revoke what was acted in Parliament. To this all the Judges, Sir VVilliam Skipwith alone excepted, answered affirmatively and subscribed it.

This Belknap underwrote unwillingly, as foreseeing the danger, and putting to his seal said these words,

There wants nothing but an hurdle an horse and an halter, to carry me where I may suffer the Death I deserve; for if I had not done this, I should have dyed for it, and because I have done it, I deserve death for betraying the Lords.

Yet, it had been more for his credit and conscience, to have adventured a Martyrdome in the defence of the Laws, then to hazzard the death of a Malefactour in the breach therof. But Judges are but men, and most desire to decline that danger, which they apprehend nearest unto them.

In the next Parliament, all the Judges were arrested in VVestminster-hall of high treason; when there was a Vacation in Term time, till their places were resupplied. Sir R. Tresilian, Cheif Justice of the Kings Bench, was executed. The rest thus named and reckoned up in the printed **Anno 11. R. 2. cap. 4.Statutes, Robert Belknap, John Holt, John Cray, William Burgh, Roger Fulthorp, all Judges and Knights, with J. Locktan Serjeant at Law, had their lands (save what were intailed) with their goods and chattels, forfeited to the King, their persons being banished, and they by the importunate intercession of the Queen, hardly escaping with their lives. Belknap is placed in this County, only because I find a worshipful family of his name fixed therein, whereof one was High Sheriff in the 17. of K. Henry the 7. Provided this be no prejudice to Sussex, the same **Cambd. Brit. in Sussex.Name being very ancient therein.

Sir ROBERT CATELIN, descended from the ancient Family of the Catelins of Raunds in Northampton shire, (as doth appear by the Heralds visitation) was born at **So I have learned by his relations.Biby in this County. He was bred in the Study of the Municipal Laws, profiting so well therein, that in the first of Q. Elizabeth, he was made Lord Cheif Justice of the Kings Bench. His Name hath some allusion to the Roman **L. Catel na.Senator, who was the Incendiary of that State, though in Nature far different, as who by his Wisdom and Gravity was a great support to his Nation.

One point of Law I have learned from him, at the Tryall of Thomas Duke of Norfolk, who pleaded out of Bracton, that the Testimonies of Forreigners (the most pungent that were brought against him) were of no Validity. Here Sir Robert delivered it for Law, that in case of Treason they might be given in for evidence, and that it rested in the Brest of the **Camd. Eliz. Anno 1572.Peers, whether or no to afford credit unto them.

He had one (as what man hath not many) Fancy, that he had a prejudice against all those, who write their Names with an alias, and took exceptions at one in this respect, saying, that no honest man had a double name, or came in with an alias. The party asked him* Idem in his Remains pag. 147. what exceptions his Lordship could take, at Jesus Christ, alias Jesus of Nazareth.

He dyed in the Sixteenth year of Queen Elizabeth, and his Coat of Arms, viz. [Party per Cheveron Azure and Or, 3 Lions passant Guardant counterchanged; a Cheif Pearl] is quartered by the Right Honourable the Lord Spencer, Earl of Sunderland, this Judges Daughter and Sole Heir being married to his Ancestor.

p. 132Some forty years since a Gentleman of his name and kindred, had a Cause in the Upper-Bench, to whom the Cheif Justice therin said, Your Kinsman was my Predecessour in the Court and a great Lawyer, My Lord (replied the Gentleman) he was a very honest man, for he left a small estate: But indeed, though his estate was not considerable, compared to his Successors then present, it was in it self of a good valuation.

Writers.

WILLIAM DE LEICESTER otherwise called William de Montibus (which I would willingly English William of the Woulds) was born in Leicester in this County, bred in Oxford, where he was Doctor and Professor of Divinity, so eminent for his Learning that he was known to and much beloved by the **Pitz. de Aug. Script. p. 285.Nobility of the land. He was also known by the name of **Idem ibidem.Mr. William an evidence I assure you sufficient to avouch his Majesterialty in all Learning.

He was removed to Lincolne, and became first Canon, then Chancelour of the Church. Boston of Bury reckoneth up many and Learned Books of his making. He flourished under King John 1210. and lyeth buryed at Lincolne.

RICHARD BELGRAVE was born saith J. **De Script. Brit. in A. 1320Pitz at Chichester in Sussex, but at Belgrave in Leicester-shire saith Mr. William Burton, whom I rather beleive, because*In hisdescription of Leicest. pag. 40. he wrote a particular Description of this County. Now surely the more is the exactness of the Authour, the less the extent of his Subject, especially making it his Set-work (what was Pits his by-work) to observe the Natives of this Shire: But both agree him to be a Carmelite, bred in Cambridge, an excellent Divine and good Schoolman, more Learned then eloquent. He wrote one Book of Theological Determinations, and another of Ordinary Questions, flourishing in the year 1220- under King Edward the Second.

