The History of the Worthies of England, Part 2 · County 36

The History of the Worthies of England · Part 2 · County 36

p. 17SOMERSET-SHIRE hath the Severn-sea on the North, Glocestershire on the North-east, Wilts-shire on the East, Dorcet-shire on the South, and Devonshire on the West. Some will have it so called from the Summerlinesse, or temperate pleasantnesse thereof. With whom we concurre, whilst they confine their Etimologies to the Air; dissent, if they extend it to the Earth, which in winter is as winterly, deep and dirty, as any in England. The truth is, it is so named from Sommerton, the most ancient Town in the County. It stretcheth from East to West 55 miles, and from North to South 42 miles. No Shire can shew finer ware which hath so large measure, being generally fruitful though little moistry be used thereon.

The Inhabitants will tell you that there be several single Acres in this Shire (believe them of the larger sise and sesqui-jugera if measured) which may serve a good round Family with bread for a year, as affording a bushel of Wheat for every week therein, a proportion not easily to be parallel'd in other places.

Naturall Commodities.

Lead.

Plenty of the best (for the Kind thereof) is digged out of Myndip-hills. Indeed it is not so soft, pliant and equally fusile, as that in Derby-shire, not so proper for sheeting, because when melted it runs into knots, & therefore little known to, and less used by our LondonPlumbers. For being of a harder Nature it is generally transported beyond the Seas, and imploy'd to make Bullets and Shot, for which purpose't is excellent. May Forreigners enjoy wild Lead to kill Men, whilst we make use of tame Lead to cover Houses, and keep people warm and dry therein.

'Tis almost incredible what great summes were advanced to the Bishops of Bath and Welles by the benefit of Lead, since the later end of Queen Elizabeth, Bishop Still is said to have had the Harvest, Bishop Montague the Cleanings, Bishop Lake the Stubble thereof, and yet considerable was the Profit of Lead to him and his Successors.

Lapis Calaminaris.

Plenty hereof is also found in Myndip-Hills, and it is much used in Physick (being very good as artificially ordered for the clearing of the sight) and more by Mettalists. For Brass, no original, but a compound Mettal is made of this Stone and Copper, and becometh more hard than Copper alone, and therefore the more serviceable for many other purposes.

And now the Ridle in Nature which so long hath posed me, is at last explained, viz. How it can come to pass that Brass, being made of the best Copper with much Art and Industry, is notwithstanding afforded some Pence in the Pound cheaper, than Copper itself. This cometh to pass because the Calaminary-stone being of it self not worth above six pence in the pound, doth in the composition metalescere, turn Metal, in the mixture thereof, whereby the mass and Bulk of Brass is much advanced.

I have no more to observe of this Stone, save that it was first discovered in this County in that juncture of time when the Copper Mines were newly r…-discovered in Cumberland, God doubling his gift by the seasonable giving thereof.

Cheefe.

The Best and Biggest in England are made at Chedder, in this County. They may be called Corporation Cheeses, made by the Join-Daryes of the whole Parish, putting their Milk together, and each one, Poor and Rich, receive their share according to their proportion.

So that some may think, that the Unity and Amity of those Female Neighbours, living so lovingly together, giveth the better Runnet and Relish to their handiwork.

If any aske, why as good Cheese may not be made in the Vicenage, where the soil is as rich, and the same Houswifry? it will be demanded of them, why (nailes must be driven out with nailes) the like Cheese in Colour, Tast and Tenderness may not be made at Cremona, as at Parma, both lying in Lombardy, near together, and sharing equally in p. 18all visible advantages of fatness and fruitfulness. The worst fault of Chedder Cheese is, they are so few and dear, hardly to be met with, save at some great Mans Table.

Woad.

In Latine Glastum, or Glaustum, was much used by the Ancient Brittains, for the painting of their Faces: for I believe it will hardly be proved, that they dye their whole bodies. Say not, painted terriblenesse, is no terriblenesse, rather ridiculous than formidable, seeing Vizards are more frightful than mens own faces. This Woad gave the Brittains a deep black tincture, as if they would blow up their enemies with their Sulphureous countenances.

Our Dyers make much use thereof, being Color ad Colorem, the Stock (as I may say) whereon other Colours are gra…ted. Yea, it giveth them truth and fruithfulnesse, who without it prove fading and hypocritical.

This Herb doth greatly impair the ground it groweth on; profitable to such to set, who have land to let without Impeachment of Waste, it being long before it will recover good grass therein. I have placed Woad (which groweth in all rich places) in this County, because (as I am informed) it groweth naturally therein (hardly to be destroyed) especially about Glassenbury. Insomuch that a Learned ††M. …. Langl…y late Schoolmaster of Pauls.Critick, and my Worthy good friend had almost perswaded me, that from this Glastum, that Town taketh its denomination.

Mastiffes.

Smile not, Reader, to see me return to course Creatures amongst the Commodities of this County. Know, they are not (like Apes) the fooles and jesters, but the useful Servants in a Family, viz. the Porters thereof. Pliny observes, that Brittain breed's cowardy Lions, and couragious Mastiffes, which to me seems no wonder, the former being whelp'd in prison, the later at liberty. An English Mastiffe Anno 1602 did in effect worst a Lion, on the same token, that Prince Henry allow'd a kind of pension for his maintenance, and gave strict **Stows Annuals, pag. 336.order That he that had fought with the King of Beasts should never after encounter any inferiour Creatures.

Our English Mastiffes are in high reputation beyond the Seas, and the story is well known, that when an hundred Molossi were sent hence a present to the Pope; a LackLatin Cardinal, standing by, when the Letter was read, mistooke Molossos for so many Mules. Surely had Brittain been then known to the Ancient Romans, when first (instead of manning,) they Dogged, their Capitol, they would have furnished themselves with Mastiffes fetched hence for that purpose, being as vigilant as, more valiant then, any of their Kind. For the City of St. Malow in France is Garrisoned with a Regiment of Doggs, wherein many ranks are of English Extraction.

Hence it is that an ††Drayton in his Polyolbion.Authour tells me, that it passeth for the Blazon of this County,

Set the Band-Dog on the Bull.

It seems that both the Gentry and Country-folk in this Shire, are much affected with that pastime, though some scruple the lawfulness thereof. 1 Man must not be a Barrater, to set the Creatures at variance. 2 He can take no true delight in their Antipathie, which was the effect of his sin. 3 Mans Charter of Dominion empowers him to be a Prince, but no Tyrant over the Creatures. 4 Though Brute Beasts are made to be **2 Pet. 2▪ 12.2 Pet 2:12destroyed, they are not made to be tormented. Others rejoyn, that God gave us the Creatures as well for our pleasure as necessity: that some nice consciences, that scruple the Baiting of Bulls, will worry men with their vexatious cruelties. All that I dare interpose is this, that the tough flesh of Bulls is not onelyonly made more tender by baiting, but also thereby it is discoloured from Ox-beef, that the Buyer be not deceived.

Manufactures.

Taunton Serges are eminent in their Kind, being a fashionable wearing, as lighter than Cloath, yet thicker than many other Stuffs. When Dionysius sacrilegiously plundred Jove his Statue of his Golden Coat (pretending it too cold for Winter, and too hot for Summer) he bestowed such a vestimēt upō him to fit both Seasons. They were much sent into Spain, before our late War therewith, wherein Trading (long since complained of to p. 19be dead) is now lamented generally as buried, though hereafter it may have a resurrection.

