The Saints Encouragement in Evil Times, Chapter 2

The Saints Encouragement in Evil Times · Chapter 2

p. 13CHAP. II.

Some memorable Collections concerning the Martyrs, especially out of Foxes three large volumes.

Polycarpus.

EVsebius **Hist. Eccles. l. 5. c. 19.Sir 50:5saith he was wont to say when he fell into the company of hereticks: Bone Deus in quae me tempora reservasti? Good God what times hast thou kept me for?

When Marcion the heretick casually met him and said, Cognoscis nos? Dost thou know us? Polycarpus answered, Cognosco primogenitum diaboli, I know the first born of the devil.

Being urged by the Proconsull to deny Christ, he answered: I have served him 86.**Hilarion morti proximus dixisse fertur, egredere, quid times? egredere anima mea, quid du…itas? septuaginta propè annis serviisti Christo, & mort…m times? Hier. epist. …am. lib. 3. & in ejus vit… ▪ years, and he hath not once hurt me, and shall I now deny him?

p. 14When he should have been tied to the stake, he required to stand untied, saying: Euse. hist. Eccles▪ Permi…tite me sic, inquit, Qui enim mihi dedit velle larg…etur & posse; atque ipsum tollerabilem faciet voluntati ignem ardentem. Smyrnensis Ecclesiae epistola, de S. Polycarpi Martyrio.Let me alone (I pray you) for he that gave me strength to come to the fire, will also give me patience to abide in the same without your tying.

Ignatius.

Being led from Syria to Rome, A Syria Romam usque terra marique cum testiis de pugno, noct… ac interdiu alligatus de cem Leopardis (quae est militaris custodia) qui & beneficio affecti pejores. fiunt, utinam fruar bestiis mihi paratis, quas opto veloce… mihi inveniri, quas & blanditiis demulcebo, ut citius me devorent, non ut quosd…m me…uentes non attigerunt, sed & si ipsae aversae nolint, ego illas vi adigam. Ignatii epistola ad Romanos.there to be devoured, he wished by the way as he went, that he were in the midst of those beasts which were ready to rent him in pieces, and that their appetites might be whetted to dispatch him quickly, fearing least it should happen to him as to some other Martyrs, that the beasts out of a kinde of reverence and humanity, would not dare to approach unto him; being ready, he said, rather to provoke them to fight, then that they should suffer him so to escape.

It is reported of him, by some popish p. 15writers (quam verè ipsi viderint) that he was so frequent in roling the name of Jesus in his mouth, that when he died, there was ingraved and written in his heart the character of that name in golden letters: This may be fabulous, but Christ was very dear unto him, he called him his love, meus amor crucifixus est **Ignatii epistola ad Romanos., my love (said he) is crucified.

When he heard the lions roaring, he said; I am the Lords wheat**Fr…mentum sum Dei, dentibus ferarum molo… ut mundus panis Dei inveniar. Ignat ep▪ ad Rom. that must be ground with the teeth of wilde beasts, that I may be found pure bread.

Ignis, crux, ferarum concursus, (sectiones, lanienae) ossium discerptiones, membrorum concisiones, totius corporis contritiones & diaboli tormenta in me veniant, tantummodo ut Jesum nanciscar. Id. ibid.

Come (saith he) fire, gallows, wilde beasts, breaking of bones, tearing p. 16of members, contrition of the whole body, and torments from the devil, so that I may gain Christ.

After all his sufferings he said, now I begin to be a Disciple.

John Hus.

Martin Luther in his preface to Daniel, cals him, sanctissimum Martyrem, a most holy Martyr, where he rehearseth also this prophesie of his: They shall now burn a Goose (for Hus in the Bohemian tongue signifies a Goose) but a Swan**Luther in the Bohemian language signifieth a Svvan. Foxes Acts and Mon. 1. vol p. 820. shall come after me, which shall escape their burning.

The Bishops caused to be made a certain crown of paper almost a cubit deep, in the which were painted three devils of wonderfull uglyshape, and this title set over their heads, Haeresiarcha **A Ring leader and Captain of an heresie.. The which when he saw, he said, My Lord Jesus Christ for my sake did wear a crown of thorns, why should not I then for his sake again, wear this light crown, be it never so ignominious? Truly p. 17I will doe it, and that willingly.

You knew how before my Priesthood (which grieveth me now) I have delighted to play oftentimes at chesse,Foxes 1. vol. p 830. Iohn Has repents his playing at chesse. and have neglected my time, and have unhappily provoked both my self and others to anger many times by that play.

Hierome of Prage.

He being condemned by the councell of Constance, thus prophesied, Et cito vos omnes, ut respondeatis mihi coram altissimo & justissimo judice post centum annos. Foxes 1… vol. p. 830Here I cite you to answer unto me before the most high & just Judge within a hundred years.

He said thus to the Executioner, make the fire in my sight, for if I had feared it I had never come hither.

Henry Voes and John Esch.

Henry Voes and John Esch Friers,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 2 p. 102. K. Hen. being burned at Bruxels, one of them seeing that fire was kindled at his feet, said, Me thinks ye doe straw rooses under my feet.

p. 18Peter Moice.

One of the Martyrs which suffered in Germany, being called befor… the Senate at Dornick, they bega… to examine him of certain articles … religion. To whom as he was abou… to answer boldly and expressely t… every point,Foxes Act, and Mon. in 2. vol. Henry 8. p. 122. they interrupting him▪ bad him say in two words, either yea or nay: Then said he, If ye will not suffer me to answer for my self it matters of such importance, send me to my prison again among my toad… and frogs, which will not interrup… me while I talk with my Lord my God.