ROBERT DE LEICESTER was born therein, but bred in Oxford a Franciscan Fryer. He was one of those who brought preaching into Fashion in that age, and was much esteemed for his faculty therein, by most of the Nobility. But Robert Mascall Bishop of Hereford, (as pious and learned as any in that age) had an extraordinary* Understand it after the death of …. of Leicester. affection for him. Our Leicestrian Robert appeareth also a good Chronologer, having written judiciously of the Hebrew and Roman Computation. In his reduced age, he retired to Leichfield, where he dyed and was buryed in the Monastery of the Franciscans * Pitz. de Ang. Script. hoc An.1348.

THOMAS RATCLIF born at Ratcliffe in this County, was bred an Augustinian in Leicester, where he was Ordinis sui **… Cent. 6. num. 14.Episcopus, strain the Word no higher then to overseer of his order. He had Ingenium fecundum & amplum, and pity it was, that he had, Vitae institutum sterile & angustum. However to enlarge his Soul, he wrote divers Books and flourished anno 1360.

BARTHOLOMEVV CULIE was born at Radoliffe-Culie in this County, as the exact Describer **Burton in his Description of …-shire. pag. 229.thereof avoucheth. And therefore Pitz committeth a double mistake about this One Writer, first calling him Conway, then making him a Welshman by his Nativity. How hard is it to commit one, and but one Error? This Bartholomew * In Appendice.was an excellent Philosopher, and wrote a Book of Generation and Corruption, and although J. Pitz. confesseth himself ignorant of the time he lived in, my Authour assureth me that he flourished under King Edward the third.

WILLIAM DE LUBBENHAM was born at Lubbenham in this County, brought up in Oxford, a good **Leland de Script. 265.Philosopher and a Divine, was after a White Fryer, or Carmelite in Coventry, and after became Provincial of the Order, which place he kept till he dyed. He wrote upon Aristotles Posteriors, and one Book of ordinary Questions. He dyed in the White Fryers in Coventry 1361. in the 36. year of K. Edward the Third.

JEFFERY DE HARBY was born at Harby in this County and bred in Oxford, where he became Provincial of the Augustines, and Confessor to K. Edward the Third. Wonder not when meeting with so many Confessors to that King, presuming he had but one at one time, Conscience not standing on State and variety in that kind. For know King Edward reigned 50. years, and Confessors being aged, before admitted to their place, his Vivaciousnesse did wear out many of them. Besides, living much beyond the Seas, it is probable that he had his Forraign and his Home Confessors. Our p. 133Jeffery was also of his Privy Counsel, being as prudent to advise in matters politick, as pious in spiritual concernments. Such as admired he was not preferred to some wealthy Bishoprick, must consider that he was ambitious and covetous to be poor, and wrote a violent Book in the praise and perfection thereof against Armachanus. Dying in London, he was buryed in the Church of the Augustines, about the Year 1361.

WILLIAM DE FOLVIL was born at Ashbye-Folvil in this County, and therefore when **De Scrip. Brit. cent. 6 num. 72.Bale calleth him Lincolniensem, understand him not by County, but by Diocesse. He was bred a Franciscan in the University of Cambridge, and engaged himself a great Master of defence in that doughty quarrel pro pueris induendis, that children under the age of 18. might be admitted into Monastical orders. For whereas this was then complained of as a great and general grievance; that by such preproperous Couling of Boyes, and vailing of Girles, Parents were cozened out of their children, and children cozened out of themselves, doing in their Minority they knew not what, and repenting in their maturity, not knowing what to do, our Folvil with more passion then reason, maintained the legality thereof. He dyed and was buryed in **Bale de Scrip. Brit. pag. 491.Stamford, anno 1384.

HENRY DE KNIGHTON was born at Knighton in this County, sometime Abbot of Leicester, who wrote his History from William the Conquerour, to the time of King Richard the Second, in whose Reign he dyed.

It seemeth Lelandus non vidit omnia, nor his shadow Bale, nor his shadow Pits, all three confessing that the History of this Knighton never came to their hands. Whereas of late, it hath been fairly printed with other Historians, on the commendable cost of Cornelius Bee. Thus it is some comfort and contentment to such, whom Nature hath denyed to be Mothers, that they may be drye Nurses, and dandle Babes in their Laps, whom they cannot bear in their Wombs. And thus this Industrious Stationer (though no Father) hath been Foster Father to many worthy Books, to the great profit of posterity.

WILLIAM WOODFORD. I cannot fixe his Nativity with any certainty, because so many Woods and Fords, (and would the former did continue as well as the latter) and consequently so many Towns called Woodfords in England. He is placed here, because his Surname in this age., flourished in great Eminency in this **Burton in his Description of Leicestershire. pag. 23.County. He was bred a Franciscan, and though Bilious Bale giveth him the Character of **De scrip. Brit. Cent. 7. num. 33.Indoctè Doctus, we learn from Leland, that he was one of profound Learning, and Thomas Waldensis owneth and calleth him Magistrum suum, His Master.* Libro de Sacrament. c. 50.