The Buildings.

Of these the Churches of Bath and Wells are most eminent. Twins are said to make but one Man, as these two Churches constitute one Bishops See. Yet as a Twin oft-times proves as proper a person as those of single Births. So these severally equal most, and exceed many Cathedrals in England.

We begin with Bath considerable in its several conditions, viz. the beginning, obstructing, decaying, repairing, and finishing thereof.

1 It was begun by Oliver King Bishop of this Diocess in the reign of Henry the Seventh and the West end most curiously cut and carved with Angels climbing up a Ladder to Heaven. But this Bishop died before the finishing thereof.

2 His Death obstructed this structure so that it stood a long time neglected, which gave occasion for one to write on the Church-wall with a Char-coal.

O Church I wail thy woeful plight,

Whom King, nor Card'nal, Clark, or Knight

Have yet restor'd to ancient right.

Alluding herein to Bishop King who begun it, and his four Successors in thirty five years, viz. Cardinal Adrian, Cardinal Wolsey, Bishop Clark, and Bishop Knight, contributing nothing to the effectual finishing thereof.

3 The decay and almost ruin thereof followed when it felt in part the Hammers which knocked down all Abbyes. True it is the Commissioners profered to sell the Church to the Towns-men under 500 Marks. But the Towns-men fearing if they bought it so cheape to be thought to cozin the King: so that the purchase might come under the compasse of concealed lands, refused the profer. Hereupon the Glass, Iron, Bells, and Lead (which last alone amounted to 480 Tun) provided for the finishing thereof were sold and sent over beyond the Seas, if a ship-wrack (as some report) met them not by the way.

4 For the repairing thereof, collections were made all over the Land in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, though inconsiderable, either in themselves, or through the corruption of others. OnelyOnly honest Mr. Billet (whom I take to be the same with him, who was designed Executor, to the Will of William Cecil Lord Burghley) disbursed good sums to the repairing thereof, and a Stranger under a fained name took the confidence thus to play the Poet and Prophet on this Structure.

Be blithe fair Kirck, when Hempe is past,

Thine Olive, that ill winds did blast,

Shall flourish green for age to last.

Subscribed Cassadore.

By Hempe understand Henry the Eight, Edward the Sixth, Queen Mary, King Philip, and Queen Elizabeth. The Author I suspect had a Tang of the Cask, and being parcel-popish expected the finishing of this Church at the return of their Religion, but his prediction was verified in a better sense, when his Church

5 Was finished by James Montague Bishop of this See, disbursing vast sums in the same, though the better enabled thereunto by his Mines at Mynedep, so that he did but remove the Lead from the bowels of the Earth to the roof of the Church, wherein he lies enterred under a fair Monument.

This Church is both spacious and specious, the most lightsome as ever I beheld, proceeding from the greatness of the Windows, and whiteness of the Glass therein.

All I have more to add is only this, that the parable of Jotham [Judg. 9. 8.] is on this Church most curiously wrought (in allusion to the Christian Sirname of the first Founder thereof,) how the Trees going to choose them a King, profered the place to the OLIVE. Now when lately one OLIVER was for a time Commander in Chief in this Land, some (from whom more Gravity might have been expected) beheld this Picture as a Prophetical Prediction, so apt are English fancies to take fire at every spark p. 20of conceit. But seeing since that Olive hath been blasted bottom, his Root and Branches, this pretended Prophecy with that observation the reason is withered away.

As for the Cathedral of Wells it is a greater so darker than that of Bath, so that Bath may seem to draw devotion with the pleasantnesse, Wells to drive it with the solemnity thereof, and ill tempered their Minds who will be moved with neither. The West Front of Wells is a Master-piece of Art indeed, made of Imagiry in just proportion, so that we may call them Vera & spirantia signa. England affordeth not the like. For the West end of Excester beginneth accordingly, it doth not like Wells persevere to the end thereof.

As for the Civil Habitations in this County (not to speak of Dunstar Castle, having an high ascent, and the effect thereof, a large prospect by Sea and Land) Mountague built by Sir Edward Philips, Master of the Roles, is a most magnificent Fabrick. Nor must Hinton St. George, the House of the Lord Poulet be forgotten having every stone in the Front shaped Doule-wayes, or in the form of a Cart-nail. This I may call a Charitable Curiosity, if true what is traditioned. That about the reign of King Henry the Seventh, the owner thereof built it in a dear year, on purpose to imploy the more poor people thereupon.

The Wonders.

VVockey Hole in Mendip-hills some two miles from VVells. This is an undergroundConcavity, admirable for its spacious Vaults, stony Walls, creeping Labyrinths, the cause being un-imaginable, how and why the Earth was put in such a posture, save that the God of Nature is pleased to descant on a plain hollowness, with such wonderful contrivances.

I have been at, but never in this Hole, and therefore must make use of the description of a Learned eye **Dr. Hakewil in his Apolog. lib. 5. pa. 6,.Witness.

Entring and passing through a good part of it with many lights. Among other many strange Rarities, well worth the observing; VVe found that water which incessantly dropped down from the Vault of the Rock, though thereby it made some little dint in the Rock, yet was it turned into the Rock it self, As manifestly appeared even to the judgment of sense, by the shape, and colour, and hardnesse; It being at first of a more clear and glassie substance then the more ancient part of the Rock, to which no doubt but in time, it hath been and will be assimulated: And this we found not in small pieces, but in a very great quantity, and that in sundry places enough to load many Carts; From whence I inferre that as in this Cave, so no doubt in many other, (where they searched) the Rocks would be found to have increased immediately by the dropping of the water, besides that increase they have from the Earth in the Bowels thereof, which still continuing as it doth, there can be no fear of their utter failing.

Medicinal Waters.

BATH is well known all England and Europe over, far more useful and wholesome though not so stately as Dioclesian his Bath in Rome, (the fairest amongst 856 in that City, made onelyonly for pleasure and delicacy) beautified with an infinite of Marble Pillars, (not for support but ostentation,) so that Salmuth saith, fourteen thousand men were imployed for some years in building thereof. Our Baths-waters consist of

1 Bitumen, (which hath the predominancy,) sovereign to discuss, glutinate, dissolve, open obstructions, &c.

2 Niter, which dilateth the Bitumen, making the solution the better, and water the clearer. It clenseth and purgeth both by Stool and …rine, cutteth and dissolveth gross Humours.

3 Sulphur, In regard whereof, they dry, resolve, mollifie, attract, and are good for Uterine effects, proceeding from cold and windy Humours.

But how thes… Waters come by their great heat, is rather controverted than concluded amongst the Learned. Some impute it to Wind or Airy Exhalations, included in the Bowels of the Earth, which by their agitation and attrition (upon Rocks and narrow passages) gather Heat, and impart it to the Waters.

Others ascribe it to the heat of the Sun, whose Beams piercing through the Pores of the Earth, warm the Waters, and therefore anciently were called Aquae Solis, both because dedicated to, and made by the Sun.

p. 21Others attribute it to quick-lime, which we see doth readily heat any water cast upon it, and kindleth any combustible substance put therein.

Others referre it to a Subterranean fire kindled in the bowels of the Earth, and actually burning upon Sulpher and Bitumen.

Others impute the heat (which is not destructive but generative joyned with moisture) to the fermentation of several minerals.

It is the safer to relate all, than reject any of these Opinions, each having both their Opposers and Defenders.