Peter Serre.

One of the Martyrs which suffered in France, Foxes Acts and Mon. 2. vol p 143. Plures efficimur quotiesme timur a vobis. Ter.being put to the fire stood so quiet, looking up to heaven all the time of his burning, as though he had felt nothing, bringing such admiration to the people, that one of the Parliament said, that way was p. 19not best to bring the Lutherans to the fire, for that would doe more hurt then good.

Bartholmew Hector.

A French Martyr at his death,Foxes ib▪ p. 155. praying and speaking heavenly to the people, and taking his death patiently, many of the people wept, saying, why doth this man die which speaketh of nothing but of God?

Pomponius Algerius.

An Italian Martyr,Foxes Acts and Mon. 2. vol p. 183. thus underwrites a comfortable letter of his to some of his Christian friends,

From the delectable Orchyard of Leonine prison.

Patrick Hamelton.

Certain faithfull men being present the same time when this Scottish Martyr was in the fire,Foxes 2. vol. K. Henry the 8. p. 238. they heard him to cite and appeal the black Frier called Cambell that accused him p. 20to appear before the high God,See the like propheticall speech of Philbert Hamlin in Foxes …. vol. p 151. And of a poor man in Calice, p 565. And of Roger Holland, 2. vol. p. 145. a… generall Judge of all men, to answer to the innocencie of his death and whether his accusation were ju… or not, between that and a certai… day of the next monethmonth, which h… there named. By the same witness… it is testified, that the said Frier died immediately before the day came without remorse of conscience, that he had persecuted the innocent.

Thomas Bilney.

His first conversion was by reading the new Testament set out by Erasmus, and particularly, 1 Tim. 1. 15. At the last (saith he) I heard speak of Jesus, even then when the new Testament was first set forth by Erasmus, which when I understood to be eloquently done by him, being assured rather for the Latine then for the word of God (for at that time I knew not what it meant) I bought it even by the providence of God, as I doe now well understand and perceive: And at the first reading p. 21(as I well remember) I chanced upon this sentence of S^t Paul (O most sweet and comfortable sentence to my soul) in his first epistle to Timoth. chap. 1. vers. 15.Foxes Acts and Mon in 2. vol K He. 8. p. 268. It is a true saying and worthy of all men to be embraced, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the chief. This one sentence through Gods instruction and inward working, which I did not then perceive, did so exhilerate my heart, being before wounded with the guilt of my sins, and being almost in despair, that immediately I felt a marvellous comfort and quietnesse, in so much that my brused bones leapt for joy.Psal 50.Ps 50

After this, the Scripture began to be more pleasant unto me then the hony or the hony-comb.

Latimer cals him in his Sermons,Foxes Acts and Mon. 2. vol. K He. 8. p. 271, 27…. And 3. vol. p. 450. blessed Saint Bilney, and shews how he was converted by him, and in what anguish of soul Bilney was in after his abjuration, and that he returned again and suffered for the Gospel.

p. 22Being in the prison he divers time proved the fire by putting his finge… near to the candle: At the first touc… of the candle, his flesh resisting, an… he withdrawing his finger, did afte… chide his flesh in these words, Qu… (inquit) unius membri inustione… ferre non potes, Soultet. Annal. Anno 153& quo pacto cras t…tius corporis conflagrationem tolerabi… What (saith he) canst not tho… bear the burning of one member and how wilt thou endure to mor… row the burning of thy whole body▪ The night before his execution, divers of his friends resorted unto hi… in the Guild Hall where he was kep… amongst which one of them findin… him eating an Alebrew with a cheerfull heart and quiet minde, said, that he was glad to see him at that time so shortly before his painfull an… heavy departure, so heartily to refresh himself:Foxes 2. vol p. 277. Whereunto he answered, O said he, I follow the example of the husbandmen of the countrey, who having a ruinou… house to dwell in, yet bestow cos… as long as they may to hold it up▪ p. 23And so doe I now with this ruinous house of my body, and with Gods creatures, in thanks to him, refresh the same as ye see. Then sitting with his said friends in godly talk to their edification, some put him in minde, that though the fire which he should suffer the next day, should be of great heat unto his body, yet the comfort of Gods Spirit should cool it to his everlasting refreshing. At this word the said Thomas Bilney putting his hand toward the flame of the candle burning before them (as also he did divers times besides) and feeling the heat thereof, O (said he) I feel by experience, and have known it long by Philosophy, that fire by Gods Ordinance is naturally hot, but yet I am perswaded by Gods holy Word, and by the experience of some spoken of in the same, that in the flame they felt no heat, and in the fire they felt no consumption: and I constantly beleeve, howsoever that the stubble of this my body shall be wasted by it,Fox ubi supra. yet my soul and spirit shall be purged thereby, a pain p. 24for the time whereon followeth … unspeakable. And then most co… fortably entreated of Isa. 43. 1, 2. well in respect of himself, as app… ing it to the particular use of friends there present, of whom for took such sweet fruit therein, th… they caused the words to be … written on tables, and some in the books. The comfort whereof (… divers of them) was never tak… from them to their dying day.

James Bainham.

As he was at the stake in the mid… of the flaming fire which had ha… consumed his arms and legs, Foxes …. vol. K. He. 8. p. 301.he spak… these words: O ye Papists, behold … look for miracles, and here now y… may see a miracle, for in this fire I f… no more pain, then if I were in a bed… down: but it is to me as a bed of rose… ▪

William Tyndall.