Indeed Woodford set him the first Copy of Railing against Wickliffe, being deputed by T. Arundel Archbishop of Canterbury to confute, publickly in Writing, his Opinions. He dyed and was buryed at Colchester 1397.

THOMAS LANGTON was born at West-Langton in this County, bred a Carmelite in London, but first brought up in Oxford. He wrote a Book of their own ordinary Acts; another called The Tryal of Henry Crump Doctor in Divinity; another Book against the Errors of the said Doctor Crump. Reader, We are beholden to my **Burton in his Description of this Shire. pag. 157.Author, for retriving this Writers memory, which otherwise appears not in Leland, Bale, or Pits. He flourished under K. Henry the fourth, anno Dom. 1400.

ROBERT DE HARBY was born at Harby in this County, bred a Carmelite in their Covent at Lincolne. He seems to be a Doctor in **Pitz. de Ang. Script. A. 1450.Divinity, and surely was a great Adorer of the Virgin Mary, writing many Sermons of her Festivities. He flourished 1450.

RICHARD TURPIN was born at Knaptoft in this County, very lately (if not still) in the possession of that antient Family, and was one of the Gentlemen of the English Garrison of Calis in France, in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth. Such Soldiers * Burton in his Description of Leicestershire. …. 153.generally in time of VVar had too much, in time of Peace to little work, to employ themselves therein. Commendable therefore the Industry of this Richard, who spent his spare hours in writing of a Chronicle of his time. He dyed Anno Domini 1541. in the*Weavers Fun. Men. pag. 682. … fifth year of the aforesaid Kings reign. This I observe the rather, that the Reader may not run with me on the rock of the same mistake, who in my apprehension confounded him with Richard Turpin the Herauld, first Blew-mantle, and then created Winsor in the beginning of Queen Elizabeth.

p. 134Writers Since the Reformation.

HENRY SMITH. Commonly called Silver-tongued Smith, Preacher at St. Clemen…s Danes. But I refer the Reader to his Life writ by me at large, and preposed to his Printed Sermons.

JOHN DUPORT D. D. Son to Tho. Duport Esquire, was born at Shepshed in this County, bred fellow, then Master of Jesus Colledge in Cambridge, once Proctour, and thrice Vice-chancelour of that University. He was one of the Translators of the Bible, and a Reverend man in his Generation, who bestowed the perpetual Advowsance of the Rectory of Harston on the Colledge. Men generally in Scripture are notified by their Fathers, seldome by their Sons, as Simon **Mark 15. 21.Mark 15:21of Cyrene father of Alexander and Rufus, Persons [no doubt] of signal worth in that Age. Thus this Doctor is remarkable for his Son (by Rachel Daughter to Richard Cox Bishop of Ely) James Duport D.D. Fellow of Trinity Colledge, and lately Greek Professor, happy in the Education of many hopefull Pupils of Worship and Honour, as they more happy in so able a Tutor. His Father D. John Duport deceased 1617.

WILLIAM BURTON Esquire, son of Ralph Burton of Lindley in this County, (who had a more ancient Inheritance belonging to his name at Falde in Staffordshire) a place remarkable, because no **Description o… Leicester-sh. pag. 174.Adder, Snake, or Lizard, (common in the Confines) were ever seen therein▪ as if it were a Land-Island and an Ireland in England▪ This VVilliam was born at Lindley, August 24. 1575. bred in Brazen-nose Colledge, and wrote an Alphabetical Description of the Towns and Villages in this County, with the Arms **Idem p. 68.and Pedegrees of the most ancient Gentry therein. The sparks of his Ingenuity herein, have since set fire on Mr. Dugdale, my worthy Friend, to do the like to Warwickshire (lately under one Sheriff with Leicester-shire) and I hope in process of time they may inflame many others into imitation, that so (give me leave to match an English and Greek word together) the County Graphy of our Land may be compleated.

ROBERT BURTON, his younger Brother, born Febr. 8. 1575. afterwards Student of Christs-Church Oxon, and Batchellor of Divinity. He wrote an excellent Book (commonly called, Democritus Junior) of the Anatomy of Melancholy (none to the Native, to describe a Countrey) wherein he hath piled up variety of much excellent Learning. On whose Tomb is this Epitaph.

Paucis notus, paucioribus `ignotus;

Hic jacet Democritus junior,

Cui vitam-pariter & mortem

Dedit Melancholia.

Scarce any Book of Philology in our Land hath in so short a time passed so many Impressions. He died Rector of Segrave (presented by his Patron George Lord Berkeley) in this County, about 1636.