They are used also inwardly, in Broths, Beere, Juleps, &c. with good effect. And although some mislike it because they will not mixe Medicaments with Aliments, yet such practice beginneth to prevail. The worst I wish these waters is, that they were handsomly roofed over (as the most eminent Bathes in Christendome are,) which, (besides that it would procure great benefit to weak persons,) would gain more respect hither in Winter Time or more early in the Spring; or more late in the Fall. The Right Honourable James Earle of Marleborough, undertook to cover the Crosse-Bath at his own charge, and may others follow his resolution, it being but fit, that where God hath freely given the Jewel, Men bestow a Case upon it.

Proverbs.

VVhere should I be bore else th…n in Tonton Deane?

This is a parcel of Ground, round about Tonton, very pleasant and populous, (as conteining many Parishes) and so fruitful, to use their Phrase with the Zun and Zoil alone, that it needs no manuring at all. The Peasantry therein are as Rude as Rich, and so highly conceited of their good Country (God make them worthy thereof) that they conceive it a disparagement to be born in any other place: as if it were eminently all England.

The Beggars of Bath.

Many in that place, some natives there, others repairing thither from all parts of the Land, the Poor for Alms, the pained for ease. Whither should Fowl flock in an hard frost, but to the Barn-door? Here all the two seasons the general confluence of Gentry. Indeed Laws are daily made to restrain Beggars, and daily broke by the connivence of those who make them: it being impossible, when the hungry Belly barks, and bowels sound, to keep the tongue silent. And although Oil of whip be the proper plaister for the cramp of lazinesse, yet some pity is due to impotent persons. In a word, seeing there is the Lazars-Bath in this City, I doubt not but many a good Lazarus, the true object of Charity may beg therein.

Saints.

DUNSTAN was born in the Town **Lives of the Saints.of Glassenbury in this County. He afterwards was Abbot thereof, Bishop of London & VVorcester, Archbishop of Canterbury, and at last for his promoting of Monkery, reputed a Saint. I can add nothing to, but must subtract something from, what I have written of him in my Church History. True it is he was the first Abbot of England, not in time but in honour, Glassenbury being the Proto-Abbaty then and many years after, till Pope Adrian advanced St. Albans above it. But, whereas it followeth in my **Century 10! pag. 129.Book, That the title of Abbot till his time was unknown in England, I admire by what casualty it crept in, confess it a foul mistake, and desire the Reader with his Pen to delete it. More I have not to say of Dunstan, save that he died, Anno Dom. 988. and his skill in Smithery was so great, that the Gold-smiths in London are incorporated by the Name of the Company of St. Dunstans.

Martyrs.

JONH HOOPER was born in this **Terrae Somersetensis alumnus Bale, de Script. Brit. cent. 8. num. 86.County, bred first in Oxford, then beyond the Seas. A great Scholar and Linguist, but suffering under the notion of a proud man, onelyonly in their Judgments, who were un-acquainted with him. Returning in the reign of king Edward the Sixth, he was elected Bishop of Glocester, but for a time scrupuled the p. 22acceptance thereof, on a double account. First, because he refused to take an Oath tendered unto him.

This Oath I**In my Eccles. History. conceived to have been the Oath of Canonical obedience: but since, (owing my information to my Worthy Friend, the Learned D^r. John Hacket,) I confess it the Oath of Supremacy, which Hooper refused, not out of lack of Loyalty but store of Conscience. For, the Oath of Supremacy as then modelled, was more than the Oath of Supremacy, injoyning the receivers thereof conformity to the Kings commands in what alterations soever he should afterwards make in Religion. Which implicite and unlimited obedience, Learned Casuists allow onelyonly due to God himself.

Besides, the Oath concluded with So help me God and all his Angels and Saints. So that Hooper had just cause to scruple the Oath, and was the occasion of the future reforming, whilst the King dispensed with his present taking thereof.

The second thing he boggled at, was the wearing of some Episcopal habiliments, but at last it seemeth, consented thereunto, and was Consecrated Bishop of Glocester.

His adversaries will say, that the refusing of One is the way to get Two Bishopricks, seeing afterward he held Worcester in Commendam therewith. But, be it known that as our Hooper had double dignity, he had treble diligence, painfully preaching Gods Word, piously living as he preach'd, and patiently dying as he liv'd, being martyred at Glocester Anno 155-.

He was the onelyonly native of this Shire suffering for the testimony of the Truth, and on this account we may honour the memory of Gilbert Bourn Bishop of Bath and Wells in the reign of Queen Mary, who persecuted no Protestants in his Diocese to Death, seeing it cannot be proved that one Lush was ever burnt though by him condemned. I mention Bishop Bourn here the more willingly, because I can no where recover the certainty of his Nativity.

Prelates.

JOCELINE of**Taken generally out of Bp. Godwin. WELLS. Bishop Godwin was convinced by such evidences, as he had seen, that he was both born and bred in Welles, becomming afterwards the Bishop thereof.

Now whereas his Predecessors stiled themselves Bishops of Glaston, (especially for some few years after their first Consecration) He first fixed on the Title of Bath and Wells, and transmitted it to all his Successors. In his time the Monks of Glassenbury, being very desirous to be only subjected to their own Abbot, purchased their Exemption, by parting with four fair Mannors to the See of Wells.

This Joceline, after his return from his five years Exile in France, (banished with Archbishop Langton on the same account of obstinacy against King John) layed out himself wholely on the beautifying and enriching of his Cathedral. He erected some new Prebends, and to the use of the Chapter, appropiated many Churches, increasing the revenues of the Dignities, (so fitter called than Profits so mean then their maintenance) and to the Episcopal See, he gave three Mannors of great value. He with Hugo Bishop of Lincoln was the joynt Founder of the Hospital of St. Johns in Wells, and on his own sole cost, built two very fair Chappels, one at VVokey, the other at VVells. But the Church of VVells was the Master-piece of his Works, not so much repaired, as rebuilt by him, and well might he therein have been afforded a quiet repose. And yet some have plundered his Tomb of his Effigies in Brasse, being so rudely rent off, it hath not only defaced his Monument, but even hazarded the ruin thereof. He sat Bishop (which was very remarkable) more than thirty seven years, (God to Square his great undertakings giving him a long life to his large heart) and died 1242.

FULKE of SAMFORD was born in this County, but in which of the Samfords (there being four of that name therein & none elsewhere in England) is hard (and not necessary) to decide. He was first preferred Treasurer of St. Pauls in London, and then by Papal Bull declared Archbishop of Dublin, **Sir James Ware, in the Archbishops of Dublin.1256. M^r. Paris calleth him Fulk Basset by mistake. He died in his Mannor of Finglas 1271, and was buried in the Church of St. Patrick, in the Chappel of St. Maries which likely was erected by him.

JOHN of SAMFORD. It is pity to part Brethren. He was first Dean of St. Patrick in Dublin, (preferred probably by his Brother) and for a time Eschaetor **…r James Ware, ut sup.of all Ireland. p. 23Indeed the Office doth male audire, sound ill to ignorant eares, partly because the vicinity thereof to a worse††viz. Cheater. word (Esquire and Squire, are known to be the same) partly because some by abusing that Office, have rendred it odious to people, which in it self was necessary and honourable. For the name Eschaetor cometh from the French word Escheoir, which signifieth to Happen or Fall out, and He by his place is to search into any Profit accrewing to the Crown by casualty, by the condemnation of Malefactors, Persons dying without an Heir, or leaving him in minority, &c. and whereas every County in England hath an Eschaetor; This John of Samford being Eschaetor General of Ireland, his place must be presumed of great Trust from the King, and Profit to himself.

