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J  JO:  I  QnsumbtimusJlnnos  tanauam  /crmon 
 
 ofum- 
 
DIVINE, 
 
 AndMoKAL 
 
 in  Metrical 
 
 NUMBERS 
 
 Upon  Various 
 
 SUBJECTS. 
 
 y- 
 
 By  Doftor  R.  AjUt,  one  of  the  Mafters  of  the  High 
 Court  of  Chancery. 
 
 Beati  qui  cy^odiunt  judicium^  &fachmt  j^ptidmomni 
 tempore,  Pfal.  3. 
 
 LONDON^ 
 Printed  for  Akl  Roper ^  at   the  Sujni  againft  St. 
 
 Dtmfians  Church  in  Fleetflreet.    1654, 
 
 IX. 
 
.'^<I4 
 
 /I 
 
CI 
 
 To  the  Right  Honou  rable 
 
 HENRY 
 
 LORD  MARQUESSE 
 
 OF 
 
 Dorchefter: 
 
 And  his  Incomparable 
 
 LADY. 
 
 O  whom  (hould  I  thefe  fancies  dedicate^ 
 When  I  made  truce  with  thoughts  of 
 
 (vanity. 
 But  to  your  Noble  felfe,  and  Princely 
 
 (Mate^ 
 
 Whofe  foules  arefoefpouz'd  toPiety^ 
 Now,  in  fuch  verdant  yeers,  when  moft  apply 
 Themfelves  to  gaudy  garbs,  and  worlds  delight, 
 Lo;^  your  brave  mindes  do  foare  a  pitch  more  high. 
 To  feek  your  Maker  and  Celeftial  lights 
 And  few  there  are  who  make  that  way  a  loftier  flight. 
 
 A  %  i/y 
 
the  Epijlk  Dedicatory. 
 ■^fy  Lord, 
 
 •„    A  Noble  Counfellour  informer dayes  '^ 
 
 ^''■■'whZSr'  7  P  ^'«^'  ^'^^'^  ^"'J  Name, 
 Hi«  P.7  .  !,  r '  •''/  "^'^^"5  cJ^'-ir  criftal  raves 
 H  s Pnnce  did  guide(tohis  eternal praife.)  ^ 
 
 SA?h  ^'"§^''']fg'ad  tohearwhathe  propounded 
 vvMch  aJl  the  Chnflian  world  might  have  con- 
 
 NoMufickfweeterchengoodcounfeleve/fltd: 
 
 JJ/V','  •''"f^hf  •■^"r^/'/^  to  this  land. 
 Who  by  his  Pnidencedid  his  Lord  advife 
 To  pafle  that  Charter  under  feal  and  hand. 
 Which  props  the  Pneft  and  peoples  liberties, 
 (The  peoples  l^arts  are  Kings  beft  treafuries  ) 
 Themarks  and  bounds  to  terminate  e«h  Se<Sion 
 '  lT^f'^  ^^--o^chment  which  that  Gr.nt  denS"' 
 Fonvherel  pay  my  tnbuteandfubjedion, 
 I  challenge  may  my  life  sand  livelihoods  protection. 
 
 I  rpare,Illuftrious  Lord.the  application-, 
 Do  but  the  forename  change,the  ftorie  s  thine, 
 Tn)e.  '/''^^^''"S'/^^ftgl^'-y  of  this  Nation  ' 
 Infe  .ch  of  knowledge  Humane  and  Divine, 
 Be  pleaf'd  as  ^./,vvhen  he  begins  to  iliine, 
 AUfoggsandmifts  from  hills  and  valleys  chafeth 
 To  countenance  thefe  gentle  Songs  of  mine,  ' 
 
 Sweet 
 
TheEpijile  Dedicatory. 
 SwQCt  Jfraels  Singer  fate  among  the  Gr^^^j^ 
 The  wiieman  after  all  his  travels  Hyme^  paccth. 
 
 J  Vote* 
 
 With  outward  ftore  God  grant  you  inward  peace,     , 
 In  mutual  love  to  fpend  long  laftiiig  dayes  5 
 It  is  the  courfe  both  Heaven  and  Earth  to  pleafe. 
 Who  will  you  bleffe  in  all  your  works  and  wayes, 
 ('Good  wives  their  Husbands  Houfe  and  Honor  raifc,) 
 Provide  true  ^omtham  to  be  their  friend. 
 
 And  now  your  Votary  moft  humbly  prayes. 
 That  God  may  children  like  the  Parents  fend,  (tend,' 
 And  to  the  utmoft  point  of  time  your  noble  line  ex- 
 
 So  prayeth  the  Humblefl:  of 
 your  Servants, 
 
 ROBERT  ATLET. 
 
 To 
 
[] 
 
 To  the  Noble  Author  of  thefe  Poems. 
 
 Books  are  as  Pouitraicfls  of  the  Inward  mm^ 
 They  are  true  Limmers  of  his  minde,  nor  can 
 The  P^;^d/ draw  the  Face  more  perfedlly. 
 Then  doth  the  Pen  the  Fancie^  as  we  fee 
 In  this  choice  Piece  of  yours,  which  doth  difplay 
 The  motions  of  your  foul,  and  many  aray 
 Oi Piety  and  Vertuey  which  do  (hine 
 Through  the  whole  book  in  every  page  and  line. 
 This  work  is  hke  your  Statue  cue  in  braffe. 
 Which  may  with  Time  it  felf  for  durance  clafli. 
 
 R.  Beaumont,    Bart, 
 
 to 
 
T 
 
 [] 
 
 rohis  mrthily  Honoured  Friend  Dodor  Aylet,  one 
 of  the  Mafters  of  the  High  Court  (?/ Chancery. 
 
 hough  the  Caftalian  Dames,  (andall  the  reft, 
 j^  Of  Women  kinde)  lovt youthful fpirits  beft , 
 Yet  I  have  known  them  oftentimes  infpire 
 Autumnalbmncs  with  heats  oiEnthean  fire ; 
 Nay,  'tis  obferv'd  in  thofe  whom  Vh(£hm  loves 
 The  more  the  fenfeimf  aires  y  the  foul  imfroves^ 
 He  darts  on  aged  trees  fo  bright  a  ftroak. 
 As  on  the  Stander  of  a  luftie  Oke. 
 
 SIR, 
 This  work  of  yours,  this  Mirrour  of  your  minde 
 Is  a  clear  proof  hereof,  wherein  I  finde 
 Your  hutumney  Spring,  and  Summer  ftill  the  lame, 
 Your  Evening y  Morn  and  Noon  have  the  like  flame 
 Of  Ap^/fe^^/^)?r^  in  fuch  degree 
 May  melt  the  Readers  into  Poefie. 
 Your  Farjcie  with  the  leaf  doth  neither/^//, 
 'i<loi'fade^  but  ftill  is  fappy,  ftreight  and  tall. 
 
 Here  are  no  whimfies,   or  ftrong  lines  that  fwell. 
 And  more  oigarlick  then  tht  lamp  do  fmell  ^ 
 Such  as  thofe  rambling  Rimers  ufe  to  vent. 
 Who  raife  their  Mufe  on  Stilts,  and  not  content 
 To  tread  on  earth  do  mount  fo  high  a  ftair. 
 That  their  conceits  prove  non-fenfe,  froth  and  air, 
 
 Here's  no  fuch  ftuffe^  but  fubftance  and  pure  fenfei 
 Sound  Jluks  and  Pregepts  may  be  culFd  out  hence. 
 
 Your 
 
Your  Quadrants  fymphonize  with  Vjhrachs  ftralas, 
 As  if  his  foul  were  tranfient  in  your  brains: 
 Your  fmooth  juft  cadencies,  and  gentle  verfe. 
 Suit  with  the  pious  matter  you  rehearfe, 
 Asall  will  judge  who  have  their  braias  well  knit. 
 And  do  not  love  extravagance  of  wit. 
 
 If  fuch  your  Readers  be,  you  need  not  flie 
 
 Fronoi  my  Sentence  to  the  Chancery. 
 
 ^am.  Hmelt, 
 
 To  the  moft  worthy  Authour. 
 
 W  Ell  fare  your  aftive  foul,  that  thus  you  can 
 Difpenfewithfo  muchbufineffe,  tofcan 
 Divine  and  moral  vertues,  andbefides 
 Vifit  th  -  whence  Aganippe  glides, 
 
 WhicL  -. .  ^    -  feldom  ufe^whofe  raveli'd  wit 
 On  knotty  cafes  of  the  Law  doth  fit. 
 
 I  do  admire  your  temper,  minde  and  vein, 
 The  conftancy  of  your  inventive  brain, 
 Variety  of  matter,  your  choice  theames. 
 And  method,ftill  avoiding  all  extreams. 
 Thus  have  you  made  a  Purchafe  (of  a  NamCy) 
 }<[ot  fubje^i  tohefequefiredi  your  Fame 
 And  Fancy  need  not f ear e^  oxruft^otmoth^ 
 Or plundrings  of  the  times,  J'le  take  my  Oath, 
 
 W.  Martin.  E.  Aur^ 
 
cb  cb  4*  si*  4^  4*  45  4>  4\5  '^  4>  4»  <l»  4>  '^  ^  4»  *l» 
 
 THESONG    OF    SoNGS 
 
 Which  was  Solomons, 
 
 The  Argument, 
 
 Mr  Mukythat  rvhilotnejwdydby  lufl  ofyouth^ 
 Did  (^  end  her  firength  in  idle  wmton  tojs^ 
 Now  views  her  vanity  with  mickle  ruth. 
 And  MS  awaked  dethfeekfor  [olid joys. 
 
 Such  as  the  Spoil fe/^r  aye  in  Heavn  enjoys  5 
 ihis  is  the  caufe  whyjhefc  much  dothUng, 
 His  grace  imflor'd  who  in  a  mighty  noife        A(3:,2^3 
 jpfeardin  cloven  tongvit$^to  teach  my  tongue 
 To  fing  thefe  [acred  myjleries^this  Solomons  Jong, 
 
 Chap.  I. 
 
 The  Churches  Love  to  Chrift/j^  doth  defend. 
 And  clear  her  felf  pom  all  indignity  : 
 She  cals  her  Spoule,  whojhews  what  way  to  t^nd 
 Thej  hoth  delight  infweet  commnnitj. 
 
 'i^'^'%^%  '^^^  ^^^^  ^f^^J  ^^^^^  do  thou  mccturch. 
 
 1  hy  Love  is  better  unto  me  then 
 
 JVine, 
 Thine  ointments  favonr  good  and 
 pieafant  is, 
 A  fweet  perfume  is  that  bleft  Name  6f  thine, 
 
 Therefore  xht  Maids  all  in  thy  Love  combine. 
 Oh  drarp  9)fe,  and  we  after  thee  will  run, 
 Jf  to  thy  treafure-s  thou  our  hearts  incline, 
 VVc  will  rejoyce,  and  in  that  joy  begun 
 We  will  roqoune  thy  Lov^s  with  all  thaE  en'ors  (hum 
 
 #  ScQr» 
 
2  1  oe  iy  erg  qj  *3  rngs^ 
 
 Scorn  me  not  (  SiouS  NjTrphs  )  though  I  feem 
 For  I  am/*r/>  and  ccme/y  as  a  Rofe.  (brown, 
 
 I  (till  Suns  fcorching  beams  on  me  did  frown) 
 Was  like  thofe  thas  in  Sdomoyis  tents  repofe* 
 
 My  Mothers  fons  my  beauty  did  expofe 
 To  Suns  hot  beams  and  raging  me  abjedcd. 
 So  did  they  me  a  bafer  way  difpofe 
 To  k^€pfir^./ige  Fiyieyards  not  to  be  refpeded, 
 VVhirft  w;W  (ay  me)  lay  unmanurM  and  quite  nef?- 
 leded. 
 
 Oh  tell  me  where,  thou  whom  my  foul  doth  love 
 Thou  feed'ft  thy  Sheep,  &  refts  them  at  noon  day; 
 For  why  alas  (hould  I  a  pragler  prove' 
 And  feed  my  Flocks  with  them  that  go  aftray  ? 
 Chifi*  Fair  eft  of  fjiaUsfmcQ  thou  know'ft  not  the  way 
 
 Tread  not  in  fteps  that  into  errors  mov^e  ; 
 But  leade  thou  forth  thy  Kids  to  leap  and  play 
 Upon  the  hills  the  Shepheards  tents  above, 
 To  FLr/nohs  Hefi  and  Charets  I  compare  mj  Lnr. 
 
 Thy  cor/ielj  cheeks  are  deckt  with  orient  fiones. 
 Thine  Ivrj  neckjw\x\\jpai7gles  all  is  graced, 
 Yet  will  we  make  thee  far  m.ore  precious  ones 
 Of  gold  and  iilver  jointly  enterlaced. 
 Church,  when  as  my  King  is  at  the  tabic  placed, 
 
 He  fends  forth  fmeis  moil:  odoriferous : 
 By  night  he's  like  a  bunch  of  Myrrhe  embraced 
 My  Love  is  like  a  Cjpyefjt'hei'ry'd  bulh, 
 VV^hith  in  the  gardens  of  £r,gedi  men  do  cruQi. 
 
 Chrift,         Fair  is  my  Love^  behold  my  Love  is  fair. 
 Thine  eyes  are  like  the  eyes  of  turtle  dove, 
 
 Chur^U       And  my  beloved  is  moft  debonair, 
 
 Pleafant  and  fruitfiill  fleurifhing  in  love : 
 Our  houfe  with  Cedars  all  is  feelM  above. 
 And  all  our  walks  are  planted  like  a  Cjprejfe  grove. 
 
 Chap 
 
Vi'fsiw  ivas  dQlomons. 
 
 Ch  A   p.    11. 
 
 Their  mMta^W  commendation  and  i heir  fQ3i{[  : 
 Hii  fainting  Spoufe  with  love  Chrift  dos  refrejh  j 
 He  cats  herforoh  to  Gardens  neatly  drefi. 
 The  Church  doth  Faith  ^WHope  in  him  profifco 
 
 I  Am  the  field-Rofe  and  the  Lilly  white.  Church 
 
 Ev*n  as  a  Lillj  which  the  thorns  do  throng,        Chrifi. 
 So  is  my  Love  amongft  the  daughters  dight : 
 And  as  an  Afi^le  tree  the  woods  among,  Chnrch 
 
 So'smy  ^f/t;i/'^mongftmen.  Oh  how  I  long 
 Under  his  plea  fin  g  fliadow  to  abide ! 
 His  fruit  delightful!  is  unto  my  tongue. 
 He  fets  me  at  the  banquet  by  his  fide. 
 And  m\\\fyfieet  love  as  with  a  banner  me  doth  guide. 
 
 Stay  me  with  flagons,comforc  me  with  fmcls 
 Of  fragrant  Apples,  I  am  fick  oUove, 
 His  right  arm  with  emhracements  me  compels  ; 
 Abcii-  my  n:ckht  doth  his  hft  hand  move. 
 
 O  Daughters  ol:  jerufalem  above 
 I  charge  you  by  the  Roes  and  chamfaln  hind, 
 y  oa  ftir  not  to  difpleafe  or  wake  my  love  : 
 I  hear  his  voice,  behold  he  comes  behind,  (wind. 
 And  leaps  and  skips  or 're  /;;//  and  mouriuins  [\kc  the 
 
 Like  pleafant  Roe,  and  like  a  youthfullWjrf, 
 Is  my  belov'd  :  he  ftands  behmdc  the  wall,. 
 And  from  the  windo^X^  beams  of  love  doth  dart  s 
 See  through  the  lattice  he  to  me  doth  call. 
 
 Oh  come  my  love  ( the  faireR  of  them  all)  , 
 The  winters' s  paft,  the  Spmn^er  is  at  hand,  Cbr\^, 
 
 The  "Birds  do  chip^  the  rain  doth  ceafe  to  fall,    , 
 The  earth  embeilifhc  all  with  flowers  doth  ftanuj 
 And  eke  the  mrtks  voics  i^  founded  in  our  land  ; 
 
 B  s  The 
 
'Xh^  Fig-tree  pucteth  forth  hci  biofTomes  green, 
 The  tender  blooming  Vines  do  fweetly  ImelJ, 
 Arife  my  love,  the  faireft  to  be  feen. 
 My  IDove,  that  in  the  c/ifs  of  Rocks  doii  dwell: 
 
 Corae  from  the  fecrec  corners  of  thy  Ce//y 
 Thy  fweeteft  cotintenance  lo  me  unfold, 
 And  let  me  hear  thy  voice  that  founds  fo  well. 
 Thy  voice  is  pleafanter  then  can  be  told, 
 And  eke  \.\\y  co tint e nance  moft  comely  to  behold. 
 
 Take  Foxes,  little  Foxes,  which  the  Vine 
 Do  fpoil,  the  Vines  that  tender  Grapes  do  bear. 
 Church*       I  am  my  well-beloved*s  and  he  is  mine. 
 Alone  amonglt  the  Lillies  feed  my  dear, 
 Uutil  ihtjljadows  fly  and  daj  appear. 
 Turn  my  helov'd^  and  be  thou  like  the  Rce, 
 ■  And  Hart,  that  on  the  Mountains  here  and  there^ 
 
 Ijkcysfithfffl  Harts  that  in  Mount  Bether  go, 
 And  like  the  Hinds  and  Roes  that  there  make  goodly 
 
 (Glow. 
 
 Chap.  III. 
 
 The  Church  her  Spoufe  in  bed  doth  feak,  not  finde ; 
 She  doth  arife,  and  fee  kj  him  in  broad  waies ; 
 The  Watchmen  a^kj  ?   ^t  length  withjoj  ofminde, 
 Shefindes  him  out,  and  glories  in  hi-sfraife. 
 
 Church,       Ty^  filent  night  as  in  my  bedl  lay,  (love: 
 
 Dl  fought  to  finde  him  whom  my  foul  doth 
 I  fought  indeed,  but  could  not  finde  that  way  : 
 I  faid  then,  I  will  rife  now,  and  go  prove. 
 
 If  I  can  finde  him  whom  my  foul  doth  love. 
 About  the  Citj, greets,  and  bro4d  waies  round  : 
 But  all  in  vain  my  labour  loft  I  prove, 
 The  TVatchmen  that  do  walk  rhe  ilreets  me  found, 
 I  rskt.  Saw  you  not  him  whofe  love  tnyfcul  doth 
 Tyoftnd  f  it 
 
i¥hich  was  Solomonsl  '5 
 
 It  was  but  little  that  I  from  them  paft. 
 But  I  did  finde  him  whom  lb  long  I  fought ; 
 I  would  not  let  him  go  but  held  him  faft. 
 Until  him  to  my  C^hthers  houfe  I  wrought. 
 
 And  to  her  Chamber  chat  eonceiv'd  me  brought: 
 Oh  "Daughters  of  that  City,  T^rince  of  Peace,  Chrifi. 
 
 I  charge  you  drive  out  youf  fair  Flock^  fo  foft. 
 Your  Harts  and  Hindes,  that  they  ao  not  difeafe, 
 Nor  my  belovd  awake  until  her  felf  do  pleafe. 
 
 Behold,  ^ho's  Jhe  that  from  the  wildemejjc 
 (Like  cloudy  pillars  of  fweet  fmoke)  afcends 
 PerfumM  with  Incenfe,  Mjrrh,  and  Aloes, 
 And  all  the  Sfices  which  the  Merchant  lends  ? 
 
 See  Solomon  his  bed,  which  to  defend,  Chttrch^ 
 
 FuH/a-O'  valiant  men  by  night  at  hand, 
 Moi  valiant  men  th^tjfrael  can  knd^ 
 Each  with  hisfipord  girt  on  his  thi^h  doth  ft  and, 
 All  expert  men  as  ever  were  in  any  land. 
 
 King  Solomon  made^  Throne  ofLibane  wood, 
 Whofe  Pillars  filver  and  whoCt  feat  was  gold. 
 The  covey ing  purple, y?(?dr,  whereon  they  flood. 
 All  pav'd  with  choicefi  loves  andftories  old. 
 Which  Daughters  of  ferufalem  had  to\d^ 
 With  cunning  needles ;  Sions  Njmphs,  I  fay. 
 Come  forth,  and  your  King  Solomon  behold,  (day 
 Crowned  with  the  Crown,  which  for  his  marriage 
 His  Mother  made,a  day  of  ;oj,  ofjport^andplay. 
 
 <4M4MH^a«a0>«naB 
 
 1 
 
The  Song  of  Sorjgs^ 
 
 Chap.  IV. 
 
 Cbrift  here  the  Graces  of  his  Church  commends. j 
 H16  ravipjt  heart  with  love  to  her  dothjhcw  ; 
 J}2to  his  Garden  he  invites  hif  friends, 
 fvhere  in  abundance  all  delights  do  flow. 
 
 HOw  fair  art  thou  my  Love\  behold,how  fair  I 
 Within  thy  lock^,  thy  Doves  cjes  fhinc  moll: 
 Like  to  2iflockoi  Goats  is  thy  fine  Hair,  (clear  : 
 That  from  the  Mount  of  Gilead  appear  : 
 
 Thy  'Teeth  be  like  aflock^ofjheep,  that  are 
 Ev'*nriiorn, which  from  their  wafhing  up  do  come 
 And  ev'ry  one  amongft  t;hem  twins  do  bear, 
 Amongft  them  barren  (lo)  there  is  not  one. 
 Thy  lips  like  fcarlet  Ribipand  round  about  the  flione. 
 
 Thy  ffeech  is  comely,  and  thy  Temples  are 
 Within  thy  lockj  like  a  Pomegranate  fide  : 
 Thy  neckj^koi  Tow'r  that  David  up  did  rear, 
 On  which  a  thoufandfhields  do  hang  befide, 
 
 (All  fViieids  Ol  mighty  men  in  arms  well  tn'd:) 
 Thy  Brefis  are  like  two  tycinling  Roes  clofe  by. 
 Feeding  on  Lillies  neer  the  River  iidc  5 
 Until  the  day  appears  and  fhadows  fiy 
 In  Hils  ofMjrrh  and  Mounts  ofJticenfe  let  mc  lie. 
 
 Thou  art  all  fair  (?nj  Love)  in  thee^s  no  fpct ; 
 Then  come  with  me  (my  dear)  from  Lebanon  : 
 My  Spoufe,  from  Lebanon  why  cam'fi  thou  not  > 
 And  from  the  top  o'i  Amana  look  oa 
 
 The  top  o'iShcnir  and  the  Hill  Hermon, 
 From  Lions  Dens^  and  from  the  Leopards  Hill, 
 Thou  ravilht  hath  mine  heaat,  mj  lovely  One, 
 One  iook  from  theem^  joy  my  heart  doth  fill, 
 Tliy  neck^  in  golden  chains  cv'n  through  my  hearc 
 doth  thrill     •  Mv_ 
 
My  Sfoufe,  my  Sifter,  how  fair  is  my  Love  I  Chriji. 
 
 Oh  how  much  better  are  thy  hre^fts  then  wine  1 
 The  favour  of  thine  cint?nents  is  above 
 Ail  Sfice ;  and  from  thy  Lips  drops  hony  fine, 
 Honej  and  w/Vi^under  thy  tongue  combine. 
 And  all  thy  garments  fmelllike  Lebanon, 
 A  fenced  Garden  is  my  Spotife,  a  /^^^/^ ;, 
 A  Spring  fhur  up,  a  Well feard  with  tiftone. 
 Her  plants  are  Spiknards,Saj]yon,Ca?nphire,Cina?:4QH, 
 
 All  pleafant  fruir,  Spikenard,  and' Caht^-^^f.^, 
 There  trees  o^ Incenfe,  Jkfyrrh,and  Aloes  d^\*d\^ 
 With  all  xhtfpi'ce  moft  odoriferous. 
 My  Love's  a  Spring  ofdirdens  and  a^^f// 
 
 O^  Living  Wdters  that  from  Lebanon  fell. 
 Awake  thou  North-winde,  cortie  thOu  i'o;/?/;,  and  (^y^y^^i 
 Upon  my  6V^f;^,and  her  plants  compell    ("blow 
 In  plenty  i6  my  beif  bel'ovd  to  flow, 
 Wh-i'^  he  to  cat  his precio^^  fruits  doch  thither  go. 
 
 I  to  my  Ctrden  now  behold  am  come,  Chrifi. 
 
 My  deareft  Spoufe,  my  Sifter,  and  my  LovC:, 
 1  eat  mine  Honj  with  my  Honj-comb, 
 My  Myrrh,  and  i'p/V^,  I  up  together  gove  ; 
 I  drink  moli  pleafant  wins  as  fweet  as  love 
 Mingled  with  wilJij^  Oh  r^nll^a.nd  honey  dear  I 
 My  friends  of  all  my  ivine.  Fruit,  Spices,  prove  : 
 Oh,  eat  and  drink,  I  fay,  and  make  good  r hear. 
 Yea,  drink  abundantly,  6  >;i?j  ^Belovd,  wj  ''Dear. 
 
 ^    \  C  H  A  f^ 
 
The  Son^of  SongSi 
 
 Chap.  V. 
 
 Chrift  doth  hii  Church  out  of  herjlumhr  wak£, 
 Herjloth  dcth  turn  her  heart  to  mickje  "^"oe  : 
 Shefifjfers  pcrfccutionfor  his  fake  ; 
 jd^d  to  her  Maids  dejcrihes  fom  top  to  toe. 
 
 Church,       TJ.^  ^^S^^^  ^  fleptjbut  ah  mine  heart  did  Wfike, 
 X^VVhen  (lo)  I  heard  the  voice  of  Him  I  love  • 
 
 Chrifit        He  ktiockt,  and  called,  Open  to  me  my  Make, 
 My  love,  my  Vndefiledy  and  mj  Dove  : 
 
 My  head'is  moift  with  dew  from  Heaven  above  : 
 The  night  with  droppings  all  my  locks  doth  foil. 
 
 Church »      ^^^  ^^^^  ^^  ^^'  ^^^  ihould  I  on  it  prove  ? 
 
 My  feet  are  wafh'd,  how  (hould  I  them  defile  ? 
 Yet  feeing's  had  within  the  door,my  heart  did  fmile. 
 
 J  rofe  to  open  then  to  my  helovd. 
 And  (lo)  the  Myrrh  did  down  mine  hands  diftill, 
 Sweet  fwelling  Mjrrhe  which  when  his  hand  now 
 The  bars  the  handles  of  the  lock  did  fill ;   (mov'd 
 
 I  open'd  then  to  my  helov'd^l  will. 
 But  my  Beloved  h2id  himfelf  withdrawn, 
 My  love  was  gone,  my  heart  grew  faint  and  ill, 
 I  fought  him  but  alas  I  fought  in  vain  ; 
 I  cal'd  him,  but  no  anfwer  gave  he  me  again. 
 
 The  jv^-.tchmcn  that  about  the  City  went, 
 Me  found  and  fmote,  and  forely  wounded  me, 
 The  Keepers  of  the  wals  my  veil  off  rent. 
 O  D-aiighters  ofjemfalem  that  be, 
 I  charge  you  if  you  my  beloved  kc^ 
 \-       To  tell  him  how  that  lam  fick  of  love. 
 Vafig^.       xYhat^s  thy  belov'd  ?  faireft  of  Maids,  what's  he, 
 Jor  whom  fuch  queftibns  thou  to  us  doft  move  ? 
 Tell  us  what's  thy  belovd  other  belovds  above  ? 
 
 Kfidd;^ 
 
ypbtchivas  SolomoHf,  9 
 
 ilui^dy  and  white  is  my  beloved  one,  Chuteh^ 
 
 The  chiefeft  often  thoufand  :  O^finegdd 
 His  head  is ;  and  his  locks  are  ^/(%  grown, 
 BlachjiS  a  iJ^-z/*;? ;  His  ejes  (if  you  behold) 
 
 Are  like  Doves  eyeSjWhich  by  the  brooks  do  fold: 
 Their  feathers  wafht  in  milk,  and  fitted  neat ; 
 His  cheeks Jpicc-beds,  fweet  as  the  UlUrigold-^ 
 His  lifs  like  Lillies  moift,  with  A-fyrrhe  ail  wet ; 
 His  ha?ids  are  Wkegold  rwgs ymth  ftones  of  Berlll  kt. 
 
 His  belly  is  bright  Ivory,  in-laid 
 With  Saf  hires  blew ;  and  his  fair  7^^/,  whereon 
 He  Hands,  like  marble  pilars,  upright  ftaid 
 By  goldcf^fockets,  zv\A[{k.t  Lebanon 
 
 His/^ff  :  and  fair  as  Cedars  thereupon. 
 His  month  (behold)  molt  comely  is  and  fweet  - 
 He  is  the  loveliefi  One  that  can  be  (hown. 
 Thus  my  beloved  is  known :  if  you  him  meet, 
 O  Daughters  ofjernfalcm  him  fiiirly  greet. 
 
 Chap.    VI. 
 
 The  church  her  hope  doth  to  her  ^JMaidens  clear  : 
 Her  Spoufe  is  ravifljt  ^'ith  her  gloricm  fight ; 
 ^Before  the  Q^ens  and  all  doth  her  prefer. 
 And  likens  her  unto  two  Armies  bright » 
 
 FAirefl  of  Women,  whither  is  he  gone  ?     (thee?  ^aftih^ 
 Wiiere  did  he  turn,  that  we  may  feck  with  * 
 
 Into  his  Garden  my  BelovM  alone  Church ' 
 
 Defcended  is  to's  beds  of  fpicery ; 
 
 In  his  delightfull  Gardens  feedcth  he. 
 And  gathereth  Lillies  beautifull  and  young. 
 I  my  beloved's  a.m,  and  he  to  me 
 Beloved  only  is ;  for  him  I  long ; 
 Behold  I  fee  him  feed  the  Lillies  fair  among. 
 
 My 
 
10  TmSongof  Songs^ 
 
 CMJi.        My  Love  thou  arc  as  Tirza,  beautiflill ; 
 And  as  ^erufakm  comely  and  gay ; 
 Like  army  fair  with  banners,  terrible  • 
 Thine  ejes  have  overcome  me :  Tm'n  away ; 
 
 Thine  hair  is  hke  ^flockof  Goats  that  ftray 
 Upon  LA'lount  Gilead,  and  thy  teeth  are  grown 
 Like  to  iijlockj)fEwes  which  make  their  way 
 Up  fronvtheir  wafhing  place  :   by  every  one 
 Are  twins y^  lo,  amongft  the  barren  there  are  iH)ne. 
 
 Thy  comely  cheeks  within  thy  lockj  appear 
 Ruddy  d.ndwhite  liKe  a  Pomegranate  fide  : 
 J^ueens  fixtj,  fourfcore  Concubines  there  were. 
 And  Virgins  without  number,which  did  ride 
 About  my  Love,  my  mdefird^  my  Bride ; 
 Yet  her,  the  Mothers  only  happinefle. 
 The  choice  of  all  her  Mother  bare  befide, 
 Whenas  the  Daughters  raw,they  prailc  and  blefs ; 
 And  all  the  ^u^ens  and  Concubines  could  do  no  Ms, 
 
 Who  is't  that  looks  like  CMorn,  fair  as  the  Moen? 
 Cleer  as  the  Sun,  as  banners  terrible  ? 
 When  I  to  view  my  pruned  Gardens  come. 
 Fruits,  vallejs.  Vines,  all  budding  bctutifull ; 
 The  Pomegranate  that  beareth  fair  and  full 
 My  foul  unwares  me  on  the  Chariot  pight. 
 Of  people  unto  me  moft  dutiful! : 
 Return,  return,  let^s  fee  the  Shulamite  ;  (bright. 
 Return,  what  will  you  fee  ?  fhe's  Itk^  two  Armies 
 
 Chap, 
 
^hich  W^  Sohm^m.  I X 
 
 Chap.  VII. 
 
 The  Churches  come Ij  graces  are  defcrtd : 
 She  doth  prof effc  her  Faith,  Love,  and  Defire ; 
 ey^nd/leW's  how  to  the  marriage  of  the  Bride, 
 All  things  that  are  in  heavn  and  earth  conffire. 
 
 HOw  comely  are  lh\^feet  within  thy  (hoes !      Chvifl, 
 (0  Princes  Daughter )JHnSiHres0^th.y  thighs 
 Like  jewels  are,  which  cunning  hands  did  clofe  : 
 Thy  }iavell  like  a  goi^let  round  replies, 
 I  wane  no  llauor,  and  thy  hlij  lies 
 •  Like  to  a  heap  ofVi'heat  with  lillies  dight : 
 Thy  !;reafis  Roe-twins  :  like  tow'r  oilvorfs 
 Thy  neckj^  thine  ejes  like  pools  in  Hesbon  bright ; 
 Thy  nofe  like  Lehanons  tow'r  that  towards  Damafcm  light : 
 
 Thine  /j^.t^'j  like  Carmel-^  with  thy  p//r/j/^  /7^/r, 
 Ev'n  /C/;7^-j  within  "^tK  galleries  are  bound  : 
 How  plealanc  art  tiiou  1  tor  delights  how  fair  ! 
 Thy  Stature's  like  a  Palm-tree^xzs'^t  fro  groud: 
 Thy  hrefu  oi grapes  are  like  to  cluHcrs  round, 
 i  faid  Iwould  into  the  Palm-tree  dmbe^ 
 And  prune  the  boughs  which  there  amifsl  found : 
 Thy  breafis  arelike  the  chflers  of  the  Vine : 
 The  odour  of  thy  mfi  is  like  fweet  -^fops  in  '^ine.       *  ^PP^'^^- 
 
 Thy  palate  is  like  V^Hnes  of  fweeteft  frneil. 
 
 Which  down  the  throat  go  pieafantly  and  fweet, 
 
 Cauling  the  lips  that  drink  thereof  to  tell 
 
 Tales  in  their  fleep.  I  my  helov'd  do  greet,  ChurC^ 
 
 And  his  free  love  with  true  affetftion  meet. 
 Let's  to  the  fields^  and  lodge  in  countrey  cell. 
 And  early  in  the  Vineyards  dew  our  feet. 
 And  fee  if  that  the  Vin^s  do  profper  well,  (^fwelL 
 And  h^w  the  Grapes  dohud^.dindPomegranatsdo 
 
 There 
 
I  z  Tht  Song  of  Songs ^ 
 
 There  plenty  of  my  hrep  I  will  thee  give ; 
 Behold  the  Mandrake  Ivveetly  fmelling  ay  : 
 Look  at  our  gates  all  pleafant  fruits  do  live. 
 Both  new  and  old,  which  I  for  thee  up  lay. 
 
 For  thee  (O  my  bclovd)  againft  our  marriage  daj 
 
 Ch  a  p.    VIIL 
 
 Her  undefileA  love  the  Church  make  k??0Tvn, 
 And  doth  defcribe  the  force  o/jealoulie  : 
 The  Gentiles  call'd,  by  Sifters  Tvooing,jho'^^n  : 
 She  hafles  her  Chrift  to  come  in  A^ajeftj. 
 
 OH  that  thou  wert  ev^n  as  my  brother  dear,  - 
 That  fuckt  my  mothers  brefts:vj\\tn  I  without 
 Thee  found,  I  would  thee  ki^e ;  and  none  fhould 
 JDefpife  me  ;  then  I  would  thee  lead  about    (here 
 Ev'n  to  my  mothers  houfe  that  forth  me  brought; 
 I  would  thee  caufe  to  drink  o^Jpicedwine, 
 And  jujce  that  from  the  Pomegranate  runs  out : 
 Thy  left  arm  underneath  my  head  fhould  line ; 
 Thy  right  arm  with  embracements  fhould  thy  love 
 intwine. 
 
 Daughters  oiSion  \  I  give  charge  exprefle. 
 Stir  not  to  wake  my  love  until  he  pleafe. 
 Chrifi^        Who  is't  that  comes  up  from  the  ^'ildernejfe. 
 Leaning  on  her  beloved  at  her  eafe  ? 
 
 From  under  th"*  Apple-tree  I  thee  did  raife. 
 Whereas  thy  mother  did  thee  firft  conceave^ 
 Whereas  thy  mother  firft  began  thy  daies. 
 Chffrfh,      Oh  let  thine  heart  me  as  a  Seal  receive 
 
 And  as  a  Sigm  on  thine  arm  do  thou  me  cleave. 
 
 For 
 
Vfkkhvfi as  Solomons^  \l 
 
 For  Love  is  ftrong  as  death,  and  jealoufig 
 Cruell  as  grave ;  her  coals  be  brands  of  fire, 
 Wbofe raging  fiamesconfume  moft  violently; 
 No  water  can  afT^vage  her  direful!  ire. 
 
 Nor  zny  fiords  can  drown  her  hot  defire ; 
 No,  though  a  man  all  that  he  hath  would  fell. 
 And  let  himfelf  for  wages  out  to  hire, 
 Yet  houfeand  fubftance  all  (lie  would  refell, 
 Yea  ev'n  contcmn:No  worldly  thing  can  love  copcll- 
 
 VVe  have  a  Httfe  Sifter  and  no  moe, 
 VVhofe  hefts  as  yet  lie  in  a  narrow  room  : 
 Tell  us.  What  (hall  we  for  our  Sifter  do, 
 Whenas  the  time  of  Wo?/;?^  her  h  come  ? 
 
 Whenas  the  time  of  wtdding  her  is  come,  Chrift, 
 
 Afilver  Palace^  with  a  door  moft  found 
 O'^ Cedar  boards  we'l  make  for  her  alone. 
 I  am  a  ^Vall-^  my  brcfts  are  towers  round  :  Churck 
 
 Saam  I  in  his  eyes  as  one  that  favour  found. 
 
 A  fruitfull  Vinejard  had  King  Solomon ;  ^,  ,n 
 
 In  a  moft  fertile  place  this  V'lnejard  lay  :  '''•^ ' 
 
 To  Drejfers  he  ft  farm'd,  that  every  one 
 Vovftmts  thereof  received,  fliould  yearly  pay 
 
 A  thoufandfther  peeces  at  their  day  : 
 My  Fi^e  betore  me  I  do  dreife  alone. 
 If  they  to  thee  a  thoMfand  muft  defray, 
 \thoHfandftlver  peeces,  Solomon,  (one. 
 
 They  for  their /?^/«j  muft  have  ti;vQ  hundred  ^-^^x-^ 
 
 O  thou  chat  in  the  Gardens  fweet  doft  dwell. 
 My  Name  to  thy  Companions  forth  found  ; 
 Oh  caufc  me  hear  thy  voice y  that  founds  fo  well. 
 And  make  it  from  the  Hils  and  Rock^  rebound. 
 
 Make  hafte  then  (my  beloved)  to  confound  Church. 
 
 Thine  enemies :  Be  like  unto  the  Koe 
 And  youthfull  Hart ^ih^z  on  the  mountains  bound, 
 The  mountains  whereon  Myrrhe  and  .S'/'/Vf/grow, 
 Make  hafte,  O  my  belov'd^  thy  glory  heje  to  fnow. 
 FINIS. 
 
14 
 
 WHen  Daf^l^l  his  AnibaHp.dors  did  fend. 
 Wife  Ab hj^t I  wnio  his  wife  to  take. 
 The  Lady  lowly  to  the  ground  did  bend, 
 Ofifring  to  vva(h  their  feet  for  her  Lords  fake  : 
 Learn  here  what  high  account  we  ought  to  make 
 Of  Meflengcrs  that  us  glad  tidings  bring. 
 Which  traveU  great  and  labour  undertake, 
 For  to  efpoufe  us  to  our  Lord  and  King: 
 To  be  alliM  unto  a  Prince  is  no  fmaii  thing. 
 
 They  that  to  defert  hearts  fend  forth  their  voice. 
 And  make  his  faths  ftraight,and  his  waies  prepare, 
 Shall  as  the  Bridegrooms  friends  with  him  rejoyce, 
 And  be  iirvited  to  his  heavenly  chear. 
 Oh  how  my  foul  is  ravifhed  to  hear 
 Her  felf  invited  as  a  "dcelcome  gueft. 
 By  come  my  Spoufe,  my  Love,  my  Dove,  my  Dear^ 
 Behold  our  marriage  bed  is  richly  dreft. 
 And  all  things  are  prepared  ready  for  the  feaB. 
 
 SeleBedVeffell^  blcfTed  Paul,  who  rapt 
 Above  the  trifle  heavn  fuch  things  didft  eye. 
 As  here  the  fouls  of  men  in  darkneffe  wrapt. 
 Cannot  conceive.  What  didft  thou  there  efpie  ? 
 The  Brideg7^ocmc[o2iili'd,m  love  and  majeity. 
 Halting  unto  his  marriage  confammatim. 
 Whole  lovelieft  Bride  the  Wife  man  doth  defcry. 
 With  all  the  marriage  folcmn  preparation,' 
 The  Gentiles  Hght,  and  glory  of  the  'je'^'ifh  Nation, 
 
 Then  let  vvo  yokes  of  Oxen,  Farm,  or  jvife. 
 Hinder  thy  coming  to  this  marriage  feaft  ; 
 Where  \^^ater  thou  fhalc  taite,  and  Bread  of  Life  j 
 The  K:77g  will  bid  thee  welcome  as  hisg^efl. 
 And  thee  invite  to  Gardens  ncatlier  drcft. 
 Then  that  of  Eden  planted  by  Gods  hand ; 
 There  is  true  happinefle  and  endleffe  reft. 
 There  glorious  Angels  do  by  millions  itaii-d, 
 Ai!  ready  at  the  Bridegrooms  and  the  Brides  comandt 
 
15 
 
 -^^^^1^^. 
 
 .^^^ 
 
 THE  BRIDES 
 
 ORNAMENTS. 
 
 The  Firii  Book. 
 THE  CONTENTS. 
 
 The  Porter  of  Zoz'^jG ate,  Hf^mlitj  : 
 Her  Treafurer  Krui'^kdge ;  Fortimde  Generall  j 
 Mercy  her  Chancellor ;  Truth  Secretary  : 
 Jusllce  chief  Judge ;  jPr//^^;?^^  diredeth  all. 
 
 Temperance  Comptroller;  Repentance  Marichal; 
 Bounty  the  a  Imoner  •  FahhyBofe^  Patrons  are ; 
 Patience,  Obedience,  Meeknejje^  Maids'!  call, 
 Attending  Love :   fey  privy  Seal  doth  bear  3 
 Cods  Word  Sword-bearer  is : ;  Zeal.VraUr^  Chaplains 
 there.  '• 
 
 THE  PROEME. 
 
 llofe  Jkbiime  j^vits  thM  in  high  Court 
 
 of  Fame 
 ^Do  fee l^do  rankt hemf elves  by  Poefie, 
 Ererni^ing  the  glory  of  their  name 
 By  praife  of  Honour  and  of  Chivalry^ 
 To  fome  great  Princes  Court  their  youth  ajflys 
 Knio-  })ts  honourable  anions  to  behold^ 
 Chafle  Ladies  loves,  and  Nobles  court efte. 
 '     Offftch  have  Homer,  Virgil,  Spencer  told,  (enrold, 
 ^And  have  thereby  their  names  in  Fames  fair  Court, 
 7  'But 
 
16  The  Proem.' 
 
 2  Bptt  had  they  l»aitedon  the  gloriom  Coflrt 
 C/Heaveniy  Love  hj  fome  ca/l*dClarkY^ 
 And  fee  n  the  order  there,  and  gr  actons  Port 
 Ofthtsgyeat  Sj^en  and  her  fair  ComfAnj, 
 
 Her  gentle  government  and  Majeflj, 
 This  fire  their  high  Heroick^Mtife  mighp  raife, 
 As  far  above  their  modern  fitch  to  fly. 
 As  C  an  die- Ugh  t'  s  fur  mount  ed  hj  Suns  rays. 
 Or  as  the  Creatures  boafting  k  by  Makers  fraife. 
 
 3  •  Nor  had  their  flat  ely  M^ufe  been  rAis'd  more  high. 
 
 By  this  employment  in  Loves  meditation, 
 
 Then  their  own  fouls,  which  up  to  heaven  would  fly 
 
 By  this  delightfull  heav'nly  Contemplation, 
 
 where  they  might  view  th^et email  Habitation, 
 Prepared  for  thefaithfull  Friends  of  Love. 
 That  by  her  Laws  fame  life  and  eonverfation. 
 As  members  of  one  glorious  Head  aboije, 
 IfVhich  here  upon  the  Earth  by  it  live,  be,  and  move. 
 
 4  Long  time  I  fought  Loves  QomimoFi  carefully  y 
 And  on  her  noble  Anions  fet  my  minde. 
 
 That  in  herpraife  my  Mufe  might  foar  on  high, 
 J  fought  in  vain  but  could  no  entrance  finde, 
 
 TJntil  a  courteous  Lady  then  affignd 
 To  keep  the  Court  Gate,  hight  Humility. 
 Well  knowing  Vehat  J  fought,  hwly  declin  d, 
 Affuring  me  I  never  could  defcry 
 Loves  honofirable  Court  but  by  Humility. 
 
 5  She  was  a  lovely  Lady  cloth' d  in  gray 
 
 of  ruflet  wool  which  her  own  hands  did  if>i;u 
 Nor  would  expend  her  ftate  in  garments  gay. 
 Her  care  was  to  be  glorious  within  ;• 
 
 Tet  had  this  Lady  gooMy  comings  in, 
 which  for  Lo\esfake  fie  dealt  among ji  the  poor, 
 .    To  fill  their  bellies  Jhe  look^^d  lean  and  thin, 
 Wouldftcop  tQ  heal  the  meanefi  Lazars/^rf , 
 7ct  yphen  fie  had  done  all,  griev'dfic  could  do  no  more. 
 
 6    She 
 
The  Proeme.  17 
 
 6  Shefoon  in  me  ejpies  a  dangerctpu  fore , 
 cMofi  dangerous y  hecaufe  it  ^as  leaftfeen, 
 Butinwardlji  didfefter  more  and  more  -^ 
 JtTfvas  Ambition,  '^hich  evnfrom  my  Spleen 
 
 Unto  mine  heart  hadfent  her  foifonsm  teeni, 
 To  cure  vphich  fore ,  Jhe  medicine  fir  at ght  af flies. 
 Before  I  came  in  frefence  of  her  jQueen. 
 who  gains,faithjhe,  grace  in  my  Sovereigns  eyes^ 
 By  meeknefTe,  not  ambition, /rf)^,  as  I,  to  rife: 
 
 7  Many  good  medicines  did  this  Maid  devife, ' 
 whereby  foe  might  recur  e  my  dangerous  fore. 
 As  good  examples,  words  eke  of  the  wife. 
 But  none  §fthefe  didyeeld  me  profit  more. 
 
 Then  mine  own  wretchednefTe  ;  ^hichjhe  before 
 Me  laid',  that  I  might  humbled  .^^  thereby. 
 And  though  my  ^^(hfirfljpurndagainfi  this  lore^ 
 Yet  Jhefo  gently  did  this  falve  apfly. 
 That  my  frond  heart  it  madefioof  to  Humility, 
 
 8  Thus  humbled,  I^as  to  Repentance  brought, 
 who  "^04  their  Marfhall,  Wondrous  grave  and f age ^ 
 Ah  Iflje*,  atfirfi,  me  mickleforrow  wrought, 
 Andjhe-w^d  how  I  unworthy  ^as  to  wage. 
 
 Or  be  admitted  to  Loves  e qui f  age. 
 She  then  my  Conicicncc  fore hwith  did  demand. 
 To  bring  my  Sinnes  and  Follies  en  the  Stage ; 
 Whofiraightwaies  did  obey  her  great  command^ 
 And  lo,  my  Rns  affeard  in  number  liki  the  Sand. 
 
 9  Sinnes  done  in  fecret,  and  long  fince  forgot. 
 She  there  exhibited  f  lain  to  befeen, 
 Andftraight  me  to  the  Bar  oijufticegot, 
 Accupng  of  high  treafon  to  her  Queen  : 
 
 Juftice  T^4f  chief  Judge,  in  the  Law  wellfeen^ 
 Tet  limited  by  bounds  of  her  Ccmmijjion ; 
 Law  "Was  her  rule,  not  what  fhe  did  eftceniy  * 
 
 To  extend  Mercy,  Jhe  had  no  ftrmijjlon: 
 Th^J  ^hat  hev^fm'd  mujf  be  condemned  ^Ithnfit  rsmiJjiQn. 
 
 '  C       ■  ?o  But 
 
ig  Tnc  Proenic. 
 
 JO  But  Faith  and  Hope,  two  Patrons  ;:csr  ^/  hand 
 To  nil  diftrej[edfoHls  that  era  vc  their  aid. 
 Advised  niQ  mt  on  mine  own  works  to  ft  and. 
 But  on  his  merits  that  h^dfulty  paid 
 
 The  ranfomeof  my  fins ;   and  further  [aid. 
 From  Juftice  /  to  Merey  rrtight  appeal. 
 Thi^  done,  the  Court  moft  ^^illinglj  convaid 
 Me  to  ths  Throne  of  Mercy,   \'^htch  JhoyJd  heal^ 
 
 'And  all  by  Juftice  done  againft  me,  V^^of^ld  nftal, 
 
 1 1  Mercy  a  T'rincefs  roas  cf  high  degree. 
 And  -near  unto  the  Queen  of  Love  iZllide ; 
 tJMoft  pleafant  was  her  countenance  to  fee  : 
 Knowledge  the  Treafurer/^f  hj  her  fide ; 
 
 But  Prudence  moft  of  all  her  Grace  did  guide. 
 The  Secretary  Truth  her  Ads  did  ^rite. 
 She  Mercy jff  \^Hth  Juftice  did  divide. 
 To  all  thrfe  Suitors  that  did  crave  their  right ; 
 'And  ^erebj  Faith  andHoj^e  taught  how  toflcade  aright, 
 
 12  I  had  good  audience  at  my  firft  appearing, 
 'But  ^'hen  Faith,  Hope,  began  mjfute  to  move. 
 Repentance  craved  another  day  of  hearing. 
 And  fie  W'ould  all  my  fins  before  them  prove  ; 
 
 I'anfwerd  that  thid  let  I  W'ould  rer^ove. 
 Tor  I  confejfed  all  ag^rinft  me  laid, 
 Andftraight  by  Faith  ar.d  Hope  did  plainly  prove,, 
 My  Saviours  merits  all  my  debts  hath  paid  ; 
 Then  all  the  Court  ^^«  cry,  I  need  not  be  afraid, 
 
 13  Tethleiccy  with  her  couhfell  would  advife. 
 Before  that  fie  tojey.tence  did  proceed, 
 
 AndfrU  with  Knowledge,  Prudence,  Truth  devifcs 
 Thefam^^hich  was  long  time  before  decreed : 
 
 And  though  damnation  be  thy  fins  juft  meed, 
 Yet  feeing  thou  fo  rightly  doil:  apply 
 Chrifls  merits,  thc«^  trorn  guilt  of  them  art  freed  ; 
 Wherefore  by  Faith,  Flop-,  and  Humility, 
 Here  ill  Loves  Court  to  ftay  thou  haft  free  liberty. 
 
 Hi 
 
The  Proeme.  % 
 
 14  'IthMahfolvd,hj\AtrQ\tzgraciom  domt 
 Wa4  brought  to  Meekneffe  ^«^  Obedience, 
 That  they  might  me  inslrtici  hr^rp  I  (hould  come 
 Before  this  ^lueen  V^ith  all  due  reverence  ; 
 
 And  by  the  Vpay  I  met  -with  Patience ; 
 
 Ihefe  three  fweet  Ladles  many  frecefts  give ^ 
 
 with  charge  them  to  cbferve  with  diligence. 
 
 And  all  my  Wrongs  vafl  and  to  come  forgive. 
 
 If  in  this  Court  of  Love  Vfith  honour  ivpould  live, 
 
 1 5  Then  Fortitude  the  ^lueens  great  General, 
 Taught  me  ^gainfi  all  ajjiiciions  toflandfafi. 
 For  he  that  loveth  ^ell  endureth  all ; 
 AndTtmy^tx^ViZt  enfjyned  me  to  f aft, 
 
 And  all  immoderate  lufts  from  me  tt  cafi  s 
 This  Temperance,  Comptroller  of  the  Hall, 
 of  fender  diet  ic  azd  body  chafe ; 
 Bounty  the  Alm'ner  next  to  me  did  call. 
 To  do  good,  and  distribute  to  poor  Saiuts  ^bove  aM. 
 
 1 6  Then  Lay  Lcetice,  that  fl aid  all  this  "^hile. 
 Longing  and\>Qifying  me  this  good  fuccefs. 
 On  me  began  moft  gracioufly  tofmile. 
 
 And  comfort  after  my  great  heavinefs  : 
 
 She  u  of  high  im\k  and  great  noblenefTe, 
 And  keeps  the  privy  Signet  of  her  Queen, 
 which  on  the  hearts  of  2^  Jhe  doth  impre/s, 
 ^Abfolv'dby  'hiticyfi' om  Laws  direfullteen  : 
 She  ts  caVd  inward  Joy,  -more  to  be  felt  then  feen. 
 
 1 7  There  met  I  Zeal  "Without  vain  fuperftidon, 
 who  never  ^'ithut  Knowledge  dursl  come  thtre), 
 So  hot  and  fiery  was  her  disfofition. 
 
 As  jhepeeces  could  ft  One  Tables  tear ; 
 She  in  grave  comely  hahit  did  appear. 
 As  of  the  Tribe  of  Adit  on  p?t  s>;tre  born ; 
 Cjods  Name  dijhonouredjhe  coutld  not  bear, 
 Her  hair  >X'as  all  difchevelled  and  torn, 
 which  Jhe  had  rent  to  hear  Vcretches  her  QucCns  LOYCfcorn. 
 
 C2  iSSh 
 
20  ^^^^  Proem? 
 
 x8  She  Vb^  mofl  earneft  undfathetlcall. 
 
 And  like  Joy  did  enfiame  wine  inward  parts  .' 
 Then  Courtefie  a  Ladj  fair  and  tall, 
 JnfirHBed  me  in  her  mofi  fleafmg  Arts, 
 
 HoTvfirft  IJhoHldmj  iooksffiit  to  mine  heart. 
 And  next  according  to  mine  hc3,rt/hoHld[ook^ 
 ZJnfeignedlj  the  head  and  everj  fart. 
 To  love,  Vphgfor  love  our  fins  on  him  tookj; 
 
 This  ladies  loving  heart, you  might  reade  in  her  look^ 
 
 ip  Thefi  came  Gods  W or d^  of  all  the  reft,  the  G Hide, 
 From  ^hofe  Mouth  ^'ent  a  fhafp  two  edged  fword, 
 IVhich  did  from  me  all  lin  and  iuft  divide. 
 And  in  my  bleeding  '^^ounds  fvpeet  hony  fowrd  : 
 Lafi,  Prayer  needs  this  favour  ^ould  afford, 
 Myfuit  unto  Loves  Highnefs  to  frefent. 
 Then  falling  on  my  k»ees,  Jhe  did  record 
 My  words,  and  evn  myfecret  heart  intent, 
 
 'And  them,  by  Meditation,  to  Loves  frefencefent^ 
 
 20  Thm  ^M  I  to  the  glorious  frefence  brought 
 of  Heavenly  Love ;   ^hofe gracious  Majefty 
 Did  far  tranfcend  all  hounded  humane  thought, 
 Tet  in  her  hip  fate  fweet  Humility. 
 
 He  thM  Jhould  tell  the  godly  company 
 of  glorious  Graces,  Unkld  in  vcrtues  chain. 
 As  W'ellmay  count  the  Lamps  inftarry  skU, 
 Or  number  all  the  drops  of  th' Ocean  main. 
 
 And f Jim  uf  all  the  Sands  W'hich  en  thefhoar  remain* 
 
 I- 
 
21 
 
 M  E  D  I  T  A  T.     L 
 
 of  Heavenly  Love. 
 
 Hofe  learned  joints  that  fpend  their  youth- 
 
 full  prime 
 In   writing   Volumes  large  of  "Canton 
 
 Love, 
 Finde  in  the  end  they  lofe  mojR:  precious 
 time. 
 
 And  all  their  labour :  and  though  late  do  prove. 
 That  had  their  fouls  been  mounted  up  above. 
 Whence  they  were  fent  to  this  frail  houfe  of  clay. 
 They  there  had  found  the  objed  of  trpte  Love, 
 God,  true,  eternall,  which  ne're  fades  away. 
 But  when  Love  there  begins  ic  doth  endure  for  aye. 
 
 2  Whom  as  we  love  'bove  all  things  by  him  wrought, 
 So  at  his  glorious  Works  in  him  we  love. 
 
 And  ev^n  that  jvord  whereby  to  pafle  he  brought 
 This  all  in  whom  ev*n  all  live,  be,  and  move ; 
 
 The  fame  is  aAmhoHr,  Tini flier  of  Love, 
 The  ScA  from  which  all  ftreams  of  Love  do  flow,"' 
 Which  here  refrefh  the  tender  plants,  and  prove 
 Moft  Soveraign  medicine  to  the  Sa'ints  below. 
 Whereby  ingoodnefs,  love,  and  virtue ^ih^'  may  gr«w. 
 
 3  And  as  the  Brooki  their  tribute-ftreams  do  fend 
 Unto  the  boundleife  Ocean  whence  they  move ; 
 So  though  on  Saints  and  Poor  we  freely  fpend 
 What  we  receive,  yet  to  this  Sea  of  Love 
 
 We  muft  tend  alwaies,  as  thtfleel  doth  move 
 With  Load-Jione  touched  to  the  ArUique  Pols ; 
 
 ,   All  other  motions  violent  do  prove. 
 This  is  the  objed  of  true  Love :  this  fole 
 
 Th«  Certtey  is  oSjLave^  on  which  all  Love  doth  rouf. 
 
2^2  of  I^eavenlj  Love, 
 
 4  Authonr  and  Finipjer,  Thou  ^ror^  of  power. 
 Center  and  Load-flvne^  Oi^jeB,  Sea  of  love. 
 
 Sweet  drops  of  Grace  upon  mine  heart  down  fliowr, 
 •  Attrad  my  fteely  thoughts  tow'rds  heav^'n  to  move ; 
 Teach  me  the  complement  of  man,  true  love, 
 
 0  help  me  to  exprefTe  what  1  conceive 
 Of  thine  affeftion  which  ev'n  from  dove 
 Made  thee  defcend,  and  all  thy  Glory  leave. 
 
 And  to  the  curfed  Crojfe  for  love  of  man  to  cleave. 
 
 5  Of  that  dread  lo^e  by  which  the  Trinitj 
 Ineffably  doth  in  it  felf  delight, 
 OfTerfens  three  making  one  Vnitj, 
 
 1  dare  not  undertake  fo  high  to  write  : 
 
 My  LMufe  here  only  labours  to  indite, 
 Of  that  free  love  which  doth  frcm  thence  defcend, 
 That  Love  which  from  the  head  on  members  light. 
 And  thas  which  from  them  ought  again  afcend ; 
 Laftly,  that  Chriftian  love  we  each  on  other  fpend. 
 
 6  But  as  th'eteruall  Godheadis  but  one^ 
 Yet  is  by  Perfons  three  diftinguifhed. 
 The  Son  is  of  the  Father  all  alone, 
 
 The  Sfirh  from  Son  and  Fi^ther  doth  proceed ; 
 
 So  though  a  threefold  kinde  of  love  we  reade, 
 Yet  is  this  true  and  heav'nly  love  but  one. 
 For  with  that  love  from  Father  doth  proceed, 
 Chrifi  loveth  ihofe  he  choofeth  for  his  own. 
 And  this  is  xhat  true  love  amongft  the  members  known. 
 
 8  ThoHt\\ii(X\6i'^'mxhy  Fathers  hofome^un^ 
 Eternally  begotten,  micrea^e. 
 Let  me  begin  where  firft  thy  love  begun 
 To  be  unto  us  manifefl: ;  when  Bate 
 
 And  rridc  the  '^Dam  of  mifchief  and  debate. 
 Had  caulcd  rhofe  celeftiall  L^.mp  of  light. 
 The  Angels  that  kept  not  their  firft  eftate, 
 To  b^  dejedled  from  thy  Palate  bright, 
 
 Reierv'd  in  everlailing  chains  of  darl^ei}  night 
 
 TW 
 
of  Heavenly  Love],  ,  25 
 
 8  Then  firft  tliy  free  love  ^\<i  to  man  appear. 
 Whom  after  thine  uwn  Image  thou  didil:  frame. 
 And  bleffedli  him  to  multiply  and  rear 
 Much  fruit  on  Earth  ;  and  gav'ft  him  power  to  tame 
 
 Thy  handy-works,  to  which  he  gave  a  name. 
 Which  they  received  as  F^fa/s  of  their  Lord; 
 Adam  then  Lord  of  all  thy  works  became. 
 Each  herb,  fruit,  {<^^di^  thou  gav'ft  him  for  his  board. 
 
 Thus  Lord  of  all,  He's  only  fubjec^  to  thy  Word. 
 
 p  Hadft  thou  him  fet  in  Gardens  ready  planted 
 With  all  variety  of  rich  delight. 
 And  for  his  care  to  keep  them  had  but  granted. 
 He  might  take  pleafure  only  in  their  light. 
 And  food  from  one  to  feed  his  appetite. 
 Nature  had  been  content  with  competence  : 
 Thou  gav'il  him  leave  of  all  the  trees  to  bite. 
 Thou  only  one  tree  from  hiS  lips  didift  fence. 
 
 To  fhew  thj  Lordjhip  and  prove  \\i%  obedience, 
 
 1 0  Bat  lo,  that  fride  which  mifchief  did  conceive 
 Firft  in  the  Court  ofHeavn^  briags  forth  below ; 
 And  in  difdain  fuch  excellent  Sprits  muft  leave,- 
 ThtW  gloriom  manfion  unto  one  they  know 
 
 Was  fram'd  o^flimj  earth  :  Behold  1  they  grow 
 To  tempt  the  Weaker  by  a  falfe  pretence, 
 Yott  (hall  not  die,  faith  he,  for  God  doth  know 
 What  day  you  fhall  h^gods  from  thence, 
 Lo,  thus  was  all  mankinde  made  guilty  of  offence. 
 
 11  ^^;j^,  where  art  ?  what  art?  Hid,  Naked,  Vile^ 
 Now  thou  hail  eat  of  the  Forbidden  Tree, 
 
 Mj  wife  did  me,  the  Serpent  her  hgf^i/e. 
 Cannot  excufe  thee  nor  thy  Progeny ; 
 Curft  is  the  Serpent  for  his  fubtlety. 
 The  Ground  is  curft  and  all  that  on  it  goes. 
 Serpents  and  Womans  Seed  at  enmity. 
 The  Earth  from  whence  thou  cam'ft  thee  up  muft  clofe^ 
 Thy  Gardens  loft,  thy  Subje^is  now  become  Chy  Foes. 
 
 C4  0 
 
24  of  Heavenlj  Love. 
 
 12  O  miferable  Man  in  lo^e,  in  fain. 
 
 Look  but  from  wlience  and  whither  thou  doft  fall : 
 Who  now  hath  power  to  raife  thee  up  again  ? 
 Breach  of  o^/f  Law  thee  guilty  makes  o^all. 
 Hell's  thy  reward,  thou  miferable  thrall. 
 Driven  froin  ihc  frefence  fweet  of  God  above, 
 Which  thee  to  fuch  a  height  ofhliffe  did  call. 
 The  Serfents  fpeech,  thou  now  too  true,  doft  prove. 
 And  to  thy  coft  know'ft  Good  and  Evil,  Hate  and  Love> 
 
 1 3  God  is  moft  mercifull,  yet  True  and  Juft, 
 His  deareft  Love  fliin\i  in  thy  firft  Creation, 
 His  Law  is  broken,  now  he  punifh  maft. 
 Here  Love  again  beyond  ail  cxpeftation. 
 
 Will  draw  them  both  to  reconciliation  j 
 {yo-^Man  becomes  fufitce  to  fatisfie. 
 His  Death  Uiall  pay  the;?r/V^  of  our  damnation. 
 No  height  of  Verfe  this  prat  love  can  defcry. 
 This  Sfin  is  too  refplendant  for  my  Mufes  eje. 
 
 '24  hio{{  glorious  God^TViJe^Hafpj,  Vncreats, 
 Ahfoliite,  'TerfeB,  Pure,  Omnipotent, 
 Here  humbly  to  convcrfe  in  mean  eftate. 
 And  cis  a  Malefacior  to  be  rent, 
 
 To  fave  ev'n  thofe  that  fought  him  to  torment, 
 Captivity  thus  Captive  for  CO  leade, 
 And  give  fuch^^i/;>  to  Men,  and  Hell  prevent. 
 Thy  works  oipo'if^er.  Lord  I  can  no  Creature  reade, 
 
 Bu^  th:s  of  Love  and  Mercj  doth  them  all  exceed. 
 
 1 5  God  is  l(rues  very  Authour,  Life  and  Spring, 
 Yea,  God  himfelf  is  alfo  ililed  Love ; 
 From  him  all  ftreams  oi Love  areifluing, 
 As  from  the  Sea  all  other  Waters  move; 
 
 He  fir  ft  fils  all  with  love  in  Heav*n  abovq : 
 Which  water  prenteoufly  the  Vales  below. , 
 Sv  God  loves  firft  before  \ve  do  him  love, 
 Ld,  what  exceeding  great  love  he  doti]  (how  ^ 
 
 God  loves  his  Enemies  before  they  hiin  d^  ^nt^* 
 
 T^ThM 
 
of  Heavenly  Love.  25 
 
 i^  Into  one  hedy  we  by  kve  do  grow. 
 
 Into  one  huilding  wc  arc  all  combined. 
 
 Love  that  doth  from  the  Bead  to  Memhers  flow. 
 
 And  all  the flones  hath  in  this  bmldtng  jovnM ; 
 Where  every  member  s  office  is  aiiign^d ; 
 
 And  Qv'ryftoHe  anothcrs  weight  doth  bear  • 
 
 All  lively  fiones  the  choiceft  of  mankinde. 
 
 All  living  members  of  one  head,  which  here 
 By  love  in  one  clofe  cemented  and  joynted  arc. 
 
 17  My  lowly  Mufe  dares  not  prefume  to  pry 
 Into  Gods  holy  happy  Habitation, 
 Where  love  three  Perfons  joyns  in  Vnlty, 
 And  makes  one  Godhead  to  mans  admiration  5 
 
 I  leave  the  myftery  of  t\\' hcarnation^ 
 Where  love  doch  make  both  God  and  Man  in  one, 
 And  eke  the  powV  oi  Sprits  regeneration. 
 Where  love  makes  man  ev'n  Godsflejh  and  bone^ 
 Thus  love  all  things  in  Beavn  and  Earth  unites  in  one. 
 
 18  Such  as  Loves  ca.  fe  cv*n  fuch  arc  loves  ejfe^s, 
 Holy,  Tranjcendcnt,  Supernaturall, 
 
 Which  publique  good,  not  private  moft  refpeds. 
 The  weakeft  member  fervice  doth  to  all. 
 
 And  the  moft  Honourable  doth  not  call 
 The  meaner  bafe  as  he  did  him  defpife. 
 They  all  agree  in  one,  and  one  in  all. 
 Unto  one  glorious  Head  by  love  to  rife. 
 And  in  him  works  of  Love  and  Grace  to  cxcrcifCo 
 
 19  But  fuch  ill  judge  of  ^z/^  that  cannot  love. 
 Nor  in  their  hearts  feel  heat  of  lively  flame. 
 Love  is  the  gift  of  God  from  heaven  above. 
 Sent  down  mans  proud  rebellious  heart  to  taiUC,' 
 
 And  yeeld  obedience  to  his  holy  Name, 
 Though  fcornM  by  thofc  whofe  hearts  are  made  fo  blindff 
 With  this  Xfoorlds  God,  they  cannot  fee  the  fame. 
 This  mrld  they  love,  and  fet  on  lulls  their  minde. 
 And  never  feck  this  true  and  Heavenly  lovs  to  fiadc. 
 
 zokl 
 
26  ©/  Heavenlj  Lsve. 
 
 20  As  little  Childc  that  fucks  hie  Mothers  breft. 
 Is  in  all  duty  to  her  ever  bound, 
 tor  bearing  him  with  pain  and  lofle  of  refr, 
 with  many  troubles  fhe  in  nuifing  found  : 
 
 So  fhould  our  love  untc  oi:r  Lord  abound. 
 By  whofe  Crc^e  we  are  ne-rX-hom  from  above. 
 And  niirsM  withi-te^  that /^wf^**/?  from  his  rpound. 
 His  TleP>}  we  cat,  his  lloHd  we  drink,  and  prove 
 Tlcjh  of  bis  Ylefl}^  Bone  of  his  ^c«.-,  by  Faith  and  Love, 
 
 21  Vid\o\(i^h^Tt\s.2iSeaof  Mjflery, 
 Where  Lamhs  may  "^ade,  and  Elephants  m^.yfwim^ 
 And  both  be  drownM,  except  fwect  Love  ftand  by. 
 By  Fairh  we  only  wade  aboi;t  the  brim 
 
 Of  this  deep  Sca^  by  love  up  to  the  chin. 
 It  is  a  7njjlerj  which  to  unfold 
 No  fpeech  is  able,  ^tis  the  heart  withifz 
 To  which  this  myftery  is  plainly  told  : 
 This  fecret  Biil^es  ^ndi  Sicklings  do  through  love  behold. 
 
 22  L§ve's  like  to  Gil  that  in  Zareftas  Crufc, 
 By  fpending  on  the  Prophet,  did  cncreafe. 
 Like  Sun  wTiich  light  doth  into  all  infufe, 
 Yet  doth  thereby  his  lighi  no  whk  decrcafe, 
 
 Like  boundhffe  Waters  of  the  bounteous  Se^s, 
 Which  fail  not  though  on  all  the  Flonds  they  fpend ; 
 Like  Leaches  skill,  by  ufe  which  gains  encreafe, 
 'L\kQ  fervent  -prayer  which  the  Clouds  do  rend. 
 Yet  by  her  daily  ufe  in  ftrength  and  growth  doth  mend. 
 
 23  Like  pureft  living  flreams  in  Pipes,  which  flow 
 from  feme  fair  Conduit  built  upon  a  Hill, 
 Which  though  they  moiften  all  the  Vales  below. 
 And  many  Offices  with  Water  fill ; 
 
 Yet  to  as  high  pitch  remounten  ftill. 
 As  is  the  Fountain  from  whence  firft  they  fall, 
 Ev'n  fo  loves  fireams  which  from  the  headdi&i\l 
 Upon  the  lowefi  member  here  of  all, 
 Momt  up  it^m  whence  they  came,  v/ithfonrce perpefftaM, 
 
 -y.A.  Rut 
 
of  Hiavenlj  Love^  27 
 
 i4  Bat  why  feek  I  by  fiinile's  to  espreffe. 
 The  heav'nly  nature  of  this  glorious  ^ueen^ 
 Since  Men  and  <iAngels  greateft  noblenelfe. 
 But  ev'n  as  (liadows  to  the  flibftancebee  n 
 If  with  her  moft  celeftiali  fplendour  feen. 
 Let  duf;  and  ^.fhes  dare  then  be  f(>bold. 
 His  Maker  to  compare  with  Love^  great  ^f^en. 
 So  I  her  heavnlj  graces  may  unfold. 
 
 And  you  the  piainlier  may  htx  glory  great  behold. 
 
 2^  Go^^s  micre ate,  et email,  infinite. 
 
 Love  boundle^e,  no  beginning,  hath  not  end  : 
 And  as  Gods  Throne  above  in  Ueavn  is  pight^ 
 Yet's  Providence  on  meaneft  ^^orm  doth  tend 
 So  though  Loves  habitation  doth  tranfcend^ 
 
 '    She  dwels  with  meaneft  Creature  here  below. 
 And  on  them  her  moil  gracious  Beams  doth  fend ; 
 God  ev V.  the  fecrers  of  mans  heart  doth  know. 
 
 And  Love  the  fecret  things  o'tGod  to  man  doth  (how. 
 
 26  The  King  ofBeav'n  for  man,did  on  him  take 
 
 A  Servants  form,  ev'n  fo  this  heav'nlj  ^eer^ 
 
 Her  lelf  a  Servant  unto  man  doth  make. 
 
 The  yichcle  Law  God  for  us  fulifilled  here^ 
 
 And  Love  us  from  the  guilt  thereof  doth  clear  • 
 
 If  you  will  grant  (imilitudes  may  prove^^ 
 
 By  thoufands  I  can  make  it  plain  appear. 
 
 Love's  like  in  all  to  God  in  heav'n  above,. 
 Yea,  Love  is  God  himfelf:  for  God  is  called  Love. 
 
 2j  Asmih^ Frame ^n6iMicrocofmeQiM.2in^ 
 The  Souls  great  power  all  other  motions  fway^ 
 And  that  whole  Frame  which  of  the  Chaos  camC* 
 To  the  frime  mover  alwaies  doth  obey ; 
 
 So  do  all  fpirituall  heav'nly  Vertues  aye,^ 
 Depend  upon  this  gracious  ^^en  of  Love, 
 And  ev'n  as  Man  and  this  whole  "^orld  decay,^ 
 When  Sml  departs  and  Spheres  do  ceafc  to  movcj 
 
 f-X J?  f?  ?U  fcrPfia  die  not  qnick^d  hj  loye» 
 
 3J?TiV3mttl^ 
 
28  of  Heave nlj  Love, 
 
 28  Exam[4es  of  this  love  are  manifold. 
 In  holy  mee,  when  yet  the  Law  had  place. 
 As  Abram,  Mcfes,  Job,  and  Bavid  bold. 
 But  they  have  fhin*d  more  clear  now  under  grace^ 
 Amongft  th aie  that  have  feen  our  Saviours  face: 
 But  moft  fince  he  the  Comforter  hath  fent. 
 Stones,  F.i^ts,  Swords  J  Saws,  Crojfes  they  embrace. 
 As  if  they  did  their  Saviour  reprcfent. 
 
 Shewing  by  lofTe  of  their  dear  hlond  Loves  complement. 
 
 2p  It  hath  been  known  that  fometimes  for  a  Frie}td 
 A  man  wcmld  die;  fomefliortned  have  their  life 
 With  grief  for  loile  of  Children,  or  their  kinde  ; 
 Some  for  their  Minions  loiTe  have  diM  with  knife  : 
 "facob  would  ferve  ev^n  fevcn  years  for  a  Wife, 
 Our  Siiviour  for  his  foes  his  bioud  doth  fpend, 
 Us  Children  to  adopt,  iaies  down  his  life  5 
 To  fave  his  Spoufe  doth  on  the  Crofle  depend, 
 
 ServM  for  her  five  fcven  years :  His  Love  doth  never  end. 
 
 3  o  Behold  !  by  what  fweet  names  he  doth  invite 
 Us  to  embrace  his  nuituall  heav'nlj  Love, 
 He  cais  us  Friend,  Cioilde,  Sifter,  Spoufe,  Delight, 
 His  fervants  fends  us  courteoufly  to  move. 
 
 To  royali  Banqtiets  and  fweet  Beds  of  Love, 
 By  grace  adopting  us  to  be  Coheirs 
 Ev'n  with  himfeU,  of  glory  great  above. 
 No  coft  or  pain$,  not  his  own  bloudhc  fpares. 
 
 But  like  a  Father,  Htaband,  Friend,  for  us  he  cares. 
 
 3 1  Why  feck  I  out  ?  let  us  "Within  abound. 
 Towards  the  Saints  in  love  and  charity. 
 Which  doth  to  Gods  high  glorious  grace  redound, 
 When  by  relceving  them  in  poverty, 
 
 They  for  our  bounty  Gods  Name  glorifie  ? 
 He  that  unto  the  Sower  givcth  feed. 
 Bread  to  the  hungry,  he  will  multiply  .  ^ 
 
 Us  with  encreafe,  if  to  poor  Saints  in  need 
 
 We  give  with  chearfulnelTc  :  fach  gifts  God  likes  indeed. 
 
of  Heavenly  Love^  29 
 
 ii  Wbo  fparingly  doth  fow,  reaps  fparirigly  i 
 His  RighteoulhefTc  for  ever  fhall  remain 
 That  doth  dsfpcrfe  and  give  abundantly : 
 What  do  we  lave  if  we  the  world  fhould  gain. 
 
 And  lofe  our  Cr6TVf9  which  up  in  Heav'n  is  Iain  ? 
 VVho  having  this  worlds  good  yet  doth  behold 
 His  brother  want,  and  doth  his  hand  retain. 
 How  can  it  be  but  Lovs  in  him  is  cold  f 
 For  whereas  Lei/e  doth  dwell^  her  fruits  arc  rnanifold^ 
 
 3  3  Oh  1  that  I  could  defpife  ^'orlds  vainfromotion^ 
 
 And  follow  heavenly  things  with  all  my  might, 
 "  My  whole  life  confecrating  to  devotion. 
 
 Oh  that  I  might  live  ever  in  his  light. 
 Where  fulnefle  is  of  ;oj  and  pure  delight, 
 '     Oh  that  mine  heart  were  on  thy  Law  fo  fet  I 
 
 To  meditate  thereon  both  day  and  night. 
 
 Thy  Statutes  then  I  never  (hould  forget. 
 Nor  at  the  wickeds  vain  Sindfaife  freferments  fret. 
 
 J  4  Oh  that  ray  deareft  Hp'Aand^  Father,  Friend, 
 His  Heavnly  Love  into  mine  heart  would  ihowr  I 
 That  my  Lout  may  again  to  him  alcend. 
 And  that  I  may  with  all  my  might  and  power^ 
 
 Love  and  defend  his  members  from  each  ftower ; 
 His  Lavfihs  which  in  this  wandring  wildernefle 
 In  danger  of  the  Wolves  are  ev'ry  howr, 
 Vifit  the  widows  and  the  Father/eJJe, 
 
 And  walk  Hnjpotted  here  in  Truth  and  Hollncfc, 
 
 3  5  But  though  alas  this  heav'rJj  Love  I  feel 
 Abundant  grace  upon  mine  heart  to  fhowr. 
 Love  of  this  world  my  fouls  eyes  up  fo  feel. 
 To  love  the  things  above  I  have  no  power ; 
 
 And  though  I  feel  {w^etflajhes  every  houg 
 O^heav'nlj  love ;  I  cannot  love  again 
 The  Head  and  Members,  which  in  earthly  bower 
 ^Coft  dear  and  precious  in  his  fight  remain, 
 
 But  hardly  can  from  Envj,  Hatred^  Fride  refrain. 
 
30  Of  Heavenlj  Love. 
 
 3  6  1  do  confefle  my  debt  oUove  lo  great, 
 I  never  able  am  myfcore  to  pay. 
 For  if  I  fhouid  Gods  ki'^idnejfes  repeat,        : 
 And  all  his  favours  in  one  lum  convey, 
 I  might  begin  them  early  ere  the  day, 
 But  could  not  caft  the  number  up  by  night. 
 Accept  my  viil  and  readinejjefor  ptj. 
 Accept  my  grieved  heart  and  humhkjprite, 
 
 Which  made  the  fVidorps  poor  an  acceptable  mitt^ 
 
 3  7  Let  me  thy  love  fo  lively  apprehend. 
 That  I  may  ready  be  with  cheerfulnefTe 
 To  die  for  thee  who  thy  dear  blond  didft  fpend^ 
 To  vindicate  my  foul  from  wretchedneffe  ; 
 
 And  raife  me  to  fuch  height  of  happinejfe^ 
 That  I  may  gladly  wi(h  my  diflolution ; 
 And  caft  from  me  all  Vprctched  worldlwefs. 
 Prepared  with  a  holy  refolution. 
 
 To  ftand  undaunted  at  the  Vcorlds  great  devolution. 
 
 3  8  Frame  in  me  fuch  an  habit  of  thy  love. 
 
 As  I  for  love  may  feek  thee  to  obey. 
 
 More  then  for  fear  I  fhouid  thine  anger  move, 
 
 Whereby  thou  fhould'ft  my  fins  with  vengeance  pay  • 
 And  grant  that  all  the  good  I  do,  I  may 
 
 Perform  it  well,  with  good  and  due  refpcd 
 
 Unto  thy  gracious  love,  which  me  alway 
 
 In  every  good  and  perfed  thing  dired  : 
 And  not  for  pleafure,  gam,  vain-glorj,  worlds  refpeft. 
 
 39  Set  my  delight  on  hallowing  thj  Name, 
 And  longing  for  the  coming  of  our  King, 
 Thy  will  on  Earth  to  do,  ev'n  as  the  lame 
 Xhine  Angch  do  in  Heaven  %   fuch  nonrifhing 
 
 As  we  have  need  of  daily  to  us  bring. 
 Forgive  our  faults  as  we  by  love  forgive 
 Them  that  offend  as ;  From  the  blaadifiiing 
 Of  Sin  and  Satan  and  the  Fle/h  releeve  ; 
 
 From  gvil  fet  us  free,  in  fcj  and  levc  to  live* 
 
 ■   40 
 
Of  tieaveniy  ijove.  ,3  j 
 
 40  O  Lord^  I  do  but  asky^\i2LX.  thou  to  give 
 More  ready  art  then  I  am  to  receive ; 
 
 Thy  life  thou  laidft  down  that  ray  foul  might  live, 
 Didft  cleave  to  fiejb  that  I  to  thee  might  ekave ; 
 
 My  Soul  thou  wilt  not  now  in  darknefle  leave. 
 Which  to  redeem  thou  fuffr^dft  many  a  wound. 
 And  Hell  and  Satans  malice  to  deceive, 
 Suffrcdft  thy  body  three  daies  in  the  ground  ; 
 But  raisM  up  now  to  heaven,  thy  love  aoth  more  abound. 
 
 41  For  there  thou  mak'jft  continuail  interceffion 
 For  us  thy  Servants  which  do  wander  here 
 
 In  this  vain  world,  fubjed  to  bafe  opprefHon 
 O'^ Satan,  World,  Flejh,  which  about  we  bear  : 
 
 Thou  fcnd'il:  thy  Comforter  our  hearts  to  chear. 
 That  faies,  Thy  Grace  \s  all-fufficient, 
 Efteeming  nothing  of  thine  own  too  dear, 
 For  them  which  to  thee  be  obedient. 
 And  love  and  ferve  thee  with  a  faithfull  true  intent. 
 
 42  Then  oh  my  foul !  be  bold  and  confident. 
 Though  ohlm  love  thou  have  the  fmalleft  tafte. 
 He  gave  it  that  will  daily  it  augment. 
 
 It  cherifh  carefully,  let  it  not  wafte ; 
 
 Doft  thou  defire  to  love  ?  lo,  Lve  thoa  hall  j 
 He  furely  (hail  fulfil  tiiy  whole  defire, 
 Look  all  the  ages  that  are  gone  and  paft, 
 God  never  yec  was  found  like  man,  a  lyar. 
 But  what  he  proraifeth  we  boldly  may  require. 
 
 43  Should  J  with  Job  be  thrown  down  in  the  dull  i 
 With  Jona6  drownM  in  belly  of  a  whale  • 
 With  feremj  into  a  Dungeon  thruft, 
 
 Should  I  with  7)^ W  walk  even  in  the  vale 
 
 Of  cruell  deall  death,  with  fofephfct  to  fale. 
 And  without  caufe  in  prifon  fpend  my  dales. 
 Should  damned Ghofis  {laud  ready  for  to  hale 
 My  Soul  to  hell :   all  this  me  not  difmays  : 
 J  know  whom  I  have  loved,  he  my  foul  will  raift* 
 
 "44  Should 
 
3  i  of  Heavenly  Love. 
 
 44  Should  my  fins  be  in  number  as  the  Sand, 
 And  my  forefathers  fins  my  fins  exceed 
 In  weight  and  number  :  yet  I  firm  would  ftand. 
 What  though  eternall  fire  be  fins  juft  meed  ? 
 
 Much  is  K>rgiv'n  him  that  loves  much  indeed. 
 Wherefare  mmt  Heart  and  »S*o///fliall  ever  praife 
 My  Maker  that  in  me  fuch  love  doth  breed. 
 Who  doth  my  Son!  from  hetUJh  horrour  raife 
 
 Above  the  Heavens  to  live  the  lift  of  love  alwaies. 
 
 MEDL 
 
35 
 
 Med  IT  AT.   11^ 
 
 of  Humilitp 
 
 Y  boundlefs  thoughts  that  in  a  reftlefs  mindc, 
 Deprive  my  body  oft  of  natural  reft. 
 And  urge  my  foul  true  happinefs  to  finde. 
 And  that  once  found  therein  to  fct  my  reft. 
 Do  often  to  my  purer  foul  fuggcfi:, 
 To  feek  for  pleafures,  honour,  wealth,  promotion, 
 But  more  of  them  I  gain,  the  more  opprcft 
 .     I  am  with  worldly  cares,  and  mindcs  commotion^ 
 So  that  to  nothing  in  this  world  I  have  devotion. 
 
 2  And  yet  I  fee,  all  things  that  being  have, 
 Unto  their  l?e^e  ejje  do  intend; 
 
 It  is  their  Summum  honum  all  do  crave, 
 
 Firft  fought  for  though  they  laft  it  apprehend ; 
 
 Love  is  that  good  I  feek  to  apprehend. 
 As  all  things  being  to  their  end  do  move : 
 But  none  can  but  by  humblenes  afcend 
 Into  LovQs  Courts  without  her  none  can  prove 
 What  is  the  end  and  finifhuig  of  all,  trm  Love. 
 
 3  Therefore !  fing  next  o^HumiUtj, 
 
 The  lowly  Porter  of  high  Loves  Court  Gate, 
 Who  brought  me  firft  Loves  glorious  Court  to  fte^ 
 And  all  her  Courtiers^  as  I  told  of  late  5 
 Humility  the  pooreft  beggars  Mate, 
 Yet  cquall  to  the  higheft  peer  oi  Love, 
 And  by  her  us'd-in  all  affairs  of  State, 
 Humilitj  which  doth  fo  gracious  prove 
 To  all  good  men  on  earth,  and  Angels  pure  above. 
 
 D  4  God 
 
3^  t/j     MTJ-Hrrfintj, 
 
 i  God,  fecond  Perfon  in  the  Trinity, 
 Whofe  hcing  is  immortal!,  uncreate. 
 Who  hi  ihe  dates  of  thy  Humility, 
 Didll  here  converfc  with  men  in  mean  eftatc, 
 
 That  we  thy  lowlineffe  might  imitate, 
 D^r^c^  my  Mud-  raoft  Uvely  to  expreffe 
 Hfi7/yJity  :hac  opens  wide  Loves  gate 
 To  thole  that  do  coiifcfle  their  wretchednefle. 
 
 But  fhuts  clofe  ''gainft  all  proud  and  vain  ambitious  guefts 
 
 5  Humility  that  vertue  is,  whereby 
 
 We  vile  and  lowly  feem  in  our  own  eyes ; 
 Defpifing  our  own  worth  and  dignity^, 
 Since  of  our  felves  we  nothing  have  to  prife : 
 >  he  firft  and  certain  ftep  whereby  we  rife. 
 And  climbe  the  Hill  of  Joy  and  HappinefTe ; 
 Stranger  to  fools,  companion  of  the  wife. 
 O^  Folly  ^  Pride ;   of  Grace  comes  httmblene^e  : 
 One  head-long  leades  to  hell,  the  other  unto  Bleffe. 
 
 6  This  modeft  Lady,  hnmbkne^e  of  Sprit, 
 Her  fclf  unwife  and  ignorant  doth  deem. 
 And  never  thinks  (he  able  is  to  merit. 
 
 In  Loves\\\^  Court  to  be  in  fuch  eftcem. 
 She  far  inferiour  to  her  felf  doth  feem. 
 And  never  thinks  fhe  Kmivledge  can  attain, 
 Difgrace  or  loffe  (he  fweetly  doth  redeem 
 With  Humblenefs,  and  holds  it  greateft  gain. 
 Her  Peace,  not  Place ;  true  Love^  not  Glory  to  maintain. 
 
 7  Moil  fruitfull  Lady  like  the  fertile  Vine, 
 Which  evermore  when  fhe  moft  fruit  doth  bear. 
 Her  goodlieft  branches  lowlieft  doth  decline. 
 And  as  the  faireft  clufters  do  appear 
 
 Hid  under  leaves ;  ev'n  fo  this  gracious  Far 
 Covers  all  Vertuts  under  lowlineffe -^ 
 Of  Fortunes  ftorms  flie  never  ftands  in  fear. 
 Nor  troubled  is  with  want  or  with  diftreffe. 
 For  (he  hath  learned  content  in  pain  and  happinefle. 
 
 8  Inw 
 
8  Inward  and  outward,  chis  Humility, 
 
 In  words  and.adions,  looks,  thoughts,  and  attire^ 
 The  inward  by  the  outward  we  defer y. 
 It  is  hypocrifie  for  to  defire 
 
 Lowly  to  feem,  and  fecretly  afpire 
 Unto  a  Crown,  by  legs,  with  Abfalom  : 
 Such  complement  let  Pagan  Courts  admire 
 Never  fuch  bafeneffe  yet  had  any  room 
 In  Court  of  heavenly  Love,  where  heart  and  look  is  one. 
 
 9  For  true  Bftwility  is  undivided. 
 
 She  alwaies  looks,  fpeaks,does,feems,thinks  the  fame. 
 And  though  (he  be  by  fcorners  oft  derided, 
 She^s  alwaies  humble  like  unto  her  name  : 
 
 Nor  doth  fhe  vertuous  deeds  to  purchafe  fame. 
 But  for  themfelves,  and  for  her  Lords  dear  fake. 
 Who  with  her  fufFered  much  reproach  and  fhame. 
 When  he  a  Servants  form  did  on  him  take. 
 And  Lord  of  all,  himfelf  of  none  account  did  make, 
 
 10  But  lo,  he  that  did  Bumblenefs  embrace 
 With  fuch  affedion,  God  doth  him  regard 
 As  his  dear  Sonne  :  behold,  he  doth  him  grace 
 Above  the  Angels ;  and  he  hath  prepared 
 
 Such  joys  for  him  as  cannot  be  compared  : 
 With  glory  and  with  honour  he  him  crown^'d. 
 And  though  a  while  on  earth  he  meanly  far'd. 
 All  now  unto  his  honour  doth  redound. 
 At  naming  of  his  Name  all  knees  muft  kifle  the  ground. 
 
 1 1  And  us  that  in  our  Captains  fteps  do  tread. 
 And  follow  him  in  true  Humility, 
 
 He  will  to  endleffe  blifle  and  glory  leade. 
 And  honour  here  with  true  nobility  : 
 
 And  as  he  captive  led  captivity. 
 And  did  from  Ipweft  earth  to  heaven  afcend. 
 So  from  the  duft  and  grave  (hall  we  on  high 
 Be  raised,  where  we  in  glory  (hall  tranfcend 
 The  Angels :  which  on  Head  and  Members  muft  attend. 
 
 D  z  12 Ye, 
 
2  5  ^J    J-^f^rrf^^it^J* 
 
 12  Yca,ev'nour  fledi,  though  humbled  in  the  duft. 
 By  virtue  of  our  Saviours  Refurredion, 
 
 To  foul  (hall  be  united :  and  the  juft 
 Which  have  been  humbled  here  by  his  diredion. 
 Shall  be  delivered  from  worlds  bafe  fubjedion 
 Into  the  liberty  and  glorious  light 
 Of  Gods  own  Sonne*?,  under  whofe  fafe  protedion 
 They  ever  fnall  enjoy  the  happy  fight 
 OfGodand's  Saints,  which  here  have  humbled  been  aright. 
 
 1 3  But  Bumblenefs  is  not  the  only  way 
 To  bring  us  to  this  glorious  exaltation, 
 End  of  our  hopes :  but  firit  doth  us  convay 
 To  wholefoffie  true  Repentance  to  falvation  ; 
 
 Which  is  from  filthy  (in  the  beft  purgation  : 
 Mercj  the  meek  and  hnmhle  man  doth  lave. 
 Though  jtiftke  us  condemn  to  dire  damnation,  ^ 
 li Faith  and  Hope  for  us  we  Patrons  have, 
 Whileft  Bof^ntj  grants  us  all  things  necdfnll  we  do  crave. 
 