For his notable pains and travel he may well be called the Apostle o… England in this our later age.Foxes Acts and Mon. 2. vol. p. 361.

p. 25He translated the new Testament, and five books of Moses; for his faithfulnesse therein, observe his own words, I call God to record against the day we shall appear before our Lord Jesus,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 2. p. 367. to give our reckoning of our doings, that I never altered one syllable of Gods words against my conscience, nor would doe this day, if all that is in earth, whether it be honour, pleasure or riches, might be given me.

There was at Antwerp on a time amongst a company of Merchants, as they were at Supper, a certain jugler which through his diabolicall inchantment of art magicall, would fetch all kinde of viands and wine from any place they would, and set it upon the table presently before them,Fox ib. Tindall said I will go and see this, but I wil set my faith to beleeve t…e contrary. with many other such like things. The same of this jugler being much talked of, it chanced that Master Tindall heard of it, he desired certain of the merchants that he might also be present at Supper to see him play his parts. The Supper was appointed, and the Merchants p. 26with Tindall were there prese… ▪ Then the jugler being required … play his feats,The power of Gods Saints against the devil. and to shew his cuning, after his wonted boldnesse began to utter all that he could d… but all was in vain.He said, I cannot do it, for there sits the man (pointing to Tindal) who holds my hands. At the last w… his labour, sweating and toili… when he saw that nothing would … forward, but that all his encha…ments were void, he was compell… openly to confesse, that there w… some man present at supper, whi… disturbed and letted all his doings.

He cried at the stake with a fe… vent zeal and a loud voice,**He was burned at Filford in Flanders. Le… open the King Fox ib.of Englands eies.

John Lambert.

After that his legs were consum… and burned to the stumps, he lifti… up such hands as he had, and his fi…gers ends flaming with fire,Foxes Acts and Mon. 2. vol. p. 427. cri… unto the people in these words, No… but Christ, none but Christ.

Anthony Person.

He being come to the place of …ecution, p. 27with a cheerfull countenance embraced the post in his arms, and kissing it,Foxes Acts and Mon. 2d. vol p. 554. said, Now welcome mine own sweet wife; for this day shall thou and I be married together in the love and peace of God.

Henry Filmer.

He said to Person and Testwood, two other Martyrs which died with him,Foxes …d. vol. p. 555. The like words spake the L. Cromwell to the L. Hungerford, they both going to their death. Be merry my brethren and lift up your hands unto God, for after this sharp breakefast, I trust we shall have a good dinner in the kingdome of Christ our Lord and Redeemer. At the which words Testwood lifting up his hands and eies to heaven, desired the Lord above to receive his spirit. And Anthony Person pulling the straw unto him, laid a good deal thereof upon the top of his head, saying, This is Gods hat; now I am dressed like a true souldier of Christ, by whose merits only I trust this day to enter into his joy. Many which saw their patitient suffering, confessed that they could have found in their hearts (at p. 28the present) to have died with them.

Adam Damplip.

He understanding from the Keepe… that he should soon suffer, was ye… merry and did eat his meat as wel… as ever he did in all his life, in so much that some at the bord said unto him, that they marvelled how he could eat his meat so well,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 2d. p 564. knowing he was so near his death. Ah master▪ quoth he, doe you think that I hav… been Gods prisoner so long in the Mar… shalsey, and have not yet learned to dy Yes, yes, and I doubt not but God wi… strengthen me therein.

Kerby.

Master Wingfield said to Kerby … prison, Remember the fire is ho… take no more upon thee then tho… canst perform,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 2d p. 586. the terrour is grea… the pain will be extream, and life … sweet: Better it were betime to sti… to mercy, while there is hope of lif… p. 29then rashly to begin and then to shrink. To whom Kerby replied, Ah, Master Wingfield, be at my burning and you shall say, there standeth a Christian souldier in the fire: for I know that fire and water, sword and all other things are in the hands of God, and he will suffer no more to be laid upon us then he will give us strength to bear.

Anne Askew.

Pray, pray**She said so twice. Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. …d. p. 576, 578. Sanders saith the s…me tvvice. George Marsh saith, pray, pray, pray, never more need. Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 235., pray.

To her confession in Newgate she thus subscribes.

Written by me Anne Askew, that neither wisheth death, nor feareth his might, and as merry as**Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. …d. p 576. Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 2d. p. 580. one that is bound towards heaven.

Wrisley Lord Chancellour sent her letters (being at the stake) offering to her the Kings pardon if she would recant, who refusing once to look upon them, made this answer again, that she came not thither to deny her Lord and Master.

p. 30Sir George Blague.

He being one of the Kings privy Chamber, was condemned and appointed to be burned,Foxes Acts and Mon. 2d. vol p. 586, 587. but being pardoned by the King, and coming after into his presence; Ah my Pig (saith the King to him, for so he was wont to call him) Yea, said he, if you… Majestie had not been better to m… then your Bishops were, your Pig had been rosted ere this time.

M^r John Rogers.

That morning he should be burned he was found asleep,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 130. and could scarce with much jogging be awaked: At length being raised and waked, and bid to make haste, the… said he, if it be so I need not to ti… my points.

The sunday before he suffered, he drank to M^r Hooper, being then underneath him,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 130. and bad them commend him unto him, and tell him there was never little fellow would p. 31better stick to a man, then he would stick to him, presupposing they should both be burned together, although it happened otherwise, for M^r Rogers was burnt alone.