He was Canonically chosen and by King Edward the first confirmed Archbishop of Dublin 1284, mediately succeeding (John de Derlington interposed) his Brothet Fulke therein, and I cannot readily remember the like Instance in any other See. For a time he was Chief Justice of Ireland, and thence was sent (with Anth… Bishop of Durham) Embas…adour to the Emperour: whence returning he died at London 1294. and had his Body carried over into Ireland (an Argument that he was well respected) and buried in the Tomb of his Brother in the Church of St. Patricks.

THOMAS BECKINTON was born at**New Coll. Reg. in Anno 1408. Beckinton in this County, bred in NewColledge Doctor in the Laws, and Dean of the Arches, till by King Henry the Sixth he was advanced Bishop of Bath and VVelles.

A**All extracted & contracted out of Bishop Godwin his Bishops of Bath & Wells. good

1 States-man; having written a Judicious Book to prove the Kings of England to the Crown of France, notwithstanding the pretenced Salique-Law.

2 Church-man; (in the then notion of the Word) professing in his Will, that he had spent six thousand Marks in the repairing and adorning of his Palaces.

3 Towns-man; besides a Legacy given, to the Town where he was born, he built at VVells, where he lived, a fair Conduit in the Market-place.

4 Subject; alwayes loyal to King Henry the Sixth, even in the lowest condition.

5 Kinsman; plentifully providing for his alliance with Leases, without the least prejudice to the Church.

6 Master; bequeathing five pounds a piece to his chief, five Marks a piece to his meaner Servants, and fourty shillings a piece to his Boys.

7 Man; He gave for his Rebus (in allusion to his Name) a burning Beacon, to which he answered in his Nature, being a burning and a shining light.

Witnesse his many benefactions to VVells Church, and the Vicars therein; VVinchester, New, Merton, but chiefly Lincoln-Colledg in Oxford, being little lesse than a second Founder thereof.

A Beacon (we know) is so called from Beckoning, that is, making signs, or giving notice to the next Beacon. This bright Beacon doth nod and give hints of bounty to future ages, but it is to befeared, it will be long before his signs will be observed, understood, imitated. Nor was it the least part of his prudence, that (being obnoxious to King Edward the Fourth) in his life time he procured the confirmation of his Will under the broad Seal of England, and died January the 14, 1464.

RICHARD FITZ-JAMES Doctor at Law, was born at Redlinch in this County, of right ancient and worshipful extraction, bred at Merton Colledge in Oxford, whereof he became Warden: much meriting of that place, wherein he built most beautiful Lodgings, expending also much on the repair of St. Maries in Oxford. He was preferred Bishop first of Rochester, next of Chichester, last of London.

He was esteemed an excellent Scholar, and wrote some**Pitzeus, in Appendice. Books, which if they ever appeared in publick, never descended to posterity. He cannot be excused for being over busie with fire and faggot in persecuting the poor Servants of God in his Diocess. He deceased Anno 1512. lyeth buried in his Cathedral (having contributed much to the adorning thereof) in a Chappel-like Tomb, built (it seems) of**Bp. Godwins words are … materie. Timber, which was burnt down when the steeple of St. Pauls was set on fire, Anno 1561. This Bishop was brother to Judg Fitz-James, Lord Chief Justice, who with their mutual support much strengthned one another in Church and State.

p. 24To the Reader.

I cannot recover any native of this County, who was a Bishop since the Reformation, save only John Hooper, of whom formerly in the Catalogue of Martyrs.

States-men.

Sir AMIAS POULET, Son to Sir Hugh, grand-Child to Sir Amias Poulet, (who put **Godwin in the life of K. Henry the 8.Cardinal Wolsey, then but a Schoolmaster, in the Stockes) was born at Hinton Saint George in this County. He was Chancelor of the Garter, Governour of the Isles of Jersey and Gernsey, and Privy Counsellor to Queen Elizabeth, who chiefly committed the keeping of Mary Queen of Scots to his fidelity, who faithfully discharged his trust therein.

I know the Romanists rail on him, as over-strickt in his Charge; but indeed without cause, for he is no unjust Steward, who to those under him alloweth all his Masters allowance, though the same be …ut of the scantest proportion. Besides it is no news for Prisoners (especially if accounting their restraint unjust) to find fault with their Keepers meerely for keeping them. And such who complain of him, if in his place, ought to have done the same themselves.

When Secretary Walsingham moved this Knight to suffer one of his Servants to be bribed by the Agents of the Queen of Scots, so to compasse the better intelligence, he would in no terms yield thereunto. Such conniving at, was consenting to; and such consenting to, in effect was commanding of such falshood. Whereupon the Secretary was fain to go further about, and make use of an Instrument at a greater distance, who was no menial servant to Sir Amias.

He died Anno Dom. 15.. And was buried in London, in St. Martins in the fields, where his Epitaph is all an allusion to the three Swords in his Arms, and three words in his Motto, Gardez la Foy, Keep the Faith. Which harping on that one string of his fidelity, (though perchance harsh musick to the ears of others) was harmonio…s to Queen Elizabeth.

Capital Judges.

JOHN FITZ-JAMES Knight, was born at Redlinch in this County, of right ancient and worthy Parentage, bred in the Study of our Municipal Laws, wherein he proved so great a Proficient, that by King Henry the Eighth, He was advanced Chief Justice of the Kings Bench. There needs no more be said of his merit, save that King Henry the Eighth preferred him, who never used either Dunce or D…one in Church or State, but Men of Ability and Activity. He sate above thirteen years in his Place, demeaning himself so, that he lived and died in the Kings favour.

He sate one of the Assistants when Sir Thomas More was arraigned for refusing the Oath of Supremacy, and was shrewdly put to it to save his own Conscience, and not incurre the Kings displeasure. For Chancellor Audley Supream Judge in that place, (being loath that the whole burthen of Mores condemnation should lye on his shoulders alone) openly in Court asked the advice of the Lord Chief Justice Fitz-James, whether the Indictment were sufficient or no? to whom our Judge warily returned.

My Lords all, by St. Gillian (which was ever his Oath) I must **Mr. More in the printed life of his grand-father Sr. Tho. More, pag. 334.needs confesse, that, if the Act of Parliament be not unlawful, then the Indictment is not in my conscience insufficient.

He died in the thirtyeth year of King Henry the Eighth, and although now there be none left at Redlinch of his Name and Family, they flourish still at Lewson in Dorsetshire, descended from Alured Fitz-James (brother to this Judge, and to Richard Bishop of London) whose Heir in a direct line Sir John Fitz-James Knight I must acknowledge a strong encourager of my weak endeavours.

JOHN PORTMAN, Knight, was born of Wealthy and Worshipful Extraction at Portm…ns Orchard in this County, a fair Mannor; which descended to him by Inheritance, the Heir of the Orchards being matcht into his Family. He was bred in the Study of the Common Law, attaining to such eminency therein, that June 11, the second of Queen Mary he was made Chief Justice of the Kings Bench continuing two years in p. 25the place, and dying therein for ought I find to the contrary, and a Baronet of his name and Linage flourisheth at this day with a great and plentiful Estate.