 14  Thus  A{eek>jefs,  Patience,  true  Obedience,  ^oy. 
 Do  alwaies  with  Humility  abide, 
 
 She  is  moft  kinde  and  courteous,  never  coy 
 Unto  the  vertuous  ;  and  fne  opens  wide 
 
 Loves  gate  unto  the  Htmihls  :   but  doth  hide 
 From  th'^envious,  vain,  and  the  ambitious  wight. 
 Truth,  Prudence,  Knowledge,  which  fhould  be  their  guide 
 Thus  plwrnblenefs  guides  all  to  Truth  and  Light, 
 But  Pride,  <iAmhitiQn,  leade  to  darkpefs^  errour^  night. 
 
 1 5  This  Monfter,  foul  Ambition,  curfed  Pride, 
 Who  envying  man  ev'n  in  his  firft  creation. 
 Did  like  a  fubtle  Serpent  fmoothly  Hide 
 Ini'Edens  Garden  Mans  fweet  habitation. 
 
 Where  by  malicious,  fubtle,  falfe  perfwafion. 
 He  then  perfwaded  fimple  Eve  to  try 
 Forbidden  truits,  and  by  falfe  application 
 AfTur'd  her  file  fhould  knowledge  gain  thereby, 
 Si-ch  knowledge  gain  all  that  equivocate  and  lie. 
 
 16  Gh 
 
OfHumilitj.  37 
 
 x6  Oh  I  had  H/^«?/%  true  iv;;2oU^W^^  brought      -^ 
 
 To  Sve  before  (he  did  eommit  this  fin  ! 
 
 She  ne*r  had  entertained  fo  bale  a  thought, 
 
 Nor  we  of  Pride  and  Satan  bond-flaves  been  ; 
 See  here  the  end  of  all  that  do  begin 
 
 In  pride  and  in  ambition  :   they  muft  fall, 
 
 q^ride  firft  bctraid  us  to  the  Fowlers  gin,; 
 
 But  H^ml;/enejfe  dQliYQVs  them  from  thrall. 
 That  do  unfeignedly  with  her  for  mercy  call. 
 
 17  What  ?  be  as  gods !  For  to  be  proud  and  poor, 
 Is  a  bafe  fin,  hated  of  God  and  Man, 
 
 Behold,  ev*n  Humility's  the  door. 
 That  leades  to  HappinefTe,  ev'n  10  began 
 At  Pride  the  mifery  and  fmart  of  Man  : 
 which  ftill  in  him  remains  a  dangerous  fore. 
 For  honour  here  a  Worldling  what  you  can. 
 His  greedy  thoughts  will  never  count  it  ftore, 
 ^mhitionXik^  to  to  Hell ^nd  Grave,  ftill  gapes  for  more, 
 
 18  Thus  Poets  tell  of  ?n  ambitions  Snail, 
 That  golden  Vpeather-cock^  on  fteeple  high 
 Efpying  from  fweet  Garden,  would  afTail, 
 And  for  vain-glory  life  would  jeopardie  : 
 
 He  by  fail  hold'and  winding  fubtlety, 
 Monnts  flily  up  the  fteeples  higheft  fpire. 
 Whence  he  doth  throw  the  poor  Bird  cruelly. 
 And  to  his  place  vain-glorioufly  afpire, 
 Till  Boreas  brafen  wings  him  throws  down  in  the  mire. 
 
 19  Thus  \z!mfondjofith  left  hisy^^^  Fathers  lore. 
 And  by  his  borrowed  wings  did  foar  fo  high, 
 
 f  Lo  here  their  end  that  feek  fo  high  to  foar) 
 The  Sun-beams  heat  his  waxen  wings  did  fry. 
 
 Proud  Briar  that  faft?  and  fecure  did  lie 
 Under  ftout  Oaks  moft  hh  protecting  arms, 
 Supplanted  him  by  treafon  cunningly. 
 Then  to  Suns  heat  exposed  and  Winters  ftorms. 
 He's  trod  down  by  wilde  beads,  and  eaten  up  of  worms. 
 
 .    20  Once 
 
3B  of  BHmilityl 
 
 20  Once  had  ihtfeet  the  noble  HeaJdcMc, 
 Grieving  CO  bear  his  burthen  any  more. 
 And  Brawny  armes  their  helping  hands  denide. 
 To  feed  the  k'elij  with  convenienc  (lore : 
 
 But  hands  and  armes  forthwith  grew  weak  and  poor 
 For  want  of  fiomacks  ftrength^aing  notiriftiment. 
 And  now  the  iegs  that  able  were  before. 
 To  bear  both  Head  and  Bodies  wonderment. 
 
 Became  wrang,  ftumbling,  lame  for  want  of  government. 
 
 2 1  When  Jothams  Trees  went  out  t^anoint  a  King,    ^ W.9.8. 
 They  firft  befought  the  Olive  tree  to  reign. 
 
 But  he  his  f at nefs  highly  valuing, 
 RefusM  to  leave  it  tor  a  Kingdoms  gain ; 
 
 Next  Fig-tree  fweet  to  rule  they  would  conftrain^ 
 But  he  ^m'Afweetnefs  more  then  majefty : 
 Laft  to  the  fertile  Vine  they  do  complain. 
 Who  frmtfulnefs  loves  raoi'e  then  Soveraigntee, 
 But  Brjar  bafe  will  reign  and  the  anointed  be. 
 
 22  Like  as  on  Mo^rdtains  which  do  break  the  clouds. 
 Sand,  gravell,  and  uniTuitfu'll  earth  do  lie, 
 
 But  in  the  fruifull  vallejs  lowly  fhrowds 
 Fruit  good  for  meat,  and  to  delight  the  eye  : 
 
 And  as  the  brackifh  Waves  do  mount  on  high, 
 Whileft  freiber  Waters  filent  Aide  away ; 
 Ev'n  fo  it  fares  with  Aveet  tiumilitj. 
 Which  like  the  fruitful!  Meadow's  fruitfull  aye, 
 Ai^d  like  frefli  Brooks,  whofc  fweetneffe  never  doth  decay. 
 
 23  And  as  tall  (hips  which  bear  too  high  a  fail. 
 Are  foon  o'returned  by  a  boyftrous  winde, 
 Whileft  fmaller  VciTeis  'gainft  the  Waves  prevail. 
 Arriving  fafely  at  the  Port  afiignM  : 
 
 So  they  that  to  ambition  are  enclin'd. 
 And  Thaetor,-\\kQ  to  guide  the  Sun  afpire. 
 All  things  confume  that  under  them  they  finde. 
 Till  from  their  Coach  they  tumble  in  the  mire. 
 Till  fuell  fails,  AmUitvon  never  flakes  her  fire. 
 
OfHHtnilitj,  59 
 
 24  And  as  mans  eye,  the  higher  he  doth  ftand. 
 The  things  which  are  beneath  doth  lefTer  deem, 
 So  he  that  doth  Gods  greatnefTe  underftand. 
 In  his  own  eyes  doth  vile  and  nothing  feem. 
 
 An  humble  man's  a  gemme  of  high  efteem. 
 Which  ignorant  men  do  trample  in  the  mire. 
 Until  the  skillfull  jeweller  redeem 
 It  from  the  duft,  and  cleanfe  it  in  the  fire. 
 Then  thofe  that  trod  on  it  before,  do  it  admire. 
 
 25  Bumilitie's  the  hafts  and  foundation 
 Of  Venues  all  into  one  building  brought. 
 Which  for  to  raife  on  high  by  contemplation, 
 Muft  deep  and  low  within  the  ground  be  wrought : 
 
 If  one  delire  to  mount  his  houfe  aloft. 
 And  works  his  under-pinning  flight  below, 
 He  builds  upon  the  fands :  all  comes  to  nought, 
 For  if  the  flouds  do  come  or  winde  do  blow, 
 Afflidion,  Perfecution,  all  doth  overthrow. 
 
 26  The  ancient  Latines  Bamo,  Man  did  name. 
 By  derivation  from  Humility, 
 
 To  teach  him  that  he  (hould  become  the  fame 
 In  Truth  as  in  names  Etymology ; 
 
 And  let  a  man  look  through  Antiquity, 
 Lo  I  all  the  Men,  whofe  vertues  are  commended 
 For  paterns  good  unto  poftericy. 
 In  humbieneffe  they  have  begun  and  ended. 
 When  Pride,  as  bafeft  fin, is  alwaies  reprehended. 
 
 27  Ahdzxidi  Cain,  firftlings  of  humane  feed. 
 Ambitious  Cain,  but  Abelm^tk  and  milde. 
 His  offring  was  accepted,  v/ich  did  breed 
 Such  wrath  in  Cain,  that  he  the  ground  defil'd 
 
 With  his  own  brothers  bloud,  which  he  hath  fpoilM : 
 Mofes  is  card  the  meekeft  man  alive, 
 Ahram  himfelf  but  duft  and  afhes  ftil'd. 
 When  he  befought  his  Maker,  for  twice  five 
 Juft  men  there  foand,  to  fave  the  Sodomites  alive, 
 
 D  4  •  28  l^^cob 
 
28  Jacob  fed  Lahans  fhcep,  the  Patriarchs  all        ^ 
 Like  trade  of  husbandry  did  exercife. 
 The  Judges  with  the  Prophets  great  and  fmalf. 
 And  all  good  Kings  were  low  in  cheir  own  eyes. 
 John  Baptifi  the  Meffias-ihip  denies, 
 And  humbly  doth  him felf  unworthy  deem 
 To  be  him  that  ftoops  and  his  fhooe  ujnties, 
 Chrift  did  it  no  difparagemenc  efteem, 
 
 To  wafh  their  feet,  whom  with  his  bloud  he  would  redeem. 
 
 29  Ah  what  an  humble  minde  did  ylt/^ry  bear. 
 When  with  falc  tears  that  flowed  from  her  eyes, 
 She  wafli'd  Chrifts  feet,and  wip*t  them  with  her  hair, 
 Great  Volumes  I  fuppofe  would  not  comprifc 
 Names  of  all  humble  Saints  ;  let  it  fuffice; 
 Their  Names  are  written  in  the  Book  of  Life, 
 They  here  vain  worldly  glory  did  defpifc, 
 Free  from  Ambition^  A^alice,  Envy^  Strife, 
 
 And  now  by  Faith  and  Hope  in  Loves  Court  leade  their  life. 
 
 30  Then  O  my  Soul,  covet  Humilitj  : 
 
 Doft  thou  reekKnowledge,Plearure, Wealth, Promotion  ? 
 All  thefe  fhe  will  thee  bring  aifurediy, 
 She^s  like  the  Mafter-fpring  that  firft  gives  notion 
 To  ev'ry  wheel  that  in  the  Clock  hath  motion. 
 Like  Salt  that  favours  every  difh  we  eat. 
 She's  Sugar  fweeaiing  every  bitter  Potion, 
 Promotion,  Knowledge,  Pleafure,  Wealth,  Drink^,  Afeat^ 
 
 Humility s  all  thefe,  and  yet  fhe  is  not  great. 
 
 3 1   Oh  nevet  let  me  feek  to  emulate. 
 
 Except  in  Goodneffe,  and  with  more  defire 
 To  follow,  then  in  hope  to  adequate. 
 And  like  a  Tree  lo*w  planted  near  the  mire. 
 
 Bring  forth  much  Fruit,  not  Fucll  for  the  fire  : 
 With  little  let  me  ever  be  content, 
 Patient  of  crofTes ;  for  my  fins  require. 
 Than  I  have  had,  far  greater  punifhment. 
 
 And  far  thy  fmallcil  favours  my  deferts  out-went. 
 
 32F0] 
 
of  Bamilitj.  ^j 
 
 32  For  I  confeffe  that  too  ambitioufly 
 
 I  hunt  for  worlds  enticements  bafe  and  vain. 
 Which  clog  my  Soul  fo,  that  fhe  cannot  fly 
 Aloft  where  found  joys  evermore  remain : 
 
 And  though  I  bafely  think  of  gold  and  gain. 
 Yet  Honours  glittering  (hews  fo  daze  mine  eyes, 
 I  am  ttill  tainted  with  ambitious  ftain. 
 And  wi(h  I  might  to  worldly  honour  rife. 
 But  this  in  me  the  Flefh  not  Spirit  doth  devife. 
 
 33  For  (he  hath  learnM,  that  not  from  Euft  or  Weft 
 Promotion  comes.  The  higher  one  is  placet 
 
 The  greater  cares  and  troubles  him  infeft. 
 And  as  thou  more  or  greater  Talents  haft. 
 
 The  more  thou  art  to  count  for  at  the  laft. 
 
 Thou  art  a  Steward  here  ;  ''  Tis  not  thine  own. 
 
 But  as  thee  'bove  thy  fellows  God  hath  grac^t. 
 
 So  muft  thy  Faith  and  care  ^bove  theirs  be  (hown, 
 
 We  do  exped  befc  Cro}>s  whereas  beft  Seed  is  fown. 
 
 34  Thefe  things  O  God  I  ask,  do  not  deny. 
 Let  me  depend  upon  thy  Pro  vidcnce 
 
 In  pain  and  eafe,  lofTe  and  profperity. 
 My  felf  fubmit  with  all  obedience 
 
 Unto  thy  Will  ?  perform  with  diligence 
 Charge  publique,  private  :   Let  Humility 
 Be  unto  me  a  Rock  of  fure  defence, 
 Againft  mens  malice,  and  worlds  injury, 
 ^And  where  my  weakneile  fails,  let  thy  good  Grace  fupply . 
 
 3  5  Oh  thou  that  Lasiarm  from  Dives  gate, 
 
 Didft  into  Ahrams  blefled  bofome  raife. 
 
 There  to  enjoy  eternall  happy  ftate. 
 
 That  here  on  earth  was  huwbleddM  his  daies ; 
 Dired  mine  humble  heart  in  all  thy  waies. 
 
 The  meek  in  judgement  thou  delight^ft  to  guide,' 
 
 Turn  all  I  do  unto  thy  glorious  praife, 
 
 Preferve  me  from  Ambition,  Envy,  Pride, 
 And  though  with  Lamar's  fores,  in  thy  Love  let  me  bide. 
 
 36  Thou 
 
'4i  of  Humility] 
 
 %6  Thou  haft  O  Lord  proclaimed  bieffedneflc 
 To  all  the  meek  in  Heart  and  poor  m  Spirit : 
 Bleft  are  the  Meek,  they  fhall  the  earth  pofTefTe, 
 The  Poor  ev'n  now  Gods  Kingdom  do  inherit. 
 
 Lord  I  I.acknowledge  freely  my  demerit. 
 It  is  thy  Grace  whereby  I  live'and  move. 
 Thy  humbling  to  the  Croffc  tor  me  did  merit. 
 That  I  fhould  be  exalted  to  thy  Love, 
 And  live  with  thefe  in  bliffe  eternally  above. 
 
 3  7  I  ask  that  which  thy  blefled  Martyrs  h^^^ 
 Which  here  have  witneiVd  their  Humility, 
 And  of 'that  cup  of  gall  to  lafte  were  glad. 
 Which  firft  their  Mafter  fv,^IIow*d  willingly 
 
 Thy  Grace,  O  Lord  !  which  thou  wilc  not  deny. 
 For  they  have  found  it  all  fufficient. 
 Humble  me  how  thou  wilt :  Ability 
 Yet  grant  in  forrow  to  be  patient. 
 
 And  ftrength  with  Vaul,  in  pain  or  eafe,  to  be  content. 
 
 3  8  Grant  me  thy  Grace  but  to  conceive  the  end 
 
 And  certain  fruits  of  my  humiliation. 
 
 Then  ihall  I  plainly  fee  and  apprehend. 
 
 That  it  prepares  me  fit  for  exaltation  ; 
 
 And  to  make  fure  with  fear  mine  own  falvation. 
 
 Whereby  I  may  ftand  firm  and  confident 
 
 'Gainft  wicked  Men,  Hell,  Devils,  and  damnation. 
 
 Who  never  fhall  be  able  to  prevent 
 Thy  love  in  Chrift,  which  thou  on  humble  men  haft  bent: 
 
 39  Now  for  that  thing  which  worldlings  do  deplore, 
 I  yeeld  to  thee  moft  hearty  laud  and  praife. 
 That  thou  art  pleasM  to  humble  me  therefore. 
 On  earth  that  thou  again  to  heav'n  might'tt  raife. 
 
 Oh  teach  me  Lord  to  number  fo  my  dales. 
 That  I  my  life  may  labour  to  amend. 
 Oh  teach  me  lonvlme^e  in  all  my  waies. 
 To  think  of  my  beginning  and  mine  end. 
 
 Pnnce,  Beggar,  born  alike,  and  to  their  grave  defcend. 
 
 AO  And 
 
of  Uumility]  a^ 
 
 40  And  fincc  that  fweet  Humilities  condition 
 I  have  fo  learned  by  this  Meditation, 
 That  now  I  hate  Pride,  Envy,  and  Ambition,' 
 With  complements  bafe  iiibtie  machination  • 
 
 Grant  me  to  follow  Chrilts  humiliation. 
 Who  from  the  Croffc  to  Glory  &4,  afcend, 
 Whofe  fufferings  make  a  reconciliation 
 For  thofe  that  by  true  Faith  him  apprehend. 
 
 And  follow  him  in  lowlinefle  unto  the  end. 
 
 MEDt 
 
44 
 
 Meditat,    IIL 
 
 of  Ke^tnuncc,  ^ 
 
 He  Highefi  that  created  firft  of  nought 
 Ac/;^ojvaft,  and  out  thereof  did  take 
 The  Earth,  whereof  he  noblcft  Creature 
 wrought,  ( fake, 
 
 Ev^n  man,  and  made  all  Creatures  for  his 
 Him  firft  pure,  juft,  and  righteous  did  make. 
 But  fince  their  own  inventions  they  obey. 
 And  in  a  right  path  (tt^  their  way  miftake. 
 And  as  biinde  fools  and  flaves  have  gone  aftray. 
 Nor  can  without  the  true  Light  finde  again  the  way. 
 
 2  For  whilft  they  do  yet  in  their  fins  remain. 
 Their  Souls  in  errour  and  in  darkneffe  bide. 
 They  know  not  how  they  ftiould  be  born  again. 
 For  Sin  this  myftery  from  them  doth  hide ; 
 
 And  till  Humilitj  their  trufty  Guide, 
 Shall  them  to  wholefome  true  Repentance  Icade, 
 They  miHe  their  aim,  and  ftriving  ftray  more  wide ; 
 Repentance  quickneth  men  in  lin  clean  dead, 
 i  And  ceacheth  new-born  babes  in  path  of  Life  to  tread. 
 
 1  3  She  is  the  Midwife,  that  with  keeneft  knife 
 Our  Navell  cuts,  whereby  we  cleave  to  fin, 
 VVho  though  fhe  crueil  feem,  yet  gives  fweet  life. 
 When  firft  to  live  in  S  pirit  we  begi  n ; 
 She  us  polluted  and  defird  within. 
 Doth  deanfe  in  Fountain  of  Regeneration, 
 Us  new-born  Babes,  (he  teacherh  to  let  in 
 The  milk  fincere  to  fure  Jufiification  ; 
 
 ^-TiJl  ftronger  meat  make  fttong  oar  Faith  to  fure  Salvation. 
 
 4.  And 
 
4  And  though  in  chain  of  Gods  moft  firm  Decree, 
 Firft  faving  link  is  his  Pndefthation, 
 BleBiQft  next,  them  Cauhig,  yet  we  fee. 
 
 No  certain  pledges  here  of  our  Salvation, 
 Till  true  Repentance  works  HumiUatien : 
 Lo  i  then  we  do  by  right  degrees  proceed 
 Unto  the  higheft  link,  GUrificatkn ; 
 So  th^vRepentance  firft  to  us  doth  reed. 
 What  is  eternally  in  Heav'n  by  God  decreed. 
 
 5  Thou  that  doft  Hearts  with  true  iJf;?f»^^»f^feafon^' 
 Making  them  view  their  own  vile  wretchedneffc. 
 That  caft  down  with  Apoftafie  and  Treafon, 
 
 We  may  of  thee  feek  endleife  Happinefle ; 
 
 Firft  grant  me  true  Repentance  next  to  expreflc 
 What  fov'raign  Vertues  I  in  her  have  found. 
 And  though  at  firft  my  foul  with  bittcrnefle 
 Were  overwhelmed ;  yet  Grace  did  cure  that  wound  / 
 So  where  moft/«  there  is,  Mercj  doth  moft  abound. 
 
 6  Repentance  is  a  holy  work  of  Grace, 
 
 From  godly  Sorrow  :  by  which  Man  from  fin 
 Is  turn'd :  Gods  promifes  in  Chnft  c'embrace,} 
 And  fruits  fit  for  Repentance  to  begin  : 
 
 Repentance  is  Gods  holy  work  within. 
 To  work  our  Ri^htesufnep,  and  Sin  deface, 
 And  no  Man  can  be  exercifed  therein, 
 But  he  that  ftandeth  in  the  ftate  of  Grace ; 
 For  no  Man  turns  to  God,  till  God  him  firft  embrace. 
 
 7  Grace  and  Repentance  are  in  time  con joyn'd. 
 As  Fi're  and  Heat ;  but  as  Heat  firft  appears 
 To  us,  when  fire  and  Embers  is  confined, 
 
 Ev'n  fo  when  Jpark^  of  Grace  our  heart  firft  chears, 
 
 Repentance  manifefts  her  felf  by  tears. 
 Grace  is  the  fap  in  hcav'nly  vegetation. 
 Repentance  is  the  prime  bud  which  it  bears. 
 The  firft  fure  fign  of  true  Regeneration, 
 Then  follow  leaves,  flowr's,  fruits^  as  certain  demonftration. 
 
 8  This 
 
Mfna  -J    — r 
 
 8  This  g©dly  Sorrow  differs  from  the  care 
 And  LTtef  a  worldling  in  his  heart  receives. 
 
 By  fe  ilc  of  Gods  juft  wrath  or  great  mens  fear. 
 Or  ought  chat  their  good  names  or  goods  bereaves. 
 
 This  godly  Sorrow  grief  of  minde  conceives. 
 That  he  hath  fin'd,  and  that  he  did  difpleafc 
 So  good  and  kinde  a  God,  which  fo  clofe  cleaves 
 To's  heart,  that  though  no  fear  did  him  difeafe. 
 Of  Judge,  Hell,Devil,nought  but  Grace  can  him  appeafe. 
 
 9  But  true  Refentance  doth  repent  of  all. 
 And  not  of  many  or  one  only  fin  : 
 Herod  conwtntd  thus  at  Bapi^s  eall, 
 Him  gladly  heard,  and  hearing  did  begin 
 
 For  to  do  many  things :  but  ftill  livM  ia 
 The  lin  ot  Incell:  with  his  brothers  Love ; 
 Some,  like  th'Adulterer,  do  ceafe  to  lin, 
 VVhen  they  want  ftrength  :  from  bad  to  worfe  fome  mo\ 
 As  when  thcprodigall  a  covetous  man  doth  prove. 
 
 10  She  hath  two  hands,  with  one  lo  (he  begins 
 ^'    To  preffe  us  down  to  true  mortification, 
 
 ^    Whereby  we  may  return  from  all  our  fms ; 
 Us  th'otner  raifeth  by  Regeneration 
 
 To  a  new  life^  and  to  SanEiification. 
 One  from  all  a(^uall  fins  makes  us  abftain, 
 Supprcffech,  weakens  natures  depravation  ; 
 Makes  the  Minde  purpofe,  and  the  Will  full  fain. 
 And  all  our  whole  endeavours  from  fin  to  refrain. 
 
 1 1  The  other  hand  mans  purged  minde  doth  raife 
 Unto  a  ferious  firm  deliberation. 
 
 To  yeeld  fincere  obedience  to  Gods  S^jes, 
 And  workech  in  the  will  an  inclination 
 
 Him  to  obey,  as  at  our  firft  Creation. 
 This  doth  Mans  life  and  beft  endeavours  frame. 
 To  walk  here  in  a  holy  converfation  : 
 Though  all  we  do  unperfed:  is  and  lame. 
 Yet  if  the  heart  be  right,  God  will  accept  the  fame.' 
 
 15A 
 
1 2  And  as  (he  hath  a  double  encrgic. 
 
 Men  head-long  to  th'infernall  piE  to  throw^ 
 
 And  them  again  by  Faith  to  vivifie : 
 
 So  though  of  this  great  work  one  caufe  we  know, 
 
 Go^s  Sprit,  that  whereas  it  lift  doth  blow ; 
 Yet  ufcth  it  a  two-fold  inftrument. 
 The  Law  which  Death  to  us  for  fin  doth  (how. 
 The  Gojpel  that  doth  preach  atonement; 
 
 Thus  both  the  Law  and  Gojpel  teach  us  to  repent. 
 
 » 
 
 1 3  The  Law  firft  pierceth  ev*n  the  very  heart. 
 And  doth  by  little  and  degrees  proceed; 
 
 Till  Knowkdge  four  things  necdfull  doth  impart, 
 Gdds  Law^  the  Gnilt  of  Sin,  and  Sins  jufi  weed. 
 
 Which  is  eternall  Fire  by  God  decreed : 
 Then  we  thefe  rightly  to  our  felves  apply. 
 Which  doch  in  us  a  fear  and  horrour  breed. 
 Except  on  Gofpels  comfort  we  rely ; 
 For  without  that  s^e  die  in  hell  eternally. 
 
 14  Then  doth  the  Gofpel  make  us  comprehend 
 Gods  mercy,  for  it  ferioufly  enquire. 
 
 And  by  the  gifts  ot  Knowledge  to  contend. 
 That  though  I  jeftly  have  defervM  Gods  ire. 
 
 If  I  my  felt  deny  yet,  and  defire 
 My  truft  in  Chrifts  folc  merits  to  repofc, 
 I  fhall  thereby  efcape  eternall  Fire : 
 Thus  doth  Repnt ance  gn^i  2inA  joy  impofe. 
 Grief  for  my  fins ;  but  Joy,  God  doth  me  from  them  loofe-' 
 
 1 5  Thus  f  0^/^  Sorrow  in  our  heart  being  wrought. 
 Which  brings  Repentance  with  true  change  of  minde. 
 We  are  refolv'd  never  in  word,  deed,  thought. 
 
 So  to  offend  God  in  our  wonted  kinde. 
 
 But  a  new  life  to  leade ;.  lo,  then  we  finde 
 Within  our  felves  a  wondrous  alteration, 
 Kot  that  it  changeth  fubftance  of  our  minde. 
 Or  body,  in  the  matter  or  the  faihion. 
 But  doth  reform  their  powers  as  in  their  firft  creation.^ 
 
 18  Ther 
 
1 6  Then  bring  we  fruits  worthy  amcndemenC  ' : 
 Of  life :  the  truth  whereof  we  do  exprefle. 
 
 When  by  good  works  we  fhew  how  we  repent: 
 Repenting  fouls  be  Trees  of  Righteoufnelte, 
 Planted  by  God  which  Rivers  do  refrefh, 
 Ev^n  flouds  that  from  the  Sanduary  flow, 
 Whofe  boughs  do  lowly  ftoop  withfruitfulneffc : 
 Their  fruits  ibr  meat ;  leaves  good  for  medicine  grow, 
 Elfe  to  the  root  the  Axe  is  laid  them  down  to  throw.  ' 
 
 1 7  As  Pharmh  with  his  Butler  and  his  Baker, 
 So  deals  ihe  with  the  wicked  and  the  juft, 
 Ti  ey  bc»th  alike  offended  have  their  Maker, 
 And  both  alike  into  one  dungeon  thruft  : 
 
 but  lo,  fhe  lifts  to  place  of  higheft  truft 
 The  Butler,  but  the  Baker  doth  forfake, 
 And  leaves  him  to  the  meed  of  the  unjuft :  .^ 
 
 Thus  with  her  left  hand  (he  us  drowns  in  Lake,  :  ,;  j 
 
 But  with  her  right  us  into  cndleffe  joy  doth  take.  ^ 
 
 i  8  Near  to  her  follows  gracious  Rejlithtion,  -   ■ 
 
 A  Lady  of  a  confcience  wondrous  tender ; 
 That  of  ail  benefits  makes  retribution. 
 And  for  "a  wrong  done  double  mends  will  render; 
 
 Sorrow,  Tearf^  Kiyidcneffe,  Boantj,  do  attend  her, 
 Sighs^  Praier.^  true  Devotion  on  her  wait, 
 If  (he  wants  thefe  AiTociates,  God  amend  her. 
 She's  but  Hjpocrifte  the  devils  bait, 
 
 'To  catch  poor  fouls  with  falfe  pretences  and  deceit. 
 
 19  Four  things  ©bferve  in  this  great  work  of  wonder, 
 
 Grace,  horronr,  forrow,  comfortahle  peace. 
 
 Which  I  reiemble  to  tempeftuous  thunder. 
 
 Lightning  (hews  firft,  next  cracky,  then  Jhowers  encrcafc. 
 But  all  in  comfortable  SHrt-fhine  ceafe  : 
 
 So  in  this  work  of  our  Regeneration, 
 
 The  Spirit  firft  lights :  Bell  doth  like  thunder  preafe; 
 
 Then^  i.  rrows,  clouds,  tears ^  Jhowers  make  inundation :       1 
 Laftly,  like  Sun-fiines  Joy  which  feals  r  p  our  falvation. 
 
 20  And 
 
of  Repentance,  49 
 
 20  And  asm  coiirfe  of  humane  generation, 
 Conception^  travell,  laftly  birth  we  fee ; 
 So  in  this  work  of  our  regeneration. 
 
 The  Spirit, sSouls  horrour,  inward  joy  agree  : 
 
 The  Sprit  firft  giveth  life  and  power  to  be. 
 The  Soul  then  travelleth  in  grief  and  pain. 
 Then  followeth  our  glad  nativitj, 
 WhUh  recompenfech  all  our  lofTe  with  gain  : 
 iThus  as  at  firft  the  flejh  the  Spirit  begets  again. 
 
 21  And  as  fomewomen  though  they  do  conceave^ 
 And  quickning  joy  do  feel  within  their  wOmb, 
 Yet  by  diforder  oft  a  hurt  receive. 
 
 And  fo  mifcarry  ere  to  birth  they  come. 
 So  that  their  womb  becomes  the  infants  tomb; 
 So  in  us  oft  a  quickning  Spirit  doth  move, 
 As  \{ Repentance  were  in  us  begun,  ?  ; 
 
 Yet  in  the  end  it  doth  abortive  prove. 
 This  is  when  we  refift  the  holy  Spirit  of  Love'. 
 
 22  Some,  as  I  fay  conceive  an  embrjon. 
 But  lofe  their  fruit  ev'n  in  the  vegetation. 
 Some  in  due  time  to  travell  have  begun. 
 
 But  wanted  ftrength  ev'n  in  the  procreation^ 
 And  in  this  weaknefTe  fain  to  defperation. 
 Like  fudoi  they  have  ftrangled  their  own  brood. 
 Before  it  had  in  new  life  refpiration. 
 Who  did  deplore  betraying  innocent  bloud. 
 Well  he  began,  but  ended  in  a  defperate  mood. 
 
 23  But  if  our  travell  ^oth.  to  birth  proceed, 
 And  that  there  is  a  living  c  hi  I  de  tor  th  brought,- 
 Oh  then  wh^t  joj  and  comfort  it  doth  breed. 
 Then  we  employ  our  care,  and  ev'ry  thought 
 
 How  we  may  nurfe  and  feed  it  as  we  ought  • 
 We  therefore/?^/?  and  milkS^  it  firft  give, 
 And  2fter ftronger  meats  for  it  are  fought, 
 Till  it  unto  a  perfed  man  hath  thrive, 
 Lo  then  he  can  beget  that  earft  began  to  live, 
 
 E  34  Ev*n 
 
-^t5 — '^ —  Vj  REfemance. 
 
 24  Ev*n  fo  a  nevp-born  Bah  in  Chrift  proceeds. 
 There's  wondrous  joy  at's  firft  regeneratjok^ 
 On  Gojpers  Mdkh^  young  and  tender  Teeds, . 
 Till  he  grow  ftrong  :  Then  from  Fredefiimtion 
 
 He  can  difcourfc  ev'n  to  Glorification, 
 Thus  doth  he  to  a  height  and  fulnefTe  grow 
 Of  age  and  ftrength  by  Spirits  Illumination, 
 Till  he  all  Myfteries  in  Chrift  doth  know, 
 Jhen  is  he  able  unto  others  them  to  fhow. 
 
 25  Men  are  like  Horfeswilde,  who  fure  had  been. 
 As  at  the  firft,  to  Man  obedient, 
 
 Had  they  not  been  corrupted  by  mans  fin. 
 And  would  have  h.een  fervants  moil  dihgent. 
 
 Now  t  hey  grow  Rebels,  difobedient. 
 Till  we  with  bit,  yoke,  bridle,  do  them  tame  : 
 So  man  grows  'gainft  his  Maker  infolent, 
 Till  by  Repentance  he  doth  him  reclame ; 
 Then  he  becomes  as  at  the  firft  God  did  him  frame. 
 
 26  Mans  heart  is  like  the  ground  which  for  mans  fin 
 Is  curfed,  thorns  and  thiftles  for  to  rear. 
 Which  firft  the  skillfull  Plough-man  doth  begin. 
 With  a  ftrong  Team,  of  Oxen  up  to  tear  ; 
 
 Fallows  and  Harrows  it  oft  to  prepare. 
 Pure,  fweet  and  clean  for  to  receive  his  k^di ; 
 Lo  then,  in  ftead  of  Thorns  it  Wheat  will  bear. 
 Repentance  ihus  ploughs  hearts  ro  kiW  fins  weed, 
 1  And  tils  it  fit  and  Iweet  for  Grace  to  {ow  faiths  icQd. 
 
 'ziy  Ifaman/o)5?j  and  doth  not  7'?'// his  ground. 
 Or  if  one  Till  his  ground  and  do  not  foVp, 
 On  firft  kinde.  Thorns  and  Thiftles  do  abound, 
 \Vhich  choke  the  ktdi  fo  that  it  "cannot  grow ; 
 [  And  from  the  unfoW'n  tilled  ground,  we  mow 
 
 Kothing  but  ftinking  weeds  fit  for  the  fire  : 
 Ev*n  fo,  except  with  forrow  we  do  plow 
 Our  hearts y  and  JVord  toforfi  therein  defire ; 
 Sin  choaks  aW^race,  and  Vf^eeds  therein  grow  rank  and  higher. 
 
 28  i?^- 
 
 I? 
 
of  Repentance.  ji 
 
 28  Repentance  like  an  Axe  is,  that  hath  praid 
 On  all  the  Cedars  that  on  Lebanon  ftand ; 
 And  ev'ry  one  down  on  the  earth  hath  laid. 
 
 The  found  (he  hews  and  fquares  with  her  right  hand. 
 
 Making  them  pofts  and  pillars  fit  to  ftand 
 InGodsownhoafe:  But  ev'ry  hollow  cruft 
 She  tears  and  cleaves  for  fire  with  her  left  hand  : 
 Thus  doth  Repentance  trim  and  fquare  the  juft ; 
 Defpair  th'ungodly  rends,  and  into  hell  doth  thruft. 
 
 29  Behold  1  we  thus  with  trembling  and  with  fear. 
 In  pain  and  grief  work  out  our  own  falvation. 
 But  fome  whenas  Repentance  draweth  near. 
 And  cals  their  confcience  to  examination, 
 
 Like  Ahab  fall  into  this  bitter  paffion, 
 what,  haft  thoufsund  me  0  mine  enemy  I 
 Defpifing  godly  Prophets  reformation. 
 And  rather  unregenerate  chufe  to  ^iQ^ 
 Then  pangs  and  bitter  throws  of  a  new  birth  to  try. 
 
 30  Of  all  the  Ffr/-;/f/ that  attend  Zoi'f/ ftate, 
 Ev'n  from  dread  Mercj  that  fits  in  her  Throne^ 
 To  low  Eumilit)  that  keeps  her  gate, 
 
 Our  blcffed  Saviour  hath  us  paterns  (hown. 
 
 Only  becaufe  no  (in  was  ever  known 
 To  be  in  him,   He  cannot  well  be  faid 
 For  to  repent  of  fins  that  be  his  own  ; 
 But  fure  for  ours  a  ranfome  dear  he  paid. 
 And  felt  the  wrath  of  God  which  on  us  fhould  be  laid. 
 
 3 1  His  Soul  was  heavy  ev'n  unto  the  death. 
 He  fearM  to  drink  this  cup  of  bitterneffe, 
 
 God  did  on  him  fuch  wrath  and  vengeance  breathe. 
 That  he  fweat  drops  of  bloud  in  his  diftreffc  : 
 
 Such  horrour,  by  Gods  curfe  did  him  deprcfTe, 
 That  he  cri'd  but  as  if  he  were  forfaKen, 
 Such  horrour  doth  repenting  fouls  opprefTe, 
 But  not  in  fo  great  meafure  are  they  fhaken. 
 For  Chrift  the  edge  of  Gods  difpleaiiire  ofl^hath  taken. 
 
 E  2  32  This 
 
^!i  ■  Of  Kepent.ince. 
 
 32  Thiswas  biswaytoheav'n,  This  mufl  be  ours,    . 
 Before  we  be  to  true  Re^entame  brought. 
 Conf^der  now  with  me  the  bitter  ftowers. 
 Whereby  our  Fathers  have  Refentance  fought. 
 
 Let  J^hrAm  tell,  from  Native  Countrey  brought 
 Into  an  unknown  Land,  to  be  a  ftrangcr. 
 Where  he  endured  hunger,  cold,  and  drought, 
 S^\\ov^Canams  famine  made  an  Egyjt  ranger. 
 
 Whereof  the  lofle  of  Wife  and  Life  he  was  in  danger. 
 
 3  3    Afflided  'job,  modell  of  true  Repentance, 
 How  was  he  plagu'd  without  ?  frighted  within  ? 
 Who  though  he  feem'd  moft  happy  in  his  entrance, 
 Yet  his  laft  daies  were  beft  :  D.ivid^id  fin 
 
 Moft  defperately  :  but  after  did  begin 
 Sadly  to  cry,  when  he  Gods  anger  found. 
 Purge  me  withotit,  and  make  me  clean  within. 
 When  Solomon  felt  his  fins  curfed  wound. 
 
 He  a  whole  Book  of  true  Repentance  did  compound. 
 
 34  Good  Bez.eki^<th  chattered  like  a  Swallow, 
 Or  like  a  Crane,  and  mourned  like  a  Dove, 
 And  though  hts  Son  Manages  long  did  wallow 
 In  much  foul  fin,  yet  bondage  did  him  move 
 To  true  Repentance  ;   Teter  more  did  love 
 His  Mafter  afc^cr  unadvised  deniall : 
 
 1      Thus  all  Gods  fcrvants  better  Saints  do  prove 
 
 I      After  they  have  endured  the  fiery  triall. 
 
 Experience  of  Gods  love  makes  holy  men  more  loyalL 
 
 \  3  5  But  why  feek  I  for  witnefFes  without  ? 
 
 Look  in  thine  heart,  if  there  thou  haft  not  found 
 This  fmart  of  horrour,  thou  maift  juftly  doubt 
 j     Thy  foul's  not  yet  up  in  Lifes  bound  • 
 !         Therefore  unto  thy  felf  with  fpeed  propound, 
 I     To  view  Gods  wrath  and  thine  own  wretchednefle, 
 Then  grief  of  heart  and  forrow  will  abound. 
 Which  thee  unto  the  brmk  of  hell  will  prefle, 
 {Till  Faith  thee  raife  by  i»X>(>ardjoj  to  happinefle. 
 
 36  She 
 
of  Repentance,  5  3 
 
 '36  She  is  not  like  the  fruit  which  to  the  eye 
 
 Was  wondrous  fair,  and  pleafant  to  the  tafte. 
 
 Which  poifonM  Adam  and  his  Progeny  : 
 
 She  bitter  is  at  fir  ft,  fweet  at  the  laft  : 
 And  when  the  cloud  of  forrow's  over-paft, 
 
 She  brings  of  Joy  and  comfort  fo  great  ftore 
 
 That  all  become  new :   lo,  old  things  are  paft. 
 
 She  is  the  Antidote  th^i  doth  reftore 
 What  (lAdam  loft,  when  he  forfook  his  Makers  lore. 
 
 37  No,  th* Antidote  is  Ghrifts  moft  precious  Bloud, 
 Refentance  is  but  the  preparative. 
 
 To  make  our  fouls  tafte  this  moft  heav'nly  food. 
 Then  which  no  other  can  keep  us  alive : 
 
 And  till  Refentance  out  of  us  doth  drive 
 In-bred  corruption,  and  all  aduall  fin. 
 This  Balm  of  G Head  will  not  make  us  thrive. 
 Oh  then  Repentance !  purge  me  clean  within, 
 .And  make  my  ftomack  fit  this  Manna  to  let  in. 
 
 38  The  Spirit's  willing  but  the  Flefi  is  weak. 
 Oh  a  moft  pill  is  this  temptation , 
 
 None  but  they  that  have  felt  it,  right  can  fpeak 
 What  pangs  it  breeds  in  our  regeneration  ; 
 
 Well,  let  men-pleafers  only  fing  falvation. 
 Let  not'vain  fruitlefle  hopes  thine  heart  deceive^ 
 We  muft  firft  tafte  the  curfe  of  our  damnation. 
 Before  falvation  truly  we  conceive ; 
 As  head,  fo  muft  the  members  that  to  it  do  cleave. 
 
 3  9  We  here  muft  tafte  it,  or  when  we  appear 
 At  Chrifts  Tribunall  •  From  which  none  can  hide 
 Himfelf;    but  all  ft  and  forth  themfelves  to  clear ; 
 W^hen  Books  are  brought  forth,  and  are  open'd  vvide^ 
 
 In  fight  o^God,  Chrifi^  Angels,  and  the  Bride, 
 When  Satan  and  thy  confcience  thee  accufe. 
 And  no  gold  C2in  an  Advocate  provide  : 
 Oh,  who  thinks  of  this  day  and  can  refufe 
 
 To  tafte  here  0^  Chrifts  Cnp,  and  fcape  the  "Devils  Crnfe  f 
 .  ¥.  X  /LoWhfre- 
 
54  t>7  i^^f^martce. 
 
 40  Wherefore  againft  thy  felf  an  Adion  bring, 
 And  thus  accufe,  examine,  judge,  and  try. 
 Left  thou  beeft  judged  of  the  righteous  King  : 
 Fir  ft  before  Chrifts  Tribunall  proftrate  lie, 
 
 A^  if  he  then  beheld  thee  with  his  eye, 
 Confefle  thy  in-bred  fins,  known,  and  unfeen, 
 Againft  thy  felf  pronounce  unfeigncdly 
 Damnation,  hell,  and  horrour ;  when  we  fecm 
 Moft  vile  in  our  own  eyes,  God  doth  us  beft  cfteem. 
 
 41  Death  to  all  men  the  rvages  is  of  fin. 
 But  Onto  thofc  the  Hav'n  ofHappwefe, 
 
 That  thus  on  earth  condemn  themfelves  within. 
 And  after  bring  forth  fruits  o^ Right eoufneffe  j 
 
 But  to  thofe  that  go  on  in  SK>ickecln€{[ey 
 Death  is  the  Port  and  entrance  into  Hell. 
 I  ord  give  me  here  this  pill  of  bitterncfle. 
 Which  may  corruption  from  mine  heart  expell : 
 No  wound  can  be  fo  deep,  but  thou  by  grace  canft  heal. 
 
 42  And  though  (he  fcems  Iike^^r^  two-edged  fwerd, 
 That  keeps  from  man  the  way  to  Tree  of  Life  ^ 
 
 I     Becaufe  her  fiery  triall  is  abhor'd, 
 '     And  Cowards  heart  doth  fain  to  fee  her  knife, 
 Swouning  away  at  Flefh  and  Spirits  ftrife  : 
 Oh  never  yet  let  fear  my  courage  quail. 
 To  hinder  me  from  that  fwect  Tree  of  Life y 
 Better  Rcventance  thredi  me  with  her  flail 
 ;  On  earth ;  then  hellif^  Dragon  break  me  with  his  taiL 
 
 •  43   We  are  as  Satan  hop'd  fob  to  have  found, 
 Whenas  he  faid.  Doth  Job  ferve  God  for  nought  ? 
 WhiliVGcd  doth  hedge  us  in  on  each  fide  round. 
 And  profpcrs  all  that  by  our  hands  are  wrought, 
 
 ,         Whilft  by  our  ftocks  are  multitudes  forth  brought, 
 
 J     So  long  we  fcem  his  bounty  to  embrace  ; 
 But  take  away  our  goods  and  leave  us  nought. 
 Behold  I  fay  we  curfc  him  to  his  face, 
 
 TBxcept  as  unto  job  he  grant  preventing  grace. 
 
 44  This 
 
of  Refentance,  •      55 
 
 44  This  is  of  wicked  men  the  punifhinenr. 
 That  all  their  life  Repentance  have  defpifedj 
 Ev'n  at  their  end  they  think  not  to  repent^, 
 This  trade  muft  in  thy  youth  be  exercifed. 
 
 As  Abel  of  his  firftlings  facrificed. 
 They  that  froni  fin  abftain  not  till  their  laft. 
 And  to  worlds  pleafures  have  their  (Ircngth  dcvifed ; 
 Are  like  thofe,  that  being  fick  profeife  to  faftj, 
 Whenas  alas  I  they  have  no  appetite  or  taf!e. 
 
 45  Such  late  Repentance  feldome  is  or  never : 
 Wfe  one  examjple  in  the  Scripture  reade 
 Not  to  defpair,  repent  what  time  foever. 
 But  only  one  example,  left  it  breed 
 
 Prefumptioa ;  It  is  meat  and  drink  indeed 
 To  Satan,  for  to  fee  youth  do  his  will. 
 And  on  the  other  fide  great  joy  doth  breed 
 To  th'Angels,  for  to  fee  young  men  fullfill 
 Gods  Statutes  in  their  Youth,  and  eke  obey  his  WiH^ 
 
 46  Oh  then  embrace  her  whilft  'tis  calM  To  day  i 
 For  moft  uncertain  is  our  life  and  frai]. 
 
 The  longer  I  the  lufts  of  fin  obey, 
 Againft  them  I  the  har dlier  (hall  prevail ; 
 
 Late  med'cines  of  their  cures  do  moft  what  faii^ 
 Which  would  yeeld  remedy  in  feafon  taken ; 
 The  Serpent  in  the  head,  not  in  the  tail 
 Is  quickly  kilM ;  young  twigs  are  eafily  fliaken^ 
 But  grow  hard  to  remove  when  they  deep  root  have  takeo^ 
 
 47  If  in  due  time  thou  feekeft  to  repent 
 
 By  godly  forrow  which  ne*re  comes  too  late. 
 And  thou  hels  pangs  doft  feel ;  Be  confident^ 
 Thou  art  by  Faith  in  Chrift  regenerate, 
 
 AfTure  thy  fdf,  moft  happy  is  thy  ftate  • . 
 Ifthouleaft  drop  of  y^fr^r  doft  obtain  : 
 The  danger's  paft ;  fins  ftinging  will  abate. 
 The  Spirit  of  thy  minde's  renew'd  again. 
 And  from  leaft  fcow  of  fin  hereafter  now  refrain. 
 
 E  4  ^8  Though 
 
^  o  Of  Kefentance, 
 
 48  Though  like  £//y2?/s  fcrvant,  firft  thou  fee  ».  s^ 
 Nought  but  Hoftility  thee  to  confound, 
 
 If  that  thine  eyes  with  his  once  open'd  be 
 To  look  up  to  the  Mountain  :   There  abound 
 Horfes  and  Charets  fiery  about  thee  round. 
 Cry  but  AlM.Mafter,  ^hatjhall  ^e  dt  ? 
 Lo  more  for  thee  then  there  for  them  are  found : 
 Thy  light  with  blindenefle  fo  confounds  thy  Foe, 
 Thou  maift  them  captive  leade,  and  unto  others  ftiow. 
 
 49  Thy  Groat  is  found,  which  thou  before  hadft  lofi ; 
 Thy  Sheep's  bronght  home,  that  carft  hath  gone  afiray  ; 
 Thy  dead  [on  hath  again  reccivM  his  ghofi; 
 
 The  Trodigall's  come  home  that  ran  a^aj  ; 
 Vajhtis  depofedfrom  the  Scepters fwaxy 
 And  humble  Befter  now  hath^or  her  place. 
 The  V^orks  of  darkneffe  now  are  rWV  away. 
 And  in  their  room  are  works  of  Light  and  Grace, 
 Faith  by  Repentance  (hews  us  now  Loves fmiling  face. 
 
 50  ^oj  after /orrow',  after  labour  reft. 
 And  after  Jhipwrackjhc  dcfired  Port, 
 All  men  have  fafcty :  they  difccrn  it  beft 
 
 T  hat  lately  have  efcapM  fome  eminent  hurt. 
 
 Lo,  Light  is  pleafing  unto  ev'ry  fort, 
 To  them  moft  that  in  darkeft  Dungeon  be. 
 To  pafTe  from  death  to  life,  doubtlefle  the  fport 
 Of  living :  But  *bo ve  all  the  joys  I  fee. 
 Is  when  from  wounded  Confcience,  Grace  doth  fet  us  frcc^^ 
 
 51  And  now  O  Lord,  unable  to  expreffe 
 Thy  wondrous  bounty  in  our  firft  creation ; 
 And  much  more  here  unworthy  to  confeffe 
 Thy  Love  and  Grace  in  our  frcgeneration 
 
 Begun  here  firft  in  us  by  renovation 
 And  true  Repentance ;  Lord,  now  cure  my  wound. 
 The  fting  of  confcience  by  fweet  application 
 Of  Faith  :  the  fruits  whereof  may  ftill  abound. 
 And  to  the  riches  of  thy  glorious  Grace  redound. 
 
 52  y< 
 
OJ  nepenrance,  — sr* 
 
 52  You  may  be  pleasM  with  me  to  call  to  minde, 
 '    How  when  the  humble  Lady  firft  me  broughi 
 To  Dame  Repentance^  harfli  I  her  did  finde. 
 And  (he  moft  ftrongly  on  my  confciencc  wrought, 
 Yea,though  with  tears  I  oft  her  Grace  befought. 
 That  I  might  judged  be  at  Mercies  feat. 
 She  me  by  force,  before  Dame  Juftice  brought, 
 Where  all  my  fins  and  faults  (he  did  repeat. 
 But  Faith  me  juftifi'd,  of  whom  I  next  entreat. 
 
 moi^ 
 
3^ 
 
 ,iiyji:ii: 
 
 EDITAT,    IV. 
 
 OfFaitb. 
 
 Ne  Being  that  from  all  Eternity 
 Moft  happy  is.  Wife,  Juft,  Omnipotent,    ' 
 And  from  eternity  all  things  6x^  fee,    (meant 
 As  prefent,   though  long  after  they  were 
 Of  nought  created  Air,  Fire,  Firmament, 
 With  all  the  Spirits  and  Powers  that  are  above. 
 Made  and  rcpleniflied  Earths  Continent, 
 The  Sea,  and  all  that  in  them  both  do  move, 
 AH  thefe  he  made  for  Man,  Man  him  to  ferve  and  lovr 
 
 2  Man  fure  a  Creature  was  moft  excellent. 
 Being  of  all  created  things  the  tndi^ 
 
 To  whom  that  Being  only  being  lent. 
 That  he  to*$  Makers  fervice  might  intend. 
 
 And  in  his  joyful!  Prefence  his  life  fpend  ; 
 Wherefore  he  him  in  goodlieft  Garden  placet. 
 And  one  Frnit  only  did  from  him  defend. 
 Of  which  Fruit  only  he  prefum'd  to  tafte. 
 Wherefore  God  him  for  cv'r  out  of  the  Garden  caft. 
 
 3  But  as  the  glorious  riches  of  his  grace. 
 
 Was  the  folc-moving  caufe  Man  tirft  to  make ; 
 So  gracelefle  Man  he  leaves  not  in  this  cafe, 
 But  to  repair  his  lofle,  will  undertake 
 
 A  new  work  likewife  for  his  mercies  fake  : 
 
 To  free  him  from/w/  guilt,  and  Satans  wile. 
 
 God  m\\}A^nsfleJh  ^nd guilt  upon  him  take. 
 
 And  purge  him  from  the  lin  doth  him  defile. 
 
 Thus  Satan  is  beguird  that  fought  Man  to  beguile. 
 
4.  Asmif-bellefanddifobedicnce, 
 
 CausM  Man  from  Barthlj  Sden  to  be  caft  • 
 
 So  trae  Belief  and  due  Obedience, 
 
 Caufe  him  in  heavnlj  Eden  to  be  placet : 
 And  as  on  pain  of  death  he  was  to  faft 
 
 From  one  fruit  only  ;  io  this  gracious  King 
 
 Commands  us  now,  one  only  fruit  to  tafte. 
 
 Life  to  reftore,  and  for  to  kill  Death's  fting : 
 This  fruit  is  Faith  in  Chrifi  whereof  I  next  do  fmg. 
 
 5  Thou  that  when  Man  moft  bleffed  was  created. 
 But  by  fin  fal'n  from  his  high  happinefle. 
 Thine  own  Son  fent,  that  he  regenerated 
 Might  be  ;  and  win  again  more  perfed  blefle. 
 
 Who  here  ev^'n  humbled' il  God  in  humane  flefli^ 
 [     That  thou  by  Fnith  might'ft  Man  to  thee  unite. 
 And  fafc  deliver  from  all  wretchednelTe, 
 Dired  my  Mufe  of  Faith  to  fing  aright. 
 And  grant  me  fir  ft  true  faith  before  oi  Faith  I  write. 
 
 6  Faith  is  a  wondrous  gift  of  God,  a  Grace, 
 Whereby  ch'Eled  apply  particularly 
 Chrift  right,  and  all  his  benefits  embrace  : 
 By  her  our  hofe  fubfifts  moft  certainly ; 
 
 She  (hews  us  things  unfeen  moft  evidently  : 
 Faith  of  the  Gofpel  is  a  firm  belief. 
 Whereby  Chrifts  benefits  offrcd  we  apply. 
 And  rightly  do  receive  :  So  Faith  in  brief 
 Js  a  right  application  and  a  found  belief,  -v^^vg;  -..  . 
 
 7  Faith  is  the  Bficketvj\iiQh.  hangs  on  Hopes frrinfr^ 
 Whereby  the  moft  deep  living  ^ell  we  found. 
 Which  if  the  Rope  hold  out  us  up  will  bring 
 Such  living  fVater  as  doth  there  abound. 
 
 When  Chrift  his/^-z/iW  Graces  doth  propound. 
 Faith  is  the  Hand  whereby  we  them  receive  : 
 Faith  heaieth  up  the  cleanfed  purged  wound, 
 Beginneth  where  Repentance  doth  us  leave. 
 Who  without  her  feeks  Faith,  he  doth  himfsif  deceive. 
 
 8  Faith 
 
^O  Of  Fatth, 
 
 8  Faith  as  it's  ta*ne  for  credit  or  belief. 
 
 Is  when  we  credit  give  to  God  or  Man,' 
 Thus  he  with  men  moft  Faith  hath  that  is  chief. 
 And  in  his  coffer  hide  moft  money  can  : 
 
 But  when  to  God  it  reference  hath,  we  then 
 It  ord'nAry  or  extraordinary  call. 
 By  this  we  miracles  and  wonders  can. 
 The  Ordinary  call  Hiftoricall 
 Or  juftifying  Faith  in  fome  but  remporall. 
 
 9  But  this  moft  precious  Faith  whereof  I  write. 
 And  which  I  formerly  aright  define. 
 
 The  Faith  ofGeds  BleU:  is  truly  hight. 
 
 Which  when  one  hath  doth  wholly  ne^re  decline ; 
 
 This  juftifying  faving  Faith  doth  joyn 
 Us  to  our  Bead,  and  is  the  inftrument 
 And  means  whereby  Gods  Spirit  doth  refine 
 And  purge  our  hearts  from  finflill  excrement : 
 This  Faith  doth  make  Gods  Children  bold  and  confident. 
 
 I  o  As  in  Men,  Beafis  and  Plants^  three  fouls  we  fee  , 
 
 O^  Reaf on /j  rowing,  and  the  Senjitive, 
 
 So  in  this  Chriflian  foul,  found  Faith,  there  be 
 
 Three  qualities  alike  cooperative : 
 
 And  as  in  Man  all  three  into  me  thrive. 
 
 So  in  th'Eled  both  Faith  hifioricall^ 
 
 Temforall,  and  the  true  Faith  are  alive. 
 
 And  but  ont  faving  Faith  together  all  : 
 This  Soul,  Mansform^  this  Faith  true  Chriftians  life  we  call. 
 
 X I   As  vegetation  fheweth  moft  in  Plants, 
 So  in  the  Worldlings  Faith  hiftoricall. 
 Faith  temporallinfalfe  Profeffors  hants. 
 True  Faith  upon  th'EleU:  doth  only  fall : 
 
 And  as  no  Plant  or  Beaft,  be't  great  or  fmall. 
 The  things  that  are  in  Man  right  apprehends. 
 Yet  Man  what  is  in  Beafts  and  Plants  knows  all. 
 So  thofc  two  Faith's  (which  ferve  to  other  ends) 
 
 Know  not  tr^e  faving  Faith,  -^Qtfije  both  comprehends. 
 
 12  God 
 
Cf  Faith. ' OT 
 
 12  God^uthotir  is,  and  Caufe  efficient 
 
 '  Of  e*ry  good  and  perfeft  gift  and  grace. 
 His  good  Will  moves  him  nrft  :  But  his  intent 
 And  chief  end  is  the  glory  of  his  Grace, 
 And  our  falvation  in  the  fecond  place: 
 But  when  He  in  our  fouls  doth  Faith  beget. 
 Whereby  Chrift  and  his  Merits  we  embrace, 
 A  douhk  means  he  here  on  work  doth  fet. 
 
 Inward  and  utward  whereby  faving  Faith  we  get. 
 
 13  The  outward  is  his  j^erd  and  Sacrament^ 
 
 One  works,  the  other  ftrengthens  what  is  wroughc. 
 The  inward  is  Gods  Spirit  into  us  fent. 
 Our  hearts  to  quicken,  fandifie,  make  foft. 
 
 Wherein  the  PFord  may  fown  be  as  it  ought. 
 The  (/ojpel  whereupon  ftands  Faiths  foundation. 
 Though  we  by  Law  to  fee  our  fins  are  brought, 
 As  the  School-MiftrefTe  to  Regeneration ; 
 Yet  'tis  the  Go^el  makes  us  wife  unto  falvation. 
 
 14  The  Spirit^  rao.ft-what,workethbythefr(?ri^. 
 Not,  but  without,  'tis  all-fufficicnt. 
 
 But  this  inftrudion  it  doth  us  afford, 
 That  we  in  hearing  {hould  be  diligent : 
 
 The  fvord  without  the  Spirits  enlightenment^ 
 Is  as  good  Seed  fown  on  untilled  ground. 
 That  never  brings  forth  fruit  that's  excellent. 
 For  without  Graee ,  Faith  temporary's  found. 
 And  never  doch  in  good  and  holy  works  abound. 
 
 15  Prayer  is  not  the  means  Faith  to  obtain. 
 
 But  it  prefcrves  and  ftrengthens  Faith  to  pray : 
 For  without  Faith  our  "Trajsrs  are  in  vain. 
 Yet  after  Faith  is  wrought  in  us,  we  naay 
 
 Pray  that  Faith  fails  us  not :   wherefore  I  fay, 
 Wc  muft  give  Prayer  her  due  commendation 
 For  by  her  we  difcourfe  with  God  alway. 
 And  have  with  him  familiar  converfation. 
 Though  none  can  pray  aright  before  regeneration. 
 
 16  Faith's 
 
^2  Of  ^Aith, 
 
 i6  Fairh'sYike  the  Hand,  and  Prayer  like  the  Key 
 Which  doth  th'Almighties  Coffers  open  wide. 
 Wherein  his  richeii:  freafures  lotkt  up  lie    •' 
 The  Key  unprofitably  hangs  bcfide. 
 
 Except  that  Faith  it  take  in  hand  to  guide  : 
 Likewife  the  H^W  doth  ufe  her  ftrength  in  vain 
 The  Bar  wiLhout  the  jK'fj  gainft  Wards  to  Aide : 
 Both  joynM  the  Locl^  to  open  do  conftrain, 
 
 And  us  moft  glorious  view  of  hea.v^'nly  Treafures  gain. 
 
 1 7  *Twcre  infinite  of  all  Faiths-fvuks  to  tell. 
 All  duties  towards  God,  all  charity 
 Towards  our  Neighbours,  done  aright  and  well 
 From  her  proceed :  a  holy  Mother's  (he 
 
 Of  Graces  all,  that  fandifying  be  : 
 Therefore  'tis  plain  they  want  her  that  do  drive 
 To  make  good  woi'ks  Faiths  mother,  and  do  flee 
 Unto  Saints  merits  •   For  Were  Faith  alive 
 
 In  them,  all  Piety  and  Charity  would  thrive. 
 
 i8   She's  fwiftt©  heart:  The  holy  Sacrament 
 OfBaptifm  once  ?  The  Emharifl  ofc  receives, 
 Releeves  the  poor,  in  Prayer  diligent. 
 In  which  fhe  IHII  perfifts  and  never  leaves, 
 
 Laftly,  (he  to  fome  lawfull  Calling  cleaves,. 
 To  be  'tore  God  and  Man  without  offence. 
 If  thefe  fail  in  her  (he  her  felf  deceives  j 
 She's  temporary^  and  a  falfe  pretence. 
 
 To  walk  licentiouOy  without  Obedience. 
 
 19  Other  Companions  are  of  Faith  likewife  : 
 As  grievous,  manifold,  and  great  tentation. 
 With  thek  found  faith  her  felf  mu  ft  exercife, 
 Thefe  part  not  from  her  till  fouls  feparation. 
 
 For  Satm  profecutes  with  infcftation. 
 His  hatred  to  our  /;f^^  continually. 
 Upon  his  Members  to  their  great  vexation, 
 Befides  Tentations,  true  faith  purge  and  try, 
 
 't'reparing  hearts  for  Grace  by  fweec  Humility. 
 
 30  Thefe 
 
vj  rmm.    ii 
 
 5C  Thefc  ofren  come  of  diffident  diftrufc. 
 
 When  fight  of  fm  makes  us  faint,  ftagger,  red, 
 
 Or  when  by  our  unworthinefle  and  luft,    . 
 
 W.e  of  this  precious  Faith  a  coldneffe  feel ; 
 Thefe  for  a  while  omjpiritHalUjesxx^  feel. 
 
 So  a$  true  inward  comfort^  life^  and  love 
 
 As  in  times  paft  in  him  we  cannot  feel. 
 
 Who  is  our  Head,  and  hereby  doth  us  prove. 
 And  make  us  when  we  feel  his  want  the  more  to  love. 
 
 21  Behold,  two  other  Dftfp/ on  either  hand, 
 On  right,  PrefumftioHfreud ;   on  lefty  Dsfbair  ; 
 Which  like  two  Red-Sea  wals  of  waves  do  ftand. 
 And  for  the  Faithffill2L  fair  way  prepare. 
 
 That  through  the  ^eep  they  may  ev'n  dry-fliod  fare ; 
 But  lo  !  the  mifcreant  and  prefum ptuous  wight. 
 They  drown  in  over-weening  and  much  care. 
 Here  God  againft  th'Egyptians  feems  to  fight. 
 Out  of  the  fiery  Pillar  that  to  Faith  gives  light. 
 
 22  Thefe  two  are  like  the  Cities  of  the  Plain^ 
 Gomorrha  proud,  and  Sadomhdik  in  [u9[^ 
 
 On  which  God  fire  and  brimftone  down  did  rain. 
 The  firfi  is  pharifaicalljover'-jufi. 
 
 The  other  doth  Gods  promifes  diftrufi. 
 But  Faith,  like  little  Zoar  Lot  doth  fa ve. 
 Though  unbelief  do  turn  his  Wife  to  duft, 
 Thefe  three  be  they  that  feek  Faith  to  deprave, 
 Thefc  three  fo  hinder  Faith,  (he  nothing  right  can  crave. 
 
 23  Trefumftion  proud  on  her  ov>n  merits  ftands, 
 Dejpair  looks  down  on  her  vile  wretchednefle. 
 But  never  Gods  great  goodneffe  undcrftands. 
 Nor  his  great  power,  free  grace,  and  willingnefle 
 
 To  eafe  all  thofe  whofe  fins  do  them  opprefTe  : 
 But  Infidelity  feeks  to  entice 
 To  Atheifm,  and  all  ungodlinefe. 
 And  make  Faith  folly  feem  to  worldly  wife. 
 Who  nought  beleeve,  hvaSenfe  and  iJ:(?^/c»  muft  devife, 
 
 I  "i  Dejpair 
 
^1^^  9ff  raffo. 
 
 24  Dejpatr  to  great  Goliath  I  refcmble,' 
 But  f^/^^dottiiike  to  little  BavidhTC^ 
 At  whom  though  Saul  and  all  his  Hoft  do  tremble 
 Yet  all  his  threats  bold  D^z/^^'Cannot  fcare.  '  {Hon, 
 
 He  that  hath  giV'n  the  *  Lion  and  the  a  Bear     *  Prefum- 
 Into  his  hands,  he  furely  doth  beleeve  a  infideltty. 
 
 This  ^  rdling  PhilijHm  will  never  fpare,  ^  jpeff?air. 
 
 But  will  him  unto  iikc  deftruAion  leave,     '^  "^^'o  ?i  -../. 
 ''hus  off  with  his  own  fword  David  his  head  doth  dci^ve. 
 
 15  AUmenarefickofthedifcafeoffin, 
 Which  till  'tis  paft  mans  cune,  they  not  perccire. 
 But  when  of  help  they  to  dcfpair  begin. 
 If  by  true  faith  they  unto  Chrift  can  cleave, 
 :  Their  fouls  Phyfician,   and  unto  him  leave 
 The  cure  alone,  of  his  moft  precious  bloud, 
 A  plaifter  they  to  cure  their  fore  receive ; 
 This  only  is  the  Balm  can  do  them  good. 
 
 And  not  Saints  merit s^  Pardons,  1)  irges,  woodden  Rood. 
 
 26  Faith  to  the  blinde  man  may  be  well  compared 
 That  feels  the  heat  but  cannot  fee  the  flame 
 Of  fire,- which  in  the  winter  is  prepared, 
 
 The  tyrannizing  cold  thereof  to  tame  : 
 
 Faith,  Hope,  are  like  two  men,  one  blinde,one  lame^ 
 Blinde  Hope^  \\>eak^Faith  on  (houlders  doth  fuftain, 
 Faith,  Hope  directs  her  fteps  aright  to  frame. 
 Both  labour  top  o^Zions  mount  to  gain. 
 And  both  by  mutuall  aid  their  wiihcd  end  attain, 
 
 27  Our  hearts  are  like  unto  the  parched  Land, 
 That  three  years  drought  endur'd  in  Ahabs  daies, 
 Faith  like  the  cloud  is  little  as  mans  hand, 
 
 That  in  the  end  great  ftorms  and  winde  doth  raife. 
 
 And  many  fhowers  abundantly  difplays  ; 
 Lo  then  the  Land  that  erft  was  dry  and  wafte, 
 Abundanly  her  frait  and  graffe  repays. 
 So  Faith  though  fmall  at  tirft,  yet  at  her  iaft  (  fafl. 
 
 Grows  wondrous  grcac,and  pours  down  heav'nly  (bowrs  ful 
 
 28  Faith 
 
of  Faith.  T;  6$ 
 
 28  Faith  is  like  to  a  grain  of  Muftard-feed, 
 Which  of  all  grains  at  fowing  time  is  Icaft, 
 
 But  grows  fo  high  that  Birds  therein  may  breed. 
 Yea  Fowls  of  th'air  therein  do  make  their  neft ; 
 
 She's  hke  anOken  plant  that  wrndes  infeit, 
 Which  more  'tis  (hakM  roots  fafter  in  the  ground j 
 So  more  tentations  have  true  Faith  oppreft. 
 She  ftands  more  refolutc,  fecure,  and  found ; 
 And  as  her  roots  hold  faft,  her  leaves  and  fruit  abound. 
 
 29  We  are  on  earth  like  Winde-mils  all,  whofe  grift 
 Are  works  of  Piety  and  Charity, 
 
 Our  Faith  like  Sails,  which  if  the  winde  be  whiOr, 
 And  air  calm,  do  ftand  unprofitably. 
 
 But  when  tentations  rife,  (he  inftantly 
 Sways  all  the  inward  powers  by  her  commotion. 
 To  all  the  works  of  Love  and  Piety, 
 Love  to  our  Neighbours,  to  our  God  devotion ; 
 But  i^ Faiths  Sails  do  fail,  ail  fail  in  their  true  motion. 
 
 3  o  Faith  is  our  fpirituall  Sun  in  Firmament, 
 
 Which  Clouds  may  darken,  not  put  out  her  light : 
 She  is  fweet  Oil  that  giveth  nutriment 
 Unto  our  Lamps,  us  to  dired  aright :  . 
 
 She  is  our  ftrong  Shield,  under  which  we  fight 
 Safe  and  fecure  'gainft  all  the  powers  of  Hell ; 
 Which  though  our  breaft-plate  oft  by  force  or  flight. 
 They  pierce  of  Righteoufnelje ;   Faiths  (heeld  doth  quell 
 
 Yet  all  Hels  fiery  darts,  and  Satans  force  expell. 
 
 3 1  Faith  Mortar  is  us  living  Stones  to  )oyn, 
 In  that  great  Building  to  the  corner  Stone, 
 The  Pins  and  fojnts  which  every  peece  combine 
 Into  one  goodly  Frame :   By  Faith  alone 
 
 Members  on  Earth  and  Head  in  hcav'n  is  one. 
 She  doth  efpoufe  the  Bridegroom  to  the  Bride^ 
 She  us  the  earned  of  his  Spirit  hath  (hown. 
 She  fets  us  at  the  jg^»<7;/ff  by  his  fide. 
 
 Then  Lozie  us  to  embrace,  her  Arms  doth  open  wide. 
 
 F  32  Faith 
 
66  Of  Fahk 
 
 3  2  Faich  like  is  to  the  holy  Martyr  Steven, 
 Who  when  before  the  Councell  he  did  itand 
 LookM  up  and  faw  Gods  glory  great  in  heav'n 
 And  'fefi'^  fcanding  by  on  his  right  hand ; 
 She's  like  Tohii^  Angell,  at  command 
 For  to'diredt  us  in  our  journey  right, 
 And  free  from  danger  both  by  Sea  and  Land, 
 She  doth  endue  us  with  fuch  heav'nly  iighc, 
 
 That  we  to  Friends  and  Parents  may  reftore  their  fi|?ht. 
 
 3  3  Like  Advocate,  who  not  for  private  gain 
 Pleades  for  all  iinners  to  Repentance  brought. 
 Whom  neither  fear  nor  favour  tan  reftrain 
 From  pleading,  till  our  Pardon  (he  hath  wrought : 
 
 She  never  leaves  tiJl  fhe  hath  us  brought 
 To  the  moft  glorious  happy  Court  oi:  Love, 
 Into  his  arms,  whofe  bloud  us  dearly  bouj^hr, 
 For  Faith  and  Hofe  ceafe  further  there  to  move. 
 
 Our  ftate  there  is  immutable  without  remove. 
 
 34  Faith  like  to  Mofes  out  of  Sgyft  leadcs 
 All  Ifraelites  that  under  bondage  grone, 
 Baptifeth  them  that  in  her  fooc-fleps  treads. 
 As  in  red  Sea  :  Faith  cleaves  a  ^  Rock  of  ftone,     *  Heart. 
 
 From  which  gufh  living  Waters  :  Faith  alone 
 The  hidden  Manna  makes  from  heav^'n  defcend. 
 Which  who  by  Faith  eat,  Bone  become  of  Bone, 
 Flefh  of  his  Flefli :  Faith  doth  before  us  wend 
 
 rhrough  this  worlds  wilderncfs ;  but  there  (he  makes  an  end. 
 
 \  5  Y  et  Faith  like  Mofes  doth  from  Mount  behold. 
 And  view  from  far  the  blefled  promised  Land  ^ 
 But  leaves  us  there  unto  our  *  Jofuah  bold,  *  Jefns. 
 
 T'expell  the  zAmorite  with  mighty  hand. 
 And  give  us  feifin  of  that  blefled  Land, 
 Lo  then,  Faith  to  fure  Knoyi>ledge  is  returned. 
 Then  we  in  ftate  unchangeable  do  (land, 
 Not  that  Faith^  Hope  as  ncedleffe  off  are  turn'd, 
 
 yhat  Faith  beleev'd,  and  Hoj)e  did  wait  for,  is  confirm'd. 
 
 36  Like 
 
of  Fmh.  67 
 
 36  Like  when  fome  friend  doth  promife  thee  to  give. 
 After  his  death,  a  fair  Inheritance, 
 Thou  m\x^  heleeve  and  hoj^e  whiiii  be  doth  live  : 
 But  when  his  change  thy  tor  tunes  doth  advance. 
 
 And  thou  poifell  art  of  thy  lucky  chance, 
 Lo  then  thy  firft  belief  and  hop  decreafe. 
 Thou  hold'ft  it  now  by  good  affurance  ? 
 So  when  we  Heav'n  pofTefTe,  Faith,  Hope  do  ceafej 
 It  is  our  own  for  ever,  not  a  Ferme  by  leafe. 
 
 3  7  With  thefe  examples  give  me  leave  to  fort 
 
 Saints  Monuments,  v/hich  in  worlds  wildernefle. 
 
 By  Faith  obtaining  here  a  good  report. 
 
 Are  now  arivM  at  Hav^n  of  bleffednefle  : 
 Millions  which  have  and  conftantly  profeffe. 
 
 And  for  this  Faith,  hnd^  honours,  life  do  leave. 
 
 Accounting  it  their  greateil  happinefle 
 
 They  worthy  are  not  only  to  beiecve 
 In  Chnil,  but  for  his  fake  their  lives,  goods,friends,  to  leave, 
 
 38  See  ^^r^/^^;?^,  in  whofe  mod  holy  Seed 
 All  Nations  of  the  earth  moil  happy  are,  . 
 How  Faith  did  arm  him  to  perform  a  d^Qd 
 Againft  the  promife  God  unto  him  fvvare  : 
 
 His  fon,  his  only  fon,  not  Ifaac  fpare  ? 
 See  facoi?  with  his  Maker  hand  to  hand, 
 Wreftling  to  get  a  bleiiing,  nor  dodi  care 
 To  lofe  his  limbs,  lb  firm  his  Faith  may  (tand, 
 Lo,  Faith  brings  fofefhs  bones  from  Nile  to  Holy  Land/ 
 
 39  Mofis  by  Faith  the  Red  Sea  did  divide. 
 
 So  ftruck  the  Rock  that  Waters  gafhed  out, 
 
 Cais  food  from  Heav'n  with  God  on  Mount  doth  bide      | 
 
 Full  fourty  daies :  Lo,  foJJjtia  bold  and  flout 
 
 Commands  the  Sun  to  ftand  ftill,  while  he  foughc 
 Gods  Battels  :   Lo,  Kings,  Judges,  Prophets  all. 
 By  Faich  invincible  did  never  doubt 
 Blefiings,  Rain,Hai!,  and  Food  firom  heaven  to  call, 
 With  fire  and  vengeance  on  Gods  enemies  heads  to  fall, . 
 
 F  2  4oLOj" 
 
^8  Of  Faith. 
 
 40  Lo,  Chrift  himfelf  when  he  on  earth  did  preach. 
 And  mighty  miracles  to  pafle  forth  brought. 
 What  thing  did  he  more  here  unto  us  teach 
 Then  Faith  ?  by  which  great  miracles  he  wrought, 
 
 He  that  had  Faidi  need  not  defpair  of  ought. 
 Lepers  by  Faith  are  cleans'd,  iffues  are  ftaid. 
 Blinde  fee,  Lame  walk,  the  devils  are  caft  out. 
 Her  Faith  fo  great's  grown  that  for  crums  earft  prayd. 
 That,  Be  it  as  thou  wilt,  to  her  by  Chrift  is  faid. 
 
 41  Yea,  after  that  our  Saviour  did  afcend. 
 And  had  the  promised  Comforter  down  fent. 
 
 His  Church  by  Faith  wrought  wonders  that  tranfcend : 
 Lo,  Peters  fhadow  heal'd  ev'n  as  he  went. 
 Partlcts  and  Napkins  from  Pauls  fen:, 
 Experd  ill  fpirit?,  did  Blinde  and  Lame  rcftore  : 
 Cur'd  all  difeafes  of  the  Patient : 
 So  that  th'Apoftles  by  true  Faith  did  more. 
 And  greater  miracles  then  Chrift  had  done  before. 
 
 42  I  do  bcleeve  the  world  could  not  contain 
 The  Books,  if  one  all  Monuments  iliould  write 
 Of  Saints,  which  Clouds  of  witneftes  remain 
 
 Of  Faiths  great  power,  her  glory,  grace,  and  might : 
 
 Which  though  they  laid  their  lives  down  in  this  fight ; 
 Their  glory  ever  doth  in  Heav'n  remain. 
 Where  Vidors  they  triumph  in  the  Lambs  fight. 
 And  for  their  lofTe  of  life  and  mortall  pain. 
 True  immortality  and  endleffe  pleafure  gain. 
 
 ^  3   And  though  in  thefe  laft  times  and  frozen  daics. 
 Her  force  and  vertue  feem  much  to  decline ; 
 Yet  he  that  feels  the  comfortable  rays 
 Of  her  Sun-beams  upon  his  heart  to  fhine, 
 Infalhbly  perceives  fomc  power  divine 
 In  him,  that  world  of  wonder  hath  effeded, 
 Wliich  is  both  God  and  Man  in  one  to  joyn  : 
 For  this  they  know  and  kt\  that  arc  eleded, 
 
 I  ut  Satan  blindes  the  eyes  of  thofe  that  are  rejeded. 
 
 i}4  Oh  I 
 
of  Faith.  69 
 
 44  Oh  I  what  great  wonders  worketh  Faith  within. 
 When  firft  (he  railech  by  regeneration. 
 
 And  quickneth  fouls  that  lay  long  dead  m  fin. 
 Unto  the  life  of  grace  SaKn:if  cation  ; 
 
 This/efcW  far  exceeds  our  firfi  Creation, 
 To  parie  from  darkneife  to  the  glorious  light. 
 And  liberty  of  Heirs  of  true  falvadon, 
 When  loos'd  from  Satans  bands  vjq  walk  aright. 
 And  with  this  fhield  o^ Faith  *gainft  all  our  enemies  figl 
 
 45  ^'^y  joints  do  tremble,  and  mine  heart  doth  quake, 
 When  I  Faiths  wondrous  works  begin  to  write ; 
 She  from  the  deep  of  iin  doth  me  awake. 
 
 Into  fwcet  liberty  and  glorious  light : 
 
 My  Members  that  in  fin  did  earft  delight. 
 And  worldly  lufts  fhe  maketh  to  obey, 
 Defacing  in  me  th'old  Mans  Image  quite. 
 Sins  fogs  and  mifts  of  errour  drives  away. 
 And  turns  my  night  of  grief  to  joyfull  Sun-fhine  day. 
 
 46  Like  Enoch  now  me  thinks  with  God  I  walk, 
 And  have  with  Angels  happy  converfation. 
 Like  Ahram  I  with  God  do  friendly  talk. 
 And  wreftle  by  divineft  Meditation  : 
 
 Lo,  wrapt  to  the  third  heav'n  by  contemplation, 
 I  there  fuch  joy  and  glory  bright  behold, 
 As  Peter  did  at's  Lords  Transfiguration, 
 Such  glory  bright  and  joy  cannot  be  told. 
 Faith  this  to  true  Beleevers  only  doth  unfold, 
 
 47  And  now  wich  fames,  John,  Teeter,  I  could  fay. 
 Upon  the  Mount,  '  Fis  good  Lord  to  be  here  : 
 And  wifh  our  Manfions  there  may  laft  for  aye. 
 Where  fuch  delight  and  happineffe  appear. 
 
 Where  I  like  Stevn  behold  mod  plain  and  clear 
 Heav'n  open,  and  Chrift  fit  at  Gods  right  hand  ; 
 The  glorious  Bridegroom,  longing  for  his  Dear, 
 Hierufalem  the  glory  of  the  Land, 
 The  head,  whofe  m.embers  are  in  number  like  the  Sand. 
 
 F   3  48  But 
 
Of  J*atth. 
 
 I  But  ah,  we  all,  like  Balua-.n  fond,  defire 
 
 To  Righteous  later  end  lor  to  accam, 
 
 Buc  never  here  no  live  like  c'licm  enquire ; 
 
 Buc leeic  for  Balaa^i^  honours,  gifis,  and  gain : 
 But  the'/  cha:  v.  ill  with  Chriit  in  glory  reign, 
 
 Muft  look  with  hiri  on  earth  to  bear  his  CrofTe. 
 
 The  Coward  never  honour  doth  obtain. 
 
 Who  from  his  Captain  runs  for  lite  or  ioffe, 
 \\\  ill  cornparifon  ot  Chrift  is  dung  and  drofle. 
 
 .9  Yet  I  alas  do  oft  like  Felix  fare. 
 
 Tremble  to  hear  of  juftice  and  damnation. 
 
 Or  think  Taut  mad  :  And  if  it  doth  prepare 
 
 Mine  heart  fie  for  good  tidings  of  falvation, 
 I  am  withdrawn  by  Worlds  negotiation. 
 
 To  put  it  Oil" unto  another  day, 
 
 I  ofc  Irke  like  Feter  make  great  proteftation 
 
 To  die  for  Chriil,  but  come  I  to  the  fiay, 
 [deeply  him  forfwear,  or elfe  I  run  away. 
 
 50  Yea  oft  wben  I  fome  inward  fiafnings  feel, 
 As  if  F^ilth  now  were  tp  fome  meafure  grown, 
 I  ftraightwaxcold,  faint,  totter,  nagger,  reel, 
 As  if  Faiths  feeds  were  fcarcely  in  me  fovv'n  ; 
 
 Or  I  troe  inward  comfort  nc're  had  known. 
 Nor  tailed  fpirituall  Qrace  :  yet  I  beieeve, 
 Lord  help  my  unbelief  1  Thy  power's  fhown 
 Moil  in  my  weaknefl'e  :  Lo',  d  then  me  relceve. 
 And  from  Sins  baits  and  Satraps  malice  me  reprieve. 
 
 5 1  Nor  would  I  only  covet  to  obtriin 
 
 The  iai.lifuis  glory,  and  her  Garland  wear. 
 But  if  need  be,  would  bear  my  fiiare  u:i  pain, 
 Not  thac'l  able  think  my  felf  to  bear 
 
 Thofe  grievous  torments  as  thy  Martyrs  were  ; 
 But  let  me  meafure  like  o^ Faith  receive, 
 My  body  cur;broil,  fcald,  hang,  faw,  ftarve,  fear, 
 'Tis  Gods  great  grace  we  in  him  may  beieeve. 
 But  greater  for  Chrifls  fake  unto  his  Croffe  to  cleave. 
 
 52  Why 
 
52  Why  then  (hould  I  wifh  Honour,  Wealth,  Promotion  } 
 Which  in  this  world  are  cranfi  tory,,  vain ,         ;»  :^)  .<. 
 And  in  mine  heart  no  room  leave  for  devotion,     " 
 
 Or  godlinefTe,  which  is^ the  greatefl:  gain  ? 
 
 ~  He  that  to  all  things  heedfuU  would  attain, 
 Muft  feek  Gods  Kingdom  firft  and  RighteoufneHe, 
 Lo  then  all  other  thmgs  do  come  amain. 
 But  ah  1  it  IS  my  fauk^  I  mud  confefTe, 
 To  look  on  prefent  fhews^  and  not  on  good  fucceffe. 
 
 53  My  praier  therefore  Gracious  Lord  fhall  be, 
 Encreafe  mj  Faith  :   And  as  thou  only  vi\{^ 
 J^/V/?/ faired  Lineaments  haft  made  me  fee. 
 For  which  I  praife  thee  :  Open  fo  mine  eyes. 
 
 That  feeing  I  her  worth  may  truly  prife. 
 And  for  her  fake  moft  willing  be  to  loofe 
 My  life,  and  all  this  wicked  world  defpife ; 
 And  rather  bondage  here  with  Faith  to  choofe. 
 Then  live  in  E gyps  Court  with  vain  deceitful!  fhows. 
 
 UEDU 
 
•?? -i?  •$?  4^  »$?  ♦  •??  ^  «?^  "^I*  «$»  4  •?? '^"  •!?  •$*  *!*  "^  *  ♦^  *^  ^ 
 
 M  E  D  1  T  A  T.     V. 
 
 of  Hofe. 
 
 Efentance,  Faith,  and  Ho^e  h^  graces  three. 
 Which  no  where  but  in  Ifrad  arc  known  : 
 Of  other  Vertues  fome  refemblancc  we 
 Do  findc  among  the  Hcathemwhich  are  fhown 
 To  them  by  Natures  light,  and  firft  were  Town 
 Moft  pure,  till  they  corrupted  were  with  fin. 
 But  now  they  moft  unlike  themfelves  are  grown, 
 For  till  Faith^  Hope,  them  to  reftore  begin. 
 They  glorious  Teem  without,  but  foul  and  vile  within. 
 
 2  For  though  o^ Kr/owledge^  Love,  Truth,  Patience, 
 Ridjt,  Aiercj,  Fortitude,  Hnwilitj/ , 
 Prudence,  Zeal,  Tern f  ranee,  Bour.ty,  Obedience, 
 There  do  in  them  remain  feme  memory  ; 
 
 Yet  wanting  Faith  and  Hope,  like  either  eye. 
 Their  blinded  fouls  for  to  dired  aright. 
 In  all  their  aftions  they  do  move  awry, 
 Yor  Faith  and  Hope  like  .Sun  and  Moons  clear  light, 
 
 Dire<ft  repenting  Souls  which  wander  e\(e  in  night. 
 
 3    And  though  by  reading  in  Dame  Natures  book 
 Thc'Heav'n  and  Eartii's  moft  wonderfull  creati'oq, 
 Tbev  Tpwards  to  tlieir  Maker  oft  did  look. 
 And  law  his  Pow.\^  and  Wifedomes  Declaration, 
 
 '  And  their  own  wretchednefle :  Humiliation 
 For  fin,  in  them  no  true  Repentance  wrought : 
 for  miiling  thefe  chief  Agents  of  falvation. 
 The  work  could  not  be  to  pcrfedion  brought ; 
 
 For  without  Faith  and  Hope,  Repentance  profits  nought. 
 
 4  Thou 
 
of  Bofe.  73 
 
 4  Thou  that  the  Fini(hcr  and  Authour  art 
 Of  cv'ry  good  and  pferfed  Gift  and  Grace, 
 Who  look'ft  not  on  the  work,^  but  on  the  heart. 
 Where  ev  Vy  Vertue  hold^  her  feat  and  place. 
 
 Who  lately  haft  me  guided  in  the  trace 
 Of  Faith  xh^' Mother ;  now  dired  aright 
 My  Mufe,  to  follow  on  the  Venues  chafe. 
 And  firft  id'iBop  Faiths  daughter  next  in  fight : 
 And  make  my  Hope  ftand  ftedfaft  whilft  of  Hope  I  write. 
 
 5  Hepe  is  of  things  to  come  an  expedation, 
 
 Which  God  hath  promised,  and  Faith  doth  beleeve. 
 
 For  when  th'Eled  of  their  Juftification 
 
 By  Faith  ftand  fure,  Then  Hope  doth  them  releeve 
 
 With  Patience,  to exped  till  Goddoth  give 
 All  the  good  things  which  he  hath  promifed. 
 So  that  no  crofTe  afflidion  can  them  grieve. 
 For  b  y  this  H(?/?f  th^y  ftand  affiared. 
 The  day  will  come  tlfeir  Hope  Ihall  be  aecompliflicd. 
 
 6  Som^  Faith  Hopes  Mother,  fome  her  Sifter  call, 
 Howfoe're,  betwixt  them  is  fo  near  relation, 
 Th^t  if  one  fail,  the  other  needs  muft  fall ; 
 Faith  brings  forth  Hope,  the  Anchor  of  falvation, 
 
 Buc  Faith  is  nourifhed  by  exj)efiatio/jy 
 A  rhankiuil  Daughter  to  a  blefled  ^ame. 
 Who  noiirifheth  her  Mother  in  this  fafhion. 
 And  ore  when  Faith  grows  cold,blinde,  faint,  and  lame ; 
 Hopes  breafts,  ^^urance.  Patience^  her  reftore  again, 
 
 7  A  blelTed  pa.r,  like  Naomi  and  Ruth, 
 
 Faith  doth  dTed,  and  Hope  goes  forth  to  glean. 
 Faith  fearcheth  firft,  belceves,  and  findes  the  Truth, 
 Then  Hope  at  Bca^  ktt  expeds  the  mean  : 
 
 And  though  at  firft  a  fmall  reward  (he  gain. 
 Yet  being  content  Gods  Icifure  for  to  ftay, 
 She  in  the  end  doth  to  her  Hope  attain, 
 Ruth  unto  BoAz  married  is  that  day. 
 And  now  may  Naomi  in  her  lap  obed  lay. 
 
 ^Hopc 
 
8  Bofe  is  fo  like  l^aith  and  fo  near  ofKift^ 
 
 As  hardly  we  difcern  a  difference ;  i 
 
 Taith  is  the  ground  whereon  Hofe  doth  begin  •  •' 
 
 Both  have  alike  aJfur4nce,^Pan.'?tce  - 
 
 From  the  fame  Spirit  both  have  influence. 
 Both  laving  Graces  purge  and  purifie 
 The  heart  and  fcafor^  with  obedience  : 
 Both  laft  alike :  By  both  we  our  fei ves  deny ; 
 Both  make  our  confcience  found  ;  By  both  for  Chrift  we  die, 
 
 9  But  Taith  is  firft,  for  io,  fne  is  Hofes  ground, 
 Bop  only  future  k^s^  but  Faith  things  paft  : 
 Faith  feals  our  evidence  and  makes  it  found, 
 Hope  waits  till  (he  pofTeflion  take  at  laft  : 
 
 Hofe  is  the  Helmet  that  on  th'Head  is  placet, 
 But  Faith  the  Shield  doth  all  the  body  hide. 
 And  though  out  Faith  oft  faint,  our  Hope  ftands  faft, 
 From  off  the  Shield  ful  many  a  blov^  may  Aide 
 On  Helmet :  but  there  farther  entrancf  is  deniMe. 
 
 I  o  Their  difference  I  have  fhown,  next  Hppes  defcent 
 
 I  tell :   As  of  the  ivords  imraortali  k^d 
 The  Spirit  begets  Faith^  to  give  firm  afTent 
 Unto  Gods  Promifes  :  Ev^u  fo  indeed, 
 
 That  Spirit  by  thofc  Promifes  doth  breed 
 A  lively  H&pe  :'  whofe  end  is  our  falvation. 
 And  that  we  fhall  have  all  things  which  we  need ; 
 1«  the  mean  time  we  have  our  converfation 
 By  Faith  and  Hopevikh.  Chrift  in  heav'nly  habitation. 
 
 I I  Similitudes  make  plain  and  illuftrate 
 Things  that  are  elfe  mjftcrioHS,  darl^,  obfcnre : 
 As  when  th'immortali  Workman  did  create 
 At  firft,  Man.without  help,  alone  and  pure, 
 
 He  made  him  then  a  deep  fleep  to  endures 
 And  took  ftuffe  from  him  ere  he  did  awake. 
 Of  which  he  made  for  him  a  help  moil  fure,      ' . 
 So  the  fame  Spirit  that  Faith  at  firft  ^id  make,. 
 To  n-.iike  now  Hope,Faiths  hdip,ij[on\ Faith  doth  matter  take. 
 