He was the Protomartyr of all the blessed company that suffered in Queen Maries time,He was a bold Israelite that first s…t his foot into the red sea saies D. Hall. Foxes Acts and Mon. 3d. vol p. 131. that gave the first adventure upon the fire. His wife and children being eleven in number, ten able to go, and one sucking on her breast, met him by the way as he went toward Smithfield; this sorrowfull sight of his own flesh and bloud could nothing move him, but that he constantly and chearfully took his death with wonderfull patience in the defence of Christs Gospel.

Laurence Sanders.

He seeming to be somewhat troubled at his lodging, one which was there about him asked him how he did:Foxes Acts and Mon. In very deed (saith he) I am in prison till I be in prison: Meaning, that his minde was unquiet untill he p. 32had preached, and that then he should have quietnesse of minde, though he were put in prison. He that did lie with him in prison in the same bed, reported that he heard him say, that even in the time of his examination he was wonderfully comforted, in so much as not only in spirit but also in body, he received a certain taste of that holy communion of Saints, whilst a most pleasant refreshing did issue from every part and member of the body, unto the seat and place of the heart, and from thence did ebb to and fro unto all the parts again.

At Coventry (where he was burned) a poor Shoemaker which was wont to serve him of shoes, came to him and said; O my good master, God strengthen and comfort you Gran mercy good Shoemaker,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 140. quoth Master Sanders, and I pray thee to pray for me, for I am the unmeetest man for this high office, that ever was appointed to it; but my gracious God and dear Father is able to make me strong enough.

p. 33When he came to the fire he fell to the ground and praied, then he rose up again and took the stake to which he should be chained, in his arms,Id. ib. and kissed it, saying: Welcome the crosse of Christ, welcome everlasting life: and being fastened to the stake, and fire put to him, full sweetly he slept in the Lord.

In the beginning of Q. Maries time, there being a communication between Laurence Sanders and D. Pendleton, the Doctor took upon him to comfort M^r Sanders all that he might, admonishing him not to start aside,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3. p. 140, 141. having put his hand to Gods plough; I will see said he (being a fat man) the utmost drop of this grease of mine molten away, and the last gobbet of this flesh consumed to ashes, before I will forsake God and his truth. Sanders on the other side seemed so fearfull and feeblespirited, that he seemed rather to fall quite from Gods word which he had taught, then to stick to his profession and abide by his tacle, but after Sanders suffered most willingly, p. 34and Pendleton played the Apostata.

M^r John Hooper.

Being at Zarick with Bullinger, at his parting with him he promised to write unto him how it went with him.B. Hooper prophesieth of himself. But the last news of all I shall not be able to write: for there, said he (taking M. Bullinger by the hand) where I shall take most pains,Foxes Act, and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 145. there shall you hear of me to be burned to ashes, and that shall be the last news, which I shall not be able to write unto you, but you shall hear of me.

When M^r Hooper being made Bishop of Worcester and Glocester should have his Arms given him by the Herald, as the manner is for every Bishop to have his Arms assigned unto him (whether by the Bishops or Heralds appointment is uncertain) the Arms to him allotted was a Lamb in a fiery bush,Fox ibid. p. 146. and the sunbeams from heaven descended down upon the Lamb, rightly denoting as it seemed, the order of his suffering, which afterward followed.

p. 35His life was so pure and good, that no kinde of slander (although divers went about to reprove it) could fasten any fault upon it. I know not one of all those vertues and qualities required of S^t Paul in a good Bishop,Epistle to Timothy. lacking in this good Bishop.

Bishop Ridley and he differed about the ceremonies,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p 147. yet both being in prison for the truths sake they were reconciled.

Every day his manner was to have to dinner a certain number of poor folk of Worcester by course,While he vvas Bishop of Glocester and Worcester in K. Edw. time. who were served by four at a messe, with whole and wholesome meats: and when they were served (being afore examined by him or his Deputies of the Lords prayer, the Articles of their faith,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 148. and ten Commandments) then he himself sate down to dinner, and not before.

Sir Anthony Kingston his friend coming to him a little before his death,Foxes Acts and Mon. 3d. vol p. 153. used these words, Life is sweet and death bitter, to whom he replied, that the death to come was more bitter, and the life to come more sweet.

p. 36A blinde boy being brought unto him, who had not long afore suffered imprisonment at Glocester for confessing of the truth, Master Hooper after he had examined him of his faith and the cause of his imprisonment, beheld him stedfastly, and (the water appearing in his eies) said unto him:Id. ib. Ah poor boy, God hath taken from thee thy outward sight, for what consideration he best knoweth; but he hath given thee another sight much more precious, for he hath indued thy soul with the eye of knowledge and faith: God give thee grace continually to pray unto him, that thou lose not that sight, for then shouldst thou be blinde both in body and soul.

Being at the stake, and having entred into his prayer, a box wa… brought and laid before him upon▪ stool with his pardon (or at least fained so to be) from the Queen if he would turn: At the sight where of he cried,Foxes Acts and Mon vol 3d. p. 154. If you love my soul away with it, if you love my soul away wit… it. The box being taken the Lor… p. 37Shandoys said, Seeing there is no remedy dispatch him quickly. Master Hooper said, good my Lord, I trust you will give me leave to make an end of my praiers.

Doctor Taylor.

He told the Sheriffe and others (who laboured to turn him to the Popish religion) that he had been deceived himself, and was like to deceive a great many of Hadley of their expectation. I am (said he) as you see, a man that hath a very great carkasse, which I thought should have been buried in Hadley Church-yard,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3. p. 176. if I had died in my bed as I well hoped I should have done; but herein I see I was deceived: and there are a great number of worms in Hadley Church-yard which should have had jolly feeding upon this carrion, which they have looked for many a day: but now I know we be deceived, both I and they; for this carkasse must be burned to ashes, and so shall they loose their bait and p. 38feeding that they look to have had of it.