DAVID BROOKE, Knight, born at Glassenbury, son to John Brook, Esq. who (as I read in **In the Original of his last visitation of Some…setsh.Claréntiaux) was Serjeant at Law to King Henry the Eighth. Our David was also bred in the study of our Laws, and in the First of Queen Mary was made Chief Baron of the Exchequer, but whether dying in, or quitting the place in the First of Queen Elizabe…h I am not informed. He married Katharine daugher of John Lord Shandois, but died without Issue.

JAMES DIER, Knight, younger son to Richard Dier Esq. was born at Roundhill in this County, as may appear to any by the Heralds Visitation thereof, and doth also to me by particular information from his relations.

He was bred in the study of our Municipal Law, and was made Lord Chief Justice of the … Pleas, Primo Eliz. continuing therein **Sir H. Sp…lmans Gloss.24 years, longer (if my eye or Arithmetick fa…l me not) than any in that place before or after him. When Thomas Duke of Northfolk was Anno 1572 arraigned for Treason, this Judge was present thereat on the same token, that, when the Duke desired Council to be assigned him pleading that it was granted to Humphry Stafford in the reign of King Henry the Seventh, our Judge returned unto him, That Stafford had it allowed him **Camdens Eliz. An. 1570.only as to Point of Law, then in dispute, viz. Whether he was legally taken out of the Sanctuary, but as for matter of Fact, neither he, nor any ever had, or could have any Councel allowed him, a course observed in such Cases, unto this day.

But let his own Works praise him in the **Prov. 31. 31.Prov 31:31Ga…es, (is known for the place of publick Justice amongst the Jews) Let his Learned Writings, called his Commentaries or Reports evidence his Abilities in his Profession.

He died in 25 Eliz. (though married) without any Issue; and there is a House of a Baronet of his name (descended from an elder son of Richard father to our Judge) at Great Stoughton in Huntington-shire, well improved I believe with the addition of the Judges Estate.

S^r. JOHN POPHAM of most ancient descent was born at Huntworth **So it appears to me on my best examination.in this County. In his youthful dayes he was as stout and skilful a Man at Sword and Buckler, as any in that age, and wild enough in his recreations. But Oh! if Quick-silver could be really fixed, to what a treasure would it amount? Such is wild Youth seriously reduced to Gravity, as by this young man did appear. He applied himself to a more profitable Fencing, the study of the Laws, therein atteining to such eminency, that he became the Queens Attourny, and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of England.

Being sent Anno 1600, by the Queen with some others to the Earl of Essex, to know the cause of the confluence of so many Military Men unto his House, the Souldiers therein detained him for a time, which some did make to Tantamount to an imprisonment. This his violent detention Sir John deposed upon his Oath at the ††Camdens Eliz. An. 1600.Earls Trial; which I note the rather for the rarity thereof, that a Lord Chief Justice should be produced as witness in open Court.

In the Beginning of the reign of king James his Justice was exemplary on Theeves and Robbers. The Land then swarmed with people which had been Souldiers, who had never gotten, (or else quite forgotten) any other vocation. Hard it was for peace to feed all the Idle mouthes which a former war did breed, being too proud to begge, too lazy to labour. Those infected the Highwayes with their Felonies, some presuming on their multitudes, as the Robbers on the Northern Rode, whose knot (otherwise not to be untyed) Sr. John cut asunder with the Sword of Justice.

He possessed King James how the frequent granting of pardons was prejudicial to Justice, rendring the Judges to the contempt of insolent Malesactors; which made his Majesty more sparing afterward in that kind. In a word, the deserved death of some scores, preserved the lives and livelyhoods of more thousands: Travellers owing their safety to this Judges severity many years after his death, which happened Anno Dom. 16.

Souldiers.

JOHN ††The effect of what followes is taken out of the Irish Annals at the end of Camd Britt.COURCY, Baron of Stoke-Courcy in this County, was the first Englishman p. 26who invaded and subdued Ulster in Ireland, therefore deservedly created Earl thereof. He was afterward surprised by Hugh Lacy (corrival for his Title) sent over into England, and imprisoned by King John in the Tower of London.

A French-Castle, being in controverfie, was to have the Title thereof, tried by Combate, the Kings of England and France beholding it. Courcy being a lean lank body, with staring eyes, (prisoners with the wildnesse of their looks, revenge the closenesse of their bodies) is sent for out of the Tower to undertake the Frenchman, and because enfcebled with long durance, a large bill of fare was allowed him to recruit his strength. The Monsieur, hearing how much he had eat and drank, and guessing his courage by his stomack o… rather stomack by his appetite, took him for a Canibal who would devoure him at the last course, and so he declined the Combate.

Afterwards the two Kings, desirous to see some proof of Courcy's strength, caused a steel Helmet to be laid on a block before him. …ourcy looking about him … grimme countenance (as if he intended to cut with his eyes as well as with his arms) sundered the Helmet at one blow into two pieces, striking the Sword so deep into the wood, that none but himself could pull it out again.

Being demanded the cause why he looked so sternly, Had I (said he) failed of my design, I would have killed the Kings and all in the place; words well-spoken because well taken, all persons present being then highly in good humour. Hence it is, that the Lord Courcy, Baron of Ringrom, second Baron in Ireland, claim a priviledge (whether by Patent or Prescription, Charter or Custome I know not) after their first obeisance, to be covered in the Kings presence, if processe of time had not antiquated the practice.

His devotion was equal to his valour, being a great Founder and endower of Religious Houses. In one thing he fouly failed, turning the Church of the Holy Trinity in Down, into the Church of St. Patrick, for which (as the Story saith) he was condemned, never to return into Ireland, though attempting it fifteen several times, but repell'd with foul weather. He afterwards went over and died in France, about the year 1210.

MATTHEW GOURNAY was born at Stoke-under-Hamden in this County, where his Family had long flourished since the Conquest, and there built both a Castle and a Colledge. But our Matthew was the honour of the House, renowned under the reign of King Edward the Third, having fought in**Camdens Brit. in this Coun…. seven several signal set Battails, viz.

1 At the siege of d'Algizer, against the Sarazens.

2 At the Battail of Benemazin, against the same.

3 Sluce, a Sea-fight against the French.

4 Cressy, a Land-fight-against the same.

5 Ingen, Pitch'd fights against the French

6 Poictiers, Pitch'd fights against the French

7 Nazaran, under the Black Prince, in Spain.

His Armour was beheld by Martial Men with much civil veneration, with whom his faithful Buckler was a relique of esteem.

But it added to the wonder, that our Matthew, who did lie and watch so long on the bed of honour, should die in the bed of peace, aged††Camden, ut prius. ninety and six years, about the beginning of King Richard the Second. He lieth buried under a fair Monument in the Church of Stoke aforesaid, whose Epitaph legible in the last age, is since (I suspect) defaced.

Sea-men.

Sir AMIAS PRESTON Knight, was descended of an Ancient Family, who have an Habitationat Cricket, nigh Creukern in this County. He was a Valiant Souldier, and Active Sea-man, witnesse in 88. when he**Camdens Eliz. in 88. seized on the Admiral of the Galiasses, wherein Hugh de Moncada the Governour making resistance, with most of his Men, were burnt, or killed, and Mr. Preston (as yet not Knighted) shared in a vast Treasure of Gold taken therein.