 12   As 
 
1 2  As  Body ,  Svirip,  Faith,  Lord,  Baftifms  one. 
 
 So  but  one  true  and  living  Uafe  we  findc  t 
 
 But  as  her  O^j^^ J  infinite  become,       ;^';    '^ 
 
 We  may  diftinguifh  her  in  different  kfnde? 
 If  heav'nlv  Objefts  be  to  her  aflign'd. 
 
 She  like  the  Obj><!it,  isCeieftiall, 
 
 If  (he  on  wo -Idiv  Objed,  fet  her  minde. 
 
 As  doth  the  Ob'jed  fne  doth  rife  or  fail, 
 Lo  then,  the  Objeft  of  our  Hofe  is  all  in  all. 
 
 13  We^op^for  thatforusin'HfavVsnoIaid, 
 We  hope  to  fee  Chr'i>!i  pkn-ioiis  Exaltation, 
 We  h'ofe  for  all  rhino's  chat  Ghrift  for  us  praid. 
 We  hope  in  Gofpe!  ih^t  brings  us  falvation, 
 
 We^o/?^  of  ali  in  Chrifi  a  reftauration  : 
 We  hep  Souls,  Bodies,  (liall  immortall  live  : 
 We  hope  to  reap  what's  (own  in  expectation. 
 The  faithfull  Pj?ftor  hofes  h\s  Flock  (hall  thrive, ' 
 
 'Taith  Author  is  of  Bofe,  but  Hofe  keeps  Faith  alive. 
 
 i4When  Faith  believes,Ho;>/  hopes  *gainft  Senfe  andRcafort, 
 i      Gods  Promife  is  her  foundeft  Argument, 
 His  leifure  to  attend,  is  her  beft  feafon, 
 Though  J^/V/?  beieeve  ""hove  Hope  fhe  is  content 
 
 To  hope ;  her  hold  is  firm  and  permanent 
 She  never  faints  but  holds  out  to  the  end. 
 She  to  encreafe  and  grow  is  diligent, 
 She*s  pure  and  clean  :  No  fhame  doth  her  attend,^ 
 By  Patience  and  Experience  (he  doth  daily  mend. 
 
 15  J'^/^^'s  like  jE//W  that  by  God  was  fent 
 EHjha  to  annoint  him  to  fucceed  : 
 Hop  like  Eli/ha,  waits  moft  diligent. 
 And  leaves  her  not,   till  fiery  Charets  leade 
 
 Faith  up  to  Heav'n  :  Then  Hope  ftaies  in  her  flead ; 
 Lo  then,  Faiths  Spirit  on  Hope  is  doubled  found. 
 And  though  by  Faith  our  Souls  on  heaven  now  feed, 
 Hope  ftill  fuftains  our  Bodies  on  the  ground. 
 
 And  waits  till  all  that  Faith  beleeves  fhe  true  have  found. 
 
 16  Yea 
 
7©  Of  Hope. 
 
 1 6  Yea  after  that  our  bodies  turn  to  duft. 
 
 It  feems  that  Hofe  ftill  with  our  fouls  remain  : 
 What  elfe  doth  mean  the  *  crying  of  the  Jufi-, 
 Which  for  GtdsiVord  lie  under  th"* Altar  flain^ 
 
 How  long  wilt  thou  (Lord)  to  avenge  refrain 
 Our  bloud,  on  thofe,  that  on  the  earth  it  fpilled  ? 
 To  whom  this  anfwer  is  returned  again. 
 They  fhould  reft,  till  the  number  was  fulfilled 
 Of  thofe  which  for  the  Word,  as  they  were,  fliould  be  killed. 
 
 1 7  Hofe's  fubjed  is  each  heart,  that  Chrfft  hath  known. 
 And  ^ere  m  glory  he  vouchfafcs  to  dwell. 
 
 She  beft  by  Objeds  is  conceived  and  fhown. 
 For  as  they  do  tranfcend,  Hope  doth  excell : 
 
 All  Gods  good  Promifcs  which  one  can  tell. 
 Her  Objeds  are,  which  if  one  right  would  reade. 
 He  muft  begin  with  that  when  Adam  fell, 
 Gods  Promife  to  the  Woman,  that  her  k^^^  (  head. 
 
 Though  Serpent  bruis'd  his  heel,  (hould  break  the  Serpents 
 
 1 8  Like  this  the  promife  was  to  y^^r^/[7^w. 
 Ail  Nations  fhould  be  bleffed  in  his  feed  : 
 And  him  that  King  of  7/r^e/ became 
 
 God  promised  one  (hould  ne*re  want  of  his  breed 
 
 To  fway  great  ^ndas  Scepter  in  his  ftead. 
 Till  Shilo  came,  who  was  his  Lord  and  Son ; 
 Son,  Z.S  his  flefh  did  from  his  Loins  proceed. 
 Lord,  as  the  God-head  m  the  flefh  did  won, 
 Thus  he  was  'David's  Chrift,  Son,  Lord,  and  yet  but  one. 
 
 i^  Lo,  God  performed  all  his  good  Promifcs 
 In  Chrift  his  fufferings,  birth, and  exaltation. 
 All  tending  to  bring  wretched  man  to  bliffe ; 
 But  now  behold  new  tidings  of  falvation. 
 
 The  Gojpel  (hews,  our  reconciliation 
 Isfiniibed,  asafter  fhallbe  (hown. 
 When  all  in  Heav'n  and  Earth  have  reftauration  : 
 What  we  belceve  and  hope  (hall  then  be  known, 
 
 Hoj)e  then  (hall  reap  in  joy  what  (he  in  tears  hath  fown, 
 
 20  Foe 
 
of  Hope.  77 
 
 20  For  as  the  promifes  that  God  had  fware. 
 In  Chrifts  firft  coming  were  accomplifhed : 
 Ev'n  fo  all  thofe  tfeat  in  the  Gofpel  are. 
 
 In  s  fecond  coming  (hall  be  finifhed : 
 
 And  fince  that  Good  to  ^Adam  promifed. 
 Was  full  four  thoufand  years  ere  confummation  5 
 Why  then  fhould  Bop  that's  thus  experienced. 
 Faint  in  lefTe  tben  two  thoufands  expedation  ? 
 Nearer  then  when  we  firft  beleevd  is  our  falvation. 
 
 2 1  Oh,  had  I  here  Hops  wondrous  memory. 
 Then  (hould  I  able  be  foon  to  make  known. 
 All's  Promifes  which  God  cannot  deny, 
 Ev'ry  of  which  Hop  doth  account  her  own. 
 
 Behold,  in  brief,  them  all  unto  thee  (hown, 
 All  Faith  beleeves,  (And  what  doth  he  diftruft  > 
 In  whom  this  little  k^i  of  Faith  is  fown) 
 All  thefc,  I  fay.  Hop  doth  together  thruft. 
 And  in  them  put§  afTured  confidence  and  truft. 
 
 22  Therefore  thefe  Vertnes  alwaies  her  attend, 
 A^urance^  Confidence^  and  Patience, 
 
 With  Perfeveranee  alwaies  to  the  end. 
 And  of  Gods  faithfulneffc  Experience ; 
 
 Thefe,  and  the  like,  are  her  moft  fure  defence 
 ""Gainft  troubles,  feoffs,  her  weakneffe,  long  delay 
 Of  many  Promifes,  which  made  long  fince 
 Are  not  accomplilhed  unto  this  dcy; 
 And  when  (he's  like  to  faint,thefe  her  refrefli  alway. 
 
 23  They  that  would  make  faithlefle  uncertainty. 
 So  ncceffary  to  attend  Hopes  train. 
 
 And  on  conjed'rall  probability 
 Lay  Hopes  foundation :  They  demonftrate  plain. 
 True  Faith  and  Hope^d  ne*re  in  them  remain : 
 And  though  like  Faith  Hope  fometimes  waver  may, 
 (As  who  can  to  a  perfednefTc  attain  ?  ) 
 Yet  Hope  encrcafing  Doubting  doth  decay, 
 Uncertainty  and  Hope  together  cannot  ftay. 
 
 r  24    No 
 
S  of  Hope. 
 
 24  No  more  then  in  the  Water  cold  and  heat 
 For  as  the  heat  all  coldnefTe  doth  expel), 
 So  Hope  all  doubting  out  of  us  doth  beat. 
 I  grant,  that  as  in  luke-warm  Water  dwell 
 
 Both  heat  and  cold,  fo  in  the  hollow  Cell 
 Of  unfound,  kike-warm  Lihertines  falfe  minde 
 ZJncerta'mty  and  Vcdv'ring  Hope  do  dwell  .- 
 But  this  no  true  and  kedtaft  Hope  we  finde, 
 Elfe  true  and  feign'd  Hope  lliould  not  differ  in  their  kinde, 
 
 25  Though  Heps  hath  many  an  open  Enemy, 
 None  wrong  her  more  then  her  familiar  Friends, 
 As  Merits,  Douhings,  falfe  Security 
 
 In  civill  honeft  dealing  ;  who  depends 
 
 On  thefe  quick-fands,  more  danger  him  attends 
 Then  if  he  fplit  on  i^tci^of  fierce  dejpair. 
 Or  to  diftruil  Gods  promifes  intends,- 
 Becaufe  fo  long  a  finilhing  tliey  are  : 
 Civil  defeotio?;-  hazards  more  then  open  War, 
 
 26  Oh  I  who  can  point  out  all  the  fubtiiti^s 
 Satan  doth  ufe  this  Lady  to  depofe  ; 
 How  he  all  worldly  Objeds  doth  devife. 
 That  llie  may  in  them  confidence  rcpofe ; 
 
 And  thereby  n.ay  her  heav'nly  Objed  lofe  > 
 Who  are  more  miferabh,  Satan  faies. 
 Then  thole  on  thmgs  to  come  their  Hopes  repofe  ? 
 And  who  live  longer  and  more  joy  full  daies. 
 Then  they  whofe  Hope  on  wealth  and  Princes  favours  ftaies  ? 
 
 27  As  Jews  two  Theeves  did  hang  on  either  hand, 
 Whenas  they  crucifi'd  ihe  Lord  of  Life, 
 
 So  two  extremes  on  either  fide  Hroe  it:a.nds^ 
 And  both  of  them  hav  each  with  other  itrife : 
 
 On  left  hand  ftands  Dejpair  with  bloudy  knife. 
 On  right  PrejHn^pti^n  bold  doth  over-ween. 
 Hcpe  oftentimes  may  lave  Delptiirers  lii:e  ; 
 Prtffimption  rails,  and  thinketh  in  her  fpieen. 
 If  Hope  could  others  fave,  (he  would  be  livelier  feen. 
 
 28  Hope 
 
28  Bofe  is  like  facoh  that  went  out  but  poor. 
 Yet  free  from  danger  unto  ^rams  Land  ; 
 
 But  when  he  doth  return  with  Wives  and  (tore, 
 X^^^w  purfues  behinde  ;  5f^«  with  band 
 
 Of  full  four  hundred  doth  before  him  {land : 
 But  Angels  as  Companions  him  attend. 
 And  ev'n  with  God  he  wreftles  hand  to  hand. 
 Who  doth  from  churiiih  Lahan  him  defend. 
 Nor  fuffers  cruell  S/au  facoi?  to  offend. 
 
 29  So  when  onr  Hope,  alas,  is  faint  and  poor, 
 
 Jt  forward  walks  molt  free  from  all  tentation  : 
 But  when  it  gets  fome  ftrength,  Dejpair  before, 
 Behinde,  Prefumpioti  feeks  our  fupplantation, 
 
 Lo  then  Gods  promifes  of  our  falvation, 
 Like  Angels  are  to  comfort  us  at  hand. 
 We  wreitie  with  the  Spirit  by  fupplication. 
 Whereby  we  are  inabled  to  withlland 
 De/pair,  Prefumftionfrotid,  and  all  the  devils  band. 
 
 20  Men  in  this  world  are  like  to  Ships  at  Sea, 
 
 Which  ftorms  have  beaten  and  the  waves  have  rofl. 
 That  when  they  come  to  harbour  in  the  Lea, 
 Caft  Anchor  out :  where  if  they  finde  the  coaft 
 
 Confift  of*  quick-fands,  all  their  labour's  loft ;  *  Mem 
 Lo,  then  Hops  Anchor  there  can  get  no  hold ,  msnts,  \ 
 So  they  with  ftorms  and  waves  again  are  toft  :  I 
 
 But  if  they  finde  firm  Land,  ihen  they  grow  bold,    (hold. 
 
 No  winde,ftorms,  waves,  can  beat  them  firom  their  Anchor- 
 
 3 1   Pdth  as  the  Sun,  and  Hop  is  as  the  Moon, 
 j  In  Heav'n  both  glorious  Lamps  this  World  to  light, 
 \    So  in  mans  foul  Paith,  Hope,  like  two  lights  (hone, 
 '^     Their  little  world  towards  blifle  to  guide  aright. 
 
 As  Moon  doth  borrow  from  Suns  glorious  light. 
 So  Hope  from  Paith :  And  as  when  Sun  to  fhine 
 On  Moon  forbears,  (he's  fcarce  difcern'd  by  fight ; 
 So  when  Hope  wants  Faiths  glorious  light  divine. 
 She  waniis  like  Moon,  and  all  her  beauty  doih  decline,' 
 
 ^^]  2  Hope 
 
bo  ^^^  Ofriif^e. 
 
 3  2  Hope  (ignifies  a  conftanc  expedadon 
 Of  Tome  good  thing  to  come,  from  fuch  a  one 
 Of  whofe  Love,  PowV,  and  Truth  a  firm  pcrfwafion 
 We  have,that  all  we  wait  for  lliall  be  done  : 
 
 Lo,  firit  hope  only  is  or  things  to  come. 
 It  is  no  hops  to  hope  for  things  we  fee  : 
 Next  in  her  {t\):hope  confidence  hath  none, 
 Laft,  all  our  hope  and  refuge  is  to  flee 
 
 Unto  Gods  grace,  pow'r,  wiledom,  truth,  which  certain  be. 
 
 3  3  Here  in  examples  may  my  Mufe  tranfcend  : 
 For  whatfoever  thing?  are  writ  of  old. 
 Are  for  our  learning  and  inftrudion  pen'd. 
 That  we  through  Patience  comfort  may  behold 
 In  Scriptures  :  And  have  hope  for  to  lay  hold 
 On  ail  Gods  Promifes  and  Dealing  kinde. 
 By  him  to  our  Forefathers  (liew'd  of  old. 
 And  thofe  which  to  our  own  times  are  ailigtiM, 
 
 Laft  of  all,  thofe  which  we  within  our  felves  do  finde. 
 
 34  Thefe  three  may  breed  in  us  experience. 
 Experience  hope,  Hope  maketh  not  afhamM; 
 Lo  firft  th'  examples  all  have  reference 
 To  hope,  which  I  in  Faiths  Difcourfc  have  namM, 
 
 Kings  Prophets,  Judges,  Martyrs  all  enflam'd 
 With  Love,  in  hope  and  Faith  moft  firm  do  ft  and  ; 
 Without  the  one,  the  other  may  be  blam'd. 
 Both  able  are  Hels  malice  to  withftand. 
 
 For  if  one  faints  the  other  lends  her  helping  hand. 
 
 3  5  Thcfc  prefi  dents  o^ Gods  grace,  Faith^  Truth,  Love, 
 Pow'r,  IVifedom,  Prudence,  and  dealing  kinde 
 With  thofe  that  truft  in  him,  us  well  may  move 
 Unto  a  ftedfaft  hope ;  which  if  we  finde 
 
 Within  the  fecret  Clofet  of  our  minde. 
 It  is  the  earneft  that  to  us  doth  prove. 
 Here  all  things  needfull  fhall  be  us  aflign'd, 
 And  we  fhall  have  hopes  end^  ev'n  Heaven  above. 
 
 Where  Faith  and  Hope  (hall  lea^e  us  in  the  arms  oiLove.  .    ^ 
 
 36  But 
 
OtEofe,  Si 
 
 36  ^MtFaith^nd  Hop^  imp  I  kit  ^genera//, 
 Brings  us  not  to  this  blefled  Habitation  : 
 It  muft  be  inward,  lively yjpir it uall. 
 With  true  particular  right  application 
 
 Of  ail  Chrifts  merits  wrought  for  our  falvation  : 
 Elfe  With  tintempered  mortar:  ftones  we  ky, 
 And  build  upon  Urifound  and  weak  foundation  ; 
 Fie  on  the  ChrksiX^^t  fo  abaft: UJe  Laj, 
 (They  underftand  not  what  they  hopeyheUeyey  Otfraj. , 
 
 37  Which  thus  would  feal  up  ail  in  ignorance. 
 That  they  might  feal  their  ?a.rdons  unto  all  ^ 
 Thus  they  their  ftate  do  mightily  advance^^ 
 By  binding  or  by  loofing  them  that  fall  : 
 
 Mortall  ojfefjces  2ii\dfins  vemally 
 Differ  not  in  their  nature  but  thgi;-  poj/;  :..„.. 
 As  fens  abound  their  Afarkets  rife  and  fail  ^ 
 So  wide  to  Heav'n  they  open  now  the  way. 
 That  lo^  the  richeft  men  with  moll  cafe  enter  may. 
 
 38  The  rclliih  and  true  tafte  01  Faith  and  Hope^ 
 They  turn  to  ignorance  ^wdfuperfeltion  : 
 Gods  Written  Word  to  Decretals  of  Pope 
 Muft  now  give  place  and  to  his  vain  tradition. 
 
 Their  inrpard  Hope  is  honour,  weakh,  ambition. 
 And  how  they  may  all  earthly  Kingdoms  fway  ^ 
 EmpVours  and  Kings  to  them  muft  yeeld  fubmiffionj 
 Elfe  they  their  Subjeds  licence  them  to  flay. 
 Thus  Teters  Keys  like  Swords,  cut  ail  out  of  their  way. 
 
 39  How  do  thefe  foul  flagitious  crying  fins 
 Tranfport  my  Mufe  from  holy  Meditation, 
 Which  erft  in  Hope  above  the  Scraphiws, 
 
 Took  f^^eet  deliglit  m  heav  'nly  Conremphtion  V  ;  j 
 
 (Hath  fhe  too  long  ftaid  in  this  deviation  >}  >v 
 
 To  end  with  hope  fhe  now  returns  again, 
 To  heav 'nly  hope,  and  glorious  expechation , 
 Which  firm  and  lledfatl:  ever  fh^ll  remain. 
 Till  her  in  Lovts  high  Coart  her  Saviour  entcrtair 
 
82  OfHfipf. 
 
 4j  0  Oh  theu  that  art  of  Faith  and  hope  the  Spring, 
 I  bleffe  thy  Name  for  this  ftvect  Meditation, 
 This  light  of  hope  which  thou  to  me  doft  bring. 
 Oh  let  true  Faith  dircd  my  Supplication 
 
 Unto  my  hope  this  holy  Habitation, 
 That  Port  of  blifle  purchased  by  thine  own  bl#ttd^ 
 Spent  on  tht  Croflc  to  finifti  our  fatvation : 
 This  is  my  hope,  this  is  ihy  heav'nly  Food, 
 
 O:  this  fair  hofe  to  reft,  I  hold  my  chiefeft  good. 
 
 '.b^0(3;::' 
 
 TH 
 
 ■■s5  l. 
 
THE    BR  I DE  S 
 
 ORNAMENTS. 
 
 The  Second  ^oo^ 
 
 M 
 
 E  D  I  T  A  T. 
 
 I. 
 
 of  ^uftici  and  Right eBufrUJfti 
 
 ^Hcn  firft  €jods  moving  Sfirit  forth  had  brought 
 Beafis^  i^mi,  tifi,  creeping  things  after  thci!^ 
 
 kinde: 
 to,  then  He  Man  in  his  own  Image  wrought^ 
 And  him  a  Rnler  over  all  affign'd^ 
 Writing  within  the  Tablet  of  his  Minde 
 His  Law  which  (hould  eternally  endure. 
 And  all  the  Creatures  in  Obedience  binde 
 To  Man  their  King,  and  knit  his  heart  as  fure 
 To  King  of  Kings.  This  Law  was  nafuraU^nAfHre^ 
 
 2  Here  firft  tke  right  of  Soveraisaty  began. 
 All  fubjeft  to  the  Monarchy  of  one, 
 For  every  Creature  fubjed  is  to  Man, 
 While  he  is  fubjed  unto  God  alone. 
 
 This  Monarch  now  is  fcated  in  his  Throne, 
 And  the  whole  world  doth  with  his  Scepter  fway : 
 Here's  the  firft  prelident  that  e're  was  known 
 Of  government.  From  hence  lo.  Princes  may 
 
 tcarn  rightly  how  to  mle^  and  Suhje^s  to  obej. 
 
 G  a  ^  Thus 
 
84  Of  ft^Jtice  dndReghteoufnefs, 
 
 3  Thus  Mail  of  i\\\i great  >^'orld  the  lutle  King^ 
 To  (hew  his  Soveraigjuj  gave  all  a  Name,  '. 
 And  they  their  Lord  as  Subjeftsrev'rencing, 
 True  Vaffals  to  this  little  King  became  : 
 
 Yet  Man  in  honour, could  not  hold  che  fame. 
 But  did  become  rude,  difobedient :      '' 
 Breaking  that  Law^  he  merits  hell,  -death,  ftiape : 
 When  he  offends  that  hath  the  Regfmenr,  ' 
 His  double  iin  deferves  a  double  puniilimenc. 
 
 4  Befides  th'eternall  Law  which  in  the  heart 
 O^  Adam  God  had  wrote  with  his  own  Hand, 
 He  did  one  precept  unto  him  impart, 
 IndifFrent,  till  againft  the  Lords  command. 
 
 Of  all  the  Trees  that  in  the  Garden  (land. 
 From  one,  on  pain  of  death  he  muft  refrain. 
 Laws  made  wc  may  not  queftion  or  withftand  : 
 Who  breaks  them,  bears  the  forfeit  of  th^e  pain  ; 
 When  Rulers  ceafe  to  punifti  Vice,  they/w  ni^iitain. 
 
 5  Thou  that  the  hearts  of  all  Men  doft  difpdfe. 
 Of  Kings  to  rule,  and  Subjeds  to  obey. 
 From  whom  all  Power  proceeds  to  binde  ind  lofc,       J 
 Who  humble  men  in  judgement  guideft  aye ; 
 
 Thou  fudge  of  all  the  world,  dircd,  Ipray, 
 Thy  humble  Servant  to  difcern  aright '  ^5  *•'*  'v  ' 
 Of  Jufike,  that  I  her  delineate  may     -'■  ^  "^^ '"* 
 In  her  true  ihapeunto  the  Peoples  fight,     '» 
 That  teaching  Lmay  learn  and  pradife  to  do  right.  x 
 
 6  She  IS  3,  cofiftayjt2indperfetmllfVi/l,  :      :•  ^ 
 Thzt  gives  to  every  Man  what  is  nis  right  i 
 Firfl/rff/ro?»  T^y^o^f,  (he -continues  ftill 
 Conftant  in  her  dilpofing  things  aright.' 
 
 In  aHion  next  (he  taketb  mofi  delight^      > 
 And  not  alone  in  id/ejp^^lat^o??^  ^        '  - ' 
 Tlicre's  no  refped  ot  peftWiS  in  hcriight, 
 The  fame  to  all  without  vain  alteration. 
 For  law's  the  Rf<k  and  Square  o^  her  adnunifi ration.        ^ 
 
of  fuftice  and  Right e OH fne^e.  c  S 
 
 7  jHflice  the  Virtue,  Layv's  the  Rule  and  Square, 
 Whereby  we  truly  ^ufiice  exercife  : 
 Wherefore  if  in  the  ahftraB  you  declare    . 
 Laws  Nature,  (he's  ferfetuall,  conftant,  W'ife^ 
 
 And  fo  doth  with  her  Authour  fympathize, 
 But  if  you  view  her  in  the  concrete  would. 
 She  varies  as  the  Subjed:  her  employs. 
 Then  blame  not  Laws  when  wrong  we  do  behold. 
 It  comes  from  Man  that's  made  of  corruptible  mold^ 
 
 8  As  when  pure  mne  in  putrid  Fefe/lput^ 
 Becomes  unwhcijhnc ,  rank^,  unfavoury. 
 The  fault's  not  in  the  wine,  but  in  the  Butr^ 
 Which  doth  the  fweetnefle  of  the  pvine  deftroy  : 
 
 Ev'n  fo  it  fares  with  Law  and  Equity, 
 In  their  own  nature  they  are  perfeH:,  pure. 
 But  if  in  Sul>jeds  of  Iniquity 
 They  are  contained,  they  cannot  fo  endure, 
 But  like  the  Subjeci  they  become  corrupt,  impure. 
 
 9  Three  kindes  of  Laws  from  God  I  do  obferve ; 
 Morall,  Judiciall,  Ceremonia/i, 
 
 Which  tnree  the  fews  did  conftantly  prefervc. 
 As  bound  in  conlcience  to  obey  them  all. 
 
 The  Ceremonia/i a.nd  fudicia/l, 
 Ceafe,  but  remain  paterns  for  imitation  ; 
 The  MoraIl'\s  the  fame  perpetuall. 
 That  moft  pure  Law  which  from  Mans  firft  creation, 
 Continues  ftill  to  us  without  leaft  alteration. 
 
 1 0  And  though  the  Rule  of  Right,  now  doth  not  tie 
 To  the  Judiciall  Laws  ftrid  obfervation. 
 
 Yet  it  doth  binde  us  to  the  equity 
 Thereof  (  as  fitteft  for  our  imitation  :) 
 
 Though  Biajphemy ,  Theft,  Murder^  Fornication^ 
 Have  not  amongft  us  now  the  puniihment 
 Which  Jews  inflided  by  Gods  ordination ; 
 Yet  'tis  a  Rule  in  all  good  government, 
 j  The  pain  unto  the  fin  muft  be  equivalent. 
 
 G  I  nAs 
 
8  6-  of  Jufike  and  RighteoHfnefs. 
 
 1 1  As  Laws,  Rifht  to  maintain,  and  wrong  rcdrc/Jc 
 
 Should  be  conformM  to  lite  )^W>W.-z//,  ' 
 
 So  rule5  o^ order  and  o^comelifteffe, 
 Oughi:  imitate  Z/^m^j  Ceremcniafl : 
 
 T  he  Morall  Law  (by  fome  cai'd  NatHrall) 
 Js  Gods  eterKall  Law^   by  which  above 
 He  things  in  Heav'n  and  Rarth  difpofcth  alJ. 
 Thefe  God  ingravM  in  Stone  the  Jews  to  prove. 
 But  in  our  hearts  they  all  now  written  are  by  love. 
 
 12  Miftakc  me  not  that  I  maintain  hereby 
 
 Grojfe  J^daifm,  or  oHtzWorn  rndiment. 
 
 Which  Chrifts  laft  Sacrifice  did  typifie, 
 
 (Such  Ceremonies  long  ago  are  fpcnt) 
 
 But  thofe  whereby  we  (hould  our  felves  prcfent 
 
 In  publique  Preaching,  Sacraments,  Pevotions, 
 
 ]  t  well  becomes  us  all  with  one  confenc. 
 
 To  imitate  without  ftrife  or  commotions, 
 'Tis  fin  to  difobey  Laws  in  indifferent  motions, 
 
 1 3  I  know  full  well  there  is  a  Law  befide 
 
 Thij  Merall  Law , which  fome  call  NatHrall, 
 
 Which  under  God  by  Nature  is  impli'd 
 
 To  rule  Hcav'ns  Spheres  and  Motions,which  they  call 
 
 The  Law  of  Nature  j   By  which  rife  and  fall 
 Sun,  Moon,  and  Stars,  in  Motion  necefTary, 
 But  from  the  Law  of  Reafon,  whereby  r11 
 That  Reafon  have  arc  Agents  voiuntarj. 
 By  fome  calM  Reafons  Law,  my  Mufe  now  will  not  vary. 
 
 14  From  hence  as  from  a  iV«y/^ry,  do  come 
 Ail  Laws,  which  by  good  Chriftiav  Polity 
 And  lawfall  Power  to  us  as  bonds  become. 
 To  keep  us  in  the  bafvdsof  Charity ^ 
 
 And  ns  prefer ve  from  wrot:g  and  injury. 
 And  not  by  others  loffe  to  raife  otir  gain, 
 But  leade  our  lives  in  Trnth  and  Honeflj, 
 As  not  enough  from  evil  to  reftrain. 
 Except  we  good  perform,  and  others  right  maintain. 
 
 ■        '        '  U  (E\* 
 
1 5  (Ev*n  as  we  fee  things  wanting  life  and  fenfe, 
 
 (But  Agents  naturall)  ftrive  to  maintain 
 
 The  prcfervation  of  the  coEamon  Ens, 
 
 And  'gainft  their  naturall  courfe  thcmfelvcs  conftrain, 
 Ev'n  Motions  againft  Nature  do  darraign, 
 
 As  heavy  ftones  will  up  fiom  Center  fly. 
 
 Rather  then  ^\i  a  Vamum  entertain, 
 
 So  reafonable  men  (kouU  rather  die. 
 Then  fuffer  any  \\ZXM  to  Vniverfitji . ) 
 
 \6  And  hence  comes  Layps  of  Nations,  which  maintain 
 
 LeagHCs  betwixt  princes.  Freedom^  StrvitHdiy 
 
 Next  civil  Law,  whofe  equity  did  gain 
 
 Command  of  all  Romes  Empires  amplitude : 
 'Xht  Canon  Law,  whofe  wifedom  did  conclude 
 
 All  other  Laws,  till  Pridg  and  St^ferftition 
 
 Amongft  ihok  facred  Sanctons  did  intrude. 
 
 So  Antichrifiiani^ing  by  ambition, 
 That  holj  iFrit  muft  now  give  place  to  vain  Tradition. 
 
 17  Thus  Statutes  of  each  Conntrej,  City, Land, 
 Which  they  themfelves  do  call  Mmicifall, 
 All  Laws  which  now  in  force  with  us  do  ftand. 
 The  Common^  Civil,  Scclejiafiicall, 
 
 All  thefe  do  come  from  the  pure  naturall. 
 And  tend  true  Righi  and  fuflice  to  maintain, 
 Refpefting  Gods  trac  worfhip  firft  of  all 
 Next  Magi^rates,  peace  pukUke,  common  gain^ 
 And  laft  that  each  man  may  in  peace  his  own  retain. 
 
 18  But  as  from  Joit^w/^j^  fcated  on  a  Hill, 
 Vmt^  filver  ftr earns  in  fundry  Channels  flow, 
 Firft  clear  like  Spring  from  which  their  waters  rill. 
 But  pafTing  farther  tliick  and  miry  grow, 
 
 (Defiled  by  their  Channels  foil  below) 
 Ev'n  fo,  all  Laws  which  from  th'Eternall  come, 
 Firft  lik^  the  patent  are,  as  pure  as  fnow, 
 But  do  in  time  corrupt  and  bafe  become,  (  run. 
 
 By  Mans  corruptcd^beart,  throiigh  which  lawsfireams  doe 
 
 G  4  19  Onv 
 
T^T^  Of  ffljtice  and\RlghteoHfneJs. 
 
 Peculiar  is  to  Providence  Divine^  ' ' 
 
 1  roni  wliCncc  it  comes  that  many  a  wholfbrne  Larp       ' 
 From  e-vil  mariners  feems  to  draw  her  Line ; 
 
 But  they  no  caufe?  arc ;   For  Power  Divine 
 Is  the  firft  Caufe  of  Jt^fiice  and  of  Right , 
 Ev'n  as  the  Sptn  which  givech  pow'r  to  (liine 
 To  all  the  glorious  Lajnfs  we  fee  by  nighr. 
 Though  dArknefs  feem  the  caufe  of  their  pure  twinkling  light' 
 
 20  Yet  as  the  Sun  the  Fount ain  of  all  Light,  ,  " 
 Doth  ot  his  heams  to  all  thofe  Planets  leiid, 
 
 Which  in  the  abfence  of  the  Sun  by  night 
 Dired  ail  Travellers  un"o  their  end  • 
 
 So  Right eom  God  fuch  'Right ecptfneffe  doth  lend 
 To  Ki,?gs  and  Rulers  all  that  judge  below, 
 That  they  may  Right  and  Juftice  true  extend. 
 And  in  Gods  ftead  both  Light  and  Guidance  fhow 
 To  Men,  which  elfe  to  all  olrHquitj  would  grow. 
 
 2 1  At  firft  when  Kings  and  Princes  gan  to  fway. 
 And  that  np  Laws  as  yet  were  on  record. 
 
 All  did  their  Princes  will  and  minde  obey. 
 
 And  the  whole  Law  came  from  the  Princes  word  : 
 
 Law  therefore  Kings  this  Title  doth  afford. 
 And  itiles  them  living  Laws  by  grace  Divine ^ 
 Sent  unro  Men  to  be  their  Liege  and  Lord, 
 With  power  to  make  new  Laws  and  old  define. 
 The  Bead',  which  Members  ail  m  politique  hodj  joyn. 
 
 2Z  Thus  Cod  firfl  gives  Kings  power  Laws  to  ordain. 
 Which  Kings  unto  their  Judges  delegate ; 
 By  their  Larvs,  Right  and  fufiice  to  maintain  : 
 All  Power  from  God  doth  firft  bepin  her  date, 
 
 Aid  therefore  all  ought  him  to  imitate, 
 Ai.d  thereby  to  do  write,  and  wrong  redrefle ; 
 Not  only  to  encreafe  their  own  eftate, 
 Arr'  ^'v^  in  P.'.-ntj^  Pride,  and  wantonncfie, 
 
 ■viaH^  God  caufe  of  our  m'rigkfeoufnejfe. 
 
 23  So 
 
OfJufllceandRi^htecHfKcfs.  %^ 
 
 23  So  we  abufe  the  ToTT^r' God  doth  ^iV€i;'\  ;_  -  •  "^ 
 "ItoPleafum,  Pride,  Vmghncufnepy^  ^^h 
 As  if  we  only  to  our  felvefe Hid  live,  ■  ^"  ••'  ~  •             '  -^  iV; 
 When  Judgiment  only  dbth  to  God  belo'fig,  ; 
 
 Who  ev'n  the  Kings  and  Judges  fits  dia^hg^ 
 To  do  the  Orphan  and  cheWiddow  righfj  ^  '-'^ 
 
 To  break  delays'that  eiients  fuits  prolong, 
 Nor  fuffering  Right  to  be  born  down  by  Might, 
 But  truly  firft  difcer^i  and  then^roceed  aright. 
 
 24  Thcfe  true  effeEls  0^ righteous  Caufes  are 
 Like  God,  firft  caufe  ot  fnftice^  to  proceed. 
 Who  puUeth  down  the  Mighty  from  his  chair; 
 
 And  fets  the  A^eekjitid  Humble  in  his  ftead;  '-^^ 
 
 Lo,  JuHice  hath  a  Sword  to  make  fin  bleed. 
 As  well  as  Scepter  for  to  rule  in  Peace  ; 
 Befi  des  our /owing  we  m.u  ft  al  fo  W-'eed, 
 If  we  expect  a  plentifull  encreafe. 
 So  long  as  Vice  grows  ftrong,  the  Sword  mu(k  never  ceafe. 
 
 25  *  Six  feveral  Serjeants  wait  on  fnfiice  Throne,  *  Omne  /as 
 Which  (he  in  fcverall  duties  doth  employ  ;  ^"^  mdpit, 
 By/r/,  (he  doth  command  things  to  be  done:  ^""^j^"^'' 
 hyfecond,  puniflieth  what's  done  awry  :  tonfuUt,  \ut 
 
 The  third  forbids;the/o/^n^/7  gives  leave  to  try:  bonaiur, 
 Iht  fifth  exhorts ;  laft  doth  the  right  advife  : 
 All  thefe  refped  have  to  lifes  honefty, 
 And  that  no  hurt  ^gainft  others  we  devife,  - 
 Laftiy,  things  that  ate  due  to  every  man  to  fize. 
 
 g 
 
 26  As  manyas  are  Enemies  to  Pf^rf, 
 PHhlicjue  or  frivate  are  her  Enemies : 
 
 For  whereas  Z)(/r<?>'^,  wars,  and  Strife  encreafe. 
 There  follow  V/rong,  Revenge,  and  InjpCries  ; 
 
 And  though  forp.e  over-vainly  do  advife 
 Brave  Spirits  to  bloudy  wars  to  purchafe  Fame, 
 Yet  who  fo  undertakes  fuch  enterprife, 
 UnletTe  it  be  for  Peace  in  "^ufiice  name, 
 By  (bedding  guiklefTe  bloud  deferves  etcrnall  blame. 
 
 37  There- 
 
90  Of  fuftice  md  Right  eoufntfs] 
 
 27  Therefore  the  TWate  juftly  did  retort 
 
 Reproach  of  Thief  to  *  Grecian  Monarch*  s  fliamc,  '^AUh* 
 Who  the  whole  world  fought  to  fubduc  by  tort,       andifl-. 
 To  purchafe  proud  vain-glory  to  his  name, 
 Affuring  him  he  was  as  much  too  blame 
 To  rob  by  Lmd^  as  he  on  Sen  to  pill. 
 The  Monarch  wronged  all  for  idle  Fume : 
 The  Pir4t^  for  his^^*«  did  rob  and  kill ; 
 Each  *gainft  the  rule  oi Right  by  force  maintained  his  will. 
 
 28  Some  great  Ones  glory  like  to  Pikes  in  Pond, 
 All  other  under  Fiftes  to  devour. 
 
 That  they  alone  inherit  may  the  Lond, 
 And  all  the  world  fubdue  unto  their  power. 
 As  never  thinking  of  their  lateft  hower. 
 When  as  they  came  they  muft  return  again. 
 Why  (hould  the  Highefl  on  the  L^Tveft  lower  ? 
 The  greatefi  Prince  the  meanefi  Slave  difdain  } 
 Both  born  alike,  breath,  die,  and  in  their  grave  remain. 
 
 29  Befidcs,  Vice  oft  in  Vertues  (hape  appears : 
 Injuftice  under  Mercies  name  doth  go ; 
 Therefore  muft  Judges  not  be  mov'd  with  tears 
 Of  finners  in  calamity  and  wo  : 
 
 Rulers  in  Difcipline  may  Mercy  (how, 
 And  Meekneflc,  fo  they  leave  not  loofely  light 
 
 **  The  rains  unto  Offenders,  ill  to  do  ; 
 
 Whom  Fear,  not  Love,  from  doing  hurt  doth  fright. 
 
 For  hope  of  pardon  deth  lewd  mindes  to  finne  invite. 
 
 3  o  Therefore  let  Judges  Grace  and  Pity  ftioir, 
 
 In  pardoning  their  private  injuries : 
 
 But  for  offeoces  publique  let  them  know, 
 
 They  there  cv'n  Gods  own  Judgement  exercife. 
 The  ancient  Rowans  wifely  did  devife 
 
 To  punifli  facil  Judges  with  that  pain. 
 
 Which  Law  againft  Offenders  did  dcvifc. 
 
 Thus  wifely  foolifh  pity  to  reftrain. 
 For  that  fevere  uprightneffc  Pw^  did  bcft  maintain.' 
 
 '  31  As 
 
of  fftfike  and  RighuoHfneft.  $1 
 
 ;i  As  in  each  Market  Town  and  common  il/^i'f. 
 There  is  of  ^yeights  and  uMeafures  but  one  V\ ze. 
 And  Standard,  which  true  right  to  all  doth  part. 
 And  freight  and  Meafure  juftly  doth  coraprife ; 
 
 Ev'n  fo  in  this  ivorlds  Market  men  devife 
 One  Law  to  meatc  out  ev'ry  Man  his  due. 
 And  by  that  La-w  the  Jndges  ought  affifc  i 
 
 All  their  Decrees  and  Judgements  juft  and  trew. 
 And  not  in  ftead  oiLavps  to  broach  Ofiniotts  new. 
 
 32  But  as  in  Man  mefofil  and  hodj  finde. 
 So  Laws  confift  o( Letter  and  true  i^f »/f ; 
 And  as  the  body  place  gives  to  the  minde. 
 So  the  Laws  Letter  with  Obedience, 
 
 To  the  true  Senfe  and  Soul  of  Law  confents. 
 Who  Letter  of  the  Law  feck  to  maintain. 
 And  leave  ker  ntinde  and  meanings  excellence. 
 Are  like  them  that  their  bodies  good  to  gain. 
 
 Both  Soul  and  Body  hazard  to  eternall  pain. 
 
 3  3  Some  Painters  Juflice  without  ejes  deferibc,  "^ 
 
 That  (he  might  know  no  man  in  doing  right ; 
 Some  without  hands,  that  (he  may  take  no  Bribe ; 
 Some  without /Jofj^f/,  that  mz}^  gifts  invite : 
 
 "^Qt  gifts  of  wifeft  men  do  blinde  the  fight. 
 And  words  cv'n  of  the  Righteous  do  pervert. 
 Making  them  wrctt  the  Law^  and  take  delight 
 In  hafe  rewards,  which  do  corrupt  the  Heart, 
 
 Which  being  once  amiflc  doth  all  the  reft  divert. 
 
 34  But  v^in  it  is  to  think  by  likelinefTe 
 Of  earthly  things  to  type  out  things  Divine, 
 Since  none  her  beav'nly  Nature  can  expreffe. 
 But  who  the  God-head  can  aright  define. 
 
 O  let  the  Sun  of  Righteoufneffethen  ihinc 
 Upon  my  blinded  heart  with  brighteft  rayes. 
 Which  may  dired  me  by  her  righteous  Line^ 
 To  levell  out  and  fquare  aright  my  waics. 
 
 By  Righteoufncffe  divine  and  her  pure  ihining  Rays. 
 
 35  Yet 
 
gi*  of}fffiice  and  Right  eonfmfs. 
 
 3  5  Yet  Rigkeoufneffe  no  caufc  is^  but  the  way,' 
 WScreby  we  to  our  Ueavnlj  Citj  come  : 
 He  that  doth  mifTc  this  path  doth  walk  aftray, 
 And  head-long  with  imqmtj  doth  run. 
 
 As  in  fome  narrow  pafTage  to  a  Town, 
 He  that  will  thither  paffe,  one  way  mnft  tread. 
 Which  if  he  mifTe,  he  wanders  up  and  down, 
 No  path  but  one  the  right  way  him  can  leade  : 
 
 Yet  we  the  path  no  caufe  of  coming  thither  reade. 
 
 3  6  This  way's  like  y^<;o^/  Ladder,  which  did  reach 
 Ev'n  up  to  Heav'n,  yet  flood  upon  the  ground  ; 
 From  top  whereof  Chrift  out  his  Arm  doth  ftretch. 
 To  help  up  all  that  in  good  works  abound. 
 
 A  ftr eight  long  way  and  many  fteps  are  found. 
 Before  we  fcale  the  top  o^ Right eoufnefle^ 
 Gods  gracious  Spirit  doth  this  way  propound. 
 And  guides  our  feet  to  move  aright  to  blelTe, 
 
 But  only  Chrift  above  doth  us  thereof  poffefTe. 
 
 3  7  In  this  way  Enochs  faid  to  walk  with  God, 
 
 And  Men  began  then  holy  invocation  :     . 
 
 Next  Noah  in  his  Makers  grace  abode, 
 
 A  juft  and  perfed  Man  in's  generation. 
 Thus  "^oh,  Let,  Abram,  have  their  commendation 
 
 For  Juftke^  Judgement,  Faith  and  Right eoufneffe. 
 
 Walking  with  Men  in  upright  converfation. 
 
 And  towards  God  in  Truth  and  Holinefe, 
 Thus  (hewing  by  her  fruits  the  Faith  which  they  profcfTe. 
 
 38  Thus  Patriarchs,  Prophet,  Judges,  Priefts,  and  Kings, 
 That  did  beleeve  Gods  future  promifes, 
 Firft  fearM  and  honoured  him  above  all  things, 
 
 '    Next  walkM  on  earth  in  Truth  and  Right eoufnejfey 
 Labouring  in  Life  and  Doftrine  to  expreffe 
 Their  firm  belief  of  Chrift  chat  was  to  come, 
 Who  fince  is  manifefted  in  the  Flefh, 
 And  doth  the  end  of  Right eoufneffe  become, 
 
 W'hich  cannot  be  obtained  unieffe  on  earth  begun. 
 
 ;oLo. 
 
39  Lo,  Mojes  had  an  eyc.to  thi^rervaird^  '  r  . 
 When  he  left  Sgyfts  fleafnres,  ^^althl  promtJon,    ^ 
 The  three  chief  baits  which  Worldlings  moft  rega  A' 
 Three  greateft  Enemies  to  true  Devotion :        ;yl^ 
 
 fofifh for  this defpisM hisMiftris motion,b  oiS^R 
 
 And  rather  chofe  that  ftocks  his  limbs  fhould  lame;  .«T 
 
 Then  he  would  tafte of  jLufts  mrighteom potion,!  jl'I 
 
 Lo,Chrift  a,  wretch  (orRighteofffnefehtczmt^ih  l:  =  A 
 
 And  for  the  'fHH*srer>ardtr^u%'il\\^Crd^esJkkme,:y^'y  ?J^ 
 
 40  Were  mortall  eyes  but  able  to  behold. 
 
 The  glorious  fplendour,  and  the  light  Divine, 
 The  Crowns,  Joys,  Honours,  Pleafures  manifold 
 PreparM  for  them  that  live  by  righte9m  Line, 
 
 And  how  the  Righteous  like  the  Sun  (hall  fhinc 
 With  Son  and  Father  in  eternall  bleffe, 
 
 "^  '  We  would  not  at  Crofle  fhafhe  reproach,  repine. 
 Which  though  they  feem  fomc  burthen  to  the  flcflr. 
 
 More  free  our  iouls  hereby  converfe  in  Holineffe. 
 
 41  Oh  make  me  fee  the  profit,  ufe,  and  end 
 OfRighteouifmfe,  and  the  neceflity 
 
 I  of  her  breaft-platc  have,  me  to  defend 
 
 Againft  the  fury  of  mine  enemy  : 
 
 And  grant,  my  confcience  good  may  teftifie 
 ;  ^  The  arms  whereby  I  may  ftand  faft  and  fure. 
 
 And  not  thofe  feignM  ones  of  Hjpocrijie, 
 
 Which  never  can  hold  out  me  to  fecure. 
 Or  any  of  the  fiery  darts  of  Hell  endure. 
 
 1  42  Then  as  a  Lion  (hall  I  be  moft  bold. 
 
 My  righteous  "^ay^  (hall  (hinc  ev'n  as  the  light. 
 The  eyes  then  of  the  Lord  (hall  me  behold 
 And  he  will  grant  me  cv'n  my  hearts  delight. 
 
 la  all  his  Scatuces  I  fnall  walk,  aright. 
 And  all  his  judgements  juft  and  true  obferve. 
 My  death  (hall  be  moft  precious  in  his  fight. 
 My  righteous  memory  he  will  referve, 
 Yea,  ev'n  the  righteou-s  kti  he  will  on  earth  preferve. 
 
 43  Thns 
 
^  Of  fHjtice  andKpghteoHjneJs. 
 
 ij3  Thus  hayiog  challicd  out  the  Rule  of  Right, 
 Igiould  by  ray  firft  Method  next  proceed  ? 
 
 Tpfingotil/frrjrj  but  Tr«^^  doth  invite 
 My  Mufe  firft  her  great  power  to  areed. 
 
 Who  doth  in  time  ev*n  Rigkeoufnefs  frtaed. 
 Bcfides,  none  can  approach  dread  Mercies  Throne^ 
 But  thofe  whom  7>/ir^  and  'fuflice  thither  Icade, 
 And  fure  their  ^4ature  links  them  fo  in  one. 
 
 As  one  without  the  other  never  goes  alone. 
 
 MEDIJ 
 
 III  JIMIP     ■■   L 
 
^J 
 
 Meditat^   IL 
 
 oftmh. 
 
 Uch  is  the  nature  and  fwrcct  mdinadon 
 O^Heav*nlyGra€esz\\,  whereof  I  fing^ 
 That  with  moft  kinde  and  mutual  reiadon^ 
 They  all  fcein  joyn'd  t<^cther  in  aring^ 
 So  clofe  each  one  another  following, 
 That  who  gets  one  doth  all  the  reft  obtain. 
 For  from  one  Fountain  all  of  them  do  fpring, 
 All  link*d  together  in  fo  ftrong  a  chain. 
 As  where  one  Virtue  dwcls^  there  all  the  reft  remain.'     /. 
 
 2  *Tis  yain  t©  think  that  fingic  Graas  can 
 Make  up  complete  the  Man  jpirititall. 
 More  then  divided  Members  of  a  Man  :  - 1  a 
 Can  grow,  or  thrive,  not  joyn'd  together  alL 
 
 Hence  Foetslht  three  Graces  trvins  do  call, 
 Joves  Daughters,  and  them  in  one  ritig  do  joyn ; 
 And  hence  they  make  the  Virgins  mnficall^ 
 All  but  one  confort,  which  are  SiFlers  nine : 
 Thus  by  their  fables  (hadowing  things  Divine. 
 
 3  For  they  difcern'd  by  Natures  dimmed  light. 
 One  Auihour  fole  of  ev'ry  goodly  grace, 
 Whom  Father  they  and  King  of  all  do  hight, 
 And  him  Lord  over  all  their  gods  do  place. 
 
 Lo;  thus  as  in  a  raift  they  Trnth  did  trace. 
 But  miffing  the  true  path  oiRighteoufneffe, 
 In^ead  oiTrHth  they  Erronr  did  embrace, 
 For  never  was/^iV  fuftice  Errours  guefTe, 
 Nor  ever  Truth  did  dwell  with  Vnright€9ufnefe, 
 
 iW 
 
 4  For 
 
90  '    of  Truth, 
 
 4  For /ffwiX^Tr/^**/?  without  the  Rule  of  Right, 
 Like  SHmmumj^  is  greareft  injury  : :'_'      .  ' "":.    ^ 
 And  RighteoHf»ejJe  not  guided  by  Trmlis  light, 
 Is  CnrioHfriefs  or  F^lfe  Hypocrife. 
 
 Faith  that  bripgs  forth  fruits  of 'Ir\iquity, 
 Is  bafe  Prefum^don  i;Love]  Wjfimtiiation 
 That  worketh  not  in  us  by  Ckmtj^ 
 All  from  one  Head  hay^.life  apcj  fuflentation. 
 And  therefore  all  togetlier  makc'their  habitati'on. 
 
 J  ButnoneiiioreliJcearCjOrofKinmoreti^ar, 
 Then  this  fair  pair i  of  Tr/^f /?  and  Right eoufnefs  ; 
 The  blefled  ^c^i^^f r .andiier  Daughter  dear ; 
 f  pr  Truth  the  Moth/cr.  is  oi^fHgbtmfsi'. 
 
 And  furely  TrrnhMiihon/^^Simfiencfs 
 To  ev'ry  VirtH6A<^ih.  fo  needfuUigrow,    ;v  oiiw  m\  i 
 That  all  fair  (hewsnot  donein\iV«^/^»i'y}  •.  rrio-i'l-io'l 
 And  Truth  of. heart  are  butiafalfc  vainllio\i;j;.;n!l  11 A 
 
 A  fplendid  fm  corrupted  by  Mans  heurt  below:  >  rirdn 
 
 6  Thou  in  whofe  Lips  was  never  faiifld  leaft  guile,-  r  ]  i '  .. 
 Whofe  Heart  bates  lying  and  itiiquity,  ^tiD^sM 
 Whofe  Hands  did  never  God  or  Man  beguileji  riolA 
 Whofe  Hand,'H^art,  Word,  'and  Thought  is  ¥emty^ 
 
 Whofe  bleffcd  Spirit  af  Truthdoih  teftifie  .^  i 
 
 UntQ  our"^Spirit'Sitrue  way  o^  Righteou/hefr^fr.Cl  ••.vjo^^ 
 
 By  which  we  come  to  live  eternally,  y^n'jd  jbnA 
 
 Dired  my  Mule  Tn^ths  nature  to  exprefle,  >  vi\  l\A 
 
 That  Truth  may  guide  my  ikps  id  endlefie  Happinefle. 
 
 7  There's  but  one  Truth^  which,  plainly  to  proceed,  >  : 
 In  four  parts  fmgled  out  I  will  define ; 
 And  firft  the  Truth  of  Judgement  I  areade,    '  / 
 A  power  enlightning  of  Gods  Spirit  Divine, 
 
 Which  doth  Mans  underiUnding  part  rcfinp,' 
 And  fettles  in  the  Dodrine  of  his  Word  : 
 Behold,  when  Truth  doth  in  our  judgement  (hinc/. , 
 All  Herejie  and  Schtfmes  by  us  abhord,  ? 
 
 This  Truth  ofjudgernent  facred  Knowledge  doth  afford.    . 
 
 8  Trut 
 
OfTrnth.  97 
 
 8  Trnth  of  the  heart  is  a  fweec  finglenefle 
 
 ^    And  finccre  meaning,  whereby  Man  conftrains 
 
 His  heart  to  approve  it  felf  in  Holinefle, 
 
 To  him  that  fearcheth  both  the  Heart  and  Reins, 
 This  in  the  inward  Man  the  Truth  contains. 
 
 And  is  to  God  moil  acceptable  treafure  : 
 
 This  Truth  from  all  Bjfocrifte  refrains  : 
 
 Here  doth  the  devil  fooneft  take  his  feafure. 
 For  lo,  the  Heart  of  Man* s  deceitfull  above  meafurc. 
 
 9  The  Truth  ofjpcech  is,  when  our  hearts  agree 
 Unto  the  matter  and  unco  our  minde  : 
 
 For  if  it  from  our  Heart  do  difagree. 
 Or  from  the  thing  whereto  it  is  defign'd, 
 
 The  firft  to  be  plain  lying  is  defin'd. 
 The  kcondi^  faljhood^t  the  beft  we  name  ; 
 One  doth  abufe  the  Confcience  and  the  Minde  ; 
 The  other  brings  the  Authour  unto  fhame ; 
 Both  falfifie  the  Truth  and  are  alike  to  blame. 
 
 2  0  The  Truth  of  Aflion%  honeft  dealing,  plain, 
 
 Faitbfull  in  all  without  diffiiuulation; 
 
 With  God  and  Man  whether  we  lofe  or  gain, 
 
 When  we  do  not  deceive  by  fimulation. 
 
 And  feigning  things  without  determination  ; 
 
 Or  elfe  diffembling  whereabouts  we  go  : 
 
 Thcfe  are  from  Truth  a  wicked  declination. 
 
 And  wbencre  God  or  Man's  abufed  fo. 
 We  do  ROt  what  we  would  others  (hould  to  us  do, 
 
 1 1  But  as  a  naturall  body  doth  confift 
 
 O^ quarters  four,  to  make  a  man  complete. 
 And  if  but  one  of  all  thofe  four  bemift. 
 The  other  three  tofe  all  their  life  and  heat : 
 Ev'n  fo  it  is  with  Truth  whereof  I  treat, 
 Ifof  thefe  four  fubftantiall  parts  want  one. 
 The  other  three  are  vainrrefTe  or  deceit ; 
 For  Truth  ofjudgevicnt^  Heart,  Speech,  ^Atiion. 
 ^ake  but  one  Truth  without  difiimuiation 
 '^^^  H  12  But 
 
,  :    but  Trnth  of  'judgement  ground  is  and  foundation 
 Of  all  the  rcit :  For,  Be  our  Hearts  fincere. 
 Our  words  and  deeds  without  diflimulation, 
 If  Errcptr  in  our  judgements  doth  appear, 
 
 With  Taulwt  may  ev'n  perfecute  the  dear 
 And  holy  Servants  of  the  JTcw  ofTrath, 
 And  think  we  do  to  God  good  fervice  here. 
 Fie  then  on  Fools  thnt  fo  inifpend  rhtir  youth, 
 
 They  never  kek  toknow  or  learn  the  wiy  of  Truth. 
 
 1 3  Bur  be  our  judgen;c,:ts  cv'n  as  right  and  found, 
 AsChrift s  Difciples  by  their  Miller  taught  • 
 Yet  if  within  us  j^diU  hearts  be  found. 
 
 On  us  the  greater  judgement  fliall  be  wrought. 
 Who  knownif-'s  >4afters  will  it  fers  at  nought, 
 Oh,  what  doth  ht  by  this  his  kj^orfUdge  gain, 
 But  ev%i  the  fling  of  his  own  confcicnce  brought 
 To  defperation  and  infernaii  pain. 
 And  to  get  out  this  fting  puts  on  an  hempen  chain  ? 
 
 14  What  fliall  we  fay  of  thofe  that  do  profeHe 
 'Trfith  of  Religkn,  and  a  He^y-t  (Incere  f 
 
 Yet  in  their  dealings  nothing  If  ffc  expreffe, 
 But  for  their  gain  deceive,  he,  and  forf^^^ear  : 
 Surely,  thefc  men  a  double  heart  do  bear  : 
 For  were  the  Heart,  which  is  a  lively  Spring 
 Whence  flow  our  words  and  deeds,  oh  were  that  clear, 
 Then  all  the  ilrcams  frora  thence  forth  iflliing,      Cfpring. 
 Would  be  pure  like  the  fountain,    whence  they  have  their 
 
 1 5  But  things  we  beft  of  all  by  canfes  know  : 
 God  is  xh€C^i:ifs  of  each  good  gift  and  grace. 
 But  here  more  medute,  Caufes  I  may  (how. 
 Whereby  he  in  ihcTruth  doth  gui-de  our  pace. 
 
 By's  jFcrd  we  lyfith  of  judgement  do  embrace. 
 Which  is  to  wandring  Souls  a  guide  and  light. 
 His  Spirit  on  our  Hearts  doth  Trt4th  enchafe. 
 Then  7  ruth  of  judge ','rjent  makes  us  Jpeakjiright^ 
 And  Trifth  of  Heart  crakes  all  our  anions  true  and  right. 
 
 i6Thus| 
 
Of  Truth.  99 
 
 1 6  Thus  (as  Effects)  true  Speech  and  ABions  flow 
 
 ■    From  Truth  of  Judgement,  and  the  Truth  of  Heart, 
 As  all  Mankinde  from  Eve  and  oAd^.m  grov^' ; 
 But  if  the  fubtle  Serpent  can  per  vert 
 
 Our  Hearts  or  Judgements,  as  he  did  divert 
 Oar  two  firft  Parents,  then  as  all  their  feed 
 Defiled  is  with  their  corrupted  part, 
 So  iiom  our  Heart  and  Judgement  will  proceed 
 
 Corrupted  words  and  adions  which  fuch  fountauis  breed, 
 
 1 7  O  bleffed  Truth  that  holj  Church  prefer ves 
 From  Satcins  malice,  and  the  Moth  of  time, 
 
 O  Glorious  Church,  whofe  foundncfle  pure  refer  ves 
 Truth  of  Religien,  which  doth  makethce  fnine 
 
 In  Righteoufnefs ,  Faith^  Hofe,  and  Love  Divine, 
 More  then  Pomp,  Wedth,  Vniverfalitj  : 
 For  Truth  doth  deck  Chrifts  Spoufe  more  trim  and  fine 
 Then  Time,  Confent,  Succeffion,  Vnitj, 
 Now  foild  with  SuperfHtion  and  Idolatry. 
 
 1 8  With  thefe  falfe  Ornaments  the  Church  O^Rome, 
 Like  painted  Harlot,  (buns  the  open  Light : 
 Nor  will  unto  the  GrofinddiVL&  PilUr  come 
 
 O^  Truth,  to  try  if  fhe  be  wrong  or  right. 
 
 Therefore  poor  Laiks  never  mult  have  fight 
 Oi  holy  wrlt^  to  frame  their  Judgement  by  : 
 Tr.iditions  and falfe  Aliracicsthem  light. 
 And  on  the  Churches  word  they  mult  rely  : 
 Thus  Ignorance  the  Mother  is  o^  Popery. 
 
 1 9  But  as  found  Truth  abhors  fuch  Ignorance, 
 Ev^n  fo  prefumptuons  Curiojity 
 
 She  doth  decline,  nor  ever  doth  advance 
 Her  pureft  thoughts  to  things  that  be  too  high  : 
 
 Her  fubjed  is  no  higher  My  fiery 
 Then  Spirit  of  Truth  is  pleafed  to  reveal : 
 Into  Godsfecret  Counfe/l lor  to  pry. 
 Is  like  the  Thief  that  fire  from  Heav'n  did  fteal, 
 To' whom  ev'n  Heathen  judgem.ents  endleffe  torments  fea). 
 
 H  2  2Z So 
 
lOO  '    "^••*-  of  Trvith. 
 
 20  So  univerfall  is  Truths  glorious  Fame, 
 
 That  all  things  that  the  Heav'n  and  Earth  contains, 
 Delight  ro  be  adorned  by  her  Name  : 
 Yea,  God  himfeif  Truths  title  not  difdains : 
 
 Lo,  He  Lord  God  o^ Truth  for  aye  remains. 
 The  H^ord  ofTrnthj  the  Sftrit  of  Truth,  likewife 
 J^F^aes, judgements^  \^tfr^,  ccmmandr!';cn^s /Truth  retain* 
 In  this,  Saints,  Angels,  with  God  iympa?hize  ; 
 But  Satan  and  his  brood  delight  in  contraries. 
 
 2 1  Thus  as  file  is  adorn'd  by  Titles  high, 
 So  with  her  Glory  fhe  doth  all  adorn  ; 
 Nothing  unto  perfection  cometh  nigh. 
 Except  by  them  the  bridge  oiTr;^th  be  born. 
 
 And  though  fome  Worldlings  do  her  Livcrj  fcorn. 
 As  things  againft  their  pleafure,  cafe,  and  gain. 
 For  that  plain-dealing  is  a  fc\s>ell  worn. 
 But  he  that  wears  it  beggery  fhail  gain ; 
 Yet  Truth  her  credit  ftill  doth  with  the  beii  retain. 
 
 22  Yea,  Tjy^th  amcngft  the  irriters  of  all  times, 
 Ha^ti  been  in  fuch  great  honour  and  account. 
 As  without  TrMth  yet  never  Profs  or  Rmes 
 To  any  Praife  or  Flonour  up  did  mount. 
 
 The  holy  Writ,  wherein  Truth  doch  furmounr, 
 She  fafely  dcth  'gainft  all  her  Foes  defend. 
 How  oft  doth  Davids  Mufc  Gods  Truth  recount. 
 Whereby  her  glory  lafts  to  the  worlds  end  ? 
 Ah,  my  poor  Mufe,  Ice  thou  alwaics  on  Truth  attend. 
 
 23  There's  not  one  Virtue  that  wfth  Love  doth  dwell. 
 But  honours  Truth,  and  feeks  her  company : 
 Begin  cv'n  at  HumtUties  low  Cell, 
 
 And  Mount  to  Mercy  that  doth  fit  on  high. 
 
 All  feek  the  company  ofVcritj. 
 Ev'n  Lcve  muft  be  mihoui diffimulation. 
 And  Rightecufnefs  without  Hjpocrife, 
 Unfeigned  Faith  true  couftanc  Exfcttati(,n, 
 !'o  virruc  vvithoui:  Trp:th  comes  near  Lcvcs  habitation. 
 
 24F^ir 
 
of  Truth .  1 01 
 
 24  Fair  glofmg  (hews  without  Dame  ^^nVj, 
 Are  butias  falfly  feigned  holinefTe, 
 Which  furely  doubles  the  iniquity, 
 
 And  never  icades  the  way  to  HappinefTe. 
 
 My  Mufe  is  far  unable  to  exprefle 
 The  praifes  all  of  Peers  that  Truth  attends. 
 Whom  (he  adorns  with  wondrous  Noblencife  : 
 But  Righteopifmfs  upon  her  moft  depends, 
 And  Mercj  now  and  Truth  have  met  &  grown  great  friend 
 
 25  But  furely  Trnthhtiih  not  fo  many  Friends, 
 But  {he  doth  finde  as  many  Enemies  : 
 
 For  Satan  all  his  malice  'gainft  her  bends. 
 Supplanting  Her  by  force  or  fubtleties. 
 
 He  father  is  of  errours  and  of  lies. 
 And  feeks  herewith  Tr/^^^  glory  to  diftain. 
 And  therefore  they  malicioufly  devife 
 Interpretations  falfe,  and  gloffes  vain. 
 Traditions,  mens  inventions,  ^gainft  her  to  maintain. 
 
 26  As  Purgatory  firfl:  they  did  devife, 
 Purfes  for  pardon  of  men^  fins  to  glean  : 
 So  Limbo's  they  for  Writers  have  likewife 
 Wherein  to  purge  and  make  their  Writings  clean, 
 
 (Index  exfurgatorii4s  I  mean  ) 
 In  which  if  any  Writer  difagrec 
 From  their  Traditions,  whereupon  they  lean. 
 They  in  this  Limbo  Tatrun^  purged  muft  be. 
 Or  faifly  elfe  condemned  to  burn  for  Herefie. 
 
 27  This  modern  }Vrits,f acred  iLy^Hticjuity, 
 The  Fathers,  Schoolmen,  T)oEiors,  Hiftories^ 
 They  all  of  them  in  Turgatorj  fry. 
 
 And  fore  againft  the  Truth  do  tyrannize. 
 ■  The  ancient  Fathers  Truths  antiquities, 
 That  like  John  Baptifi  bear  to  her  record, 
 They  do  behead,  or  elfe  them  circumcife. 
 None  fcapes  their  Index  but  Gods  holy  Word, 
 And  that  muft  be  tranflatcd  with  their  Church  t'accord. 
 
 H  \  28  True 
 
102  of  Truth. 
 
 28  True  dealing  is  like  Touchflom,  which  doth  try 
 
 The  hafer  Mettall  from  the  ^ureFi  Gold  : 
 
 Discerns  a  true  Heart  from  Hjpocrifte, 
 
 And  fained  Pttritj  doth  foon  unfold. 
 
 And  as  by  Touchfioyies  touch  is  eafily  told 
 
 What  is  pure  Gold^  from  what  \s  gnilt  for  Jhow  ; 
 
 Akhough  the  Gilt's  more  glorious  to  behold  .- 
 
 So  Trnth  of  Heart  by  Truth  of  jvords  we  know. 
 And  by  the  Anions  which  from  them  do  daily  flow. 
 
 29  Trnth's  like  the  Treafkre  which  the  Husbandman, 
 As  he  was  digging  in  the  Field,  did  found, 
 Which  he  keeps  clofe,  and  fels  all  that  he  can, 
 And  with  the  Money  goes  and  buys  the  Ground. 
 '    Shea's  like  ihe  precioiu  Pearl  the  Merchant  found. 
 And  then  fold  all,  this  Ge?nme  for  to  obtain. 
 The  wife  Man  heav'nly  Counfell  doth  propound. 
 That  wils  us  uf^  all  means  her  to  obtain, 
 
 And  buy  the  Tr^dth  vyith  lofle  of  honour,  pleafure,  gain. 
 
 30   As  precious  Ointment  powr'd  on  Aarms  head, 
 Pvan  down  upon  his  Beard  and  did  not  flay. 
 Till  all  the  Skirts  it  of  his  cloathing  fpread  : 
 Sofacrcd  Truth  her  vigour  doth  difplay 
 
 '  irom  had,  whereas  our  'judgement  makes  her  Hay 
 Unto  the  Beard  and  Tongue,  vjhtrejpeeeh  have  place. 
 Then  to  the  Heart  and  Hands  (lie  holds  her  way, 
 From  whence  our  Actions  all  have  life  and  grace; 
 
 Thus  CO  the  Skirts  of  our  iong-cloathing  Truth  doth  trace. 
 
 3 1  Gods  Truth  compares  her  to  a  Belt  or  Zcne^ 
 Which  Souldiers  ufe  for  ftrength  and  ornam.enr, 
 Whofe  golden  Scuds  rnoft  glorioiifly  (lione. 
 And  joyn  the  Armour  in  fair  complement. 
 
 Lo,  whilit  this  Girdle  is  about  us  pent, 
 Chrtftians  whcle  (*Annour  hangs  on  faft  and  fure  : 
 But  if  this  Girdle  from  our  Loins  be  rent. 
 Off  fals  our  Arms^and  Satan  or  Worlds  lure 
 
 'ihen  wounds  us  dcfperately,  or  makes  us  flecp  fecure . 
 
 .  2  2  Divine 
 
Of  Truth,  103 
 
 22  Divineft*^/?^;?^^^,  thou didftihadow  well 
 
 In  Legend  of  true  Love  and  Chafiity  : 
 
 '^y  girdle  fair  of  faircli:  Florimell^ 
 
 This  facred  Belt  of  Truth  and  Verity, 
 
 Which  none  on  loofer  Ladies  joints  could  tie. 
 
 Yet  their  fair  Limbs  chat  had  iivM  true  and  chafte. 
 
 It  did  adorn  moft  rich  and  glorioufly. 
 
 And  was  moft  fitting  for  their  flender  wafte. 
 But  they  Vngirt  unhleft,  were  that  had  been  unchafte, 
 
 33  For  as  xht  girdle  doth  indofe  around 
 
 Mans  body,  where  our  fouls  high  powers  do  dwell ; 
 Wherein  as  good  or  evil  do  abound, 
 Ev'n  all  our  adions  flow  thence  ill  or  well : 
 So  Truth  about  our  fouls  keeps  Cencinell, 
 
 !     And  ev'ry  aft  we  do  (he  doth  make  known 
 To  that  juft  Judge,  from  whom  we  can  conceal 
 Not  ev*n  the  fecret  thoughts  are  in  us  grown  : 
 
 For  nought  fo  clofe  or  fecret  is  to  Truth  unknown. 
 
 34  What  doth  the  word  of  Truth  to  us  commend. 
 More  then  this  inward  Truth  and  Singlencfle  ? 
 Abram  for  this  is  ftii'd  by  God  a  Friend, 
 
 And  "fob  a  man  o^  Truth  and  Perfefinejfe. 
 
 If  Ifhould  here  the  Readers  patience  prefTe 
 With  all  examples  therein  to  be  found. 
 Surely,  my  Verfes  fhould  be  numberleffe  : 
 Wherefore  a  few  I  for  the  Truth  propound. 
 That  you  like  Meri  ofBerea  may  the  Scripture  found. 
 
 35  Where  you  fhall  finde  o^ Truth  examples  ftore, 
 Ev^n  Chrift  himfelf  for  Truth  was  crucifide, 
 BaftiH  beheaded,  P^;// endured  more 
 
 For  Truth  then  the  Apoftles  all  befide. 
 
 When  Peter  had  the  Lord  o'tTruth  deniJe, 
 He  went  out  and  did,  weep  more  bictcerly. 
 Then  when  his  Mafter  to  him  fignifide 
 By  girding  him,  what  death  he  ought  to  die, 
 Whereby  he  (hould  the  Truth  of  God  much  glorifie. 
 
 H  4  36  Lc 
 
1 U4  Of  I  rffth, 
 
 3  6  Lo,  many  Daughters  have  done  vcrtuoufly, 
 
 But  glorious  Truth  doth  far  furmount  them  all 
 
 "Vet  if  I  only  fing  of  Verity, 
 
 And  labour  not  to  prac^ifc  it  at  all. 
 
 But  from  my  Loins\\tx  Girdle  loofen  (hall. 
 
 It  had  been  better  I  had  never  known 
 
 The  way  of  Truths  then  afterwards  to  fall 
 
 And  leave  the  Light,  that  unto  me  was  fhown, 
 Choaking  thofe  feeds  of  Grace  the  Spirit  o^  Truth  had  fown 
 
 5  7  But  ah,  now  we  with  the  fafliion  all  do  run  ; 
 
 As  Buildings,  Wares,  Apparell,  are  for  (how, 
 
 So  is  Religion  and  Devotion ; 
 
 VVhcre  is  moft  pomp  and  glory,  thither  flow 
 The  grcateft  multitude ;  From  whence  doth  grow 
 
 To  fuch  a  height  the  name  o^  Poperj  ; 
 
 Yea,  many  of  us  feek  for  praife  to  know ; 
 
 But  leave  true  pradice  in  fincerity. 
 When  not  to  k^9w  but  cio  Gods  will  is  charity. 
 
 3  8   F,}Jhiort  and  Cuftome  now  fo  tyrannize. 
 As  comely  honeft  Trnth  they  do  out-face  : 
 If  it  the  Fafhion  be  us  CO  difguife, 
 It  as  a  comely  Cuftome  we  embrace  ; 
 
 That  which  Paul  thought  a  Womans  foul  difgrace. 
 Like  Man  to  have  her  head  uncover'd,  (horn, 
 Amongft  our  Women  holds  a  goodly  grace. 
 Like  unto  mens  their  garments  now  be  worn, 
 
 As  they  in  Truth  the  fraiky  of  their  Sex  did  fcorn. 
 
 1 9  I  have  a  tale  heard,  How  a  ho/j  m^u 
 
 A  Harlot  did  divert  from  filthy  que  A  ; 
 
 Who  by  her  comely  feature  many  wan     . 
 
 To  leave  tlicir  own,  and  foil  her  filthy  neft. 
 Hiniiclf  in  hi'.bit  of  a  Gallant  drcft. 
 
 Agreed  and  paid,  defir'd  a  fecret  roome. 
 
 She  him  unto  a  Chamber  ftreight  addreft, 
 
 So  clofe  that  therein  not  leaft  light  could  come 
 Lut  ah  (faid  he)  Gods  eye  us  here  may  fee  alpne. 
 
 40  Alas 
 
40  Alas  (  faid  (he)  no  place  can  be  f©  clofe, 
 That  can  us  hide  from  Gods  all-feeing  Eye  : 
 Doft  thou  bcleeve  (faith  he)  Gods  fees  thy  groffe, 
 Thy  beaftly  foul  fin  of  adultery. 
 
 And  fear'ft  not  left  his  fury  (hould  dcftroy, 
 Bv'n  whilft  in  this  prefumptuous  fin  thou  art. 
 And  thee  condemn  to  Hell  eternally  ? 
 My  Authour  faith,  hereby  he  did  convert 
 Her  wicked  life  to  Trttth  and  Singlene^e  of  Heart. 
 
 41  But  I  confeffe  that  though  with  all  my  might 
 I  labour  for  true  purity  of  minde, 
 
 And  would  do  nothing  but  as  in  the  fight 
 O^God  and  Angels,  Satan  and  Mankinde  ; 
 
 Yet  often  my  deccitfull  heart  I  finde 
 Tempting  me  fecretly  fuch  things  to  do. 
 Which  I  fhould  not  adventure  in  that  kinde, 
 if  fome  Man  prefent  were  the  fame  to  know , 
 Yet  Truth  the  clofeft  of  them  all  to  God  doth  fhow. 
 
 42  Oh  thou  that  Truth  requir'ft  in  inward  parts. 
 Us  fecretly  mak'ft  fVifedcm  underftand. 
 Renewing  Spirits  aright  and  clenfing  Hearts, 
 By  whom  in  Truth  and  Righteoufneffe  we  ftand. 
 
 My  way  dired  right  to  the  holj  Land, 
 Through  Defarts  wide  of  this  Worlds  wildernefle  • 
 Feed  me  with  heavenly  Manna,  from  thine  Hand, 
 With  water  from  a  Rock  my  foul  refrefh. 
 And  thorow  Jordans  floud  condud  to  endleffe  bleffe. 
 
 43  Oh  let  thy  Word  of  Truth  my  Judgement  fway. 
 Thy  Sfirit  of  Truth  mine  inward  Man  inlsght. 
 Incline  mine  Heart  to  learn,  Will  to  obey, 
 Ard  on  thy  Truth  kt thou  my  wholedelight. 
 
 On  it  to  medicate  both  day  and  night ; 
 That  whether  I  eat,  fleep,  walk,  watch,  orpray, 
 I  may  remember  I  am  in  thy  fight. 
 So  fhall  I  confcience  make  of  every  way. 
 And  be  moft  careful!  what  I  ask,  think,  do,  or  fay. 
 
 44  But 
 
Too  O^  ^I'ruth, 
 
 44  But  ah,  Dread  Mercy  ^  I  too  long  forbear 
 To  tunc  my  Ditty  to  thy  facred  praife. 
 Who  wcrtfo  gracious  unto  me  whileare 
 When  I  appealed  from  "fufiia  ftrider  Sayes, 
 
 Unto  thy  Throne  of  Grace,  where  though  my  waies 
 Were  all  difcover*d  by  thy  gracious  dome 
 I  was  abfolvM.  But  next  I  will  thee  praife. 
 Now  I  with  Truth  and  Right eonfnefs  have  done ; 
 
 For  none  without  thefe  two  to  Mercies  grace  can  come. 
 
 MEDI- 
 
 i 
 
107 
 
 Meditat*    II  I^ 
 
 of  Mercy. 
 
 F  any  mighty  Monarch  chance  enquire. 
 Why  IJweet  Mercies  feat  do  place  fo  high. 
 Since  (he  the  lowlieft  Cell  doth  moft  defire. 
 Her  felf  delighting  fole  in  mifery. 
 The  only  Objed  of  her  pitying  eye : 
 He  hence  for  greatnefTe  may  this  leffon  gain. 
 That  as  he  grows  in  Pow'r  and  Ma  jefty. 
 To  poor  he  ought  the  greater  Mercy  dain. 
 Thus  imitating  him  by  whom  ev'n  Princes  raign. 
 
 2  For  though  this  Dame  be  of  fuch  wondrous  grace, 
 So  near  in  favour  to  the  £)ueen  of  Love ^ 
 
 That  next  to  her  fhe  gains  the  foveraign  place, 
 Boch  here  below,  and  in  the  Heaven  above ; 
 
 Yea  though  to  heav'nly  Love  fo  like  fhe  prove. 
 That  fcarce  the  one  from  th^other  can  be  known, 
 (Though  to  be  mercifuli,  and  truly  love 
 Do  differ  much,  as  after  (hall  be  ihown  ) 
 Her  bounty  is  not  to  the  meaneft  wretch  unknown. 
 
 3  A  depth  al!  bottomlefTe  I  now  do  founi, 
 
 A  height  which  higher  then  the  Heavens  doth  reach. 
 So  wide  as  nothing  it  can  compa(re  round. 
 For  Mercj  over  all  Gods  works  do  ftretch ; 
 
 So  far  beyond  mans  limited  frail  reach. 
 As  to  conceive  of  Gods  Eternity, 
 Or  how  he  all  doth  out  of  nothing  fetch, 
 DarkneiTe  from  Light,  Joy  out  of  Mifery, 
 From  War  true  Peace,  high  Honour  from  Humility. 
 
 4  Thou. 
 
io8  ofMercj. 
 
 4  Thou,  God  of  Mercy  \  BleQed  Trinity  \ 
 Who  firft  in  thine  own  Image  didft  create 
 Man  pure  and  good  :  But  when  Hcis  fubtlety 
 Had  him  dejeded  from  fo  happy  ftatc. 
 
 Abandoning  to  cndlefle  Bale  and  Hate, 
 That  riches  of  thy  Mercy  might  appear, 
 Didft  for  thy  Mertiesfake  regenerate. 
 And  all  his  fcore  by  thy  Blouds  price  didft  clear. 
 Grant  I  may  rightly  (ing  and  praAife  Mercy  here. 
 
 5  Which  is  a  certain  pitifull  regard. 
 We  do  of  others  mifery  conceive. 
 Whereby  our  hearts  are  moved  and  prepar'd. 
 Them,  what  we  can,  to  fuccour  and  relieve  : 
 
 That  Pajfion  and  AfeElion  which  doth  grieve 
 Mans  heart,  to  fee  anothers  mifery^ 
 Doth  not  unto  th' Almighties  Mercy  cleave. 
 No  more  then  Anger,  Hate,  and  Jealoufie, 
 As  they  diftempcrs  are,  be  in  the  Trinity. 
 
 6  No  words  indeed  can  properly  expreffe 
 Gods  Mercy,  Anger,  Hate,  or  Jealoufie, 
 But  as  we  fee  their  fruits  we  them  confefle. 
 To  be  in  God  by  Anthropopathy  : 
 
 Gods  pftm/hment  of  foul  iniquity. 
 We  call  Revenge ;  And  when  he  Graee  doth  (how 
 To  thofe  that  are  in  wo  and  mifery. 
 We  call  that  Pity :  Not  but  v,/e  well  know. 
 No  paiiijsn  or  diftcmper  m  Gods  Nature  grow. 
 
 7  That  Mercy  may  the  plain lier  be  defcride. 
 And  we  her  diverfe  Nature  better  know, 
 
 I  her  into  two  Currents  do  divide ; 
 The  Adercy  God  on  Creatures  doth  beftow. 
 And  that  which  he  requires  of  us  below  : 
 For  as  God  is  by  N^tm'c  pit  if u/i, 
 So  he  delights  in  them  that  Mercy  fhcw ; 
 I'or  he  by  Nature  is  moft  Merciful/, 
 And  therefore  unto  all  in  Fruits  moft  plentiful!. 
 
 CiGQOS 
 
of  Mere  J,  109 
 
 8  Gods  Nature  is  Etcrnall,  Infinite, 
 So  i«  his  cJV/fr^r  ftrecchcd  out  to  all, 
 
 Ev'n  as  the  Sun  to  Man  and  Bcaft  gives  light. 
 And  Rain  on  bad  and  good  alike  do  fail : 
 But  this  we  call  Gods  Mercy  general!. 
 Which  lath  but  for  a  dmc.  But  on  the  fufi 
 He  (licws  his  Mercj  more  ejfeciall. 
 Which  everUfiing  is ;  wherein  we  truft. 
 And  whereby  He  to  Blifle  will  raifc  us  from  the  Duft. 
 
 9  But  here  we  muft  have  an  efpeciall  Care, 
 Left  diffrencc  of  Gods  Mercj/  we  confound. 
 Not  fpeciall  cverlafting  Grace  to  fhare, 
 where  he  but  common,  generally  doth  propound  • 
 
 !  his  is  a  firm  Pofttion,  true  and  found, 
 That  God  in  Unbelief  hath  ftiut  up  all. 
 That  his  great  Mercj  might  to  all  abound  • 
 Unto  the  kicked,  common,  gemrall, 
 Eternall  \xnto  them  that  on  him  right Ij  call, 
 
 10  God  grant  to  Me  this  Mercj  fpeciall, 
 That  o'tMans  Mercj  I  may  right  enquire. 
 That  teaching  I  may  pradife  it  withall. 
 The  Mercj  that  God  doth  of  us  require. 
 
 Of  which,  a  two-fold  kinde  make  ijne  entire ; 
 Firfi  towards  Sinners  that  do  go  aflray. 
 The  next  to  Poor,  and  thofe  that  Help  dcfire ; 
 Firft  fities  Souls,  and  leades  them  in  right  way, 
 The  Ufl  fupplics  their  Wants,  that  need  have  cv'ry  Day, 
 
 [  T  For  as  Mans  foul  is  his  moft  noble  part. 
 Whereon  his  folc  eternall  Bliffe  depends. 
 So  he  the  gr^ateft  Mercj  doth  impart. 
 Who  to  poor  wandring  Souls  his  Mercj  fends  : 
 
 He  that  gives  to  the  Poor,  he  furel}'  lends 
 To  God,  that  will  four-fold  his  gift  repay ; 
 But  who  to  fave  poor  Souls  his  Mercj  fpcnds. 
 Shall  fure  obtain  thofe  Crowns  at  that  great  Day, 
 
 Vhich  Qq^  doth  up  in  Here  for  fuch  Soul-favers  lay. 
 
 12  In 
 
no  of  Jiaercy. 
 
 1 2  In  men  we  divers  outward  caiifes  fee, 
 Which  them  to  Mercy  and  Com^ajjion  move  • 
 Some  by  remembrance  of  lUie  milery 
 which  in  themfelves  they  formerly  did  prove  • 
 
 Some  Kindred,  Youth,Acquaintance,friendiy  Love, 
 Learning,  Nobility,  to  Pity  icadc  : 
 But  none  of  thefe  caufe  Mercy  from  above. 
 But  it  from  Gods  fole  goodnefle  doth  proceed. 
 And  not  from  any  thing  that  in  our  Natures  breed. 
 
 1 3  None  can  to  Mercies  perfedinefTe  attain  ' 
 But  only  God,  whofe  Mercys  over  all ; 
 
 No  number  can  our  miferies  contain. 
 Yet  God  in  ftore  hath  Mercy  for  them  all : 
 
 Only  in  "^orSis  Gods  Mercy  doth  not  fall, 
 But  moft  m  fruits  and  comfohs  doth  abound: 
 As  Mercy  hath  no  meafure,  fo  withail, 
 Hqv  fruits  and  V^or^s  all  numbers  do  confound,' 
 Mans  life  a  daily  exercife  thereof  is  found. 
 
 14  *Tis  not  a  heavy  Heart  or  gxievedMinde, 
 Companionate  of  others  mifqries^ 
 Whereby  afflided  Souls  notprofit  finde. 
 But  as  our  Heart,  fo  our  Abilities 
 
 Muft  minifter  to  Saints  necei]itics  ; 
 They  that  the  Heart  and  Hand m  this  disjoyn. 
 Faith  and  Goed  Works  to  funder  do  devife. 
 If  firfl  our  Hearts  to  Mercy  true  endinQ^    . 
 Cooiwords  m^  Works  from  thence  as  true  Effefts  will  (hine, 
 
 15  Then  wt  them  truly  VcorJ^  of  Mercy  call, 
 When  from  unfeigned  -Jn^lcrcy  tliey  proceed  : 
 For  fure  it  is  the  Heart  that  feafon^  all. 
 Which  maketh  mercifull  in  word  and  deed. 
 
 Thus  fbie  relceves  tbe  Poor  that  are  in  need. 
 And  Widows,  Orphans,  Strangers  en- ertain  ; 
 Doth  clothe  the  Naked,  and  the  Hungry  -bed, 
 Vific  the  fick,  the  Captives  that  remain 
 In  bonds,quice  loofc  ;  And  comfort  thofe  that  mourn  in  pain. 
 
 16  By 
 
r^'  Vjjiaercj,  -  iii 
 
 6  By  her  is  daily  great  provifion  made 
 For  Blinde,01d,Lam^,all  People  that  are  poor. 
 Not  thofe  chat  do  of  pegging  make  a  Trade, 
 And  loofely  idle  walk  from  dore  to  dore, 
 A  work  oi  Mercy  (he  it  deems  to  gore 
 Such  Vagabonds :  their  Paffe  with  bloud  to  feal, 
 Unfruitfull  Vermine  that  eonfume  our  ftore,  ;: 
 
 The  Caterpillers  ef  our  Common-weal, 
 
 Vhich  to  maintain  bafe  eafe  and  luft,  beg,  lie,  and  fieaL 
 
 [  7  Thus  fhe  accompanide  with  Humility 
 
 Into  deep  (linking  Dungeons  will  defeend. 
 
 To  vifit  captiv'd  thralsin  mifery. 
 
 And  them  inftrud  in  waies  of  Truth  to  wend,  • ; 
 
 Exhorting  them  their  bad  lives  to  amend  : 
 
 If  any  for  well-doing  bound  do  lie. 
 
 She  for  his  ranfome  her  eftate  will  fpend. 
 
 All  Malefadors  wants  She  doth  fupply, 
 t^or  well  (he  knows  Chrift  did  for  Malefadors  die. 
 
 1 8  She  next  like  Lot  and  Abram  entertains 
 Strangers  all  Day,  at  Noon,  and  eke  at  Night  : 
 Not  that  (he  hopes  from  them  leaft  gold  or  gains^Jj  jo^ 
 Or  that  with  double  mends  they  will  requite  :  .       ;  -r*  "'7 
 
 But  thofe  which  harbour  want  (he  doth  invite;  •  i  i 
 Humbly  to  Meat,  and  Drink,  and  Lodging  meet,; 
 Where  (he  to  wait  upon  them  takes  delight, 
 And  brings  fair  water  for  to  wa(h  their  Feet, 
 
 \nd  them  for  her  fweet  Saviours  fake  doth  fairly  greet.    :, 
 
 P  Then  (he  the  hungry  Bodies  of  the  Poor 
 
 With  her  fair  Hand  of  plenty  fiill  doth  feed. 
 
 And  drink  unto  the  thirfty  powreth  ftore. 
 
 She  fears  not  once  her  felf  to  ftand  in  need. 
 Who  to  the  Sower  miniftreth  his  feed^ 
 
 And  bread  unto  the  humble,  vvill  provide 
 
 For  thofe  which  of  her  Body  (he  doth  breed, 
 
 She  with  no  future  want  is  terrifidc. 
 For  others  oft  to  feed,  (he  hunger  doth  abide, 
 
 20  Oh. 
 
I12r  Of  Mercy. 
 
 30  Oh,  (hould  you  fee  th'abundance  every  day 
 Of  clothes,  (he  for  the  naked  doth  provide. 
 To  keep  them  from  the  cold,  and  to  aray 
 Gods  Images  which  here  in  Clay  abide, 
 
 And  if  that  any  naked  (he  cfpide. 
 After  (he  all  her  clothes  divided  had, 
 She  would  her  own  coat  cut  our,   and  divide 
 To  thofe  that  want :  moft  chearfully  and  glad 
 
 That  (he  had  foch  a  (hifr,  poor  naked  Souls  to  clad . 
 
 2 1  With  thofe  that  mourn  in  Sion  (he  will  mourn. 
 And  bear  a  part  with  them  in  mifery. 
 Whether  they  weep,  by  friends  as  left  forlorn. 
 Or  grone  with  weight  of  their  iniquity, 
 
 She  wondrous  faives  of  comfort  doth  apply, 
 And  when  they  weep,  (he  mourning  not  forbears, 
 And  oft  in  Pfalmes  and  Hymns  makes  melody. 
 Sweet  Pfalmes  and  Hymns  that  dry  up  all  our  tears, 
 And  like  to  pleafant  Wine  make  us  forget  our  cares. 
 
 22  But,  moft  of  all,  fick  perfons  (he  doth  tend. 
 And  comfort  them  in  point  of  death  that  lay. 
 For  there  moft  needed  comfort  fweet  to  lend. 
 When  Sin,  Hell,  Death,  and  Confcience  do  difmay 
 
 The  Soul  that  now  departing  is  away  : 
 Firft  fpirituall  comfort  (he  to  them  doth  deal. 
 How  on  Chrifts  merits  they  (hould  only  ft  ay. 
 Balm  that  applide  aright,  their  fores  (hould  heal ; 
 And  prays  the  Sftrit  within  the  Truth  hereof  may  feal. 
 
 ^  3   *T  were  infinite  to  tell  the  wondrous  ftorei' 
 
 Of  heav'nly  comforts  Afcrr;  can  apply, 
 
 For  Mercj  hath  a  falvc  for  ev'ry  fore  : 
 
 Souls  burthened  with  their  iniquity 
 She  handlcth  moft  fofc  and  tenderly  ; 
 
 The  fmoaking  flax,  nor  yet  the  bruifed  reed 
 
 She  will  not  quench  or  break  unwarily  ; 
 
 Such  hcav'nly  comforts  can  this  Peer  areed. 
 That  (he  makes  Souls  revive  when  Bodies  are  nigh  dead. 
 
 24Bcft 
 
Of  Alertjnr^-     -^ 115 
 
 24  Beft  skill  to  cure  the  body  {he  doth  ufe^ 
 And  to  his  former  health  again  reilore  t 
 No  Office  meaner  bafc  (he  doth  rifufe, 
 That  may  the  pain  aflWage,  or  heal  his  fore. 
 