RICHARD VINES was born at Blazon in this County, and bred in Magdalen Colledge in Cambridge, where he commenced Master of Arts. Now although many healthfull souls in their age, break out in their youth, he was never given to any extravagancy. Hence he was chosen School-master of Hinckley in this County, a Profession wherein many a good Minister hath been (and it is pity that any but a good man should be) imployed. Entring the Ministry, after other intermediate places (such as are his Censurers would be his Compurgators, if privie to the weighty causes of his just removal) he was fixed at last at S. Lawrence Jury in Lon…on.

An excellent Preacher, skilfull to cut out Doctrines in their true shape, naturally raised, to sew them up with strong stitches; substantially proved, and set them on with advantage on such backs, who should wear them effectually applied.

He was one (yea, I may say one of sevenscore in the Assembly.) The Champion of their Party, therefore called their Luther, much imployed in their Treaties at Uxbridge and Isle of Wight. His Majesty, though of a different Judgement, valued him for his Ingenuity, seldome speaking unto him without touching (if not moving) his Hat. Which by Master Vines was returned (though otherwise blunt and unobservant) with most respectfull Language and Gestures; which I will not say was done by all his fellow Divines there present.

p. 135He was most charitably moderate to such as dissented from him, though most constant to his own Principles; witness his forsaking of his Mastership of Pembroke-Hall for refusing of the Engagement. Such who charged him with covetuousness, are confuted with the small Estate he left to his Wife and Children.

It seemeth that the sand in his hour-glass (though sticking high on each side) was but hollow in the middle, for it sunk down on sudden. Visible decays appeared in him a year before his death, though rather in his Limbs than Parts, Spirits than Spirit. But alas, the best Mind cannot make good Musick where the Instrument of the Body is out of tune; his speech grew very low. Not a week before his death, preaching in S. Gregories, a rude fellow cried out unto him, Lift up your voice, for I cannot hear you; to whom Mr. Vines returned, Lift you up your ears, for I can speak no lowder.

Indeed his strength was much spent by his former pains, so that some suppose had he wrought less he had lived longer. He was buried Febr. the 7. 1655. in his own Parish Church, where Mr Jacome modestly and learnedly performed his Funeral Sermon. Much lamented, as by many others, so by his own Parish, where he piously indeavoured to make them all of one piece who were of different colours, and to unite their Judgements who dissented in Affections.

JOHN CLEVELAND was born in this County at Hinckley (where his Father was Vic…r) and bred therein under Mr. Ricard Vines his School-master; he was afterwards Scholar of Christs, then Fellow of S. Johns in Cambridge, and during the late Civil Wars was much conversant in the Garison of Newark, where (as I am informed) he had the place of Advocate General.

A General Artist, Pure Latinist, Exquisite Orator, and (which was his Master-piece) Eminent Poet. His Epithetes were pregnant with Metaphors, carrying in them a difficult plainness, difficult at the hearing, plain at the considering thereof. His lofty Fancy may seem to stride from the top of one Mountain to the top of another, so making to it self a constant Level and Champian of continued Elevations.

Such who have Clevelandized, indeavouring to imitate his Masculine Stile, could never go beyond the Hermophrodite, still betraying the weaker Sex in their deficient conceits. Some distinguish between the Veine and Strain of Poetry, making the former to flow with facility, the latter press'd with pains, and forced with industry. Master Cleveland's Poems do partake of both, and are not to be the less valued by the Reader, because most studied by the Writer thereof. As for his Anagram John Cleveland Heliconean Dew.

The difficult trifle I confess, is rather well endevoured then exactly performed. He dyed on Thursday morning the 29 of April 1658. at his Chamber in Greys Inne, from whence his Body was brought to Hunsdon House, and on Saturday being May day, was buryed at Colledge Hill Church, Mr. John Pearson his good friend preaching his Funeral Sermon. He rendred this reason why he cautiously declined all commending of the party deceased, because such praising of him would not be adequate to any expectation in that Auditory, seeing such who knew him not, would suspect it far above, whilest such who were acquainted with him, did know it much beneath his due desert. The self same consideration, shall put a period to my pen, in his present Character, only this I will adde, that never so eminent a Poet, was Interred with fewer (if any remarkable) Elegies upon him.

I read in an excellent **Thuanus de Obit. virorum Illustrium anno 1602.Authour, how one Joannes Passerativus, professor of the Latine Tongue in the University of Paris, being no bad Poet, (but Morose and conceited of himself) forbad by his dying words, under an Imprecation, That his Herse should be burthened with bad funeral Verses, Whereupon out of fear to offend his Ghost, very few Verses were made upon him, too much the modesty and charity of Mr. Cleveland, by any such Injunction to obstruct his friends, expressing their affection to his memory. Be it rather imputed to the Royal party, at that juncture of time generally in restraint, so that their fancies may seem in some sort to sympathize with the confining of their persons, and both in due season may be inlarged.

Of such Verses as came to my hand these were not the worst, made by my good **Mr. Edward Martin of London.Friend since deceased.

p. 136Ye Muses do not me deny

I ever was your Votary,

And tell me seeing you do daigne,

T'inspire and feed the hungry brain,

With what choice cates? with what choice fair?