Afterwards Anno 1595, he performed a victorious**… travels 3 part, pag. 578. Voyage to the West-Indies, wherin he took by assault the Ile of Puerto Santo, invaded the Ile of Coche, surprised the Fort and Town of Coro, sacked the stately City of St. Jago, put the Town of Cumana to ransome, p. 27entred Jamaica with little loss, some profit, and more honour, safely returned, within the space of six months to Milford Haven in Wales.

I have been informed from excellent hands, that on some dis-tast he sent a Challenge to S^r. Walter Raleigh, which S^r. Walter declined without any abatement to his Valour (wherein he had abundantly satisfied all possibility of suspicion) and great advancement of his Judgement. For having a fair and fixed Estate, with Wife and Children, being a Privy Counsellor, and Lord Warden of the Stannereys, he thought it an uneven l…y to stake himself against S^r. Amias, a private, and (as I take it) a single person, though of good birth and courage, yet of no considerable Estate. This also is consonant to what he hath written so judiciously about Duels, condemning those for ill Honours, where the Hangman **Hist. of the World, lib. 5. pag. 548.gives the Garland. However these two Knights were afterwards reconciled, and S^r. Amias (as I collect) died about the beginning of the reign of King James.

Learned Writers.

GILDAS, sirnamed the WISE was born**Usher, De▪ Brit. Eccl. Primord. in his Chronologies. in the City of Bath, and therefore it is that he is called Badonicus. He was eight years junior to another Gildas called Albanius, whose Nativity I cannot clear to belong to our Brittain. He was also otherwise sur-stiled, Querulus, because the little we have of his Writing is only a Complaint. Yet was he none of those whom the**… 18. Apostle condemneth. These are Murmur…s, Complainers, &c. (taxing only such who either were impious against GOD, or uncharitable against men, complaining of them either without cause or without measure,) whilst our Gildas only inveigheth against the sins, and bemoaneth the sufferings of that wicked and woful age wherein he lived, calling the Clergy Montes Malitiae, the Brittons generally, Atramentum seculi.

He wrote many Books, though we have none of them extant at this day (some few fragments excepted, inserted amongst the Manuscript Canons) but his aforesaid History. This makes me more to wonder that so Learned a Critick as D^r.**In his second Book de Hist. Lat▪ in the end of the 25 …. Gerrard … should attribute the Comedy of Aulularia in Plautus to this our Gildas, meerely because that Comedy is otherwise commonly called Querulus. Whereas indeed their language is different, that in Aulularia tolerably pure (though perchance courser than the rest in Plautus) whilst the style of Gildas is hardly with sense to be climbed over, it is so harsh and barbarous. Besides I do not believe that Gildas had a drop of Comical bloud in his ve…nes, or any inclination to mirth and festivity, and if he had prepared any thing Scenical to be acted on the Theater, certainly it would have been a Tragedy relating to the ruin and destruction of his Nation. Some variety there is about the date of his death, which most probably is assigned, Anno 570.

MAURICE SOMERSET carried this County of his Nativity about with him in his Name, and was bred first a Cistercian Monk in Ford-Abbey, then studied in Oxford, and became a good Writer both in Prose and Verse. His deserts preferred him Abbot of Wells, which in his old age he resigned, loving Ease above Honour. Some Books he dedicated to his Diocesan, Reginald Bishop of Bath, and††Pitzeus, Aetat. 12 nu. 271. flourished Anno 1193.

ALEXANDER of ESSEBIE is (saith my**Bale de Script. Brit. Cent. 4. nu. 1…. Authour) by some accounted a Somerset, by others a Staffordshire man; and therefore by our fundamental Laws, (laid down in our Preface, to decide differences about nativities) falls to the share of this County. He was the Prince of English Poets in his age, and in imitation of Ovid de Fastis, put our Christian Festivals into Verse, setting a copy therein to Baptista Mantuanus.

Then leaving Ovid he aspired to Virgil, and wrote the History of the Bible (with the lives of some Saints) in an Heroical Poem; and though falling far short of Virgil, went beyond himself therein. He afterward became Prior of††Qu…re, where this is. Esseby-Abbey, belonging to the Augustins and flourished under King Henry the Third, Anno Dom. 1220.

ADAMUS de MARISCO, or ADAM of MARSH was born in this**Bale, De script. Brit. cent. 4. nu. 12 Et Pitz. in A…no 1657. County, where there be plenty of Marshes in the Fenny part thereof. But I take Brent-marsh as the principal, the most probable place for his Nativity. It seemeth that a foggie Air is no hinderance to a refined Wit, whose Infancy and Youth in this place was so full of pregnancy. He afterwards went to Oxford, and there became D. D. It is argument enough to perswade any indifferent man into a belief of his Abilities, because that Robert Groshead p. 28that Learned and Pious Bishop of Lincoln, made use of his paines, that they might jointly peruse, and aompare the Scripture. He became afterwards a Franciscan Frier in Worc…ster, and furnished the Library thereof with most excellent Manuscripts, for then began the E…ulation in England betwixt Monasteries, which should outvie other for most and best Books. He flourished Anno Dom. 1257. I cannot grieve heartily for this Adam his losse of the Bishoprik of Ely, because Hugo de Balsham his corrival got it from him, the Founder of Peter house in Cambridge.

Since the Reformation.

HENRY CUFF… was born at St. George Hinton in this County, as the late Lord Powlet, Baron thereof, did inform me, though none of that name left there at this day. He was afterwards fellow of Merton Colledge in Oxford, and Secretary to Robert Earl of Essex, with whom he ingaged in his rising, Anno 1600. being arraigned at Westminster for his life. Sir Edward Cook (then but the Queens Attourney) disputed Syllogistically against him, whom Cuffe an admirable Logician could caeteris paribus well have encountred. But power will easily make a solecisme to be a silogisme. The most pregnant proof brought against him was a Verse out of Lucan alledged by him. For when the Earl sitting in consultation with his Complices demanded their advice, whether he should proceed in their design, or desist, Mr. Cu…e returned

Viribus utendum est quas …ecimus, Arma ferenti **The words the Poet are somewhat different.Omnia dat, qui justa negat.

This I may say proved his Neck▪verse being attested against him, for which he suffered. He wrote an excellent Book of the difference of the Ages of man, a rare piece indeed, though not altogether so hard to be procured as worthy to be perused.

S^r. JOHN HARRINGTON Knight, where born I know not, sure I am he had S. N.a fair Estate at Kelston neer Bath in this County, and is emiment for his Confessor Extraction.

**In his continuance of Bishop Godwin in his Bishops of Winchester.His Father only for carrying a Letter to the Lady (afterwards Queen) Elizabeth, by Bishop Gardiner kept twelve monthes in the Tower, and made to spend 1000 pounds ere he could get free of that trouble.

His Mother servant to the Lady Elizabeth, was by Gardiners command sequestred from her, as an Heretick, and her husband enjoyned, not to keep company with her.

Queen Elizabeth was Godmother to this Sir John, and he was bred in Cambridge, where Doctor Still was his Tutor, but whether whilst he was Fellow of Christs, or Master of St. Johns, is to me unknown. He afterward proved one of the most ingenious Poets of our English Nation, witnsse his translation of Orlando Furioso out of the Italian, dedicated to the Lady Elizabeth, since Queen of Bohemia, and the several pieces of his own invention.