 All  miferies  lie  open  her  before. 
 That  (he  may  lend  to  all  her  help  and  aid, 
 She  phyfick  fends,  and  meat  unto  the  poor, 
 Withbedsof  down,  whereon  heiiiay  belaid. 
 And  though  her  med'cines  fail,  her  praicr's  neyer  ftaid, 
 
 25  But  if  their  Souls  from  Bodies  once  depart, 
 In  feemly  fort  (he  cares  them  to  engrave, 
 La^TPorl^of  Mercy  ^k^tysItfii\\m^ilt 
 
 Unto  their  corps  when  God  their  foul  doth  fave. 
 
 Which  though  now  duft,  yet  mod  fure  hope  wc  have, 
 God  will  the  fame  a  glorious  Body  raife. 
 And  deck  in  for  her  Sfoufe  moft  fine  and  brave. 
 The  Deads  memoriall  (he  doth  often  praife, 
 The  living  to  provoke  to  walk  in  righteous  waies. 
 
 26  Thus  when  (he  hath  in  Grave  him  feemly  laid. 
 With  mnch  lamenting,  and  with  mar-y  tears,'  : 
 To  tender  Orphans  and  to  Widows  aid. 
 
 She  doth  employ  the  utmoft  of  her  cares. 
 
 In  whofe  defence  no  great  Mans  frowns  (he  fears'. 
 But  iiands  in  judgement  for  their  firm  defence. 
 And  if  both  Parents  die,  as  oft  it  fares. 
 Their  tender  Babes  fhe  foon  reraoveth  thence. 
 And  feeds,  and  puts  to  School  ev*n  at  her  own  expence. 
 
 27  Therefore  fhe  large  Alms-houfes  hath  ercded,  . 
 Fair  Coliedges  for  Mufes  habitation, 
 
 And  Churches  by  prophaner  fort  negleded. 
 Adorns  and  decks  in  honourable  fafliion  : 
 
 She  holds  it  much  againft  her  reputation. 
 In  goodly  feelcd  Houfes  to  abide. 
 And  fee  Gods  Temples  ruinous  prophanation. 
 ,   Ifinher  anyfparingbedefcride, 
 
 'lis  chat  fhe  works  of^<?r9' may  aifpread  more  wide/  . 
 
 I  2S  But 
 
114  Of'J^ercy. 
 
 28  But  all  1  no  pen  is  able  to  recount 
 The  fruits  of  Mercj  by  HHmlitj^ 
 
 But  in  one  work  I  all  them  up  do  count, 
 'Tofuccoy^r  thofe  that  arc  in  miferj 
 
 As  there  is  infinite  variety 
 Of  miferics  in  Soul  and  Body  found, 
 So  without  number  (he  doth  helps  fupply. 
 But  for  her  end  Souls  health  rtie  doth  propound, 
 And  in  fuch  heav'nly  comforts  (he  doth  moft  abound,  ' 
 
 29  Rebuke,  'admoni(h,  fuffer,  and  chaftifc. 
 Her  very  ftripes  are  corrafives  to  heal,^ 
 And  when  in  moft  diftreffe  the  Body  lies, 
 Moft  comfort  then  to  (he  doth  reveal. 
 
 Thus  Chrift  did  unto  her  a  patern  feal. 
 With  worf;z///oo^hethoufand  Bodies  fed. 
 But  thofe  to  whom  be  Bread  of  Life  did  deal, 
 Lii^  huge  Sea  fands  cannot  be  numbred. 
 Whereby  their  Souls  now  live,  though  yet  their  Bodies  deai 
 
 30  J  lift  ic  e  diVidi  Mercjhoih  Ao  well  accord. 
 And  in  one  Suhjetl  may  contained  be. 
 For  Jufi  and  Adercifull  is  God  our  Lord, 
 Jufi  as  a  fudge,  but  as  a  Father  he    , 
 
 Is  pitifull  and  tender :  So  ought  we 
 In  our  own  caufe,  as  Fathers  U^fercj  fhow. 
 And  our  dear  Brethren  of  all  wrongs  to  free. 
 But  when  we  (it  in  judgement,  we  muft  know. 
 We  are  Gods  Mmifters  to  puni(h  fin  below. 
 
 51  Ev*nasa7»%f  inhisown  P^twi/y 
 
 Uiito  ^.gracelc^efcn  may  pardon  give. 
 
 Though' he  his  Coffers  rifle  privily, 
 
 And  do  Gonfpire  of  life  him  to  deprive ; 
 But  if  as  TraitorXo  his  Prince  he  live, 
 
 A  nd  one  beforehis  Father  him  arraign  ; 
 
 Tie  Judge  there  cannot  his  own  Son  forgive, 
 
 Hut  nu.ft  condemn  to  his  deferved  pain, 
 IcrNhgif  raies  ought  not  to  bear  the  (word in  vain. 
 
 3i 
 
of  Mercy,  II5 
 
 22  I  Mercj  here  and  "^aftlce  may  compare 
 tlnto  a  Gardiners  Ipade  and  prunmg  knife. 
 The  knife  luxurious  branches  off  doth  pare, 
 That  for  vain  fncw  grow  fruitleffe,  rank,  and  rife ; 
 The  Sf  ^^f  uniio  fines  root,  gives  heart  and  life. 
 By  dunging,  opening  it  to  Sun  and  Rain  : 
 Ne  yet  betwixt  them  difcord  is  or  ilrife, 
 One  prunes  d^  houghs,  the  other  doth  maintain 
 
 The  Root.  Both  have  one  end  the  Bodies  good  and  gain. 
 
 3  3  In  this  worlds  School  we  all  like  Scholars  are. 
 
 Fitted  below  for  Fcilowfhips  above, 
 
 yt^frfj,  our  PatronelTe  doth  lis  prepare 
 
 Food,  Rayment,Bookes,all  things  that  needful!' prove. 
 We  all  have  but  one  LefTon  here  :  to  love  : 
 
 Which  none  can  better  teach  then  this  fweet  Peer, 
 
 Yet  our  untovv'ardneiTe  doth  oft  her  move. 
 
 To  fuffer  Jufticeio  corred  us  here  : 
 Which  fare  doth  us  more  good  then  ail  her  dainty  cheer. 
 
 34  So  as  Ccrreclion  truly  may  be  faid 
 
 To  be  a  ^^ork^ of  Alercy :  For  as  he 
 
 That  moft  atfeds  his  Son,  is  not  afraid' 
 
 To  fcourge  him  oft  for  his  impiet^', 
 Ev'n  fo  our  gracious  God,  to  vvhom  we  be 
 
 Then  Son  unto  his  Father  far  more  dear, 
 
 Doth  oft  chaftife  to  purge  and  purifie 
 
 Us  from  fins  guilt,  whereby  we  may  appear 
 Before  him  perfed,  pure,  and  live  more  holy  here,- 
 
 3  5  For  Mercy  doth  like  skilfuU  Surgeon  deal. 
 
 That  hath  for  ev'ry  fore  a  remedy  : 
 
 If  gentle  drawing  plaifters  cannot  heal 
 
 The  wound,  becaufe  it  feftreth  inwardly. 
 He  (harper  corrafives  mull  then  apply, 
 
 And  as  he  oft  cuts  off  fome  member  dead,- 
 
 Or  rotten,  left  the  reft  fhould  putrifie. 
 
 So  Mercj  wicked  Mem.bers  off  doth  (bred. 
 Left  they  ftiouid  no}  fome  prove  to  bo  dy  and  theheaJ, 
 
 I  i     ,  :?6Htre 
 
Ii6  of  Afercj.  W 
 
 3  6  Here  will  I  ftrive  to  clear  the  difference 
 That  I  of  Lov€  and  Mercy  do  conceive,  1' 
 
 To  other  each  have  fo  near  reference,  ] 
 
 That  we  one  for  another  oft  receive  :  ' 
 
 Gods  Love  upon  zh' EleH:  doth  only  cleave,. 
 Mercj  on  them  in  Miferj  that  \iQ, 
 Till  Satan  our  firft  Parents  did  deceive, 
 God  them  embraced  in  Love  and  Charity; 
 
 No^frrj  needed  them  that  felt  no  Miferj, 
 
 3  7   €jods  Love  doth  moft  in  our  Creation  ihine. 
 
 In  our  Eletiion  and  *Tredeftinatlon  : 
 
 But  his  great  Mercj  feems  to  draw  her  line 
 
 From  our  Redemftion  and  fp'fljficaticn  . 
 Not  that  J  hence  exclude  Zox/f  j  operation,. 
 
 For  Leve  is  as  the  Prince  and  Sovcraign^ 
 
 Of  all  the  Graces  needfuil  to  falvation ; 
 
 And  Mercy  is  the  chiefefl  of  her  train. 
 And  feems  in  Mans  Redemption  like  her  j^ueento  reign. 
 
 3  8   As  that  great  Peer  that  in  his  Princes  grace. 
 For  Vertfie  and  for  Learning  high  doth  ftand. 
 And  next'to  him  obtains  the  fecond  place. 
 And  chiefeft  government  of  all  the  Land, 
 
 In  Court  of  Mercy  doth  ev'n  coanter-raand 
 Afts  that  are  fped  in  fuflice  highcfl  T^lea ; 
 So  Mercy  here,  who  is  ^ueen  Loves  right  hand. 
 Doth  us  from  fentence  of  damnation  free. 
 
 Which  Jfifiice  doth  pronounce ;  A  hard,  but  juft  Decree. 
 
 3  9  But  as  this  Peer  derives  authority 
 
 From  Prince,  by  whom  ail  Regiment  doth  move ; 
 So  rpcciall  faving  Mercy  doth  rely. 
 And  firil  proceed  from  Gods  eternallLove. 
 O  deep  rich  wifcdom  of  our  God  above, 
 Unfearchable  thy  Judgements  and  thy  Wales, 
 Pad  finding  out  1  more  hard  the  more  we  prove, 
 Moft  glorious  Sun  of  Z<?t/f  which  wide  difplays 
 
 Tliy  beams  of  Adercy  bright  like  Phabw  golden  rays. 
 
OfMerey,  117 
 
 p  As  Ointment  fweet  that  powr'd  on  Akrons  head, 
 
 1  Ran  down  and  did  perfume  his  garments  all. 
 So  this  fweet  Oil  of  Mercy  doth  difpread. 
 From  Chrift  our  Head  and  on  his  Members  fall : 
 
 If  I  (hould  here  to  your  remembrance  call 
 The  names  of  all,  whole  Mercies  did  abound  : 
 I  might  as  well  here  make  memoriall 
 Of  afl  Saints  Names  that  Books  of  Life  propound, 
 ^ho  fhew'd  true  Mercy  here,  in  Heav'n  have  Mercy  found. 
 
 :  But  that  we  may  the  easMier  apprehend, 
 And  tafte  Gods  C^tercy  ;  He  it  makech  known 
 To  us  familiarly :    And  doth  commend 
 It  to  us  by  examples  of  our  own . 
 
 As  Father  hath  to  Childe  his  Mercy  (liown. 
 As  Mother  fruit  of  her  own  womb  doth  love, 
 As  Birds  iht^t young  ones  feed  till  they  be  flown  ; 
 So  mercifull  the  Lord  to  us  will  prove ; 
 ind  though  all  thefe  fhould  fail,  God  will  not  fail  above. 
 
 2  But  ah  !  fo  carelefly  vJt  Mercy  fhow. 
 And  fuccour  thofe  that  are  in  mifery. 
 That  we,^  all  means  do  avoid  to  know 
 Their  w'^s,  that  are  in  wo  and  poverty. 
 
 VVhenas  indeed  to  fee  calamity 
 Of  others  doth  Mans  heart  to  pity  move. 
 We  fwim  in  Plenty  and  Profperity, 
 Regarding  not  what  hardneffe  others  prove, 
 
 ^nd  far  the  fight  or  thought  of  wretchcdncfTe  remove.    .  "■ : 
 
 \  "^ 
 
 .3  Our  Caftaifj  did  not  thus  that  went  before, 
 But  in  much  anguifh,  pain,  and  tribulation 
 Converted  Souls,  heal'd  Sick,  releevM  the  Poor, 
 Himfelf  without  a  houfe  for  habitation. 
 
 In  works  of  Mercy  was  his  converfation 
 What  Member  fuffred  and  he  did  not  grone  > 
 Where  faw  he  want  and  (hewed  not  compailion  } 
 What,  did  our  Head  this  by  himfelf  alone  ? 
 
 Jo,  His  Apoflles  all  with  him  in  this  have  gone. 
 
 i     3  AjLOh 
 
Ii8  of  Mercj. 
 
 44  Oh,  that  v\^e  would  in  this  Him  imitate. 
 And  Merc^  ev'n  with  open  Arms  embracb 
 
 With  our  whole  heart,  ttrength,  fubftance.and  eftate, 
 Aid  and  rcleeve  the  Poor  in  wretched  cafe ; 
 
 'Tis  not  a  fiteom  heart  that  makes  men  bafe  : 
 For  they  that  are  moft  valiant,  noble  wife, 
 Are  readied  Mercj  here  to  fhew  and  Grace, 
 When  Cruelty's  the  badge  of  Cowardife : 
 Good  Kings  rule  all  by  love ;  Ufurpers  tyrannize. 
 
 45  God  able  is  by  his  one  only  Word, 
 To  fiiccour  all  that  are  in  Mifery, 
 And  in  abundance  dnilj  l^read  atford. 
 To  thofe  that  are  in  VcarJ  and  pcvertj ; 
 
 Yet  more  to  fhow  his  X/^rA-^/Ziry, 
 And  that  his  wondrous  Bounrj  might  appear, 
 Us  for  hjs  Stewards  he  doth  dignifie. 
 And  good  Dijpen/ers  of  his  bounteous  cheer  : 
 Happy  is  he  whole  Lord  him  findeth  faithfull  here. 
 
 46  Lord,  of  thofe /<:?// /j/;,<//  Steirards  make  me  one, 
 '  Yet  for  no  hope  ot  Merit  or  "Defcrt, 
 
 But  for  die  Glorj  of  thy  Grace  alone, 
 And  riches  of  ihy  Love,  who  Authonr  art 
 
 Of  ev'ry  Grace  chat  cometh  from  the  Heart : 
 With  temporall  afflidiohs  exercifc 
 Mc,  that  I  may  efcape  etcrnall  fmart. 
 And  learn  by  fy\ds  and  mine  infirmities 
 To  fucLOur  all  chat  are  in  wo  and  miferies, 
 
 47  Could  we  cc^nccive  what  Mercj  may  be  found 
 With  rnercifulleft  man  that  ere  did  live, 
 
 And  we  may  know  far  greater  doth  abound 
 With  God,  who^s  noc  more  willing  to  releeve 
 '■  Then  able  all  things  needfuil  us  to  give, 
 Befuies  in  Mercj  he  doth  take  delight, 
 Ivloft  ready  their  offences  to  forgive 
 That  do  rely  upon  his  Truth  and  Might, 
 And  on  his  gracious  Providence  do  relt  aright. 
 
 Q  A 
 
^J   *'— '^• 
 
 5  And  therefore  thou  this  life  appointed  here 
 For  Mirey ;  but  in  life  that  is  to  come 
 Thbu  as  an  upright  Judge  wilt  th^n  appear. 
 And  render  ev'ry  Man  as  he  hath  done  : 
 
 Oh  (houldft  thou  here  with  fudgement  have  begun. 
 We  all  had  been  the  Veflels  of  damnation. 
 And  but  for  Mercj  we  had  long  agone 
 Been  fwallowed  up  of  Hell  and  Defperation, 
 
 fhy  Mtrcj  that  begun,  Lord  finilh  our  Salvation, 
 
 MEDI- 
 
M 
 
 EDITAT, 
 
 IV. 
 
 of  Patience. 
 
 Ell  hath  our  ValUnt  Guide  Mans  Life  compared 
 ^^^^fj^M   ^'^^o  a  warfare,  where  we  alwaies  ftand 
 >^Vv^v'i^  ^    In  com  piece  Armour,  ready  and  prepared 
 ^^Hu/^'W    ^^^  ^oxc^  of  crueil  Foe-men  to  withttand, 
 ^i^i^rji^         Where  Satan,  jvorld:,  and  Flejh  together 
 By  open  force  and  rreafon  to  fubdue,  (  band. 
 
 And  leede  us  captive, by  tbeir  mighty  hand. 
 And  all  unarmed,  or  cut  of  order  ^wt 
 They  fetcer'd  drag  to  Hellmxh  curfed  damned  crue. 
 
 ^   Which  to  avoid,  he  wills  us  to  be  firong 
 
 In  God,  and  in  the  Power  of  his  might ; 
 
 And  the  whole  Armour  that  doth  here  belong 
 
 To  Chrijlian  Souldiers,  on  our  Souls  to  dight : 
 For  here  vvuh  Flefi  and  PJoad  we  do  not  fight. 
 
 But  Empires,  Powers,  principalities, 
 
 The  V'rorldly  Governors  of  darkeft  night, 
 
 SuhIir/:e,JpiritfiaI!,  ftdtle  Encrr/ies ; 
 Which  to  reiTft,  he  ghoftly  ^rmenr  doth  devife. 
 
 3    The  Belt  of  Truth,  Brtjl-plate  of  Righteoufaejfe, 
 
 Faiths  Shield,  and  Hope  the  Helmet  offalvation, 
 
 Sv;'ordof  the  Spirit,  Prajers  ferventne^e. 
 
 Feet  pjod  in  peaces  Gejpels  preparation  : 
 Thefe  be  the  Weapons  of  our  Militation. 
 
 Of  FJelmet,  Bref  plate.  Shield,  and  Girdle,  we 
 
 Already  have  conceiv'd  a  Meditation  : 
 
 Th efc  fof^.r  the  upper  parts  arm  to^the  knee, 
 Pdticn€e  the  Legs  whereon  the  reft  fupported  be. 
 
 4  For 
 
of  Patience,  izi 
 
 For  fo  the  Learned  fee^ti  to  give  the  Senfc, 
 
 This  Prepardtion  of  the.  Gojpels  Feace^  [ 
 
 To  be  the  brafen  Boots:  of  Patience,      ^ 
 
 Which  doth  defend  from  Thorns  and  Stones  difeafc 
 
 Our  Legs  and  Feet :  And  where  the  Belt  doth  ceafc, 
 Thefe  Boots  of  Patience  Armour  do  fupply, 
 By  which  in  comfleat  zArmoHr  we  do  preafe. 
 And  ftand  undaunted  *gainft  our  Enemy ; 
 This  Vercue  is  the  next  my  Mufe  feeks  to  defcry. 
 
 Which  well  is  cal'd  the  Go^els  Preparation, 
 For  never  any  Patience  true  and  found 
 Can  be  but'  by  the  Gojpels  mediation. 
 The  Heathen  built  not  on  this  certain  ground. 
 
 And  theref6re  this  true  Patience  never  found. 
 Which  but  by  Peace  ofConfcience  none  attain : 
 This  Peace  the  Gojpe I  only  doth  propound 
 By  reconcilement  of  the  Lamb  ('Chrift)  flain  ; 
 Without  this  Peace  ofConfcience  Patience  all  is  vain. 
 
 6  Thou  glorious  God  ox  Peace  and  Patience, 
 
 (  Who  fent'ft  rhine  only  Son  our  fins  to  bear. 
 And  by  his  Suffring  and  Obedience 
 Upon  the  CrofTe  from  guilt  of  fin  to  clear 
 
 All  thofe  to  whom  his  CrofTe  is  fweet  and  dear) 
 Dired  my  Mufe  this  Grace  aright  to  reade. 
 That  knowing  her  I  never  may  forbear 
 To  pradife  Tatience  in  thought,  word,  and  deed. 
 But  to  the  end  my  Life  in  Peace  and  Patience  leade* 
 
 7  Which  is  a  gift  ofGod,  whereby  we  are 
 Inablcd  willingly  and  eonftantlj 
 
 All  croffes  that  God  laies  on  us,  ro  bear. 
 For  Goodnejfe,  Godlinejj'e^  and  Eonefij. 
 Impatience  'tis  to  bear  unwillingly. 
 And  but  an  idle  feigned  falfe  pretence. 
 To  boaft  oi  Virtue  without  Confiancy  : 
 Her  parts  be  four ;  of  which  fome  difference 
 May  fecm  and  firfl,  yet  all  make  but  one  Patience, 
 
 8  The 
 
8  Tbefiyfi  part  is,  firon^  Anger  to  abftain  j 
 TheTf f W  is  a  conftant  Expedation ; 
 The  thir^  is  to  the  end  Right  to  maintain  • 
 The  iaft  confift*  in  willing  Saftentation 
 
 Of  all  afflidions  here,  and  caftigation. 
 But  Man  to  thefe  four  parts  we  only  tie  : 
 For  the  Iaft  pare,  which  doth  confift  in  Pafflof7, 
 Unto  th'cternall  Being  comes  not  nigh. 
 Who's  free  from  all  Jpaion  and  CaUmitj, 
 
 9  Yet  is  he  rightly  cai'd  t\\Q!TatUiit  God, 
 
 And  doth  in  firft  three  named  parts  tranfccnd  : 
 Firfi,  far  from  Anger,  when  he  fparcs  his  Rod, 
 He  doth  ex^Ei  and  ^ait  till  we  amend : 
 
 And  Iaft,  abides  the  fame  unto  the  end  : 
 He  fruitfull  Times  and  Seafons  of  the  Year 
 Unto  the  good  and  bad  alike  doth  fend ; 
 Moft  patiently  doth  with  our  Follies  bear. 
 And  where  he  once  doth  love,  hencver  will  forbear. 
 
 10  Thus  Mercjy  Zeal,  Refentance^  may  be  faid 
 Inexplicably  in  God  to  be ; 
 
 ZealoMs^  yet  not  offended  or  difmaid  : 
 Moft  Merclfull,  yet  grief  did  never  fee  : 
 
 Relenting,  yet  without  remorfe  is  he  ; 
 Moft  Tatient,  yet  without  leaft  pain  or  paffion. 
 Of  Vertues  parts,  which  are  of  Frailty 
 And  weakneiTe,  God  hath  no  participation. 
 Yet  want  they  not  in  Man  their  ufe  and  commendation. 
 
 11  As  is  the  Caufe  and  End  of  Patience^ 
 So  we  her  true  or  counterfeit  efteem ; 
 
 The  Caufe  and  End  do  make  the  difference  : 
 If  we  for  Fancy, Glorj,  Lufl,  Wealth,  fecm 
 
 To  bear  with  Patience,  Hnnger,  Pain,  Cold,  Teen  j 
 This  fuffring,  mifling  her  true  Caufe  and  End, 
 As  falQy  feigned,  counterfeit  we  deem  : 
 But  if  for  doing  well,  or  to  defend 
 The  Truth  we  fuffer,  this  our  Patience  doth  commend. 
 
 12  The 
 
*^  of  Patience.  I2|- 
 
 12  The  greedy  Merchant  fuifers  wreck  for  gain ; 
 
 For  Luft  fome  do  endure  ev^n  bafeft  fhame  ; 
 
 The  Souldier  fpends  his  bloud  for  glory  vain  ; 
 
 Td' Ambitious  venture  all  to  purchafe  Fame ;  ,^ 
 
 Lo,  there  we  carmll  Snds2Lnd  Caufes  name. 
 
 True  Patience  caufcs  honeft  are  and  juft. 
 
 When  for  ill-doing  we  do  fuffer  blame. 
 
 Take  pain  for  Glory,  Honour,  Gain,  or  Lufi, 
 Rewards  like  to  the  Caufe  and  £Wexped  we  muft. 
 
 J  3  But  true  immediate  Ground  o^ Patience 
 Is  the  fweet  Gojpel  (as  I  faid)  of  Peace  i 
 For  Man,  deep  plung'd  in  fin  and  foul  offence. 
 No  Creature  could  Gods^  wrath  bot  Chrift  appeafe. 
 In  (tead  of  Love,  Gods  wrath  on  Man  did  feife, 
 Till  Chrift  concludes  our  Reconciliation, 
 And  us  of  our  offences  do:h  r^leafe. 
 Of  which  the  Gojpe/  is  th' Annunciation  : 
 
 Therefore  is  Patience  cal'd  the  Gojpe/s  f  reparation. 
 
 14  And  therefore  as  her  Canfe  and  End  is  Peace, 
 So  all  her  works  to  inward  Peace  do  tend. 
 Which  in  the  inward  Man  doth  moft  encreafe. 
 When  outward  Wars  feem  moft  him  to  offend. 
 
 She  doth  our  Souls  moft  valiantly  defend, 
 By  patient  bearing  crofTes,  pain,  and  fhame. 
 Which  fhe  with  "Patience  fuffers  to  the  end. 
 Except  they  croffe  the  Glory  of  Gods  Name, 
 Or  Neighbours  good,  which  to  endure  deferveth  blame. 
 
 15  Ihtvcisof  Sin  one  ill,  and  ofte  of  Pain, 
 That  ill  of  Sin  this  Dame  cannot  abide. 
 But  that  of  Punijhment  (he  counteth  gain. 
 Cods  holy  Name  blafphem'd  or  Truth  deni'd,^ 
 
 Or  wicked  Men  Gods  holy  Saints  deride. 
 Is  no  true  Patience  patiently  to  hear. 
 But  on  our  felves  when  croffes  do  betide. 
 Then  Patience  true  doth  patiently  forbear. 
 For  fhe  her  own,  net  others  wrongs,*delight$  to  bear. 
 
 i6If 
 
'l!24  of  Patience, 
 
 3  6  If  one  will  take  her  Coat  in  jur  ioufly , 
 
 She  fuffcreth  fuch  lofle  with  Patience ; 
 
 But  if  of  Faith,  Love^  Truth,  or  Honefiy 
 
 One  would  deprive  her,  that:  is  fuch  offence 
 As  cannot  ft  and  right  with  her  Confcience, 
 
 Sht  private  Wrongs  moft  willingly  doth  hide. 
 
 But  faults-  admitteth  under  no  pretence. 
 
 She  can  endure  Men  (houid  her  felf  deride : 
 But  her  Profeflion  fcorn'd  fhe  no  waies  can  abide. 
 
 17  Com  pell  her  to  a  mile,  Jhe  will  go  twain ; 
 Strike  her  on  ont^Jhe  turns  the  other  Ear ; 
 All  wrongs  done  to  her  felf  (lie  can  fuftain. 
 But  none  done  to  her  Neighbours  (he  can  bear : 
 
 If  (he  to  love  her  felf  commanded  were. 
 She  evil  would  refift  with  ill  again ; 
 But  lo,  her  Lord  refiftance  (^id  forbear. 
 When  he  was  fcoffed,  fcourged,  beaten,  (lain. 
 And  open'd  ncit  his  Mouth  to  curfe  or  to  complain. 
 
 1 8  Afflidions  are  her  Ob jeds,  which  we  findc 
 Divers,  as  they  in  divers  Subjeds  reft, 
 Afflidions  of  the  Body  and  the  Minde, 
 Which  Minde  and  Body  dang'roully  infeft. 
 
 Againft  thefe  Patience  is  alwaies  preft. 
 And  rhem  as  welcome  Friends  doth  entertain ; 
 More  crofTcs  (he  endures,  more  (he  is  bleft, 
 And  knows  through  angui(h,  trouble,  grief,  and  pain, 
 Her  aim,  eternall  Reft,  fhe  in  the  end  (hall  gain. 
 
 1 9  Moft  fweet  Companion  and  moft  welcome  Gueft, 
 To  ev'ry  pair  combinM  in  Amity  : 
 
 The  chief  Maintainer  of  each  joyous  feaft. 
 Begun  in  Wedlock,  Friendfhip,  Charity, 
 
 Sweet  PacronefTe  of  each  Society ; 
 Continuing  all  that  Love  begins  in  Peace  : 
 Moft  facred  Twin  with  fweet  Humility , 
 For  as  one  grows  the  other  doth  encreafe. 
 And  to  attend  on  Love  and  Mercy  never  cetfe. 
 
 z  I  What 
 
O]-  Fatsence,  T2y 
 
 20  What  doth  the  Love  'twixt  Husband  and.the  Wife 
 Then  Patience  More  faft  and  firm,  maintain  I  . 
 Who  keeps  true  Friends  from  difcord,  jarre,  and  ftrife, 
 And  Children  in  their  Parents  love  retain ; 
 
 She  Matters  favour  doth  to  Servants  gain. 
 And  tels  them  they  a  Matter  have  above,. 
 Who  God  moft  patient  doth  aye  remain,  ,  -.^ 
 
 Though  they  to  wrath  him  ev'ry  day  do  move :      ./\ 
 Thus  Patience  preferves  all  Peace  begun  by  Love.  *.,  ^  -| 
 
 21  None  can  afcend  to  glorious  Co/^rf  0/ Zez/^,  ,    -^ 
 But  he  muft  climbe  by  Patience,  bear  mthfain,       '  r 
 Without  this  Patience  all  the  Virtues  prove 
 
 Falfe  fhews,  which  do  no  fubftance  true  retain. 
 
 What  Zoz/f ,  Faith ^  Hope  ?  What  Grace  did  ere  remain 
 Conftant  ?  without  this  gxko^ Patience,    ■■ 
 Therefore  fhc  is  the  Glory  of  Loves  \,mf:i,.. 
 The  Vertues  all  attend  her  Excellence, 
 And  fhc  again  attends  them  all  with  Rceom pence,  ^„-^  ^^^ 
 
 22  Thofc  moft  Heroike  Vertueji,  Fortitude, 
 Prudence,  'foj,  fuftice^  Bountj,  and  the  reft. 
 What  are  they,  if  you  Tatience  exclude. 
 But  ev'n  fo  many  torments  to  moleft 
 
 Mans  Soul,  if  with  aifiidion  once  diftreft  ? 
 Zeal  without  Patience  doth  like  Furj  fpurn ; . 
 Ev*n  heavnly  Knowledge  doth  our  mindes  infeft  : 
 i?f/?f«f^«(re,  like  Hell  fire  doth  Confcience  hum  i 
 Wer't  not  for  Patience,  all  would  to  Confufipn  turn. 
 
 23  Nothing  her  Nature  better  can  exprefle 
 
 Then  her  to  Boots  and  greaves  of  brafTc  compare,  '      ' 
 Which  do  the  Feet  and  Legs  of  Souldiers  drefTe 
 That  in  the  fore-front  of  the  batrell  are  ^' 
 Thus  Hiod  on  Spears,Pricks,Goads,Pikes,  tread  we  dare ; 
 Lofle,Shame,Crofre,Fire,Grief,  Sword, and  Banifhment, 
 Which  would  o'rethrow  us,  if  our  Legs  were  bare ; 
 But  Patience  arms  them  with  fuch  hard.menr. 
 They  paffc  them  over  ail  with  courage  and  content. 
 
 24,  A« 
 
120  OJ  Jfattence. 
 
 24  A^  TcmpFes,  Arches  built  by  cunning  hand 
 Of  Artift,-sktlfull  in  Geometry, 
 Mcreweighft  on  them  is  laid,  more  firm  do  ftand. 
 So  Patience^  more  oppreft  moft  fure  doch  lie. 
 
 No  Storms,  Winde,  Weather,  can  our  Honfe  deftry, 
 Ereded  on  fuch  fiirc  and  fa^  foundation  : 
 Afflidlons  d@  the  jo^^nts  more  ftrongly  tie. 
 And  knit  moft  firm  by  fatient  fuftentation  / 
 
 For  more  fhe  fuffers  here,  more  t%  her  confolation. 
 
 a5  And  as  the  feundnefTe  of  a  firm  foundation 
 Is  belt  difcerri'd  when  moft  weight  on  is  laid ; 
 And  Faith  unfeigned  bcft  tryed  by  temptation, 
 Mercj  moft  feen,  when  Poor  do  want  our  aid  : 
 
 So  ?atknc€  is  moft  glorioudy  difplaid 
 By  Croffes,  Pains,  Difgrace,  Indignities, 
 Which  without  her  our  Solils  would  have  difmaid. 
 And  Bodies  griev'd  with  bafeft  injuries : 
 
 All  Venues  faireft  lliew,  opposed  by  contraries. 
 
 26  Like  as  the  heav'n  above  is  garnifned 
 
 With  Sun, -and  Moon,  and  giilkring  Stars  by  nighr^ 
 So  hath  Gods  Church  been  alwaies  flirniflicd 
 with  fatieftt  Mirrours  to  dired  us  right ; 
 
 Yea,  though  we  had  no  Striprures  us  to  light. 
 Examples  of  th'Eled:  might  be  our  line. 
 To  walk  xnTatience  with  all  our  might, 
 So  they  before  to  us  that  follow,  Ihine ; 
 That  number  Stars,  he  may  that  can  their  narhcs  define. 
 
 27  Begin  we  with  our  iS';^;/' before  the  F loud. 
 Our  patient  Maker ;  How  did  he  forbear  ? 
 Though  Enechs  prophefying  they  withftood. 
 Yet  God  with  their  iniquities  did  bear. 
 
 Until  the  Deluge  up  the  Ark  did  rear. 
 Next  fee  his  patience  and  forbearance  kinde. 
 To  them  that  underneath  the  Covenants  wei'e ; 
 But  moft  his  fuffrance  under  Grace  we  finde ; 
 As  Father  moft  to  love  Xwsjoungeft  is  inclined. 
 
 28  Our 
 
-  ■OfTdtienct.  Tiy 
 
 28  Our  Saviour  next,  whofe  Ufi?,  Death,  Suffring,  Sitamc 
 
 To  us^WT^tietJce  doth  repfrefent  : 
 {  JVVherel^y  all  Chriftians  ought  themfelyes  to  fr^  ' 
 following  his  foot-fteps  who  before  ps  went,  ^  ,*' 
 Who  ne'redid  fin,  nor  ever  guile  mvent :  /  '  .  '^. 
 Yet  whenhe  fufferM,  threatned  not  to  fmite,:  -"'jP' 
 But  dumb  like  to  a  Lamb  moft  innocent  ^    '  -'  ' 
 
 Commits  his  Caufe  to  lii^  that  judgeth  right. 
 Bearing  on  Croffe  our  fins,  that  he  redeemtw  might, 
 
 ^9  Now  follow  Stars  whit'h  do  receive  their  light  '^  ^ 
 
 From  that  moft  glorious  Suft  of  Patience ; 
 
 Meek  Ahel  flain  by  cruetl  C<«/»/  defpitc ; 
 
 Noe  Preacher  to  th^old  World  of  Penitence, 
 Bearing  feoffs,  fcorns,  for  his  Obedience  ; 
 
 Abram  for  lakes  his  Kindred,  Houfc,  and  Land,  ; 
 
 And  patiently  a  ftranger  dwels  in  Tents : 
 
 At  ninety' nine  is  circurticifed,  and 
 His  dear  fon  ifdac  offers  at  his  Lords  command. 
 
 3  o  See  ifddcfdtient  to  etribrace  the  Knife  : 
 faceb  enduring  churlifh  Zdbans  wrong ; 
 His  Z)>W/Rape,  his  S'OTik  moft  cruel!  ftrifc; 
 With  J^o/f;?/?  who  endured  prjfon "ft rong. 
 
 For  doing  well ;  who  can  cxpreffe  nis  long ' 
 True  P4r;>;;rf ,  that  did  Pto^ij^j  pleafures  leavc^ 
 To  fuffer  pain  his  Brethren  atnong  >,  /    "\      \        / 
 Yet  meekeft  yT/o/^j  did;ftofe-Tabks  yfe^^  '  ^  , 
 
 When  Zealo^Qo^s  grestt  Glory  did  hisi ferife^ereavei  " 
 
 %  I  How  patieirdy  did  h%  i)avid  Bear' ;.: . ,  '  .  ^'V '  ;^^,C  t 
 Sauls  perfecution^,  waitirig  for  his  Crbtvn  ?  •    '  ' '  '" 
 When  he  his  skir  t  cut  off,  cock  lip  his  Spear  : 
 Yet  would  not  let  Abifai  fmite  him  down. 
 
 But  none  for  Patie^ceiikc  to  fob  is  known  : 
 Lo,  Chrift  hirafelf  the  Patience  doth  commend 
 That  Prophets,  Priefts,  and  Marrvrs  have  us  fliown, 
 Ail  which  in  brief  the  Trkth  tor  to  defend. 
 
 Have  without  grudging  held  out  conftant  to  the  end. 
 
32  All  wreftled  in  this  Field  oi Patience ; 
 
 Some  fcorns,  ftripes,  fetters,  prifonment  full'ain  : 
 Some  racking,  fawing,  broiling,  banifhments  :     (  flayn 
 Somcfcourg'd  with  rods,  with   fword  fome  have  bee 
 
 In  Shecp-skins,Goat-skins,rome  to  walk  were  fain  ^ 
 Of  which  the  world  in  no  wife  worthy  were. 
 Ail  wildred  on  the  Mountains  and  the  Plain, 
 In  earthly  Dens  and  Caves  lay  hid  for  fear ; 
 Thcfe  all  by  Faith  in  Chrift  oY  Patience  followers  are. 
 
 33  When  I  the  Lives  of  Holy  Martyrs  reade. 
 And  what  great  torments  here  they  fuffered. 
 As  Members  fympathizing  with  the  Head ; 
 Sainc  £^^rf»ff  on  a  gridyroh  tortured, 
 
 Who  at^'s  Tormentors  never  murmured. 
 But  pray'd  them  only  turn  the  other  fide, 
 For  one  was  broylM  enoqgh  and  martyred : 
 And  *  her  that  did  moft  p'ainfulf  death  abide,  *  Petaviandi 
 Whom  with  hot  fcalding  pitch  from  top  to  toe  they  tride. 
 
 3  4  Should  I  here  wifti  their  Patience  or  their  "Pain  f 
 No  fure,  I  wifh  both  Pain  and  Patience :  ''^ 
 The  more  I  fuffer  here  the  morc's  my  gain ; 
 The  greater  loITe,  the  greater  rccompence, 
 
 Ah,  this  to  fleih  and  bloud  is  fore  offence. 
 And  unto  carnall-minded,  enmity. 
 That  take  delight  in  pleafing  of  the  Senfe, 
 Their  Nofe  with  fmels,  their  Touch  with  luxury ; 
 
 Their  Tafte,Eyes,  Ears,  their  Heart  and  all  with  vanity, 
 
 35  Though  thou  efcape  croffe,  feourging,  fword  and  fire ; 
 Yet  furely,  if  thou  liv'ft  the  life  oi Grace, 
 And  walk'll  uprightly  as  Gods  Laws  require  : 
 Flefti,  World,  and  Devil  chee  will  feek  to  chace. 
 
 As  peevifh,  fingular,  vain,  foolifh,  bafe  ; 
 Yea,  wicked  Men  thy  Patience  to  try ; 
 Will  thee  deride,  difhonour,  fcorn,  difgrace  ; 
 We  Patience  (hew  in  bearing  injury 
 
 For  Chrift,  as  well  as  thofe  that  for  the  Trnth  do  die. 
 
 36  Lord 
 
V)  imivm^. TT9 
 
 3  6  Lord  grant  me  Patiis  true  conftant  refolutionj 
 
 t^ot  only  for  thy  Names  fake  to  be  bound. 
 
 But  willingly  to  fuffer  diflblution. 
 
 Some  fcorching  flames  like  beds  of  down  have  foundj 
 In  fome  fuch  inward  comfort  did  abound^ 
 
 Whenas  they  fuffred  for  Chrifts  holy  Name, 
 
 For  fign  of  inward  joy  and  comfort  found. 
 
 Their  hands  they  lift  up  to  exprefle  the  fame; 
 Till  they  confumed  were  ev'n  by  the  fcorching  flame; 
 
 37  It  was  th'Apofties  triumph  and  delight. 
 To  be  accounted  worthy  for  Chrifts  fake 
 To  fuffer  fcourging,  prifon,  (hame,  defpite. 
 Which  did  them  way  to  Crowns  and  Glorj  make  : 
 
 More  happy  'tis  to  fuffer  at  a  ftakc 
 For  Truth,  then  end  our  daies  in  eafc  and  reft  ; 
 7*W  for  a  wondrous  favour  did  it  take, 
 That  he  not  only  to  beleeve  was  bieft,  . 
 
 But  that  he  fuffercd  more  for  Chrift  then  all  the  reft. 
 
 38  The  abjed  and  off-skowring  of  the  World, 
 A  gaxiiig-ftock  to  Angels  and  to  Men,- 
 
 Pen  11  on  Land,  on  Seas,  with  Tempeft  whirld. 
 Peril  of  Beafts,  and  of  falfe  Brethren,  (thin, 
 
 MockM,?fcourg'd,  bound,  ftock'd,  cold,  hungry ,naked, 
 Laft,  Satahs  buffeciing  fpiricuall : 
 I  here  lliould  tire  my  Reader  and  my  Pen, 
 If  I  his  croffes  all  to  minde  fhould  call, 
 Yet  he  with  conftant  Patience  conquered  them  all'. 
 
 3  9  So  they  that  truly  love  will  ought  endura 
 
 For  his  fake  only  they  fo  truly  love. 
 
 Lord  grant  me  Love^  for  then  I  may  be  fure^ 
 
 In  all  afflidions  patient  to  prove  : 
 No  power  of  Men  or  Hell  their  fouls  can  move,- 
 ^    That  build  upon  fo  good  apd  ftrong  foundation, 
 I    Temptation  may  us  ftiake  but  not  remove 
 
 From  Love,  the  ground  and  pillar  of  falvation. 
 Love  is  the  Caufe  of  ours,  as  of  our  Saviours  paflron. 
 
 K  40  This 
 
40  This feafon^ali affiidions, erodes, patn^ 
 
 Makes  Death  our  Gate  to  Heav'n ;  the  Grave  our  reft-. 
 This  makes  our  P^nV;^d-p  period,  and  doth  gain  '  ' 
 Us  Hcav'n  as  fure  as  if  we  were  pofleft. 
 
 ThtGod^fPatiencehttvtxhk^^ 
 The  End  and  Authour  of  my  Meditation, 
 And  grant  I  conftantly  may  ever  reft 
 Upon  his  Love  in  Chrift  my  fure  foundation, 
 
 Whofe  Patience  paid  my  price  o^ RecoacUiafion. 
 
 MEDI 
 
131 
 
 M  E  D  I  T  A  T.      V. 
 
 of  Fortitude. 
 
 L  Valknt  Captains  of  the  facred  Hoft      (Hell' 
 O^ Loves  high  ^ueen  that  fight  'gainft  Hate  & 
 Chrifts  Souidiers  mufter  up  from  ev'ry  coaft. 
 And  them  to  ftand  in  complcteArms  compeil, 
 That  Sataus  fiery  darts  they  may  r^pell. 
 But  as  in  worldly  Battels,  Arms  are  vain. 
 If  Cowards  hearcs  do  faint,  or  courage  quell: 
 So  in  this  fpirituall  Warfare  all  are  (Iain, 
 That  with  true  Fortitude  chis  fight  cannot  maintain. 
 
 2  I  therefore  her.  Loves  valiant  Generally 
 And  chief  Commandreffe  of  her  Forces  name , 
 For  that  the  moil  brave  Sp'rits  heroicall, 
 j    Have  alwaies  had  their  honour  from  this  Dawe 
 
 Amongft  the  Heathen  men  that  fought  for  Fame, 
 This />7rf;^v^  was  in  fuch  great  eftimation. 
 Of  hcav'niy  Seed  they  thought  their  Herd's  came, 
 Expeding  not  from  humane  propagation 
 uch  worth  ;  except  the  Gods  concurred  in  Generation. 
 
 And  therefore  thofe  whofe  valofir  did  tranfcend 
 The  ordinary  reach  of  humane  Race, 
 By  Pedigrees  are  iinM  out  to  defcend 
 From  'foves  or  Tonje  great  Deities  embrace  : 
 
 Thus  m  a  mift  they  fcem  the  Truth  to  trace^ 
 tor  Vert  fie' s^]k  (but  cfiicfly  Fortitude) 
 Are  nothgdtten^hut itjfsts'd  hy  Grace, 
 And  in  Kings  hearts  in  larger  amplitude, 
 s  they  it  need  more  therA  the  common  multitude, 
 
 X2 -^- 
 
1  3-*-  ^1  ruriiitiac. 
 
 4f  For  as  fmall  Brooks  mod  fair  and  goedly  feem, 
 Wbcn  little  Cbanncls  do  their  courfe  maintain  ; 
 Yet  vpouid  a  Man  them  fcarceiy  Waters  deem, 
 If  they  drilling  in  fome  River  main  : 
 
 Ev'n  fo  a  SttbjeBs  heart  that  doth  contain 
 True  Fortittide,  but  in  a  meafure  fmall, 
 Great  glory  to  himfelf  thereby  may  gain. 
 But  if  in  Princes  heart  the  fame  fliould  fall. 
 
 It  fcarceiy  would  be  counted  Fortitude  at  all. 
 
 5  Wherefore  the  Hearts  of  Kings  are  faid  to  be 
 Like  A4lghtj  Rivers  in  th' Almighties  hand, 
 ^rom  which  as  from  a  little  Ocean,  he 
 Difpofeth  pvater  over  all  the  Land  : 
 
 His  Nohles,  which  about  like  Brooks  do  ihnd, 
 Refrefh  and  water  ev'ry  Bale  and  Plain^ 
 As  from  their  Soveraign  they  have  command. 
 But  all  draw  Water  from  onf  Ocpan  main, 
 W'hither  all  Tribute  muft  return  with  thanks  again. 
 
 6  God  grant  by  me  may  rightly  be  defin'd 
 Brave  Fortitndey  which  twofold  I  do  name, 
 Of  Body  one,  the  other  of  the  Minde  ; 
 This  Fortitucie  of  Bodj  is  the  fame 
 
 We  common  have  with  Beafts  both  wiide  and  tame, 
 Entreaft  by  fecding,ftrength,good  conftitution  j 
 In  llout  fuitaining  is  her  greatell  fame. 
 Next  in  on-fetting  with  brave  refolution  : 
 This  helgs  in  war^  but  mindes  it  beft  in  perfecution. 
 
 7  T  twofold  likewife  call  that  of  the  -J^tinde, 
 One  true,  the  other  that  which  Men  do  fain. 
 When  for  falfe  ends  we  nobly  are  enclin'd. 
 Or  when  thefe  Caufes  following  conftrain  ; 
 Pi:jJtony  Experience,  Ignorance,  Art,  Cain. 
 PaJJiGH  of  fear,  of  Ff^ry,  Hope^  and  <*Anger ; 
 By  chefc  we  mighty  things  do  oft  darraign, 
 l.xptrio.ce.  Art,  make  us  to  dread  no  danger, 
 
 F>^  .  r.'4orance,  and  for  (7.z/»  wc  boldly  Life  endanger. 
 
 8  For 
 
of  Fortitude.  1 3  3 
 
 8  Votfear  of  danger,  and  t'avoid  difgracc, 
 The  Coward  (iint  will  like  a  Dragon  fight ; 
 Who  can  withftand  the  furj  of  the  Baft  > 
 Experience,  Art  prevail  oft  againft  might ; 
 
 And  Jgnerance  of  danger  doth  incite 
 ■Ihtfearfull,  great  atchievements  to  adventer, 
 Ckfiom  of^ff^inning  makes  us  oft  in  fpitc 
 Of  Fate  and  Fortune  into  Battels  enter  : 
 By  Sea,  for  hope  of  gain,  fome  to  the  Indies  venter.    • 
 
 9  But  Fortitude  which  doth  prepare  the  Minde 
 For  God  and  Goodnefle  chearflilly  to  die. 
 Is  that  brave  Virtue  formerly  defin'd, 
 Which  Death  nor  Hell  it  feif  can  terrific  : 
 
 By  this  we  only  on  the  Lord  rely. 
 And  ftrong  in  God,  and  Power  of  his  might. 
 Put  on  our  arms  to  fight  moft  valiantly. 
 Faith,  Hope^  and  Truth,  with  Patience,  Juftice,  Right, 
 And  with  the  jpirituall  Sword  undantedly  do  fight. 
 
 10  Thougli  of  our  felvcs  we  no  more  able  are 
 
 .    T  hcfe  mighty  Arms  to  wear  and  weild  aright. 
 
 Then  little  David  was  King  Sauls  to  bear, 
 
 When  he  Goliath  met  in  fingle  fight ; 
 Yet,  if  Gods  power  we  confider  right. 
 
 And  fet  by  all  the  worldly  ftrength  we  have. 
 
 Relying  on  his  providence  and  might. 
 
 As  David  we  may  fay,  with  courage  brave. 
 Who  me  from  Bear  and  Lion^  from  all  harm  (hail  favc. 
 
 1 1  For  from  the  Lord  is  all  fufficiency. 
 Our  Enemies  in  Chrift  we  nothing  fear. 
 But  fight  Gods  Battels  moft  couragioufly, 
 In  whom  we  able  to  do  all  things  are  : 
 
 And  as  he  fhame  cndur'd  «md  croffe  did  bear. 
 So  Souldiers  of  our  valiant  GeneraU^ 
 We  with  undaunted  rcfolution  dare 
 Oppofe  the  trorld,  Flejh,  Sin,  and  T>evils  all ; 
 Whofe  Faifh  (lands  firm  in  Chrift,what  dread  Ccn  him  apall? 
 
 K  ?  12  Thonrth 
 
134  ^J  J^orntHde. 
 
 12  Though  j^rnVW/^EwfT^j/Vj- do  more  abound         \.    " 
 In  number,  Malice,  Strength,  and  Policy,  \\AT 
 
 Yet  by  th^ic  JpHt mil  ^eafons  we  confound  .  4^ . 
 
 Them  all,  triumphing  on  them  valiantly  :  '  ^  ' 
 
 This  Jpiritftall  (Irength  grows  in  us  inwardly. 
 As  doth  the  new  and  inward  Man  revive  I 
 
 Which  ftronger  grows^as  our  corruptions  die. 
 And  by  the  Flcfhes  weaknefle  moft  doth  thrive, 
 
 And  when  the  Bcdfs  dead, prefer ves  our  Soffis  alive.    ^,, 
 
 1 3    Our  Soul,  the  fubjed  of  true  Fortitude^  ,r|  ^  ^  | 
 
 Not  giv'n  by  Nature,  but  infus'd  by  Grace,  7      '  1 
 
 The  fpint  of  Man  it  is  that  doth  include 
 
 This  molt  heroiive  Virtue  :  'Tis  not  place,  " 
 Wealth  and  preferment,  or  a  noble  Race, 
 
 And  Breeding  that  doth  raifefo  high  the  Minde, 
 
 To  co'jnt  all  fading  Objeds  vain  and  bafe, 
 
 And  wholly  be  to  hcav'nly  things  inclined, 
 Whereby  our  ftrength  above  all  earthly  things  we  iinde„ 
 
 1 4  True  Fortitude  is  born  ev'n  from  above. 
 And  in  Loves  Court  is  of  fuch  high  regard. 
 That  none  couragious  are  but  they  charti/f. 
 And  of  their  v^ilour  hope  for  XofTj  reyi^aird. 
 
 Love  conquers  all :  oh  1  What  c,jjn,be  comparM 
 To  mighty  CAEIs  of  Love  ?  whofe  jeajous  ire 
 Confumes  all  that  her  Grace  do  not  regard, 
 Oh  1  what  is  ftronger  Loves  hot  defire? 
 
 None  e're  without  her  did  to,  noble  a^s  afpire. 
 
 1 5   (  ^ojlouds  ef  tears  arc  able  to  difgrac^ 
 The  refolution  of  brave  Fortitude, 
 Vv^hich  like  pure  Diamonds  adorn.her  face. 
 And  from  her  all  hardheartedne.Tcf^lude  : 
 
 Oh,  m.ay  mine  eyes  like  Fountains  be  endude     • 
 With  flouds  in  War  my  panting  Soul  to  cool. 
 '  lis  Satans  policy  firft  to  exclude 
 From  quenching  waters  the  beficged  Soul, 
 
 Then  burn  the  town  with  fire  when  he  hath  ftopt  the  Pool.) 
 
 16  When 
 
of  Fortitude.  135 
 
 }6  When  valiant  G'i^^o;*  went  out  to  fight 
 With  Midian,  God  made  a  Proclamation, 
 Who  dreaded  or  did  fear  the  Enemies  might. 
 Return  (hould  to  their  People  and  their  Nation  ; 
 
 And  (hall  we  in  thlsjpmtualldimicatiofj, 
 Hope  to  withftand  our^^oi?/y  £;?fw/fx. 
 Except  our  Hearts  be  ftrengthned  ■  gainft  tentation^ 
 To  fight  with  Powers^  Principalities, 
 
 And  by  true  Fortitude  to  tread  down  injuries  ? 
 
 17  Wherefore  the  Son  of  ^ir^fi?,4pth  GOJTipare 
 The  heart  of  Fools  to  an  high  plaft  Ved  wall. 
 Which  ftorms  of  winde  and  winter  cannot  bear^ 
 But  (haking,-tottering,  at  length  doth  fall ; 
 
 Imaginations  vain  his  heart  apall; 
 But  a  wife  heart,  that  is  eftabliftied 
 Bycounfell,  to  a  ftrbng  and  {lately  Hall, 
 With  Beams  and  Ligaments  fo  coupeled 
 As  it  of  Windes  and  Tempefts  never  ftands  in  dread. 
 
 1 8  As  Harts  huge  Horns  him  profit  not  at  all. 
 By  reafon  of  his  faint  and  fearfuU  heart; 
 So  Chriflian  Armouryedds  defence  as  fmall. 
 If  diffidence  our  Fortitude  pervert. 
 
 And  as  none  proudlier  march  then  (lately  Hart, 
 In  Summer  fair  of  his  profperity. 
 But  if  he  hear  apogge,  or  fee  a  Dart, 
 Doth  faint  for  fear  and  flyeth  cowardly ; 
 So  doth  the  Man  whom  God  doth  Fortitude  deny. 
 
 J  9  The  heart  of  Man's  like  Pilot  in  a  Ship, 
 Whofe  cunning  in  calm  weather  is  unfeen. 
 But  if  Windes  blow,  and  Waves  to  Heav'n  up  skip. 
 And  all  in  danger  great  of  drrowning  dreen. 
 
 Then  both  his  skill  and  courage  may  be  fecn  : 
 Then  though  tlie  Sails  be  rent  and  Ship  be  torn. 
 He  faints  not  till  the  widied  Port  he  win  ; 
 So  though  our  Fle(h  here's  tortur'd  and  forlotii. 
 
 Yet  by  true  Fortitude  we  to  our  Hav'n  are  born. 
 
 .         K  4  20  As 
 
10  OfFtrritudt. 
 
 20  As'BrAnches  of  the  Palm^tht  more  Of  ^tt:^ 
 With  burthens  nearer  Heav'n  thcmfeives  do  raifc  * 
 So  Fortitude  in  valiant  Chriftians  breaft. 
 The  more  afTaulted,  merits  greater  praife  : 
 
 And  as  tho^e  boughs  are  ftronger  found  afwaics, 
 That  are  opposM  to  J^oreas  boyflrous  blail:. 
 Then  thofe  on  whom  the  South  and  Weft  windc  playi. 
 So  that  Mens  minde  doth  ftand  moft  fii  m  and  faft , 
 Who  hath  through  greateft  perils  and  tentations  paft. 
 
 2 1  With  heathen  fcarce  a  Man  of  War  wa^  found, 
 Able  in  Peace  to  conquer  injury  ; 
 The  godly  in  examples  do  abound, 
 Of  futfcring  and  doing  valiantly. 
 
 Let  captiv'd  Lot  declare  how  mightiiy^; 
 From  mighty  Kings  him  Abram  fuccoured. 
 Which  fhews  his  ftrcngth  and  magnanimity. 
 But  his  mind's  valour,  when  he  fuffercd 
 Cold,  Famine,  Banifhment,  his  own  Son  flaughtcrcd. 
 
 2Z  Moll  Princely  ^<:?ro^vyith  God  wreftdledf. 
 And  therefore  better  might  with  men  prevail, 
 Yet  how  was  he  by  Lahan  injured  >    '  , '''       • 
 His  brother  Ffau  did  his  life  affai!. 
 
 Yet  ftrong  in  God  his  heart  did  np cr  fail, 
 Mot,  when  at  Mahanim' he  met  Gods  Hoaft  •" 
 And  Efau,  with  four  hundred,  did  he  quail/ 
 Q'ijofuah'^  valour  may  all  fudah  boaft; 
 
 But  of  thera  all  herein  may  David  ^ory  ftioft, 
 
 23    aApocrj f  hull ^TQ  Storks,  not  t]\Qfa[ls, 
 Of  J/^c-/7^^.€?^  and  his  Brethren  ; 
 Whofe  noble  Fortittfde  and  valiant  A&Sy 
 Tranfcend  the  courage  of  all  mortall  Men. 
 
 Oh  !  wondrous  prowefTe  which  they  (hewed  then, 
 For  to  defend  thqir  Laws  and  Liberty, 
 Their  Temples,  Cities,\Vives,and  Childcren, 
 From  proplianation  by  Idolatry,        ,         ' 
 
 And  from  the  bondage.of  an  Heathen  enemy. 
 
 iij  iiJoi. 
 
of  Fortitude.  1 37 
 
 14  I  might  ofMofes,  CaUb^  Gedeon  tell, 
 Jeftha,  Joh^Sanffon,  Ai'z;^^/ Worthies  thrcc, 
 That  through  an  Hoaft  drew  Water  from  a  Well ; 
 Ev'n  millions  of  examples  you  may  fee 
 
 Of  Saints,  which  in  Gods  Book  our  paterns  be. 
 As  Children  three  which  would  endure  the  flame 
 Before  they  would  commit  idolatry ; 
 Of  all  the  Apoftles  only  T^WIname, 
 
 Whofc  Fortitude  in  God  dcferves  eternall  fame. 
 
 25  What  I  are  the  Servants  greater  then  their  Lord  f 
 No  ;  ail  the  ftrength  that  did  in  tiiem  abound, 
 He  of  his  fulneffe  did  to  tnem  afford, 
 In  wliom  aii  perfed  Fortitude  was  found  !   . 
 
 Whom  when  he  did  cqnverfe  with  Men  on  ground. 
 No  Devil,  Power,  terrour  could  difmay  : 
 And  that  he  might,  at  laft,  Hels  powers  confound. 
 His  Life,  on  curfed  Croffe,  ev'n  down  did  lay. ; 
 
 Sad  Night !  But  lo,  His  rifing  brings  a  joyfiiil  Day 
 
 16  What?  Shall  I  here  all >row^»-)^We  excWe^ 
 
 As  Subjefts  mean  for  this  Heroike  Grace  f 
 
 No  :  In  the  minde  is  feat  of  Fortitude, 
 
 And  oft  in  Female  hrefif  obtains  high  yjace,  (  V  : : , 
 
 'Tis  not  proud  Looks,  mens  Tire,  ftout  Speech,  i^oid 
 
 Can  Women  for  true  Fortitude  commend  t 
 
 No  Virpfie  like  to  Modefty  doth  grace 
 
 That  Sex,  and  beft  their  Honour  doth  defend : 
 [n  this  the  biraveft  Women  alwaies  did  tranfcend. 
 
 37  By  JDf^or^'j  courage  J?^r4r  did  prevail. 
 
 And  'lael  him  from  S  if  era  did  free, 
 
 Moft  modcft  Judith  durft  the  Head  affaij 
 
 Of  Hoiofernes ;    Hefter  next  I  fee 
 Bring  Baman  urto  ftiame  for  Mordochee  : 
 
 Shall  i  name  one  that  doth  furmount  them.all  I 
 
 Lo,  our  late  Queen  Elix^abeth  was  (he. 
 
 Yet  was  moft  modeft,  (hamefac't.  Virginal!  ; 
 ft.ll  Female  bolilnefle  Impudence,  not  Grace  wc  call. 
 
13?.  of  JPonitude, 
 
 28  But  we  return  to  Por^/rWf  within,  >         ., 
 By  which  we  fight  'gainft  fpiricuall  enemies 
 World,  Deyi^,Tlefh,  and  6m  originall  Sin, 
 Hell,  Empites,  Powers,  Principalities, 
 
 To  OMX  Jpirituafl  Peace  all  enmities  .       "   ' 
 Againft  thefe,  for  our  fafegard,  we  embrace 
 All /^^■m5/^//'G'r^<:f^,  as  fure  remedies ; 
 Ah  1  how  dare  they  look  Satan  in  the  face, ' 
 That  are  quite  deftitate  of  all  trnefaving  (jTAUf  \^j. 
 
 29  Alas !  what  ftrength  have  they  then  that,  depend 
 Upon  the  P<)^e  and  his  Sui^r^maey^ 
 
 Or  hope  his  holy'fVatey  can  defend 
 Them  from  this  ftrong  and  fubtle  enemy  > 
 
 faints  ReliqueSy   Buls^  Beads,  and  fuch  trumpery. 
 Are  now  the  only  weapons  they  muft  wear ; 
 Their  ^gnm  Deis  do  fo  terrific 
 The  Devil,  ?ind  away  ill  IpiritsTcare, 
 Itor  ot\\Qx  jpirihial  ArmoHTy  now  they  need  not  care. 
 
 30  How  hope  they  to  be  able  to  wichftand 
 The  Serpents  malice,  and  the  Worlds  defpite. 
 Who  lay  by  Arms,  and  loofe  and  idle  ftahd. 
 Not  buckling  themfelvcs  unto  the  fight  ?'    ' 
 
 As  Arms  were,  like  apparell,  for  delight,  .    . 
 
 Or  for  fporc  only,  and  a  glittehng  (liow,  /j^^'^V' ■  r 
 
 Thefe  fainting  heai-ts  that  are  afraid  to  figh^,**' '  ' 
 
 Vain  Fools  that  never  yet  Hels  ftrength  di/1  know, 
 
 Which  at  the  firfl:  encounter  them  will  overthirpw; 
 
 3 1  Alas  1  ev*n  too  too  many  now  adaies, 
 LikeGallantsof  our  time,  make  goodly  ftiow  ,^ 
 In  glitcVing  Arms,  and  brag  great  might  in  Frayes  j ',. 
 But  come  where  danger  to  their  life  may  grow. 
 
 They  then  away  both  Arms  and  rvea^dns  throw. 
 Thus  chey  abufe  the  knowledge  God  doth  lend. 
 Unco  their  riiihe  and  their  overthrow, 
 Wantlmg  true  valour  Trmh  for  to  defend,  .' 
 
 And  Chrtftian  fortitude  to  hold  out  to  the  End. 
 
 ^  2  My 
 
pfFortitudel  139 
 
 \%  Myonly  wi{his,evertobcftrong 
 In  God  and  ip  the  power  of  his  Mig1it,~ 
 Cafting  oS  all  things  that  do  not  belong 
 Unto  the  thri'fiian  Battelll  rauft  fighi;-;    .  ..  .,^;t.  .,^tj 
 
 Oh  I  who  in  wars  can  ferve  his  Pr%,fj4rig{it,-  '.^/^' ' 
 That  doth  himfelf  with  fT-^^/^^^^jf^^'^vei^t^^^         .'  _  , 
 With  JpiritfiallfVeapons  \yemaintainthif  fight. 
 And  not  with  cunning,  at  tfii|?  *Bar  to  jangle. 
 
 We  here  muftjfight  for  0%  aiidnpt  |or  ,pr<>fit  wr^^^^ 
 
 3  3   I  here  confefle  mine  inward  fir  ength  is  vain. 
 Unable  to  withftand  fuch  enemies. 
 That  I  to  feek  out  of  my  fe!f  am  fain. 
 For  help  againft  Hels  powr's  and  policies ; 
 So  many  are  my  known  infirmities, 
 ^^  I  mine  owA  ftrength  do  i^ftterjy  diftruft, . 
 ■  Hoping  ihf  grace  tba!aHV)ur  wii^ts  fHj)pl4€s^ 
 
 Will  ftrengthen  me  ag^titft  HeUi^i^i^ajtfift,  . 
 Since  in  no  finite  Power  but  infinite  I  truft. 
 
 34  Oh,  grant  me  firm  on  thine  Ontnifotent^ 
 
 In  crofTes  and  afflidions  to  rely. 
 
 And  wholly  to  renounce  all  confidence. 
 
 Mans  ftrength,  or  hope  in  Princes,  can  fupply  : 
 Who,  under  (hadow  of  thy  Wings  do  lie. 
 
 No  forraign  Power,  nor  inward  dread  can  fear. 
 
 Thy  ftrength  is  feen  moft  in  infirmity. 
 
 In  thee  we  able  to  do  all  things  are. 
 By  force  of  thy  great  Might  we  ought  adventure  dare* 
 
 3  5  Great  is  the  Power  wherein  We  do  truft, 
 
 A  mghty  T^ower  and  exceeding  ftrong. 
 
 Able  to  raife  our  Bodies  fr6m  the  duft. 
 
 And  to  Eternity  our  life  prolong : 
 All  pow'r  from  God,  to  God  all  doth  belong. 
 
 Why  th^irihould'ft  thou  my  Soul  diftruft  or  quail  > 
 
 On  him  rely,  and  none  can  do  thee  wrong  .- 
 
 Thine  Heart  and  Confcience  Satan  may  affai], 
 But  by  Gods  help,  thou  (halt  againft  them  all  prevail. 
 
 IoSgl 
 
IJLO  of  FoHitude, 
 
 36  So  by  this  mighty  Power  we  fhall  at  length 
 Be  ViBors,  though  Sin  feem  us  here  to  foil : 
 Lord  grant  me  wisjpmtuall  p6w*r  and  Strength, 
 That  though  my  Body  fuffer  here  a  while. 
 
 And  like  a  Coward  oft  doth  take  the  foil ; 
 I  may  with  courage  fo  my  SoUl  defend, 
 No  Power  me  may  of  fpiritHall  Arms  defpoil 
 Lord  grant  I  praftife  may  what  I  commend, 
 So  I,  with  praifc  my  Book  and  Meditation  end. 
 
 TH 
 
HI 
 
 THE    BRIDES 
 
 ORNAMENTS. 
 
 The  Third  "Bool. 
 
 M  fi  D  I  T  A  T.     L 
 
 ofHeAvenlj  Kn$wled^. 
 
 Daily  Warfare  is  a  Chriftians  life. 
 Where  SouUkrs  all  not  only  ftand  in  need 
 Of  Arms  and  Valour  (to  maintain  the  ftrife 
 The  curfed  Serpent  makes  with  Adams  ittdi 
 But  of  this  Treafure^K now led^, both  to  ike 
 Their  Souh  with/Wmoft  pure  Celeftiall, 
 And  ftirniih  with  fuch  '^eafons  as  they  need ; 
 I  therefore  her  Loves  TreAfurer  do  call. 
 For  we  in  daily  want  ftand  of  her  Treafure  all. 
 
 2  By  feigced  Treafure  did  the  Serpent  train 
 Our  two  firft  Parents  to  their  curfed  fin ; 
 Pretending  they  (hould  goodly  Treafttre  gain. 
 And  Knmledge  both  of  good  and  evil^  win  : 
 But ^W  doth  end  where  evil  ^oih  begin ; 
 For  drofle  they  do  exchange  their  purcft  goldf 
 The  Serpent  bad  without,  tiiemfelves  within, 
 They  finde  the  evil,  as  the  Serpent  told  : 
 
 But  up  to  Heav'ti  flies  good,  which  can  no  iK  behold. 
 
 3  Thui 
 
142  Oj  ti  e itv e my  Kmro ledge, 
 
 3  Thus  all  omTreafures  loft  we  had  before, 
 Tfe  Knowledge  otCods  natnre  and  his  ^iU, 
 Anrf  we  become  unarm'd,  rude,  naked,  poor  • 
 Ot  all  things  ignorant,  but  doing  ill : 
 
 Now  us  our  enemies-may  cafily  kill. 
 We  having  loft  oUr  ^'ca^ons  and  our  treafure : 
 Which  Vcealth  and  deafens  if  regain  we  will. 
 We  muft  attend  t-his  heavenly  Ladies  pleafure  : 
 Divine  fweet  Knowledge  not  confin'd  by  weight  or  meaftireo' 
 
 4  Thou  pf^ord  InQarnate  I  whom,  aright  to  know 
 Is  Life  eternallyj5)y^  ^nd  happy  reft. 
 
 To  me  this  Ladies  wondrous  Beauty  {how. 
 And  richeft  Treaffires,  which  m  golden  Cheft, 
 
 Thou  hid'ft  ftom  Hell  and  malice  of  the  Beaft ; 
 Knowledge,  contained  in  either  Tcftament : 
 Wherein  thy  Will  and  Nature  is  expreft 
 How  we  fliould  live  and  Serpents  fting  prevent, 
 How  conquer  Hell,  and  ferve  thee  with  a  true  intent. 
 
 5  Some  Knowledge  call,  th' habit  of  demonft ration y 
 Some  her  to  know  by  caufes  do  deiine ; 
 Some  th'ZJnderJlandtngs  found  determination. 
 We  her  to  heav'nly  DoBrine  here  confine : 
 
 Which  in  a  threefold  Bookjo  n^an  doth  (bine, 
 O^ Creatures ,  firfi ,  and  latter'Tefiament, 
 The  Bookjf  Creatures  (hews  Gods  power  divine^ 
 The  La^  IS  much  in  tjpes  -dndjhadows  fpent. 
 Whereof  the  Gojpelis  the  full  accomplilhment. 
 
 6  In  Bodk^of  Creatures  all  men  may  obfervc 
 .Gods  fVifedomyGoodaeJI'e , Power ^and  Providence, 
 By  which  he  made  the  world  and  doth  preferve 
 In  trueft  motions,  its  circumference  : 
 
 Sending  from  Hcav'n  rains  fwecceft  influences 
 Filling  our  hearts  with  Mirth  and  joyfulneffe ; 
 And  giving  all  things.  Motion^  Being,  Senfe, 
 This  doth  Gods  power  and  God-head  plain  exprefle. 
 But  not  his  jrill,  which  leads  to  endlefie  happinefle. 
 
Of  neavenij  Knorvledgs/  TJ^^ 
 
 1  Yet  by  this  Book  are  left  without  excufc 
 
 Idolaters  who  down  to  fiock^  do  fall ; 
 
 Which  their  own  hands  have  made  for  fuch  abufe. 
 
 And  leave  their  Maker,  blefTed  over  all ; 
 
 "^ho  2ls\\\s  Power  and  Gcodrtejfegensralt    '  . 
 
 Appears  moft  plainly  in  this  Worlds  Creation ; 
 
 So  doth  his  gracious  Bomtj  on  them  fail. 
 
 In  fending  food  for  daily  fuftentation. 
 And  in  their  healths  and  lives  continuall  prefcrvation. 
 
 8  The  next  two  Books  moft  plainly  do  dilclofe 
 Gods  fVillf^iicy.Ur  and  generally 
 Particular  to  Tatrlarks,  Prophets^  thofe 
 That  till  Chrifis  time  on  God  aright  did  call : 
 
 For  this  did  not  on  all  the  Nations  fall, 
 Gods  will  was  then  in  furj  only  known  ; 
 But  now  thtGoJpel  foundeth  out  to  all. 
 The  feed  thereof  in  ev'ry  Nation's  fown. 
 Which  doth  reveal  hid  myfteries  before  unknown, 
 
 9  The^r/?  Gods  power  and  providence  doth  ftiow, 
 Thtfecond  types  out  our  Regeneration ; 
 
 The  third  diredly  leadeth  us  to  know 
 All  that  is  needfull  for  our  own  Salvation ; 
 
 Ev^n  from  Election  to  Glorification : 
 This  ^oo^rcveals  all  fecret  myfteries. 
 Hidden  in  Chrift  before  the  Worlds  foundation  - 
 Though  Worldlings  this  as  folly  do  defpife, 
 Yet  this  true  Knowledge  only  happy  makes  and  wiie.  ^ 
 
 10  As  fome  great  Pr/»r«  might  and  Majefty, 
 Is  often  to  tlie  mcaneft  ftranger  known ; 
 But  his  mok  fecret  comfell  znd  decree. 
 To  Friends  and  Counfellors  is  onely  fhown. 
 
 E  vn'  fo  the  King  of  Kings  holds  not  unknown 
 From  Heathens  fight  his  Majefty  and  might  % 
 But  hath  difcldfed  onely  to  his  own, 
 Iht  fecret  of  his  counfels  and  delight ; 
 Vhereby  they  may  him  worfhip,  pleafe,  and  ferve  arigbr. 
 
 1 1  This 
 
11  This  is  the  Knowledge  which  I  feek  to  trace 
 This  only  doth  true  happijicfle  aflFord, 
 Whereof  the  only  caufe  is  inward  Grace^ 
 And  under  ft  anding  Gods  moft  holy  Word  : 
 
 The  Helps  which  Hnmane  Learning  do  record. 
 Law,  Hiftorj^  Arts,  Ploy  ft  eke.  Poetry  ; 
 Are  but  ^sjervants  waiting  on  their  Lord, 
 And  hand-maids  to  their  'Dame  Divinity  ^  " 
 All  Knorr ledge  without  this  is  foolifli  vanity. 
 
 1 2  Sweet  Grace,  which  doft  trne  Knowledge  of  Gods  Vvill^ 
 To  "Baizes  and  fficklings  oftentimes  reveal. 
 When  from  great  Clerkj  of  Wifedom  and  deep  skill. 
 Thy  pleafurc  is  this  treafure  to  conceal ; 
 
 Oh  facred  heath  1  which  in  our  hearts  doth  fteal. 
 Like  iwectc(iZephyrn4  moft  pleafing  winde, 
 Whence  no  man  knows,  yet  doth  it  furely  feal. 
 That  certain  Knowledge  which  I  feek  to  finde. 
 Knowledge  of  God  and  Chrift  the  Snvionr  of  mankinde. 
 
 1 3  All  Graces  that  do  ferve  Loves  Roy  all  ^neen. 
 From  heavenly  Knowledge  have  their  maintenance, 
 And  alwaies  in  her  company  arc  fcen, 
 None  without  Knowledge  may  near  Leve  advance  ; 
 
 With  her  arc  Diligence  and  Temperance , 
 True  Faith  fo  near  her  ever  doth  attend. 
 You  would  her  take  for  Knowledge  at  a  glance, 
 Though  often  Faith  doth  fo  her  lelf  rranfccnd, 
 SThat  (he  beyond  the  reach  oi  Knowledge  doth  afcend 
 
 14  Not  f/f/V/?  alone  but  fTor)^  accompany 
 True  Knowledge,  who  in  words  doth  make  profe/Hon 
 He  knows  God^  but  in  \iff9rks  doth  him  deny. 
 Is  ev'n  a  lyar  by  his  own  confeffion ; 
 
 How  many  from  this  rule  do  make  digreifion  > 
 That  would  in  Knowledge  be  accounted  high, 
 But  give  themfelves  to  Pride,  tuft,  and  Oppreflion ; 
 Envy,  diffembling,  Schifme,  Idolatry, 
 Alas  true  Kno^X^ledge  never  kept  fucb  company. 
 
 I S  Sorr' 
 
of  Heavenly  Knotviedgel  I^jj 
 
 1 5  Some  only  feek  lok^ow  that  they  may  k^ow, 
 And  this  isfoolijh  curiofity. 
 
 And  feme  of  Learning  make  a  goodly  (how^ 
 And  this  is  ba,  e  and  idle  'vanity  ; 
 
 Some  Knowledge  feek  for  their  utility , 
 Or  cheir  preferment,  which  is  pithy  gain ; 
 Some  to  ceach  others  which  is  CW/>y, 
 Some  by  this  Knowledge  feek  Heaven  to  attain. 
 To  know  and  walk  not  right  is  damnable  and  vain. 
 
 1 6  I  liken  this  true  Knowledge  to  the  flower. 
 Or  bloffomc  fpringing  from  the  root  oi'Grace^ 
 That  doth  moft  glorioufly  adorn  Loves  bower ^ 
 And  ills  with  pleafant  odours  all  the  place ; 
 
 Which  bloflbme  beautiful!  in  little  fpace> 
 It  felf  into  moft  goodly  fruits  doth  fpend, 
 Faith,  Mercy,  Peace,  each  good  and  pcrkd: graced 
 Which  frftit  fo  far  the Jlower  doth  tranfcend, 
 God,  Men,  and  Angels  talk  it,  and  the  fame  commend* 
 
 ij  As  Bloflbmes  do  not  from  roor  lively  fpring, 
 That  after  blowing  have  a  fruitlefTe  fall ; 
 So  Knowledge  that  in  fVorks  is  vanifhing. 
 Had  never  any  root  i^om grace  at  all. 
 
 But  is  like  lo  good feedih^i's  faid  to  fall 
 From  fowers  hand,  down  by  the  high- way  diey 
 Whofe  rooting  being  (hallow,  loofe,  and  fmall. 
 Could  not  che  S^^ns  hot  fcorching  heat  abide ; 
 
 But  in  the  blade,  with  fomc,  fmall  light  afflidion  didc»^ 
 
 1 8  Some  liken  hcav'nly  Knowledge  to  the  Sun, 
 Then  which  in  this  world  nothing  more  to  light 
 bbjeded  is :  But  we  by  Sin  become. 
 Like  him  born  blinde,  deprived  of  naturall  light; 
 
 Till  fome  Power  fupernaturall  enlight. 
 And  though  more  plain  in  this  wotld  nothing's  ftiOWn, 
 Then  Gods  eternal  Godhead,  goodnefs,  might  i 
 Yet  until  Grace  enlighten  'tis  unknown, 
 
 4o  eaufe  hereof  in  God  but:  in  our  (elrcs  is  known.' 
 
 L  ip  Know- 
 
1 9  Knowledge  is  like  the  talents  which  the  Lord, 
 When  he  went  forth  di'A  to  his  fervants  lend  : 
 The  firft  who  his  own  talent  up  did  hoard, 
 Like  him  that  for  his  Knowledge  doth  contend  • 
 
 But  therewith  not  himfelf,  nor  others  mend : 
 He  that  with  talents  two  gain'd  other  twain. 
 Is  he  that  doth  his  time  and  labour  fpend 
 To  fave  himfelf,  and  thofe  with  him  remain. 
 But  he  that  gam'd  the  five  fecks  all  mens  fouls  to  gain. 
 
 20  I  Knoyvhdge  to  the  Virgins  Lamp  compare. 
 Which  foolifh  tnatds  had  common  with  the  Wife, 
 Oil  works  of  Piety  and  Mercy  are ; 
 
 Which  foolifti  Virgins  idlely  do  mifprife, 
 
 But  when  one,  Lo  the  Bridegroom  comes,  outcries. 
 The  foolifti  Virgins  Lamfs  are  fpcnt  and  done. 
 Wherefore  they  muft  to  merits  merchandize. 
 And  borrow  when  they  of  their  own  have  none. 
 The  Churches  Treafurj  will  furnifti  ev'ry  one. 
 
 21  Like  Widows  Gil  that  doth  encreafc  by  fpending. 
 Like  flames  that  lightning  others  gain  more  light ; 
 Like  Ufurers  coin  that  doth  augment  by  lending ; 
 Like  Joy  that  moft  encreafeth  by  delight. 
 
 Like  Manna,  that  the  Angels  food  is  hight. 
 Whereof  each  gathers  what  may  him  fuffice  : 
 Except  fuch  as  in  Flcfti-pots  more  delight. 
 Like  Springs  which  more  you  draw  the  fafter  rife. 
 Like  Tutors  who  by  teaching  Scholars  grow  more  wife. 
 
 22  No  Simile  can  her  fo  well  expreffe. 
 As  infinite  and  boundlefle  treafury ; 
 
 Or  Sea  of  waters  which  become  no  lefTe  : 
 Though  Fountains  all  with  flreams  it  doth  fupply. 
 
 How  infinite  is  this  grand  Myftery, 
 To  lay  of  nothing  this  huge  Worlds  foundation  : 
 One  God,  three  PeFfonsin  the  Trinitj, 
 Oh  depth  of  Knowledge,  Gods  own  Incarnation, 
 obedience  J  PaJJiofj)  Refufre^ionf  Exaltation,. 
 
 23  01 
 
of  lieavenlj  Knorvledgel  J^j 
 
 ai  Oh !'  I  am  drowned,  here  Elefhants  may  fwim,' 
 
 My  Lamb'Uke  Mi^fe  m  fallow  Fords  muft  wade. 
 
 And  leek  :ox. Kno'^'ledge  co  defiil  from  Siuy 
 
 And  make  Fdth,  Mercy,  Piety  my  trade.  ' 
 
 By  Faith,  I  know,  Chrifts  merits  mine  arc  made  | 
 
 The  reft  are  fruits  of  my  Sandification, 
 
 Abundant  Knowledge  doth  witBTorrew  lade. 
 
 To  Knorv  and  do  Qod's  will  is  deledation, 
 And  only  by  Chrifts  merits  bringeth  to  Salvation.' 
 
 24  This  is  the  Knowledge  which  our  Saviour  raeant^ 
 Whenas  he  \Uternall  life  did  call ; 
 
 To  k^ow  God,  and  the  Chrifl  which  he  had  fcnt  - 
 This  is  uhc  Knowledge  fo  much  fought  of  all 
 Before  and  fincc  the  Law,  and  ever  fhall. 
 Though  till  Chrifis  time  it  was  f©  (hadowed ; 
 As  coverM  it  in  types  and  figns  fecm'd  fmall^ 
 But  fince  Times  fulnefe  it  accomplilhcd. 
 Behold,  they  all  in  Chriji  are  ealic  to  be  read* 
 
 25  By  this  did  Jbel  offer  of  his  Sheep 
 The  fat,  and  God  accepted  his  oblation  i 
 By  this  fo  well  Gods  Law  dXd  Henoch  keep. 
 
 He  him  exalted  firom  earths  habitation  ;  . 
 
 F  or  this  did  Ahram  leave  both  Houfe  and  Nation," 
 Aflured,  that  from  out  his  Loins  (hould  fpring 
 That  Knowledge,  which  to  know  was  his  falvation 
 Herein  did  David  though  he  were  a  King, 
 Take  more  delight  then  Crown  or  any  worldly  thing.; 
 
 26  See  next  his  Royall  Son,  King  Solomon, 
 Then  whom  anfe  a  wifer  never  fhall, 
 Who  knew  plants  natures  cv'n  from  Lebanon 
 Her  Cedars  tall  to  Hjfo^e  by  the  ^all : 
 
 Who  as  in  }realth  in  Knowledge  pafTed  all ;  j 
 
 Yet  after  he  had  traced  Vanitj, 
 Andfound  how  fons  of  men  thereby  did  fail, 
 ,  Him  to  this  Knowledge  did  again  apply  : 
 And  fwanlikc  fang  Chrifii  Churches  Bfithalamj, 
 
 .        L  2  %7  Wak€ 
 
:i7  Wake  I,  or  flcep,  or  am  I  in  a  trance  ? 
 
 Or  do  another  Solomon  behold  ? 
 
 A  "David  who  doth  far  and  wide  advance. 
 
 His  gracious  Scepter  ?  But  no  bounds  can  hold 
 His  Kmvp ledge,  fecret  things  for  to  unfold ; 
 
 Law,  Hifiorj,  Arts,  and  Tloilofophy, 
 
 All  r\oh\t  fciences  that  can  be  told. 
 
 Yet  feems  to  love  alone  Divinhj, 
 Which  truly  can  dired  in  Peace  to  live  and  dic<, 
 
 28  Who  as  he  is  the  Leamedefl  of  Kings, 
 So  'tis  his  Joy  and  Glory  for  to  be. 
 The  King  of  Learnedmen ;  which  in  all  things, 
 Makes  God  to  profper  him  as  all  may  fee. 
 
 This  makes  him  raife  t©  place  of  high  degree. 
 Men  of  great  knowledge,  well  to  rule  the  Land, 
 And  put  down  Ignerance  and  fubtlety. 
 Which  higheft  in  their  own  conceits  do  (land; 
 Longfway  thou  Britain:  Scepter  with  thy  facred  hand. 
 
 29  And  when  thy  Cloak  Elioi-^xkt  muft  fall 
 Upon  Elijha  thine  undoubted  heir. 
 Inherit  he  thy  Peace  and  Knowledge  all. 
 And  in  thy  Sfirit  rule  as  in  thy  chair. 
 
 Bntl  muft  leave  this  field  fo  ample  fair. 
 Teach  me,  O  Lord,  to  know  and  do  thy  will. 
 And  let  thy  grace  Jigain  m  me  repair 
 Thine  Image  loft,  and  all  corruptions  kill ; 
 Jhus  we  thy  will  on  Earth  as  they  in  Hcav'n  fullfill. 
 
 30  This  knowledge  muft  ftand  by  us  at  our  laft, 
 Whenas  we  ready  arc  our  fouls  to  tender 
 To  him  that  for  faife  kriowledge  curious  tafte. 
 Though  guiltlefie  did  his  life  to  Juftice  render : 
 
 For  this  the  Holy  Ghojl  doth  more  commend  hcr^ 
 That  bare  her  Saviours  knowledge  in  her  brcft ; 
 Then  that  fhe  bare  him  in  her  womb,  yet  tender, 
 For  One  all  Generations  call  her  bleft. 
 By  th'oiher  one  of  his  trhemmbsn  (he  doth  reft. 
 
of  Heavenly  Kmyvledgcl  14: 
 
 3 1  But  though  this  only  neceflary  is. 
 And  firft  for  our  falvation  to  be  fought, 
 We  only  at  our  iaft  of  it  have  miflc, 
 As  too  mean  fubjcd  for  ambitious  thought : 
 
 Tlius  the  unlearned  rife,  and  heav'n  have  cought, 
 yNhcn  greatefi  Cierks  with  Sciences  profound, 
 Heartlefs,  and  comfortlefs  to  Hell  are  brought. 
 For  God  doth  their  great  wifcdom  oft  confound, 
 
 Becaufe  their  inward  parts  are  not  fincere  and  found,    r^ 
 
 3  2  Alas !  o{k»oyifled£e  here  we  have  no  care. 
 
 But  all  onrjouth  in  follies  idlely  fpend ; 
 
 Our  ftrcngth  in  lufts  and  ftrifes  away  we  wear  | 
 
 In  age  we  worldly  profit  all  intend : 
 Alas  what  gain  we  by  this  at  our  end  ? 
 
 When  our  frail  Body  doth  return  to  dull:. 
 
 Our  Soul  to  him  that  gave  it  muft  afcend. 
 
 Whereof  Icaft  jot  of  time  account  they  muft, 
 Which  hath  been  fpent  in  difcord,  profit,  folly,  luft. 
 
 3  3  Oh  !  knew  we  but  the  vertue  of  this  treafure. 
 Like  to  the  Merchant  wife,  we  would  fell  all 
 To  buy  it,  where  we  fhould  finde  profit,  pleafurc, 
 Such  Joy  as  never  on  our  hearts  did  fall  :j 
 Oh  heavenly  Comfort  1  Joy  fpirituall : 
 Delight  unfpeakable  in  hearts  that  grow. 
 Of  thofe  that  fhe  is  converfant  withal! ; 
 W  hat  Joy  can  there  be  greater  then  to  know 
 
 Gods  endleffc  Love  in  Chrifi,  which  (he  to  us  doth  fhow. 
 
 34  Sure  I  could  wifh  my  whole  life  here  to  fpcnd^ 
 In  this  divine  moft  holy  contemplation. 
 Whereof  I  know  not  how  to  make  an  end. 
 She  yeelds  fuch  plenty  of  fweet  Meditation : 
 Moft  heav'nly  myfteries  of  our  Creation, 
 Wherein  appear  G^ds  Might  and  Majefty ; 
 But  above  all  his  love  in  Mans  falvation. 
 This  is  that  wondrous  hidden  myftery, 
 
 ,|Into  the  which  ev'n  Angels  did  defire  to  pry.' 
 
i5JO  of  Heavenly  Kmy»ledge. 
 
 35  But  We  confefs  though  thou  doft  here  reveal, 
 Abundant  k^owledge^  yet  we  little  know; 
 Wherefore  'gainft  us  the  Heathen  may  appeal 
 Who  though  thou  didft,  to  them  but  glimpfes  (how 
 
 O^  Truth  and  fuftice,  did  more  righteous  grow. 
 Then  we  that  do  thy  facred  Truth  confeffe  • 
 And  make  ofPurttj  a  glorious  flicw  ; 
 But  to  adorn  the  Gojpel  we  profefTe 
 With  works  of  Charitj,  ah !  we  do  nothing  Icfs. 
 
 36  Oh  it  is  meat  and  drink,  we  know  not  of; 
 To  know  and  do  our  heav'nly  Fathers  will : 
 Our  bleffed  Saviour  alwaies  fed  thereof, 
 And  hereof  Saints  and  Angels  cat  their  fill. 
 
 Thefe  are  the  fruicfuil  plants  which  flourifh  ftill 
 Milk,  Hony,  living  Water,  fpiced  Wine ;  ^ 
 
 Which  do  refreih  Chriiis  Spufe  when  (he  is  ill : 
 *ihckrichefi  Jewels  which  her  make  fo  fine, 
 Lcrkl,  Rihands^  Rofes,  which  fo  glorioufly  do  (bine. 
 
 3  7  For  this,  (he  is  the  Bridegrooms  darling  T)ove, 
 And  unto  her  that  bare  her  only  dear  : 
 For  this  the  daughters  when  they  fee  her  love, 
 And  all  the  ^l^ens  and  wives  make  merry  cheer  : 
 
 This  makes  her  look  then  Sun  and  Moon  more  clear^ 
 Her  navell,hellyjjead,necke,breafis  adorn; 
 With  thefe  fhe  to  her  hmhand  doth  appear. 
 More  beautifully  then  is  the  faireft  morn ; 
 
 Or  fair  like  twinning  Ews,  on  Gilead  waflit  and  (horn. 
 
 38  Thou  that  fuch  heav'nly  Knowledge  didft  inftill. 
 Into  plain  Fifhers  that  they  could  confound 
 By  argum.ent,  ev'n  Clerks  of  greateft  skill. 
 And  dive  into  thy  Mjfteries  profound  : 
 
 Who  by  their  cUven-fierj  Tongues  forth  found. 
 The  Knowledge  of  thy  Truth  to  ev'ry  Nation ; 
 Canft  make  this  Knowledge  in  mine  heart  abound. 
 By  one  fpark  of  divine  illumination. 
 
 Anil  ravi(h  my  weak  foul  with  heav'nly  admiration. 
 
 3  9  Am 
 
of  Heavenly  Knowledge.  151 
 
 39  And  though  imperfed:  here  our  Knowledge  be. 
 
 By  reafon  of  our  humane  imperfedion. 
 
 And  for  by  Faith  alone  we  things  do  fee, 
 
 And  nothing  know  indeed  in  true  perfedion ; 
 Yet  when  thy  Sprit  clears  our  mindes  infedlon  ^} 
 
 Wc  (hall  then  know  ev'n  as  we  now  are  known ; 
 
 And  things  now  feen  by  mirrour-like  infpedion; 
 
 To  us  (hall  be  moft  evidently  (hown. 
 In  Knowledge  we  (hall  reap  what  we  in  Faith  have  fown, 
 
 .Q  What  then*s?wpfr/f^  (hall  be  done  away. 
 
 Knowledge  Ihall  perted  our  felicity ; 
 
 Which  is  our  free  beholding  God  for  aye^ 
 
 In  his  great  Goodnefe,  Love,  and  Majefij, 
 S  o  far  as  finite  may  infinity. 
 
 Farther  to  reach  my  Mufe  dares  not  be  bold, 
 I     When  Angels  of  fo  high  fublimity 
 i     <7o^/ Light  and  Majefty  cannot  behold. 
 Finite  with  infinite  can  no  proportion  hold* 
 
 MEDI- 
 
'^  *$>  •$•  «§?  ^f' 'I?  ^1?  4?  ^  •Ie' '5*  4*  •$*  i'^  4? 'i^  ^ '** : '^  "^^ 
 
 Med  IT  AT.   11^ 
 
 of  Zul  And  godly  ^eaUufif. 
 