Ye Cleevelands fancy still repair.

Fond man, say they, why dost thou question thus?

Ask rather with what Nectar he feeds us.

But I am informed, that there is a Book intended by the Poets of our age, in the Honour of his Memory, who was so eminent a Member of their Society.

Beńefactors to the Publick.

Sir JOHN POULTNEY Knight, was born in this County at **… Description of Leicester-shire, pag. 191.Poultney, in the Parish of Misterton, bred in the City of London, and became four times Lord Mayor thereof. He built a **Stow Survey of London, pag. 81.Colledge to the Honour of Jesus & Corpus Christi, for a Master and seven Chaplains in St. Laurence Church in Candleweek-Street in London, in the 20. of Edward the Third, which Church was after denominated of him St. Laurence Poultney. He built the Parish Church of Alhallows the lesse in Thames Street, and the Monastery of White Fryers in Coventry, and a fair Chappel on the North Side of St. Pauls in London, where he lyeth buryed, who dyed 1349. the 24. year of Edward the third, he was a great Benefactour to the Hospital of St. Giles by Holborn, and gave many great Legacies to the relief of Prisoners and the Poor.

Since the Reformation.

READER, If any demand of me the Names of the Natives of this County, Benefactors to the Publick Since the Reformation, all my Answer is, Non sum Informatus, and let the Court judge whether this be the fault of the Councel or of the Client, and I doubt not but the next age will supply the defects hereof. Only postliminio, I have by the help of my good **Mr. Rawlins one of the L. Maiors Court.friend, at last recovered one who may keep possession of the place, till others be added unto him.

ROBERT SMITH Citizen, and Merchant-Taylor of London, was born at Mercate Harborough in this County, and became Comptroller of the Chamber of London, and one of the four Attorneys in the Majors Court. A painful person in his place, witness the many remaining Monuments of his Industry whilst he acted in his Office, betwixt the years 1609. and 1617. Nor was his Piety any whit beneath his painfulness, who delivered to the Chamberlain of London, seven hundred and fifty pounds to purchase Lands for the Maintenance of a Lecturer in the Town of his Nativity, as also for several other pious uses, as in the Settlement of those Lands are particularly expressed. He dyed as I collect, about 1618.

Memorable Persons.

Know Reader, that by an unavoidable mischance, the two first following persons, who should have been entred under the Topick of Souldiers are (with no disgrace I conceive) remembered in this place.

EDMOND APPLEBIE Knight, was son to Iohn Applebie Esquire, and born at Great Applebie, whence their Family fetched their name, and where at this day **They had An. 1607.(I hope) they have their habitation. He was a mighty man of Arms, who served at the Battel of Cressy, the 20. of K. Edward the Third, where he took Mounsieur Robert d'n * … Leicester-shire. …. 14.Mailarte a Nobleman of France Prisoner. Now know though the pens of our homebred Historians may be suspected of partiality, yet English atcheivements acknowledged by French Authours, such as Froizard is, who taketh signal notice thereof; commandeth belief. Afterwards in the Eight year of Richard the Second he went into France, with Iohn of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, to treat of a peace betwixt both Kingdomes. p. 137Lastly in the Ninth of Richard the second, he accompanied the said Duke, and the Lady Constance his Wife, Daughter aud Coheir of Peter King of Castile, in his Voyage into Castile, who then went over with a great power to invest himself in the said Kingdome, which by Descent belonged to his Wife, and was then usurped by Henry base Brother unto King Peter.

JOHN HERDVVICKE Esq born at Lindley in this County, was a very Lowe Man (stature is no standard of stoutnesse) but of great Valour, Courage, and Strength, This is he, though the Tradition goeth by an unknown name, by whose good conduct,* Burton in Leicester-shire. pag. 174. Henry Earl of Richmond, afterwards King Henry the seventh, in the Battel of Bosworth, got the advantage of Ground, Wind, and Sun, each singly considerable but little lesse then an Army in themselves, when all put together. Besides he assisted him with the service of many men and great horses. He dyed One Thousand Five Hundred and Eleven, leaving six Daughters and Coheirs, and was buryed at Noneaton in Warwick-shire.

IOHN **Burton in Loicester-shire. pag. 254.POULTNEY born in Little Shepey was herein remarkable, that in his sleep he did usually rise out of his bed, dresse him, open the Dores, walk round about the Fields, and return to his Bed not wakened; sometimes he would rise in his sleep, take a …taff, Fork, or any other kind of VVeapon that was next his hand, and therewith lay about him, now striking, now defending himself, as if he were then encountred or charged with an adversary, not knowing (being awaked) what had passed. He afterwards went to Sea with that famous but unfortunate Sir Hugh Willoughby Knight, and was (together with all the Fleet) frozen to death in the North East passage, about NOVA ZEMBLA.