It happened that while the said Sir John repaired often to an Ordinary in Bath, a female Attendress at the Table, neglecting other Gentlemen which sat higher, and were of greater Estates, applyed her self wholly to him, accommodating him with all necessaries, and prebenting his asking any thing with her officiousnesse. She being demanded by him, the reason of her so careful waiting on him? I understand, said she, you are a very Witty man, and if I should displease you in any thing, I fear you would make an Epigram of me.

A posthume Book of his is come forth, as an Addition to Bishop Godwins Catalogue of Bishops; wherein (beside mistakes) some tart reflections in Uxoratos Episcopos, might well have been spared. In a word, he was a Poet in all things save in his wealth, leaving a fair Estate to a Learned and Religious Son, and died about the middle of the reign of King James.

SAMUEL DANIEL was born not far from **So am I certified by some of his [late surviving] acquaintance.Taunton in this County, whose Faculty was a master of Musick: and his harmonious Mind, made an impression on his Sons Genius, who proved an exquisite Poet. He carried in his Christian and Surname two Holy Prophets, his Monitors so to qualifie his Raptures, that he abhorred all prophaness.

He was also a judicious Historian, witness his Lives of our English Kings since the Conquest, until King Edward the Third, wherein he hath the happiness to reconcile Brevity with Clearnesse, qualities of great distance in other Authours. A work since commendably continued, (but not with equal quicknesse and judgment) by M^r. Trusal.

He was a Servant in Ordinary to Queen Anne, who allowed him a fair Salary. As p. 29the Tortoise burieth himself all the Winter in the ground, so M^r. Daniel would lye hid at his Garden-house in Oldstreet, nigh London, for some Months together, (the more retiredly to enjoy the Company of the Muses,) and then would appear in publick, to converse with his Friends, whereof D^r. Cowel, and M^r. Camden were principal.

Some tax him to smack of the Old Cask, as resenting of the Romish Religion, but they have a quicker Palat…than than I, who can make any such discovery. In his old Age he turn'd Husbandman, and Rented a Farm in Wiltshire nigh the Devises. I can give no account how he thrived thereupon. For though he was well vers'd in Virgil, his fellow Husbandman-Poet, yet there is more required to make a rich Farmer, than only to say his Georgicks by heart, and I question whether his Ita…ian will fit our English Husbandry. Besides, I suspect that M^r. Daniel his fancy was too fine and sublimated to be wrought down to his private profit.

However he had neither a Bank of wealth or lank of want, living in a competent condition. By Justina his wife he had no child, and I am unsatisfied both in the Place and Time of death, but collect the latter, to be about the end of the reign of King James.

HUMPHRY SIDENHAM was born at Dalverton in this County, of a most Ancient and Worshipful Family, bred Fellow of Wadham Colledge, so Eloquent a Preacher that he was commonly called Silver-tongued Sidenham. But let his own printed Sermons, (and especially that, called the Athenian Babler) set forth his deserved praise, who died since our Civil distempers, about the year 1650.

Romish-exile Writers.

JOHN GIBBON was undoubtedly born in this County, though herein Pitts presents us with an untoward and left-handed direction, **Pits de Ang. Scrip. pa. 788.Patrica Somersetensis Diocesis Wintoniensis. Now either W…nchester is imprinted for Wells, or he was born in this County in some peculiar belonging to Winchester, which See hath large revenues about Taunton. Leaving the Land for his Religion, Pope Gregory XIII. collated on him a Canons place in the Church of Bonn. This he soon quitted, and became Rector of the Jesuits Colledge in Triers, he wrote a Book against G. Schon Professor at Heydelberge in vindication that the Pope was not Antichrist. Being indisposed in health, his hearing of the defeat of the Spanish Armado, was no cordial unto him, and died Anno 1589.

ROBERT PERSON was born in this ††Pits de Ang. scrip. An▪ 1610 † Camdens Eliz. 1580.County, bred in Baliol-Colledge in Oxford, till for his viciousness he was expelled thence with disgrace. Running to Rome, and there finishing the course of his studies, he with Campian were the first brace of English Jesuits, who returned hither 1589 to preserve this Nation. Two years after he escaped hence, and got beyond the Seas.

One of a troublesome spirit, wherewith some moderate Romanists were so▪offended, that (during his abode here) they once resolved to **Idem ibid.resign him up to the Queens Officers. He had an ill natured Wit, biassed to Satyricalnesse. A great States-man, and it was not the least part of his policy to provide for his own safety; who would look on, direct, give ground, abet on other mens hands, but never plaid so, as to adventure himself into England.

He wrote a shrewd Book of the Succession to the English-crown, setting it forth under the false name of **Idem, Anno 1594.Dolman (a dulsecular Priest, guilty of little Learning, and less policy) dedicating the same to the Earl of Essex. He had an authoritative influence on all English Catholicks, nothing of importance being agitated by them, but Person had a finger, hand, arm therein. He was for 23 years Rector of the Colledge at Rome, where he died Anno Dom. 1610.

JOHN FEN was born at **New-Coll. Regist. Anno 1555.Montacute in this County, bred in New-Colledge in Oxford, where he proceeded Bachelour in Laws, continuing there, till (Anno Dom. 1562) for his Popish activity, he was ejected by the Queens Commissioners. Then for a time he lived Schoolmaster at St. Edmunds-bury, till outed there on the same account. Hence he fled over into Fl…nders, thence into Italy, whence returning, at last he was fixed at Lovain. He wrote many, and translated more Books, living to finish his Jubile, or Fiftieth year o… exile beyond the Seas, where he died about the years of our Lord 1613. Let me add that this John Fen, mindeth me of another of the same surname and as violent on con…rary principles, viz. Humphrey Fen, a non-conformist Minister, living about Coventry, p. 30who in the preface to his last Will, Made such a Protestation against the Hierarchy and Ceremonies, that when his Will was brought to be proved, the ††See Master Clark, in the life of Juliane Harring. pag. 461.Preface would not be suffered to be put amongst the Records of the Court, as which indeed was no Limb, but a Wen of his Testament.

JOHN COLLINGTON was born in this **Pits Angl. script. pag. 807.County, bred in Lincoln-Colledge in Oxford. Going beyond the Seas and there made Priest, he returned into England, and with Campian was taken, cast into the Tower of London, and condemned, but afterwards reprieved, enlarged and sent beyond the Seas. Hence he returned, and for 30 years together zelously advanced his own Religion, being Assistant to the two Arch-Priests, and he himself supplied the Place in the vacancy betwixt them. He could not but be a very aged Man; who▪ though in restraint, was alive 1611.

Benefactors to the Publik.

The Lady MOHUN. Reader, know, I can surround the Christian Names of her ne…rest Relations. Her Husband was John, the last Lord Mohun, of Dunstor. Her eldest daughter Philip, married to Edward Duke of York, her second Elizabeth, to William Montacute Earl of Salisbury, her youngest Maud, matcht to the Lord Strange of Knockyn, bu… her own Christian Name I cannot recover.

However, she hath left a worthy memory behind her, chiefly on this account, that she obteined from her Husband, so much good ground for the Commons of the Town of Dunstor as she could in one**Camdens Brit. in this County. day, (believe it a Summer one for her ease and advantage) compasse about, going on her naked feet. Surely no Ingenious Scholar beheld her in that her charitable perambulation, but in effect vented his wishes in the **Virg. Eclog. decimâ.Poets expression,

Ah! tibi nè teneras tellus secet aspera plantas.

The certain date of her death is unknown, which by proportion is conjectured in the reign of King Henry the Fifth.