 ^  H  that  feme  holy  fire  enlightening,         (vine, 
 ^  My  Soul  now  ravifh  would  with  thoughts  di- 
 jl  VVhilft  I  of  Jealoufie  Loves  daughter  ilng, 
 ^^   And  godly  Zeal,  which  like  the  Snn  doth 
 Alas  I  Aiinerva,d^n^  ihtMufes  nine,  (fhine. 
 Are  too  weak  helps  their  aid  here  to  entreat. 
 With  Cole  from  Altar  let  fome  Serafhine 
 Touch  my  rude  tongue,  and  fet  my  brain  on  heat, 
 The  Glorj  of  this  Grace  in  lofty  rhimes  to  fweat, 
 
 2  Fit  Subjcft  for  a  facred  Poets  Verfe, 
 Which  (hould  it  felf  in  Extafie  tranfcend, 
 Zeuls  facred  Praife,  wich  Kmrf ledge  to  rehearfc 
 Both  Meth(id^x\^  Devotion  do  commend; 
 
 Who  as  the  houjhold  Chaplain  doth  intend, 
 To  all  that  live  in  Royail  Court  o^Love, 
 And  Prayers  for  them  all  to  heav'n  doth  fend. 
 For  without  Zeal  none  pofiible  can  move. 
 
 To  high  (?/jwp«^  Court,  the  Seat  of  mighty  Jove. 
 
 3   For  Prajers  that  to  Heaven  feck  to  afcend. 
 Without  the  Fervour  of  this  facred  Zeal, 
 Fall  down  Hke  fmoaky  vapours  that  intend 
 Into  Airs  middle  Region  to  fteal : 
 
 Eut  thofe  that  are  fupported  by  her  feal 
 Like  Fumes  of  Incenfe  by  the  Lamb  contend 
 Ev'n  m  th 'Almighties  prefence  to  reveal 
 Our  want?,  and  crave  his  aid  us  to  defend  : 
 
 ^Gainft  worlds  and  Serpents poyfin  to  our  lateft  end. 
 
 4  Oh 
 
of  Zeal.  155 
 
 j.  Oh  thou  to  whom  it  was  both  drink  and  nieat. 
 To  finifti  and  to  do  thy  Fathers  Will, 
 Whom  Zealot  Gods  own  Ho^fe  cv'n  up  did  eat. 
 And  saade  thee  on  the  Crofs  thy  bloud  to  fpill : 
 
 Who  whipft  out  Merchants  that  thy  houfe  did  fill 
 With  doves  and  money,  theeves  and  merchandife. 
 Some  e  alom  juyce  into  my  pen  diftill. 
 And  raifemy  mindc  above  her  wonred  guife, 
 rhat  fo  my  Ainfe  may  with  her  matter  fympathife. 
 
 J  AH  other  holy  Graces  difpofition. 
 
 By  Rules  of  ^rt  I  formerly  define ; 
 
 But  Zeal  fo  fervent  is  no  definition 
 
 Can  her  contain,  or  bound  in  any  line ; 
 Only  (he  is  by  nature  pure,  divine, 
 
 Beloved  Daughter  to  the  ^luetn  of  Love, 
 
 Whofe  Mothers  Graces  io  in  her  do  fhine. 
 
 She  well  the  primate  of  her  Court  may  prove, 
 And  ranked  be  for  place  all  other  Feers  above. 
 
 6  I  here  omit  that  Zeal  which  without  hate 
 Of  others,  doth  to  vertuous  ^tt^%  contend. 
 And  us  cnflames  \h2x70Bd  to  emulate. 
 Which  we  to  be  in  otners  apprehend  : 
 
 I  here  that  holy  je^loufie  commend, 
 Which  only  doth  from  Love  divine  proceed  • 
 When,  not  for  our,but  Gods  caufe,  we  intend 
 To  love  both  him  and  his  in  word  and  deed. 
 For  this  is  that  right  Zeal  which  of  true  Love  doth  breed. 
 
 7  Truth  comes  by  Kmyvledgs^  and  from  ^^^/,  devotions  j 
 When  therefore  zeal  doth  with  true  knowledge  meet. 
 She  doth  enlarge  our  hearts  with  heav'niy  notions. 
 Sublime,  tranfcendent,  admirable,  fweet ; 
 
 But  where  this  knowledge  wants,  (he's  undifcreer, 
 Ra(h,  violent,  feditious,  rude  and  blinde, 
 Faults  for  fo  fair  a  Lady  far  unmeet ; 
 You  fee  two  z.eals  here  of  a  differing  kinde, 
 I  leave  the  worft,  and  feek  the  faireil  out  to  finde. 
 
 5?  Sivneet 
 
IJ4  Of  Zed. 
 
 8  Sweet  Z^^  /  daughter  to  the  Sji^^^^  of  Lovt , 
 which  is  the  caufe  of  Zeal  Andfealoujicy 
 
 If  you  will  ask  me  what  this  ^^een  doth  move. 
 To  love  us  wretches  that  in  fin  do  he ; 
 I  anfwer,  Geodnejfe  of  her  Majefij. 
 Moft  excellent  is  then  this  holy  fire, 
 Oiz^eal  proceeding  from  fuch  anceftry, 
 Goodnefe  and  Love,  which  therefore  we  require 
 To  true  effects  of  Love  and  Geodnejfe  to  afpirc. 
 
 9  Sweet  ^eal !  How  fairly  doft  thou  beautifie 
 Th'affedion,  where  thou  mak'ft  thy  habitation. 
 Like  Tempie,  which  thy  Lord  did  purific, 
 Whenas  his  Soul  with  ^eal  and  indignation, 
 
 Was  mov'd  to  fee  Gods  Tem.ples  prophanation. 
 Not  fuffering  thy  houfe  of  endlcffe  reft. 
 To  be  abus'd  by  Pride  or  luftfuli  pafi[ion, 
 Th'affedion  which  doth  lodge  within  my  breft, 
 The  Ter/fp/e  where  Chrift  and  the  holj  Ghoji  fliouid  reft. 
 
 10  Companions  of  ^^^/,  zrcPUtj, 
 
 Faith,  KnoTvledge^  Patience,  Firtitude,  and  Right ^ 
 In  works  of  Mercy,  Peace,  and  Charity, 
 And  fweet  Humilttj/  is  her  delight : 
 
 With  all  her  Power  (he  is  oppofite 
 Againft  all  that  Gods  glory  may  oppofe. 
 She  fpends  in  fervent  T^rajers,  day  and  night ; 
 And  thofe  by  Knowledge  doth  fo  well  compoic. 
 They  bring  Gods  hlejpngs  down,  and  up  his  judgements  clofe. 
 
 1 1  Oh  Zeal  with  Knowledge,  Faith  and  Charity, 
 Who  able  is  thy  vertuc  to  commend  ? 
 Which  doth  the  Church  into  one  'Body  tye. 
 And  for  Gods  glory  only  doft  contend  j; 
 
 Vov  pub lique  good,  and  not  fox  private  end. 
 Lo  1  the  Angels  Being  doth  in  ^f*r/confift ; 
 Whokfacred  ardour  doth  all  flames  tranfcend. 
 Wherewith  they  oft  enlight  our  mindes  dark  mift. 
 When  flames  of  hotteft  z>eal  they  to  our  foui  fuggeft. 
 
 12  Oh! 
 
of  Zeal.  155 
 
 12  Oh  I  Love  as  ftron  g  as  Death,  and  Jealoufie 
 Cruell  2.S  grave ;  Thy  flames  Uke  coals  of  fire 
 Confume  and  burn  up  all  mofl  violently, 
 
 No  Streams  or  Flouds  can  quench  her  facred  ire. 
 
 Should  we  fell  all  we  have  we  could  not  buy  her ; 
 The  Daughter  z.eal  is  like  the  Mother  free. 
 Them  both  from  Beavn  ih*  Almighty  doth  infpire. 
 And  therefore  neither  will  affronted  be 
 tVith  Rivals,  Heathen  Gods  moft  bafe  Idolatree, 
 
 1 3  Fond  Zsal  that's  fitly  called  which  doth  want 
 Faith,  Knowledge,  Love  divine,  and  Graces  all, 
 ft  ftill  doth  molt  vain  fuperftiiions  haunt, 
 And  to  moft  bafe  Idolatry  doth  fall, 
 
 \Xnh\xm^ntFHry,Madneffetragicall\ 
 Of  men,  whom  thus  blinde  Zealdindi  ilrange  defire, 
 Tranfports  beyond  rage  diahvUcall, 
 To  offer  up  their  children  in  the  fire. 
 Of  fome  offended  devil  to  appeafe  the  ire. 
 
 14  Strange  is  this  z^ealomfury  of  the  rude. 
 
 When  Ignorance  doth  guide  their  blinde  devotion. 
 
 The  gathering  of  the  froward  multitude, 
 
 \yhen  they  be  ftirred  with  fome  fervent  motion: 
 All  following  fome  brain-fick  idle  notion, 
 
 With  difcontent,  agamft  authority, 
 i     Raife  Schtfmes  in  Chnrch,  in  Common-wealth  commotion ; 
 
 Pretending  all  their  Confcience-likrty, 
 Alas !  thefe  be  no  ftuits  of  holy  fealoufie, 
 
 115   God  often  by  an  ^Anthrofofathy,  ■ 
 
 By  which  his  nature  beft  we  underftand, 
 
 Afcribes  unto  himfelf  the  fealonfie. 
 
 As  being  link'^d  in  Hjwf;?j  holy  band 
 Mnto  ]^isChHrch,\i\sVnde filed '^  And 
 
 His  Church  again,  to  (hew  her  fervent  Love, 
 
 And  foy  fhe  takes  in  her  new  joyned  hand. 
 
 Like  Love-fick^Bride  the  Bridegroom  oft  doth  prove. 
 And  him  with  Zeal  invites  her  to  embrace  and  Love. 
 
 16  Never 
 
i$6  OfZesL 
 
 3  6  Never  new  ^^edded  Bridegroom  Was  more  fain 
 Of  his  rtnv-Bride^  then  Chrifl  is  o'thls  Dove, 
 Never  did  truell  Turtle  moict  complain 
 For  lofle  o^Aiate^  then  this  Sfenfe  of  her  Lovi, 
 
 It  would  a  itony  heart  to  rountains  move 
 Of  tears  to  hear  the  Churches  piteous  mone. 
 When  (he  doch  mifTe  him  whom  her  Soul  doth  love, 
 Where's  my  helov'd  ^  ah  Whither  is  Jhe gone  ? 
 
 And  left  Xwsjaddeft  Dear,  to  figh  and  fit  alone. 
 
 J  7  And  therefore  as  a  Signet  on  his  heart. 
 And  as  the  Seal  that  is  on  his  right  hand. 
 She  would  be  joynM,  that  fhe  might  never  part. 
 But  alwaies  in  his  Grace  and  Prejcnce  ftand. 
 
 No  Keener  in  Chrifts  Vineyard  rauft  eommand. 
 He  will  his  Vineyard  prune  and  drefs  alone. 
 Whereby  his  fealoufte  we  under ftand. 
 His  J'ine  the  Bridegroom  will  have  dreft  of  none. 
 
 The  Bride  out  of  his  prefencc  never  will  be  gone. 
 
 1 8  Doth  mine  invention  fail  that  wont  to  flow 
 In  Similes  that  make  hard  things  fcem  plam  ? 
 Or  doth  the  whole  Creation  here  below. 
 Nothing  afford  Zeals  nature  to  explain  ? 
 
 Alas  all  earthly  Similes  are  vain 
 Texpreflc  the  nature  of  this  Heav*nly  fire, 
 VVhich  m  the  glorious  Angels  doth  remain. 
 And  in  the  Spirits  of  that  blefled  Quire, 
 
 Which  here  with  Hymns  and  Praifes  do  Gods  love  admire. 
 
 29  Shall  duft  and  aflies  dare  yet  be  fo  bold. 
 
 Her  to  the  holy  fire  to  compare 
 
 Which  in  the  Bu(}?  thy  fervant  did  behold 
 
 Flaming,  but  did  the  Buflj  not  finge  or  fear  : 
 Such  flames  of  ^eal  oft  ir.  our  hearts  there  arc  , 
 
 Which  do  enlighten  them,  but  uot  confume  : 
 
 Thefe  flames  our  Prayers  to  Jehovah  bear. 
 
 By  thefe  our  Praifes  fpiritualiy  up  fume, 
 And  in  Gods  noilnls  are  like  incenfe  and  perfume. 
 
 30  Or 
 
20  Or  fliall  I  like  her  to  fome  Liontffe 
 
 RobM  of  her  whelps,  by  fome  adventurous  hand, 
 VVho  in  her  wondrous  woe  and  furioufnefTc, 
 Devours  and  flays  all  in  her  way  that  ftand  : 
 Who  can  the  force  o^Jcahnfie  withftand  ? 
 Being  of  fo  great  ftrcngth  and  wondrous  might, 
 God  grant  our  Zeal  the  Truth  may  underftand, 
 And  that  true  Knorpledge  may  our  minde  enlighr, 
 
 To  make  us  z^ealotu  for  Gods  glory  and  the  right. 
 
 a  I  May  I  not  like  her  to  ftrong  churlifh  wine. 
 
 Which  doth  confound  the  brain,  inflame  the  bloud. 
 But  cool*d  with  water  pure,  and  fugar  fine. 
 For  both  of  them  is  foveraign  and  good  : 
 
 Ev'n  fo  dodi  fealouftes  moft  fervent  mood, 
 Allaid  with/;^^^/-  of  fweet  Charity, 
 And  cool'd  mthfweetefi  Cryfialline  pure  floud, 
 The  filent  ftreams  of  foft  Hftmilitj^ 
 
 Tranfcend  in  all  good  works  of  Love  and  Pktj. 
 
 22  This  is  the  Zf^/ and  facred  emulation, 
 
 Which  the  Original!  doth  fignifie ; 
 
 Which  hath  with  Love  in  Heav'/t  her  habitation. 
 
 And  all  our  adions  here  doth  fandifie. 
 And  when  our  Maker  us  (hall  glorifie. 
 
 Behold !  our  ZealihdW  in  perfedion  (hine. 
 
 Begun  on  earth  in  true  fi  ncerity. 
 
 And  as  our  Flefhly  courage  doth  decline, 
 Our  Zeal  will  grow  more  hot,  and  neareft  to  divine. 
 
 2  3   Zeal  made  old  Ahram  Bagars  fon  rejed,  : 
 
 For  fcoffing  at  his  holy  promised  {t^d^ 
 And  Mofes  Tharaohs  Court  and  grace  negled. 
 When  he  th' Egyptians  deftiny  did  reed, 
 
 That  fraote  a  brother  of  the  holy  breed  : 
 This  Zeal  made  noble  Phineas  with  his  fpear. 
 Slay  Zimri  and  Coshi  in  their  damned  dt^di^ 
 Though  Sanlth^  fat  of  «y^wf/^)^  would  fpare ; 
 
 Yet  Samneh  Zeal  doth  Agags  flclh  in  pieces  tear. 
 
 MOh 
 
24  Oh  had  his  Matter  ^/^'z  burnt  fo  hoC 
 Againft  his  fons,  when  they  by  violence 
 The  fatteft  of  Gods  offrings  from  him  got. 
 And  with  foul  L^fi  defied  thcjacnd  Tents  : 
 
 Had  he  like  PhincM  punifht  this  offence  ? 
 Our  ears  then  ftiould  not  have  fo  tingled, 
 To  hear  of  Gods  great  wrath  and  fore  offence 
 He  and  his  fons  in  one  day  flaughtercd  ^ 
 
 And  all  his  race  from  th'y^r^for  ever  banifhed, 
 
 25  2"^^/ made  the  warlike  ZXit^iW  to  afpire 
 To  build  an  houfe  for  Gods  own  habitation. 
 And  though  wars  croft  his  ^4/ and  good  defire 
 Yet  made  he  for  it  royall  preparation,  " 
 
 And's  Son  kfinifht  on  his  laid  foundation 
 Who  gold  and  filver  Veflels  in  did  bring,      ' 
 It  making  fudah's  Joy  the  admiration 
 Of  all  the  world,  the  Seat  of  the  great  King, 
 Whither  the  Trikes  go  up  for  his  true  worfhiping. 
 
 26  I  may  with  this  example  dignifie 
 
 The  noble  Zeal  of  our  hte  famous  ^eert, 
 Who  much  dcfired  to  reedifie 
 Pauls  Temples  ruines  which  fo  fearfull  feem 
 And  make  her  fair  as  ever  (he  was  feen  :  ^ 
 But  wars  abroad  and  broils  within  her  Land, 
 Moft  fatall  to  this  pious  work  have  been ; 
 So  as  it  ftill  moft  ruinous  doth  ftand, 
 Expeding  help  from  Solomons  pacifick  hand: 
 
 27  2"^^/ like  a  Torr^  it  own  felf  doth  confume, 
 Whiift  burning  it  to  others  giveth  light, 
 And  like  to  fweeteft  incefife  znd  perfume 
 
 For  ochers  Good,  fpcnds  all  her  force  and  might,; 
 
 Oh  bleffedfire  I  if  kindled  aright. 
 It  burn  with  Love  of  Heaven,  and  holy  things. 
 Retaining  in  our  hearts.both  day  and  night. 
 His  fweet  embraces,  who  is  Kittg  o^  Kings, 
 Loathing  the  worlds  vain  wanton  wicked  daliyings. 
 
 28  This 
 
28  This  Cnpci  be  thy  foals  and  hearts  delight, 
 Whofc  Bow  and  golden  (hafts  of  Zed  and  Love] 
 Do  conquer  Furies,  Fates,  and  worlds  defpight. 
 And  ft  ay  the  thunderbolts  oi  2iUgty  fove : 
 
 Oh  fee  the  force  of  Love  and  Zeal  doth  move 
 All  powers  that  in  Heav*n,  Earth:,  Hell  tranfcend ; 
 Grant  thee  alone  I  zealoufly  may  Love  j 
 And  let  thy  fealoufie  me  fafe  defend. 
 That  never  10  ftrange  Gods  I  my  affedion  bend. 
 
 29  Let  us  learn  Zeal  of  him  that  in  the  daies 
 OPs  flefhjdid  offer  Trajersfix^^XitdiXion^ 
 With  ftrongeft  cries  and  tears  to  God  alwaies. 
 That  able  was  to  fave  him  from  his  Pajport  j 
 
 And  learn  of  him  true  holy  indignation. 
 To  be  ev*n  eaten  up  with  fervent  Zeal, 
 To  (he  theeves  den  itiGods  own  habitation. 
 But  firft  let  Knowledge  our  Commijfion  feal 
 That  where  this  Fervour  ^0Hnds,om  Charitj  maj  heal. 
 
 3  o  But  ah  our  Zeal  of  Prayer  now  grows  cold. 
 
 Zeal  ofGods^glorj  like  our  Charity, 
 
 And  as  the  world  declines,  now  waxing  old, 
 
 Ev'n  fo  doth  all  our  Zeal  and  Piety  : 
 We  raife  our  houfes  ev'n  to  dare  the  skje. 
 
 But  raze  Gods  Temples  equail  with  the  ground, 
 
 Our  Fathers  built  them  for  pofterity. 
 
 And  left  with  Ornaments  adorned  round. 
 But  we  them  with  their  Ornaments  feek  to  confound. 
 
 3 1   As  for  the  Temples  of  the  holy  Ghofi, 
 
 I  mean  our  hearts  th^  Bridegrooms  habitation. 
 We  will  beftow  on  them  no  fpirituall  coft, 
 But  leave  them  foird  with  vileft  prophana'tion ; 
 
 Pride,  Lufl,  Vain-glorj,  all  abomination, 
 Tis  time  to  wifti  this  holy  Bi(hops  Zeal 
 Would  make  of  them  to  God  new  confecration, 
 And  chat  the  h$ly  Ghdfi  their  doors  would  feal, 
 
 Againft  ail  fpirituall  theeves  that  holy  goods  would Jleal- 
 
 32  Oh 
 
32  Oh  that  fome  holyfit  of  Heav'niy  fire, 
 Raiiing  my  L^Lufe  toz^ealou^  contemplation^ 
 Would  in  mine  heart  that  fervent  flame  infpire 
 And  z,eaL^  Lozc  Saint  Fml  bare  to  his  Nation, 
 
 Whenas  he  could  have  wifht  ev'n  reprobation 
 For  their  fakes  from  ivhofe  flefh  Chrift  did  dcfcend  j 
 Or  of  the  Prcphct,  by  Predeftination 
 Moft  fure,  his  name  in  Bookjf  Life  was  pen'd 
 yet  wifht  it  wiped  out  Gods  glory  to  defend* 
 
 33  But  I  confefTe  we  rather  do  envy 
 Gods  gifts  and  graces  in  our  Bretheren, 
 And  fofnahAikc  forbid  them  prophecy, 
 Shewmg  more  Zeal  to  honour  Greatnefs,  then 
 
 To  Glorifie  the  Kift£  of  Heaven,  yea  when 
 We  in  our  hearts  finde  any  emulation, 
 •Jis  for  vain-glory  and  the  praife  of  men. 
 To  build  oor  houles,  not  Gods  habitation. 
 And  kave  fair  large  pofTeflions  to  our  generation* 
 
 34  Let  us  with  i^/ii/i^makefl  facred  vow. 
 And  to  th' Almighty  God  oi  Jacob  fwcar    , 
 Never  to  come  within  our  houfe,  nor  bow 
 Our  Limbs  upon  our  Beds,  till  we  prepare 
 
 A  place  Godsjpirituall  Temfie  up  to  rear  i 
 Nor  ever  fuffer  fleep  within  our  eyes. 
 Or  flumbcr  in  our  eye-lids  to  appear. 
 Till  we  an  habitation  do  dcvife. 
 Where  we  may  to  th' Almighty  offer  facrifice. 
 
 3  5  My  minde  infl  ame  Lord  with  that  het  defirc 
 And  Zeai  to  giorifie  thy  holy  Name, 
 That  like  thy  Martyrs  I  may  dread  no  fire, 
 Becaufc  i  feel  within  a  hotter  flame. 
 
 Hoc  coals  therefore  (hall  be  to  me  the  fame. 
 As  to  the  Martjr  was  the  Bailing  Oil, 
 Which  did  more  cool  indeed  then  him  inflame, 
 Becaufe  his  <,eal  within  did  hotter  boil, 
 
 Sweet  heav'nly  dews  do  moft  inrich  the  hotccft  foil* 
 
 3^01 
 
of  Zed.  I6l 
 
 3  6  Oh  were  mine  head  a  conduit  full  of  tears. 
 
 Mine  eyes  two  rocks  continnally  to  run, 
 
 As  well  to  clcnfe  foul  Lufls  of  youthfull  years. 
 
 As  cool  the  zealous  flames  in  me  begun ; 
 
 Had  I  thus  once  my  Bridegrooms  prefencc  won, 
 
 I  never  would  let  go  my  well-laid  hold. 
 
 Till  he  into  my  Mothers  chamber  come, 
 
 With  fweet  embraces  aye  me  to  unfold. 
 His  ardent  Lovs  would  never  let  my  zeal  grow  cold 
 
 M  THE 
 
 d 
 
1 62 
 
 M  EDI  TAT.     Ill, 
 
 1 
 
 of  Temperances, 
 
 Y  Mufe  now  fares  like  to  fome  Pilot  wife. 
 Who  having  fome  dread  ftorms  of  danger  pi 
 That  toft  his  veffell  oft  up  to  the  skies , 
 Now  failing  in  the  calm  with  temperate  blaft. 
 Goes  gently  on,  left  too  much  dangerous  haftc 
 His  fhip  unwares  on  hidden  rock  impighc. 
 And  him  and  all  his  hopes  away  (hould  caft : 
 For  thus  it  oft  befals  fome  carelefTc  wight. 
 To  wreck  in  fairefi  calm  when  they  the  ftorm  have  quighl 
 
 2  I  late  was  toft  in  rough  and  boiftcrous  Sea, 
 Of  Zeai  and  fea/oufte,  which  having  paft, 
 I  am  to  fail  in  calm  and  faireft  Lea, 
 
 0(  Temperance  moft  abftinent  and  chaftc ; 
 
 Therefore  my  C^fufe  goes  on  with  fober  htftc. 
 Knowing  againft  her  many  dangers  lie, 
 Which  by  the  touchy  tongue,  fmeU,  eye,  ear^  or  taHc^ 
 Would  her  entrap,  and  bring  in  jeopardj. 
 Which  Poets  by  the  Sjrt's  and  Sjrens  do  imply. 
 
 3  And  therefore  did  the  famous  blinde  B/trds  quill^' 
 Prcferre  V/jJfes  in  his  Court  of  Fame, 
 
 Who  of  ibis  Temperance  had  got  the  skill, 
 Tore  u4jaxy  HeBor,  or  Achilles  name. 
 
 His  odjffes  may  teftifie  the  fame 
 Which  were  compos'd  his  Temperance  to  commend 
 By  which  he  men  and  monfters  overcame, 
 And  did-life,  honour,  chaftity  defend, 
 •'Gainft  Sjrens  and  Enchantments  to  his  latcft  end. 
 
 4^ 
 
OfTimferance.  1^3 
 
 4  And  fure  the  Heathen  to  all  Chrifiians fhame^, 
 Scem'd  wondroufly  us  herein  to  tranfcend. 
 But  that  they  wanted  that  moft  holy  flame 
 Of  Zeal  which  I  fo  lately  did  commend. 
 
 And  knowledge  which  (hould  guide  them  to  their  end. 
 All  that  they  had  by  natures  light  was  fliown^ 
 But  God  his  holy  Word  to  us  doth  fend. 
 Whereby  his  mfU^<^  Ctunfell  is  made  known. 
 What  fruit  then  ought  we  bear  where  fo  good  feed  is  fown ! 
 
 5  Eve  was  the  firft  Authour  of  Intemfemrtce^ 
 Led  by  her  eye,  nice  tafte,  and  fond  defirc 
 Of  Knowledge  with  proud  wicked  Ignorance^ 
 And  changM  Gods  lovo  to  everlafiing  ire. 
 
 The  Garden  loofing  for  erernall  fire ; 
 But  whdX  Jhe  loft  his  Temperance  doth  gain, 
 Whofe  aid  now  in  mine  entrance  I  delire 
 Who  from  all  food  did  forty  daies  abftain. 
 And  airs  Life  from  intemferate  thought,  word,  deed, refrain. 
 
 6  This  Virtue  fome  do  make  fo  cardinally 
 That  all  the  reft  in  her  they  would  imply-, 
 As  Love,  Peace,  Concord^Pudor  Virginall, 
 Gentlenefs,  Meeknefs,  Liberality, 
 
 Thrift,  Silence,  FriendJhip,Goodnefsy  Gravity^ 
 Honefly,  Purenefs,  all  true  moderation. 
 Which  doth  withhold  from  Sin  and  Vanity, 
 And  bringeth  unto  true  humiliation  : 
 Moft  happy  Mother  of  fo  fair  a  Generation, 
 
 But  in  fome  limits  that  I  may  her  bound, 
 I  her  define  to  be  a  moderation 
 Of  fuch  de fires  as  are  within  us  found 
 In  Diet,  AElions,  Words,  and  AffeBation  • 
 
 For  with  thefc  four  I  bound  ray  Meditation ; 
 In  Diet  (he  requires  Sobriety, 
 In  Anions  true  unfeigned  humiliation. 
 Her  }^'ords  fhe  gracech  aye  with  Alodefiy, 
 ^•nd  her  afeBions  charms  with  Meel^nefje,  Chafiity. 
 
 M  2  S  See 
 
1 64  Of  Temferance. 
 
 8  Sec  in  her  Diet  firft  Sobriety ^ 
 
 In  words  and  actions  true  humiliatioffy 
 
 Accompanied  with  precious  Modeftj, 
 
 Laft  Co77tinence  from  Lufl  and  angry  Pajfion ; 
 
 The  cauie  of  all  hfrudcnt  Moderation ; 
 The  aged  P.^.lmer,  S fencer,  Gujons  trufty  guide, 
 Thac  Hands  againft  2.[\  fiubbom  fertHrbation, 
 By  whofe  fage  help,  fecure  and  fafe  we  Aide, 
 By  whirl-pools  and  deep  gulfs  which  gape  for  us  fo  wi^c^ 
 
 9  For  xdl  through  this  worlds  boiftrous  Sea  muft  pafTe, 
 Before  we  ar  our  quiet  Hav^'n  arrive. 
 
 The  Boat  our  Body  is  as  brittle  glaffe. 
 
 Our  Steerf-njan  Temfcrmce  it  right  doth  drive. 
 
 Beddes  the  Rocks  that  threat  this  Boat  to  rive ; 
 Are  many  Gulfs  and  whirl-fools  of  decay 
 Which  wait  th' JjfeBicns  and  the  Senfcs  five 
 By  force  ?nd  fweet  Allurements  to  aflay. 
 Some  fail  by  rage  and  diet,  fome  by  luftfuU  play. 
 
 J  o  But  in  that  Body  where  doth  reafon  fway. 
 And  Senfe  and  Pajfion  be  obedient. 
 There  the  affcEiions  all  behold  you  may 
 In  happy  peace  and  goodly  government : 
 
 There  Terr.ferance  adorns  her  glorious  Tent, 
 With  virtues  all  to  make  it  fhine  moft  bright, 
 The  mirrour  of  Gods  works  moft  excellent. 
 And  to  them  all  fuch  bounteous  banquets  dight, 
 
 As  may  be  beft  for  Health /Praife,  Profit, ^tnd  Delight, 
 
 1 1  Moft  glorious  frame  of  nature  !  which  (he  built. 
 The  whole  world  in  one  point  t'epitomize, 
 Juft,  pure,  and  pcrfed,  till  intemf  rate  guilt. 
 Her  Makers  Hefts  by  Pride  did  foul  mifprife. 
 
 Since  that  fhc  learned  to  be  lowly,  wife. 
 And  not  obey  intemperate  defire. 
 Thus  (he  her  gloris^u  houfe  reedifies. 
 And  moft  of  all  doth  lowly  Cells  admire,. 
 
 The  loftieft  \s  no  place  for  temperate  retire. 
 
 1 2  She 
 
of  Temferance,  1 55 
 
 t%  She  therefore  never  comes  in  company. 
 
 Of  fuch  as  fwim  in  pride  and  bathe  in  bliffe. 
 
 Wafting  their  daies  in  eafe  and  luxury. 
 
 For  in  ftch  eafe  men  eafily  do  amiffe. 
 But  he  whofc  minde  in  ftudy  watchfuil  is, 
 
 Whofe  limbs  are  toylM  wirh  labour,  minde  with  pa'n  j 
 
 She  thefe  as  her  fweet  darlings  dear  doth  klfle. 
 
 The  idle  life  cannot  to  her  attain ; 
 Before  her  Gate  high  God  emfloyment  did  ordain. 
 
 1 3  ExcejfTe  doth  make  the  minde  of  beaftly  man. 
 Forget  his  firft  created  excellence  ; 
 
 Thar  pure  eftate  in  which  his  Life  began. 
 And  as  a  Beafi  that  wants  intelligence, 
 
 'Tvjhilfenfe  and  reafon  put  no  difference; 
 But  like  a  Brute  of  bafe  and  fwiniih  kinde ; 
 Delights  in  filth  and  foul  incontinence. 
 For  Luft  and  Wine  fo  far  transform  the  minde, 
 Affedions  bear  the  Sway,  and  royall  reafon  binde. 
 
 14  Thus  Bacchpts  Fonntams  turnM  to  fuddle  lake. 
 Wherein  like  filthy  beafts  bafe  men  lie  drown'd. 
 And  Swines  o^  Gods  fair  Imrges  do  make  ; 
 This  vice  hath  now  with  us  fuch  footing  found, 
 
 As  Drunkennefs  with  glory  doth  abound, 
 'Jfure  Liber,  wont  to  be  the  Mufes  friend, 
 AH  mufing,  wit  and  learning  doth  confound. 
 The  Flemings  this  did  firft  to  us  commend, 
 But  herein  we  them  and  all  Nations  now  tranfcencl. 
 
 1 5  No  bettrr  ftratagem  doth  Satan  knov^^ 
 
 ( I  alwaies  muft  except  bafe  drunkennefTe  ) 
 1  hen  gaming  all  our  youth  to  overthrow. 
 The  fruit  Intemperate  of  Idlenefs . 
 
 Oh  horrible  infernall  wickednefs 
 To  hear  a  wretch  his  Makers  Name  blafpheme. 
 When  Dice  or  Carding  crofTe  his  good  fucceffe. 
 And  ev'n  his  Soul  which  Chrift's  bloud  did  redeem. 
 With  his  eftate,  to  hazard  to  a  djes  efieem. 
 
'^66  of  TemferAtJce, 
 
 1 6  htemperatednnkjftgy  piajfjfmoakjntiLCtis^ 
 
 Is  now  our  gallants  only  occupation. 
 
 The  poifoning  fruits  of  their  loofe  idlencfs , 
 
 Bafe  GormandiKing,  filthy  Fornication 
 
 Is  turn'd  from  roul  reproach  to  commendation. 
 
 Now  ufe  oi  Arms  andmanlj  exercife. 
 
 Arc  held  a  toil  and  not  a  recreation ; 
 
 Who  fo  is  moderate,  chafie,  valiant,  ^ife^ 
 Him  as  precife  and  cynicall  they  do  defpife. 
 
 17  Oh  foolifli  man !  learn  Temperance  of  thy  Dog, 
 Thine  Horfe  and  Hawk,  whereinthou  tak'ft  delight. 
 Which  when  they  fjiould  fhew  fport  thou  doft  not  clog 
 And  fill  with  food  their  greedy  appetite ; 
 
 Thou  them  doft  diet  that  they  may  be  light. 
 
 And  keepft  from  Luft  their  courage  to  prolong. 
 
 One  dulls  the  Body  the  other  kils  the  Sprite, 
 
 But  Abftinence  doth  make  both  fwift  and  ftrong. 
 
 The  temperate  mans  daies  are  happy,  hcalthfiil,  long, 
 
 18  And  may  unto  Pauls  Pilot  be  compared, 
 Whofe  veflell  with  exceeding  tempeft  toft. 
 Unlades  and  lightens,  having  moft  regard. 
 To  fave  his  life  though  all  his  goods  be  loft  : 
 
 Ev'^n  fo  the  temperate  man  in  this  world  croft. 
 With  baits  of  appetite,  Luft,  anger,  PriJe, 
 Makes  ufe  of  thofe  that  for  his  ufe  are  moft. 
 But  needleffe  things,  wherewith  his  veffers  cloid. 
 With  his  own  hands  doth  to  the  hungry  fifh  divide. 
 
 1 9  When  behold  the  ftarry  Firmament, 
 AdornM  with  glorious  Lamps  of  heavenly  fire  • 
 Toe  Stars  with  their  appointed  rooms  content. 
 And  neither  other  to  fupplant  defire ; 
 
 ,  Their  Temperance  in  Heaven  I  do  admire : 
 But  then  I  view  the  ambitious  fparks  below. 
 Who  to  poffefs  the  whole  Earth  do  afpire ; 
 And  all  poor  Cottages  to  overthrow, 
 Thac  itopt  their  profpcd,  great  alone  on  earth  to  grow. 
 
 2Q  Nature 
 
OfTemferAfice,  167 
 
 5  Nature  with  fmall,  no  plenty  Lufl:  can  bound. 
 
 Unlimited  defircs  here  fatisfie. 
 
 No  Gold  nor  Silver  can  though  they  abound. 
 
 Like  ftones  amongft  the  ^ife  Kinqs  vanity^ 
 Though  Jt^es  Sonne  have  fuch  variety 
 
 Os  wives  and  Maids,  yet  comes  the  flrm^ey  Lufi, 
 
 Vrias  only  Lamb  for  him  muft  die. 
 
 No  home-bred  fare  can  fatisfie  bafe  duft ; 
 lUt  ftrange  rare  cates  from  forreign  Nations  have  we  muft. 
 
 I  The  temperate  man  I  to  a  Brook  compare. 
 Contented  with  fweet  Fountains  of  her  own  5 
 Which  runs  moft  plcafant,  pure,  delightfull,  deer ; 
 But  if  with  flouds  her  channels  once  be  flown. 
 Then  ftr eight  her  troubled  waters  foul  are  grown, 
 
 !  So  whil'ft  we  TemferAnce  with  us  retain. 
 And  no  excefs  of  Diet's  in  us  known, 
 
 !   Our  heart  from  ire,  our  bed  is  free  from  ftain, 
 
 3ut  ceafe  from  Temperance,  and  all  is  foul  again. 
 
 iz  And  as  pure  ftreams  continue  fweet  and  clear, 
 
 Whilft  they  within  their  Channels  fwiftly  flow, 
 
 Rcfrefhing  all  the  plants  and  flowers  neer. 
 
 But  if  they  idlely  ftand  or  run  but  flow. 
 
 Then  thick  and  foul  like  idle  lake  they  grow : 
 
 Ev*n  fo  the  man  that  doth  his  minde  advance. 
 
 His  Makers  heav*nly  will  to  do  and  know. 
 
 To  honour  (hall  be  raisM  above  all  chance. 
 But  he  that  idle  grows  fals  to  Intemperance. 
 
 zi  She  is  a  fhort  but  a  moft  pleafant  way, 
 
 Wherein  fmall  labour  is,  but  much  much  delight. 
 The  Emprejfe  that  doth  our  affedions  fway. 
 The  Genius  of  all  other  vertues  hight, 
 
 Pillar  of  Fortitude,  the  Helmet  bright, 
 Againft  Lafcivioufnefs,  the  ejes  befi  guide. 
 Bond  ofgoed-mll,  of  cogitations  light, 
 Reflraint,  the  Enemy  ot  Lufi  and  Tride, 
 
 The  Souls  chafie  CoHnfeUour  her  vows  and  prayers  to  guide. 
 
 M  4  24  Of 
 
24  O^^rudeytce  and  true  pvifezlom-ihc  foundation. 
 To  him  that  hath  her  can  no  ill  befall, 
 
 No  greater  wealth  can  be  then  contentation. 
 Who  hath  her,  hath  that,  who  lacks  that,  wants  all. 
 Who  nothing  need  ev'n  Gods  the  Heathen  call. 
 Tortune  may  bring  us  wealth  and  royall  fare. 
 But  Temperance  muft  give  content  withall. 
 By  her  we  freed  from  perturbations  are. 
 And  having  ddil;j  bread  do  take  no  further  care. 
 
 25  For  from  her  Temfer  (he  receives  her  name, 
 /.  s  being  of  extreanis  the  moderation, 
 
 'XhQ goUen meanih^i  doth  affeftions frame. 
 Anions  and  Words  to  natures  Ordination, 
 Unfpotted  pure  as  at  our  firft  Creation : 
 Thus  v/e  abftam  from  Lufi  and  Violence, 
 And  though  on  earth  is  yet  our  Converfation^ 
 We  hope  ere  long  to  be  received  hence. 
 Mean  while,  our  Life's  a  facrifice  of  Continence. 
 
 26  Thus  fee  our  protcp/^:J}s  firO:  clothM  in  skins 
 The  green  herb  of  the  field  their  only  we^t, 
 
 The  Beafis  their  Convives ^  and  the  fVoods  their  Innes., 
 To  (hield  from  cold,  and  lave  from  fcorching  heat, 
 
 And  all  this  muft  be  got  with  toil  and  fwcat. 
 No  living  thing  was  then  allowed  good ; 
 For  as  the  learned  think  man  might  not  cat, 
 Of  any  living  creature  till  the  Floud, 
 But  iince  as  the  green  herb  God  gave  them  all  for  fooi^. 
 
 2  J  How  often  did  the  Fathers  pray  and  faft. 
 
 And  fom.e  from  women,  fome  from  wine  abftain, 
 Till  (ixty  years  they  keep  their  bodies  chafte, 
 A  Temperate  and  chafte  kcd  here  to  obtain  : 
 
 When  Ruth  at  Boaz.  feet  all  night  had  lain  ; 
 He  iadeth  her  with  corn  and  fends  away. 
 From  lawlefs  Luft  he  doth  himfelf  contain. 
 Though  he  had  drank  and  cheer'd  his  heart  that  day. 
 
 An  habit  of  trit  Temperance  fee  here  you  may. 
 
of  Temp  ranee.  2  6p 
 
 2.S  7(7/fpi!7  would  not  againft  his  Maker  finne, 
 
 ^otFharaohs  Scevvards  Ladies  foft  embrace^ 
 
 Yet  cafier  'tis  a  walled  town  to  winne. 
 
 Then  to  refift  temptations  vile  and  bafe. 
 
 Nought fooner  doth  our  lives  with  Z/(/?  difgrace^' 
 
 Then  bathe  in  eafe  and  fwim  in  excefle. 
 
 Had  David  been  at  war  re  in  foah  place 
 
 He  had  not  fain  into  fuch  wicKcdnefs, 
 Adfdterj,  the  fruit  of  fullnefs,  Idlencfs. 
 
 29  Oh  tell  me  'David  where  was  then  become. 
 Thy  falling  wont  thy  foul  to  humble  fo. 
 That  it  was  wont  to  thy  reproach  to  come. 
 And  weakned  fo  thy  knees  thou  couldft  not  go  ? 
 Thy  tears  which  did  to  fnch  great  plenty  grow. 
 They  were  thy  meat  and  drink  both  day  and  night. 
 All  watering  thy  couch,  fo  they  did  flow. 
 That  ev'n  my  Mfffe  weeps  at  thy  piteous  plight. 
 
 Yet  had  thy  foul  therein  unfpeakable  delight. 
 
 5  o  I  cannot  but  admire  the  Temperance, 
 
 O^  t}\2it  great  Monarch,  mighty  Philip  Son, 
 
 Who  when  he  had  unto  his  governance, 
 
 'Darim  Empire,  wife  and  Daughters  won. 
 Their  beauty  would  by  no  means  look  upon  ; 
 
 Efteeming  it  a  moft  unworthy  deed. 
 
 When  he  fo  many  men  had  overcome. 
 
 To  be  of  one  weak  woman  conquered. 
 Like  Temperance  of  fo  young  a  Priuce  I  never  read. 
 
 3 1  Not  that  the  Heathens  Temper  I  compare. 
 
 To  thofe  that  have  been  truly  fandifide. 
 
 Of  which  Job  is  to  us  a  patern  rare ; 
 
 Who  left  his  eyes  fhould  draw  his  heart  afide. 
 Did  covenant  they  on  no  Maid  fhould  glide : 
 
 How  infinite  are  watchings,  faftings,  cold. 
 
 Which  to  fubdue  the  flefti  Paul  did  abide. 
 
 But  above  all  th'examples  I  have  told, 
 rhe  Z(?r/^7?-f^/^fr  and'sDifciples  lives  behold. 
 
 3  2  And 
 
lyo  of  Temferame. 
 
 9  2  And  though  whilft  that  the  Bridegroow  plca$*d  (o  flay,"    " 
 
 The  children  of  Bride-chAmber  did  not  faft,    "  ^ 
 
 Yet  when  from  them  he  taken  was  away. 
 
 Behold  they  then  did  pay  for  all  was  paft. 
 And  oft  did  hunger,  whip,  and  prifon  taftc ; 
 
 No  *Toets  quill  ere  able  was  to  fain, 
 
 Like Temperanceof  pure  Lamb  moft  tcmprate chafte. 
 
 Reviled,  fcoffed,  fcorned,  feourgcd,  flain. 
 Yet  openM  not  his  mouth  to  fcoffe  or  fpeak  again. 
 
 3  3  Oh  (hall  the  King  of  Angels  and  of  Men, 
 
 Abus'd  by  workmanfhip  of  his  own  hand. 
 
 Endure  fuch  wrongs  and  never  turn  agen : 
 ,.   Whofe  one  word  could  have  card  th* whole  heavenly  band 
 The  Fury  of  thefe  wretches  to  withftaud : 
 
 And  (hall  the  Lord  of  Life  fo  meekly  die, 
 
 For  our  irttemperate  affedions ;  and 
 
 Shall  not  we  them  all  with  him  crucifie. 
 And  flefhly  Members  of  our  Bodies  mortifie  > 
 
 34  But  we  like  Foxes  build  a  ftately  hall. 
 And  like  the  Birds  in  ftately  Cedars  neft. 
 When  He  that  did  of  nothing  make  them  all. 
 Had  not  a  place  to  lay  his  head  to  reft ; 
 
 We  fee  his  glorious  Members  here  diftreft. 
 Want  lodging,  food,and  raiment  for  the  cold, 
 Whil*ft  we  abound  in  meats,  and  fill  our  cheft 
 With  change  of  raiment  and  with  ftore  of  gold. 
 
 And  in  Birds  fofceft  plumes,  our  loofer  limbs  infold. 
 
 5  5  Alas  how  many  hunting  worlds  gay  (hows. 
 By  bafe  Intemperances  fweetned  bait. 
 And  vile  Ambition  which  down  headlong  throws. 
 Are  brought  to  ruine  moft  unfortunate ; 
 
 Oh  grant  that  I  may  live  in  mean  eftate. 
 And  my  freed  foul  with  Contemplation  pleafe ; 
 My  cloathing  warm,  my  diet  temperate. 
 Freed  from  all  tempefts  of  worlds  raging  Seas, 
 
 Which  tofs  poor  failing  fouls  in  dangerous  difeafc. 
 
 ?6Moft 
 
of  Temfermce,  tyJ 
 
 Moft  happy  who  with  little  is  content^ 
 rhat  though  he  want  yet  never  doth  complain^ 
 *^or  wilheth  more  his  forrow  to  augment, 
 Knowing  that  he  by  heaping  wealth  doth  gain^ 
 
 Nothing  but  care,  vexation,  and  pain ; 
 ;Vhat  more  then  daily  bread  here  do  I  need  > 
 A^hat  need  of  forrain  catcs  or  feathers  vain  ? 
 Let  fields  my  food,  my  flock  my  clothing  breed, 
 >  other  would  I  wear,  n©  other  would  I  feed. 
 
 In  vain  do  foolifli  men  the  Heav'ns  accufc 
 Of  fad  misfortunes,  pains,  and  injuries. 
 Which  do  (  if  we  knew  truly  them  to  ufe  ) 
 lo  ev'ry  man  what's  fitteft  for  him  fize: 
 
 That's  not  the  beft  eflate  which  moft  we  prize,' 
 ^3or  that  the  worft,  which  moft  men  feek  to  ihun. 
 Each  as  he  lift  his  fortunes  may  devife, 
 With  wifhes  no  man  happineflc  hath  wun, 
 :h  wiftiers  ceafe  to  live  before  their  life  begunJ 
 
 It  is  mans  minde  that  maketh  good  or  ill. 
 Wretched  or  happy,  fad,  glad,  rich  or  poor. 
 He  hath  abundantly  all  things  at  will. 
 That  having  little,  yet  defircs  no  more. 
 
 When  he  that's  drown'd  in  wealth  and  fwifis  in  ftore, 
 Doth  live  in  want  to  fatisfie  defire. 
 Which  never  hath  enough,  fond  fools  therefore. 
 Are  they  that  kcd  Lufts  and  Ambitions  fire; 
 hich  like  bafe  Avarice  doth  more  and  mere  require 
 
 When  firft  I  faw  the  glory  of  the  Great ^ 
 I  then  them  only  happy  men  did  hold. 
 For  furaptuous  houfes,  lodging,  raiment,  meat. 
 Honour,  Attendance^  Jewels,  Silver,  Gold, 
 But  when  the  cares  and  dangers  I  behold. 
 Of  thofe  whom  Fortune  doth  fo  high  advance,' 
 How  to  diffembling  flattery  fome  arc  fold ; 
 Luft,  Fulncfle,  IdlenefTe,  Intemperance ; 
 ^  life  I  happy  deem  in  quiet  lowly  chance. 
 
172  of  Temperance. 
 
 40  Thus  of  late  foIly*s,  I  though  late  complain,' 
 And  thac  fweet  Peace  which  doth  not  there  appear. 
 Now  iu  mine  homely  Celll  entertain. 
 
 Which  by  her  want  I  learn  to  love  more  dear ; 
 Sweet  holy  quiet  life !  where  meaneft  chear ' 
 To  hungry  ftomacks,  is  a  daily  feaft. 
 Where  thirft  like  Ne5iar  makes  frefli  cooling  beer ; 
 Where  in  a  cabbin  is  more  quiet  reft. 
 Then  on  Down  Perjtaft  hedi,  with  GfJld  and  Feathers  drefl 
 
 41  In  this  eftate  I  no  man  do  envy,  / 
 Nor  would  envied  be  of  any  one  ;"- 
 
 Great  ftore  of  wealth  doth  ftore  cxf  cares  fupply. 
 That  little  that  1  have  is  ftill  mine  own, 
 
 I  reap  with  Joy  the  crop  that  I  have  fown. 
 Without  leaft  care  but  only  to  attend  it. 
 The  Lamhs  I  wean  are  daily  greater  grown  : 
 What  have  I  but  to  praife  hira  that  doth  fend  it  > 
 And  with  a  cheerfull  heart  unto  the  poor  to  lend  it. 
 
 42  Thus  wrapt  with  contemplation  I  finde. 
 
 That  all  thefe  worlds-gay  (hows  which  men  admire. 
 Are  but  vdn  fhadon>s  to  the  joys  of  mindc 
 Of  thofe  that  leade  their  lives  in  fafe  retire ; 
 Whofe  only  happinefs  and  hearts  delires. 
 Is  here  the  talents  God  hath  lent  to  fpend 
 Unto  his  glory,  as  he  doth  require, 
 And  ufmg  Temperately  what  he  doth  fend ; 
 Thus  grant  that  I  may  live,  thus  grant  that  I  may  end< 
 
 MED] 
 
m 
 
 Meditat,  IV. 
 
 of  Bounty. 
 
 Ow  will  I  raife  fair  Alma*s  (lately  tower. 
 On  Temperance  her  ftrong  and  foundeft  frame  ; 
 And  goodly  deck  Biime  Bomtjs  dainty  bower, 
 Whereby  all  Princes  gain  immortall  fame : 
 Some  call  her  Alma,  fome  her  "Bounty  name. 
 The  trufty  Alnincr  oi  Loves  Royall  Court ; 
 Who  bears  the  bag  to  give  to  blinde  and  lame. 
 And  Suitors  all  that  thither  do  refort 
 lewar ds  moft  hounuoufy^  and  feeds  in  feemly  fort. 
 
 \  For  on  this  heavenly  Dame  the  eyes  of  all 
 
 Look  up,  that  of  her  liberality 
 
 They  may  receive^  and  (he  again  lets  fall. 
 
 Upon  them  needfull  things  moft  plentcoufly. 
 Her  bounteous  hand  (he  opens  willingly. 
 
 With  bleiTings  every  creature  full  to  fill. 
 
 To  thofe  that  Knowledge  feek  abundantly. 
 
 She  giveth  PVifedom^  Vnderfianding,  Skill, 
 Fo  know  their  Makers  Bountj.Majefij,  and  PvilL 
 
 J   Moft  glorious  Alma  I  w^henas  Tem^erams 
 
 Controls  the  noble  Plenty  of  her  Hall, 
 
 And  with  her  Staffe  keeps  out  Intemperance,  f 
 
 Which  doth  abufe  her  Grace  and  Bonntj  all ; 
 For  where  moft  Plenty  is,  there  moft  doth  fail 
 
 By  want  of  Temperance  to  Luft  and  Sin, 
 
 Till  they  be  brought  low  as  the  T^redigall, 
 
 For  he  that  will  true  Praife  by  Bounty  win, 
 Vluft  firft  of  all  at  home  with  Temperance  begin. 
 
174  ^j  ^o^^f^y- 
 
 4  For  TemftrAftce  with  warchfull  dUigtnce, 
 Are  like  two  Springs  which  waters'do  fupply. 
 To  open-handed  free  beneficence^ 
 
 And  her  difcerns  trom  Frodi^alitj, 
 By  DiUge?icc  we  get  fuffidency. 
 By  TemfevAfice,  what  we  have  gotten,  fpare 
 To  minilier  to  Liher4Utj, 
 For  thcle  two  Ladj-Boumtj  handmaids  are, 
 And  tor  her,  Juft,  and  truly,  *tore  of  wealth  prepare. 
 
 5  But  they  that  live  mpth  arJfcul  excefs. 
 Though  they  they  may  fecm  to  be  moil  liberall, 
 Oppre£J9r,  and  ExtortUn  mcrcilefle. 
 
 Are  L^^es  from  whence  their  BduntiesflreAms  do  fall. 
 
 And  thus  they  rob  the  poor,  that  thercwithall 
 They  may  themlclvcs,  rich  friends,  and  children  feaft, 
 Blafphcming  their  great  Maker,  Lord  of  all, 
 And  imitating  bafelt  favage  bcaft. 
 Which  fawns  upon  the  geeat  but  doth  devour  the  leaft. 
 
 6  God  of  all  "BoUHtj,  King  mfi  LiherAll, 
 Who  to  thy  vaflall  Man  at  his  Creation, 
 
 Didft  fjbjed  make,  Filli,Fowl,Bea{ls,Creatures  all. 
 And  of  thine  haniy-worKs  gav'il  domination ; 
 
 Who  by  thy  Providence  and  Ordination 
 Him  needfull  things  not  only  doft  provide. 
 But  for  his  health,  delight  and  contentation. 
 That  he  may  plenty  to  the  poor  divide. 
 My  Mnfe  to  ling,  heart,  hands,  to  pradife  "Bountj  guide, 
 
 7  B^fiKty,  "Beneficeyice,   Bemgyntj, 
 
 In  Name  though  divers,onc  in  fubftance  be. 
 Benevolence  and  Liheralitj, 
 Make  A[}ic?is  and  .rjfeElio»s  agree. 
 
 If  as  they  are,  in  God  you  wi(h  to  fee. 
 They  like  his  Goednejfe  are  unlimited, 
 And  as  his  Mercy ,  Love,  and  Grace  are  free. 
 Which  on  his  Creatures  are  abundant  (hed. 
 But  by  my  ftiallow  Mufe  their  depth  cannot  be  read. 
 
 ST 
 
%  They  are  too  high  to  reach,  too  deep  to  found. 
 For  all  the  earth  is  filled  therewithal! : 
 In  heav'n  above  Gods  Goodnefe  doth  abound. 
 The  Bounty  of  huf  Grace  \s  over  all ; 
 Of  all  the  MeditatirHS  which  call 
 My  minde,  to  holy  foy  and  admiration. 
 None  lets  more  comfort  then  Gods  Bof/ntj  fail. 
 Both  for  ray  being  and  my  prefcrvation. 
 
 But  moft  in  that  he  fhed  his  bloud  for  my  Salvation* 
 
 p  Here  could  I  wi(h  my  Mufe  might  ever  dwell. 
 
 In  viewing  Gods  great  Goednefs,  Bountj,  LovCy 
 
 Which  three  to  th'holy  Trinity  I  well 
 
 May  here  afcribe ;  For  Goodnefs  nri  doth  move 
 The  Father  to  beget  Etentall  Love, 
 
 From  Love  and  Goodnefe,  Bounty  doth  proceed  ; 
 
 Yet  all  thcfe  three  as  one  in  God  do  prove. 
 
 In  fubftance  one,  although  diftinguiftied 
 In  working ;  But  this  height  my  reach  deth  far  exceed. 
 
 I  o  And  therefore  ravifht  now  with  contemplation. 
 
 Beyond  the  compafTe  of  my  feeble  eye. 
 
 My  foul  amaz'd  fals  down  to  adoration 
 
 Of  this  myfterious  holy  Trinity, 
 And  from  divine  come  to  benignity^ 
 
 And  Bounty  which  fhould  be  in  men  below, 
 
 A  habit  we  of  liberality 
 
 Her  call,  and  good  affedion  we  (liould  fliow 
 In  thought ,  heart,  ^ord,  and  deed,  to  ev^'ry  one  we  kno^, 
 
 3 1  And  muft  from  goodnefe  and  true  love  proceed. 
 
 The  only  caufe  of  true  benignity. 
 
 Wherefore,  except  thefe  be  m  us  indeed, 
 
 Our  bounty  is  but  prodigality  : 
 Or  fomc  \\ktfioth  offuperfiMty, 
 
 The  cruras  and  leavings  of  Intemperance, 
 
 Which  oft  are  dealt  out  wath  an  evil  eye. 
 
 More  for  vain  credit  or  bafe  circumftance, 
 Then  for  good  will  or  care  Gods  glory  to  advance. 
 
 J 2  For 
 
176  OJ  JSounty,     • 
 
 12  For  ev*ry  ad  hath  then  her  true  cffcd. 
 Which  from  true  ground  right  aimeth  at  her  end 
 As  when  both  hve  and  ^ood'/jefs  doth  dired: 
 What  i;omtj  truly  gets,  aright  to  fpend  .• 
 
 Lo  thus  doth  heavenly  grace  and  i;omty  fend 
 Her  bleiiiogs  temporall  alike  to  all  5 
 Bat  doth  far  greater  benefits  intend. 
 To  thofe  that  on  Gods  Name  aright  do  call. 
 And  in  this  heav'nly  fort  ought  we  be  liberall. 
 
 1 3  Oh  then  th'effeds  of  l?ountj  glorious  are 
 When  Providence  with  true  Frngalitj^  \ 
 Do  feek  by  juftice  to  provide  and  fpare 
 Fit  fuftenance  for  liberality ; 
 
 Behold  that  heavenly  bounteous  Majefij, 
 Sends  nain  and  fruitful  leafons,  whereby  llore 
 Of  Bleffings,  th'earth  may  to  his  hand  fupply. 
 And  many  hidden  Treafures  up  doth  florc 
 For  to  exalt  the  rich,  and  to  refrefh  the  pore. 
 
 14  Then  humane  bountj  like  her  Makers  is, 
 Whenas  fhe  labours  to  do  good  to  all ; 
 But  moft  of  all  to  bring  poor  fouls  to  blifle. 
 And  fill  their  hearts  with  food  fpirituall ; 
 
 Oh  Grace  Divine  !  'Bounty  Angelicall, 
 y^ixh  jpirituall  Loaves  in  Wilder neffe  to  ittd 
 Gods  Saints,  when  fpirituall  hunger  tbem  doth  gall^ 
 The  ignorant  which  pine  with  inward  need. 
 Divine  fweet  comforts  to  their  fainting  fouls  to  reade. 
 
 1 5  True  BoH'iitys  known  beft  by  her  company. 
 For  fhe  in  Truth  and  Mercy  takes  delight ; 
 laith  Juftice,  Temperance^  Humility^ 
 
 And  is  with  all  Loves  Graces  richly  dight. 
 
 Herein  appears  her  glorious  heav'nly  Sprite : 
 Shewing  that  (he  of  feed  divine  is  born, 
 O?  Love  and  Goodnefs,  not  of  vain  delight^ 
 Of  Fame  and  Praife  of  men,  when  fhe  doth  fcom 
 To  feck  fcign'd  bounteous  fhews,  her  goodnefs  to  adorn. 
 
 16F 
 
5  For  thus  xh'amhiHoH^  man  is  bomtlffill. 
 
 Thus  belly-gods  in  plenty  take  delight, 
 
 Tfeceit  mih gifts  his  neighbour  fecks  10  gull. 
 
 The  covetous  bribe  large  to  conquer  right ; 
 
 /    From  fuch  falfe  Bounty,  Truth  is  banifht  quite, 
 
 Hftmliitj,  Fath,  Knowledge, Temp  trance. 
 
 Nor  any  oi Loves  Graces  in  her  fight. 
 
 May  fuflfercd  be  their  enfignes  to  advance, 
 here  dwels  Contentkn^Tridcj  Ofpeffion,  Ignorance^ 
 
 7  As  drnghterso^^thorfe- leech,  ftiildocry. 
 
 Give,  give  5  as  Grave  and  Hell  be  never  full. 
 
 So  nought  the  covetous  eye  can  fatisfie. 
 
 But  he  that's  liberall  and  bountifull 
 
 Is  like  full  clouds  which  do  moft  plentifull 
 
 Water  the  earth,  and  pour  down  (tore  of  rain. 
 
 Yet  are  not  empty ;  for  the  merciful! 
 
 And  liberall  (hall  greater  plenty  gain, 
 
 nd  he  that  fcatterech  fhall  finde  encreafe  again. 
 
 3  That  hand  is  never  empty  of  reward. 
 Whereas  good-will  the  hearts  cheft  filieth  full. 
 And  boHntj  never  is  fo  much  afeard, 
 Cauflefs  to  give,  As  not  be  bountifull 
 
 Where  need  requires ;  His  face  is  beautifull 
 Where  fweet  good-will  both  heart  and  looks  have  joynMj 
 But  th'envious  and  mahcious  do  pull, 
 On  wrinkles ;   And  a  man  fhall  ever  find^, 
 he  beauty  of  the  face  t©  alter  with  the  minde. 
 
 ?  Bountj  is  like  unto  the  glorious  Sun, 
 Which  as  a  'Bridegroom  doth  from  chamber  glide, 
 And  as  a  Gjant  joys  his  courfe  to  run 
 From  Eafi  to  weft,  mot^  fwifcly  he  doth  ride, 
 Nothmg  from^s  ferciie  heat  it  felf  can  hide ; 
 He  doth  not  look  that  one  hira  up  ihould  call ; 
 So  Bounty  deals  her  Graces  far  and  wide, 
 And  Blefiings  without  asking  fends  to  ail ; 
 cpcding  not  vain  praife  where  fhe  lets  graces  fall. 
 
 N  20  At 
 
20  As  fome  fair  glorious  garment,  which  we  wear 
 Upon  our  fhoulders,  reathing  to  the  ground, 
 Covers  all  Ipots,  and  Neves  that  on  us  arc  ; 
 
 So  wliere  this  noble  bomtj  doth  abound. 
 It  covercth  all  faults  that  can  be  found. 
 For  as  Love  covers,  fo  doth  Bounty  hide 
 A  multitude  of  fins,  and  dotii  confound, 
 By  her  bright  Beams,  Detr^H^ion,  Envy,  Pride , 
 Alas  thefe  are  too  weak  where  Botititfs  on  our  fide. 
 
 2 1  She's  like  unto  the  Lamp  of  glorious  day. 
 Which  doth  divide  the  darknefle  from  the  light. 
 For  whereas  Bounty  doth  her  beams  difplay. 
 Behold  bright  day,  without  them  there  is  flight; 
 
 The  King  that  by  \i\s  bounty  doth  invite. 
 His  Sub;e(!^s  hearts  to  Love  and  Honour  due. 
 Sleeps  more  fecure  then  he  that  doth  by  might 
 And  fear  ftrong  Forts  and  walled  Towns  fubdue, , 
 And  for  his  guards  encompafled  with  armed  erue. 
 
 22  Bounty  and  Benefits  are  ev'n  the  Bands, 
 O^  Co'fword,  and  as  fire  doth  quickly  dye. 
 That  is  not  foftered  with  coals  or  brands ; 
 So  dies  true  Love  with  men  :   Except  fupply 
 
 Be  made  by  gifts  and  liberality  ; 
 Who  doth  the  wandring  foul  direct  aright, 
 Though  with  him  he  doth  deal  m.oll  bounteoully^ 
 Yet  doth  he  but  his  fellows  candle  light, 
 And  to  another  gives,  yet  lofeth  felf  no  light. 
 
 2  3   True  'Bounty  feeks  high  God  to  imitate, 
 Who  to  the  moil  unthankful  is  moft  free, 
 Sol  doth  his  light  to  Theeves  participate 
 And  without  tempefts  Pirates  fail  on  Sea, 
 
 The  Heav'ns  of  all  good  things  the  Authours  be^^I 
 Fnir  fortunes  to  ungrateful!  fools  do  fend. 
 As  on  y  feeking  to  do  good  :  fo  we 
 (  Though  oft  in  vain  our  hjunty  we  do  fpend) 
 
 To  the  unthaal.full  muft,  as  to  the  thankfuli  lend. 
 
 24C 
 
Oj  Bmntj,  179 
 
 24  Gods  ^#i^»i?y s  like  to  incenfe  and  perfume, 
 Caft  on  an  heart  inflamed  with  holy  zeal, 
 Which  praifcs  up  like  clouds  of  fraoak  doth  fume. 
 And  fweeteft  odours  round  about  doth  deal : 
 
 (Jlfafts  boHnty  is  like  widows  crufe  or  meal. 
 Which  fpent  upon'  the  'Prophet  grows  to  more. 
 Like  Surgeons  skill,  which  as  more  doth  heal. 
 Doth  grow  more  cunning  then  he  was  before. 
 The  diligent  and  bounteous  hand  want  never  (lore. 
 
 25  As  many  fruits  do  fair  encreafc  and  grow. 
 Not  fo  much  by  the  nature  of  the  ground. 
 
 As  by  the  hountj  which  from  Heav'n  doth  flow. 
 And  temperate  air  that  is  above  them  found. 
 So  all  good  ayfrts  in  nobleft  wits  abound, 
 More  by  fome  Princes  liherality^ 
 And  high  regard  they  have  oi  Mnfes  found. 
 That  their  own  nature,  ftrcngth,  and  induftry, 
 Beft  friends  to  tyfrts  are  Bmntj  and  Humanity, 
 
 26  Should  I  but  here  recount  the  names  of  all. 
 Whom  Iromtfull  in  holy  Writ  I  finde, 
 
 I  of  your  ratience  fliould  be  prodigall. 
 And  my  (hort  time  for  this  difcourfe  aflign'd. 
 
 Let  rae  their  names  up  in  a  bundle  binde; 
 Which  if  you  pleafe  to  ope  as  fweetly  fmcll, 
 As  Camphires  Kujh :  my  Mufe  is  now  inclin'd. 
 Of  fome  prophane  examples  here  to  tell. 
 Which  feem  in  noble  Bounty  others  to  excell. 
 
 27  Then  treafure  Cjriu  more  his  friends  efteemM^ 
 Whereof  he  multitudes  by  bounty  won  : 
 
 And  ^Alexander  greateft  glory  deem'd. 
 By  bounty  never  to  be  overcome  ; 
 
 A  King  Q^  Egypt  thought  it  better  done. 
 His  Subjcds  coffers  then  his  own  to  fill : 
 Whenas  zAlphonftu  heard  Vejpafians  fon, 
 Accounted  that  day  loft,  when  for  good  will 
 He  had  giv'a  nought;  faid,  I  ne're  fpent  a  day  fo  iJL 
 
 N  i  iS  B«^ 
 
28   Behold  1  thefe  five  examples  live  In  one. 
 
 The  hmnttom  Monarch  that  our  Scepter  fways, 
 \      Efteems  his  friends  'bove  gold  or  precious  ftone. 
 And  overcomes  ev'n  all  chat  him  obays. 
 
 By  foyeraign  Bounty  to's  immortal!  praife. 
 No  King  fo  fills  his  Subjeds  chefts  with  gold. 
 His  hounUom  deeds  in  number  paiTe  his  daies  : 
 Ah  !  how  then  dare  my  niggard  rimes  be  bold. 
 The  facred  bounty  of  my  Soveraign  to  unfold. 
 
 2^  Who  hoards  not  up  his  weakh  in  Cave  or  Tower, 
 Nor  into  prifons  dark  condemns  his  gold. 
 But  as  on  him  from  Heav'n  all  Bieiiings  (bower, 
 So  are  his  to  us  Subjeds  manifold  : 
 
 As  froi]i  thick  clouds  we  numbcrlefle  behold. 
 Large  ftreams  of  fruitful!  rain  on  earth  to  fall ; 
 So  is  his  largenefic  to  his  fervants  told. 
 Who  entring  poor,  rich  return  from  his  hall. 
 
 Like  Tagm  golden  fands  his  hands  are  liber  all. 
 
 3  o  Vouchfafc  O  botrnfeous  Soveraign  \  hear  thy  thrall. 
 After  thy  cloud,  a  fubjeds  drop'd  to  fing ; 
 Whom  thou  didft  to  deferved  honour  call. 
 And  was  in  name  and  bouncy  as  a  King  : 
 
 Who  in  thy  bounteous  (teps  thee  following 
 Did  from  obicurity  my  Fortmes  raife, 
 Wichoijt  defrit  of  my  leaft  offering, 
 He  row  in  H  •av'*n  his  bounteous  King  doth  praife, 
 
 A>  he  with  b  y:?.ty  honourM  him  here  all  his  daies. 
 
 ^3   A  id  let  us  all  his  bounteous  praifes  fing, 
 
 Whofc  bitintj  us  from  Hell  and  Death  doth  ralfc, 
 Our  bleffed  Saviour ,  Frovhet,  Pnefi,  and  King, 
 Who  here  in  bounteom  deeds  fpent  all  his  daics ; 
 
 Cafting  out  devils,  faving  fouls  alwaies. 
 Healing  the  fick,  giving  the  biinde  their  fight,. 
 Mourns  for  our  fins,  for  enemies  he  prays, 
 Comforts  the  rich,  and  feeds  the  hungry  wight, 
 
 L.  d  itill  in  doing  good  doth  fee  his  whole  delight. 
 
 32H< 
 
of  "'Bounty,  igi 
 
 }2  Ho«^  could  malicious  heart  of  envious  man, 
 
 Confcnc  to  murther  fuch  a  bounteom  King  ? 
 
 Scourge,  fcorn,  deride,  defpight  him  what  they  can, 
 
 Stiii  in  his  bounteous  deeds  perfevering; 
 
 Yea  when  unto  the  CrolTe  they  him  do  bring, 
 
 father  they  hpow  mt  What  thej  do^he  cries  ; 
 
 And  when  his  body  hangs  their  torturing. 
 
 He  to  the  Theef  not  Paradife  denies ; 
 rhus  doing  good  he  lives ;  Thus  doing  good  he  dies. 
 
 3  3   what,  doth  the  Lord  of  Life  eternal!  die  f 
 
 Which  unto  us  eternall  life  doth  give ; 
 
 See  his  large  bounty  and  benignity , 
 
 He  gave  his  life  for  us  that,  we  might  live. 
 
 What  heart  of  ftone  doth  not  here  melt  or  rive 
 
 But  with  his  Life,  his  Bounty  doth  not  end. 
 
 He  by  his  Will  and  Teftament  doth  give 
 
 Us  Heaven,  yea,  more  the  Comforter  doth  fend^ 
 With  millions  of  Angels  on  us  to  attend. 
 
 34  Who  can  of  this  his  Saviours  'Bounty  tafte. 
 
 And  to  his  members  not  be  bountifulU 
 
 If  thou  want  wealth  and  coin,  give  what  thou  hafl. 
 
 And  let  our  hearts  bs  alwaies  mercifull. 
 And  like  the  fertile  ground  yeeld  plentiful! 
 
 Encreafe  of  all  the  feeds  which  thereon  grow, 
 
 'Tis  Bounty  that  doth  fill  our  garners  full. 
 
 He  fparing  reaps  that  fparingly  doth  fow. 
 True  Bounty  s  noble  hand  no  want  did  ever  know. 
 
 3  5  But  ah  too  many  covetous  of  Praife 
 And  Glory  do  by  fraud  and  rapine  fpoil 
 Others,  that  they  thereby  their  Names  may  raife. 
 And  fome  goods  gotten  by  much  care  and  toil. 
 
 Spend  on  their  pleafures,  aed  thereby  beguile. 
 Their  poor  and  needy  Neighbour  of  his  right. 
 Drinking  and  furfetting  in  cafe  the  while, 
 And  fpending  frankly  on  fome  bafc  delight. 
 
 Like  Brutes  are  bountifuil  to  their  own  appetite, 
 
 N  3  36  Som< 
 
?82  OfBonntj.  ..^^^^^ 
 
 36  Some  only  by  their  ^o«»r;  feck  for  fame. 
 
 And  thefe  arc  only  to  Ambition  free. 
 
 Some  Patrons  now  aday's  fuch  Shcpheards  nime  j 
 
 To  feed  the  Flock  as  loofe  and  Idle  Bee. 
 
 Wealth  unto  wealth  to  adde  they  all  agree  :  '^■■ 
 
 No  man  rcfpeds  the  needy  and  the  poor. 
 
 The  empty  veflcls  empty  ftill  we  fee ; 
 
 They  that  are  full,  to  them  is  added  more, 
 Dry  hills  ^ant  ^ater,  when  the  valleys  fivim  with  ftorc' 
 
 3  7  As  Knights  which  of  the  noble  Order  arc 
 
 Oi Garter^  that  they  better  may  be  known,  ^ 
 
 A  golden  George  about  their  neck  do  wear,  j 
 
 Nor  do  the  fame  at  any  time  lay  down. 
 
 Whereby  their  nobleneffe  (hould  be  unknown  %■ 
 So  Nobles  alwaies  wear  'Benignity, 
 whereby  whofe  Sons  you  are  ye  may  be  fliown,  ^ 
 
 For  nothing  proves  you  Sons  of  the  mofl  High,  .. 
 
 More  then  your  Bounty2indL  true  Liberality. 
 
 08  But  offalfe  Bounty  you  do  vainly  boafl-. 
 
 Delighting  in  vain  pailimc,  oyl  and  Wine, 
 
 And  gluttons  feed  for  glory  to  your  coft; 
 ,    Whilil  at  your  doors  the  poor  may  fterve  and  pine. 
 You  welcone  fuch  as  you  invite  to  dine ; 
 
 But  fcarce  afford  rhe  poor  fcraps  at  your  gate ; 
 
 Wiiich  fhew  that  all  your  bonntj  is  to  joyn 
 
 Credit  and  glory  to  your  great  eftate, 
 And  but  for  Crows  and  Kites,  or  Daws  to  lay  a  Bait. 
 
 39  You  for  a  million  at  a  caft  will  play. 
 
 And  hazard  all  your  fortunes  at  a  game. 
 
 And  grudge  not  for  one  dainty  bit  to  pay 
 
 A  thoufand,  and  then  glory  in  the  fame. 
 
 With  gold  you  trick  and  trim  up  fome  loofe  Dame, 
 
 The  fink  that  fucks  up  all  your  Liberality, 
 
 Thus  lavifli  you  to  your  eternall  (hame. 
 
 All  that  your  fathers  got  by  their  FrugMity, 
 And  left  to  you  to  fpend  in  bcnntetHs  hojpitality. 
 
 40  Bravi 
 
of 'Bounty,  1B3 
 
 ^0  Brave  Alexanders  deeds  for  aye  commends 
 His  wondrous  confidence  and  bounty  rare. 
 Who  dealing  out  amongft  his  faithfull  friends. 
 Lands,  houfes.  Towns,  he  gold  and  all  did  (Vjarc; 
 
 When  one  befought  him  wifely  to  forbear, 
 For  what,  faid  he,  alas,  is  left  the  King  f 
 New  hopes  of  gaming  more,  faid  he,  there  are. 
 Thus  on  his  fate  and  fortunes  venturing 
 The  Heav'ns  propitious  feem'd,  to  him,  in  ev'ry  thing, 
 
 41  But  ah  I  poor  Prince !  thy  hofes  are  all  but  vain, 
 As  were  the  Benefits  thou  didtt  expofe ; 
 
 But  we  are  certain  of  eternall^^/;?, 
 \ibounteeufly  Gods  bleflings  we  difpofe  : 
 
 Ah  I  what  is  it  if  worldly  things  we  loofe  1 
 And  thereby  gain  us  an  Etemall  Crown, 
 Which  heavenly  Bounty  laieth  up  for  thofe. 
 That  their  own  glory  willingly  lay  down. 
 And  what  they  reap  by  bounty  bounteoufiy  have  fown. 
 
 42  Such  all  within  moft  glorioufly  (hall  fhine. 
 Their  veftiments  fhall  be  of  twined  Gold  ; 
 They  (hall  of  Hony  tafte  and  fpiced  Wine ; 
 
 And  all  the  Bridegrooms  fruits  both  new  and  oid. 
 
 He  gently  will  fu  ch  in  his  arms  infold  ; 
 And  fatifie  their  fenfe  with  pleafing  fmell, 
 No  ear  hath  heacd,  no  tongue  hath  ever  told. 
 The  Joy  and  'B aunty  that  with  him  do  dwell. 
 But  more  of  thefe  where  next  of  heavenly  foy  I  telL 
 
 N4  MEDI- 
 
i84 
 
 ^ 
 
 ^'^^'^^'^^^^^^^^^^^^''^/^^^^^ 
 M  E  D  I  T  A  T.     V^ 
 
 0/  Sfiritud  dnd  Heavenly  Joy . 
 
 1  ^^•l^'i^^Ow  (hould  a  heart  oppreft  with  worldly  carer, 
 ■"^  11  ^  Of  Spiritual  inward  foy  now  rightly  fing ; 
 
 *  ^   And  feels  the  Sprits  inward'^Htneffing  :  j 
 
 All  facred  ftuffe  I  to  this  building  bring 
 No  help,  but  he  that  Al^ha  Father  crys, 
 Can  teach  my  Mufe  to  touch  this  golden  firing, 
 I  therefore  here  forbear  prophane  fupplies. 
 My  Spirit  wholly  on  the  holy  Spirit  relies. 
 
 2  Well,  faid  the  King,  All  worldly  things  are  vain. 
 And  travell  which  beneath  the  Sun  he" found 
 Compared  to  leaft  drop  or  minutes  gain. 
 Which  Sfirituall  foj  did  to  his  heart  propound  • 
 
 No  reach  GfjViz.ards  skill,  no  wit  profound, 
 Is  able  this  true  foy  to  comprehend, 
 This  Mufick  wholly  to  the  Saints  doth  found. 
 The  inward  man-can  only  apprehend, 
 Sweet  lively  Sfirituall  foy,  which  never  (hall  have  end. 
 
 3  No  y^^/fJ  darling  ever  yet  did  dream, 
 
 Of  this  fweet  winde,  which  where  it  lifts  doth  blow  j 
 This  only  is  fweet  Ifraels  Singers  theam. 
 Which  he  by  heav'nly  influence  did  fhow; 
 
 And  then  moft,  when  the  outward  man  brought  lov^r. 
 By  pain  of  body  or  by'grief  of  minde. 
 Did  from  his  pen  divineft  comforts  flow 
 Moil  herv'nly  Jgjs  which  he  was  wont  to  finde. 
 To  grow  more  Ih  ong  within  as  he  without  deciin'd. 
 
 4  O^ 
 
Ofjoy.  I8S 
 
 Oh  Joy  offoys  I  Utifpeakable  delight, 
 Ev*n  when  our  fouls  the  powers  of  hell  do  (hake. 
 And  us  with  Juftice  and  due  vengeance  fright, 
 Whenas  our  guilty  confcience  is  awake. 
 
 That  all  with  terrour  tremble,  horrour  quake ; 
 That  then  one  gentle  i^eam  of  heavenly  Grace^ 
 Not  only  (hall  from  us  this  horrour  take. 
 But  in  Loves  arms  us  in  an  inftant  place. 
 They  only  know  this  foj  that  have  been  in  this  cafe. 
 
 5  If  ever  I  received  ftrength  and  skill 
 
 From  Heav'n  to  fcale  the  hill  oi  contemflation^ 
 I  now  do  hope  Gods  gracious  S fir  it  will. 
 Me  nil  with  Joy  for  his  fwcet  Meditation ; 
 
 Oh  bleS''ed  Spirit  1  who  by  fweet  infpiration, 
 Diredeft  ev'ry  holy  Prophets  quill. 
 Enlighten  mine  by  heav'ns  illumination. 
 That  moft  divine  fweet  fojs  it  may  diftill 
 Into  the  Readers  heart,  and  mine  with  comfort  fill. 
 
 6  No  tongue  could  ever  tell,  no  heart  conceive. 
 Therefore  no  Art  is  able  to  define 
 Whditis  the  imvardfoj  which  we  receive 
 
 By  peace  of  confcience  and  grace  divine : 
 But  fure  it  is  that  fpeciall  mark  or  fign, 
 Which  on  our  fouls  the  holy  jpirit  ofGraee 
 Moft  gently  doth  imprint  and  lively  line. 
 Whereby  we  do  behold  Gods  chearfall  face, 
 And  fpiritually  feel  our  Bridegrooms  fvveec  embrace 
 
 7  There  is  a  mturall  and  carnall  foy. 
 Be  fides  this  inward  joy  jpirituall. 
 
 By  one  we  common  ble flings  here  enjoy,     • 
 By  th'other  we  in  fin  and  errour  fall ; 
 Thofe  be  partakers  o^Joy  naturall. 
 That  health  of  body  have  and  worldly  ftore. 
 The  carnal  foy  we  finful  pleafures  call, 
 ExcefTc  of  meat  and  wine.  Lips  of  a  whore. 
 And  all  mans  vain  delights  'gainft  rule  of  hcav'a  lore, 
 
 ■     -     8TIieic 
 
.186  Of  Joy: 
 
 8  Thefe  Joys  which  with  falfe  pleafurcs  us  deceive. 
 Arc  not  of  kin  to  foj  fpirituall ; 
 
 For  that  they  alwaies  do  our  hearts  bereave 
 Of  inward  Joys  pure  food  Angdicatt; 
 
 Gods  goodnefle  is  th'efficient  caufe  of  all. 
 And  though  each  pcrfon  in  the  Trinity 
 May  feem  to  have  a  working  feverall. 
 Yet  all  m  one,  and  one  in  ail  agree. 
 With  foj  here  to  begin  mans  true  fclicitce. 
 
 9  There  many  caufes  are  material). 
 
 Why  we  this  inward  joy  in  us  (hould  have ; 
 Godsfieeft  grace  which  doth  raoft  furely  call. 
 All  thofe  that  he  elected  hath  to  fave ; 
 
 The  Peace  ofConfciencey  which  foj  us  gave. 
 And  eke  the  Joy  of  our  SanUification  : 
 Whereby  ev'n  heavens  inheritance  we  crave. 
 And  certainly  expeft  glorification. 
 And  are  invited  guefts  to  heav'ns  farticifation. 
 
 I  o  As  are  Gods  gifts  and  graces  infinite. 
 
 So  caufes  are  of  foy  jpirituall ; 
 It  fils  my  foul  with  infinite  delight, 
 When  all  his  benefits  to  minde  1  call ; 
 
 But  none  like  this  that's  Sonne  fhould  fave  us  all. 
 By  that  great  fecret  of  his  Incarnation, 
 Which  made  the  Babe  into  Joys  Pajfim  fall. 
 At  bleffed  Mothers  heav'nly  Salutation, 
 And  made  blindc  Simeons  foul  rej  oyce  in  his  Salvation. 
 
 I I  This  made  the  Mother  of  the  *Bahe  to  fing. 
 And  her  fweet  little  Lord  to  magnifie. 
 
 Her  Saviour  which  ftie  in  her  arms  did  bring ; 
 This  made  in  hcov*nly  Hoft  fuch  melody. 
 
 When  news  was  brought  of  his  Nativity  ; 
 Oh  foy  of  Joys  !  to  you  is  born  this  day 
 A  Savionry  God  from  all  eternity ; 
 This  made  the  Wife- men  from  the  Eaft  to  ftray, 
 And  offer  to  him  gifts  chat  in  a  manger  lay. 
 
 TJ 
 
OfPy.  187 
 
 This  made  the  hely  King  propheticall, 
 Though  many  pleafanc  Lays  to  Harp  he  fing. 
 Strain  none  fo  high,  and  fo  patheticall, 
 As  thofe  of  his  Son^  Saviour^  Lord,  and  King  : 
 
 Oh  then  each  ftroak  he  ftrikes  to  heav'n  doth  ring. 
 His  heart  rejoyceth,  and  his  tongue  is  glad. 
 Such  Joy  doth  hope  of  refurredion  bring. 
 That  though  his  flcrh  be  with  corruption  clad, 
 lis  heart  (hall  never  faint,  nor  foul  be  ever  fad. 
 
 3  We  for  this  hofe  it  count  exceeding  Joy 
 When  we  do  fail  on  many  fore  temptations. 
 And  when  afflidions  moft  abound,  we  foy 
 In  Trials,  Sufferings,  and  Tribulations  : 
 The  jingels  in  their  holy  habitations. 
 At  our  converfions  wondrous  foy  receive. 
 What  paffing  foy  will  be  and  delegations, 
 When  all  the  members  to  their  head  fhall  cleave, 
 
 \nd  for  ftiort  forro ws  endlelfe  recom pence  receive. 
 
 14  My  Mufe  her  felf  cv'n  out  of  breath  now  flies» 
 Rais'd  up  fo  high  by  foyjpirituall; 
 Yet  by  foys  objeU:s  (he  muft  higher  rife. 
 To  Father,  Son^  the  holy  Ghojl,  and  all : 
 
 What  greater  foy  then  on  the  Father  call ; 
 And  how  did  Abraham  rejoyce  to  fee  ? 
 The  day  of  his  Redeemers  nuptiall ; 
 Ah  what  more  foy  unfpeakable  can  be  ? 
 Then  feel  the  holy  Sprit  of  Grace  to  dwell  in  thee, 
 
 15  Oh  happy  Hoft,  fuch  guefts  to  entertain. 
 With  pace  of  confcience,  their  continual  feaft. 
 Open  you  everlafting  doors  again,         / 
 Open,  the  King  ftands  knocking  ready  preft ; 
 
 The  King  of  Glory  to  come  in  and  reft  ; 
 Down  from  the  fig-tree  fpeedily  then  come. 
 And  entertain  thy  Saviour  in  thy  breft, 
 To  day  Salvation  is  to  thee  come  home. 
 With  Faith,Hope,Lovey^ni  Truth  perfume  thou  cv'ry  rome. 
 
r88  Ofloj. 
 
 i6  For  without  thefc  true  7^  will  never  flay. 
 With  her  muft  all  the  heavrjly  Graces  bide, 
 Long'ft^jfering,  Mercy,  Peace,  defirc  to  Praj, 
 God  thele  hath  joyr/d,  no  man  may  them  divide, 
 
 Falfe  fujs  without  thefc  into  us  may  Aide, 
 As  ftony  ground  which  did  receive  the  feed; 
 Did  flourifh  fair  and  branch  on  ev'ry  fide ; 
 But  this  did  Faith  but  temporary  breed. 
 
 And  we  this  but  a  moment  any  foj  arced. 
 
 17  There  are  befides  this  friendly  feeming  foy. 
 Other  that  are  profefled  enemies ; 
 
 As  thofe  which  worldly  happinefle  enjoy. 
 And  live  in  plafurcs,  eafe,  and  jollities  : 
 
 Againft  thefe  th'authour  of  true  joy  replies. 
 Wo  unto  you  that  laugh  for  you  (hall  wail, 
 Lament  and  howl  for  your  iniquities, 
 When  Judgement  comes  and  all  mens  hearts  fhall  fai 
 What  then  fhall  all  your  worldly  pleafurcs  you  avail 
 
 18  Another  foy  againft  true  Joy  I  finde. 
 When  in  true  caufe  of  Joy  we  fo  delight. 
 That  we  omit  from  Lufts  to  clenfe  our  minde. 
 And  valiantly  'gainft  bafe  affedions  fight. 
 
 Ah  I  how  can  heavnly  true  Joy  take  delight, 
 Amongft  our  grofTe  corruptions  here  to  dwell^ 
 Sure  this  Ke'joyctng  is  not  good  and  right, 
 A  little  Leven  makes  the  vphole  lumf  fmell, 
 Our  boafting'svain ;  This  water's  not  from  living  Well. 
 
 19  There  is  a  counterfeit  and  feign *d  delight. 
 Shewed  in  the  face,  but  comes  not  from  the  heart. 
 Whom  I  may  call  A  merry  Hypocrite, 
 
 Others  rejoyce  fo  in  their  own  defert. 
 
 In  their  redemption  they  will  bear  a  part : 
 Thefe  are  the  men  whom  works  muft  juftifie  : 
 Alas  /  poor  wretch  1  remember  what  thou  art. 
 And  whence  thou  haft  received  thy  fupply, 
 And  thou  fhalt  foon  from  this  ih^  frond  re  joy  cing  fly.' 
 
 20Proui 
 
Of  foy.  T^ 
 
 o  Proud  fiefh  and  bloud  1  ihac  dares  of  merits  boaft. 
 
 When  in  thy  Makers  prefencc  thou  doft  ftand, 
 
 And  hopeft  to  regain  what  j4dam  loft  .• 
 
 By  thine  irtherent  juft ice  thou  do&:hsindy 
 Dirediy  'gainft  tiiy  Makers  glory ;  and 
 
 Seek'tt  to  rejoycc  in  juftice  of  thine  own, 
 
 Prefumc  not  'bove  thy  ftrength  to  underftand, 
 
 But  merry  be  and  glad  in  God  alone, 
 A^ho  IS  all  worthinejle,  but  in  thy  felf  is  none. 
 
 LI  As  thofe  which  vain  applaufe  of  men  regard, 
 And  at  their  domg  alms  a  trumpet  blow  ; 
 Gain  only  praife  of  men,  for  their  reward. 
 But  God  no  iuch  good  works  will  ever  know  j 
 
 So  thofe  in  whom  thefe  boaftir=g  merits  flow. 
 And  in  their  meritorious  works  delight, 
 God  never  them  doth  this  found  comfort  fhow. 
 They  may  awhile  feem  goodly  in  mans  fight, 
 
 3ut  never  feel  true  inward  foj  and  found  delight. 
 
 12  As  thofe  which  only  fee  the  Stars  and  Moon, 
 But  never  faw  fair  T^hoeht^  glorious  light, 
 Beleeve  no  clearer  lights  have  ever  (hone ; 
 Then  thofe  fair  Lamps  which  do  adorn  the  night : 
 
 So  thofe  that  never  knew  this  true  delight, 
 Thofe  heav'nlj  fijs  to  holy  Saints  cosfin'd. 
 Think  there  moft  fcj  where  fiefh  doth  moft  delight : 
 But  tafte  they  once  fweet  inward  foj  of  minde, 
 
 [n  all  thefe  VpcrlMj  fojs  they  no  content  can  findc. 
 
 23  This  heav'nly  foj  by  no  fimilitude. 
 In  Keav'n  or  Earth  can  truly  be  expreft. 
 Yet  is  fhe  k\t^  as  ofr  m  fimpie  rude. 
 As  in  the  moil  profound  deep  learned  breaft  : 
 None  know  her  till  they  be  of  her  poffeft. 
 For  as  we  feel  thv^  winde  when  it  doth  blow. 
 But  whence  it  comes,  or  where  it  means  to  reft, 
 No  wit  of  man  ere  able  was  to  fhow ; 
 
 So  many  k^l  thefe  foys,  but  know  not  whence  they  How. 
 
 24  As 
 
190  Uf  foy. 
 
 24  As  in  the  IncarHAtions  myfieries. 
 The  bleflcd  Virgin  over-lhadowed 
 By  th' Holy  Ghofi,  and  power  of  the  moft  High  • 
 Perceir'd  her  fruitfull  womb  replcnifhed. 
 
 But  knew  not  whence,  till  i\\*  AngeU  ic  arcad ; 
 So  we  this  Bahe  of  foj  jpirituall^ 
 Oft  feel  in  us  moft  lively  quickned ; 
 But  know  not  how,  nor  whence  the  fame  doth  fall. 
 This  that  fame  Sfirit  of  Truth  to  us  rcvcaleth  all. 
 
 25  And  as  no  creature  able  is,  of  man 
 The  Spirit  to  difcern,  but  man  alone  ; 
 
 So  of  this  Spiritual  foj  no  fpirit  can  , 
 
 Conclude,  but  this  Iweet  fpiritual  holy  One  :  ' 
 
 Some  would  It  liken  to  the  glorious  Sun, 
 Which  by  his  lively  beams  doth  Lifeinfpire; 
 Where  they  an  objed  fit  to  light  upon. 
 But  I  forbear  too  nicely  to  enquire. 
 And  rather  in  mine  heart  to  feel  her  beams  defire. 
 
 26  Oh  Sun  of  Light !  Bright  Glory  of  thy  Sire, 
 
 Who  when  thou  left'ft  the  earth,  thy  Spirit  didft  fend,> 
 Into  our  hearts  fweet  comforts  to  infpire. 
 And  with  us  to  abide  till  worlds  laft  end  : 
 
 Some  good  examples  to  my  Mufe  commend. 
 Of  holy  men,  which  took  fo  much  delight 
 In  heay'nly  Joys  they  holy  them  intend. 
 And  banifh  all  vain  worldly  pleafures  quite. 
 Shining  [ike  gloriottt  Lamps  m  worlds  obfcureft  night, 
 
 27  This  ifiward  heat ,  this  holy  heav'rtlyfire^ 
 Moftwhat  concealed  under  afties  lies, 
 Which  one  till  into  flame^  they  do  refpire. 
 At  home  more  eafic  then  abroad  dcfcries : 
 
 Becaufe  it  felf  within  beft  teftifies; 
 In  Abraham  appeared  this  holy  flame ; 
 Whenas  he  faw  his  Saviour  with  his  eyes 
 Who  of  his  blefled  feed  long  after  came. 
 For  Abram  faw  Chri^s  day,  and  joyed  in  the  fame. 
 