HENRY NOEL Esq I will incur the Readers deserved displeasure, if he appear not most memorable in his Generation. He was younger Son to Sir Andrew Noel of Dalby in this County, who for Person, Parentage, Grace, Gesture, Valour, and many other excellent parts, (amongst which, Skill in Musick) was of the first rank in the Court. And though his Lands and Livclyhood were small, having nothing known certain, but his Annuity and Pension, as Gentleman to Queen Elizabeth, yet in state, pomp, magnificence and expences, did ever equalize the Barons of great worth. If any demand whence this proceeded, the Spanish Proverb answers him,

That which cometh from above, let no man question.

Being challenged by an Italian Gentleman to play at Baloun, he so heat his blood, that falling into a Feaver he dyed thereof, and by Her Majesties appointment, was buryed in the Abbey of Westminster, and Chapel of St. Andrew, anno 1596.

Lord Maiors.

Sheriffs of Leicester and Warwick-Shire.

HEN. II.

Anno, 1

Geffrey Clinton

Anno, 2

Robert Fitz Hugh.

Anno, 3

Robert Fitz Hugh.

Anno, 4

William de Bello Campo & Robert Fitz Hardulph.

Anno, 5

…ertram de Bulmer, & Raph Basset.

Anno, 6

Raph Basset.

Anno, 7

W. Basset for Raph his Br.

Anno, 8

Robert Fitz Geffrey. & William Basset.

Anno, 9

Willam Basset.

Anno, 10

Rap. Glanvil & W. Basset.

Anno, 11

William Basset for 5 years

Anno, 16

Bert. de Verdun for 10.

Anno, 26

Raph de Glanvil, & Bertram de Berder.

Anno, 27

Raph de Glanvil, & Bert. de Perdun, Arn. de Burton Arn. de Barton, & Adam de Aldedelega.

Anno, 28

Raph de Glanvil, Adam de Aldedelega, Bertram de Verdun, A. de Barton.

Anno, 29

Idem

Anno, 30

Raph de Glanvil, & Bertram de Verdun.

Anno, 31

Raph de Glanvil, & Michael Belet.

Anno, 32

Idem

Anno, 33

Idem

p. 138RICH. I.

Anno 1

Michael Belet.

Anno 2

Hugh Bishop of Coventry.

Anno 3

Hugh …ardolph, & Hugh Clarke.

Anno 4

Hugh Bp. Coventry, Gilbert de Segrave, & Reginald Basset.

Anno 5

Reginald Basset.

Anno 6

Regin. Basset, & Gilbert. Segrave.

Anno 7

Regin. Basset, Williel. Aubein, & Gilb. Segrave.

Anno 8

Regin. Basset.

Anno 9

Regin. Basset, Williel. Aubein, & Gilbert …egrave.

Anno 10

Rob. Harecourt.

King JOHN.

Anno 1

Regin. Basset.

Anno 2

Robert. Harecourt.

Anno 3

Rob. Harecourt, & Godfry de L…ege.

Anno 4

William de Cantelupe, Robert. de Poyer.

Anno 5

Robert. Poyer.

Anno 6

Hugh Chaucomber, for 4 years.

Anno 10

Robert. Roppest.

Anno 11

Idem.

Anno 12

William de Cantelupe, Rob. Poyer.

Anno 13

Rob. Poyer for 5 years.

HEN. III.

Anno 2

Will. de Cantelupe, & Phil. Kniton.

Anno 3

Philip de Kniton.

Anno 4

Idem.

Anno 5

Will. de Cantelupe, & Will. de Luditon.

Anno 6

Will. de Luditon.

Anno 7

Idem.

Anno 8

John Russell, & John Winterborne.

Anno 9

Rob. Lupus.

Anno 10

Idem.

Anno 11

Idem.

Anno 12

Will. Stutewill, & Will. Ascellis.

Anno 13

Will. Ascellis.

Anno 14

Stephen de Segrave, & Will. Edmonds.

Anno 15

Will. Edmonds.

Anno 16

Idem.

Anno 17

Steph. de Segrave, Joh. de Riparas.

Anno 18

Raph Bray.

Anno 19

Raph. Fitz Nichol. Raph. Brewedon.

Anno 20

Raph. & Will. Erleg.

Anno 21

Will. de Lucy.

Anno 22

Idem.

Anno 23

Hugh Pollier, & Philip Ascett.

Anno 24

Hugh Pollier for 8 years.

Anno 32

Baldwin Paunton.

Anno 33

Idem.

Anno 34

Philip Murmuny.

Anno 35

Idem.

Anno 36

Idem.

Anno 37

Will. Maunsel, for 4 y.

Anno 41

Alan Swinford.

Anno 42

Anketill Martivaus.

Anno 43

Idem.

Anno 44

Will. Bagot, for 12 years.

Anno 56

Will. Morteyn, & Will. Bagot.

EDVV. I.

Anno 1

William Mortimer.

Anno 2

Idem.