Since the Reformation.

NICHOLAS WADHAM of Merrifield in this County Esq. had great length in his extraction, breadth in his Estate, and depth in his liberality. His Hospital house was an Inn at all times, a Court at Cristmas. He married Dorothy, daughter to the Secretary, sister to the first Lord Peters.

Absolom, having no children, reared up for himself a**2 Sam. 18. 182 Sam 18:18 Pillar to perpetuate his name. This Worthy pair, being Issueless, erected that, which hath, doth, and will afford many Pillars to Church and State, the uniform and regular (nothing defective or superfluous therein) Colledge of Wadham in Oxford. Had this worthy Esquire (being a great Patron of Church-Livings) annexed some Benefices thereunto (which may be presumed, rather forgotten than neglected by him) it had for compleatenesse of Fabrick and endowment equalled any English Foundation.

If he was (which some suggest) a Romanist in his Judgement, his charity is the more commendable, to build a place for persons of a different perswasion. Whilst we leave the invisible root to the Searcher of hearts, let us thankfully gather the good fruit, which grew from it. He died before his Colledge was finished, his Estate by Co-heirs descending to Strangwayes, Windham, White, &c. and he lyeth buried with his wife under a stately Monument in the fair Church of Illminster.

PHILIP BISS was extracted from a worshipful Family in this County, who have had their habitation in Spargrave for some descents. Being bred Fellow, and Doctor in Divinity in Magdalen-Colledge in Oxford, he was afterwards preferred Arch-Deacon of Taunton. A Learned Man and great lover of Learning. Now though it be most true what Reverend Bishop Hall was wont to say, Of Friends and Books good and f…w are best. Yet this Doctor had good and many of both kinds. And at his death bequeathed his Library (consisting of so many Folio's as were valued at one thousand pounds) to Wadham Colledge, then newly founded.

This Epitaph was made upon him, wherein nothing of wit, save the Verbal-Allusion, which made itself without any pains of the Author thereof.

**Camdens remains, pag. 380Bis fuit hic natus, puer & Bis, Bis juvenisque.

Bis vir, Bisque senex, Bis Doctor, Bisque Sacerdos.

I collect by probable proportion that his death happened about the year 1614.

p. 31Memorable Persons.

Sir JOHN CHAMPNEIS son of Robert Champneis, was born at Chew in this County, but bred a Skinner in London, and Lord Major thereof 1535. Memorable he is on this account, that, whereas before his time there were no Turrets in London (save what in Churches and publick structures) he was the first private man, who in his house, next Cloth-workers Hall, built **S…ows Survey of London pag. 137.one to oversee his neighbours in the City, which delight of his eye was punished with blindness some years before his death. But seeing, prying into Gods secrets is a worse sin than over-looking mens houses; I dare not concurre with so Censorious an **Idem Ibidem.Author, because every consequent of a fact is not the punishment of a fault therein.

THOMAS CORIAT, Though some will censure him as a person rather ridiculous, than remarkable, he must not be omitted. For first, few would be found to call him Fool, might none do it save such, who had as much Learning as himself. Secondly, if others have more Wisdom than he, thankfulnesse and humility is the way to preserve and increase it.

He was born at Odcombe nigh Evil in this County, bred at Oxford, where he attained to admirable fluency in the Greek tongue. He carried folly (which the charitable called merriment) in his very face. The shape of his head had no promising form, being like a Sugarloaf inverted, with the little end before, as composed of fancy and memory, without any common-sense.

Such as conceived him fool ad duo and something else ad decem, were utterly mistaken. For he drave on no design, carrying for Coin and Counters alike: so contented with what was present, that he accounted those men guilty of superfluity, who had more suits and shirts than bodies, seldom putting off either, till they were ready to go away from him.

Prince Henry allowed him a pension and kept him for his Servant. Sweet-meats and Coriat made up the last course at all Court-entertainments. Indeed he was the Courtiers Anvil to trie their Witts upon, and sometimes this Anvil returned the Hammers as hard knocks as it received, his bluntnesse repaying their abusinesse.

His Book known by the name of Coriat's Crudities, nauceous to nice Readers, for the rawnesse thereof, is not altogether useless though the porch be more worth than the Palace, I mean the Preface of other mens mock-commending verses thereon.

At last he undertook to travail unto the East-Indies by land, mounted on an horse with ten toes, being excellently qualified for such a journey. For rare his dexterity (so properly as consisting most in manual signs) in interpreting and answering the dumb tokens of Nations, whose language he did not understand. Besides, such his patience in all distresses, that in some sort he might seem, cool'd with heat, fed with fasting, and refresh'd vvith weariness. All expecting his return with more knowledge (though not more wisdom) he ended his earthly pilgrimage in the midst of his Indian travail, about (as I collect) the year of our Lord 1616.

Lord Majors.

Know Reader, this is one of the Ten pretermitted Counties, the Names of whose Gentry were not by the Commissioners returned into the Tower in the 12 of K. Henry the sixth.

Sheriffes.

This County had the same with Dorsetshire until the ninth year of Queen Elizabeth, since which time these following have born the Office in this County alone.

King JAMES.

14 JOHN PAULET, Armiger.] He was son to S^r. Anthony Paulet (Governour of Jersey) by the sole daughter of Henry Lord Norrice, being the sole sister to the Brood of many Martial Brethren. A very accomplisht Gentleman of quick and clear parts, a bountiful housekeeper, so that King Charles consigned Monsieur Soubize unto him, who gave him and his retinue many months liberal entertainment. The said King afterwards created him Baron Paulet of Hinton St. George, in this County, descended to him from the Denbaudes, the ancient owners thereof. He married Elizabeth the daughter and sole Heir of Christopher Ken of Ken-Castle in the same Shire Esquire, whose right honourable son and heir John Lord Paulet now succeedeth in that Barony.

Modern Battles.

None have been fought in this County, which come properly under this Notion: Indeed the Skirmish at Martials Elm (something military and ominous in the name thereof) fought 1642 made much Noise in mens eares, (a Musket gave then a greater Report, than a Canon since.) And is remembred the more, because conceived first to break the Peace of this Nation, long restive and rusty in ease and quiet.

As for the encounter at Lang-port, where the Kings Forces under the Lord Goring were defeated by the Parliaments, July 12, 1645; It was rather a Flight than a Fight, like the Battle of Spurres (fought many years since) the Horse by their speed well saving themselves, whilst the poor Foot (pawned in the place) paid dearly for it. And hence forward the Sun of the Kings cause declined, verging more & more Westward, till at last it set in Cornwal, and since (after a long and dark night) rose again by Gods goodness in the East, when our Gracious Sovereign arrived at Dover.

The Farewel.

May he, who bindeth the Sea in a girdle of sand, confine it within the proper limits thereof, that Somerset-shire may never see that sad accident return, which hap'ned here 1607. When by the irruption of the Severn-Sea, much mischief was, more had been done, if the West-wind had continued longer with the like violence. The Country was overflown, almost 20 mil. in length, and 4 in breadth, and yet but 80 persons drowned therein. It was then observeable, that creatures of contrary natures; Dogs, Hares; Foxes, Conies; Cats, Mice; getting up to the tops of some hills, dispensed at that time with their antipathies, remaining peaceably together, without sign of fear or violence one towards another: To lesson men in publick dangers, to depose private differences, and prefer their safety, before their revenge.