 28  11] 
 
Ofpy^  191 
 
 28  Up  i^/W4;»  up,  thou  merrily  canftfing, 
 Now  through  the  Red  Sea  thou  art  fafely  paft. 
 Hereby  our  Baptifm  then  prefiguring, 
 
 That  when  Repentance  us  with  tears  hath  wafht. 
 With  foj  we  E£ypts  Bondage  off  (hould  caft  ; 
 Bnt  never  did  more  foyfu/l  mufick^found^ 
 Then  Davids :  when  he  of  this  foy  did  tafte, 
 Reft  ore  me  to  thofe  wonted  fojs  I  found. 
 And  ever  let  thy  holy  Spirit  in  me  abound. 
 
 29  Oh  bleffed  Bridegroom  of  the  faireft  Bride, 
 How  often  when  (he  feeketh  thee  by  nigh  c, 
 Doft  thou  thy  Joy  full  prefence  from  her  hide  ? 
 That  wanting,  (he  in  thee  may  more  delight : 
 
 How  oft  again  when  thou  doft  her  invite  > 
 Rife  my  belovM,  and  ope  to  me  the  dore. 
 Such  is  her  nicencfle,  and  her  fluggifti  fpritc  j 
 She  will  not  rife  to  let  thee  in,  before 
 Thou  thence  art  gone  3  And  then  thy  loffe  ihe  doth  deplwc. 
 
 3  o  Thefc  are  the  apples  ^odours, nuts,  and  Wi>#, 
 Which  comfort  her  when  (he  is  fick  of  Love ; 
 Thefc  Chrifts  embraces  chat  do  her  entwine. 
 The  kiSfes  which  he  gives  his  Turtle  Dove  : 
 
 MHk^y  Spice,  TomegranatSi  which  (he  fo  doth  lovc. 
 All  thefe  are  inward  Joys  the  Bride  hath  here. 
 Whereof  (he  with  the  Bridegrooms  friends  doth  prote ;    . 
 And  cats  and  drinks  with  Joy  and  merry  cheer ^ 
 
 Yea  drinks  abundantly  with  her  beloved  deer. 
 
 3 1  This  was  the  Joy  that  him  was  fet  before. 
 That  did  endure  the  Crojfe^  defpifc  the/hame. 
 And  Lord  of  all  became,  low,  naked,  poor. 
 Enduring  death  us  to  cxcufe  from  blame  I 
 His  Martyrs  and  <iApoftles  in  the  fame 
 Suffrings  and  crofTes  him  have  followed ; 
 And  trode  the  pvineprejfe^s  their  order  came. 
 Where  fome  in  fcorching  flames  more  Joys  have  red. 
 
 Then  wearied  Limbs  could  finde  in  fofteft  downy  bed. 
 
 32Thi^ 
 
32  This  *cwas  the  Kingly  Profhet  fo  admir'd. 
 
 When  loathing  all  worlds  pomp  and  glory  vain. 
 
 He  this  one  only  thing  of  God  defir'd. 
 
 For  ever  in  his  Temple  to  remain, 
 
 To  view  the  Beauty  of  that  heav'nlj  train  ; 
 
 This  made  him  leave  his  purple  Crown  afid  Throne, 
 
 And  in  a  linen  Ephoddincc  amain ; 
 
 For  this  would  Conflantine  be  rather  one 
 Of  Chrift  hM  Members  then  ih^Emfires  head  alone. 
 
 3  3  But  why  feek  I  for  witneffes  without,- 
 
 Since  'tis  the  Spirit  within  that  teftifies, 
 
 Our  Soul  that  without  wavering  or  doubt, 
 
 with  Peace  of  Confcience  Abba  Pat  her  cries  : 
 Unto  whofe  Soul  this  Spirit  eke  replies. 
 
 Be  glad  and  joyfull  I  am  thy  falvation ; 
 
 Be  not  afraid.  My  Gr^ce  (hall  thee  fufficc 
 
 To  conquer  Hell^  and  to  relift  temptation. 
 And  yeeld  the  foiindeft  J^g  in  greateft  tribulation. 
 
 34  I  will  make  glad  thy  foul,  delight  thine  heart, 
 And  with  a  chearful  countenance  will  fmile. 
 For  I  am  thtne,  and  mine  again  thou  art ; 
 
 And  though  afflidions  here  thee  fquare  and  file, 
 No  power  in  Earth  or  Hell  (hall  thee  beguile 
 Of  thofe  fweet  ^cys  which  are  for  thee  prepared ; 
 Oh  tarry  thou  my  leafure  but  a  while. 
 And  thy  petitions  all  I  will  regard. 
 Delight  in  me.  I  am  thy  hope  and  juft  reward, 
 
 35  Oh  !  who  can  hear  thefe  Joyous  invitations,- 
 Thefe  blefTed  promifes,  and  yet  complain. 
 That  he's  afraid  of  croffe  or  tribulations  I 
 Oh  !  never  let  thefe  worldly  pleafures  vain. 
 
 Make  me  fo  greac  a  loofer  for  their  gain  ; 
 And  let  me  here  all  worldly  griefs  endure. 
 Lord  only  free  me  from  me  trora  eternal  pain. 
 This  inward  ^oy  (hall  ever  me  a(rure. 
 And  on  thy  merits  I  in  all  will  reft  fecure, 
 
 36  Who 
 
WW'  IPS 
 
 36  who  would  not  rather  covet  there  to  dweli. 
 Where  fniftefe  is  of  foy  for  evermore^ 
 Then  in  falfe  vain  dchghts,  which  leade  to  Hell 
 Voluptuous  Diet,  flatt'rings  of  a  Whore ; 
 
 I  rather  had  with  David  keep  a  dore 
 Where  inward  Joj  may  in  my  foul  abound  ; 
 Then  fwim  in  pleafures  and  preferments  ftore. 
 In  Princes  Courts,  where  vain  delights  arc  founds 
 
 Which  like  fair  flowers  fade,  and  quickly  fall  to  ground. 
 
 3  7  But  I  confeffe  this  proverb  true  I  finde. 
 That  where  Gods  Church  is  raifing,  there  to  build 
 His  Chafpe/lis  the  Devil  moft  inclinM, 
 And  where  beft  ked  is  fown  in  Ground  well  tiird. 
 
 He  with  moft  tares  and  Vi'eeds  k  alwaies  fiU'd  : 
 Fain  fleafures  are  his  tares,  true  fojs  our  ^heat. 
 Till  harveft  both  together  grow  m  field, 
 Then  will  the  Lord  ^Harveft  furely  beat 
 
 The  cockle  from  pure  corn,  at  his  own  board  to  eat. 
 
 38  Fountain  offoj  1  oh  fct  my  whole  delight  1 
 Into  thy  Laws  and  Statutts  to  enquire; 
 
 To  meditate  thereon  both  day  and  night. 
 
 My  foul  then  Gold  doth  more  thefe  Joys  defire. 
 
 Let  others,  honour,  wealth,  and  wme  admii'e  5 
 Lift,  Lord,  on  me  thy  loving  countenance. 
 Thy  loving  favour  fhall  my  Soul  raife  higher. 
 Then  princes  high^ik  favours  can  advance. 
 To  heavenly  fpirituall  Xvealth,  not  fubjed  unto  chance. 
 
 39  In  holy  Writ  I  many  places  (inde. 
 From  whence  do  flow  thefc  fnjsfpirituaH, 
 But  no  where  fafter  then  within  my  minde  : 
 
 Oh  Lord !  Thou  knowft,  not  I,  from  whence  they  fall ; 
 
 God  of  all  Peace  and  foj  perpetually 
 Let  not  my  foj  A  temporarj  prove. 
 But  with  her  in  mine  heart  thy  Graces  all 
 Infufe,F.«/V/;,  A^trcj^Patience^Tcace,  and  Lot^e ; 
 To  pafTc  by  things  below,  and  feek  for  things  above. 
 
 O  "  ^oOf 
 
40  Of  endlcfle  foy  how  fliould  I  make  an  end  ? 
 My  Olft*fi  is  never  weary  of  delight ; 
 Since  I  this  Afeditation  did  intend, 
 I  never  fcarce  could  fleep  by  day  or  night. 
 So  doth  the  pleafing  matter  me  invite ; 
 So  full  the  rimes,  and  fo  the  numbers  run : 
 That  I  in  fhorter  time  have  finifht  quite. 
 This  tafte  of  f  oj,  then  I  have  earft  begun 
 
 Some  other  Graces :  But  my  hower-glafle  hath  done. 
 
 THI 
 
r$5 
 
 THE    BRIDES 
 
 ^    ORNAMENTS. 
 
 The  Fowth  ^00^ 
 
 M  e  D  i  T  A  T.  L 
 
 of  Wffe:dGnPimi  tfudencu 
 
 WE  fl?ft  iiesvee  tKimjidom  is  the  miff^ 
 Of  i^W^;  For  as  "P^iri^f/Zf  the  privaciolti 
 Ti-of  Z/^^r/  Beings  but  no  Being  is, 
 S<>> /(>/^j  is"  o'i  >XiJ€  HtftmMtion  : 
 
 An<f  as'  in  C^^j'i'Ucie-,  at  firft  Creation 
 Th^re  ^2i%Ada¥>kii^fs  by  the  want  6(  light : 
 So  in  ail  men"  before  t^^eir  renovation 
 Are  Follies  mifi^a'nd^eriJOurs'bJuckeii:' night. 
 Till  there  t?hfe  Spirit  m<^t^-  which  all  chiings  doth  intigfij. 
 
 2  The  Poets  whith^  did  wondroufly  ta'sfrtfccnd 
 
 In  making'  Mjft'eri^f  by  Fi^-iom-  plliin , 
 
 All  otherCr^ff/  a? divine  com riitndj 
 
 But  mfedom  chi?y  to  be  dL^G^iUife^fkiii; 
 Minerva^  who  procee<ieth  from  the  brain 
 
 Offupiret' ;  wtiom  they  the  Mififefr  hight 
 
 Of  all  the  Cr^f  a/'  and  the  i^Af/t^  t^ain, 
 
 To  whom  fhe  oft  defcends  for  her  deiight, 
 Wcasi'd  with  toil  o^Govrrnmut  and  mArti^l fight > 
 
 O  2  3  Tto 
 
ip5  Of  Prudence. 
 
 3  Thus  her  of  JVar,  Teace,  Polity,  and  Arts^ 
 They  Goddefe  make,  as  if  they  (heuld  her  call 
 The  jvifedom  God  the  Father  thus  imparts 
 Unto  the  Son,  to  make  rule,  order  all ; 
 
 With  (7orf' the  /"^f^^r  Coeflentiall, 
 As  alibis  Attributes,  Power,  Truth,  and  Lave, 
 For,orl'  the  Perfons  Confuhftantiall, 
 No  accident  can  fall  or  thence  remove. 
 This  Souls  faint  eye  conceives  oimfedom  from  above. 
 
 4  Which  is  unto  my  mindes  obfcurcd  e-^e. 
 As  to  my  Bodies  Sun  in  Firmament, 
 The  farther  off,  the  eafier  to  defcry. 
 
 For  neernefTe  brcedeth  but  aftonirfimcnt : 
 ''    Oh  glorious  wifedom.  Sun  moft  orient ; 
 Into  my  foul  with  Follj  clouded  fhine. 
 Some  clearer  beams  of  wifedom  excellent, 
 I  he  whilft  I  fing  thefe  radiant  rays  of  thine. 
 Which  make  a  mortall  wight  feem  glorioufly  divine. 
 
 5  What  and  how  great  is  wifdomes  heav'nly  skill, 
 *No  heart  of  man  is  able  to  conceive. 
 
 Much  leite  exprcfTc  by  any  tongue  or  quill. 
 For  none  but  wifedom,  Wifedom  can  perceive  : 
 
 The  caufe  unknown  of  nothing  fhe  dothleave^ 
 A  Numen  of  fuch  wondrous  excellence. 
 She  doth  r,o  good  but  from  her  felf  receive ; 
 Being  her  own  end,  aim^  and  recomfence, 
 \<\ogoodm  Heav'n  or  Earth,  but  flow's  from  Sapience, 
 
 6  And  therefore  cal'd  the  proper  Goodoffove, 
 which  though  to  Men  and  Angels  he  difpencc 
 In  wife  proportion,  yet  from  him  doth  move 
 All  wifedom,  and  to  him  hath  reference  j 
 
 For  as  in  Povper  fo  in  Sapience^ 
 He  doth  all  other  heav'nly  Povfers  tranfccnd. 
 For  wifedom  Ground  is  ofomnipotenc^. 
 And  as  we  moT^tals  on  her  hefls  attend, 
 ^0  nearer  to  divine  perfe«!^ion  we  afcend, 
 
 7Suci 
 
of  PrHdence,  197 
 
 Such  is  trne  Wifdomes  glory,  that  ev*n  they 
 Seem  much  to  doubt  who  do  her  moft  admire  • 
 Whither  we  properly  poffefTe  her  may. 
 And  by  continuall  induftry  acquire ; 
 
 Or  that  the  Heav^'ns  her  fecretly  mfpire : 
 In  brief,  no  price  or  gold  can  her  obtain. 
 She  feems  to  be  fome  flame  of  heav*nly  fire 
 In  Adam  breath'd  before  by  FoUy  flain, 
 ^hich  therefore  we  muft  feek  to  have  from  heav'n  again. 
 
 Schools  her  to  be  the  knorvlecige  do  define 
 Of  things  divine  and  humane,  which  in  bread 
 Qi  Mortals,  if  it  pure  and  lively  fhine 
 Makes  him  like  God,  unmov'd  and  ftable  reft  : 
 
 For  as  no  chance  o^ Fortune  can  moleft 
 The  Pow^r  divine.  So  ^ifemen  do  enjoy 
 Within  themfelves,  by  wifedom.  Peace,  and  ReFt-^ 
 Nothing  that  is  without  can  them  annoy, 
 dl  feeming  Miferies  give  place  to  inward  Joy. 
 
 I  Yet  fals  this  fr*y^^ow^  fliort  of  that  Divine, 
 Which  Adam  did  poffefs  before  his  fall : 
 And  as  Sun-beams  through  clouds,  fo  doth  (he  fliinc 
 Through  our  corruptions,  fcarce  difcernM  at  all. 
 
 We  common  and  more  exquifite  her  call ; 
 That  fees  things  that  are  paft,  and  things  in  fight. 
 The  things  which  in  fucceeding  times  may  fall : 
 We  her,  as  (he  guides  mens  afwirs  aright, 
 
 ZkW  Prudence ;  Wifedom,as  the  doth  in  God  delight.] 
 
 o  wifedom zn^ Prudence mz.nh\xm2ir[th^t9i^ 
 
 Are  one  fame  Grace  though  divers  by  relation  : 
 
 fVlfedom  refers  to  God,  Prudence  doth  reft 
 
 Moft  in  a  wife  and  upright  moderation 
 
 O^ States  and  Men  by  Laws  adminift ration  j 
 
 By  wifedom  here  we  fee  the  life  of  Grace, 
 
 Ey  Prudence  In  3,  civil  converfation; 
 
 T^rudence  amongft  the  heathen  had  a  place ; 
 frue  heav'nlj  V^ifedom  only  Gods  eled;  doth  grace. 
 
 O;  s  |i  I  This 
 
1^8  Of  Prudence, 
 
 1 1  This  heavenly  "^ifedom  whereby  wc  c^vcrfc 
 With  God,  m^  take  delight  in  holy  things. 
 Doth  our  aflfe  Aions  all  and  wills  perverfe 
 Set  right,  and  neer  divine  perfedion  brings ; 
 
 She  firft,  like  good  Muiki^n  tunes  the  firings. 
 And  then  fends  forth  a  moft  harmonious  found ; 
 Firft  lifts  our  Souls  to  heav'n  upon  her  wings. 
 Next  orders  all  by  Frndence  on  the  ground, 
 like  Leech  who  ere  he  i&thers  cjurc,  himfelf  makes  found. 
 
 1 2  She  firft  '^'ithin  in  order  fets  the  heart, 
 Next  is  for  ontwari  things  moft  provident. 
 No  Grace  more  Go§d  to  Mortals  doth  impart. 
 Nor  none  more  ev'tU  here  on  earth  prevent  : 
 
 She  (hews  her  inward  Graces  God  hath  lent 
 By  outward  manners,  habit,gr^ve  attire ; 
 Few  words,  pure  hands,  in  all  fuch  eomplemenr. 
 Such  gcfture  publike,  and  in  her  retire. 
 As  all  her  for  a  beav'nly  pattern,  do  admire. 
 
 1 3  But  moft  of  all  a  wifeptan  ftrives  to  tame 
 Both  in  himfelf  and  others  Sin  and  Lyft  : 
 
 For  he  that  Good  froni  llldifcerns,  doth  blame 
 ^alfe  varnifht  fhows  defii'd  with  inward  ruft  : 
 
 He  Pride ^  T^om^,Boaftirig,  Scorn  away  doth  thruft. 
 And  from  a  pure  Serenitj  of  minde 
 A  patern  dr^ws  of  Life  mpft  qijiet,  juft. 
 Far  from  opinions  falfe  and  errour  bliude. 
 And  guides  at  fteun,  as  in  a  calm,  fp  in  the  winde. 
 
 14  In  War  moft  valiant,  in  judgement  juft ; 
 
 III  unto  Good,  things  hurttlili  tijrns  to  found ; 
 Will's  ft  ill  the  fame,  becaufe  the  beft,  no  Guft 
 Of  fate  opprcfTeth  him:  if  Wealth  abound. 
 Or  Poverty,  he  ftill  the  fame  is  found ; 
 And  doth  with  pleafing  ccnfiancj  endure 
 All  Fortunes  changes  which  do  others  wound| 
 Trnc,  innoccnt,(incere,juft,iimpJe,  pure. 
 And  as  his  Zi/r,  his  Bmh  is  joyfull,fweet,  (ecure. 
 
 15  The 
 
1 5  The  Poets  fain  thjtt  in  the  golden  Age, 
 Grave.Vcife,  experienced  men  bare  ^11  the  fway. 
 And  the  unexpertjdung,  not  vet  grown  fage. 
 To  learn  Laws  rules  firft  praais'd  to  obey. 
 
 For  Prndenee  all  by  levell  orders  aye , 
 And  by  a  long  Experience  doth  difcern. 
 How  me  prov  rde  for  future  changes  may. 
 By  precept  and  example  much  we  leirn  ; 
 But  that  imprints  itioft  deep,  which  doth  our  felves  concern. 
 
 1 6  Examples,  Precepts,  and  Experience^ 
 Are  ever  ready  at  a  wifemans  hand. 
 
 To  teach  him  Judgement,  Charity^  Provldencey 
 Of  which  we  alwaies  here  in  need  do  frand  .* 
 
 By  Counfe/lwc  the  Grounds  do  underftand 
 Of  things  we  ought  to  do  or  kstve  undone  : 
 judgement  our  wills  and  Se'^,fes  doth  command,  . 
 What  things  We  ought  embrace,  and  what  to  (hun. 
 And  Providence  provides  for  thmgs  that  are  to  come. 
 
 1 7  I  praife  not  here  that  cunning  Polity, 
 Which  maketh  of  anothers  Folly,  gain ; 
 This  comes  of  Malice,  Guile,  and  Subtkty, 
 Which  generous  brave  Prudence  doth  difdain  : 
 
 Such  alwaies  evil  counfell  entertain. 
 The  Apes  ofT^rudence,  Reafons  depravation, 
 Whofe  rrnndes  (as  hands  grow  hard  by  caking  pain) 
 Are  by  bafe  plots  and  fubtle  imagination 
 Inured  unto  others  wrongs  and  fuppiantation. 
 
 1 8  As  Quickneffe  wit,  As  Soundnejfe  mQmor;\ 
 Grave  leeks  the  face,  and  Plainnejfe  Jpeech  commend ; 
 So  Judgements  praife  is  in  Equality, 
 
 Without  leaft  doing  wrong  to  Foe  or  Friend  ; 
 And  as  fait  favours,  fo  doth  Judgement  bend 
 
 Ev*n  all  our  "^'oMs,  thoughts,  W^orks,  to  good  or  ill ; 
 
 Without  this  Judgement,  Prudence  doth  intend 
 
 Nothing ;  for  (^e  is  A^'islrife  of  her  jvi/l. 
 Which  Ihe  with  all  her  power  labours  to  fullfi!!. 
 I  O  4  ioCoun!'ell 
 
200  Of  Prudence. 
 
 19  ComfeIUx\i  judgement  are  the  very  eyes 
 
 And  Larnfs  here  to  dired  a  prudent  mindc  j 
 
 Wriitb  chey  v/ho  want  or  fooiifhJy  mifprife, 
 
 W£^^  <^n  in  /o//;  and  in  Errour  blmde  : 
 We  nfiany  ignorant  -z/^^if^  J^o^/j  do  finde. 
 
 So  wife  in  their  conceit  and  eftivoation ; 
 
 They  think  all  ^Ifedom  in  their  breafts  confin'd, 
 
 Thefe  being  bound  by  double  oblgation 
 To  Folly,  there's  no  hope  of  any  reformation. 
 
 20  Prudence  and  Fctlj  in  the  Soul  of  man. 
 
 Like  Health  and  Skknejfe  in  his  Body  are ; 
 
 As  Health  the  Body  keeps,  fo  Prudence  can 
 
 The  Soul  deliver  from  the  devils  fnare  : 
 And  as  ^ifeafes  here  the  thread  doth  (hare 
 
 O^ 'Bodies  Life ;  So  Folly  foon  doth  rend 
 
 The  Soul  with  pleafures  vain  and  worldlj  care  : 
 
 For  as  ftrong  men  within  a  Fort  defend ; 
 So  Prudent  Thoughts  our  fouls  from  Satans  fury  (bend, 
 
 2  i    And  as  among  the  nohk  fenfis  five. 
 The  Sight  doth  all  the  reft  in  worth  excel), 
 Becauie  ail  do  their  Light  from  her  derive. 
 And  (lie  all  that  offends  them  doth  repell : 
 So  Frudencc  all  the  vertues  doth  precell ; 
 B  :caule  by  Light  God  fends  her  from  above, 
 She  counfels  all  the  Graces  to  do  well ; 
 tor  without  her  no  Grace  aright  can  move 
 Prudence^  ^\\  the  reft  the  Governonr  doth  prove. 
 
 22  t;/jj(r<?-f  Pi*u4ence,  >^;4a;  Fortitude ; 
 WhiUt  they  Cc^ch  other  do  accompany 
 Win  Cities,  c(|)nquer  men,  and  Monfters  rude : 
 But  if  they  fqviare  for  Gain  or  Dignity, 
 
 And  ^/^^leaves  Vljffes  company. 
 His  valour  tiirns  to  Folly  or  to  Rage ; 
 So  men  of  greateft  magnanimitj^ 
 When  they  iht^Guidance  leave  0^ Prudence  fage, 
 C  row  beaftlj,  mad,  or  foolijh  in  their  later  age. 
 
 21 
 
uj  frnaence.  ioi 
 
 23  I  may  ber  liken  to  the  Prince  of  Day, 
 
 From  whom  all  lefTer  Lamp  do  borrow  Light; 
 Who  when  he  doth  his  glorious  Beams  difplay. 
 The  reft  all  feem  to  be  extinguilht  quite  : 
 
 So  whenas /(7f^t/';;/y  fri/^fifo7»  wondrous  bright, 
 Her  felf  amongft  the  Graces  doth  difclofe. 
 They  all  do  feem  to  vanifli  in  her  fight. 
 As  all  the  Glory  that  they  have  arofe  (  pofc. 
 
 From  thofe  bright  Beams,  which  tvifdome  doth  on  ijiem  dif- 
 
 24  As  God  the  Tvorld^  the  Smferour  his  kofly 
 The  GovernoHr  bis  Shi^^  the  Sun  the  day. 
 And  as  the  Bodfs  ruled  by  the  Ghoft, 
 
 So  doth  fair  Prudence  all  the  vertues  fway  ; 
 
 And  as  thefe,  like  good  Guides,  dired  the  way 
 Unto  their  charge,  to  reach  their  proper  end  : 
 So  doth  true  ^tfedom  all  that  her  obey 
 To  endieffe  happineffe  and  pleafure  fend ; 
 Moft  happy  man  who  doth  her  holy  hefts  attend. 
 
 25  May  his  heart  6iit  like  Nahals  churl  and  fool. 
 Or  like  AchitopheUnd  with  a  ftring ; 
 
 Laugh  in  the  ftocks,  cleave  to  the  (corners  ftool. 
 That  liftens  not  to  heavenly  counfeliing 
 
 OffVifedom  and  her  fweet  adraonifhing: 
 She  hath  provided  viB uals, pour' d  out  Vciney 
 Sent  out  her  Maids  us  to  the  feafi  to  bring, 
 To  bid  thofe  that  feek  Knowledge  come  and  dine : 
 And  thofe  that  Prudence  want  to  tafte  her  grapes  divine. 
 
 26  For  (he's  the  Vine  whofe  grapes  yeeld  plcafing  fmell,     ] 
 Whofe  Fruit  and  Flowers, wealth, LifeMonour  are ; 
 
 The  Garden  where  Chrift  dearefl  Spoufe  doth  dwell, 
 Planted  with  all  the  Berhs  and  Spices  rare. 
 
 Which  to  adorn  his  Church  he  doth  prepare : 
 Would  thou  one  word  which  fhould  her  worth  contain  ^ 
 Fie  hath  true  wife  dam  who  the  Lord  doth  fear. 
 And  who  knows  holy  things  doth  entertaia 
 Right  mderfianding,  without  this  the  reft  arc  vain.' 
 
 27  She 
 
202  vj  rruaence. 
 
 ij  She  as  the  Princi  or  Gemrall  doth  guide 
 All  other  Graces  in  Lover  facred  band. 
 Doth  order,  marfhalJ,  and  for  them  provide. 
 As  ih'Eje,  which  all  the  members  doth  command  ; 
 
 The  Govemours  of  Men,  of  Cities,  and 
 Of  Families,  and  each  mans  private  ftate, 
 She  orders  wifely  by  her  ^rttdent  hand. 
 And  thev  that  duely  on  Difcretion  wait, 
 
 Command  the  Stars,  and  rule  ev'n  over  Tims  and  fate. 
 
 28  As  (hadows  more  diredly  oppofite 
 
 To  Suns  bright  Rajs^  feem  fhort  by  being  near. 
 When  thofe  which  are  much  farther  from  the  light. 
 More  goodly  fair  and  long  by  far  appear  : 
 
 So  who  fmall  Knowledge  iiavc  attained  here. 
 Thereof  do  alway's  make  a  greater  (how 
 Then  thofe  whofe  undcrfianding  (hining  clear. 
 Do  all  the  Paths  of  heav'yily  wifedom  know. 
 For  with  true  wrfedom  alwaics  Humhleneffe  doth  grow. 
 
 29  And  as  Goc?:  wifedom  doth  no  lefler  feem 
 Infmalhfi  creatures,  as  a  Gnat^yt  Fly, 
 Then  Greater*,  fo  we  oufjht  no  lefTe  efteem 
 wife-men  in  \q>^^'  degree  thei^  dignity  : 
 
 The  i';?^//a  mirrour  is  o'iFclity, 
 yVho  wich  her  horns  kv^eps  alwaies  fentinell, 
 And  never  conu'ch  cut  bt-fore  ftie  try. 
 If  th.ngs  Without  be  all  in  Peace  and  ^f^^\ 
 Elfe  -(Vie,  retiring  h-ome,  lives- quiet  in  her  fht^Il. 
 
 3  c  Oh  fons  of  men  that  you  could  but  behold 
 "    Th«  wondrou'j  Be^tmj  of"  this  heav'nly  Fectr  j 
 But  nought  on  earth  her  "Bennxyc^si  unfold. 
 Her  G  lory  ia  the  Heav'ns  doth  Ihine  moft  clear ; 
 !n  ail  Gods  works-  her  iplendbur  doth  appea-r, 
 Slie  hrft  from  Heav'n  vo'dthiafcjd  to  defcend 
 To  live  in  J^^y^^rfA  with  her  chofehdear  : 
 But  nov/  htT  BeAim  more  ample  do  extend, 
 1  o  all  theNsMons^of  tiie  earth  (he  light  doth  lend. 
 
 3 1  She 
 
VJ  I'rMdenct.  ~   205 
 
 31  She  taii^t  DBT /rfr^f  J' thai  wasiTiiulc  alone. 
 
 To  raife  himfelf  toClory  from  hisfall ; 
 
 But  Envy  turn'd  from  her  his  foolifti  Ton, 
 
 And  made  by  Fratricide  and  Fnrj  fall : 
 Lo  when  the  Floud  th€  world  deftroyed  all. 
 
 She  it  pref^ves  by  one  icvife  work  offVood : 
 
 The  dead  Sea  yec  is  the  memoriall 
 
 Of  foolilh  Cities  five  which  there  erft  ftood. 
 Where  (he  iavM  Lot  from  fire,  as  Noah  from  the  floud. 
 
 3  z  To  tell  what  wonders  have  been  by  her  wrought. 
 Were  too  too  long  for  this  (hort  meditation ; 
 They  in  Gods  Book  arc  ealily  found,  if  fought. 
 For  there  indeed  is  jvifedoms  commendation ; 
 Where  (he  us  deth  with  wary  oblervation. 
 Unto  the  Cofij  and  the  Pifmire  fend. 
 To  learn  to  get  our  food  and  habitation, 
 Whofe  meaner  Wifedom  if  we  muft  attend. 
 
 Much  more  wife  Heathens  fayings  moft  divinely  penM, 
 
 3  3   One  being  ?sked,  who  was  moft  wife,  repli'd 
 He  that  finM  leaf: ;  when  one  of  them  defir'd 
 To  learn  who  was  for  youth  the  truftieft  Guide  ; 
 He  anfwer'd,  Prndence :  And  in's  fon  required 
 
 Only  three  things,  which  he  injouth  admir'd  ; 
 In  his  tongue  ftlence,  Trudence  in  his  minde ; 
 Shamefajt»ejfe  in  his  Face ;   when  one  required 
 How  he  the  greateft  in  the  leaft  might  finde ; 
 
 He  anfwer*d,  prudent  thoughts  in  humane  breaft  confin'd. 
 
 3  4  This  was  an  Ethnick :  Bat  how  doth  (he  (hinc. 
 
 When  (he  is  joyn'd  with  pure  ftmflicitj  i 
 
 Whenas  that  holj  mfdom  ferpentine, 
 
 Comtines  with  dove-like  true fwceritj : 
 Oh  thus  the  Saints  by  holy  (ubtlety. 
 
 Walk  fafe  amongft  worlds  crooked  generation ; 
 
 Thus  walk'd  our  Saviour  in  Humility, 
 
 And  though  the  wicked  plot  his  condemnation. 
 Yet  never  could  they  touch  him  but  by  fubornation. 
 
 3SOh 
 
2^-*  vj  rrHOCHce. 
 
 3  5  Oh  how  (hould  we  that  have  this  mirroar  bright. 
 This  Sun  of  wifedom,  labour  here  to  (hine 
 Like  Stars,  which  from  the  Sun  receive  their  light. 
 And  10 fineeritj  true  coUmbine, 
 
 Joyn  this  wife  holy  Prudence  ferpentine ; 
 Us  to  condud  through  this  worlds  wildenefTe,' 
 And  a  moft  fafe  and  perfed  way  our-  line 
 Through  fordans  waves  to  Land  of  Happinefe, 
 
 Where  Manfions  ready  built  we  ftiall  for  ay  pofleffe. 
 
 36  And /^/;/^jWj' planted,  whence  the  C^;;^«/V^, 
 For  wicked  Treafon  'gainft  his  Majefiy, 
 
 God  hath  expelM  to  HelUnd  darkeit  night. 
 Proud  Lucifer  and  all  his  company  : 
 
 Oh  why  (houidft  thou  advance  bafe  duft  fo  high  I 
 Whofe  earthly  manfion  keeps  his  fpirit  low. 
 And  will  not  let  his  underfianding  flie 
 To  fee  what  goodly  clufiers  there  do  grow. 
 In  heav*nly  Canaan  where  UHiil^tnd  Honj  flow. 
 
 37  We  hardly  here  of  things  below  difcern. 
 And  with  great  pains  what  is  before  us  finde ; 
 Ah  how  (hall  we  then  able  be  to  learn 
 
 Thy  wifedom  which  no  limits  have  confined  : 
 
 Thy  Spirit  only  can  into  our  minde 
 Thefe  hidden  myfteries  in  Chrill:  reveal. 
 In  which  the  Pnnces  of  the  world  were  blinde ; 
 For  from  man  nacurall  thou  doft  conceal 
 This  fvifedom  Jpiritua/l  which  thou  to  thine  doft  deal. 
 
 38  For  as  none  knows  the  Spirit  of  a  man. 
 But  that  fame  Spirit  that  within  doth  dwell , 
 So  nothing  apprehend  this  wifedom  can 
 But  that  wife  Spirit  that  all  Truth  doth  fell : 
 
 Oh  facred  Spirit  of  Truth  i  my  heart  compell 
 This  ho/j  Sapience  to  entertain. 
 Thou  only  giv'ft  to  drink  ofwifedoms  Well ; 
 Mans  wifedom's  wickedneife,  his  thoughts  are  vain. 
 His  knowledge  is  but  errour,  and  his  pleafurc  pain. 
 
 .    3pThou 
 
OfPrmenct.         ^  205 
 
 Sp  Thou  didft  create  ev'n  all  things  by  thy  fvord. 
 
 And  by  thy  hcav'nly  wifedom  didft  ordaia 
 
 Man  of  thy  handy-works  to  be  the  Lord, 
 
 That  he  in  Trnth  and  Et^nity  might  reign. 
 And  with  an  upright  heart  the  right  maintain  : 
 
 Gh  therefore  down  thine  heavenly  wifedom  fend. 
 
 Me  in  all  Truth  2ind  V fright ne^e  to  train. 
 
 She  fhall  my  words  and  works  to  thee  commend, 
 And  bring  my  fmall  beginnings  to  a  perfeft  end. 
 
 40  Andhere  with*Pr^i/f  andPr^/Vrlwillend,  ^ 
 
 Oh  who  aright  can  know  or  underftand. 
 Except  thou  ivifedom  from  thy  Throne  doft  fend. 
 To  give  unco  him  what  thou  doft  command: 
 
 Then  grant  me  ivifedcm  alwaies  to  withftand 
 Hells  fubcle  PlotSy  and  iVorlds  bafe  hUndimentSy 
 Let  facrcd  Prudence  ever  be  at  hand. 
 Still  to  dired  my  \^ords,  aEis,  and  intents. 
 
 To  yeeld  Obedience  to  thy  Commandcments. 
 
 MED  I- 
 
JC6 
 
 Meditat.    II^ 
 
 ./>;..  of  obedience. 
 
 ^Hehiicftth' Almighty  by  his  only  Word, 
 Had  faOifon'd  all  within  the  Firmamcnc  : 
 He  made  Mao  laft  to  be  their  King  and  Lord, 
 That  he  to  him  might  be  obedient  : 
 Bat  Main  not  with  this  Monarchy  content, 
 Denide  bis  homage  to  omnipotence ; 
 And  having  but  one  froall  comraandemenf, 
 Tranfgrefled  Lth^^  E>ifobcdience : 
 The  eafier  the  comnrmdi,  the  greater  tbe  offence. 
 
 2  This  all  :iie  Sons  ly'i  ciAdam  do  derive 
 From  hmi,  and  call  it  guilt  Original), 
 Which  by  the  Eccrnall  Law  did  us  deprive 
 Of  all  Gods  Benefits,  and  did  enthrall 
 
 To  cndleiTe  Bondage,  tiJiCbriii-  for  this  FaH, 
 The  price  of  his  moft  precious  bloud  did  pay. 
 Which  us  recovers  from  Sins  aEluall, 
 And  by  obeying  Gods  whole  Law  doth  ftay 
 His  wrath.  And  merits  Heav'n  for  all  that  him  obey. 
 
 3  For  as  by  firft  mans  difobedience 
 On  all  men  cometh  Death  and  Condemnation  ; 
 So  by  the  feconds  true  obedience. 
 We  have  etcrnall  Life  and  fure  Salvation  :  j 
 
 Thus  difobedience  by  derivation 
 Prom  v^<^^w  bringeth  endlefle  wretchednefTe, 
 And  true  Obedience  by  imputation 
 Convays  from  Chrift  eternall  Happineffe ; 
 So  bv  the  firft  comes //«,  by  lecond  Ri^hteonfnefs. 
 
 4Thc' 
 
Of  Obcdtejfce.  2QJ 
 
 4  The  glorious  robe  of  perfed  JRightgo^fiujff, 
 Which  they  that  are  obedient  only  wear. 
 To  cover  that  foul  (hame  and  wickedneffe, 
 Which  Adams  difobedience  layed  bare : 
 
 Ah  !  lee  a  difobedient  finner  dare, 
 The  aid  of  the  Obedient  Lamb  defire, 
 My  Will  and  Adions,  Tongue  and  Heart  to  fquare. 
 In  due  proportion  to  his  heav'nly  fquire, 
 Whilft  I  of  true  Obedience  praifes  do  enquire. 
 
 5  Dcvouteft  Xi^^  I  Handmaid  to  the  ^g«ff» 
 Of  heav'nly  Love,  And  fo  in  duty  bound. 
 That  Ihe's  alwaies  preft  and  ready  feen^ 
 To  do  what  thing  foever  fhe  propound : 
 
 Her  heart,  words,  will  and  deeds  all  one  arc  found. 
 Serving  for  Love  and  not  for  fear  or  gain. 
 No  Subjed  merits  better  to  be  crown'd; 
 For  who  can  beft  obey,  he  beft  can  raign. 
 And  fhe  is  ihoitly  fure  eternall  Crowns  to  gain. 
 
 If  I  may  fquare  Her  by  the  Rule5»  of  Art, 
 I  her  define  to  be  our  wijs  fubjeftion 
 To  Him  that  ought  to  rule  both  will  and  heart, 
 And  by  hi?  will  diipofe  our  beft  affedion  : 
 
 The  rule  of  Reafon  may  be  our  diredion^ 
 How  our  Su periours  Statutes  wc  obey ; 
 But  when  the  Lord  commands,  there's  no  eledion 
 Nor  doubting  what  we  ought  to  do  or  fay, 
 Gods  will's  the  rule  of  Right  which  none  may  difdey. 
 
 Here  in  two  Branches  I  might  her  divide. 
 obedience  fir  ft  to  God,  and  liecundly 
 To  our  Superiours  that  on  earth  abide. 
 But  all  is  but  to  one  Authority  : 
 
 For  there's  no  power  or  precedency. 
 But  that  which  higheft  power  doth  ordain'; 
 Who  therefore  doth  refift  mans  S^veraignty 
 Gods  ordinance  refiftctb,  and  agf|n 
 /Vho  duely  it  obeys,  Gods  Statute? ifeth  maintain. 
 ^^t  ^  SThiis 
 
2C€  of  obedience. 
 
 %  Thus  muft  our  hearts,  ears,  hands,  be  alj  attenc 
 His  Word  and  WiH  in  all  things  to  obey, 
 Who  over  us  hath  lawful  Regiment, 
 Which  is  one  God,  eternall,  bleft  for  aye ; 
 
 Whofe  fervants  all  we  are.  And  therefore  may 
 Not  chufe  a  Lord  or  Mafter  whom  we  will. 
 Nor  fcrve  two  Mafters,  left  we  difobey 
 The  one,  when  wc  the  others  minde  fullfill. 
 
 For  that  which  pleafeth  one  doth  crofTe  the  others  will< 
 
 9  Thus  our  Obedience  is  only  due 
 
 To  him  that  all  did  for  his  fervice  make ; 
 And  *tis  a  firm  poiition  found  and  true ; 
 God  only  for  himfelf ;  But  for  his  fake 
 
 All  that  from  him  authority  do  take 
 We  truly  and  lincerely  ought  obey : 
 Or  t\{t  our  bounden  duty  we  for  fake, 
 As  thofe  which  do  their  Princes  difobey. 
 
 When  they  their  lawfull  Officers  commands  gainfay* 
 
 I  Of  For  this  whole  world  is  like  a  family. 
 
 In  all  things  well  and  juftiy  ordered ; 
 Where  God  hath  the  fupream  authority, 
 Aud  Rfitlers  theirs  from  him  delivered, 
 
 By  which  they  do  command  as  in  his  ftead ; 
 Who  then  to  them  are  difobedient. 
 They  may  be  faid  to  difobey  the  Head  : 
 For  whilft  they  rightly  ufe  their  government. 
 We  ought  them  to  obej  in  things  indifferent. 
 
 I I  Indeed  all  ought  regard  the  Supreme  Will^ 
 As  firft  commanding  caufc  and  end  of  all ; 
 Which  all  that  Being  have,  ought  to  fullfill. 
 From  which  as  all  things  rife  fo  all  muft  fall ; 
 
 Here  therefore  firft  we  into  minde  will  calf. 
 To  whom  that  will  commands  us  to  obey, 
 For  in  obeying  their  commands  we  fhall 
 Obey  that  Supreme  Will  -  This  is  the  way 
 To  mnkc  Gcds  mllxht  r aufe  of  all  wc  do  or  fav. 
 
 12  T< 
 
Of  Obedience,  iop 
 
 J2  To  him ;  we  muft  be  fubjed,  firft  of  all. 
 To  whom  all  Power  in  Hcav'n  and  Earih  is  lent  \ 
 The  Son  of  God  begotten ^  naturM, 
 Next  to  his  Minifters  which  he  hath  fent : 
 
 Apofiles^  ^afiorsy  ^oUors,  here  are  meant ; 
 Which  by  his  Word  do  leach  their  Mafters  Will, 
 And  rule  his  Church  by  godly  Government, 
 And  thofe  which  hear  thefe  hu  commands  fullfill. 
 
 And  thofe  which  them  dejpife  dejpifi  his  heavenly  Will. 
 
 1 3  As  Kings  which  with  great  Honour  do  convay 
 Princes  AmbafTadours,  it  do  intend 
 
 Unto  their  Lords,  So  we  our  Lord  ohj 
 When  we  (?%  the  Zf^^f/ he  doth  fend : 
 
 The  fecoiid  Power  is  that  which  God  doth  lend 
 To  Kings  and  Princes,  for  to  delegate 
 fudges  to  punifh  thofe  which  do  offend. 
 And  to  maintain  the  Life,  Peace,  and  eftatc 
 Of  ev'ry  member  that  maintains  tbeBodies  ftate ; 
 
 14  To  this  all  Subjects  owe  (9 M/f»rf ; 
 The  third  Obedience  is  which  wife  doth  owe 
 Unto  her  Head,  who  due  Benevolence 
 For  duty  ought  umto  his  Wife  to  (how  : 
 
 For  as  the  Church  fo  ought  the  Wife  to  know 
 Her  due  Subjedion  unto  her  Head, 
 And  as  our  Chrifi  direds  his  Church  below  j  ^ 
 So  Wives  muft  be  by  husbands  ordered. 
 But  this  of  wives  is  better  known  then  pradifcdi 
 
 1 5  So  is  th' obedience  which  Children  owe 
 Unto  their  Parents,  by  Commandement 
 And  promife,  they  (hall  long  and  good  daics  know. 
 If  they  to  them  will  be  obedient. 
 
 The  fifth  and  laft  is  Mafters  Government, 
 And  Servants  Duty  which  they  (hould  them  bcar^ 
 Which  ought  to  be  with  fingle  true  intent. 
 Not  for  cye-fervice,  wages,  or  for  fear ; 
 t  as  they  would  obey  cv'n  Chrift  their  Matter  dear.; ,   :. 
 
 P  J<5Thuir, 
 
,2lO  of  obedience. 
 
 1 6  Thus  onghi  we  to  obey  thefe  five  degrees 
 Set  over  us :  Becaufe  wc  fo  obey 
 The  higheft  Power,  And  if  their  juft  decrees 
 We  flight,  that  higheft  power  wc  difobey ; 
 
 Far  wide  then  difobedient^jm^  ftray. 
 Which  by  Religion  would  all  reverence 
 Exclude,  due  unto  Magifiratesy  and  fay 
 They  unto  no  man  owe  obedience, 
 
 A  falfe  excufe  ofSchifme  and  all  unrcvercncc. 
 
 Ij  Ohedlence  preferveth  Vnitj, 
 And  helpcth  to  this  great  worlds  confcrvation. 
 As  Heav*ns  and  Earth  do  by  due  Obfequy 
 Obey  their  glorious  Makers  Ordination ; 
 
 Behold  how  all  things  in  this  worlds  Creation, 
 Do  by  their  Makers  order  ftand  or  move ; 
 Earth  keeps  her  center  for  mans  prefervation. 
 The  Heavns  turn  all  in  motion  round  above. 
 
 Without  obedience  one  would  out  another  (hove. 
 
 1 8  And  thus  we  may  Obedience  obfervc. 
 
 To  hold  our  members  in  due  motion  aye, 
 
 Whilft  one  doth  to  another  member  fcrve. 
 
 And  all  unto  the  Sfirit  do  obey. 
 The  Soul  of  man,  which  doth  by  reafonfway 
 
 Ev*n  all  the  members  to  their  prefervation. 
 
 And  if  the  leaii  of  thtm  do  difobay. 
 
 She  cither  feeks  their  better  reformation. 
 Or  one  endangers  all  to  cadlefTe  condemnadon, 
 
 J 9  For  whilft  man  here  dotli  on  the  earth  remain. 
 Sin  and  corruption  in  his  Body  dwed : 
 Secidng  thev  via  as  Lord  and  King  to  reign. 
 But  Grace  doth  ft  rive  by  force  them  to  expell : 
 
 If  bondjlaves  we  our  lelves  to  Sin  do  fell. 
 And  give  our  members  here  Lufts  to  obay, 
 Wc  y ecld  unto  fuch  Lufts  as  leade  to  Hell ; 
 But  if  that  Grace  our  Scui  aright  doth  fway, 
 
 "hen  all  the  members  follow  her  the  narrow  way, 
 
 ^loReraoi 
 
of  obedience.  aij 
 
 ;j20  Remove  this  Vertue  of  obedience 
 
 From  Soul  or  Body,  Subjed,  City,  Town, 
 
 Or  from  the  Creatures  wanting  life  and  i^ak^ 
 
 And  all  unco  Confufion  tumble  down  : 
 
 ;  The  Tower  of  lifJi^el  might  to  Heav'n  have  grown. 
 
 Had  all  obey'd  with  mutuail  4il?gence : 
 
 Bur  fuddcnly  We  fee  it  overthrown. 
 
 When  to  ebej  they  want  intelligence. 
 For  without  under jianding  no  Obedience. 
 
 21   As  to  mainttain  Head'ns  perfed  unity. 
 
 All  to  on^ffipream  Trinity  obey  ; 
 
 So  all  that  have  with  it  Affinity, 
 
 Subjed  themfelves  to  that  one  God  for  aye  j 
 j        No  wonder  if  thofc  that  him  difohaj, 
 I    To  many  Errmrs,  Schifmes^  and  SeHis  do  fall^ 
 i   For  one  true  Vnitj  they  do  gainfay. 
 
 When  they  refift  his  Ordinances  (ball, 
 \nd  difobej  Gods  Word  that  here  dirdeth  all. 
 
 \Z  Me  thinks  my  Mufe  could  here  her  felf  tranfcend. 
 
 By  mufing  of  i\iobedie?tce  above. 
 
 Which  from  the  Son  to  Father  doth  afcend. 
 
 And  ^Angels  who  obeying  Fear  and  Love. 
 Alas  what  can  th'ecernall  power  move ! 
 
 obedience  of  p©or  wretches  to  require. 
 
 But  us  to j'oyn  to  Chrifi^  oiir  Head  in  Xo^'#, 
 
 As  he  is  joynd  to  God  in  due  dciire. 
 Into  no  other  end  Obedience  doth  afpire. 
 
 For  as  when  in  a  ivilde  and  fruitlcfle  ftock 
 We  do  fome  noble  irape  inoculate ; 
 The  fruit  crft  bafe  and  wilde;lke  to  the  Block^ 
 Is  made  as  goo;  ;iy,  fair,  and  delicate 
 
 As  Tree  which  firft  this  imp  did  generate ; 
 So  the  leaft  imp  ofChrifis  obedience. 
 In  us  ingraft,  doth  us  regenerate ; 
 And  make  us  bear  fruit  of  like  excellence. 
 Is  lively  tree  from  which  it  firft  had  influence. 
 
2  12  of  obedience 
 
 24  For  all  chat  from  ftock  of  firft  nAdam  come, 
 Dear  thofe  fowr  fruits  of  Difcbedience -^ 
 But  all  that  do  ingraft  again  become 
 In  fecond  Ad^ims  true  obedience^ 
 
 Bring  forth  fweet  fruits  like  lively  tree,  from  whence 
 They  have  received  firft  their  fap  to  fpring ; 
 Sweet  living  Vine  !  whofc  facred  influence. 
 Us  makes  obedient.to  our  Lord  and  King, 
 Ah  !  who  the  praifes  of  thy  noble  fruit  can  fing  > 
 
 25  It  did  advance  that  holy  Prophets  quill, 
 when  He  in  volume  of  the  ^ool^A  finde. 
 Written  that  thou  (houidft  Gods  whole  Law  fuUfill, 
 Whereto  thou  wert  with  all  thine  heart  inclined ; 
 
 And  when  the  time  was  come  thereto  ailign'd, 
 Thou  wert  obedient  to  all  Gods  will. 
 Performing  it  with  all  thine  heart  and  minde, 
 Ev'n  till  the  fews  thee  on  the  Crojfe  did  kill. 
 When  thou  refiitedft  not  though  they  thy  bloud  did  fpill, 
 
 26  obedient  Lamb  \  this  was  the  facrifice^ 
 The  offering  God  did  for  fin  require ; 
 Thus  we  muft  offer  up  to  God,  likewife 
 Our  Souls  and  Bodies  with  like  <.ealom  fire 
 
 To  die,  if  not  in  deed  yet  in  defire  : 
 Quick,  holy,  acceptable  Offeeing, 
 To  pacifie  Gods  Jnftice  and  his  ire. 
 Is  when  to  him  obedient  heartswc  bring 
 And  crucifie  thofe  Lufts  which  from  our  Flefli  do  fpring. 
 
 27  As  from  the  boundlefle  Ocean  do  run 
 All  ftreams  which  doe  return  into  the  Main, 
 So  from  one  patern  of  Obedience  come 
 All  ours,  and  thither  doth  return  again  ; 
 
 The  Larnb  that  was  from  worlds  beginning  (lain 
 Gave  the  firft  blow  to  Difobedience, 
 Which  Jfaac  imita^tes  when  he  is  lain,  '  B 
 
 On  Altar  to  be  facrificed  thence, 
 V\' ho m  truly  Abram  0 ffer 'd  by  Obedience.  ji 
 
 2811 
 
of  obedience,  215 
 
 This  was  that  quiet  favour  God  did  fmell. 
 When  offring  one  of  each  clean  bird  and  bead-. 
 The  good  old  Noah  pleasM  the  Lord  fo  well  -, 
 obedience  was  the  Scafoning  to  the  feaft  : 
 
 What  made  the  Lords a^ds  facrifice  detefl  } 
 But  that  he  did  his  Word  then  difobey. 
 When  he  did  Tpare  ofAma/ec  the  bell. 
 To  offer  up ;  But  therein  did  obay 
 5  own  corrupt  inventions,  not  what  God  did  fay. 
 
 Better  then  Sacrifice  is  to  obay, 
 And  then  the  fat  of  Earns  to  give  good  ear, 
 Happy  though  we  do  all  the  world  gainfay. 
 If  we  obay  our  Lord  and  Mafter  dear  : 
 
 But  ah  1  whilft  we  remain  as  Pilgrims  here, 
 Flelh,  World,  and  Devil  daity  us  perlwade 
 To  follow  Pleafures  vain,  and  to  forbear 
 obedience  to  the  Lord  which  us  hath  made, 
 hofe  Statutes  to  obey  (hould  be  our  only  trade. 
 
 Oh  Sacrifice  of  Fools !  with  tongue  to  pray, 
 But  harbour  no  obedience  in  thine  heart ; 
 Who  doft  in  word  profefTe  God  to  obey, 
 But  by  thy  works  doft  all  his  Laws  pervert  ; 
 
 Behold  I  it  is  not  without  juft  defert 
 That  Beafts  to  thee  are  difobedicnt. 
 When  thou  to  God  a  faithleffe  rebel  1  art. 
 To  whom  obey  Sun,  Moon,  Stars,  Firmament, 
 )r  Sea  againft  his  will  invades  the  Co-atinent. 
 
 Whilft  I  about  this  finfnll  Body  bear, 
 Lufts  and  corruptions  will  therein  remain  ; 
 Yet  never  let  them  fo  much  domineer 
 As  here  o^ Grace  the  mafter y  to  gain : 
 
 For  if  I  fuffer  Sinnc  in  me  to  reign. 
 That  all  my  members  will  to  finne  obey. 
 That  fin  whereof  Saint  Paul  doth,  fo  coaiplain, 
 Oh  /  who  me  from  the  fame  deliver  may  > 
 s  not  I  but  fin  that  Chrift  dodi  difobey. 
 
 P  X  a?  Tf 
 
32  If  that  the  Judge  by  his  Authority, 
 Injoyn  me  to  perform  or  fpeak  a  thing, 
 Againft  the  will  of  Soveraign  Majefty, 
 Here  my  Demaii  no  OHence  doth  bring ; 
 
 And  if  I  be  commanaed  by  the  King, 
 To  do  againft  his  will  than  is  above, 
 I  here  no  Rebel!  am,  though  fuffering : 
 For  I  were  better  Croffe  and  Prif9n  prove, 
 Th<n  in  Gehenna  fry,  from  whence  is  no  remove. 
 
 33  And  as  In  all  humane  focieties. 
 The  m<?aner  Power  the  greater  doth  obay. 
 Till  to  the  PuruTKoHnt  it  doth  arife. 
 Which  power  ai;  inferiour  powers  fway  : 
 
 So  in  this  Po^er  fpirituall  we  may, 
 Behold*like  order  for  Ohcdience, 
 The  Pur  amount  is  Gods  high  Power  aye ; 
 For  though  we  do  Powers  reverence, 
 Yec  to  the  higheft  we  have  aiwaies  reference. 
 
 24  Who?t  more  unjnft  then  look  to  be  obeyed 
 
 By  our  infcriours,  and  to  difobay 
 
 1  hofe  God  haih  pl?x'd  above  us  for  our  aid? 
 
 Ah  h.ow,  I'i'j  '^:ill  he  done  may  wd  here  pray. 
 As  Angels  co  the  fame  in  Heav'n  for  aye  : 
 
 Wb.lch  we  fo  often  croffe  by  doing  ill. 
 
 More  of:en  then  are  minutes  m  a  day 
 
 ()h  let  my  Heart  be  ready  to  full  fill ! 
 Mine  Hearr  be  ready  Lord  to  learn  and  do  thy  Will. 
 
 35   Ready  in  all  things  lav/full  zo  obay 
 Supenours  ail,  to  do  things  juft  and  right. 
 To  love  my  Neighbour ;  for  mine  enemies  pray^ 
 Grace  to  embrace^  and  wich  Corruprir»ns  fight. 
 
 To  call:  off  earthly  thing.*?,  and  to  delight 
 Wholly  in  God,  and  heavenly  contemplation  ; 
 To  work  by  day,  to  watch  and  pray  by  night. 
 To  learn  ofChnfi,  Meel^eift^  Humiliutiln, 
 
 Wiih  trembling  and  with  Fear  to  work  out  my  Salvation. 
 
 i6  Since 
 
36  Since  I  muft  be  obedient  to  the  end. 
 How  (hould  I  end  to  beg  Ohedience  f 
 obedience,  which  to  Liberty  doth  tend, 
 I:  nd  us  reftores  unto  that  excellence 
 Which  Adam  loft  by  Bifohedience, 
 Let  others  glory  in  their  mighty  train. 
 And  large  command  of  many  Continents; 
 By  LMeeknejfe  and  Obedience  I  (hall  gain, 
 
 !  With  Meek^ebedient  Lamb  in  Heav'n  for  aye  to  reign. 
 
 P  4  MEDI- 
 
2,l6 
 
 Meditat,   III. 
 
 of  Metkne^c^ 
 
 |S  in  fair  Garden,  where  variety 
 Of  choifeft  Flowers,  ^tfetifes  to  delight. 
 Are  placet  by  cunning  hand  moft  curioufly. 
 Their  divers  colours  moft  affed  the  fight. 
 That  broad  and  faireft  fhew  &  ftand  upright. 
 But  ofc  we  finde  low  creeping  on  the  ground, 
 Ann  herb  whofe  odour  {^^^i  doth  more  invite 
 ,  Our  fmels,  then  ail  the  Tulip  there  are  found ; 
 So  is  it  with  this  Grace  which  I  do  next  propound. 
 
 2  For  though  the  goodlicft  Garden  of  the  'Bride ^ 
 Like  I.den  is  fo  fair  cmbelifhed 
 With  rif  heft  Fruits  and  Flowers,  from  fide  to  ^\^^^ 
 Their  names  and  hues  cannot  be  numbered. 
 
 Math  lefTe  their  force  ar»d  natures  be  aread ; 
 And  though  all  are  more  glorious  to  be  feen, 
 Then  Afecl^^^fe,  which  is  next  deciphered  : 
 Yet  none  more  pleafmg  to  our  fmell  I  ween. 
 
 Nor  more,  then  her,  refpecled  of  Loves  rojall  ^hfcen. 
 
 3    obedience,  Meehnefs,  and  Humility, 
 
 Are  Flowers  more  for  profit  then  for  fiiow, 
 Pleafing  the  fmell  and  tafte  more  then  the  eye, 
 And  lowly  like  fweet  Thyme  and  Hjfofe  grow  ; 
 
 Thcfe  by  the  outward  (?.qq  we  muft  not  know. 
 Their  imvard  vertpfe  'tis  that  we  efteem 
 Their  force  is  heavV.ly  though  their  dwellings  low. 
 And  may  the  greateft  ^Aonaich  here  befeem. 
 
 For  fure  the  King  of  Kiwgs  like  thefe  himfelf  did  deem. 
 
 '    •  •  4  And 
 
of  iMeef^eJfe.  z  1 7 
 
 4  And  us  commandcth  all  of  him  to  learn     V 
 Meekfte^e  and  loV^lirtefe  which  reft  doth  bring, 
 Eternall  Reft,  which  doth  our  Souls  concern 
 Here  more  then  any  vain  and  worldly  thing : 
 
 Moft  mighty  God  and  yet  the  meekifi  King  I 
 Fit  thou  my  Soul  for  this  fweet  Meditation ; 
 And  teach  me  meeknejff  whilft  I  nteekne^e  fing. 
 Which  bafc  and  mean  in  mans  vain  cftimation. 
 Is  with  the  Lordef  Lords  of  higheft  valuation. 
 
 5  Some  her  define  to  be  a  ?»o^fr^/#V» 
 
 O^  Anger:  And  would  have  her  to  abftain 
 From  all  revengeflill  furious  envious  paflion. 
 Thereby  pofTefiion  of  her  foul  to  gain : 
 
 For  who  doth  gentle  meeknejfe  entertain, 
 
 With  her  findes  happy  Peace  and  quiet  Refi  • 
 
 And  who  from  furious  r  age  will  non  refrain. 
 
 But  harbours  wrath  and  malice  in  his  breaft, 
 
 PofTefleth  not  himfelf  but  is  by  them  pofTeft. 
 
 6  Meek^,  gentle,  milde.foft^  affable,  and  kinde. 
 In  words,  though  divers  are  in  fenfe  the  fame ; 
 And  come  from  gentle  habit  of  the  mindc. 
 Which  like  it  idf  our  words  and  ads  doth  frarnc. 
 
 Making  wilde,  favage,  furious  creatures  tame, 
 For  all  arc  mad  and  wilde  fince  Adams  fall. 
 And  burn  in  furious  and  revengefull  flame. 
 But  meeknefs  mitigates  appcafing  all. 
 And  bleffed  here  in  peace  the  earth  inherit  (hall. 
 
 7  Meekne^e  which  pleafeth  God  and  profits  man, 
 For  God  the  wff^^xaltech  to  Salvation ; 
 
 And  thofe  which  here  abftain  from  Anger  can 
 In  multitude  0?  Peace  have  delegation  : 
 With  meekjar  better  is  humiliation, 
 Then  greateft  fpoils  with  proud  ones  to  divide. 
 Heavenly  fernfalems  no  habitation 
 For  thofe  which  Kight  by  Duelis  do  decide. 
 But  thofe  which  can  with  meeknejfe  injuries  abide. 
 
 8  She 
 
S  She  in  and  ranc^dr  is  her  heart  can  brook. 
 But  doth  all  with  an  cquall  minde  fuftain ; 
 Provok'd  by  none,  nor  doth  ftic  one  provoke ' 
 Though  oft  offended  hurteth  none  again : 
 
 She  doth  from  all  improbity  abftatn, 
 Rcfifts  not  evill  but  the  fame  with  good 
 Still  overcomes.  And  doth  more  glory  gain 
 By  gentle  yeelding  then  if  fhe  withftood 
 
 The  wicked  in  his  raging  furious  angry  mood, 
 
 9  Oh  Grace  moft  glorious,  when  God  her  fends 
 To  dwell  in  breaft  of  fome  great  Potentate ; 
 His  Heart  She  from  all  Cruelty  defends. 
 And  though  he  be  a  Lord  of  Life  and  Fate : 
 
 His  hands  with  bloud  doth  not  contaminate ; 
 She  fuch  a  Prince  to  Heav'n  at  length  will  bring. 
 Too  foon  for  us  though  fhe  may  think  it  late ; 
 Let  Homer  fierce  nAchilles  praifes  fing. 
 Give  me  a  mercifttll^  meekly  mildcy  3Lndgent/e  King, 
 
 10  For  Meeknejfe  brings  more  honour  to  a  King, 
 Then  Purple,  Sceper,  Diademe,  or  Crown, 
 And  richer  triumphs  doth  to  Emfrors  bring, 
 Then  winning  any  Cafile,  Port,  or  To-wn : 
 
 He  gets  eternal!  Glory  and  renown. 
 Who  can  by  meekpeffe  hndkpaJlions  right ; 
 LttTjrants  rage,  and  let  the  Furies  frown. 
 They  can  no  more  a  good  meekjnzn  affright. 
 Then  Arrows  hurt  the  water  that  thereon  do  light. 
 
 1 1  Inhumane  cruelty s  taught  in  the  fchool 
 
 *  Of  Satan  ;  who  would  like  himfelf  have  all ; 
 But  he  whofe  feat's  in  heaven,  and  his  footftool 
 Upon  the  earth ;  Before  whbfe  prefence  fall 
 Down  all  the  Angels,  and  him  Maker  call. 
 Bids  us  like  to  himfelf  be  meekjifid  low. 
 For  he  that  turn'd  to  fweet  that  cud  of  gall. 
 Can  make  the  meekjinA  lowly  higheft  grow. 
 
 And  with  one  blaft.the  proud  and  cruell  overthrow. 
 
 12  I 
 
12  Ilabotlrnottokccpdownordcpreflc^ 
 That  humane  natures  highfuhlimhj. 
 Without  which  creatures  bear  no  d^ffilHeffe 
 Nor  due  refpcft  unt©  the  Majefiy 
 
 God  hath  annexed  to  mans  Soverdgntj : 
 1  feek  to  fuit  his  minde  and  confcience. 
 Unto  his  outward  Grace  and  i^ignity. 
 And  raife  him  by  an  inward  confidence 
 Of  well-known  worth  to  an  angeiike  excellence. 
 
 1 3  Yet  not  by  thls/Mimity  to  fwell 
 
 Beyond  the  bounds  of  Mortals  :  He  that's  wife 
 Will ,  as  his  worth  and  due  dcferts  excell. 
 Be  flill  more  low  ond  humble  in's  own  eyes : 
 And  as  his  State  and  Honour  here  do  rife^ 
 He  is  more  modeft,  gentle,  meek,  and  kinde. 
 Preferring  not  himfelf  m  any  wife 
 Before  his  equals :  thus  he  grace  doth  finde, 
 By  gentle  manfuetude  with  God  and  all  mankinde. 
 
 14  For  whiift  by  an  obfequious  converfation. 
 And  by  ingenious  manners,  pleafing,  fweer  • 
 Far  from  htik  fiattery ^  as  vain  orientation 
 He  dorh  inferiours^  ecjualls,  betters  greet. 
 
 By  ioofing  of  his  own,  lo  he  doth  get 
 In  others  thoughts  the  highcft  eftimation  ; 
 His  head's  in  hcav'n,  though  on  the  earth  his  feet ; 
 And  by  anothers  vertues  veneration. 
 He  gecteth  of  his  own  all  love  and  admiration. 
 
 1 5  Oh  happy  man  to  whom  heav*ns  King  hath  fent. 
 This  Grace  to  be  the  glory  of  the  reft  ; 
 
 What  can  that  minde  moleft  or  difcontent. 
 That  harbours  gracious  meeknefs  in  his  breft  : 
 
 They  that  can  ro«r//wf/y  fair  digeft. 
 If  any  them  deride  or  reprehend, 
 S freight  of  themfelves  take  more  fevere  inqucft. 
 If  ought  be  juftly  blamed,  they  foon  amend. 
 If  falfe,  it  never  them  (hall  anger  or  offend. 
 
 16  MeekS 
 
22b  of  (J^feekffefe. 
 
 16  Meek^^  gentle,  patient ,  bearing  right  or  wrong, 
 From  inward  free,  as  outward  perturbation. 
 Revenge  is  not  a  thing  that  dorb  belong  3 
 To  her ;  (be  findes  far  greater  contentation 
 
 In  wrongs  dilTcmbling,  and  chcii  toiler ation : 
 The  wants  which  fhe  within  her  felf  doth  finde. 
 Her  more  depreffe  by  modejl:  moderation. 
 Then  all  her  venues  elevate  her  minde. 
 As  fait  ftie  favours  all  the  vertnes  in  their  kinde. 
 
 17  This  is  the  fame,  or  very  like  the  Grace, 
 Which  we  do  call  Chriftian  B^imiUtj ; 
 Without  which  other  vertues  have  no  place. 
 All  are  in  her  as  in  an  Vnitj  : 
 
 She  is  the  furcft  way  to  Dignity, 
 The  center  where  all  vertues  lines  do  meet, 
 Moft  honoured  when  fhe  moft  doth  vilifie 
 Her  felf.  And  when  fhe  ftoops  to  waih  Saints  ktt^ 
 The  higheft  King  of  Kings  with  kiffes  her  doth  greet. 
 
 18  Yet  none  of  worldlings  is  efteem'd  more  vile. 
 They  it  account  a  thing  coo  riicin  and  bafe. 
 Here  to  defcend  unto  fo  low  a  ihle ; 
 
 They  think  that  meeknejje  valonr  doth  difgrace  : 
 But  oh  abdird,  prefumptuous,  mortall  race ; 
 So  high  and  proud  in  thine  own  cftimation, 
 what  thing's  created  in  more  wretched  cafe  ? 
 Weak,  vain,  precipite,  and  on  each  occafion, 
 Ready  to  fall  from  higheft  hopes  to  defperation. 
 
 1 9  What  is  thy  Body  but  frail  quickned  clay  > 
 Thy  Soul's  fo  clouded  with  obfcurity  ; 
 
 Ic  is  moft  ready,  prone,  precipite  ay. 
 To  fall  to  bafeneffc,  errour,  vanity  : 
 
 Happy  who  fees  his  own  infirmity ; 
 Thus  by  defcending  only  we  afcend 
 Unto  the  higheft  humane  dignity  : 
 Firft  ftep  to  honour  is  to  vilipend 
 Our  feives :  Let  others  thee  and  not  thy  felf  commend. 
 
 ork  Mnne 
 
OfMeet^neJJe,  221 
 
 20  None  feeks  to  pull  his  foot  ouc  of  the  mire, 
 Until  he  feels  and  knows  than  it  is  in. 
 
 Nor  none  to  wafti  the  durt  off  doth  defire. 
 Until  he  fees  it  cleave  unco  his  skin : 
 
 So  till  this  Grace  us  (hews  our  feives  within. 
 We  never  feek  thofe  heav'nly  remedies, 
 To  purge  our  fouls  from  err  our  and  foul  finne ; 
 This  was  of  all  the  Oracles  moft  wife, 
 Firft,  kj^ow  thyfelf'  that  is,  thine  own  infirmities. 
 
 2 1  Thus  comes  the  pureft  wheat  from  fouleft  ground. 
 So  it  be  firft  well  till'd  and  harrowed. 
 
 And  thus  the  ignorant  grow  men  profound. 
 When  they  their  folly  have  difcovered. 
 Of  all  the  vertues  can  be  reckoned ; 
 The  roots  are  bitter,  fruits  moft  fweet  do  prove, 
 Self-Pride,  and  Arrogance  once  fetteled 
 In  humane  breaft,  moft  hard  are  to  remove. 
 This  work  belongs  to  r:eeknefs^  humhlenefsy  and  love. 
 
 22  Moft  pleafant  fruits,  which  from  this  root  do  fpring, 
 When  weeding  out  bafe  pleafures  falfe  and  vain. 
 She  true  delight  into  their  rooms  doth  bring 
 
 And  rich  Content  for  ever  to  remain, 
 
 Happy  who  can  this  Ladies  favour  gain ; 
 She  able  is  and  ready  to  defend, 
 Againft  Souls  troubles,  and  the  bodies  pais ; 
 The  meekJ^2X.  patiently  on  God  attend, 
 Are  fure  to  have  a  joyfull,  quiet,  happy  end. 
 
 23  Nothing  can  his  moft  noble  minde  appall. 
 Which  is  with  fuch  Tranquillity  indude; 
 CrofTes,  Afflidlions  may  him  here  befall. 
 But  bafe  or  abjeft  thoughts  cannot  intrude 
 
 Into  a  minde  of  fuch  an  habitude  : 
 Certain  his  breaft  all  vertues  doth  contain, 
 Who  hath  this  gentle  venue  manfuetude^ 
 Who  wants  her  boafts  of  virtue  but  in  vain. 
 They  are  butihcws  ofvertue  which  with  him  remain 
 
 24.1: 
 
Z2  Z  Of  Ul^eeknefff. 
 
 24  It  is  the  height  of  folly  to  bewray 
 Deiirc  where  we  no  power  have  to  offend  : 
 So  beat  the  Sea,  if  It  will  noc  obay. 
 Or  windes  which  crofie  the  way  thou  doft  intend  : 
 So  whom  then  canfl^  not  reach  his  pifture  reod; 
 Such  wounds  make  atrows  when  they  cleave  the  air  • 
 Yet  many  thus  with  rage  their  ipirits  fpend. 
 Were  it  not  better  far  to  bear  them  fair. 
 
 Bat  Folly  cannot  bear  though  th  ou  in  mortar  bray  her 
 
 25  If  an  AfTe  kicks  thee,  wile  thou  kick  again  > 
 
 Or  barks  a  Dog,  wilt  thou  ftraigbc  b.T.wl  and  cry  ; 
 Becaufe  one's  fooliih,  canil  thou  noc  refrain  > 
 But  needs  do  that  is  ill  for  company  > 
 
 Let  fools  fcorn  mean  Birth,  want,  deformity ; 
 This  (if  a  fault)  not  thine,  thy  Makers  is, 
 To  him  that's  rneekjao  infelicity 
 Can  fall  by  Fortunes  bitter  frowns  or  blifle. 
 He  counts  them  not  his  own,  true  vertue's  only  his/ 
 
 26  I  liken  Meeknefe  to  that  piece  of  wood. 
 Wherewith  the  Profhet  did  the  Fountains  heal , 
 And  made  the  bitter  waters  fweet  and  good : 
 For  fo  doth  Meekneft  with  AffiEiions  deal. 
 
 She  all  their  bitterneffe  with  joy  doth  feal, 
 Ev*H  that  accurfed  death  upon  a  Tree, 
 She  turneth  from  a  cnrfe  unto  our  fyeal  • 
 Bleft  are  the  MeekjihdX  for  wclUdoing  be 
 Hang'd  thereupon ;  from  thence  they  Faradife  may  fee* 
 
 27  A  meekjnsiiAs  mindc's  like  folitary  place, 
 Wliere  all  is  quiet,  fit  for  Contemplation ; 
 And  to  behold  his  Makers  Will  and  Grace, 
 Spending  his  time  in  fweeteft  meditation ; 
 
 But  crnellmindes  are  full  offertHrbatioff, 
 Like  to  a  marker  or  tumultuous  Fair, 
 Where  all  is  fill'd  with  noife  and  moleftatioh ; 
 Dirt  in  the  ftreets,  ftrong  clamors  in  the  air  j 
 Such  places  arc  unfit  for  Graces  fweet  repair. 
 
 ^O    A 
 
of  tJM.tikne^e.  22^ 
 
 28  A  mteksmAt'%  like  unto  Parnajfm  Hill, 
 Through  whofe  pure  air  (hines  Phoshu^  golden  ray ; 
 Whofefilver  Channels  purcft  Fountain  fill. 
 
 And  all  the  meads  bedeck  with  Lillies  gay : 
 
 The  Gardens  with  fair  Flowers  adorned  ay. 
 And  when  tiic  Brooks  do  murmurc  any  found  g 
 With  much  delight  fweet  Zefhjrm  doth  play. 
 And  all  the  Birds  upon  the  Trees  around, 
 Confort  with  Mnfes  nine  to  make  a  Heav*nly  found. 
 
 29  But  a  meekj^mAc  more  pleafing  is  then  all 
 Thefe  Flowers,  Fruits^  or  Mnficks  fweet  delight ; 
 
 No  fit  of  Furj  can  that  Heart  appall ;  j 
 
 For  as  a  Dart  may  on  the  water  light. 
 
 And  hurts  it  not  by  any  force  or  might  : 
 So  Force  nor  Fury  can  meekjc\n^t  offend. 
 For  it  gives  way  as  doth  the  water  light  : 
 Oh  happy  quiet  minde !  that  doth  ^tcend. 
 With  meek^e^e  on  Gods  bounteous  goodnefle  to  the  end. 
 
 30  As  when  the  glorious  Sm-^jBeavts  do  appear. 
 All  mifiy  cloudmejfe  is  turnM  to  day. 
 
 So  where  this  Grace  the  heart  of  man  doth  chcar. 
 All  pailSons  turbulent  are  driv'n  away ; 
 
 Then meek^ejfe mother  glorydoth  difplay. 
 When  (he  hath  juftcft  caufe  to  take  offeucc. 
 No  valour  like  this  Dames  behold  we  may. 
 Nor  any  like  her  modeft  Patience ; 
 A  nfcekjind  lowly  mlnde  excels  all  ornaments* 
 
 52  As  when  the  Lord  of  all  t0  us  did  come 
 In  humane  flcfh,  he  peace  and  concord  bred 
 Twixt  Men  and  Angels,  and  made  all  become 
 As  one  in  peace  and  quiet  in  their  head  • 
 
 So  where  this  meekneffe  doth  her  grace  difprcd. 
 There  Nations^  NtighboHrs,  KittdredMi  wc  findc 
 Lately  at  Difcord,  now  fait  fettered 
 In  Love  and  Friendfhips  Bands,  which  firmly  biudc 
 
 No  furer  band  of  love  then  meek  and  'gentle  minde. 
 
 I2ln 
 
224  Of  Adeekne^e 
 
 3  2  In  golden  Age  whenas  the  Poets  fain 
 
 Men,  Beafts,  Fifli,  Fowl  to  be  at  amity. 
 
 This  Lady  Meekriejfe  as  a  Queen  did  reign. 
 
 And  under  Love  had  all  Authority ; 
 But  fince  the  Iron  Age,  which  enmity 
 
 Hath  rais*d  in  cv'ry  River^  Town,  and  Fields 
 
 She  hath  refign*d  her  place  of  Soveraignty 
 
 To  ftiftice^  and  delights  now  more  to  yceld. 
 Then  Scepters  in  age  fo  turbulent  to  weeld. 
 
 3  3   And  for  flie  knows  the  noble  gentle  minde 
 
 Moft  fcnfible  o^iei>rong  and  injury ; 
 
 And  few  or  none  can  here  fo  conftant  iinde. 
 
 As  to  diflemble  foul  indignity 
 
 She  all  requefts  that  love  her  company, 
 
 Occalions  to  avoid  and  not  invite ; 
 
 Which  may  provoke  \tdSkjarre  or  Jtmultj, 
 
 And  not  like  techy  Cur«  to  bark  and  bite. 
 Or  Frogs,  which  Poets  fain  with  Bulrufhes  to  fightc 
 
 3  4  If  thus  they  cannot,  as  who  aye  can  here  ? 
 Avoid  fome  injuries  of  them  that  reign  ^ 
 They  muft  diflemble  and  withpleafing  cheer^ 
 What  they  can  no  waies  (hift,  fair  entertain ; 
 One  asi^'d,  how  fuch  old  age  he  did  attain 
 In  Court  ?  repli'd  by  bearing  injuries. 
 Sometimes  remitting  arid  fometimes  again, 
 For  them  gave  thanks,  thus  furely  he  that's  wife^ 
 
 By  fuffering  bears,  and  not  provokes  indignities. 
 
 3  5  And  fince  no  earthly  Power's  fo  great  and  firm, 
 Bui /«;//r;  fometimes  will  dare  tofmite. 
 Let  Wifedoms  precepts  fo  thee  ay  confirm. 
 Thou  never  fwervefrom  rules  of  Reafon  right : 
 
 So  armM,the  wrongs  which  on  thine  armour  light, 
 Shall  back  on  him  that  fent  the  fame  rebound ; 
 But  whom  unarm'd  fhe  can  provoke  to  fight. 
 Though  happily  they  think  her  to  confound,  I 
 
 They  fure  are  to  receive  a  deep  and  feftring  wound.  i 
 
 36  He 
 
■  .Oj  Meeknefe.  225 
 
 o  He  ftands  not  right  whom  Inj^iry  can  Low ; 
 V/ho  ill  bear  old,  do  on  them  new  invice  i 
 But  he  that  beat  iS  the  old  wich  Pottience,  kow 
 Shall  any  new  fee  able  him  to  fmite  ? 
 
 He  that  is  wife2ir\6,  valimt  fcorns  her  might. 
 And  by  brave  bcaringAoth  her  fpite  confound. 
 He  beft  o'recomes  that  lets  by  her  moft  light. 
 Who  by  impatience  addes,  is  like  him  found. 
 That  doth  by  rending  make  incurable  his  wound. 
 
 \  I   In  many  wrongs  'tis  better  to  be  mute, 
 
 Then  by  repeacing  them  oft  very  fmall. 
 
 To  caufe  long  trouble  or  a  tedious  fuit, 
 
 VVhilft  ail  the  fhame  doth  on  th'avenger  fall ; 
 Such  better  were  not  mentioned  at  all : 
 
 Invoke  the  help  oiconftant  Patience^ 
 
 Whofe  prefence  doth  all  In'jmes  appall, 
 I    And  with  an  equall  minde  bears  all  offence, 
 br  doth  dcfpife  them  in  her  guiitlerte  confcience. 
 
 3  2  Thus  many  offring  do  no  Injuries, 
 Becaufc  they  are  not  fo  conceiv'd  or  taken ; 
 Oh  happy  who  all  wrong  can  fo  defpife, 
 Wixh  fenfe  thereof  ne're  to  be  overtakea  ; 
 
 Whofe  unmov'd  conftant  minde  is  never  fliaken  ; 
 So  far  from  muttering  or  h^^  murmuring, 
 He  laughs  and  fmiles  to  fee  them  fo  miitaken, 
 Nor's  only  eafie  in  thQir  ^ardofu^/ff. 
 
 But  pafTeth  by  them  without  leaft  ackno^Xledging, 
 
 3  3  He  is  above  the  reach  of  InJHrki^ 
 
 Who  can  reprefle  revenges  curft  deiire. 
 
 And  to  the  full  repays  his  enecnleSg 
 
 Wh©  thus  can  quench  wraths  hot  injurious  fire. 
 Yet  holj  meekneffe  leads  us  a  ftep  higher  ; 
 ■  Happy  who  can  afcend  unto  fuch  height 
 
 It  is  ihtfummltj  which  all  admire. 
 
 Of  higheft  vertue  when  we  take  delight 
 All  Injtims  with  Benefits  here  to  requite. 
 
 Q^  3  4  The 
 
220  or  Jldeef^ejje. 
 
 3  4  The  Jcft  is  loft,  if  ic  no  laughter  move, 
 So's  Contumely  if  it  be  negleded; 
 He  never  will  a  valiant  Souldicr  prove 
 To  bear  hot  Blows,  that  is  with  words  affeded  j 
 
 He  fooner  is  with  noifomc  fmck  infcded. 
 Who  them  with  open  nofe  doth  entertain  j 
 Then  he  that  ftops  it,  or  bears  fome  fclcded 
 Prefervative  for  to  defend  his  brain  : 
 
 So  'tis  to  flop  or  ope  our  cars  to  proud  DifdaiH. 
 
 3  J  Poets  paint  ScjlU  with  a  VJOTa^nsface, 
 Bat  like  a  Dog  in  nether  parts  and  tail. 
 Whom  Hercules,  th'Idcaof  all  Grace 
 And  Vertuc,  did  amongft  the  monfters  quail. 
 You  give  her  Life  ifyou  will  hear  her  rail : 
 But  (hut  her  mouth  with  patient  fuffering. 
 Or  ft  op  thine  etrs,  and  foon  her  breath  will  fail  % 
 Here  Meehefe  ends,  and  here  I  ceafe  to  fine, 
 
 She  doth  more  quiet  Reft  then  all  the  Vertuc*  bring 
 
 MEDIs 
 
227 
 
 M  £  D  I  T  A  T*    I  V^ 
 
 OfC9ds  Word. 
 
 b  mighty  are  the  Trf^po;?^  manifold,     . 
 Wherewith  our  Jplritual  Foes  do  us  aflail ; 
 So  many  ftratagems  us  to  infold. 
 So  many  terrors  vain  our  hearts  to  quail. 
 That  neither  BreftpUte,  Belmet^  Shield ^  or 
 Us  help  againft  their  Focces  can  afford ;  (Mail, 
 
 For  if  they  clofe  with  us  they  will  prevail. 
 Therefore  we  muft  unfheathe  our  ksemft  Sword  y 
 Our  weapon Jpirit'/f all,  ev'n  gsds  mofi  holj  Word. 
 
 2  Which  thofc  that  able  are  to  weeld  aright. 
 Of  far  more  Force  and  lively  Power  finde, 
 Then  all  the  weapons  whereof  Poets  write, 
 
 ^    To  have  been  wondrous  pow'rfull  in  their  kinde  •. 
 What  Homer  of  Achilles  Spear  hath  coyn^d, 
 
 I  not  unfitly  to  this  Sword  apply  ; 
 
 Whofe  wounds  to  heal  no  *BaIm  could  be  ailign'd, 
 ^  The  ^y/jf^r  that  hurt  muli  only  remedy; 
 So  whom  this  Sword doih  kill,  this  Sword  muiJi  vivifie. 
 
 3  Of  wondrous  weapons  Heathen  Poets  tell, 
 Oi  Stjgian  Armour,  and  enchanted  Swords ; 
 Whereby  fmail  Knights  did  monftrous  Giants  quell, 
 SubduM,  and  reigned  over  them  as  Lords, 
 
 \  Such  fidion  to  us  good  advice  affords, 
 
 Againft  thefe  Giants  jpirituall  to  fight, 
 bur  Flejhlj  Lkfi^s,  and  for  to  binde  in  Cords, 
 Our  vain  affedionshere  that  take  delight, 
 In  doing  that  is  wrong,  and  leaving  tkat  is  right. 
 
 Q  2  ^ri 
 
ong  OfGodsTVord. 
 
 4  God  of  ail  might  that  haft  us  giv*ii  this  Si;t^ord, 
 Not  only  fpirttuaf  Battels  hcrt  co  fight, 
 
 But  doli  engrave  in  ir,  as  on  retord 
 
 ThV  Rules,  whereb}'  we  i^^/^/fr  may  aright ; 
 
 the  Lanthom  CO  our  paths,  our  teecs  beft  light, 
 Dire^  my  Muje  to  fing  I  humbly  pray 
 Of  thi§  thy  H'^ord  by  holj  fVoyds  iniighc, 
 For  but  by  it  none  csn  aright  difplay 
 That  Swords  eternal  Power,  which  Sin  and  HeU  difmay. 
 
 5  That  j^ord  which  jn  Beginning  by  a  word. 
 
 Of  Ncthijig  made  Heav'n,Earch,and  Creatures  all 
 And  was  from  all  Beginning  gcd  and  Lord, 
 Doth  not  within  my  Mufes  compaiTe  fall : 
 
 That  f'Ford  whereof  now  meditate  I  (halJ, 
 Is  that  revealed  '^rntten  veritj,  '     , . 
 
 Which  firft  and  fecond  Teflamcut  we  call : 
 Both  which  were  firft  declared  mightily 
 By  wonders,  rigns,and  miracles  from  God  on  high. 
 
 6  For  as  the  Lord  moftmJghty  wonders  wrought. 
 By  him  that  publikely  did  firft  record 
 This/acred  jvord :  And  by  his  Hand  forth  brought 
 His  Sonnes  from  bondage  of  a  cruell  Lord  : 
 
 So  thofe  to  whom  he  d  d  this  Grace  afford, 
 Of  piib!{hing  his  later  Tofiamcnt, 
 Wrought  m.ighty  wonders  oy  this  mighty  jvord. 
 To  all  beholders  great  aftonifnment, 
 Confirming  thus,  that  they  from  God  above  were  fent, 
 
 7  From  whom  this  Word  hath  all  Authority, 
 For  by  the  holy  Spirits  infpiration. 
 Came  La\^  and  Gcjpel,  T-rophets,  Hifiorj, 
 And  all  Canonicall  wife  ordination : 
 
 The  il^.cred  Ligk  that  gives  illumination 
 Uctil  the  T)aj'St^.r  in  our  Hearts  arife  ;. 
 \Vnofe  heav'nly  Wifedom  breedeth  Admiration 
 In  ail  their  Hearts  that  are  divinely  wife. 
 But  folly  feems  to  fuch  as  fin  doth  blinde  their  eyes. 
 
And  furc  it  is  a  rhigb-y  powerful!  word^ 
 If  that  the  fenfe  thereof  be  righc  applied. 
 More  keen  then  any  fnarp  two-edged  fword. 
 And  ev^n  the  Soul  and  Spirit  doth  divide  : 
 By  it  are  all  our  hearts  intents  defcri'd. 
 The  jovnts  and  marrow  it  doth  fmite  in  (imder. 
 No  Creature  from  her  fight  it  felf  ean  hide. 
 All  hi^h  exalted  things  it  bringeth  under  : 
 .^nd^gainft  all  difobedience  foundeth  out  like  thunder. 
 
 This  was  the  Sword  wherewirh  our  valiant  Head, 
 When  he  was  tempted  in  the  WiideraefTe, 
 And  with  a  fix- weeks- faif  (ore  ^j^eakened. 
 Did  free  himfelf  from  Hels  malicioufnefTe  i 
 
 j        When  firft  on  him  his  Enemy  did  prefTe, 
 He  usM  the  hilts  himfelf  for  to  defend. 
 But  when  he  could  not  thus  his  Foe  reprefTe ; 
 Lo  he  the  point  againft  his Breaft  doth  beni  ; 
 
 Behifide  me,  SAtan,  All  Gods  worfhip  muft  attend. 
 
 JO  Thofe  that  will  ufe  aright  this  holj  pvord, 
 
 Muft  not  the  letter  but  &^fenfe  apply ; 
 
 Or  elfe  they  ufe  the  Scabbard  for  xk^^yvord. 
 
 Wherewith  none  ever  v;on  the  Vi<^ory  : 
 It  is  the  Myfterj  of  Iniquity^ 
 
 To  take  the /effer  and  to  leave  the/e;ij/^. 
 
 The  forge  of  Antichrijis  Iciolatry, 
 
 Th^  feigned  Rock^^  the  Keys  of  Heaven  from  vvlience 
 He  claims  to  Vniverfall  Power ^  Obedience. 
 
 1 1  A  multitude  of  words  but  all  ontfenfe. 
 And  tending  all  to  that  grand  myftery. 
 To  which  all  rayfteries  have  reference. 
 Mans  perfonaii  union  with  the  Deity  : 
 
 The  which  to  God  was  known  infallibly 
 In  his  eledion  ere  the  worlds  Foundation, 
 And  all  the  Books  it  fcems  to  typifie  ^ 
 
 From  Genefs  unto  the  Revelation^ 
 
 Sublime,  tranfcendant  myiieries  of  mans  Salvation. 
 
 Q.3  u 
 
1 2  How  fiiould  my  Mufe  thefe  hope  to  comprehend 
 ]n  this  (horC  faindng  breath  of  meditation ; 
 Which  doth  all  humane  wic  and  skill  tranftend. 
 Who  each  ^ord  hath  an  hid  fignification  : 
 
 Each  Utter,  pricks,  ^nd  pomt,  an  obfervation. 
 Ail  favouring  of  Wifedom,  true,  divine. 
 And  far  beyond  mans  weak  iaveitigation. 
 In  it  fuch  rare  profound  deep  Learning  (hine, 
 A  Volume  is  not  able  to  expound  a  Line. 
 
 1 3  Fie  then  on  thofe,  that  fwoln  with  vain  ambition 
 To  fway  ail  Kingdoms  with  material  (word ; 
 Preferre  before  this  pvordthQiv  vain  t',uditioH^ 
 Which  nought  but  vainnefTe  like  themfelves^afford  : 
 
 :  Their  names  be  m pcd  out  of  the  Record 
 And  Book,  which  ail  thy  Saints  names  doth  contain  • 
 that  thus  do  feck  to  vilifie  this  jvord. 
 Which  to  accomplifli  Gods  own  Scnne  was  flain. 
 And  thouland  Martjrs  fpent  their  bloud  it  to  maintain. 
 
 14-  So  deal  with  Prophets,  that  to  hide  confpire 
 From  fimple  people.  Food  fpirituali ; 
 Which  they,  as  new  born  Babes  do  milk  defire, 
 1  tiat  they  may  grow  up  to  be  ilrong  and  tall : 
 
 I  grant  as  Mothers  Breafis  do  bell:  of  all 
 t-I.^urilh  the  Childe,  fo  doth  Gods  hdj  jVord, 
 Wliich  ffom  our  Alothcr-Churchcs  brcafts  doth  fall 
 Beirnouridiment  unto  her  Babes  afford  • 
 
 Sf )  as  it  b^  fmcere  ;   Elfe  be  it  all  abhor'd. 
 