Anno 3

Idem.

Anno 4

William Hanelin.

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

Idem.

Anno 7

Tho. de Hasele, & Robert Verdon.

Anno 8

Robert Verdon, & Osb. Bereford, for 5 years.

Anno 13

Rob. Verdon, Osbert Bereford & Tho. Farendon.

Anno 14

Idem.

Anno 15

Tho. Farendon, & Foulk Lucy.

Anno 16

Foulk Lucy.

Anno 17

William Bonvill.

Anno 18

Idem.

Anno 19

Stephen Baber.

Anno 20

Idem.

Anno 21

Steph. Baber, & Will. de Castello.

Anno 22

Will. de Castello, for 5 years.

Anno 27

John Broughton.

Anno 28

Idem.

Anno 29

Philip Gayton.

Anno 30

Idem.

Anno 31

John Deane, & Richard Herehus.

Anno 32

Idem.

Anno 33

Idem.

Anno 34

Richard Whitnere.

Anno 35

Idem.

EDVV. II.

Anno 1

John Deane, & Geffrey Segrave.

Anno 2

Richard Herthull.

Anno 3

Idem.

Anno 4

John Deane.

Anno 5

Idem.

Anno 6

John Olney.

Anno 7

Idem.

Anno 8

William Trussell.

Anno 9

Idem.

Anno 10

Walter Beauchamp.

Anno 11

Walt. Beauchamp, & Will. Nevill.

Anno 12

Ralph Beler.

Anno 13

William Nevill.

Anno 14

Thomas le Rous.

Anno 15

Idem.

Anno 16

Anno 17

Hen. Nottingham, Rob. Morin, & Oliver Walleis.

Anno 18

Idem.

Anno 19

Idem.

EDVV. III.

Anno 1

Roger Aylesbury.

Anno 2

Thomas Blancfront.

Anno 3

Robert Burdet.

Anno 4

Rob. Burdet, & Roger la Zouch.

Anno 5

Roger Aylesbury.

Anno 6

Idem.

Anno 7

Hen. Hockley, & Roger la Zouch.

Anno 8

Roger la Zouch, for 7 years.

Anno 15

William Peito.

Anno 16

Robert Bereford.

Anno 17

John Wallis.

Anno 18

Idem.

Anno 19

Tho. Beauchamp, Earl of Warwick, for 25 years.

Anno 44

John Peach.

Anno 45

William Catesby.

Anno 46

Richard Harthull.

Anno 47

Roger Hillary.

Anno 4…

John Boyvill.

Anno 49

John Burdet.

Anno 50

VVilliam Breton.

Anno 51

Richard Harthull.

p. 139Sheriffs of Leicester and Warwick.

The Reader, may perceive some (not considerable) difference, betwixt this our Catalogue, and the Printed one, set forth by Mr. Burton in his Description of this Shire. I will neither condemn his no… commend my own, but leave both to the examination of others.

King RICHARD the Second.

16. THOMAS DE WOODFORD.]

He was the eldest Son of Sir Robert de Woodford a wealthy Knight, who dying before his Father, left five sons, viz. John, Walter, Humphrey, Ralph and John. Sir Robert their Grandfather, out of design to perpetuate his posterity, (adventured in five bottoms) made all his Grandchildren in effect elder brothers, dividing his vast estate amongst them; an equal unequal partition to be injurious to the Heir (without his demerit) that he might be bountiful to his other brethren: but it thrived accordingly. For that great Family (which had long continued in great accompt and estate) by reason of this * Division, in short space utterly decayed, not any part ofBurton in descrip. of this County Pag. 264. their lands (thus disposed) now in the tenure of the Name, and some of the Male Heirs descended from the five brethren, now living in a low condition; and no wonder, they soon made a Hand of all, where the Thumb was weakned, to strengthen the Four fingers.

HENRY the Fifth.

3. THOMAS BURDET Miles.]

The Samenesse of Name and Nearnesse of Kindred, giveth me here a just occasion to insist on a memorable Passage, concerning Thomas Burdet Esq Grandchild and Heir to Sir Thomas here named. When as King Edward the Fourth (in his absence) had killed a fat White Buck in his Park at Arrow in Warwick-shire, which he greatly esteemed; upon the first hearing of it, wished the Bucks head and horns in his belly, that moved the King to kill it. Upon the misconstruing of which words, he was accused of Treason, attainted, and beheaded, 18. E. 4. 1477. and was buried in the Grey Fryers in London.

p. 141Thus far our English Chronicles with joint consent agree in the same Tune, but I meet with one **Burton in the Description of Leicester-sh. Pag. 201.Author, reaching one Note higher then all the rest, adding as followeth, These words spoken and so wrested, were the colour of his death, but the true cause was the hard conceit and opinion, which the King had of him, for that he had ever been a faithful friend, and true Councellour, to George Duke of Clarence his brother, between whom there had been bitter Enmity.