Having light off his horse in his journey to Hadley a little afore he suffered,Id. Ibid. 177. he leapt and fet a frisk or twain, as men commonly doe in dancing:Another Martyr said, hold out faith and patience your vvork is almost at an end. M^r Doctor quoth the Sheriffe, how doe you now, he answered; well, God be praised good M^r Sheriffe, never better, for now I know I am almost at home, I lack not past two stiles to go over, and I am even at my fathers house.

The same morning in which he was called up by the Sheriffe to go to his burning (about three of the clock in the morning) being suddainly awaked out of his sound sleep,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 179. he sate up in his bed, and putting on his shirt, had these words, speaking somewhat thick after his accustomed manner: Ah horson theeves, ah horson theeves, rob God of his honour, rob God of his honour.

Afterward being risen and tying his points, he cast his arms about a balke which was in the chamber between M^r Bradfords bed and his:Id. ib. p. 39and there hanging by the hands, said to Master Bradford: O Master Bradford, quoth he, what a notable swing should I give if I were hanged?

William Hunter.

His mother said to him a little before his suffering, that she was glad that ever she was so happy to bear such a childe which could finde in his heart to lose his life for Christs name sake. Then William said to his mother, Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 193.for my little pain which I shall suffer, Christ hath promised me mother (said he) a crown of joy, may you not be glad of that mother? with that his mother kneeled down on her knees, saying; I pray God strengthen thee my son to the end, yea I think thee as well bestowed as any childe that ever I bare.

Being at the stake, he said, Son of God shine upon me, and immediately the sun in the firmament shone out of a dark cloud so full in his face,Fox ibid. 193, 194. that he was constrained to look another way, whereat the people mused p. 40because it was so dark a little time before.

John Lawrence.

He being not able to go (because his legs were so worn with heavy irons in prison,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 200. and his body weakned with evil keeping) was born to the fire in a chair, and he sitting in the fire, the young children came about the fire and cried as well as young children could speak, saying, Lord strengthen thy servant and keep thy promise, Lord strengthen thy servant and keep thy promise.

D^r Farrar Bishop of S^t Davids.

One Richard Jones a Knights son coming to M. Farrar a little before his death, seemed to lament the painfulnesse of the death he had to suffer, unto whom the Bishop answered again to this effect, saying, that if he saw him once to stir in the pains of his burning,Foxes Act… and Mon. vol. d…2. he should then give no credit to his doctrine. And as he said, so he right well performed p. 41the same; for so patiently he stood, that he never moved, but even as he stood, holding up his stumps, so still he continued, till one Richard Gravell with a staff dashed him upon the head, and so struck him down.

Rawlins White.

The Bishop of Landaffe asking him whether he would revoke his opinions or no. Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. 219.Surely (said Rawlins) my Lord, Rawlins you left me, and Rawlins you finde me, and by Gods grace Rawlins I will continue.

The night before he was to suffer, he sent to his wife, and willed her by the messenger that in any wise she should make ready and send unto him his wedding garment, meaning a shirt, which afterward he was burned in.

As he went to the place of execution, in his way his poor wife and children stood weeping,Fox ib. p. 220. See before in Rogers. and making great lamentation: the sudden sight of whom so pierced his heart, that the very tears trickled down his face, p. 42but he soon after, as though he had misliked this infirmity of his flesh, began to be as it were altogether angry with himself, in so much, that in his striking his breast with his hand, he used these words; Ah flesh, staiest thou me so? wouldst thou fain prevail? well, I tell thee doe what thou canst, thou shalt not by Gods grace have victory.

Thomas Haukes.

Darbishire Bishop Bonners kinsman said unto him, that he was too curious, for he would have nothing but his little pretty Gods book. And is it not sufficient for my salvation? said Haukes: Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 257.Yes (said he) it is sufficient for our salvation, but not for our instruction: God send me the salvation (said Haukes) and you the instruction.

Some of Haukes his friends privily desired him, that in the midst of the flame he would shew them some token if he could, whether the pain of suffering were so great, that a p. 43man might not therein keep his minde quiet and patient. Which thing he promised them to do,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 265, 266. and so secretly between them it was agreed, that if the rage of the pain were tolerable and might be suffered, then he should lift up his hands above his head toward heaven, before he gave up the ghost. Having continued long in the flame, and his speech being taken away by the violence of the flame, and his fingers consumed with the fire, so that now all men thought certainly he had been gon, suddenly and contrary to expectation the blessed servant of God, being mindfull of his promise afore made, reached up his hands burning on a light fire (which was marvellous to behold) over his head to the living God, and with great rejoicing, as seemed, strook or clapped them three times together: At the sight whereof there followed such applause and out-cry of the people, and especially of them which understood the matter, that the like had not commonly been heard.

p. 44John Bradford.

He did not eat above one meal a day; which was but very little when he took it: and his continuall study was upon his knees. In the midst of dinner he used often to muse with himself, having his hat over his eies, from whence came commonly plenty of tears dropping on his trencher.Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 181. He was very gentle to man and childe, and in so good credit with his keeper, that at his desire in an evening (being prisoner in the Kings bench in Southwark) he had licenc… upon his promise to return again that night, to go into London without any keeper to visit one that was sick lying by the Still-yard: Neither did he fail his promise, but returned unto his prison again, rather preventing his hour then breaking his fidelity. He slept not commonly above four hours in the night; and in his bed till sleep came, his book went not out of his hand. He counted that hour not well spent wherein p. 45he did not some good, either with his pen, study, or in exhorting of others.