 ]  5  True  Angels  Food  I  fweet  Afama,  pure,  divine, 
 •  My  '^P^^^^^  '^^^(y  ^T^e^d  and  nounfhmenr, 
 \Vh:ch  wanting  (he  doth  hunger,  ftervc  and  pinc^ 
 And  yef  Id  to  Bodies fleftily  Regiment : 
 
 M  y  Soul  with  f^r.t  and  -(narrow  is  c  ontent, 
 Wlicn  i  with  joyfull  lips  thy  praifes  Ting, 
 A-  d  i^a  upon  thy  Law?  great  wonderment ; 
 \\  h  ch  to  fubjedion  doth  my  Body  bring, 
 
 A  d  iiitikcs  the  Sftrit  rule  and  order  like  a  King. 
 
 i6  The 
 
6  The  Spirit  it  compares  to  Looking- gla^e. 
 Where  we  our  Faces  Spots  may  ail  behold  ; 
 But  foon  out  of  our  memory  they  paiFe, 
 Like  to  a  Dream  or  Tale  that's  idlely  told  : 
 
 But  who  his  minde  thereon  doth  daily  hold. 
 Doth  walk  in  perfed  Law  o( Liberty^ 
 Which  to  him  doth  apparently  unfold 
 His  Soul  and  Flefhes  leaft  deformity, 
 And  iheweth  him  the  means  the  fame  to  redifie. 
 
 17  Ev'n  as  the  Rain  indifferently  doth  fall. 
 Upon  the  firuitfull  and  the  barren  ground ; 
 So  preached  is  this  Heav'niy  Word  to  all. 
 Though  to  the  faithieffe  it  be fruideffe  found. 
 
 Oh  where  this  ^orddoth  powerfully  fonnd. 
 The  ftrongeft  holds  of  fin  it  il^atters  down  ; 
 And  things  moil  high  exalted  doth  confound. 
 It's  fmalleft  Seed  in  lowly  Valley  fown. 
 Eft  fuddenly  is  ro  a  mighty  Cedar  grown. 
 
 1 8  It  is  is  reported  of  the  lilver  Dove, 
 
 She  near  the  pureft  Streams  doth  mo^  delight ; 
 In  which  fhe  may  efpie  the  fhadow  move. 
 Of  towring  Faleon,  or  the  ravening  Kite  ; 
 
 Whereby  (he  is  fore-warnM  to  fcape  by  flight. 
 From  crueil  Hawks  that  feek  her  for  a  prey  ! 
 So  if  in  fpirkuall  ihcams  we  cake  delighr. 
 Our  fpirituai  Foes  we  there  diicover  may. 
 That  fo  our  Souls  fore-warn'd  like  Doves  might  fly  away. 
 
 19  Moft  glorious  Sun-fhine  I  where  it  doth  enlighr, 
 More  comfortable  Light  hath  never  fhone ; 
 
 But  when  She  doth  withdraw  her  Beams,  is  night 
 And  darknefle  fpirituall,  far  grofTer  grown. 
 
 Then  that  which  three  dales  was  to  Pharctoh  known ; 
 Hard-hearted  Pharaoh  thou  that  didfl  defpii'e. 
 This  Word  and  all  the  wonders  by  it  Oiown,       nr' 
 Ev'n  all  thy  plagues  light  on  them  that  devife. 
 To  hide  this  heav*nlj  Light  from  fimple  peoples  eyes. 
 
 0^4  20  Ic 
 
1^2  Vj  uoasfvora. 
 
 20  It  is  the  door  whereby  die  Partors  may 
 Spiritually  afcend  into  ciieu  Fold, 
 Thofe  that  do  enter  in  another  way 
 We  do  as  ravening  wolves  and  robbers  hold  : 
 
 This  Word's  a  Touchft one  which  doth  try  from  Gold 
 All  mcrtals  bafe,  inventions  of  mans  brain, 
 Of  which  fuch  il;ore  at  Latwm  now  are  fold. 
 Not  for  the  J/6e^. but  for  the  «y/;f;?^fWj  gain,        -    • 
 Ma [fc,  Dirges, Pardons, Trental's,  and  Traditions  V2i\n:  ■ 
 
 21  Nothing  dcfcribe'bei:  nature  better  will, 
 Then  Touchfione  ;ih'u(c  cf  which  fimpleft  may  learn. 
 But  one  had  need  of  cunning  Gold-fmiths  skill ; 
 True  ToHchftone  from  a  falle  one  to  difcern. 
 
 Oh  liow  did  thofe  noble  Berea?is  earn  ! 
 To  try  thofe  things  that  Paul  delivered. 
 The  things  which  our  Salvation  concern, 
 By  that  which  in  the  Scriptures  they  had  read. 
 The  Scriptures  that  the  Spirit  had  canonized. 
 
 22  Who  from  the  Hmple  people  thefe  do  hide, 
 Ds-i^l  as  with  jfinn  did  the  Crif;a;^iie, 
 Who  no  S-mth  fuffer'd  in  their  Coafts  t'abide, 
 To  make  a  weapon  for  an  Jfradite  : 
 
 Therefore  no  fpear  nor  (word  when  they  fhould  fight,, 
 Biit  in  Sauls  hands  and  fonathans  were  found, 
 Charr.s  hellifh  policy,  mcft  dev'liih  fleight. 
 To  hold  in  Ignorance  and  Bondage  bound 
 By  taking  way  liich  as  Liberty  propound. 
 
 2  3    As  firft  G od  by  his  }Vcrd  and  Sfirit  wrou ght. 
 And  faihion'd  all  things  in  this  worlds  Creation, 
 So  by  this  word  and  Spirit  he  hath  brought. 
 All  things  to  pafTe  in  this  our  n novation  ! 
 And  as  he  for  our  Bodies  prefervarion. 
 Hath  here  materiail  bread  and  Wine  prepared, 
 So's  Word  and  Spirit  is  for  fuftentation 
 Of  ail  our  Souls,  that  rightly  ic  regard, 
 
 Such  i)evcr  need  of  third  and  hunger  be  afeard. 
 
 '    ■  •  24  As 
 
^  OfG$dsWord,  ^l^ 
 
 24  As  Appetite's  a  Sign  of  Bodies  Health, 
 
 So  of  tfee  Souls  is  hunger  of  his  Word ; 
 
 And  as  to  him  that  feekcth  ftore  of  health,  ^  ^  ■ 
 
 A  Mine  canbeft  what  he  defircs  afford : 
 
 So  he  that  Spritmll  treafures  up  would  hoard. 
 
 Come  to  this/^cr^/f/f^W  where  he  fliall  finde, 
 
 It  doth  a  world  of  myfteries  record. 
 
 The  richeft  Jewels  to  adorn  the  minde,  t 
 
 True  treafare's  no  where  clfe  revealed  c4  mankinde. 
 
 :  \  'J  11 
 
 25  For  it's  the  Magaz^in^  wbere  pa^AOrstave, 
 All  gems  and  tre'afnres  to  eiirich  their  fold  j  ^  '  / 
 The  ftore-hoiife,  whence  they  All  abundance  crave  -  ^If 
 Of  living  food ,  ijieir  lamb*  in  plif'hr  to  hold  ; 
 
 ThQarmo'/j,  irom  whence  thrr'  iriiy  he  bold. 
 To  fetch  all  arms  and  weapons  to  v^-  if  hftand  /  / 
 
 The  wolves  which  them  iofei^ :  artd  to  v-phold  *^  - 
 
 Truth  and  the  right  3  gainft  all  Satans  band,  ' ' 
 
 Falfe  Herecicks,  baie  Lufts,  and  worlds  encroaching  hand; . 
 
 26  But  as  :hc  J/.//w-^j  that  from  Heav'n  was  fent,  -^  o; 
 Bred  Worms,  if  wrong.,  but  Food  if  rightly  ufed,  " 
 So  breeds  this  yrordovx  Souls  due  nounlliment,  -'■ 
 But  nev^r-dying  worm.s  if  once  abufed : 
 
 He  that  for  Egy^ts  Fkj9?-pots  hath  refu fed, 
 This  Heav'nlj  Foi^,  And  mans  tradition  vain,  -  i 
 
 FLs  l>3.re  faife  lying  Legends  rather  chufed. 
 Shall  vv'hilft  this  Flcfh  between  his  jaws  remain. 
 Be  with  his  great  and  wealchieii  chokn/havelmgsiigm, 
 
 27  Fountain  of  Living  Water  !  which  doth  more 
 And  fafler  fpring,  as  ir  is  em.ptied, 
 
 Moft  frfiitfu/l  Vine  which  bringeth  ftill  more  ftore. 
 Of  heav*nly  grapes,  as  they  are  gathered. 
 
 Th' epifile  of  Heavens  King,  which  rightly  read. 
 Brings  us  the  gladfome  tidings  of  Salvation ; 
 Whofe  harder  knftjirong  men  may  chew  as  bread. 
 The  plainer  bahes  may  fuck  for  fuftentation ; 
 We  both  aright  concod  by  heav'nly  meditation, 
 
 2S  Th 
 
S5#  Kf  ^^'  »'rora, 
 
 -18  The  Svfordth^t  doth  fpiricually  ^mic 
 
 From  us  all  manner  of  concup<iccnce  2 
 
 Oar  jouths  reformer  and  our  Mjs  guide, 
 
 T'ranfcending  re/ifon  more  then  reajfon  fence ; 
 Truths  ground  the  Fountain  of  Intelligence  ; 
 
 Lwes  complement  the  root  of  humhUneffe  j 
 
 Fdiths  hold  the  Rule  ef  allOhedience  : 
 
 Hofes  anchor  and  the  path  ofRighteoufnejfe, 
 Whc  ladder  which  we  climbe  from  hence  co  Happinefe, 
 
 19  Would  you  have  more  ?  it  is  the  milkjincere. 
 Which  can  alone  quench  Hells  erernall  fire  ; 
 The  only  Daughter  to  her  Another  dear. 
 The  myftery  which  Angels  do  admire, 
 
 Tbcfweetefi  Song  of  bleiTed  heav'niy  Quire  : 
 Whofe  Praife  ev*n  til  che  heavenly  Powers  iing ; 
 Afojiles, Prophets, Martyrs,  alldefire 
 With  all  rhcir  might  10  tlrike  this  lofty  firing. 
 
 Which  David m  one  Plrdm  a  thoufand  timei  doth  ring, 
 
 30  As  Jacob  wkh  che  Angel  wrefteled. 
 Nor  \qi  him  go  without  a  blefting  would ; 
 So  when  words  myfteries  by  us  arc  read. 
 
 We  ftrive  and  firugglc  for  the  meaning  (hould  : 
 
 A  goodly  ftrife  if  we  contending  could 
 Hold  out,  till  what  we  feek  we  do  obtain ; 
 As  Jncenfe  doth  no  pleafing  fmell  unfold. 
 Nor  Spice  till  it  be  in  a  Mortar  brain. 
 So  are  rvords  myfteries,  till  ftudy  makes  them  plain. 
 
 3 1  This  makes  the  lips  ofchrijls  endeared  Bride, 
 Then  any  Hcny-comb  to  drop  more  fweec  ; 
 And  underneath  her  daintieft  tongue,  abide 
 Hony  and  MUkj^  The  Bony  is  moll  meet 
 
 To  heal  the  wounds  Sin  makes  from  head  to  ^ttt^ 
 The  Mllkjox  Babes  :  Lo  thus  her  either  Breaft, 
 Which  like  two  twining  Roes  do  cquall  meet, 
 Yeeld  mod  abundant  Food,  if  fofdy  preli. 
 And  both  with  Rofis  fweec  and  Lillies  fair  are  dreft. 
 
 32Tliis 
 
2  This  IS  the  Tstver  <f  7) avid  which  is  built 
 By  th'holy  Spirit,  of  moft  coftly  ftone ; 
 Whereon  a  thonfand  Shields  i^o  hang  all  guilt 
 With  Swords  nnd  \^eafons  for  the  mightiefi Qm : 
 
 This  is  the  Privy  Garden  where  alone 
 T  he  Sfofffe  with  Bridegroom  doth  her  fclf  delight. 
 Planted  with  NardtiSy  Saffron,  Cinamon, 
 And  all  trees  good  for  Medicine,  tafte,  or  fight, 
 fhrough  which  doth  flow  a  well  of  living  waters  bright      - 
 
 5  3  Moft  heavenly  Paradife !  where  Tree  of  Life 
 
 My  Soul  moft  heav'nly  Fruits  doth  daily  bring; 
 
 Fit  for  the  Lamb  to  walk  in  wi:h  his  wife. 
 
 And  for  che  Spcfffe  moft  Jngel-likt  to  fing. 
 The  Soveraign  Grace  and  "Bounty  of  her  King ; 
 
 Wl-ere  though  I  ofter  feek  to  hide  in  vain. 
 
 Me  from  my  Nakedncfledifcovering, 
 
 My  bkfTed  Bridegroom  calieth  me  again. 
 And  clothes  me  with  the  Robes  of  Lamb  moft  righteous  flain. 
 
 34  There  Afanna'\\)Lt  (Lo)  ev*ry  Fruit  doth  tafte, 
 Juft  as  we  would,  none  juftiy  can  complain  ; 
 Though  his  unwecded  Garden  lieth  wafte, 
 God  fends  to  good  and  bad  alike  his  rain : 
 
 Let  him,  v;here  ihorns  and  briars  do  remain 
 Take  heed  how  he  this  heav'niy  dew  accufe  • 
 It  is  the  root,  thy  evil  heart  and  vain, 
 Wliich  doch  the  fweetnefTs  of  this  rain  abufe  5 
 
 Which  for  to  water  weeds  and  nettles  doth  it  ufc. 
 
 3  5  How  fhoujd  tliis  TVord  be  fv^eet  unto  the  mouth 
 
 Wherein  is  nought  but  Gall  and  BitternefTe  1 
 
 Or  how  fiioulu  heavenly  dews  from  Weft  or  South, 
 
 Moiften  that  Heart,  which  by  malicioufneiTe 
 
 More  hardned  'a  then  Flint  in  wickednelTe : 
 Alas  what  Corn  can  fwceteft  rain  forth  bring. 
 In  Ground  that  choked  is  with  worldlinefle  : 
 Wiiereas  the  thorns  up  with  the  wheat  do  fpring. 
 And  from  the  root  fuck  up  all  heav'niy  nouriftiing. 
 
 36Ev*n 
 
'->»'  i</  yjuas  WW  or  a, 
 
 36  Ev'nasaZ^w/JwithoutfupplyofOyl 
 Being  daily  had,  is  foon  cxtmgi?i(hcd;  ■'' ^    •' 
 
 So  though  we  fe^m  to  prof{>er  herie  a  while  > ^ '  •    -  /^ 
 In  Faith  and  C^r^ce,  all's  fo'oiT  abolifhed     "  rV-v.r  " .    . . 
 
 UnieflTe  that  they  be  daily  nourifhcd,    T  a^'is  ■ !  -^i.:  ^ 
 With  He^rmg^Re^dtHg.  Prayer, Meditatiofi,' '  ' '  *^ 
 In  vain  it  with  our  motiths  is  uttered. 
 Except  it  in  our  hearts  makes  habitation ; 
 And  we  exprefle  it  in  our  lives  and  convcrfation. 
 
 37  Oh  let  this  holy  ^W/m oft  heav'niy  Fire^ 
 My  fecrec  fouM  affedions  inflame. 
 
 And  burn  up  aU  c^  ain  fledily  worlds  defire : 
 Oh  blefled  Fir-eX  liJ^e  chat  in  Bujh  did  flame. 
 But  never  did  confume  or  burn  the  fame ; 
 The  fire  whereby  Gold  CathoUke  \%  tride. 
 And  jf:raw  and  ^nbUd  err  our  brought  to  pjame. 
 In  whom  this  inward  fire  doth  aye  relide ; 
 He  Well  the  fcorching  heat  of  outward  may  abide. 
 
 38  But  as  nofiejhly  eyes  can  here  behold^ 
 
 The  glorious  Sun  but  by  that  Suns  fweet  fight ; 
 So  no  mans  under fianding  may  be  bold 
 To  know  this  word  but  whew  it  doth  enlight. 
 Lordy  in  thy  Light  then  let  me  fee  this  Lights 
 Whereby  I  may  my  finfull  life  amend ; 
 And  in  thy  Statutes  fet  my  whole  delight. 
 And  wholly  in  the  waies  of  wifedom  tend. 
 So  (hall  my  foot  ftand  faft,  with  joy  unto  the  end. 
 
 39  For  as  the  Show  and  Rain  from  Heav'n  defcend, 
 But  never  thither  do  return  again 
 
 Till  that  be  done  for  which  thou  didfl  them  fend, 
 To  make  the  fruitful  1  Soil  fit  fot  the  Grain ; 
 
 So  never  fhall  thy  pf/ord  return  in  vain. 
 But  iure  accomplifh  what  thou  doft  intend ; 
 Then  moiftcn  daily  with  this  heavenly  rain. 
 My  hardned  Heart,  that  all  my  powers  may  bend, 
 To  glorifie  thy  name  who  doft  thefc  (bowers  fend. 
 
 40  How 
 
OfGodsfVOrd,  237 
 
 40  How  ihould  he  fear  to  want  his  daily  Feed, 
 .  Who  with  this  m^rd  efLifi^is  nourifheld  ? 
 
 Or  who  cat!  thirft  thai:  dnaketh  of  his  bloud? 
 Let  not  thlsivord  be  undervalued : 
 
 He  that  is  wit^  this  Heavnlj  Manna  fed. 
 Eats  of  the  fatteli  of  Cods  fpirituall  ftorc ; 
 Wherewith  Chrifts  tender  Spoufe  is  foftcred. 
 Till  She  grow  ftrong  and  fair  to  ftand  before 
 Her  Head,  and  never  thirft  nor  hunger  any  more. 
 
 41  This  fvord's  Eternall,  therefore  hath  no  end  ; 
 I  no  beginning  nor  conclufion  finde. 
 I  could  herein  my  Life  and  Spirits  fpend. 
 It  doth  fo  feed  my  Soul  and  glad  my  mindc : 
 
 But  now  my  Mufe  to  Prayer  is  affign'd. 
 And  bows  her  l^ees  to  end  Her  Meditation 
 With  Traife  to  Him  who  firft  mine  Heart  inclin'd. 
 To  fcek  this  Heavenly  Food  ^f  Contemplation, 
 I  hope  unto  his  Glory  and  mine  own  Salvation. 
 
 MEDI- 
 
^38 
 
 Meditat,    Va 
 
 of  Frajer, 
 
 t^^^^i  wife,  cxperienc*d,  valiant  Generally 
 ^'  A  ^  When's  Souldiv-r  armed  is  froua  Foot  to  Head, 
 Jli     ^  "^"^  ^^^^^  ^^  ^^^^'^  ^^^  Siiield  md  Sword,  and  air 
 ^^^'^-^  His  Armour ,  with  his  Bek  faft  buckelcd ; 
 
 Yet  him  into  the  Battel  will  not  lead. 
 Till  he  be  taught  his  Sword  aright  to  wield,  ^ 
 
 To  take  Advantages  if  offered, 
 And  to  defend  his  Body  with  his  Shield : 
 Then  him  thus  taught  and  trainM  he  leads  into  the  Field; 
 
 2  So  we,  that  in  thefe  fhirituall  Battels  fight. 
 Not  with  frail  Fiefh  b\xi  Principalities ; 
 And  powers  of  exceeding  force  and  might, 
 Befides  their  treafon,  plots,  and  policies, 
 
 Muft  firft  be  taught  in  Arms  to  exercife ; 
 That  all  in  ccmfleat  Armonr  ordered 
 And  taught  how  to  affauk  our  enemies. 
 They  with  our  S^^md  may  be  difcomfited, 
 And  we  from  Hell  and  Bondage  fafe  delivered,- 
 
 3  I  of  this  Afilhary  Art  do  know 
 No  Tutor  like  to  holj  f/ipplication ; 
 Prajer  who  ufe  of  ail  our  Arms  doth  ftio^g- 
 The  Sergeant  MAJor  of  our  Aiilitation : 
 
 jymntkPrajierylioV^  Meditatioyiy 
 Whereby  with  God  we  have  fweet  conference  ^ 
 About  the  Myfteries  of  Mans  Salvation ; 
 And  call  the  Angels  down  for  our  defence 
 *fi|inl  Fiefh's^Worlds  and  Devils  hoftile  violencCe 
 
 4  T>r4p7: 
 
Of  Prayer,  z%§ 
 
 4  Prajery  who  though  her  knees  bow  in  tie  duft> 
 y  ec  are  her  upper  part?  above  the  sky ; 
 
 And  do  into  th' Almighty's  prefence  thrnft. 
 To  crave  of  ail  we  want  a  new  fupply : 
 
 Which  like  to  clouds  of  inccnfc  up  do  fly. 
 If  offered  by  his  Sons  fweet  mediation ; 
 Whofc  juft  requefts  no  Father  can  deny ; 
 Oh  offer  mine  then.  That  this  Meditation 
 May  be  diredcd  by  thy  Spirits  illumination. 
 
 5  True  Trayer  is  the  opening  the  defirc 
 
 E  v*n  of  our  Heart  and  Soul  to  God  aright ; 
 Them  powring  out  to  him  that  doth  require 
 We  fhould  lay  open  all  before  his  fight : 
 The  Sacrif.ce  wherein  he  doth  delight, 
 A  fure  defence  to  him  that  right  doth  pray ; 
 The  Scourge  wherewith  wey/«  and  Satan  fmitc. 
 And  powers  all  and  policies  gainfay. 
 Our  fureft  iJf//afj[^  in  each  dangerous  Affray. 
 
 6  For  Chrift'ianfouldier  never  knecleth  down. 
 And  lifts  his  heart  up  towards  Hcav*n  to  pray. 
 But  all  his  Foes  fpirituall,  him  arown 
 Aflault  and  labour  htm  herein  to  ftay : 
 
 Then  is  it  time  for  him  about  to  lay. 
 With  his  Jbarp  S^trd  to  put  them  all  to  flight. 
 And  for  to  arm  each  pare  left  they  him  flay. 
 With  Greaves,  BeIt,Breftplate,ShieU  and  lielmt  bright,- 
 In  Faith^Hope^Patience,  Trtith  and  Right eonfnejfe  to  fight. 
 
 7  By  Rules  of  Art,  I  Prayer  may  divide 
 
 To  thefe  two  Heads,  Xhanks-giving,  Invocation  ; 
 The  fecond  I  in  three  do  iubdivide^ 
 Petition^  Intercefflan^  Deprecation  ; 
 
 Firftfeek?  Gods  Glory  and  our  own  Salvation* 
 the  fecond  doth  for  others  make  petition, 
 (  So  Chrift  doth  intercede  by  mediation  ) 
 By  laft  we  do  entreat  for  fins  remiflion. 
 And  be  delivered  from  all  ill  and  fupcrftition. 
 
 SB«t 
 
^Z^0  Of  Prayer. 
 
 8  But  as  the  Seuldier  be  he  nc'rc  fo  ftrong , 
 
 Well  arm'd,  and  skil'd  in  points  of  School-defence :> 
 If  that  Imjpirit  faint  is  laid  along  : 
 So  if  we  in  ovv  Arms  have  confidence. 
 
 And  not  rclye  on  Gods  fole  Providence ; 
 His  Spirit  whicl;  heipeth  our  infirmities. 
 And  doch  mftriid  tp  pray  with  reverence. 
 Sending  tip  heart  and  foui  bylighs  and  crys. 
 For  all  our  Arms  and  ftrcngth  our  Foes  will  us  furprife 
 
 9  For  ^S'pmV  is  the  caufe  eificient. 
 
 Of  all  our  frajerj  that  to  Heaven  afcend ; 
 Though  Faithheiat  InternaH hiftniment. 
 By  which  wf  alj  thii)[^s  ask,  do  apprehend  : 
 
 With  Faith  and  Spirit,  Prayer  Heaven  doth  rend. 
 And  whatfocver  fhc  in  Ci^riti  his  N?.me 
 Doth  asii,  the  Father  down  to  us  will  lend  : 
 This  "pagans  faw  (though  otherwife  too  blame) 
 That  Chriftians  lAOihing  beg  but  they  obtain  the  fame. 
 
 10  AllBlefliijgsfpirituailandtemporall 
 Publike  and  private,  for  our  (elves  and  Friends ; 
 All  that  in  this  life  or  a  better  fall 
 
 To  us  almighty  God  tor  Prayer  fends  ; 
 
 When  Heav'n  is  (hut  up  that  no  dew  dcfcends^'; 
 If  we  for  fake  our.llns  and  pray  for  rain. 
 The  Heav'n  on  us  abundant  (bowers  fpends ; 
 Though  Foes  us  captive  from  our  Cities  train. 
 Yet  Prayer  makes  us  free,  and  brings  us  home  again. 
 
 1 1  If  Dearth,  Drowth,Peftilence  be  in  the  Land 
 Or  Cities  be  befiegM  by  enemies,  . 
 
 Then  if  the  caufe  thereof  we  underftand 
 Our  fins,  And  feek  by  Prayer  remedy. 
 God  will  be  mcreifull  accordingly  • 
 Yea,  if  a  Stranger  of  an  Heathen.Nation,, 
 Do  call  on  God  by  Prayer  heartily ; 
 And  of  his  life  do  feek  a  Reformation, 
 iis  Prayer  (hall  be  heard  by  Chriii  his  mediation 
 
 J  2  Thus 
 
^'  Of  rrajer.  241 
 
 12  Thus  'Prayer  h  for  all  thihgs  profitable, 
 If  her  true  ob  jed  flie  do  never  mifle ; 
 One  God,  who  gracious,  willing  is  and  able. 
 And  of  oiir  Heart  the  only  Searcher  i$ ; 
 
 All  things  that  are  in  Heav'n  and  Earth  are  his,^ 
 We  muft  no  perfon  in  the  Deity 
 Omir,  whcnas  we  pray  to  him  for  BlifTe  : 
 All  works  externall,  in  the  Trinity 
 Are  one,  though  their  internall  hare  variety. 
 
 1 3  Divincft  Pater-nofier  I  whofe  one  Word, 
 In  it  more  heav'nly  matter  doth  contain ;    ' 
 Then  one  whole  hours  babling  can  afford. 
 Sudden  abortives  of  an  idle  brain  : 
 
 With  tedious  turnings,  repetitions  vain. 
 Out  tumbling  all  that  in  their  ftomack  lies. 
 Which  often  go  beyond  this  Prayers  ftrain. 
 As  if  they  were  more  fervent  or  more  wife. 
 Then  he  that  for  our  fatttrn  did  it  firft  devife- 
 
 14  Pure  Prayer  made  by  ferious  meditation^ 
 Or  by  this  holy  pattern  rightly  pen'd ; 
 Brief  fpiritual,  fublime  ejaculation. 
 With  fervent  Fury  doth  to  Heav'n  afcend. 
 
 And  to  the  mark  like  fwiftcft  arrow  tend  : 
 God  is  in  Heav'n,  thou  kneeleft  on  the  ground. 
 To  him  therefore  no  rafli  pjetitiohs  fend ; 
 Therein  let  matter  more  then  U'c;^^^'  abound. 
 And  inward/^/?/  d^nd  groans  then  outward  plaints  and  found^ 
 
 1 5  But  Prayer^  though  by  thy  two  mighty  wings 
 Of  Love  and  Meek^efe  thou  to  Heaven  canft  fore^ 
 And  come  in  prefencc  of  the  Ki-^ig  of  Kings, 
 
 By  pardoning  wrongs,  and  giving  to  the  poor  ; 
 
 Prefume  not  on  thy  merits  ere  the  more  : 
 That  Brightneflc  who  doth  fit  upon  the  Theone, 
 Angels  not  able  are  to  ftand  before ; 
 Alas  how  dar'ft  thou  then  there  ftand  alone, 
 ^'ithQulih^  mediaticn  ohh^  BUj  One  f 
 
 R  16  Like 
 
14Z  VT  rraycr, 
 
 1 0  Like  birdlime  merits  fo  thy  wings  bcfmcar^ 
 
 That  thou  not  able  art  to  take  thy  flight 
 
 Above  the  Firmamcac,  or  to  come  near 
 
 That  ever-fhining  Lamp  of  Heav'niy  Ligbr ; 
 Which  ought  thy  Prayers  to  dircd:  aright 
 
 In  Kmwledge,  -J^leekriejfe^  and  HHmilitjf, 
 
 By  which  we  feel  and  have  an  inward  fight 
 
 OfourunworthinelTeandmirery,  . 
 And  feck  elfewhcrc  for  worth  and  true  felicity. 
 
 17  Ev'n  to  that  livelj  Fountain  of  the  L^.mb.  \ 
 \\  hich  is  a  deep  Well,  wondroiHly  profound,  \ 
 From  which  by  Trdjer,  breaking  up  che  dam, 
 
 We  draw  up  waters  \^hich  do  there  abound ; 
 
 The  depth  of  this  rich  Weil,  no  Grace  can  foufid, 
 But  fervent  Prayer  whenas  She  doth  defire 
 To  cool  her  thiril  with  waters  therein  found. 
 Wherewith  if  once  wc  cool  our  thirit,  like  Hre, 
 The  more  a-e  drink  thereof,  the  hotter 'j»  our  defire. 
 
 18  An  Oxes  lowing,  barking  of  a  Dog, 
 Grunting  of  Swine  doth  more  the  Lord  deli^^hr ; 
 Then  Prayers  which  the  worla  and  Ficfn  fo  c\*^g^ 
 They  come  not  from  us  with  an  Heart  and  Sprite, 
 
 And  as  no  falvc  or  medicine  hath  might. 
 To  heal  the  wound  which  Iron  doth  contain  : 
 So  "Prayer  never  profiteth  tl^at  wight,  * 
 In  whom  Hypocrific  or  guile  remain  ; 
 For  thefc  ilill  felter  deeper  to  the  Patients  pain. 
 
 19  ^^od  is  our  Souls  Phyfician,  and  knows  beft 
 What  for  her  ficknefTe  is  beft  remedy  ; 
 
 And  therefore  when  we  ncedfull  things  requeft 
 Of  him  for  this  oar  lives  neceility. 
 
 He  better  then  his  Patient  can  defcry 
 What  is  moft  fit  to  keep  him  from  che  grave, 
 And  cure  him  of  his  fpirituall  malady, 
 W'-.ei  efore  when  we  receive  not  what  wc  crave, 
 \Vc  >iK>w  Ghntl  bette;-  knows  then  we  what  need  we  have. 
 •^      -  20  Gods 
 
of  Prayer.  MS 
 
 20  Gods  pvorii^s  the  Swcrd  whereby  our  Lof  d  doth  fvvay 
 And  rules  his  Church  here  as  he  is  a  King,    - 
 
 As  Prkfi  he  offers  praifes^  and  doth  pray  • 
 As  Prophet  he  glad  tidmgs  us  doth  bring, 
 
 Moft  wifely  teaching  and  admonifhing : 
 Thus  nAaronAikc  to  God  he  doth  {)refent 
 Our  fraycrsy  fraifes,  tithes  and  off^erhg, 
 (For  AaronsO?t\ct  Chnfts  did  reprelent) 
 And  makes  them  give  to  God  an  acceptable  fent. 
 
 2 1  Prayer  is  mans  hefifenfe^  the  Attgelsjoy, 
 The  devils  torture y  Gods  fweetfacrifice^       © 
 We  by  her  means  all  bleffings  here  enjoy, 
 -By  prayer  we  obtain  here  to  be  wife ; 
 
 By  prayer  with  th' Almighty  we  advife. 
 By  reading  he  doth  anfwer  us  again  ; 
 But  our  Lip'Uhour  he  doth  all  defpife, 
 Ah  what  do  then  thofc  fimple  people  gain 
 Which  in  a  tongue  unknown  doe  mutter  praiers  vain? 
 
 22  Oh  !  when  the  Spirit  with  underftanding  praies,  > 
 And  ev*n  the  Heart  with  fighs  and  groans  up  fends 
 To  him  that  willing,  able  is  alwaies 
 
 Us  from  Hell,  Death  and  danger  to  defend  : 
 
 Then  as  a  ^nllet  doth  the  welkin  rend. 
 Blown  with  the  force  of  Powder  and  of  Fire ;        -  ■^' 
 So  doth  our  T>rayers  up  to  Heav'n  afcend. 
 By  Zeal  and  Force  of  fpirituall  deiire, 
 Where  they  of  God  obtain  all  things  they  cart  require. 
 
 23  Mo[es  ^gainft  Amalec  doth  more  prevail 
 By  Prayer  and  by  holding  up  hts  hands. 
 Then  mighty  fqfuah,  though  he  doth  affail 
 Them  with  his  ftrong  and  moft  feleded  bands  : 
 
 At  Jofuahs  (hort  fweet  prayer  the  Sun  lliii  ftands. 
 Till  he^'s  avenged  of  his  enemies ; 
 Eltjha  all  the  Hoft  of  God  commands 
 Him  to  relieve  in  his  neceffities, 
 Ev'n  Fiery  Horfe  and  Charrets  keep  him  where  he  lies. 
 
 R  2  24  Prayer 
 
244  Of  Prayer. 
 
 24  Prayer  is  able  by  plain  rtrength  to  wrinj^ 
 From  hand-hreadth  Cloud  an  Ocean  o(  R^ir  ; 
 And  Captives  out  oi Babylon  to  bring. 
 To  worfhip  in  ferufalem  a^ain  : 
 
 The  An^el  ftrivM  with  facol?  but  in  vain ; 
 Without  a  Blerting  he  will  nor  uniofe ; 
 Senacharihs  whole  Hoft  was  fpoil'd  and  flain, 
 By  Hc^ektA's  Prayer:  when  we  clr.fe 
 With  God  by  Prayer  we  oor  holds  nidft  never  loofe. 
 
 25  The  Rums-horns,  Trumfets,  which  fevcn  Priefts  did  blow. 
 Moft  livel^^do  ftrong  Prayer  rcprefent ; 
 
 Which  with  the  peoples  fhout  did  overthrow 
 Proud  wals  of  jerichoy  to  aftonifhmcnt 
 
 Of  all  the  wicked  that  therein  are  pent : 
 Tins  was  the  Mufick  Aarons  fons  d}.d  found 
 With  Trumpets,  when  to  war  the  people  went ; 
 When  Daniel  in  Lyons  Den  was  found, 
 Ticxit  Prayer  from  their  jaws  him  kept  both  fafe  and  found. 
 
 26  'Tis  not  our  words  God  looks  on ,  but  the  nsinde ; 
 Not  to  the  place  biut  to  the  true  ircent. 
 
 In  dungeon  Jeremy  did  comfort  finde ; 
 And  ']ol?  upon  the  dunghill  takes  content  •, 
 
 Three  Children  in  the  fiery  Fornace  pent. 
 Are  heard,  wljen  Praifes  they  to  God  do  fing  .- 
 The  Thief  from  Crbj[e  as  grateful!  Prayers  fcnr. 
 As  from  his  Temple  Solomon  the  King, 
 Th^P^ermius  Cell  may  oft  as  loud  ss  Stetfle  ring. 
 
 27  Not  that  from  pub  like  prajer  I  purloin. 
 Of  Vvhich  Cods  hepife  hath  her  denomination  ; 
 W'lere  Priefts  and.  peoples  hearts  and  voices.joyn. 
 To  tear  the  skjes  with  cries  and  fupplication  ; 
 
 ■  Oh  Force  united  of  a  Congrer,ation  ! 
 In  Gods  own  hoi^fe  ofT'rayer  gathered. 
 For  Prdfcy  Petition,  or  for  Deprecation, 
 God  nought  denieth  fo  petitioned. 
 And  we  thus  tr  om  all  evil  are  delivered. 
 
 28  When 
 
of  Trayer.  14$ 
 
 28  When  Peter  flept  with  chains  in  prifon  bound. 
 On  each  fide  Souldicrs,  Keepers  at  the  dore. 
 
 The  Church  doth  pray  though  he  flecp  faft  and  found, 
 And  God  hint  loofcd  from  his  chains  therefore : 
 
 And  when  the  Angel  lighteth  him  before. 
 The  Iron  Gate  opes  of  his  own  accord  : 
 Pauls /Duvids,  Samuels,  a  thoufand  mo'-e 
 O^ Prayers,  you  may  iinde  upon  record. 
 All  which  may  feem  to  binde  to  th'T'eacc  our  angry  Lord. 
 
 29  I  all  conclude  with  his  moft  heav'nly  one, 
 Who  did  in  daies  of  his  Humility, 
 ^Nilh^otidefl  cries  in  fpirit  fi^h  and  groan  ^ 
 For  Freedom  of  that  dire  calamity. 
 Which  came  on  him  for  our  Iniquity : 
 And  though  he  Legions  could  of  Angels  call. 
 To  fave  him  from  inhumane  cruelty. 
 
 Yet  Lamb- like  did  before  his  Shearer  fall. 
 Submitting  to  his  Fathers  will  and  plcafurc  all- 
 
 3  o  Without  us,  God  will  nothing  for  us  do. 
 We  therefore  muft  prepare  to  fight  alway ; 
 And  without  God  we  cannot  ftand  nor  go. 
 And  therefore  mull:  be  alwaies  fwift  to  pray ; 
 
 If  thefe  fo  pray'd  when  Foes  did  them  affay. 
 When  FUJh  and  ^ loud  with  Flefti  and  Bloud  did  fight ; 
 What  (hall  we  in  this  dangerous  great  affray. 
 When  we  encounter  with  fpirituall  might. 
 
 Which  in  his  Agony  did  Chrift  our  Head  affright ! 
 
 3  I   But  ah  1  we  at  our  firft  converfion  pray 
 Moft  fervently  oft  for  the  novelty. 
 But  after  negligent,  cold  fleeping  fay 
 Our  Pater  nofter  in  fecurity  : 
 
 Thou  fleep'ft  fecure,  but  ah  !  thine  Enemy 
 Doth  watch  thee  then  ev'n  napping  to  furprife, 
 We  then  to  God  with  all  our  hearts  do  cry, 
 Whenas  no  thoughts  withdraw  us  otherwife ; 
 
 Alas !  but  few  or  none  pray  often  in  this  wife. 
 
 R  ?  ;2  0hl 
 
%^6  Of  Trayer. 
 
 32  Oh  !  that  a  man  of  bafe  and  filthy  mold. 
 Should  dare  fall  down  before  Gods  glorious  Throne, 
 His  wants  and  imperfeftions  to  unfold, 
 And  have  his  heart  like  ISlabals  dead  as  done ; 
 
 When  (i/fngels  that  come  near  that  Holy  One, 
 Are  fiiin  their  face  to  cover  with  their  wings  ; 
 So  bright  his  glorious  Majefty  hath  fhown. 
 Who  is  the  Lord  of  Lords  and  X/V/f  of  Kings  y 
 
 The  fearcher  of  our  reins  and  trier  of  all  things. 
 
 3  3  When  I  no  longer  able  am  to  fight. 
 
 Like  Mofes  let  me  lift  up  hands  and  fray 
 
 Againft  the  invifible  Amalekite,  m 
 
 That  fpiritually  doth  feek  my  foul  to  flay  : 
 
 When  I  with  pAith  two  words,  Onr  Father,  fay  ; 
 
 I  pardon  beg  forSin,^  Freedom  from  pain ; 
 
 Gods  Beir  and  Son,  Chrijh  Brother,  I  that  day 
 
 Am  made,  and  gifts  of  holj  Ghofl  do  gain. 
 Then  let  me  never  mumble  over  words  in  vain- 
 
 34  But  I  confefTe,  though  I  do  often  prove. 
 There  is  no  comfort  like  this  one,  to  fraj^ 
 That  is  beftowM  on  man  from  Heav'n  above, 
 Yet  finde  I  Satan  preft  and  bufie  ay. 
 
 Me  in  this  holy  duty  to  aflay. 
 By  wandring  thoughts  and  vain  imaginations, 
 W^hich  oft  do  leade  my  minde  fo  far  aftray, 
 I  am  bereavM  of  Heav'nly  cogitations, 
 
 And  change  for  idle  faneies  holy  meditations. 
 
 3  5  But  Trajer  doth  fo  pleafe  my  Mufes  ftrain. 
 
 That  I  omitred  have  of  Praife  to  fing, 
 
 The  Sacrifice  we  offer  here  again. 
 
 For  all  the  Botinty  of  our  heavenly  King  : 
 I  liken  her  to  Trayers  either  wing, 
 
 'Forgiving  "Wrongs,  and  jUtks  nnto  the  f  cor 
 
 Our  holy  lively  fpirituall  Offering,  | 
 
 Of  Body,  Soui,  Heart,  Tongue,  and  all  our  ftore. 
 With  true  Obedience  to  God  for  evermore. 
 
 36Whiift 
 
VT  I'rayer.  ZOfTj 
 
 2, 6  Whilft  here  of  'Benefits  no  end  we  finde. 
 
 How  (hould  we  ever  make  an  end  ofpyaife ; 
 
 Oh  happy  Bands  I  that  us  for  ever  binde, 
 
 Ev'n  when  our  Souls  and  Bodies  Chrift  (hall  raife. 
 Oar  praife  (hall  be  eternall  like  our  daics : 
 •    He  that  his  time'in  fr^ife  and  hymns  would  fpcnd, 
 
 I  him  refer  to  Davids  heav'nly  Laycs, 
 
 Divinely  by  the  holy  Spirit  pend. 
 My  Mufc  now  out  of  breath  cannot  this  Mount  afccnd. 
 
 5  7  Oh  let  my  voice  and  heart  together  joyn  ! 
 God  of  the  lips  accepts  not,  but  the  heart ; 
 Grant  that  my  life  in  HoIinelTe  may  (hine. 
 That  Confcience  may  ever  bear  a  part  ;  .  • 
 
 Prefumptuous  man  !  that  dar'ft  thy  Maker  thwart. 
 To  pour  out  fond  'petitions  bafe  and  vain,' 
 When  thou  confid*reft  before  whom  thou  art. 
 Him  thac  doth  all  lewd  Ijing  lips  difdain. 
 
 And  Hypocrites  rewarded!  with  infernall  pain. 
 
 5  8  If  Prayer  be  right,  pure,  (Incere  and  meek ; 
 
 It  never  empty  (hall  return  again ;. 
 
 For  God  will  either  grant  us  what  we  feek. 
 
 Or  give  us  that  (hail  be  our  greater  gain  : 
 
 Aflne  heart,  mine  heart  Lo;  ^^-^Jbth  rejojce  amain. 
 
 Ay  in  thine  Houfe  of  Pr^jfr  to  itide ; 
 
 Where  Swallows  build,  and  Sparrows  are  foil  faiii 
 
 To  lay  their  young  ones  by  thine  Altars  fide : 
 Me  never  iet  the  Spirit  of  Trajer  be  deni'd. 
 
 3  9  But  (ince  I  ought  to  pray  continually. 
 How  (liould  my  Pen  oi  Prayer  make  an  end  ? 
 My  Saviour  pr^j/w^  on  the  CrofTe  did  die ; 
 With  Prayer  Steven  his  Soul  to  Heav'n  did  fend. 
 
 But  I  began  with  Prayer,  let  me  end 
 With  Praifes  to  the  Horn  of  my  Salvation, 
 Who  fure  I  hope  his  blelTed  SpWit  did  fend, 
 
 S.o  guide  me  in  this  holy  Mec'.lv^lon^  (  ration, 
 
 ith  fills  my  Tongue  with  Praife,  and  Heart  with  Admi- 
 
Five  Moral  Meditations: 
 
 OF 
 
 i.  Concordund  F?»c'9^ 
 2.  Cbaftity, 
 
 ^.Counefy, 
 5,  Gravity o 
 
 Meditation    I. 
 
 of  Fiace  dnd  Concord, 
 
 '\^tn?it^JVorldsgTttt  Creator  idi^iontd. 
 This  little  Manjion  for  our  Souls  of  Clay : 
 Man  in  his  Image  he  fo  ordered. 
 He  had  boch  }Vill  and  Power  to  obay : 
 Thus  this  Iwect  concord  might  hare  iafle^l  ay , 
 If  to  his  Power,  had  been  joyn'd  his  TVlll^ 
 Which  failing  in  Obedience  to  flay, 
 .  He^r^i^f/-/7^P^C^r6',whereby  healldidtiU  . 
 
 With  Fury,  Wars.'and  Strifes,  which  do  cohtinu  ftiU, 
 
 2  Thuf  by  mans  wilfull  fault,  Hofiility 
 j    Between  him  and  his  Maker  firfl:  began. 
 Such  breach  hath  Sin  made  with  the  Dsitj^ 
 As  reconcile,  not  all  the  creatures  can  ; 
 
 Befides,  they  all  are  foes  become  to  man. 
 For  that  he  'gainfl:  their  Alaker  did  rebeil ; 
 Poor  <iXdam.  guilty,  naked,  wa  and  wan, 
 .  The  Noife  of  God  to  covert  doth  compell : 
 'A  guilty  Co/t/^/fWff  i$  more  terrible  than  Hell-. 
 
 A  a  ^  t^y^d'dm 
 
3  6i  Of  Pcdce  and  Concord.  ] 
 
 3  Adam  ev'n  then  did  feel  a  double  p^/«, 
 One  pain  of  Lofs^  another  pain  of  Senfc 
 And  now  againft  hini  Battails  all  maintain, 
 Heavn^  Helly  IVorldy  Creatures,  Wife  and  Confcience, 
 
 Are  out  with  him  for  Difobedience  ; 
 Till  God,  who  firfl:  eleded  Man  in  Love, 
 For  mercies  fake,  now  by  Obedience^ 
 Trom  him  doth  ^ain  of  Lofs,  and  Senfe  remove. 
 And  brings  to  endlefs  feace^  and  refl^  in  heav'n  above, 
 
 4  Of  wondrous  vain  is  this  Pearl  o^  Peace, 
 Which  t©  redeem  the  Lord  of  Life  was  fold, 
 Moft  fweet  peace-coring ;  when  for  our  releafe 
 Ciorifi^s  precious  bioud  was  as  a  ranfom  told. 
 
 Not  that  we  heer  fnculd  ^eace  and  quarter  hold 
 With  Hell,  World,  Lufi:,  tru  Peace's  mortall  foes  : 
 Such  Peace  doth  us  in  dang'rous  v/ars  infold  : 
 Except  we  thcfe  moil  valiantly  oppofe, 
 tor  feeming  Peace  on  earth,  we  doe  the  heav'nly  lofe, 
 
 5  Therefore  the  great  Peace-maker  did  not  come 
 To  fend  us  Peace  on  earth,  but  Swords  and  Strife  ; 
 Debate  betwixt  the  lather  and  the  Sonn, 
 Mother  and  Daughter,  Husband  and  the  Wife  : 
 
 Perpctuall  warfare  is  a  Chriftians  life. 
 
 With  Apms  and  W^eapons,  he  muft  fortifie 
 
 Againft  his  foes,  which  will  aflail  him  rife : 
 
 Right  end  of  Warxs  and  all  hofiilitj^ 
 
 Is  gain  of  happy  Teace^  and  fweet  tranqttillitj. 
 
 <^    Thou,  that  before,  through  wars  and  dread  aflfray^ 
 Haft  for  us  entered  on  tru  Peace  and  Reft, 
 By  thine  own  bloody  wounds  us  op'ning  way. 
 And  pains,  wherewith  thy  foes  did  thee  infeft ; 
 
 Infpire  fweet  hcav'nly  peace  into  my  brcft. 
 That  thence,  as  from  a  Ljmbickj^zj  diflill 
 Sweet  drops  o^ peace,  on  hearts  that  arc  oppreft. 
 And  with  tru  love  of  heav'nly/^f^c^'  fo  fill. 
 
 As  feeling  her  fweet  Good,  they  never  faint  for  ill. 
 
 Peace 
 
of  Teace  And  Concord  -. 
 
 7  Peace  may  be  callM  the  minde' s  ferenltj , 
 The  co;7(7or^of  th'afipcdions  and  the  -will 
 The  Band  of  love,  the  heart' sfimpHcitj, 
 
 The  Soul's  chief e  good:,  the  confcience  free  from  ill ; 
 
 Thus  is  ihtQ  (imply  :  but  if  fo  you  will 
 Difccrn  her  nature  plainer  •  we  divide 
 Her  by  the  friends,  to  whom  (he  bears  good  will, 
 Thus  we  in  Peace  with  God  doe  firfc  abide. 
 Next,  with  our  felves,  and  laft,  with  all  the  world  befiie; 
 
 8  And  yet  this  peace  with  God, our  felves,and  men. 
 Is  but  one,  and  the  fame  tru  hcav'nly  peace ; 
 That  happy  peace  we  have  with  God,is  when 
 We  freed  by  Faith,  are  juflifide  o^ Grace : 
 
 Tru  inward  ^f^cf  then  in  our  hearts  hath  place 
 When  06  our  confciences  e.xcufe  within  : 
 Then  peace  with  men  we  rightly  doe  embrace. 
 When  to  hzwQ peace  wirh  all  men  we  begin  : 
 Thus  have  wtpaece  with  lews^  and  Turkj^vit  hate  their  \ 
 
 9  Eternally  iftward^^nd  externall  peace, 
 Eternall  Peace  is  that  with  God  alone. 
 From  which  our  inward  Life  hath  an  increafe : 
 The  third's  the  peace  we  have  with  ev'ry  one ; 
 
 No  farther  yet  than  it  concerns  our  own  ; 
 For  when  we  wrongM  or  injuri'd  behold 
 Thofe,  that  with  us  in  godly  League  are  grown. 
 We  break  our  League,  x^ peace  with  them  we  hold. 
 For  by  fuch  worldly  peace  our  love  to  God  grows  cofd. 
 
 10  God  is  the  Author^C^r//?  the  King  of  Peace, 
 The  Seeds  o^ peace  are  by  the  Spirit  iown. 
 Which,  watered  by  his  Servants  heer,  increafe 
 Till  they  into  abundant  fruits  are  grown. 
 
 How  bcautifull  the  feet  of  them  doe  fhown 
 That  Peace's  joyful!  tidings  to  us  bring  I 
 This  Pearl  of  Peace,  v/herc  ever  it  is  known, 
 Doth  pafs  all  underfianding ;  Chrifi'our  King 
 i)id  hpnour  Peace  on  earth  with  his  fwcct  pubiifhing. 
 
3  ^  Of  Peace  aud  Concord 
 
 1 1  Health,  Quiet,  happincfle,  Profperity, 
 All  Concord,  Liberty,  and  good  Succefs, 
 Te^ce  to  us  brings,  with  rnnds-tranqiiillity  - 
 And  frees  oi  rS  julcs  from  difmall  heavincls  : 
 
 Itis  thedoor  to  invtard  happinefs, 
 Tru  inward  Peace  our  hearts  doth  mollify, 
 Ani  make  like  Wax,  that  foj  on  them  may  prcfs 
 Tht privy  Seal ;  whereby,  afTurediy, 
 We  fealcd  arc  to  live  with  God  eternally. 
 
 1 2  1  he  Gentiles  that  far  off.  and  Grangers  were. 
 Peace  by  Chrifts  precious  blood  now  maketh  nic 
 For  he's  our  ^f^r<',w hereby  ail  one  we  are: 
 
 tor  fo  all  fulnefTe  of  Divinity 
 Inhabited  in's  Body  really  ; 
 That  on  the  CrolTc  by  his  moft  precious  blood. 
 He  all  in  Heav'n  and  Earth  did  pacifie  : 
 Ahjffe  profound,  not  to  be  underftooii, 
 i  .uc  where  fweet  inward  Peace  ofConfcienjee  makes  it  gooi 
 
 I  3    For  in  the  Hcs.rt  and  Confcience  \^  the  feat 
 
 Of  all  the  Peace^  that  mortals  can  befall : 
 
 Alas!  what  bootes  it,though  om^eace  fecm  great 
 
 Abroad,  if  that  within  we  nourifli  iliali 
 Hate,  Diffidence,  Contencions,  Envy,  Gall, 
 
 Without  this  inward p^^r^  and  hoUnefs, 
 
 We  may  not  hope  to  fee  the  Lord  at  all, 
 
 Peace^maksrs  only  fbali  have  happinelj, 
 Tru  feace  on  Earth  the  carneft  is  of  heav'nly  Blefs. 
 
 14   Sweet  Toycc  o^ peace ^  than  which  we  nothing lic*r 
 
 In  hcav'n  or  earth  more  glad  and  acceptable. 
 
 What  more  deUghtfuU  can  to  us  appear  ? 
 
 What  here  than  to  poffefs  more  profitable  ? 
 As  fp'ric  of  man  to  quicken  is  not  able 
 
 The  members,  vf\tho\xi peace  and  unity  ; 
 
 So  never  ftand  the  Churches  members  ftablfj 
 
 Unlefs  fweet  inward  peaci  them  vivify, 
 And  cauic  them  all  to  live  Inptacf  an4  (imitj\ 
 
k 
 
 of  Peaet  and  Conecrd  5 1^ 
 
 15  Infcpirabie  friends  are  i?t^kfoi//«f/jr. 
 And  Peace  ;  they  one  another  meet  and  kifs : 
 Except  thou  lufiice  love,  thou  doll  profcfs 
 
 la  vain  thy  love  to  feace :  Him  that  doth  mifs 
 
 Tru  love  to  lufiice, peace  will  never  blifs  : 
 What  more  than  Peace  do  all  mankinde  admire  ? 
 But  RightCDufociTs  to  them  a  flrangcr  is : 
 Sweet  Fruits  of  Peace  all  earneftly  require. 
 But  to  the  works  of  lufiice  no  man  hath  defirc. 
 
 16  With  peace  are  always  Mercy,  Grace,  and  Z#^'r, 
 Faith,  Meeknefs,  HumhUnefs,  Joj,  Holinefs, 
 Except  thefe  Graces  her  companions  prove, 
 She*s  but  a  feeming  quiet  Ladnefs, 
 
 Ev'n  ftupiftde  with  worldly  happinefs  : 
 Like  dreams  and  flumbers,  in  a  morning  fayr. 
 Which  itti  our  fantafics  with  Teeming  blcfs. 
 But  when  we  wake,  lo,  nothing  but  the  Ayr, 
 Our  golden  hopes  arc  flown,  we  left  in  more  Dclpayr^ 
 
 17  This  is  a  feeming  peace  :  there  is  a  feign' d. 
 Which  Wolves  do  in  Sheeps  clothing  oft  propound : 
 Ah  I  many  Souls  by  fuch  fzKe peace  are  train'd. 
 
 To  build  th6r  peace  upon  uncertain  ground. 
 
 Such  femblancc  make,  as  if  there  did  abound 
 With  thcWfjoj,  peace,  truth,  zndfincerity ; 
 But  feek,  and  nothing  lefs  with  them  is  found. 
 Vain  outward  ^lorj,  health,  frofferitj. 
 If  all  their  ay  m  and  end,  not  mindes  Tranquility* 
 
 1 8  Curfl  be  their  Union,  curfcd  is  their  peace  t 
 For  by  their  concord,  plots  and  umtj, 
 
 Tru  lufiice  hindrcd  is,  in  her  incrcafc, 
 for  thus  they  fofter  all  iniquity. 
 
 Thefe  make  a  (hew  of  peace,  but  come  to  try 
 Them  by  their  adions,  they  arc  inftmmcnts 
 Of  Wars^Rebtllion^Treafons^ Cruelties ; 
 Like  Simeon^  Levi^  cov*ring  their  intents, 
 J/Vith  cnaking  Pr^filius^  and  fcwing  Churches  Rcatc 
 
Ui  reaceanaL^oncora 
 
 Vourc  mortall  enemies  there  arc  to  peace^ 
 
 \  fc  avarice 3  pale  envie ,wrath,  and  pride  : 
 
 ■  "rom  us  we  for  ever  banifh  thcfe, 
 . .  e  may  in  happy  peace  for  ay  abide  : 
 
 Thefe  two  words, Mine  and  Thine  do  more  divide 
 The  minds  oH^rethren,  neighbors ^priefts,  and Jlock,,^ 
 Than  all  that  you  can  reckon  me  belide : 
 Thefe  two  the  bands  of  v^w^/y  unlock. 
 And  all  the  world  together  in  a  fury  fliock 
 
 :  o  Ev'n  as  mans  hdy^  whofc  juft  temperature 
 
 Confins  oihum-td,  frigid,  hot  and  drjy 
 
 So  long  as  they  in  Concord  do  indure. 
 
 Doth  thrive  and  grow  :  but  if  ambitioufly 
 They  ftrive  amongfl:  themfelves  for  foveraignty, 
 
 Tlicir  civill  breach  doth  caufe  Deaths  exccucion. 
 
 So  tis  m  CitjjChurchy  or  family. 
 
 Sweet  Peace  and  Concord  breed  found  conflitution ; 
 But  En.vy/Difccrd^  Fride^  a  fcarfull  diifolucion. 
 
 21  And  as  in  ^^azick  divers  difTring  Sounds, 
 
 By  Cotic-crd  make  one  plcafant  Harmoniey 
 
 But  he  that  iirams  above  the  reil,  confounds 
 
 His  own,  and  all  the  others  melody  : 
 So  it  befallerh  each  Society^ 
 
 So  long  as  they  in  Concorddo  remain, 
 
 They  live  in  plenty,  eafe,  profperity : 
 
 But  if  they  jarr  for  Envy,  Pride,  or  Gain, 
 They  from  their  quiet  fi:ate  do  tumble  down  amain^ 
 
 2  2  As  many  weak  fl:icks,  in  one  faggot  bound. 
 No  ftrength  of  man  e're  able  is  to  break. 
 Which  if  they  be  alone  and  (ingle  found, 
 Would  feem  but  eaiie  to  a  man  that's  weak ; 
 
 The  fame  we  may  o^  Peace  and  Concord  fpeak, 
 Whiifl  they  tru  Subieds  hearts  in  one  do  bind. 
 No  forrain  Power  on  them  their  fpite  can  wreak. 
 But  if  with  jarres  it  them  dif-joyn'd  doth  find. 
 
 It  breaks  their  ranks,  them  chafing  like  a  fearful!  Hind, 
 
 23  Concord 
 
Of  TeAce  Ana  Concord  -^^j 
 
 23  Concord  and  Peace  be  like  a  brazen  wall. 
 No  Fort's  fo  ftrong  as  vertuous  minds  combinM  ; 
 But  as  a  ftraight  and  crooked  picce,by  all 
 The  workmans  skill,  cannot  in  one  be  joynM, 
 
 So  fares  it  with  a  good  and  wicked  mind ; 
 In  wicked  nature  fraught  with  guile  and  fpight, 
 Tru  Peace  and  Concordihon  fhak  never  find  :  , 
 For  as  good  minds  great  pleafure  take  in  right 
 
 So  bafe  malicious  hearts,  in  doing  wrong,  delight. 
 
 -24  The  hungry  Fox^  purfuing  hard  his  prey, 
 By  chance  upon  a  fleeping  Snake  doth  tread ; 
 For  which,  (lie  V/Totb,  deferres  not  long  his  pay. 
 But  with  fling  taught  him  to  take  better  heed  ; 
 Thus  dang'roufly  both  wounded  arc  indeed. 
 And  both  to  wounds  do  Phyficks  help  apply^ 
 Which  inwardly  do  rankle  more  than  bleed. 
 Yet  both  by  Leeches  skill  and  Surgery  : 
 
 For  bodies  griefe,  not  minds,  do  find  a  remedy 
 
 25  Many  years  after,  this  ma  licious  Smku 
 Who  flill  revenge  doth  harbour  in  her  brefl-. 
 Meeting  the  Fox^  him  fairly  thus  befpake  : 
 Ah  !  how  great  forrow  doth  my  heart  molefl 
 
 That  we  (hould  one  another  thus  infefl : 
 For  fince  the  time  that  firfl  began  our  broy I, 
 No  greater  care  within  mine  heart  doth  refl. 
 But  how  our  loves  again  to  reconcile, 
 (Thus  would  7nalicioHs  Sfjaks  the  crafty  Fox  beguile 
 
 26  Now  if  you  pleafe,  let  us  all  injuries 
 Forget,  and  as  we  ought,  tru  Peace  embrace  ; 
 
 For  Pf^r^  and  C7(>;?ror3  all  good  things  fupplies 
 To  mortals,  of  what-ever  rank  or  place : 
 What  thing  more  pleafmg,  fwect  and  good  than  Grace? 
 She  all  conferves,  keeps  all  things  fafe  and  found. 
 Makes  great  increafe  of  Fruit  in  little  fpace. 
 In  pleafure,  wealth  and  eafc  (he  doth  abound, 
 Yea  all  the  good  that  one  can  wifh ,  in  her  is  found. 
 
 Aa  4  27  She 
 
of  Pe0ce  ffffd  Coffcord  3  p 
 
 She  Is  the  cherifherand  nurfc  of  Life, 
 She  breeds,  feeds,  nourifheth,  gives  cducacion. 
 When  all  confounded  are  by  warrcs  and  ftrife. 
 Which  breeds  Corruption  :  Peace  brings  Gcner&tloQ« 
 
 Nothing  on  earth  is  of  like  eflimacion. 
 Thus  having  faid,  Ihe  offers  him  to  kifs. 
 And  fay  r  embrace,  according  to  her  fafhion. 
 But  Remld  trufls  her  ne'r  the  more  for  this, 
 W^ho  mofl  malicious,  cruell,  implacable  is: 
 
 -8'  But  thus  replies.  All's  tru  that  thou  haft  faid : 
 
 But  as  tru  fcace  of  all  things  is  the  beft. 
 
 So  fure  of  nothing  more  am  1  afraid 
 
 Ths.nfeigfted peace  :  a  poyfon  neatly  drcft. 
 Which  thou  coneealft  now  boy  ling  in  thy  brcft ; 
 
 And,  with  a  feemingkindnefs,  cruly 
 
 Wouldft  fpill  my  Life,  when  as  I  fear'd  it  leaft : 
 
 No  open  force,  fpite^  or  hofii/iry 
 yo  dangerous  is,  as  feigned  peace  and  ^mirj. 
 
 ip  Th.s  pub liq He,  priv Ate y  health,  fpealth,  dignity, 
 
 All  overthrowes,  when  mofl  we  feem  fecure ; 
 
 No  man  will  truft  an  open  enemy  ; 
 
 And  therefore  ''gainil  his  malice  ftands  more  furc ; 
 When  he  by  fraud  can  him  no  harm  procure : 
 
 But  fuch  fair  painting  words,  and  honefl  fhows, 
 
 Infnare  the  fimple,  inexpert,  and  pure. 
 
 And  into  mifery  and  errour  throws, 
 Then  lie  too  hltpUin-deaiing  from  dijfemhling  knows> 
 
 '{,0  Bur  now  to  thee, that  pence  dofl  fo  commend  : 
 
 1  anfwer.  That  for  reconciliacion  , 
 
 And  thee  imbracing  as  a  faichfull  friend, 
 
 J  nev  er  had  fo  rend  determinacion  : 
 God  fbield  me  from  thy  fly  malicious  nation. 
 
 Thy  gailefull  heart's  as  hoUow  ^s  the  ftnd  ; 
 
 Thou  doubt'itof  Tr/zfJ!?,  I  of  E^fiivccAcitn : 
 
 SMnd  olf :  The  Morall  you  may  undcrfland, 
 y<)\x  have  this  Talc  fr^ra  mc,  but  at  the  icc^nd  h»nd# 
 
of  ft  Act  0nd  Canard  ^  €9 
 
 31  Thus  did  the  Snake  our  mother  Eve  beguile 
 By  bay  ts  of  honor y  kindnefsy  and  amhickn  : 
 But  from  her  ftolc  this  Pearl  of  Peace  the  while^ 
 And  plung'd  her,  and  her  Seed  in  all  perdicion  : 
 
 E're  (ince  by  feign'd  (hews,  and  falfc  apparicion. 
 This  fubtil  Serpents  viperous  progeny, 
 Imbracc  us,  foahAikCy  with  ail  fubmiflion. 
 But  to  the  heart-blood  (lab, us  privily. 
 lie  never  truit  a  bafe  malicious  Enemy:' 
 
 3  2  Of  a  fat  jovmI  Orator  I  read 
 A  pleafant  ftory  ;  who  when  he  afcends 
 Into  a  narrow  Desk  for  T>eace  to  plead. 
 The  People  all  forth  (liouts  and  laughters  fends : 
 
 Thoughts  corps  were  grofs,  his  wit  foon  apprehends 
 Th'  occafion,and  he  thus  them  tclleth  plain. 
 My  wife  at  home  in  bignefs  me  tranfcends. 
 Yet  MS  at  ^eacey  one  bed  can  well  contain, 
 
 At  ods,  woin  this  City  wals  cannot  remain, 
 
 33  But  well  my  Mufe  of  her  digreflion  witcs 
 
 If  rem  Peace  to  Concord^  which  the  Schoyls  define, 
 
 9y€n  union  of  divers  Appetites 
 
 Of  divers  men,  ^ho  in  affeciion  joyn. 
 
 To  Peace,  this  Definicion  they  ailign. 
 To  be  a  concord  in  the  Appetite, 
 fVhich  doth  th*  ajfeBions  but  of  one  combine. 
 In  one  :  I  Ifcace  and  Concord  here  unite. 
 And  of  them,as  but  one  cru  perfedpf^cf  do  write, 
 
 34  All  cruel  wars  and  battels  D^z'j'i  fought. 
 Was  but  to  ftablifh  peace  to  Solomon ; 
 
 That  type  of  happy  peace  who  now  (no  doubt) 
 Reds  in  that  Peace,  which  he  on  earth  begun :    . 
 
 O  bleffed,  joyfull,  happy  Vnion, 
 The  Song  of  pteace  thou  fingeft  of  the  'Bridf, 
 And  that  great  King  of  peace^  her  lovely  One ; 
 When  fitting  at  the  Banquet  by  his  fide. 
 Her  with  liv^feaoi  %%  wish  a  Smmr  Jv:  dgch  hide, 
 
 ^^  Hi*; 
 
370  Of  reace  andioncord^ 
 
 3  5  His  furecteft  Gardens  arc  ©ur  beds  of  Jf^, 
 The  fruits  there  growing,  fvveeteft  fruits  otPeacel 
 The  tunes  which  Birds  there  warble  in  thcfr  brcfl-. 
 Be  fongs  o^ Peace :  there  Spring  doth  never  ceafe. 
 
 But  ZephyrHs  with  deues  blows  full  encreafc. 
 Sweet  l^eace  !  which  makes  the  Turtles  voycc  rcfou"^ 
 Such  Mu/ik,  as  the  heaviefl  heart  can  cafe, 
 For  (lie  her  Notes  doth  to  the  heart  propound. 
 But  none  conceive  the  fwectnefs,  til  they  feci  the  found, 
 
 36  If  J  through  Scriptures  gardens  (houid  you  lead. 
 And  (liew  you  all  that  glorious  Nurcerj 
 Of  fruits  and  flowers  there,  of  Peace  that  breed, 
 i  (liould  you  tyre  with  fwcet  Variety. 
 It  was  the  lad  bequeft  and  Legacy, 
 Our  KtKg  of  Peace  did  his  Apoftles  leave ; 
 Who  made  our  Peace  when  he  on  Crofs  did  die. 
 For  Peace ^  he  bars  and  gates  of  Hell  dotk  cleave, 
 
 And  will  his  in  du  time  to  endlefs;;^^fr  receive. 
 
 -  7  See  his  Apofiels^  Martyrs,  Fathers  all. 
 How  meek  and  lowly  they  on  peace  attend, 
 Refuling  neither  Crofs ^  nor  cHpofQally 
 So  as  they  might  attain  unto  their  end ; 
 
 Sweet  pr^re  on  earth  they  labour  to  defend^ 
 When  they  have  m.ade  their  peace  in  heav'n  above : 
 Who  fcelcs  this  inward  Peace,  feares  not  to  fpcnd 
 Wealth,  Strength,  and  Life,  for  to  maintain  the  love 
 
 P[  thofe,  which  with  them  members  of  one  Body  prove^ 
 
 ;  8  But  wltat  need  I  thee  furnifn  from  without, 
 if  in  thine  hcarc  rlus  inward  peace  thou  find  ; 
 l^\\\s peace  of  Confaence  will  give  (  no  doubt  ) 
 More  Reft  and  comfort  to  thy  Soul  and  Mind, 
 1  han  all  wealthy  pUafHre.glurj  here  aflign'd 
 Unto  the  wicked,  for  their  worldly  reft. 
 ^  weer  peace  cfConfcicttce  !  who  art  not  confin'd 
 To  any  pkafptre  here  on  earth  poffefl-, 
 icrnallj  heavenly  ff^(7(fpQffeflech  all  thy  breft. 
 
 10  Ob: 
 
of  Peace  and  Canard  371 
 
 )  Oh  1  ha  Amy  Mufe  fome  lofty  rapted/r4/«, 
 The  glory  of  this  heav'nly  fcace  to  fing, 
 Which  doth  the  heavtf,  earth,  fea,  ^jfr,. all  maintain,    . 
 By  gentle  government  and  ordering , 
 
 Or  were  (he  able,  on  a  high-ftrain'd  firing, 
 Jo  fing  the  Honour  of  my  Soveraign, 
 'That  grand  Peace-maker,  i?Wr^#«i  peacefull  King, 
 Who  through  the  Chriftian  world  doth  Peace  maintain: 
 lod  gr^nijox  peace  on  earch,  thou  heavnly  peace  mayft  gain 
 
 0  But  ah  !  how  can  my  foul  oppreft  with  Care, 
 And  worldly  tumults,  of  fuch  Glory  ling. 
 Since  quiet  peace  her  felfe  rem  oveth  farr 
 
 From  Difcord,  Strife,  Contencions,  Quarrelling  • 
 
 \    Oh  let  me  under  (hadow  of  thy  wing. 
 
 In  happy  reft  and  Peace  for  ay  abide ; 
 
 So  (hall  I  never  feare  the  malicing 
 
 Of  Envy,  Satan,  Covctize,  or  Pride  : 
 
 ru  inward  peace  was  never  vanquifhed,  though  tride. 
 
 1  Ah  I  thus  I  wiih  for  T^eace^  but  worldly  Care 
 And  troubles  more  and  more  my  mind  opprefs  j 
 Afflictions  heer  and  CrolTes  (hould  prepare. 
 And  fit  a  man  for  peace  and  happinefs. 
 
 But  oft  they  fill  us  more  with  worldlinefs, 
 Yet  fuch  the  nature  is  oUrf^ard  peace^ 
 She  fils  the  heart  of  all  that  her  poffefs. 
 And  ever  as  her  vigour  doth  increafe, 
 lur  worldly  thoughts  and  cares  do  more  &  more  deceafc. 
 
 2  O  King  of  peace  !  grant  me  this  imvzrd  peace 
 Tis  that  for  which  the  Spirit  always  prays,  ' 
 Thit peace  which  bnings  all  Graces  fweet  increafe. 
 And  now  thou  art  to  heav'n  gone,  with  us  Oays.' 
 
 This  Peace,  Hell,  Death,  nor  Tyrants  rage  difmays, 
 Tis  not  fuch  peace  as  world  to  us  doth  give 
 In  Comforts  (he  tranfcends  Sunns  gcntlcllrays. 
 By  her  when  we  in  Life  of  Grace  have  thrive, 
 v^ith  her  wc  ever  fiiall  in  life  ofqiorj  live. 
 
 Thic 
 
", 
 
 A  This  Is  tht peace  which  fcti  our  hcarti  ai  furd   ! 
 As  ^iW  Msunt^  which  no  force  can  remove. 
 This  fedce  it  is  wjfiich  ever  ftiall  endure. 
 If  rooted  in  our  hearts  by  Faith  and  Ltve : 
 
 This  Peace  which  firft  defcends  from  Hcav'n  above. 
 And  doth  our  troubled  Confcicnces  ftill. 
 Which  makes  the  Members  like  the  Head  to  prove. 
 This  is  the  Peace  of  Cjod^  the  which  doth  fill 
 
 3oi\iBeavn^Earth  withPf^rf  ,&  all  men  with  good-will 
 
 44  Now  never  let  my  Soul  enjoy  true  Peace^ 
 If  now  (he  doth  not  more  my  heart  delighc. 
 Than  all  the ^leafure,  glory,  "health,  and  eafi^ 
 Which  here  mens  mindes  to  vamty  invite : 
 
 G$d9f  all  Peace ^  which  haft  me  giv'n  t  light 
 Of  this  moft  rich  invaluable  Treafure, 
 Grant,  I  on  peace  may  fet  my  whole  delight. 
 True  ^MCf  like  love,  which  hath  no  bounds  nor  mcafure 
 
 In  this  I  ly  down  fafe,  and  take  my  refl  and  fUafHtf. 
 
 Me- 
 
.173? 
 
 Meditation    Ifo 
 
 Of  Chafiity. 
 
 THchcav'nly  Steers-man^which  Was  erft my  Guicc 
 Unto  the  Hdv'fs  of  Peace  and  happy  Reft, 
 Where  I  could  wifli  at  Aachar  ay  to  ride. 
 Free  from  Wirldsftormsy  which  mortals  here  mo  left ; 
 
 Doch  now  unto  my  ^bker  Mttfe  fuggcft. 
 The  praife  of  heav'nly  Chafiitj  to  fing, 
 Moft  needfull  Grace  for  tbofe,  in  peace  that  reft  ; 
 For  when  ftie  moft  tranqniUty  doth  bring, 
 Man  moft  in  danger  is  of  Lufts'znQhznimg  fting. 
 I  For  fuch  is  Hells  malicious  fubtilty. 
 With  all  advantages  ftill  to  affail 
 The  part  unarmed  of  man's  mortality. 
 That  he  with  greater  danger  may  prevail : 
 
 And  when  we  all  his  Inftruments  do  ^liail. 
 Of  Anger ^  Envj/^  Covetizty  and  Pride  : 
 In  humole  quiet  peace^  he  will  not  fail. 
 By  flight,  within  our  Wi/j-  with  hands  to  Aide, 
 iVherewith  he  ficrs  the  Gates,  and  all  the  Town  befide. 
 
 \  Thus  when  as  loAlf  and  the  Hoft  were  preft 
 To  ly  in  Tents,  and  Fields  a  warfaring. 
 And  IJhAi*s  fon  in  peace  at  home  doth  reft, 
 Divineft  Hymns  and  Lays  on  Harp  to  fing  • 
 
 Malicious  'Baftliskyfkh  luftfull  fting 
 Enflames  his  eys,  which  fct  his  heart  on  fire. 
 And  from  his  heavenly  Peace  to  fTar  doth  bring. 
 Such  luftfull  ;f>r/,  fuch  raging  hot  Mjire^ 
 
 U  breed  him  difmal  broils  and  Cod?  rcveng'ngire- 
 
 4  J^oi" 
 
4  For  mans  whole  life  is  a  continual  war. 
 With  Sutan,  fVoridy  \(\sflefh^fin,  and  lufl  : 
 Satan  the  Captain,  thefc  his  Souldicrs  are, 
 Againft  thefe  always  fland  in  arms  we  muft  : 
 
 "But  moft  of  all,  when  we  in  ^eace  do  trull. 
 We  want  Dame  C/;^//>yj  commanding  Power, 
 Sweet  holy  Lddj^  faiihfull,  pure  and  jufl. 
 In  feace  and  reft  our  fafe  defence  and  tower. 
 Dames  Laps  enriching  more  than  ^Danaes  golden  fiiowei 
 
 5  thou ;  that  from  flime  of  earth  man  firfl  did'ft  raife. 
 To  bear  thine  own  exprefs  limilitude. 
 
 That  he  in  p-.iritj  might  fpend  his  days. 
 And  all  corruptUrt.Jin  and  /fifi  exclude ; 
 
 Who  haft  his  heart  with  Grace  divine  indude,- 
 To  be  thy  Temple^  and  thy  Spirirs  Cell, 
 From  me  all  thoughts,  words,  afts  unchaft  feclude^ 
 Whilft  I  the  honor  of  this  Virtu  tell. 
 For  in  a  heart  unpure,  chafte  Spirit  will  not  dwell. 
 
 6  I  take  ^fr  for  that  Virtu  of  the  minde,        ;^' ^^' 
 Which  doth  the  furioufnefs  of  Luft  retain 
 
 In  Reafons  bounds ;  and  our  affedions  bindc 
 In  Royal  Links  of  Virtu's  golden  Chain  : 
 
 As  Abftinence  doth  appetite  reftrain 
 From  food  immoderate :  fo  from  defirc 
 UnlawfuU,  ftie  doth  minde  and  Hefli  contain. 
 And  bounds  in  limits  Generation*  fire. 
 As  Mcek^efs  bounds  the  rage  of  Zrals  revenging  ire.. 
 
 7  For  ev'n  as  Appetite,  without  reftrain t 
 Of  Ahftinence ,  delights  in  Glnttcnj^ 
 
 And  valiant  Zeaiis,  without  Meeknefs, taint 
 With  cruel  Rage,  and  Spites  malignity  : 
 
 Ev'n  fo  without  this  virtu  Cha/}itj^ 
 The  nobleft  vigor  of  fwect  generation^ 
 Abounds  in  Luft^  and  foul  Adahery^ 
 And  fpends  the  z/Zr^/^  without  raoderatiofi^' 
 But  Chafiitj  bounds  all  CO  lawfull  propa^aticn: 
 
 IS 
 
8  In  twofold  currents  runs  her  purer  fource, 
 'BBdies  and  mindes ;  The  minde  rcmaineth  chafl*. 
 Though  one  by  violence  the  Body  force  : 
 Again,thy' wWf  may  be  corrupt,  unchaf^, 
 
 Though  thou  no  zd:  in  flefh  committed  bad: : 
 Thine  cys,hands,ear$,words,looks,  lead  luflfuil  thought 
 She  will  contain,  if  in  thine  heart  once  placet : 
 The  unfpotted  Lamb,  whofc  bloud  thee  dearly  bouglit, 
 
 Unchaflly  never  fpake,lookt,  did,  once  heard  or  thought; 
 
 p  She  hath  her  firft  divine  pure  excellence 
 With  her  beginning,  from  our  Souls  creation ; 
 That  heay'nly,  holy,  pureft  influence 
 God  brcath'd  into  the  Lump  his  hand  did  fafbion, 
 
 ,         And  though  at  firft  by  Natures  depravation, 
 
 '■    She  as  all  other  Virtues  did  us  leave, 
 Yet  we  again  by  tru  mortification 
 Of  earthly  Members,  her  again  receive. 
 
 And  feek  as  memhers  chsfi^  to  chafiefi  Hesd  to  cleave, 
 
 I  o  For  at  nought  better  can  the  minde  contain. 
 
 Than  readings  heav'nlj  thoughts,  and  meditatior._. 
 So  not\\\ngfleJhly  Infis  doth  more  reftrain. 
 Than  Fafting,  Prajer,  and  mortlficatkn  : 
 
 Sweet  Chdfiitfs  of  heav'nly  propagation. 
 And  as  none  gain  gift  of  Virginitj, 
 But  by  the  i'^/Vi?/ fandification, 
 So  none  conlerve  their  facred  Ch^fiity, 
 But  by  that  Sprits  working,  Grace  2iiv\Sanclit\\ 
 
 II  V^htit^oxtdL^iyantonytefs,  Adultery y 
 Amongft  the  Vckksd  ^^orkj  of  fle//j  are  nam'd , 
 So  Afeeknefs,  Continence.,  and  C  haft  it  y , 
 
 Are  call'd  the  Spirits p^uits^hy  none  defam'd : 
 
 Talk  fcurrilous  to  hearlhc  is  afliam'd, 
 Her  modeft  looks  are  free  from  wantonnefs, 
 Uncleannefs,  filthinefs  may  not  be  nam'd 
 Within  their  mouths,  that  C  haft  it y  profefs, 
 Tongue,  eye  and  ear,  th'  affedions  of  the  heart  cxpreis. 
 
I  ^     The  H^fitbcn  did  this  Chaftity  ofmlttd^] 
 In  all  chat  came  cq  woffhip  Godf,  require, 
 i  or  chey  her  feated  in  the  Soul  did  findc, 
 Trom  whence  comes  ev*ry  good  or  bad  dcfirc  : 
 
 And  as  Socles  fub ft /tna^ure  immsrtallfrey 
 Doth  Bodies  made  of  £/fi>^f;;^/ tranfccnd, 
 ioAoihth^ChaftityofmiyKiezi^iict; 
 Qar  Souies  to  Angels  purity  doc  tend. 
 
 When  we  in  flcfh  with  them  in  chafteft  thoughts  contend. 
 
 3  3    *  hie  fiejh's  Chdftitj  is  to  be  free 
 from  (infull  touch,  or  ad  ;  that  of  the  mind 
 Js  Faith  Hnvlolate;  not  to  agree 
 To  any  luftfuli  thought :  we  fcldom  find    , 
 
 The  body  chall,  where  minde  is  ill  inclin'd 
 In  this  ihce  doth  Virginity  tranfccnd. 
 That  fhee  is  the  prckrver  of  mankind. 
 And  from  chaftnuptiallbeddoth  Children  frnd, 
 
 W'chout  which  all  the  world  would  perifh  foon,  and  endo 
 
 14  Thcfe  therefore  alwaies  her  Companions  arc 
 
 Shamfafinejfe^  Continence,  and  CMcdefiyy 
 
 T  hcEnimies  that  of  her  ftand  in  fear. 
 
 Arc  Fomik^cion^  wanton  Luxury ; 
 For  dice  ay  chaftens  their  iniquity  : 
 
 The  Seminaries  of  Delight  and  Plcafure, 
 
 Caroufing,  Qhamhering^  and  (jluttony^ 
 
 Which  wordjings  here  account  their  grcatcO:  treafore; 
 ^hce  hates,  and  lives  in  all  by  Natures  little  meafure. 
 
 5 5  Fulnefs  •f  meaty  Sltep,  Flay^  Garrulity^ 
 
 With  eafe  of  body  ^  c$ftly  vain  attire, 
 'Ihcfue/Urc  of  ZAf/,and  Luxury, 
 Which  here  dry  up  our  humid,  and  confpirc 
 
 To  burn  our  foules  and  bodies  in  hell  fire : 
 Other  (inns  are  v/khout, hut generacion ; 
 To  procreat  by  mucuall  defire. 
 Except  it  be  coufin'd  to  moderacion,  ^ 
 
 A  fm  is  '£ainft pur  -Bodits^HtM^and  SouUf  ^MltvMcl  iP  , 
 
ofChaflity  111 
 
 io  Lufl  may  be  likened  to  lome  River  main 
 Bounded  by  pureft  Channels  of  her  own. 
 Wherein  fo  long  ^%  (bee  her  ftreams  contain. 
 Her  waters  pleaianr,pure,and  fweet  arc  known ; 
 But  if  her  fwelhng  waves  fo  proud  be  grown    • 
 They  pafs  their  bounds  and  overflow  the  Plain, 
 Her  floudsjlate  pure,  now  foul  and  muddy  fhown^ 
 And  boundleffe  overflow  the  grafs  and  grain. 
 
 So  rageth  LawUfs  Lnf}  let  loofe  from  Vertnes  rain. 
 
 17  For  wee  are  like  unruly  Hbrfes  all 
 Still  neighing  after  neighbours  wives  :  but  (be 
 Us,  as  with  Bit  and  BriMe^  doth  recall 
 And  makes  our  Lufis  to  Reafons  rule  agree : 
 
 Thus  two  as  in  one  body  joyned  be. 
 And  are  for  mutuall  Bounds  of  fweet  delire. 
 And  bounded  thu?,r/;<?^^  is  C/7^/^ff:  ^ 
 
 Like  to  the  ufefull  Element  of  Fier 
 Which  bounded,aIl  preferves  ^  but  loof  d,is  all's  deftroyer^ 
 
 18  This  houndlefs  Lufl  feme  liken  to  the  Fire^ 
 And  'Bnmflone  God  AiA  down  on  Sodom  rain. 
 Virginity  to  ynennt^  God  doth  require 
 Lot  to  efcapc  unto,  who  doth  obtain 
 
 Rather  in  little  Zoar  to  remain  : 
 So  they  that  from  Lufts  Sodoms-fcsrching  flame. 
 Cannot  Virginiti:s  high  Afonnt  attain. 
 May  flay  in  Zoar^  which  they  \W^ri^name. 
 The  City's  fafefl,  but  the  Momt  of  greater  fame. 
 
 ^9  As  glorious  San  when  he  doth  firfl:  arife,  1 
 
 Is  both  of  heav'n  and  earth  the  wonderment, 
 Ev  n  fo  a  woman,  modeft^  chafi,  and  wife^ 
 Of  Hofife  and  Husband  is  the  ornament : 
 
 An  honcft  Wife's  a  gift  fr#m  heaven  fent, 
 A$  Light  on  golden  CAndleftick^  (hines  bright. 
 So  Bentj  in  a  woman  continent^ 
 A  Lamp  to  Hotife  and  Husband  all  the  nighr, 
 
 Ml  day  \)kc gloria rts  Bcamn  ofTttans  heav  nly  Light, 
 
 Bb  And 
 
378       ^  Of  ChAjtity. 
 
 10  And  that  is  thcnoMclt'c'i^^or)', 
 Which  Souldiers  with  moft  danger  do  obtain^, 
 So  fbc,  that  keeps  her  honoured  Chafiitj^ 
 Gainft  moft  tcjr^pt^cionjy  doth  rRcfl-  glory  gain^ 
 
 Tis  harder  bale  aftedions  to  redrawn 
 In  eafe  and  red,  than  moderate  aright 
 A  Kingdom,  which  by  open  f  )rce  wc  gain. 
 So  many  are  our  Lufts  that  in  us  fight. 
 
 -So  ftrong  is  Satans  force,  fo  fubtill  is  his  flighto 
 
 .::  I  No  beauty,  form,  or  golden  Vefliment 
 Do  fo  adorn  the  Body  as  the  Mind, 
 Is  graced  by  this  Vertues  Ornament : 
 y/ithout  fweet  Light  the  Sun  as  foon  we  find» 
 As  Shamefaftncfs  from  Chalrity  dif- joy n'd : 
 3mmodert  looks  are  Darts  againft  her  thrown. 
 When  man  and  womans  Ught  afpeds  are  joyn'd. 
 The  battel's  fought,  both  fides  are  overthrown. 
 
 'Ah  cruell  fight !  where  neither  fide  defends  her  own. 
 -  2  As  cys  from  wanton  looks,  ev'n  fo  our  ear 
 *Gamfl  ail  immodefl  Charms,  we  mufl  inclofc ; 
 Tor  ShamefadnefTes  vayl  chefe  off  doe  tear. 
 And  our  aifedions  prone  to  LaiH  unlofe  :   " 
 
 The  Flnrnf  and  Fi^e  do  not  fooner  clofe, 
 Than  ImvudaKe  and  foul  unchaftitj^ 
 Then  Bcautj,  like  Gold-ring  in  fwinifh  Nofe, 
 Doth  root  in  'Dnrt  o^ Imfudicitj^ 
 
 No  Bodfsdiiil  where  Mind's  joyn  in  Adultery. 
 
 23  Who  is  not  c  loth'd  in  robe  pure  fnow  white 
 OfChafiiti^,  the  Lamh  will  never  know  : 
 Then  "Dames,  that  in  fayr  ornaments  delight, 
 Dcfire  to  be,  as  you  defirc  to  (how  : 
 
 All  richeftPcarlcs,  Gold,  Jewels,  hccr  below, 
 /  re  nothing  to  this  Gem  ofChaftitie : 
 '^0  fairer  Flonr  doth  in  Loves  garden  grow. 
 Than  BUfh  of  Shamefaftnefs  and  modefly^ 
 -0  Ji-^^l  like  Bdt  fif  Truth  and  SsnClitj, 
 
 1A 
 
 V- 
 
Uf  Chaftitj,  37P 
 
 24  Nor  doe  1  only  hcer  of  you  require 
 
 A  Continence^  for  fear  of  Z.t\V  or  Fume, 
 
 Bu  t  fiich  a  Chaftkie  1  doc  defire. 
 
 That  neither  may  your  Mind  nor  Confclence  blame : 
 Oh  let  it  be  unto  your  Soi:l  js  a  Hiame, 
 
 A  Bird  (hould  you  in  Chafiitj  tranfcend , 
 
 The  Turtle  never  changeth  mate  or  njtme^ 
 
 For  this  the  Story  Judith  doth  commend. 
 But  this  is  no  command^  but  counfellioi  a  friend. 
 
 2  5  Take  heer  for  pattern  Rachels  chadeft  fonne. 
 
 Who  ev'n  a  princcfs  luftfull  To  ft  embrace. 
 
 For  vertu^s  Love^  not  fear  Qfjhamc^  AiA  (hun : 
 
 1  heer  might  grant  Lucretla  a  place. 
 But  thzifelfe-rmrther  doth  her  foule  difgracc  : 
 
 Penelope* s  a  Mappe>of  Chafi:  defire,      . 
 
 Who  farr  away  ail  Jdkncfs  doth  chafe. 
 
 Nor  takes  leaft  heat  from  Suiters  luftfull  fir?, 
 But  twice  ten  years  expcds  her  dcarefr  Lords  retire. 
 
 26  Sufans  fo  chad,  her  Rumopir  dares  not  biame. 
 To  this  high  pitch  of  honour  they  doe  rife. 
 That  (bun  all  idlenefs  and  wanton  game^ 
 
 And  more  than  gold  their  names  and  honour  prize. 
 
 Sobriety  them  ay  accompani'es. 
 Both  in  their/^f^i^«^,  eatings  and  Attire^  ^^ 
 
 Their  mode fi  gate  Jlveet  carnage,  (ham  fa  ft  eys 
 Doe  prove  their  Beds  he  N efts  of  chaft  defire. 
 To  quench  more  than  enflame  the  brands  of  luftfull  fire. 
 
 27  Ev*n  fruitfuU  Venus,  tru  to  husbands  fide, 
 
 May  win  from  keavns  high  Queen  zht golden  Ball ;  ""funo* 
 
 And  virgin  P;^//^/ may  be  well  denide 
 
 The  honour,  which  chaft  Matrons  doth  befall.. 
 
 Glory  of  cither  Sex  !  Oh  how  then  (hall 
 This  hand  unchaft  of  that  pure  chajtnefs  write. 
 By  which  Chrifts-Bride  furmounts  the  daughters  aU^ 
 And  doth  the  .3^eens  and  Concubines  delight. 
 Binding  ev'n  mighty  Kings  with  her  moft  glorious  fight. 
 
 B  b  2  Wr 
 
^8o  OfCh4fiitf. 
 
 2  <S    Her  Turtle  z-ttycf^  Doves  cjcs^  zlsLUIj  white 
 Excels  the  Thorn' s>  To  She  all  Womankind  : 
 Yet  loves  but  orje^  whom  fhec  in  bed  by  night 
 Doth  feek  for  long,  at  hi): alone  doth  find  : 
 
 He  her  alone  in  arms  embracech  kind, 
 And  (hee  alone  delights  in  his  imbracc  : 
 Chafl:  Bridegrome,  chafleft  Bride  together  joy  nd. 
 Of  Saints  beget  a  holy  heav'niy  race  : 
 
 With  this  high  Mjfterj^  Chrifb  doth  chafl  Wedlock  grace 
 
 .9  And  brandeth  v/kh  ipiritfiall  Formcathn^ 
 i  hofe,  who  on  earth  their  chafleft  Head  forfake, 
 And  (loops  to  Idols  ^nd  ahominacion. 
 Here  choyce  Ol  Lovers  to  themfeives  to  take  : 
 
 The  Sair^ts  SindArt^c/s  they  tor Brtdegrome  take. 
 When  they  before  their  Images  do  fall : 
 1  hu'.  flic  the  Scarlet'wh^e  her  (elfe  doth  makr^ 
 And  they  her  haftards  which  (he  beareth  all  : 
 
 luco  fajlards^with  tru-hejrSj  ne'r  inherit  fhall, 
 
 ^0  As  chafiSo  we  ^jealoftt  Bridegrome  have. 
 And  aj  his  L^ve,  like  Death^  is  fure  and  ftrong, 
 So's/(r/(7«/?fascruellis  as^r^^c^f*  : 
 Who  fuch  a  loving  Husband  dares  to  wrong. 
 
 His  Jealous  Fury  may  expeA  ere  long 
 But  now  I  ftray  from  Iwecteft  Meditacion, 
 I  ought  to  end,  as  1  began  my  Song  : 
 One  word  more  of  a  worthy  of  our  Nacion, 
 
 A  pattern  worth  thy  learning,  love,  and  imitacion. 
 