Whatsoever was the cause of such severity against him, Burdet patiently and chearfully took his Death, affirming he had a Bird in his brest (his own Innocency) that sung comfort unto him.

HENRY the Sixth.

2. HUMPHREY STAFFORD.]

Being afterwards Knighted, he was by King Henry the Sixth, made Governour of Callice, and coming over into England, was slain by Jack Cade: but God hath a blessing for those whom Rebells curse. Sir Humphrey Stafford his Grandchild fixed himself at Blatherwick in Northampton-shire, where his posterity doth flourish to this day.

34. WILLIAM HASTINGS.]

The Reader needeth not my dimme Candle to direct him to this illustrious person. He was son to Sir Leonard Hastings (Sheriffe two years before) and was he whom King Edward the third, or rather Edward Plantagenet (because more in his humane then Royal capacity) so delighted in, that he made him his Lord Chamberlain, Baron Hastings of Ashby de la Zouch, &c. As he loved the King very well, so after this Kings death, he is charged to have loved Jane Shore too well, and Richard Duke of Glocester, perceiving him to obstruct the way to his ambitious designs, ordered his removal, causing him to be beheaded 1. Edw. 5. As when living he was dear, so being dead his corps are near to Edw. 4. Buried under a very fair Monument in Windsor Chappel. He was Grandfather to George Hastings first Earl of Huntington.

EDVVARD the Sixth.

4. EDVVARD HASTINGS Miles.]

Queen Mary, much delighting in his Devotion, created him Baron of Loughborough. He founded and endowed a handsome hospital at Stoke Pogeis in Buckingham-shire, whither (after the Queens death) weary of the World he retired himself, and therein dyed without issue.

The foresaid (and that a very Fair) Town of Loughborough, hath since again afforded the Title of a Baron to a younger branch of the same honourable Family, Henry Hastings second-Son to Henry (second of that Christian Name) Earl of Huntington, who by his Virtues doth add to the dignity of his Extraction.

Queen ELIZABETH.

5. JOHN FISHER Armiger.]

His Father Thomas Fisher alias Hawkins, being a Collonel under the Duke of Somerset in **Mr. Dugdale in the description of Warw. pag. 365.Musleborough Field, behaved himself right valiantly, and took a Scotch man Prisoner, who gave a Griffin for his Arms: Whereupon the said Duke conferred on him the Arms of his Captive, to be born within a Border Varrey, in relation to a prime Coat which the said Duke (the Granter thereof) quartered as descended from the Lord Beauchamps of Hatch.

Sheriffs of Leicester-Shire alone.

Queen ELIZABETH.

14. FRANCIS HASTINGS.]

I believe him the same Person with Sir Francis Hastings fourth Son to Francis, second. Earl of Huntington of that Sirname, to whose many children Mr. **In his Eliz. anno 1560.Cambden giveth this commendation, that they agreed together in brotherly love though not in religion, some Protestants, others Papists, all zealous in their perswafion. Our Sir Francis wrote a Learned Book in the defence of our Religion (rather carped at then confuted by Parsons in his three Conversions) and was an Eminent Benefactor to Emmanuel Colledge: But if I be mistaken in the Man, and these prove two different persons, the Reader will excuse me for taking occasion by this his Namesake and near Kinsman, of entring here the Memorial of so worthy a Gentleman.

28. ANTHONY FAUNT Esquire.]

He was a Gentleman of a Comely person and great Valor (Son unto William Faunt Apprentice of the Law of the Inner Temple, one of great Learning and Wisdome) And had in the low Countreys served under William Prince of Orange, where he gained much martial experience. Returning into his Countrey he underwent some Offices therein with good esteeme, being this year chosen Sheriff of the Shire. In the next year, (which was 1588.) He was chosen Lieutenant General of all the Forces of this Shire to resist the Spanish Invasion. But his Election being crost by Henry Earl of Huntington (Lord Leiutenant of the County,) he fell into so deep a Fit of Melancholy **Burton in …. p. 105., that he dyed soon after.

39. VVILLIAM SKIPVVITH Esq]

He was afterwards deservedly Knighted, being a Person of much Valor, judgment, Learning and VVisdome, dexterous at the making fit and acute **Idem p, 77.Epigrams, Poesies, Mottoes, p. 143and Devises, but chiefly at Impresses, neither so apparent that every Rustick might understand them, nor so obscure that they needed an Oedipus to interpret them.

The Farewell.

Being now to take my leave of this County, it is needless to wish it a Friday Market (the Leap-day therein, and it is strange there should be none in so spacious a Shire) presuming that defect supplied in the Vicinage; Rather I wish that the Leprosy may never return into this County, but if it should return (we carry the seeds of all sins in our Souls, sicknesses in our Bodies) I desire that the Lands may also (without prejudice to any) returne to the Hospital of Burton Lazars in this Shire, if not intire, yet in such a proportion as may comfortably maintain the Lepers therein.