Whosoever (saith he) hath not learned the lesson of the crosse,Qui non est Crucianus non est Christianus. Luth. hath not learned his A, B, C, in Christianity.

He was not content till he found God coming into his spirit with severall dispensations, according to the severall parts of his prayer.

The keepers wife came up suddenly to him (he being in the keepers chamber) as one half amazed, and seeming much troubled,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol: 3. p. 282. being almost windelesse, said, O M. Bradford, I come to bring you heavy news, what is that, said he? marry quoth she to morrow you must be burned, and your chain is now a buying, and soon you must go to Newgate; with that M. Bradford put off his cap, and lifting up his eies to heaven, said, I thank God for it; I have looked for the same time, and therefore it cometh not now to me suddenly, but as a thing waited for every day and hour, the Lord make me worthy thereof.

p. 46Creswell offering to make sute for M. Bradford: He thus answered, I… the Queen will give me life I will thank her, if she will banish me I will thank her, if she will burn me I will thank her, if she will condem… me to perpetuall imprisonment, I will thank her.

Some of the subscriptions of his letters were observable,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 356, 357.

The most miserable, heardhearted, unthankfull sinner, John Bradford.

A very painted hypocrite, John Bradford.

Christopher Waid.

As soon as he was fastened to the stake, he spake (his hands and eies being lifted up to heaven) with … cheerfull and loud voice, the last verse of the 86. Psalm. Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 382.Shew me … token for good, that they which hate m… may see it and be ashamed, because thou Lord hast holpen me and comforted me.

Fire being put unto him, he cried unto God often, Lord Jesus receive p. 47my soul, without any sign of impatiency in the fire, till at length after the fire was once throughly kindled,See a strange token also upon Robert Smith in the fire, Fox ib. 410. he was heard by no man to speak, still holding his hands up over his head together towards heaven, even when he was dead and altogether rosted, as though they had been staid up with a prop standing under them.

Robert Samuell a Minister.

He would often in prison have drank his own water, but his body was so dried up with his long emptinesse, that he was not able to make one drop of water: After he had been pined with hunger two or three daies together, he then fell into a sleep,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3. p. 414. as it were one half in a slumber, at which time one clad all in white seemed to stand before him which ministred comfort unto him by these words, Samuel, Samuel, be of good cheer, and take a good heart unto thee, for after this day shalt thou never be either hungry or thirsty. Which thing came even to passe p. 48accordingly, for speedily after he wa… burned, and from that time till b… should suffer, he felt neither hung… nor thrist.

Robert Glover.

After he was condemned by the B… shop, and was near his death, tw… or three daies before his heart bein… lumpish and destitute of all spiritual… consolation, he felt in himself … aptnesse nor willingnesse, but rathe… a dulnesse of spirit, full of much dis…comfort to bear the bitter crosse o… martyrdome ready to be laid upo… him. Whereupon fearing in himself least the Lord had utterly with drawn his wonted favour from hi… he made his moan to Austen Benh… a Minister, and his familiar frien… signifying how earnestly he had pra… ed day and night unto the Lord, an… yet could receive no motion, no sense of any comfort from him: unto whom the said Austen answerin… again, desired him patiently to wai… the Lords pleasure, and howsoeve… p. 49his present feeling was, yet seeing his cause was just and true, he exhorted him constantly to stick to the same,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 427. and to play the man, nothing misdoubting but the Lord in his good time would visit him, and satisfie his desire with plenty of consolation, whereof (he said) he was right certain, and therefore desired him whensoever any such feeling of Gods heavenly mercies should begin to touch his heart, that then he should shew some signification thereof, whereby he might witnesse with him the same, and so departed from him. The next day when the time came of his martyrdome, as he was going to the place, and was now come to the sight of the stake, although all night before praying for strength and courage he could feel none, suddenly he was so mightily replenished with Gods holy comfort, and heavenly joyes, that he cried out clapping his hands to Austen, and saying in these words, Austen he is come, he is come, and that with such joy and ala…rity, as one seeming rather to be risen p. 50from some deadly danger to liberty of life, then as one passing out of the world by any pains of death. Such was the change of the marvellous working of the Lords hand upon that good man.

Bishop Ridley.

He offering to preach before the Lady Mary (being made Queen) was refused. He was after brought by Sir Thomas Wharton to a room, and desired to drink. After he had drunk, he paused a little while looking very sadly, and suddenly brake out into these words; Surely I have done amisse, Why so? quoth S^r Thomas Wharton. Foxes Acts and Mon. 2d. vol. p. 788.For I have drunk (said he) in that place where Gods Word offered hath been refused. Whereas if I had remembred my duty, I ought to have departed immediately, and to have shaken off the dust of my shoes for a testimony against this house. These words were spoken by him with such a vehemency, that some of the hearers afterward confessed, that it made p. 51their hair stand upright on their heads.

The night before he suffered, his bear'd was washed and his legs, and as he sate at supper the same night at M. Irishes (who was his keeper) he bad the hostesse and the rest of the bord to his marriage;Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 502. for, saith he, tomorrow I must be married, and so shewed himself to be as merry as ever he was at any time before. M. Ridley looking (as he was going to the stake) espied Master Latimer coming after,Id, Ibid. unto whom he said, O be ye there, Yea, said M. Latimer, have after as fast as I can follow: After they came both to the stake, D. Ridley with a wondrous chearfull look ran to M. Latimer, imbraced and kissed him, and as they that stood near reported, comforted him, saying: Fox ubi supra.Be of good heart, brother, for God will either asswage the fury of the flame, or else strengthen us to abide it.

D. Smith preached at the burning of Bishop Ridley and M. Latimer on the first of the Corinth. 13. 3. wherein p. 52he railed against the Martyrs (and these two especially) crying still to the people to beware of them, for they were heretikes, and died out of the Church. D^r Ridley (after the Sermon was ended) desired liberty to speak,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p 502, 503. but could not obtain it, unlesse he would revoke his erroneous opinions and recant. To which he answered, so long as the breath is in my body, I will never deny my Lord Christ, and his known truth: Gods will be done in me, and said with a loud voice, Well, then I commit our cause to Almighty God, which shall indifferently judge all.

M. Hugh Latimer.

In King Edwards time he did so evidently fore-shew and prophecy o… all those kindes of plagues which afterwards ensued,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 461. that if England ever had a Prophet, he might seem to be one. And as touching himself h… ever affirmed, that the preaching of the Gospel would cost him his life.

p. 53When the Lieutenants man upon a time came to him in prison,Fox ib. the aged **He was called father Latimer▪ viz. Not burn, but starve for cold.Father kept without a fire in the frosty winter, and well nigh starved for cold, merrily bad the man tell his master, that if he did not look the better to him perchance he would deceive him.

He praied fervently, and oftentimes so long continued… kneeling,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 463. that he was not able to rise without help. The three principal matters he praied for, were

First, That as God had appointed him to be a Preacher of his Word, so also he would give him grace to stand to his doctrine untill his death, that he might give his heart-bloud for the same.

Secondly, That God of his mercy would restore his Gospel to England once again, and these words, Once again, once again, he did so inculcate, as though he had seen God before him,The Lord did most graciously grant all these requests. and spoken to him face to face.

His third request was for the preservation of Queen Elizabeth, whom p. 54in his praier he was wont to name, and even with his tears desired God to make her a comfort to this comfortlesse Realm of England.

Upon new-years day every Bishop was used to present the King with some handsome new-years gift,Latimers new years gift sent to K. Hen. the 8. so they did some with gold, some with silver, some with a purse full of money, and some one thing, and some another: but M. Latimer being Bishop of Worcester then,Foxes Act, and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 486. among the rest presented a new Testament for his new-years gift with a napkin having this posie about it, Fornicatores & adulteros **Heb. 13▪ 4Heb 13:4judicabit Dominus, Fornicatours and adulterers God will judge.

To some that asked him why one that preacht his Sermon did not preach as he did,They both suffered together in Oxford against Baily College Martialis Epig. he answered, he had his siddle and stick, but wanted his rozen.

Quem recitas meus est O Fidentine, libellus:

Sed malè dum recitas, incipit esse tuus.

He spake to M. Ridley at the stake p. 55with him in this manner; Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 503.Be of good comfort M. Ridley, and play the man, we shall this day light such a candle by Gods grace in England, as I trust shall neve… be put out.

M. John Philpot.

Bishop Bonner said thus to him, What say you to the omnipotency of God?Foxes Act… and Mon. 3d. vol p. 555. Is not he able to perform that which he spoke? This is my body, I tell thee that God by his omnipotency may make himself to be this carpet if he will. To whom Philpot answered, God is able to do whatsoever he willeth, but he willeth nothing which is not agreeable to his Word: Non potest Deus facere quae sunt naturae suae contraria. It is contrary to the nature of God to be a carpet, for a Creator to be the creature. A messenger from the Sheriffs coming to M. Philpot, Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 593.and bidding him make ready, for the next day he should suffer and be burned at a stake with fire. Master Philpot answered and said, I am ready; God grant me strength, p. 56and a joyfull resurrection. And so he went into his chamber, and poured out his spirit unto the Lord God, giving him most hearty thanks, that he of his mercy had made him worthy to suffer for his truth.

As he went with the Sheriffs to the place of execution, entring into Smithfield the way was foul, and two Officers took him up to bear him to the stake.Fox ibid. Then said he merrily, What? Will ye make me a Pope? I am content to goe my journies end on foot. But first coming into Smithfield he kneeled down there, saying these words; I will pay my vows in thee, O Smithfield. And when he was come to the place of suffering, he kissed the stake, and said, Shall I disdain to suffer at this stake, seeing my Redeemer did not refuse to suffer a most vile death upon the crosse for me?

Thomas Cranmer Archbishop of Canterbury.

He was so milde to his enemies that if any of them (who had wronged p. 57him) would seem never so slenderly to relent or excuse himself,His life is written in latin (out of Fox) by Melchior Adam. he would both forget the offence committed, and also evermore afterward friendly entertain him, insomuch that it came into a common proverb,Foxes Acts and Mon. 3 vol. p. 63…. Doe unto my Lord of Canterbury a displeasure, a shrewd turn, and then you may be sure to have him your friend while be liveth.

He was a means to bring some learned men from beyond sea into England, as Bucer, Paulus Fagius, Peter Martyr, Tremellius **Hom… foreign, nec minus foreign (Thomas Cranmerus Cantuariensis Archiepiscopus) me non solum excepit, sed etiam in aula sua aliquandiu detinuit. Sed quid aulam invidioso verbo nomino? Schola certè fuit, vel palaestra pietatis & literarum. Tremel. epist. in Hos▪ enarrat., being very hospitable to learned and pious men. And there are in Calvins Epistles letters between Calvin and him.

When the fire began to burn near him,Foxes Acts and Mon. 3d. book, p. 671. he stretching out his arm put his right hand to the flame, which he held so stedfast and immoveable (saving that once with the same hand he p. 58wiped his face) that all men might see his hand burned before his body was touched. His eyes were lifted up into heaven, and oftentimes he repeated his unworthy**Because by his right hand he had formerly subscribed his recantation. right hand, so long as his voice would suffer him; and using often the words of Stephen, Lord Jesus receive my spirit; in the greatnesse of the flame he gave up the ghost.

William Tyms.

He being brought and examined before Bishop Boner and the Bishop of Bath, The Bishops began to pi…y Tyms case, and to flatter him, saying; Ah good fellow thou art bold, and thou hast a good fresh spirit, we wish thou hadst learning to thy spirit. I thank you (my Lord) said Tyms,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 682. and both you be learned, and I would you had a good spirit to your learning.

p. 59Hugh Laverock an old lame man, John Apprice a blinde man, Martyrs, burn'd at Stratford the Bow.

At their death Hugh Laverock after he was chained, casting away his cr…tch, and comforting John Apprice his fellow martyr, Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 701.said unto him; Be of good comfort my brother, for my Lord of London is our good Physitian. He will heal us both shortly; thee of thy blindenes, and me of me lamenesse.

Bradbridges wife.

When she was condemned of the Bishop to be burned, she had two children named Patience and Charity. Who then said to the Bishop, That if he would needs burn her, yet she trusted that he would take and keep Patience and Charity, Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d. p. 2, 7.meaning her two children. Nay, quoth the Bishop, by the faith of my body I will meddle with neither of them both.

p. 60Elizabeth Folks.

She being a young maiden and examined, Foxes Acts and Mon, vol. 3d. 832. Id. ibid. 833.whether she believed the presence of Christs body to be in the Sacrament substantially and really o… no, answered, that she believed it was a substantiall lie,There is no use of faith and hope in heaven, love & joy remain. See 1 Cor. 8. 13.1 Cor 8:13 and a reall lie.

When she was at the stake, she said, Farewell all the world, Farewell faith, Farewell hope, and so taking the stake in her hand, said, Welcome love.

William Sparrow.

He said thus to Bishop Boner, that which you call truth I do believe to be heresie,Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 557. and that which you call heresie is good and godly, and if every hair of my head were a man (said he) I would burn them all rather then go from the truth, &c.

John Rough.

Master Rough being at the burning of Austen in Smithfield, and returning p. 61homeward again,Foxes Acts and Mon. 3d. vol. p. 862. met with one M. Farrar, a merchant of Hallifax who asked him where he had been. Unto whom he answered, I have been where I would not for one of mine eyes, but I had been. Where have you been, said M. Farrar? Forsooth (saith he) to learn the way. And so he told him he had been at the burning of Austoo, where shortly after he was burned himself.

Roger Holland.

He said thus to Bishop Boner. Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3d p. 877.This I dare be bold in God to speak (which by his Spirit I am moved to say) that God will shorten your hand of cruelty, that for a time you shall not molest his Church. And this shall you in a short time well perceive, my dear brethren, to be most true. For after this day, in this place shall not there any by him**B Boner, after which day no man suffered in Smithfield for the testimony of the Gospel. be put to the triall of fire and fagot.

p. 62William Pikes.

Somewhat before his apprehension, he sitting in his garden, and reading in a Bible, suddenly there fell down upon his book between 11, and 12 a clock of the day four drops of fresh bloud, and he knew not from whence it came.Foxes Acts and Mon. 3d. vol. p. 879. Then he seeing the same was sore astonished, and could by no means learn from whence it should fall, and wiping out one of the drops with his finger, he called his wife, and said. In the vertue of God wife what meaneth this? will the Lord have four sacrifices? I see well enough the Lord will have bloud: his will be done, and give me grace to abide the triall. Afterward he daily looked to be apprehended of the Papists, and it came to passe accordingly.

Alice Driver.

D. Gascoin and she conferring, she asked him whether it was Christs p. 63body that the Disciples did eat over night.Foxes Acts and Mon. 3d. vol. p. 887. He answered, yea. What body was it then (said she) that was crucified the next day, he replying, Christs body, How could that be (said she) when his Disciples had eaten him over night? Except he had two bodies, as by your argument he had.Luke 22. 19.Luke 22:19 One they did eat over night, and another was crucified the next day. Such a Doctour, such doctrine: She put all her examiners to shame, that one looked on another, and had not a word to speak, whence she brake out into these words, Have you not more to say? God be honoured, you are not able to resist the Sperit of God in me a poor woman. I was an honest poor mans daughter, never brought up in the Vniversity, as you have been, but I have driven the plough before my Father many a time, I thank God, yet notwithstanding in the defence of Gods truth, Fox ubi supra.and in the defence of my Master Christ, by his grace I will set my foot against the foot of any of you all, in the maintenance and defence of the same; and if I had a thousand p. 64lives they should goe for paiment thereof.

Prests Wife.

In her trouble she would take no money, Foxes Acts and Mon. vol. 3. p. 891.for she said, I am going to a city where money beareth no mastery whiles I am here God hath promised to feed me.

Elizabeth Young.

She being committed to close prison, the Keeper was charged by Doctor Martin in her hearing, to give her one day bread, and another day water, to which she made this answer: If ye take away my meat, I trust that God will take away my hunger.