 -^  T    Thomas  Archbifiiop  of  TerlC  s  famous  Sec ; 
 
 When  Doftcvrscounfell,  and  his  friends  him  praid. 
 
 For  Cure  to  ufe  a  female-remedy. 
 
 And  for  that  turn,  him  brought  a  comely  mayd  : 
 Moft  pioully  to  them  replide,  and  fayd. 
 
 That  to  prefcrve  his  flefh,  which  was  to  die. 
 
 His  Soules  mmondiWchaflitj  betrayd 
 
 Should  never  be  :  Such  heav'nly  Chaflitj 
 ^hc-.v  ST  plain,  his  Soul  dgth  live  \n  hcav'ncjcrnally 
 
 —  •  ;  \  ......    ^   .    .  ^  y.^. 
 
OfChaflitie  381 
 
 14  But  as  the  Lute,  which  yeelds  a  plcafant  found. 
 Doth  others,  but  it  felfe  no  whit  delight ; 
 So,  if  examples  only  I  propound 
 To  others,  and  not  praftife  what  I  write, 
 
 I  never  may  approach  the  chafteft  Light ^ 
 To  which  our  chafiefl  Head  before  is  gon  ; 
 For  no  unchaft  one  commeth  in  his  fight. 
 Except  with  Magdalen  they  figh  and  groan, 
 And  cieanie  with  floods  oiteares  their  filchinefs,  each  one^ 
 3  5    Thus  clenfd  our  Soul  is  like  Brides  living  ire II, 
 Whofe  waters  are  mod  pleafant,  pure  an'd  fweet : 
 Our  bodies  eys  like  fountains  two,  which  quell 
 And  quench  all  Lufrs  remptacions  which  they  meet : 
 
 But  now-adays  we  hold  this  Grace  unmeet. 
 In  noble  valiant  breft  to  intertain. 
 Men  only  think  her  fit  for  Dames  to  greet. 
 And  to  their  bafefi:  Lufts  let  loofe  the  Rain  : 
 But  fure  no  Verr.u  dwels  where  (he  doth  not  remain. 
 
 3  6  1  he  Flelh  againil:  the  Spirit  coveteth. 
 
 But  if  the  Spirit  manfully  hold  our. 
 
 It  all  Lufts  bafe  temptacions  vanquiilicth  s 
 
 Who  have  a  purpofe  refolute  and  ftout, 
 To  temper  their  affedions,  may  (  no  doubt ) 
 
 Defend  their  honour  againfi:  Concupifcence ; 
 
 And  though  they  oft  oppofd  are  by  a  ratit 
 
 Of  their  lufis,  helsy  and  -worlds  violence. 
 Their  c/7^/refolved  mind  maintains  their  innocence^ 
 
 37  Then  Fools  are  they,  that  when  they  have begr?B 
 
 In  fptrit,  in  the  pfh  will  make  an  end  : 
 
 He  that  once  tafts  of  Lufi:,  more  hardly  can 
 
 Abflain,  than  he  that  never  did  intend :  , 
 Me,  from  her  firll: Beginnings,  Lord  defend  1 
 
 She's  like  the  Serpent  that  did  Eve  aflaii ; 
 
 She  pleafant  fruits  and  pleafures  doth  pretend, 
 
 Her»fo//t^dropshoney-fweet,  but  with  herf^y4' 
 She  flings  ev'n  all  to  hell,  with  whom  (lie  doth  prevail, 
 
 Bb  2  £»• 
 
•■582  of  Chaftitj. 
 
 ^  8  But  though  I  make  a  cuv'natJt  with  mine  ejs^ 
 Like  lob,  no  liiftfull  objcd:  to  behold, 
 Yet  oft  this  Monfter  will  mine  heart  furprize. 
 And  unawares  in  iinfull  Thought  infold. 
 
 This  serpents  cunning  (leights  can  not  be  told  ; 
 The  bcfl  way  to  avoyd  them  can  be  found. 
 Is  her  aloof  to  keep  :  if  thou  be  bold 
 To  chat  with  her,  fhe  unawares  will  wound, 
 
 J  almoft  fear  her  filthinefs  now  to  propownd. 
 
 3P  lIncircumcifed,rayIiugP/7?7//?/';j  ! 
 Who  all  Gods  hofte  defiec  in  lingle  fight, 
 I  dare  not  fuffer  thee  to  come  within, 
 Such  is  thy  force,  fuch  is  thy  cunning  flight ; 
 
 Thou  art  a  Gyant  of  exceeding  might. 
 If  you  will  hearken  unto  my  perfwafion. 
 Keep  him  aloof,  and  in  th^  forehead  fmite. 
 Bed  way  to  (hun  Lulls  furious  invafion. 
 
 Is  warily  here  to  avoid  the  ieaft  occafion. 
 
 ^,0  *Z)^v'/Jefcapes  the  Bears  and  Lyons  paws, 
 ,    And  overthrows  the  Phillfiln  in  field, 
 And  yet  this  fubtill  Serpent  him  fo  drawes. 
 His  heart  unto  her  Syrens-fongs  doth  yeeld  : 
 
 Then  fhe  him  conquers  without/\Vor^  or /hie/ J, 
 An^^  leads  him  by  the  cye-hds  to  her  fnare. 
 Heav^'ns  from  fach  lubtill  vile  allurements  (hield 
 AH  thofe,  that  have  a  Confcience  and  care. 
 Their  hearts  fie  Temples  for  thy  Spirit  to  prepare, 
 
 41  Purge  us  with  HyfTop,  and  vve  Iliall  be  pure  : 
 Waili  us,  we  than  the  Snow  fnall  be  mc  re  white  ♦ 
 Our  Soules  and  Bodies  Temple  iliali  be  fure 
 A  holy  hofife^  wherein  thou  may  ft  delight  : 
 But  I  the  vertne  for  the  vice  have  quight, 
 I  purposed  Chaftity  here  to  commend. 
 But  LhJI  fo  fiercely  with  my  Ad'nfc  doth  fight 
 I  fcarce  miae  own  am  able  to  defend  : 
 
 Therefore  with  Prayer  I  my  Mcditadon  end. 
 
 Oh 
 
OfCh^^ty  ^  ii6 
 
 42  O  tnou,  that  mad'lt  my  :::oui  a  little  ICing^ 
 
 Aud  in  this  little  JVorU^  mj  Body  plac't ; 
 
 It  fubjcd  making  to  the  ordering 
 
 Of  Reafon,  wherewith  thou  this  King  hafi:  grac't ; 
 Set  firft  of  all  the  S  over  Aligns  Kingdoms  faftj 
 
 Whereby  his  Suhjecls  he  may  rule  aright. 
 
 That  is ^afeSiions  keep  mofl  pure  and  chafl. 
 
 But  mofl  in  ^iritual  chaftity  delight, 
 To  which  add  Confiancj^  of  which  I  next  do  write. 
 
 Meditation    III. 
 
 Of  Con^ancy. 
 
 C  O  oft  as  I  the  Splendor  do  behold 
 
 •^  Of  heav'nly  Graces,  linkt  in  a  golden  chainj 
 
 Which  them  fo  firmly  doth  together  hold. 
 
 That  allxhty  but  as  one  feem  to  remain ; 
 My  Soul  is  fo  dehghted  with  their  train. 
 
 That  fti^  defires  to  dwell  with  them  for  ay  ; 
 
 But  oft  employments  pleafures^  cares^  zndgalff^ 
 
 Mine  eys  and  heart  fo  draw  another  way, 
 
 1  flefhly  motions  more  tha  n  fpiritual  obay. 
 
 2  And  as  thefe  Graces  joyn'd,  my  Soul  dehghr^' 
 So  doth  each  finglcd  out  by  Medication, 
 Sing  I  of  Love,  I  love  with  all  my  might ; 
 
 If  Bumblenefsy  (he  works  humiliation  : 
 
 So  Faith,  Repentance^  Hope^  ffifiificattoff^ 
 By  Righteoufnefs  imputed :  Mercy  kinde, 
 foy ,  Facience ,  Fortitude^  chaft  Converfation^ 
 ,  T^eace^Meeknefs^  Prayer ^  Zeal^  ev'n  all  I  finde  . 
 Do  always  to  my  Song,  fute  both  my  heart  and  minde^ 
 
 Bb4  Br: 
 
?;84  OfConfiancj,  | 
 
 3  But  fuch  are  my  Corrupcions  innate, 
 
 Hels  malice,  and  the  worlds  enticements  vain^ 
 I  can  no  longer  hold  that  happy  ftate. 
 Than  I  in  Contemplacion  remain  ; 
 
 This  {$  the  caufe  my  Mufe  is  now  fo  fain 
 To  fing  o^Confiancie^  that  heav'niy  Grace^ 
 Which  all  the  refl  doth  ay  with  us  retain  ; 
 Mofl  glorious  Grace  !  the  luftre  of  whofe  face, 
 i^oth  heavenly  Love,  and  all  her  Peers  for  ever  grace, 
 
 4  For,  without  Her,  the  red:  are  all  but  Qiows, 
 Like  Corn  by  high-wayes  fide,  flourifh  awhile. 
 And  feems  more  glorious  than  that  which  grows 
 Upon  befl bottomed,  dunged,  tilled  Soyl : 
 
 But  as  that  only  doth  ouif  eyes  beguile 
 With  flourifhes,  in  calm  and  gentle  fpring. 
 But  Summers  heat,  and  froils,  it's  verdure  fpoil : 
 E  /'n  fo,  thefe  rootlefs  Vertues  flourifhing, 
 Adyerfc  or  profp'rous  Fortme  to  copfufion  bring. 
 
 5  Thou,  that  art  from  Etcrmtj  the  fame. 
 Without  Icaft  (hadow  of  Variety  : 
 
 Like  to  the  Sun,  hea*vns  pure  world-lighting  flame, 
 Conflant  in  heat^  cotirfe,  ^LiAferenitk  : 
 
 Three ^  yet  fubiifling  in  one  Deitie, 
 Who,  though  thou  feemefi:  to  change  with  things  below. 
 Art  farre  in  truth  from  Mutability  ; 
 Oh  make  mine  heart  in  vertu  conftant  grow, 
 hic  thence,  as  from  a  Fountain,  this  Difcourfe  may  flow. 
 
 f ■  We  (^oHftanck  a  Ferfeverance  call 
 
 jn  fome  goodpurpofe :  l^r  m  every  thing 
 
 We  undertake,  right  mufl  be  firft  of  ail 
 
 Rcfolv'd  of,  next,  aur  firm  perfevering : 
 
 Avain,  unfectled,  idle  wavering 
 
 Without  juft  ground,  by  Proteus^  Poets  fain, 
 
 Who  on  him  felfc  as  many  forms  will  bring, 
 
 As  he  hath  idle  nocions  in  his  brain. 
 
 Or  bafe  defires  aod  Lufts  which  in  his  heart  remain 
 
 But 
 
OfCoTtfiandj,  585 
 
 7  Bwt  in  good  puf  pofc  to  (land  faft  and  found. 
 Not  only  man-like  is,  but  moll  divine. 
 
 Like  God,  in  whom  no  change  was  ever  found : 
 Tor  as  the-Sunne,  this  worlds  pure  cryftall  eyn. 
 In  hcav'n  doth  alwaies  with  like  glory  fhine, 
 T hough ,  by  the  varying  Mediums  here  below. 
 It  fccm  more  glorious  in  the  Summer  time. 
 Than  when  EoUnn  blafts  dark  clouds  do  blow  : 
 So  Confiance  is  the  fame,  though  ak'ringoft  in  fhow- 
 
 8  This  Conftance  is  with  Pacience  a  twin^, 
 Begot  by  lufiter  o^  Fortitude  ; 
 Mother  and  Babes  as  like,  as  neer  of  kin ; 
 Who  hath  one^  with  all  three  muft  be  indyde : 
 
 Thefe  lift  up  to  herokail  haifltfsde. 
 And  come  from  Itiftice,  and  a  prudent  mind. 
 If  Fury ,  Rage,  Wrong,  Rafhnefs  do  intrude. 
 We  them  no  vertues  fairc^  but  vices  find, 
 VVfth  whom  Aianerva,  nor  the  Graces  ever  joyn  d. 
 
 ^  Pacience  and  (^onflancie  in  this  agree. 
 
 Effeminate  faint  hearts  ay  to  oppofc. 
 
 And  men  relieve  in  all  extremities 
 
 Undanted,  refolute,  who  will  nor  loofe 
 That  liberty,  they  have  the  Good  to  choofe  : 
 
 Thus  feem  they  one  :  now  mark  their  difference^, 
 
 Pacience  all  wrongs  with  cou'age  undergoes : 
 
 Tor  without  Sufferings  no  Pacimcc  : 
 But  (^tnfiance  is  in  joy  d.ndpain  a  firm  defence. 
 
 I  o  Without  Compuifion,  free  for  Vertues  fake, 
 
 Cadence  conllraind,,  oft  by  neceflity 
 
 Moftcheerfull  valiantly  doth  undertake 
 
 To  bear,  what  cannot  well  avayded  be ; 
 One  good  end  Co^ftancie  propounds,  which  (he 
 
 Only  regards ;  but  noble  Pacience, 
 
 Before  her  will  all  evils  conquerd  fee. 
 
 Which  her  opprefe  in  fleih  or  confcience : 
 Bath  have  brgve  rcfoiucjon,  and  found  conRdence, 
 
 \4e 
 
;8^  Of  Chafiity. 
 
 i  I  l^ofurj  of  the  headlefs  C^itiltitude, 
 No  Tyrants  rage  a  conftant  mind  can  Ihakc ; 
 Though  all  the  world  turn  to  a  ^^^o^rude. 
 The  ruines  crufh  him  muy ,  but  can  not  make 
 
 iriim  ftagger,  nor  love's  thunder  make  him  quackc. 
 The  Sea  may  roare,  the  waves  mount  to  the  skies, 
 And  threaten  him  to  drown  in  deepeft  Lake : 
 But  Fury,  Rage,  Waves,  all  he  doth  defpife. 
 
 And  when  hopes  outward  faile,  his  inward  highcft  rife, 
 
 1 2  He  conftant  perfeveres  unto  the  end. 
 Like  fome  good  traveller,  who  gives  not  m. 
 Till  he  attain  the  place  he  doth  intend: 
 And  as  the  Souidier,  that  the  town  would  win, 
 
 rights  floutly,  till  he  conquers  all  within  : 
 Even  fo  in  Buildings,  Arts,  or  Merchandize, 
 In  any  Work  or  Science  we  begin. 
 It  is  the  Qn(i  where  all  our  glory  lyes  ; 
 He  runs  in  vain,  that  faints  before  he  wins  the  Prize, 
 t3  Though  all  her  meanes,  and  all  her  ftrength  do  fail. 
 Yet  fcares  (lie  not  to  hold  out  to  the  end. 
 Sheets  fliil  the  fame,  and  nothing  can  prevail. 
 To  alter  any  Good  (be  doth  intend. 
 To  whom  the  heav'ns  tru  ro;i/^?ia>  do  fend 
 
 Within  their  hearts  to  dwell,  on  all  occafions 
 Effcds  moll  admirable  thence  tranfcend 
 She  fils  the  heart  with  fuch  fecure  perfwafions ; 
 They  it  defend  from  all  faint-heartted  bafc  mvafionr. 
 
 i4  A  conftant  man,  the  moft  difaftrous  fate. 
 With  a  moft  pleafing  forehead  entertains  s 
 
 Integrity  fo  fweetens  his  eflate, 
 
 As  in  a  pleafant  Calm  he  ay  remaincs : 
 
 With  her  he  alwayes  in  his  heart  retains,' 
 Hope, "Prudence, FortltHde,Right,Temperance:  ^      ^ 
 And  when  him  Troubles,  Loffes,  Griefe,  or  Pamcs, 
 Aflail,  fo  ftoutly  Packnee  doth  advance. 
 He  livcth  moft  fecure,  not  fubjeft  unto  Chance. 
 
 -    3nn 
 
of  C^nfiancf,  3^7, 
 
 t5  Brave  noble  Co^fiance  \  who  are  never  found. 
 
 Except  dame  Prudence  thee  accompany. 
 
 Thou  on  her  counfels  and  advice  doft  found 
 
 Thy  fetled  refolucions  all,  whereby 
 Thou  ftandft  mod  firm  for  Truth  and  Hone% ! 
 
 Nothing  can  thee,  thus  well  refolv'd,  withftand. 
 
 In  vain  and  evili  things  no  confiancie^ 
 
 But  \)2i(t  fcrverfnef%^  wc  do  undcrftand  ; 
 Jufl,honcft,  profitabU'sallfhctakciiniiand. 
 
 1 6  Tor  perfeverance  in  a  thing  that's  ill, 
 Is  to  this  Vcrtu  no  lefs  enemy. 
 
 Than  they  that  by  affedions  guide  their  will 
 With  vain  inconftancy  and  levitie  : 
 
 Who,  of  a  wanton  imbccillity. 
 Stagger  and  change  at  ev'ry  idle  mocion, 
 Wind-lhaken  Reeds,  whofc  inftability. 
 Arc  like  the  brain-iick,  idle,  vain  dcvocion 
 Of  Nove/lifis^  drunk  with  hot  humours  giddy  pocfdn, 
 
 17  Prepoft'rous  fools  !  who  when  they  (hould  frequenc 
 AjOfcmblies,  hide  themfeives  at  home  alonf;  ^, 
 From  what  they  do  approve,  they  foon  diifent. 
 Hating  what  erll  they  lov'd,  difpraife  as  foon 
 
 What  rrft  they  liked  well :  Lo,  fuch  a  one, 
 Appeares  like  Cato's  Ape^  wondrous  fevere. 
 With  rugged  brow  ;  but  you  may  find  him  foon 
 DiiTolv'd  in  Laughter,  or  ev*n  dead  with  feare  :   ' " 
 juch,  any  publike  Office  is  unfit  to  beare. 
 
 j  8  No  truth  oifiidgemeftt  or  Sincerities 
 
 I  In  fuch  a  vaine  inconfiant  mind  is  fdund  : 
 But  Slouth,  Fraud,  Wantonnefs,Iniquityj 
 With  all  the  bafefl  Vices  there  abound  : 
 
 This  Levity  mjouth  ^oxhage  confound 
 With  doting  madncfs ;  and  a  man  declarer 
 Wile  only  then  in  (hew,  not  inward  found  : 
 But  then  a  brave  and  confiant  »>;Wappeare?, 
 
 jVVhcn  confirm  B^folncion  honours  filver  haires. 
 
388  OfConflancj, 
 
 9  Well  faid  th'oldC;«*Vi^,when  him  friends  idvifc 
 To  leave  his  lludy,  and  to  take  his  reft  ; 
 lam,  faith  he,  now  running  for  a  prize. 
 And  therefore  in  the  end  muft  run  my  heft. 
 The  fliorter  time  of  Life  to  us  doth  reft, 
 More  conftantlj  we  to  our  ay m  muft  tend.  Ij 
 
 Who  runs,  faith  Paul^  the  race,  is  never  bled 
 With  due  reward,  that  holds  not  to  the  end  : 
 
 For  Cfffftdrice  if  the  Grace  doth  all  the  reft  commend. 
 
 a  o  And  as  the  man,  that  hard  things  undertkacs, 
 
 Muft  alwaics  have  refped  unto  the  end, 
 
 Which  all  precedent  bitternefs  fweet  makes,  I 
 
 Be  it  for  pleafure,  glory,  gain,  or  friend  ; 
 So  he  that  for  Gods  giory  doth  contend. 
 
 And  makes  it  ay  his  conftant  trA  and  aym, 
 
 As  that's  immortal,  fo  it  him  aotb  fend, 
 
 Tru  immortality  in  heavn  to  gain, 
 V Vhich  comforts  him  for  all  his  Labour,  Lofs,  and  pain. 
 
 2  J  As  Mountains  huge  ftand  fafi:  on  their  foundacion. 
 So  ctjift ant  minds  on  refolucions  found. 
 As  they  unmovM,  (b  without  aiceracion 
 Are  good  Conclufions  built  on  Vertues  ground  : 
 
 Kconf^ant  man  ftands  on  a  rocK  profound, 
 Which  neither  ftorms,  wind,  v/ave%  nor  force  can  move 
 Croires,affiid:ions,  can  no  more  confound 
 Him  ,than  wind,  waves,  and  fiorms,  the  rock  remove, 
 
 Whofc  ftrongfoundacion  ftands  on  faith  ^hope^trHfh  dclovt 
 
 2 2  Anfelmus  doth  a  confiant  tKAn  compare 
 
 Unto  a  fix-fquare  Dy,  or  hewed  ftone. 
 
 The  fix  Jiat'ftdiSy  h'lsftx  Cf^fdickr.s  are, 
 
 Frcedomey  Proffnity^  Suhje^iorh 
 Advtrfity^  Life-pHbUcjy.e^  and  aloite  % 
 
 On  which  foever  fide  he  chance  to  fall. 
 
 He  ftands  upright  with  refolucion. 
 
 No  changes  can  his  conftant  mind  appall, . 
 But  as  he  ftandeth  firm  on  one  ^i^t^  fo  on  all. 
 
 M 
 
OfConfianej  gg^ 
 
 23  As  bodily  eyes  all  need  Light  of  Sun 
 
 Whereby  they  may  attain  unto  their  end, 
 I   So  on  a  1!  good  and  vertuous  w  orkt  begun. 
 
 This  hol^'^Vertu  confiAHce  mud  attend 
 And  as  except  the  Sun  his  Light  doth  lend. 
 
 We  open  in  the  dark  our  eyes  in  vain, 
 
 So  vainly  wee  good  holy  works  intend. 
 
 Except  we  conftant  to  the  end  remain, 
 Like  Pilot  drown'd  in  Havn^  when  he  hath  fcapt  the  Mai0 
 
 :4  Is*t  not  abfur'd,  that  wc  (houid  early  rife, 
 
 Lofe  fleepjbroil  withSuns  heat,&take  great  pain 
 
 Only  to  win  a  fading  worchlefte  prize. 
 
 And  give  ii  ,when  wefurebeto  obtain 
 ACrown,  which  (bail  for  ever  make  us  raign  ? 
 .    Y.xcz^ith^ Sit^Jdicr confrAntht d,nA  bold. 
 
 His  Captulnes  favour  he  (liall  never  gain  ; 
 
 Unlcfs  o\xx  fpirituall  fight  we  conftant  hold, 
 Gods  comfortable  face  we  never  (hall  behold. 
 
 25  She  is  theNurfe  of  Merir,  frelnd  of  Pe.ice, 
 Way  to  Reward,  iiiier  of  Pacience, 
 
 Tru  freindlhips  Band,  pure  Sandities  increafc : 
 
 Take  away  Conftance^  Bounties  excellence 
 
 Doth  fade,  and  Duty  wants  her  rccompencc; 
 '.    High  Fortitude  doth  want  her  commcndacion, 
 
 She  is  alone  the  noble  Grace y  from  whence 
 
 All  other  Graces  have  their  Confummacion  : 
 To  her  is  giv'n  or  rather  (he  gives  mans  falvacion. 
 
 26  What  more  like  unto  God  than  Confl-ancy  f 
 Who  ay  like  Sun  in  heav'n  remains  the  fame. 
 Though  to  defcend  to  mans  capacity. 
 He  often  feem  to  change  his  mind  and  name/ 
 
 The  Scriptures  then  mans  changing  clofely  blame, 
 When  they  affirm,  God  greivesor  doth  repent : 
 Tis  flelh  that  alters,  God  is  flill  the  fame  : 
 So  clouds  feem  oft  to  change  the  Firmament, 
 vVhich  till  the  Day  of  Doom  Hands  firm  and  permanent. 
 
 Wher. 
 
3po  CfConJtancy,  V 
 
 27  Whcnc'is(hehatharc;:r/^rofthcright, 
 She  therein  perfevers  11  nto  the  end  :  ! 
 
 Therefore  ot^o^fia-  (he  is  Confiance  hight ; 
 And  well  this  nam^  her  nature  doth  commend. 
 
 Her  underflandm  g  firft  doth  apprehend 
 Things  to  be  good,  before  (he  doth  begin  : 
 Then  (he  moft  conflantlj  doth  ay  intend. 
 When  (he  cotftii'ratlj  hath  entred  in  : 
 rtius  all  the  Saints  on  earth,  a  room  in  heav'n  mull  win. 
 
 2S  And  though  all  flelh,  by  our  firft  Parents  fall 
 
 Arc  fo  unconfranr,  vain,  and  wavering, 
 
 They  have  in  v/ords,  thoughts,  adions,and  all , 
 
 Oi^ Eves  fond  fickle nefs  a  reii(hing  ; 
 Id  E:ioch  yet  CG-aftant  perfevcring 
 
 To  walk  with  God,  till  he  him  takes  away  : 
 
 And  Noah^  conftant  in  the  publifhing 
 
 Of  tru  Repentance,  ev^'n  nntill  the  day, 
 -floods  come  and  drown  all  Flejh  without  the  ^r^^that  ftay , 
 
 Jp  Ahram  mod  conflant  in  beleefe  we  find  . 
 
 i\o  feare  nor  terror  jacoh  could  difmay  : 
 
 Joji'ph  had  rather  yron  linkes  (hould  b:nd 
 
 i-lis  lims,  than  from  chaft  Conft uncle  to  ftray^ 
 So  long  as  hardened  Mvmfhians  diibbay, 
 
 j>/fofes  mc,V( conflantlj  for  plagues  doth  call  :    ' 
 
 Lo  lofk'ahs  courage  lengthens  out  the  day. 
 
 Till  he  Gods  enemies  deftroyeth  all  ; 
 No  force,  nor  fury  can  his  conjlant  mind  appall. 
 
 -0  I  number  may  the  Starres  of  heav'n  as  well. 
 As  here  the  Mirrors  all  of  Cmftance  count. 
 Who  Champions  brave  againft  World,  flejh^  and  helh 
 Jn  Fort  it  fide  and  Patience  furmount : 
 
 Many  of  them  I  formerly  recount. 
 In  Fortitudes  and  Patience  Meditacion, 
 7  hey  all  arifefTom  one  iVw^heav'nljfount^ 
 That  clenfing  Laver  of  Regeneracion, 
 
 T 1  cugh  glitriag  (hows- we  find  oft  wich  the  heathen  naciort 
 " "  ~-   •^-     -~    '       lie 
 
3 1  He  name  one  Carthage  *  f  rifoner  for  all,  ^-  Kegulns 
 
 Who,  upon  promife  to  return  again. 
 Was  fent  to  Rome,  tbe  Senate  there  to  call, 
 Them  to  prefwade  againft  their  Cities  gain : 
 
 But  he  mofl:  nobly  will  not  yeeld  to  flain 
 His  Countries  glory,  for  his  priv*t  goody 
 f    But  conftantlj  perfwades  them  to  maintain 
 
 Their  honour,  though  hcfeal'd  it  with  his  blood. 
 And  conjhnt  flill  tht  fame  aganft  all  tortures  flood. 
 
 3  2  His  noble  mind  their  cruelties  derides, 
 
 His  Executioners  are  wearied. 
 
 Yet  conflant  he  and  cheerfull  all  abides, 
 
 9^ief,gaw^  for  Countries  good,  he  reckoned. 
 Yet  hath  this  Confiancie  been  conquered 
 
 By  thoufand  Martyrs,  which  mod  willingly 
 
 For  Sjonsglo'^j  have  been  martyred ; 
 
 Who  when  their  flefli  doth  broil,  and  bowels  fry. 
 Sing  joy  full  Hdleluiahs  to  God  on  hfe. 
 
 3  3  Yet  arc  thefe,  but  as  Candles  to  the  Sunng, 
 Compared  with  the  conflant  Lerd  of  all : 
 Begin  we  with  his  apprehenfion. 
 When  his  DiTciples  all  from  him  do  fall. 
 
 Behold  him  in  the  high  Priefts  Ju<igment-hall : 
 See  Herods  men  of  warre  him  foul  dertde  : 
 Condemned  by  Pilate,  fcorn'd,  abus'd  of  all : 
 The  thcefs  that;  raileth,  hanging  by  his  (ide. 
 
 Yet  he  moft  valiant,  conflant^  pacient,  doth  abide^ 
 
 ^4  But  now  the  Son  afcendsd  is  above, 
 
 p  Th*  Apofllcs  will  their  Light  no  longer  hide^ 
 
 They  conftantly  before  the  Rulers  prove. 
 
 That  they  the  Lord  of  Life  had  crucifide  i 
 And  when  they  are  before  thofe  Rulers  rride^ 
 
 And  charg  d  to  preach  no  more  in  lefus  narae^ 
 
 They  mofl  couragious,  conflantly  replide. 
 
 Be  judges,  whether  it  were  greater  blame, 
 J  You  no\y  to  4ifobay ,  or  God^who  us  did  farmc. 
 
3Pi  OfCo^ftancj. 
 
 3  5  Paul  ready  is  not  oncly  to  be  b^nA., 
 
 But  at  lernfalem  for  Chnft  to  die  ; 
 
 y^tfocient  is  in  all  afflidions  found. 
 
 Confirm  in  loffes,  joy,  profpcrity : 
 Read  his  imprironments  brave  hiftory 
 
 You  there  (ball  more  divine  Ideas  findc 
 
 Then  Horner^  Virgil^  Spence^y  can  fupply. 
 
 Though  they  in  tokk^fir/ihis  the  form  have  lin'd 
 Of  a  moll  brave,  heroick,  conflant^  noble  minde. 
 
 3^  Thefe,  as  they  fkw  their  pattern  fet  before. 
 
 Unto  the  Races  end  mcll  cgnjlant  run , 
 
 But  yet  their  Forrttude  s  increafed  more. 
 
 By  Confidence^  that  he  which  hath  begun 
 So  good  a  work,  it  will  not  leave  undo  ne 
 
 Let  i>ivels  try  by  crolfes  and  tmtacion^ 
 
 Hold  conftayjt  to  th^^ud^  the  Crown  is  won. 
 
 Though  for  a  while  we  fuffer  cribulacion, 
 A  noble,  conftart  minde  (lands  without  peturbacion. 
 
 37   I  doe  confefs  tis  dificult  and  rare. 
 
 To  know  ones- felfe ;  but  to  be  (lill  the  fimr , 
 Is  cheifeft  work  of  all  the  v^orks  that  arc : 
 He  that  fo  c$nfiaHtlj  his  minde  can  frame, 
 De(ervcs  the  honour  of  a  confiant  nume : 
 Kc*s  near  to  glorioui  vertues  confummacivn ; 
 Hi«  foul  mindes  only  heav'n  from  whence  it  came^ 
 Secure  and  free  from  worlds  vain  moleftacion. 
 
 And  waits  heav'ns  Icifure  only  for  his  glad  tranflacion. 
 
 3^  Not  that  J  conflant  Idlcnefs  commend. 
 Or  a  retired  Life  monafticall ; 
 No,  Confi^nci  alwaics  Labour  doth  intencf^ 
 And  is  the  fame  approv'd  and  ktn  of  all : 
 Her  words,  looks,  gcfture,  arc  heroicall ; 
 (EcS makei  thcBody  (^rgng,  confirms  the  minde- 
 Ah  1  wo  to  them,  that  from  her  favour  fall. 
 And  leave  the  right,  the  crooked  way  to  findc; 
 
 Th;fe  grcivc  the  Angch,  which  to  guard  them  are  affign'd. 
 
 '  ^rant 
 
OfConfidncy.  3P3 
 
 3P  Grant  in  Profperity  a  prudent  hetrt. 
 
 And  in  Adverfity  &  mindc  upright ; 
 
 So  fhall  no  picafurcs  vain  my  Soul  pervert. 
 
 Nor  cr^ffcs  or  tcntations  me  affright  : 
 My  felf  I  with  Gods  blcllingswiii  delight, 
 
 So  long  as  plcafc  his  bounty  them  to  lend. 
 
 If  I  mud  fuffcr  here  for  doing  right, 
 
 I  to  the  Inftone  will  my  caufc  commend,. 
 Where  I  am  fure  to  have  juft  and  equal  end. 
 
 40  The  fW  whereon  all  that  is  pad  depends. 
 If  ttien  wc  have  a  conftant  rcfolucion, 
 A  holy  Life  (hall  bring  us  happy  ends. 
 Then  comes  our  Faic^  to  jufrcfb  rcvolucion : 
 
 We  then  o't  (^damslo^s  havercflituciorl 
 Ah  1  all  6mx  Labour  hath  but  been  in  vain. 
 If  Courage  faint  in  poynt  of  DifTolucion  : 
 This  is  the  hour  we  happinefs  attain. 
 Or  elce  for  ever  in  hels  torments  to  remain. 
 
 41  Lord  ever  make  me  mindful!  of  this  Hcur, 
 That  conftant  always  I  may  ftand  prepared. 
 Grant  me  with  boldnefs  to  declare  thy  pour^ 
 And  in  the  right  of  none  to  be  afeard  : 
 
 True  happinefs  is  Confiancies  reward, 
 A  high  reward,  but  he  it  fure  fliall  gain, 
 That  to  the  end  holds  out  with  du  regard. 
 Things  hardeil:,  Terfeverance  will  attain, 
 ^nd  ConfiancyWiW  make  them  ay  with  us  remain. 
 
 ^2  Then  Hand  we  firm,  in  what  we  have  begun,' 
 And  labour  conftant ly  more  to  obtain, 
 Lo,  thus  we  heavn  upon  the  earth  have  won  : 
 .Thus  vve  that  fr/<  ^fi^wmj  attain. 
 
 Which  ev'rv  wife  and  good  man  feeks  to  gain  ;' 
 No  Great nefs,  King, or  Kefar  is  fo  high. 
 As  thofe  that  over  their  ajje^ions  raign  ; 
 Here  Teacc  ofConfcience  brings  Sccuritj, 
 'dints  wilhcd  criie  conterit,  and  Afr-icls  \D  i^^ltj^  .    ^^^ ,  ^ 
 
^^^^  of  Confiancj, 
 
 :^  3  Moft  blcffed  Fort,  that  Pilgrims  can  attain  I 
 
 '^!  ill  they  arrive  ^thcav'n  of  Happinefs, 
 Pure  Joy  of  heart,  which  only  they  do  gain. 
 Where  hcav'ns  fwcet  Comforter  doth  dwel  in  peace 
 
 God  of  all  Comfort,  in  my  heart  increafe 
 This  Conftancicy  that  (he  may  me  defend 
 In  private,  pHhlich  iofs,  gain,  pain^p^^^e. 
 And  grant,  as  1  the  Graces  do  coitimend, 
 
 ;  may  in  ail  continu  conflant  to  the  end. 
 
 Authorii  Votnm. 
 
 Might  T  a  Life  enjoy  to  my  defire, 
 I  would  no  wealth,  or  honour  vain  require, 
 '^or  tr  jups  of  Horfemen  after  m.e  to  ride, 
 >iur  clouds  of  Servants  troupingby  my  fide  : 
 »i  private  fields,  and  Gardens  1  would  walk ; 
 :<ow  with  my  Mufe,  now  with  my  Friends  to  talk 
 :  By  Mufe  1  prayer  mean,  and  Meditaciofi; 
 :  Iv  Friendsy  a  holy  loving  Converjacion  ) 
 -v'r  Peace  with  all,  but  /// :  My  Confcience 
 l-oihgood  and^//z>r,  free  from  foul  offence  : 
 
 So  when  the  houcr  of  my  charfge  (liall  comcy 
 ]  with  a  willing  heart  will  leave  my  room, 
 .  o  whom  it  IS  ordainM  by  Beftinj : 
 'i  iws  1  deluc  to  Im,  and  thus  to  Mc^ 
 
 Utt^V 
 
Meditation     IV* 
 
 of  Court efy  er  HiiTrfanity, 
 
 ^  *T  ^"s  have  I  brought  the  Mufe^xom  ple;.ring  fhadcj 
 I  And  gentle  fweetefl/iW^ccw^;;  Spring, 
 To  Stoickj  School,  to  teach  her  in  the  trade 
 O^Confi^ncle^  and  firm  perleverlng :  , 
 ,  Some  CrnlckyJiW  me  blame  for  marOialiing 
 Cato  fevere,  with  Virgins  iwz^i  delight. 
 But  nothing  more  makes  for  their  honouring, 
 Than  with  that  noble  Tfrf;^  to  be  dighc. 
 Which  makes  them  high  accepted  ev^n  in  Princes  fight. 
 
 2  And  fure,  O  Kings,  your  wifedomes  cannot  find 
 More  prudent  S enato ar s  ,yom  States  to  (\v^\\ 
 Than  Mufes  friends,  which  have  a  conftant  mi*nd. 
 And  know  as  well  to  govern  as  obay  : 
 
 Who  by  their  Caurtrfie  and  Ccriflanre  may 
 Order  your  Hals,  and  wield  your  State-aifaires : 
 For  noble  Courtefic  and  Conflarice  ay 
 P^^oxn-^ings  Judgcmeni'Scits,  and  liar elv  ^/^/V/'y, 
 And  fb»angers  entertain,  that  to  your  Court  repairesi 
 
 3  "For  in  each  flourifhing  and  goodly  State, 
 Upon  the  royall  Perfon  of  the  King, 
 
 The  courteous  Courtier  hath  a  place  to  wait, 
 As  well  as  Senate  for  wife-governing : 
 
 Thcfe  both  muft  joyn  in  prudent  mana<5in<5 
 Of  fubjcd  Pro^/r^rf /,  and  to  entreat  , 
 Of  Leagues  with  Princes  on  them  bordering ; 
 .  But  he  for  all  employments  is  mod  meet, 
 WfJtrc  Cmrtefie  and  Onfinnce  both  together  grce.t.. , 
 
 C:r  \\^herefore 
 
3P<5  .        .  Of  Courtefy, 
 
 4  Wherefore  in  Court  of  Zorf/moflrdj4/  Queen, 
 Where  graces  all,  in  du  admihiflracion, 
 
 Are  in  moft  comely  order  placed  feen 
 
 For  Kingdoms  Peace  and  Princes  DclcBacion  : 
 
 ijehoid  tins  one  thing  worth  thy  obfervacion. 
 Brave  Condance  ay  with  Courefie  is  joyn'd. 
 For  all  men  do  obferve,  with  admiracion, 
 A  cofirteons  carriage^  with  a  condant  minde. 
 Adoring  ev'n  as  Gods  the  valiant  gentle  kinde. 
 
 5  For  fure  except  thefe  both  together  meet, 
 Confiance  alone 's  fo  rigid  and  fevcre,- 
 She  for  a  Pedagogue  is  far  more  meet, 
 That  Office  in  Loves  gentle  Court  co  bear  : 
 
 And,  if  that  Tingle  coHrtef.e  appear, 
 Without  this  refolute  m.ofl  confrant  Grace^ 
 She  is  but  api(J)  cempli^^'^.enty  to  blear, 
 Deiiolders  eys  with  Conges  and  a  face. 
 When  nought  that  in  her  looks,within  her  heart  hath  place 
 
 6  D^^'/i  the  heav'nly/1/^^j- darling  deary 
 An  j^/»^/r?»  of  Humanity  1  finde. 
 
 In  Camj)  he  is  undaunted,  without'fcar, 
 
 In  Court  of  conflant,  noble,  courteous  minde. 
 
 One  Jonathans  tru  love  to  him  euclin*d, 
 The  other  fmites  ev'n  i(o\MCi>liah  down, 
 Kis  (JM:iife  the  evil  Spirit  of  Saul  doth  binde, 
 And  rais'dhim  from  the  fould  to  high  renown. 
 And  fet  upon  his  royal  head  the  golden  Crown, 
 
 7  Tru  noble  Courtefiey  m.oH:  hea'vnly  Grace, 
 Mou  high  to  be  elleemM  and  reckoned 
 Of  all ;  but  mOil  of  thofe  whom  God  doth  place. 
 Above  their  brethren  to  be  honored  : 
 
 For  they  that  here  us  govern  in  his  flead, 
 Ought  like  their  Lord,  lo gem lenefs  incline,  (  dread. 
 
 Who,  though  his  Throne  fliines  round  with  lightning 
 With  coarteotis  conYttcnance  on  his  d©t«h  (bine, 
 Oh  gentle  King  me  grant  cl>is  Grace  aright  CO  I'ne. 
 
S  Gentlenefs^  Court efie^  Humamty^ 
 Divers  in  name,  in  nature  are  the  fame 
 Proceeding  from  the  mindes  integerity. 
 And  are  as  fparks  g^ Loves  celcTdal  flame  : 
 
 The  outward  fnews  which  complements  we  name. 
 Are  but  as  Sjmboles  of  her  heafcand  minde, 
 Ifthey  be  tru,  fhe  is  a  noble  Dame, 
 If  fcignM,{he  is  the  Jh^me  o^ woman-  kinde^ 
 Andfeeks  to /y  with  all,  where  (he  may  favour  finde, 
 
 ^   1  know  not  whether  I  maybctter  call 
 
 Her  Siffer,  or  the  Childc  oiGravitj^ 
 
 But  fure  I  finde  thefe  graces  all  in  all. 
 
 Delighting  in  each  others  Company  : 
 The  glory  of  all  fayr  Society, 
 
 Moil  reverend  and  amiable  Peers,  . 
 
 In  whom  ail  fwectnefs  fnines  with  Ma]eftj^ 
 
 Where  not  leaft  Oflsnt^zion  vain  appears, 
 Cheif  ornaments  of  Youth,  &  grace  of  filvcr  hairs* 
 
 ^  o   Both  do  proceed  from  one  I)a,mz  Sandity 
 And  both  employed  are  inreformacion 
 Of  manners  ;  but  in  hx^^Bumanity 
 A  man,  hmn^me^  like  to  his  Jiame  doth  fadiion 
 And  this  to  Poets  fahlss  gave  occalion, 
 To  tell  how  men  were  made  offiockj  ^nAflones^ 
 And  Beafts  turned  men^  by  Orpheus  his  perfwafion. 
 And  for  (he  thus  brought  men  to  live  as  one, 
 
 Am^hions  Harp  is-  faid  Thehes  wals  to  build  alone- 
 
 1 1    Yea  thofe,  that  in  Humanitj  tranfcended. 
 
 And  others  brought  unto  dz////>j. 
 
 Were  deified  Vfhtn  their  lives  were  ended. 
 
 And  ever  honour'd  of  Pofterity  : 
 Ah  !  what  more  princely  is  than  Courtefie^ 
 
 Thus  Kings  to  King  of  Heaven  mod  near  do  conif^ 
 
 When  favage  men  unto  Society 
 
 They  bring,  which  elfelike  furious  Bcafis  would  run, 
 And.cv'njnorc  cruel  to  themfelvesthan  Beads  become. .. 
 
 C  3  -Ihi:s 
 
I  2  Tnns  Courtefle  with  adamr.r.tine  band 
 Men  eyes  in  Friendrhip,  free  from  Envy's  rents, 
 lor  no  offence  can  pare  their  joyned  hand. 
 Where  genclencfs  interprets  friends  intents  ; 
 "  Where  Kindnefs  ever  Courtefies  prevents. 
 And  gratefull,  alwayes  drives  to  overcome. 
 As  Foes  by  Anves^  Trcinds  by  mumficencc ; 
 The  barbarous  and  iniblfnteft  groom 
 
 Poth  gentk,  kind,  benign,  by  ccnrtefie  become. 
 
 J  3  Man  is  the  weaked  cr  e::rure  God  hath  made. 
 For  where  all  elfe,  by  h^a-  'nly  Frovidcnce^ 
 Have  bo  dyes  ar  m'd'  gain  ft  Foes  that  them  invade. 
 And  rage  of  Times  by  Natures  muniments, 
 
 Manoniy  Vertu  hsthfor  his  defence. 
 This  gentle  vertu,  f\yee:Hum.anity, 
 With  loving  kind  and  tender  heart,  from  whence 
 Flow  PitU,  Aiercy^  Lqz'e^  Benignity, 
 
 Whereby  we  m.iituall  helps  to  others  beer  fupply. 
 
 14  For  thefe  Com f anions  are  to  gcntLncfs, 
 Which  make  her  heer  beloved  unto  all  ; 
 Svreet gyaciot4S  icokc~^y  ^^d  speeches gractftilnefs^ 
 Are  to  this  courteous  Lady  natural!. 
 
 To  which  fne  adding  Maicfly  withall. 
 And  ccmcly  Culz^c,  doth  fveal  mens  hearts  away, 
 a\v\A  free  ^romftem  morofiiy  and  gull     - 
 In  fweet  Tranquillity  and  Peace  doth  flay. 
 Immutable, without  bafe  perturbacion,  ay. 
 
 1 5  Far  from  the  bafe  morofe  and  cynnicall. 
 That  to  all  others  manners  are  averfe. 
 Who  are  fo  rrooked,  crofs,  and  critical!, 
 in  their  own  difpoficions  fo  perverfe. 
 
 No  friend  with  them  is  able  to  converfe. 
 Delighting  to  be  convcrfant  with  none. 
 But  fullcn,  truculent,  fo  flern  and  fierce. 
 You  ea()er  may  wring  water  from  a  flone 
 Tian  ?iirth  and  grnrle  words,  or  looks  from  fucfran  pn"! 
 
Of  Court c fie  jp^ 
 
 1 6  NetghhoHrhood^  Conntreys-L^vey  ^ffimtj. 
 Kindred,  and  Friendf'hip  are  coM  barren  names.^ 
 Such  neither  like  nor  love  the  Company 
 Ofhoficfi  Eqttalls^nor  of  gentle  '^DAtnes  : 
 
 This  Fice  m  cv'ry  man  ev'n  Nature  blames, 
 But  moll  in  Officers  o( Court  or  State, 
 For  court eoHs  Gravity  her  Courtier  frames  ; 
 Sweet,  gentle,  facile,  f  leafing,  delicate, 
 Fair  JlmAshounttom  P cares  in  all  to  imitate, 
 
 17  As  he  is  worthy  death  who  here  denyes 
 His  brother  Water  from  a  living  Spring, 
 Or  him  Suns  Cvomfortable  Beames  envyes. 
 
 Or  from  his  Candles  light,  light  borrowing,  \ 
 
 Or  to  direv't  aright  the  wandering  ; 
 So  he  is  mod  di)courteoiis,  inhumane, 
 Who  when  he  profit  may  to  others  bring^  ~] 
 
 Without  leaft  \Damr/iage  to  himfelfe,  or  blame 
 Yet  to  his  brother  churliihly  denyes  the  fame. 
 
 18  Humanity's  like  faireft/z^/j-flower 
 
 With  fiiken  leaves,  w^hich  bud  doth  yet  inclofe. 
 Which  fair  difpreading  by  fweet  Natures  power 
 h  s  fhee  doth  wax  broader  and  fweeter,  bloues  ; 
 
 No  flower  in  Loves  fayreft  Garden  growes. 
 That  more  delights  the  fmell,  affcds  the  eye. 
 But  as  rrom.  root  bright  hen  and  fweetnefs  flowes. 
 So  from  the  heart  fprings  faireft  Conrtefj^ 
 Elfe  as  the  FUwer  fades,  fo  dies  Humamtj. 
 
 ip  For  as  a  gentle  heart  it  felfe  bewrayes. 
 
 By  doing  courteous  deeds  with  free  delight, 
 
 Ev'n  fo  bafe  dunghill  mind  it  felf  difplayes. 
 
 In  malice,  churlilhnefs,  revenge  and  fpight ; 
 
 Humamtj  isFreindftiips  cheifeft  might, 
 
 ■  Ftes  nctneilert  Bounty  s  greateft  Fame  y 
 Than  to  accept  more  ready  to  requite, 
 Gifts  arc  to  her  like  Oyl  pour'd  on  the  flame. 
 
 Which  more  and  more  h^r  heart  with  freindlvlcve  inflfuT: ». 
 
 C4  '  -^ 
 
-o  As  blowing  on  hot  coals  chcm  more  cnflamM, 
 Bu  t  water  on  chcm  pour'd  extinguifhech  ; 
 io  bitter  words  enrage,  but  fofc  redaimes : 
 One  ire  appeafcth,  th'  other  kindieth  : 
 
 And  as  more  fate  on  Sea  he  travclleth, 
 That  paflcth  on  with  fofc  and  gentle  blalt. 
 Than  whom  full  Say  Is  like  arrow  carrieth  : 
 So  frands  the  twAc^^wq^i gentle  man  more  fail. 
 
 Than  he  whofe  furious  mood  bears  all  before  in  haft. 
 
 21  As  luke-warm  water  cools  an  cnflam.acion, 
 '^0  court eotis  Langtiage^angtr'^^Ci^Qs^ 
 And  as  wilde  horfe  is  camM  by  milde  tradacion, 
 So  cruel  foes  are  wen  hy  cjurtefies'. 
 Wc  eafier  cur  mofr  ravage  enemies 
 Subdu  by  Cjenthnefs^  than  cruelty, 
 Wilde  Hawks,the  Faulkner  furer  to  him  ties. 
 By  handling  gently,  and  familiarly, 
 
 Than  if  he  never  fuffer  d  them  from  fifl  to  fly, 
 
 2  2  The  Bou^h  by  gintlcntfs  is  etfjly  bent. 
 Which  handled  boyftroufly  v;ould  break  in  funder. 
 Thus  fiercefl  i,'«//is  with  thej#x^contenc, 
 And  ufwr/f^f/i  brings  cruel  T/^fr/  under; 
 
 'Philcfophers affirm  that  dint  otTlmndcr, 
 Both  never  hurt  v^hcrc  it  dothjee/dhg  finde, 
 Jc  rr.eks  the  h/adc^  and  ycc  behold  and  wonder  ! 
 The  fcabbcrd's  not  confum'd,  rt  bones  doth  grinde. 
 
 An  1  yet  theyeelding  ficfh  is  neither  fccrch'd  nor  pin*d. 
 
 23  Wifely  faid  he,  that  thought  wife  men  below 
 :^liOuld  not  be  mov'd  with  thofe  which  do  offend, 
 But  \There  they  vices  finde  increafe  and  grow, 
 Should  furive  and  do  their  befl  them  to  amend  ; 
 I  ike  good  Vhyfici.rris^  who  when  they  attend 
 J/l  eir  P^xie'/fts^  arc  not  angry  with  their  fir,  . 
 V;;t  to  the  r^?r,  bcfi  skill  and  cunning  bend  : 
 rV^  f.ll  are  ^ons  of  £t/^,we  fin  commit, 
 
 •  ^  moft  like  to  God ,  that  here  amcndeth  it. 
 
OfCmrtefti.      ^  401 
 
 24  Uum/mitit  may  have  a  threefold fenfc, 
 
 Mahs  Nature,  Vertu^  and  his  educdcioft. 
 
 In  hnman  Arts,  and  pure  Intelligence ;  ^ 
 
 From  whence  flie  feems  to  have  dtnominaton  : 
 And  therefore  Liberal  Arts  by  ev'ry  Nacion, 
 
 Are  caird  the  fiudies  othftmamtj. 
 
 And  breed  in  man  a  conrteens  cunverfacion. 
 
 With  gentle  manners  and  civilitj. 
 Which  onely  heav'ns  bcftow  on  Mnfes  Nnrferj* 
 
 2  5  And  hence  it  is,  that  ruflick  BoQrs  and  Clowns, 
 Who  want  the  good  of  civil  educacion, 
 Sorude  and  ruftick  are  in  Countrcy  towns. 
 When  thofe,  that  have  with  Mnfes  converfacion. 
 
 Or  near  to  Trinces  Ctnrts  their  habitacion. 
 Become  more  civil^  fmable,  kinde ; 
 Hence'tis  that  ev'ry  rude  and  favage  nacion. 
 Where  gentle  Arts  abide  not,  are  inclin'd 
 
 To  ruflick  force,  and  favage  cruelty  of  minde. 
 
 26  No  greater  Grace  the  heav'ns  to  man  afford. 
 Than  gentle  breeding  up  in  heav'nly  lore. 
 
 By  thews  and  holy  knowledg  to  accord 
 Their  wrathful]  furious  Paflions  evermore  : 
 
 Plato iht  Gods  immortal  doth  adore. 
 That  they  him rsafemable  made,  no  Bea^ ; 
 A  Man^  no  JVoman  :  But  it  glads  him  more. 
 That  he  knew  human  Arts,  ^ind  heav'nly  hefl, 
 By  which  he  thought  himfelf  in  life  and  death  moft  Mefl. 
 
 27  The  Emperour  Trajan  when  his  friends  him  blame 
 As  carelefs  of  imperial  Maiefty, 
 
 Becaufe  fo  milde  fwcet,  gentle  he  became 
 And  affable  to  all  his  company  ; 
 
 Said,  he  would  fo  be  in  high  SoY*feignty 
 To  others  :  as  if  elfe  he  privat  were. 
 He  wifh'd  to  finde  the  royal  Dignity, 
 With  whom  all  good  men  ought  be  free  from  fear,' 
 Butcruelvile,  rr^alicious,  never  (hould  corr^.e  there. 
 
402  of  Court efy. 
 
 28  Thill^^  who  had  by  Liberality 
 
 Obliged,  as  he  thought,  to  him  a  Nation, 
 
 Received  nought  but  Scorn  for  Courtefte^ 
 
 Wherfore  his  Coortters,rriov'd  with  indignacion, 
 Periwade  their  King  unto  revenge  and  Paffion  / 
 
 5oft,  faid  the  Prince,  if  thefe  men  do  requite 
 
 Our  benefits,  in  fuch  a  fcornfuU  falhion. 
 
 They  us  for  injuries  will  more  defpight : 
 Tru  pattern  of  a  prudent,  paeient,  gentle  Knight 
 
 a5>  Isfurj  barren  then  o^ gentle  ^ttd  f 
 
 Becaule  I  only  of  the  Nacions  tell. 
 
 The  lives  o^vtAhram,  Ifaac^fo/eph  read, 
 
 And  fee  how  they  in  (^o^rtefte  excel! : 
 When  as  betwixt  the  Heardmen  ftcifc  befell, 
 
 Ahr^.m  leaves  to  bis  nephew  Lot  the  Plaia, 
 
 His  Qomtefie  the  Angels  greets  fo  well 
 
 Their  errand  gently  they  to  him  explain. 
 Yea  gracious  God  to  him  familiar  talk  did  dain. 
 
 30  Mofl  gentle  lacoh^  courteous  like  thy  Slre^ 
 Though  Lahan  ckptrlifilj  thee  handled  ; 
 Let  all  thy  paeient  genrlenefs  admire. 
 When  thou  didilfee  thy  Dim  raviflied. 
 
 And  for  her  Rape  a  Nacion  flanghtcred  : 
 Thy  gentle  lofeph  into  Egypt  fold. 
 Who  when  he  fees  his  bretnren  humbeled. 
 Could  not  his  heart  and  eyes  from  weeping  hold. 
 The  Dreamcs  thus  proving  tru  which  he  before  had  told. 
 
 31  Though  i'/?/?^?/ bark,  D^W  forbids  to  fmite. 
 Oh  let  him  curfe,  my  fon  me  feeks  to  kill : 
 The  Lord  with  Bleflings  may  his  Curfe  requite^ 
 If  in  his  favour  I  continu  ftill, 
 
 I  fhall  return,  elfc  be  it  as  he  will 
 Mefhibopjcth  muft  have  his  fathers  Land, 
 And  at  his  Tabic  eat  of  Bread  his  fill^ 
 Chimham  in  oXdi'Bar^dlats  room  (hall  ftand. 
 And  nothing  be  deny'd  him  at  King  Davids  hand 
 
of  Coitrtefy,  403" 
 
 3  2  But  Kings  and  People,  all  {tzxngetttUne^e 
 Of  our  moftcourteous  gcntleiC/^^  rf^f^gs^ 
 Who  when  he  walk'c  on  earth  in  lowlinefle. 
 And  was  the  Lord  ^nd  yK?^r  of  all  things. 
 Never  uPd  bitter  words  nor  chreacnings. 
 But  was  to  mranefi^  courteous,  gentle,  mild ; 
 The  Lord  rehnks  thee^  Michael  only  fings 
 When  Satans  malice  would  have  him  beguird 
 O^Mofes  body ;  but  he  never  hinireviW. 
 
 53  As  of  the  head,  fo  of  the  members  learn 
 
 rMildnefs^  HHmanitj,  and  Gentlenefs  : 
 
 Speeches  morofe^  and  countenances  ftern 
 
 Never  agree  with  worth  2indnobienefs , 
 Nor  to  the  vejfels  of  tru  hoUnefs  : 
 
 And  Dames  that  foft  and  tender  are  by  kind, 
 
 Adorned  with  Natures  goodliefl:  graceful nefie. 
 
 Be  gentle,  humble,  foft  and  meek  in  mind, 
 So  you  with  God  and  Man,  (hall  grace  and  favour  find, 
 
 34   No  vcrtufo  adorns  a  valiant  man, 
 Nor  ve.rtuous  Dame,whom  valiant  men  do  love. 
 As  Courtefie,  which  befl:  dired  them  can 
 To  bear  themfclves  in  all  as  doth  behove  : 
 
 Whether  themGod  hath  placet  to  rule  above. 
 Or  wait  below,  it  them  befits  to  know 
 Their  Duties,  that  none  juflly  may  reprove 
 Their  rudenefs,  in  not  giving  what  they  ow  : 
 
 Who  gives  each  man  his  due,doth  great  difcrecion  fiiow. 
 
 3  5  Nothing  more  wins  mens  hearts  then  gentle  words. 
 Nor  their  affedions  then  fwcet  looks  delight. 
 If  Men,  like  Beafts,(hould  make  the  ftrongefi:  Lords, 
 And  be  enrag'd  one  at  anothers  fight. 
 Society  of  men  would  perrifh  quite. 
 The  rules  ofPolicyes  and  Stdtes  would  fay! ; 
 Mens  lives  (hould  be  in  hazzard  of  each  wight. 
 That  them  by  force  or  cunning  would  aHay  1, 
 
 Yea  favagc  Beafts  againft  their  weaknefs  would  prevayl. 
 
4C4  Of  ^iurrejte-  .     - 
 
 36- Rude  manners  thok  that  have  them  do  infcn*^ 
 And  grievous  are  to  all  they  deal  withalJ, 
 But  gentlenefs  in  Angels,  Man,  and  Beafl, 
 Is  much  commended  and  belov'd  of  all : 
 
 The  P$ets  want  the  Gods,  in  heavn  to  call 
 Moft  gentle,  bountiful],  and  amiable ; 
 But  tiends  and  Furies,  cruel,  tetrical. 
 To  firll  they  Temples  build,  and  prayers  fable. 
 
 Counting  th'other  dreadfull  and  abominable. 
 
 37  I't  Socrates  a  froward  wife  would  bear. 
 
 As  men  r  ide  horfes  wilde ;  that  they  may.  know 
 
 To  rule  them  better  that  well  tamed  were. 
 
 Much  more  (hould  Chriflian^  fweetly  bear  the  blow 
 
 Of  proud  and  cruel  worldlings  here  below  : 
 And  not  to-grieve  at  their  profperitie. 
 Though  here  they  feem  in  wealth  and  blifs  to  flow, 
 Alas  fuch  fland  in  places  flippery. 
 And  in  their  haughty  pride  (hall  perilh  fuddenly. 
 
 38  Who  that  moft  wicked  SeSi  do  imitate. 
 
 That  would  all  friendfhip  and  acquaintance  fhun. 
 That  they  miight  here  enjoy  more  happy /^fr, 
 ^nd partners  of  no  others  lofs  become  : 
 One  burthen  is  enough  for  any  one. 
 Oh  !  why  fliould  others  lofTes  them  moleft  : 
 By  this  is  all  Hnmanitj  undone. 
 And  man  made  more.ungentle  than  a  beaft. 
 Tile  Heathen  therefore  did  fuch  beaftlinefs  deteft. 
 
 t>9  "ThcfirfigmdlpecUrDuty^whichvfCOVr^ 
 
 Is  Love  to  God,  which  we  call  Piety ; 
 
 Next^  is  the  Merfj  we  to  men  do  fhow. 
 
 And  this  indeed  is  tru  Hnmanltj  : 
 This  is  the  fum  of^liDivinitj; 
 
 And  this  to  Piety  doth  Pratlice  joyn  ; 
 
 Alllove  the  Lord  in  words,  but-do  deny 
 
 Their  hearts  and  hands  to  Mercy  to  incline. 
 Cod  grant  they  both  in  us  together  may  combine. 
 
 lie. 
 
of  Court ejie,  40  J 
 
 40  Chief  *Band  kmong(^  men  is  Humamtj^ 
 Which  who  would  break,  deferves  eternal  pain. 
 From  one  man  all  derive  thtiv pedigree , 
 
 And  therefore  Kin/men  all  inhim  remain  : 
 
 Trom  one  God,  we  out  fonts  do  all  obtain. 
 And  fo  we  brethren  are,  and  nearer  joyn'd 
 In  Soul  than  Body  :  And  we  hope  in  vain, 
 Ifallintoo^f /7e'rf^benotconjoyn'd,  ^ 
 
 And  feel  not  all  ofie  Sfmt  working  in  our  minde, 
 
 41  Inhuman  cruel  Beafts  1  which  take  delight 
 Without  juft  caufe  Gods  image  to  dcftroy. 
 Torment,  kill,  torture,  cruelly  defpighr. 
 When  God  would  have  all  live  in  amity 
 
 Oh  meafure  others  by  thy  mifery  1 
 No  man  without  anothers  ayd  can  live, 
 He  that  denies  help  in  adverfirie, 
 None  at  his  need  unto  him  (hall  give, 
 As  none  fhall  be  forgiv'n,  that  doth  not  here  forgive. 
 
 42  No  man,  that  doth  obey  Dame  Nat  tires  heft. 
 Can  hurt  a  man,  much  lefs  him  fpeil  or  kilt : 
 Learn  of  the  gentle,  meek,  and  h^rmlefs  beaf!", 
 Kow  he  Soci^rj  doth  covet  ftill : 
 
 The  Shepheards^^»r/d'  Flocks  the  Plains  do  fill. 
 Wolves,  Bears  and  Tygres  love  to  Lord  alone  : 
 Where  they  their  yong  ones  with  the  fat  may  fill. 
 And  forrage  all  the  Countrey  for  their  own, 
 Lo  Mercy  there  is  flrange,  where  Mifcry's  unknown, 
 
 43  Such  in  their  Complement  are  onely  kiadc  ; 
 And  where  they  kindnefs  may  receive  again. 
 Oh  be  mine  heart  to^f;?^/^;^^/}  indindc  i 
 Not  for  bafe  recompence,  reward,  or  gain, 
 
 But  for  his  fake,  who  for  my  (in  was  flam  ; 
 But  over-coHrteouflj  I  do  abufe 
 My  Readers  p^cjfAire',  with  ungentle  flraln, 
 Yet  if  he  gentle  be,  he  cannot  chufe. 
 But  my  moft  willing  minde,  though  not  my  Verfe  excufe. 
 
 Mi^DI- 
 
Meditation    V. 
 
 of  Cravit). 
 
 MY  Alufe  now  fares  like  fome  Gecmetriciart; 
 That  having  vciu'd  on  gul^e  terreftriall 
 The  Earth,  and  like  a  good  CMathsmMticUfty 
 Caftup  the  Meafure  of  her  craggy  Bail, 
 
 Now  thinks  that  all  doch  in  his  Compafsfall, 
 But  fayling  forth  by  Ccmpafs^  ^^r^,  and  Stnn^ 
 With  his  own  eyes  it  to  difcover  all. 
 He  many  lies  ^nd  Regions  doth  difcern, 
 Which  never  by  the  Map  he  able  was  to  learn = 
 
 2  So  when  I  firfl  in  VertHes  Afaps  had  read, 
 Of  all  the  Graces  link'd  in  gi>Idc?i  Ch,:in^ 
 
 I  thought  I  had  them  all  difc  overed, 
 And  able  was  their  Natures  to  explain. 
 
 But  more  that  I  do  labour  and  take  pain. 
 To  tell  their  Numbers,  Nature,  Qualities, 
 More  numberlefs  1  find  their  glorious  train. 
 And  more  admire  their  Grace  and  Dignities, 
 And  more  of  them  I  write,  the  more  my  Mnfe  defcrycs* 
 
 3  But  none  more  fair  I  can  amongit  them  find. 
 Than  next  I  write  of  comely  Gravity 
 Which  as  I  faid,  goes  linked  and  combined 
 With  gentle,  noble,  fweet  HHfhAnitj, 
 
 Whom  follow  Conftancy  and  Chal^itj 
 Attending  alwayes  on  thisflAttly  ^eer^ 
 Who  for  hox  venerai^lc  Majefty, 
 Is  to  the  Qntcn  efLove  her  fe If 9  moft  ^e^r,' 
 hni  alwayes  tires  Uer/iff  ,whigh  <:9HrfftQ  waiheth  clear^ 
 
of  Gravity.         ^  ^  ^of 
 
 4  IsIoW  hcl^  O  he^v'nly  Qneen  \  and  Qracesfalr^ 
 Her  to  adorn  that  beatify's  you  all. 
 
 And  lift  my  Mnfe  to  fly  above  the  ayr^ 
 Oh  never  let  my  fit  and  fury  fall, 
 
 Whil'ft  I  defcribe  this  Grace  Majeflicall, 
 Which  with  her  comely  prefencc  doth  adorn 
 The  Temfle^  judgment-Seat^  and  Princes  Hail, 
 "With  Academies y  where  thtMnfe  was  born. 
 And  ay  defends  the  ancient  from  the  youngers  fcorn, 
 
 5  She  is  an  inward  jplendonr  of  the  mind. 
 
 Which  makes  the  whole  man  gracious,  commendable. 
 The  outward  manners  which  in  herVi^  find. 
 Her  lookes  and  geftures,  fair  and  delegable. 
 Are  but  as  3eames  of  that  bright  admirable 
 Tranfcendent  Grace^  which  in  her  heart  doth  fhine. 
 To  make  words,  lookes,  and  anions  venerable. 
 And  Dignity  and  Cemelinejfe  to  joyn. 
 With  manners  SanBitj,  which  make  a  man  Divine. 
 
 6  For  fure  all  reverend T^fw^f/  o^ Gravity 
 Are  but  externall^oo^expof'd  to  fight, 
 Exccpc  they  have  faft  rooting  inwardly^ 
 
 And  from  the  heart  receive  their  Splendour  bright. 
 
 As  Majefiy  is  without  GoodnefsX^^t^ 
 So's  Gravity  without  true  hs/tnefs, 
 Tis  that  which  makes  ns grave^  and  to  delight 
 In  fober  honefty,  and  comelincfs. 
 And  to  be  patterns  of  all  Grace  and  godlinefs. 
 
 7  She  is  that  holy  Law  and  Rule  •f  Life, 
 Of  Confiancy  and  gracious  manners  born. 
 Free  from  lafcivioui  Love^  or  cauflefs/r//^. 
 And  ever  doth  moil  glorioufly  adorn 
 
 Him,  before  whom  her  glorious  Enfign's  born. 
 She  IS  not  lowring  hard^  to  equals  proud. 
 To  betters  hafe,  nor  doth  inferioursfcom^ 
 tAffiring^  wanton,  loofe^  exulting,  lowd^ 
 Her  habit ^  look,  attire,  ail  mtdefry  doth  (luoud. 
 
4^8  OfgrAvfty 
 
 S  Her  Ornaments  arc  not  Wealthy  Strength,  or  Poifi^er:, 
 SumftuoHs  apparely  decking  Limhs^  or  face, 
 S^^eet  C^aftitj  of  Manners  is  her  Bo^er, 
 Her  otit'^ard  farts  adorn  d  with  inward  Grace  : 
 Thcfc  be  the  Ornaments ^thzt  mod  her  grace. 
 Not  made  by  any  skilfull  hand,  or  Art ; 
 Fertu  the  Queen  of  all  things  did  enchacc 
 Thcfc  works  of  wondrous  Glory  in  her  heart. 
 
 Wherewith  fie  now  adorns  and  graceth  every  part. 
 
 9  By  thefe/;f  rafting  out  al!  ferttirhacion. 
 Perpetual  tranquility  itmns, 
 And  {bines  in  grace,  which  at  her  firfl  Creacioa, 
 She  from  the  Fountain  of  all  Grace  obtains. 
 And  thus  (he  tru  immotral  honour  gains. 
 Not  that  which  leans  on  popular  vain  bUfl ; 
 But  that  whereby  the  ^ecn  of  Vert u  raigns 
 And  ftands  upon  her  vertuou^  thought^  fo  fafl. 
 She  from  the  pitch  of  honour  cannot  be  difpias'c 
 
 I  o  Hence  tis,  that  who  can  to  this  pitch  attain. 
 
 Admits  of  nought  unfeemly  to  be  done. 
 
 His  mindc  no  evil  cogitacions  flain. 
 
 His  ac^lions  chafl:  as  minde  from  whence  they  come. 
 
 Many  indifferent  things  are  fit  for  fome. 
 Which  fome  mott grave  and  noble  ill  befeem  ; 
 It  doth  no  ludg  or  LMagijhate  become 
 In  fervants  habit  publick  to  be  fe^n 
 VVhat  Cotintrej-O^laidQommtndiS^ccMy  ill  bcfccm  a  Qj^eHo 
 
 II  Juflly  did  P/?///^  reprehend  his  Son, 
 When,  to  the  Harp,  he  heard  him  fwcctly  fing. 
 This  well,  faith  he,  foft  Ladies  doth  become. 
 But  Drutns  and  Trumpets  befl  befeem  a  King ; 
 
 It  is  f6r  Clarkj  no  commendable  thing. 
 To  Hunt,  Ha^X,  2Lnd great  Horfe  (otfervice  tralnj 
 V  Vhich  highefi  grace  to  Gentlemen  doth  bring. 
 Poets  may  witty  pleafanp/^«oA;j  fain, 
 
 Which  in  digr^vl  "Divine  ^OMi  be  accounted  vain. 
 
 '-^'  ~'  Ishti 
 
1 2  Man  in  Gcdf  Image  to  be  like  a  Beafl, 
 
 Neigh  like  a  Horfe,  grunt,  fwiil,  like  to  a  Swinr^ 
 Such  things  doth  Gravitj  as  bafe  dctcfl, 
 Equalitj  and  Comelinefs  do  fnine, 
 
 In  her  voice,  Jpceches,  countenance  divide  ; 
 li^ g^ing,  fitting, ^efinre,  and  devotions  ; 
 She  words  pcrpkxt,  contentions,  doth  decline, 
 PUin,  coKJlant,  refoUte,  are  all  her  motions,  (org. 
 
 Proceeding  from  her  hearts,  pure,  wife,  and  heav'nly  noii- 
 
 1 3  Her  words  tly  not  at  random,  all  do  flow 
 From  Fountain  of  pure  underftanding  heart  \ 
 Her  gcfturcs  are  not  quick,  nor  yet  coo  flow. 
 Sweetly  fevere,  confid'rat  in  each  part : 
 
 Her  look's  not  cruel,  nor  composed  by  .  f . ;% 
 Grave  and  icvere,  yet  gentle,  liberal. 
 Sweet  ViifirU  of  the  Graces  I  whr!rc  thou  aii 
 ,    They  are  mofl  gracious  and  comely  ail. 
 Wherefore!  them  thy  SckoUrs  all  aright  may  caiL 
 
 14  Nay  rather  thy  campanions :  Poets  feign 
 e^^rr^ cali'd  from  Heav'n,  with  ^/ji-^  eo  dwGjj^ 
 And  to  put  ail  her  Nymphs  to  thee,  to  trkin 
 Them  up  in  Virtu  as  befeemcch  well : 
 
 To  men  z\\ gmcefpfll  manners  thou  dof}  tell. 
 Thou  teachefl  Kings  to  rule  their  SHbjttb  right^ 
 Fathers  th^irDtitjes  to  their  Si^ns  to  fpeli. 
 Servants  to  Mafters,  Lady  to  her  Knight, 
 No  Policy  or  Force  without  thee  rules  aright. 
 
 15  Happy  are  they  1  ^^o«  tcacheft  to  cfchcw 
 All  levity y  VAin  fear,  and  ofientaciorSj 
 ^JMorofe,  rough  manners,  taunts,  reproach  undu^ 
 Which  fhcws  a  minde  fubjed:  to  perturbacion, 
 
 Dehghting  in  another*  moledacion  : 
 Thcfe  are  like  Scorfujfts,  whofe  maligaity, 
 To  all,  com^s  from  their  natures  inchnation.  -- 
 
 ,  And  from  their  Malice  comes  K^orcjlty, 
 kntk  CO  all,  but  niQft  to  Trfith  a nd  hon-?:l v . 
 
 Dd  Aj 
 
410'  Of  Gravitj. 
 
 1 6  As  Vrdins  which  hath  pricks  upon  his  skin, 
 'Mongft  Thorns,  and  Bryers  ahvays  takes  delight. 
 So  in  all  bufincfs  thefe  enter  in, 
 
 1  hey  ufe  more,  uncivil,  barb'rous  might ; 
 
 They  bring  within  them  Malice,  Gall  and  Spight. 
 How-evcr  be  the  thing  wherein  they  deal 
 Oh  God  forbid  1  fuch  bafe  malicious  Sprite 
 Be  ever  Judg  in  ludahs  Common-weal : 
 Such  take  large  Toul^  but  never  care  to  grinde  the  mcaL 
 
 17  Som  days  Euripus  fev'n  times  ebbs  and  flows, 
 Som  other  days,  not  flows  nor  ebbs  at  all. 
 The  moving  of  this  River's  like  to  thofe. 
 That  have  not  Cjravitj  habitual'. 
 
 Unlike  thcmfelvcs,  loofe,  fparing,  prodigal^ 
 Idle  precipite,  vain,  for  either  part 
 Moft  earnefl-,  vehement,  pathetical, 
 Thefe  their  own  bulinefs  and  friendg  pervert, 
 F  or  want  of  Gravity^  and  Qonfimce  in  their  heart. 
 
 1 8  But  Gmvitie  is  like  the  Ocean  Afain^ 
 
 Into  whofe  TreafHre  all  the  Flouds  do  flow. 
 Which  he  as  GonfS:antly  fends  out  a^ain. 
 Yet  hereby  doth,  nor  lefs,  nor  greater  grow. 
 He  neitherfwels,  nor  banks  doth  overflow^ 
 When  g^t^icrfums  his  Tribntarics  pay. 
 Nor  is  bafe  fparing,  when  their  pay  is  flow. 
 The  windes  may  tois  his  waves  but  not  dilmay, 
 Kc  fmiles  fo  foon  to  fee  his  troubles  blown  away. 
 
 J 9  As  Ccnfor  in  the  Semtte-honfe  of  iv«wf, 
 So  is  this  Grace  amongft  the  Graces  all ; 
 And  as  none  might  into  the  Senate  come, 
 But  thofe  whom  he  did  in  his  Confcript  call : 
 
 So  none  may  come  into  the  (Jraces  Hall, 
 But  they  muft  be  confcrib'd  by  Gravity, 
 •^nd  thofe  (lie  will  not  have  come  there  at  all, 
 Slie  paffeth  by  them  for  their  Levity,  " 
 
 '  jichcoatiience  hiive  aliia  her  iiitegritice 
 
OfGrAvltjl 
 
 2®  But  fhe  mOil  like  ig  to  the  glorious  Stfn] 
 Whofc  chearfull  countenance  is  flili  the  fame ; 
 And  like  him  conllantly  one  courfe  doth  run. 
 Of  which,  j^f  never  weary  is  or  lame  : 
 
 From  him's  all  elemental  heat  and  flame. 
 With  htr  ail  lively  fpiritual  doth  dwell 
 He  lightens  all  with  his  enlightening  beam. 
 Sins,  Clouds,  and  Ignorance  fhe  doth  expeli 
 
 Sil  Princcof  Lights,  j^^f  of  all  Graces  beares  the  bell, 
 
 21  She*s  like  that  Breathy  which  God  is  faid  to  breath 
 Into  mans  face  for  immortality, 
 Wis  own  fwect  Ima^e^  which  he  did  bequeath 
 To  Adi^m,  Rlghteoufnefs^  and  Sanclity  : 
 
 For  where  is  inward  holy  gravity. 
 All  graces  Jpiritfial  ret  likewife  found. 
 Where  ^r^z/f  and  mdefl  outward  Courtefy, 
 There  outward  comely  graces  all  arc  found. 
 
 Without  the  one  we  never  findc  the  other  found. 
 
 '11  No  firmer,  or  more  ready  muniment, 
 'Gainfl  Envie^CMallce  and  each  enemie,   ' . 
 That  here  mankinde  affail,  and  circumvent. 
 Than  high,  ^MdmQ^grAve  Manners  majeilic ; 
 
 Who  outward  hath  and  inward  Gravity, 
 Concords  with  all  without,  hath  Peace  within. 
 Of  Virtues  all  confent,  and  Unity, 
 ,  Gods  Image  thus  renewed,  doth  here  begin, 
 In  humane  flefli  to  vanquifh  Lufi:,  and  mortal  Sin. 
 
 ^  3  Old  Ages  honour,  garland  of  gray-hairs, 
 
 Moft  ample  orders  Grace,  and  dignity. 
 
 The  highefl  feats  o^  Inftice^  richeft  chairs 
 
 Of  State,  from  her  have  all  their  majcfty  : 
 She  fways  the  Scepter  of  high  Sovereignty, 
 
 The  fayreft  Cope  which^/ir#»j  fons  do  wear, 
 
 Swe^t,  rev'rcnd,  amiable  Gravity  / 
 ,  To  thee  I  nothing  finde  fit  to  compare, 
 A!l  Smik'i  biit  fhidows  to  thy  fubilancc  are. 
 
 Dd  2  Ti 
 
41  i  OfCravltj. 
 
 24  For  in  the^r^t'f  and  rev'rend  do  fhinc 
 All  Goodftcls,  Conllancy,  and  Sapience, 
 The  Manners  which  were  in  the  goJden  time. 
 The  Age  when  reigned  Right  and  Innocent  e, 
 
 Before  Debate,  Strife,  and  Malevolence 
 Were  haccht,  fince  flcdg,  now  caught  aloft  to  fore  , 
 Inveterat  in  reprobated  Senfe, 
 Habituated  fo  in  Vices  lore, 
 They  feoff  at ^r/i-jf  Examples,  all  chat  went  before. 
 
 25  Ac  firfV,  I  fay.  when  in  th^ gehUn  A:e, 
 
 .  Grave  Saturn  did  Olympus  Scepter  fway, 
 Of  high  efceem  were  then  the  Ancient  Sage, 
 And  mortals  all  did  their  behe'iis  obay  ; 
 But  fince  Jove  did  by  violent  c  betray 
 His  Futher,  and  afpired  to  his  Cvi-irn, 
 Si  verer  GrAvitj  is  driv'n  9  way  : 
 The  Jovial  men  areonely  of  renoiin^ 
 Grave  SatttrH  on  their  Lufts  too  rigidly  doth  froun. 
 
 26  As  long  as  Sve  maintains  her  Gravitj, 
 So  long  in  her  Integrity  fi?e  (lood  ; 
 
 But  when  ncglcding  Gr^ce  and  MajefTy^ 
 She  of  her  vaffnl  learns  tbe  ill  from  gocd. 
 
 The  Serpent,  with  his  bafe  malicious  broodj^ 
 Soon  brings  her  to  an  cverlafting  blame  ; 
 She  evil  did,  and  evil  underflood, 
 And  fc€ks  to  hide  her  naked  parts  from  (Tiame, 
 Which  perfiiTt  Natures  Gravity  did  never  blame. 
 
 27  O  wondrous  Grace  of  heav'nly  Gravity ^ 
 li  in  her  likcnefs  fhc  fliould  here  appear  1 
 But  yidsim  loft  her  With  I»regritj, 
 Since,  (he  could  never  be  difcerncd  clear  : 
 
 But  when  our  H^^^with  usconverfed  here, 
 Onely  fomc  Beams  he  plea  fee  h  to  beflow 
 Upon  his  members  to  himfelf  moftdear, 
 Whereby  they  (bint like httle  Lampf^t\o^^\ 
 Ani^  as  he  irnds  them  lighr,  they  greater  Icfler  fhow. 
 
 If 
 
Qf  Gravity,  ^i^ 
 
 28  If  you  Examples  of  this  Grace  it^wc^ 
 
 You  muft  the  Father s  Lives  and  Storycs  reade. 
 
 She  »  continacd  habit  doth  require, 
 
 Nor  h  exprcfTed  in  a  finglc deed, 
 1  eafier  to  you  could  their  flips  arecd, 
 
 As  Noahgravt!  yet  overtane  with  Wine, 
 
 And  Lot  thus  puni(ht  with  inccfluous  deed, 
 
 1  read,  that  once  ev'n  Ahram  did  decline , 
 And  tainting,  fell  from  this  high  Gr^vitj  divine. 
 
 25?  Could  I  now  Uh  here  pidure  in  a  Verfe, 
 1  might  her  comlicfl  feature  to  you  fhow, 
 Rcade  his  whole  Life ,  I'onely  will  rehearfc 
 What  he  would  have  his  unjuft  Friends  to  know : 
 
 Did  he  unto  the  ^  eat  of  Judgment  go  • 
 The  young  men  faw  hirn,  and  themfelves  ^\i  hid?. 
 The  aged  rife  ;  the  Princes  tongues  that  flow 
 In  Eloquence,  their  talking  lay  afide. 
 
 ^peaks  he  ?  all  Mouths  arc  ihut,  all  Ears  arc  optn  widc# 
 
 30  1  do  not  reade,  l\\n grave  I-uAg  Samncl 
 I>id  ever  frora  this  heav'nly  Grace  decline, ' 
 For  all  the  time  he  judged  Ifrael : 
 But  fure  his  *  Tnttr  did  fo  much  incline  *  Ell 
 
 To  gentlencfs,  he  fwerved  from  her  Lin«. 
 O  Davtd  I  where  was  then  thy  Gravity, 
 When  thou  didft  make  Vriah  drunk  with  Wine^^ 
 That  fo  he  might  go  with  thy  Lemman  ly,] 
 
 To  covfr  thy  bafc  Sin  of  foul  Adultery  f 
 
 3 1  That  innocent  pure  golden  Gravity^ 
 Wiih  which  thou  in  a  Linncn  EfUd  dight, 
 Laydfl  by  thy  fov'reign  kiagly  Majefty,  j^j 
 
 To  dance  before  the  Lprd  with  all  thy  might :  ; 
 
 O  thus  to  be  uncovered  in  the  light 
 Of  maids^and  fcrvants,  well  becomes  a  King,«J  '-i^ 
 
 Though  profane  wicked  MkhQls  us  dcfpight. 
 Yet  when  to  God  we  our  Devotions  bring, 
 
 To  be  moil  vile  and  meek  is  no  diflionouring. 
 
 X>d  3  Should 
 
Kt4  Of  Gravity. 
 
 3  2  Should  I  now  pafs  by  Judges,  Prophets,  Kings, 
 And  from  th'  Apoftles  times  this  Virtu  trace,     ' 
 To  (hew  how  filly  fifher-men  did  things 
 l^OYc  grave  and  venerable  in  their  place, 
 
 T/ an  all  the  Prelates  that  have  higf^eft  grace 
 My  feJi  and  Reader  I  too  much  fbou  Id  fpend 
 ^'tt's  labour  in  our  hearts  her  to  embrace, 
 For  that  Indeed  is  AfeditacUns  end, 
 
 In  vain  he  feef  the  right,  that  doth  the  wrong  way  wend. 
 
 33  By  two  or  thr--  examples,  llecomrr,end 
 Tiiis  Grdce,  «$  flie  did  with  the  Heathe*  won  : 
 C/ito,  one  frrm  the  Senate  did  fufpend, 
 Bccau':  It  kift  his  wife  before  his  Son  : 
 
 A  Pc^r  craving  ofajudg  alone, 
 To  do  him  favour  againd  Law,  replide, 
 A$  7*f  f,  is  not  good,  whofe  Vcrfes  run 
 Not  by  the  rules  oi  Art :  fo  Ittdg  h  wide. 
 That  lays,  ioxfear  or  favour^  Laws  and  right  afide. 
 
 34  A  Sparteine  lewd,  in  ferious  confultacion. 
 Giving  his  good  advice,  was  followed 
 Of  all  the  Senate  in  their  Convocacion  ; 
 And  the  Decree  in  his  name  entered  : 
 
 A£ravfo\d  man  them  better  counfelled, 
 T  hat  they  their  honour  would  not  fo  defame. 
 To  have  Decrees  in  fuch  names  regiftred : 
 The  Sentence  might  continue  iHli  the  fame. 
 Changed  onely  f<om  a  /eVed^unto  z grave  mans  name. 
 
 35  Alas  I  how  many  be  that  do  profefs 
 Themfelves  great  friends  to  gracious  Gravitj 
 And  do  in  outward  (liews  exprefs  no  lefs  ? 
 But  they  at  home  are  full  of  Luxnrj^ 
 
 Bafe  Wantonnefs,  and  all  Jmmodefly  s 
 Efpccially  obfcene  in  filthy  Lufl : 
 Thus  Ciifid  bindes  loves  awfull  Majelly  ; 
 VtfiHs  have  her  peticions  granted  mull. 
 When  Inms  and  Minervtks  thrown  arc  in  the  i\x^] 
 
 Ah!. 
 
CfCcnft/tHcy  '41 5 
 
 3<5  Ah  !  I  could  widi,  but  never  hope  to  fee 
 The  golden  Age,  when  ev'ry  one  was  plain. 
 And  hearts  and  faces  did  in  one  agree ; 
 Diffcmbling  was  not  known  all  Saturns  raign. 
 The  Matrons  mo  deft  Vh^ins  fought  to  gain 
 By  ^^t^rns grave,  in  Virtu  to  begin 
 Thtivyuth,  the  ancifnt  up  in  labour  train. 
 To  moderate  their  Luft,  and  keep  from  fin  : 
 
 That  as  they  feem'd  without,  fo  they  might  be  within. 
 
 37  Three  things  the  PerfiAns  did  teach  their  youth, 
 To  ride  a  Horfe,  the  Bow  aright  to  draw. 
 The  iaft  thing  was,  in  aIUo^^HI  the-Truth  ; 
 This  made  them  of  ill  doing  ftand  in  aw. 
 
 They  being  bound  to  Truth,  as  to  a  Law,    - 
 This  Iaft,  tru  inwardGravUie  would  frame, 
 Conlidering  God  fecret  fins  will  draw 
 To  light  on  Earth,  to  our  difgrace  and  blame. 
 
 Or  elfe  hereafter  to  our  greater  pain  and  Ihamc. 
 
 58  But  I  confefs,  \Ve  are  fo  far  from  fear 
 
 Of  wanton  loofnefs  in  our  privacy, 
 
 That  openly  we  without  blufhing  bear 
 
 The  eni^gns  of  our  Impudicity. 
 
 So  far  fi c m  antique^r^; ler  Afjdeftj\  ^        ■  '-v 
 
 IngeflHresygoingSj  lookj,  vails,  and  attire  : 
 
 ^  hey  now  are  baits  of  Lult  and  Luxury, 
 
 And  fuel  to  increafe  our  fhamclefs  fire. 
 Which  (hould  be  hmited  in  Wedlocks  chaft  defire, 
 3P  And  not  (hews  onely,  but  our  fweeteft  fongs. 
 
 Are  now  the  Baits  of  Luft  and  Wantonnefs ; 
 
 In  Ribaldry  we  exercifc  our  toungs, 
 
 With  unchaft  talcs  we  entertain  our  guefs ; 
 Without  thcfc  now  no  mirth  or  chearfii ineffe, 
 
 Alas  1  poor  Gravity  is  quite  undone. 
 
 Her  honours  blended  with  Lacivioufnefs ; 
 ^    The  Signs  will  tell  you,  where ^ooii(  Ale  doth  woii. 
 lis  fikhynefs  to  fpeak,  what's  fiithy  to  be  done. 
 
^  i6  Of  Gravity, 
 
 ^c  Divincii  Spirits  !  Aifftfes  Darlings  dear  I 
 That  in  lubiimcft  Numbers  take  delighr, 
 Oh  1  let  your  FountAins^r^^in  as  pure  and  clear. 
 As  runs  the  Helicon  whereof  you  write  : 
 
 Dim  nor  your  pure,  fublime,  mofl  glorious  light, 
 ''vVitk  luflfull  thought  or  wanton  cogitacion. 
 But  fpend  the  honour  of  your  Furies  might. 
 In  holy,  fweet,  tranfcendent  Contemplacion, 
 
 And  as  your  matter's  grave,  fo  be  your  converlacion. 
 
 41  You  by  the  LMufes  arc  inaugruate 
 
 ^(f«/or/ of  Manners,  inward  Sandity, 
 
 As  of  the  outward  is  the  Magiftrate ; 
 
 On  both  be  patterns  of  tru  Gravity  ! 
 Andyou  fhalibothihinelikea  Tfeitj 
 
 Amongftthc  mortals  Vfhkh  arc  here  below  : 
 
 Your  priva  t  honour,  publick  majefty. 
 
 By  gravity  more  glorious  fball  fhow. 
 As  favour  outward  truly  doth  from  inward  flow. 
 
 ^»  wires,  Matrms^  TViddo'^cs^  Virgins  fayr  hzgrAVf^ 
 Oame  Ckafitty  defend  your  Bodies  may 
 OFrom  br;lefs  Luff  ••  This  Fertu  w  ill  you  five 
 1  rom  lunfuli;7,vojfrr  without  faying  nay  ; 
 
 The  boldefl  dares  not  Gr.tvitj  affay  ; 
 5he  better  than  a  thouland  Afgo's  eys. 
 All  iuflfull  /ockj  ^nd glances  keeps  away. 
 And  filencfrh  wchsimmg  Afercuries  : 
 That  Macron's  truly  chafi,  whom  no  man  ever  crycs, 
 
 43  Gcidofall6'ri«rr,lhumbly  beg  this  G'r4rr 
 Of  inward,  and  of  outward  Crxt/iVj 
 Grave  in  my  Afufes, grave  in  publick  place. 
 Crave  with  my  freinds, grave  in  my  Family y 
 
 Crave  \r\tyidverfity,ProJperiry, 
 Jn  all  religious  ^X^/^r^e-/ truly  ^r^x'r  : 
 Be  I  in  Bondage,  or  at  Liherty^ 
 1p.  hr^lth,  or  ftckneCs,  Gravity  I  crave,  . 
 
 -V  ; '':  from  rnin:^  Pns^  this  Grace  my  Sojilftal  fave."' 
 
 V  "'     ■  And 
 
OfGrAvitj.  417 
 
 44  And  though  to fing of  grAvitjlctxk^ 
 Yet  never  will  I  ccafe  her  Contcm^Ucion. 
 As  yoar»,  fo  muft  my  Grsvitj  incrcafc. 
 The  AHth$r  of  all  heav'nly  Cogitacion, 
 
 Mc  teach  her  pradice  in  roy  Conycrfacion, 
 This  Book  began  with  feAce,  I  now  will  end 
 With  GrAvity  both  Botk  and  Mcditacion : 
 God  grant  it  RcAders  hearts  may  all  anend. 
 
 At  it  hath  done  the  AuthpYs,  when  the  fame  he  pen'd. 
 
 T$tkfAfitk$r» 
 
 I  Read  thy  firms,  and  I  them  admire ; 
 The  more  I  reade,  the  more  I  do  dclire : 
 They  breath  fuch  holy  Pajfiens  in  the  minde ; 
 Wfco  rc^dcs  them  moft,  himfclf  (hall  better  finde. 
 
 M 
 
 £• 
 
Five  Divine  and  Moral  Meditations: 
 
 OF 
 
 t^Prugalitiy  ^ 
 a.  Providencs^ 
 
 Me  D  IT  AT  I  O  N  .  L 
 
 OfFrHgalitj  or  Thrift.  '■ '-      \ 
 
 MY  Muft  now  fares  like  fomc  pkin  country-Miyd^ 
 Walking  in  fayrcfl  garden  for  delight. 
 With  all  variety  and  choyce  arrayd. 
 Of  herbs  and  flowers  to  plcafe  the  Scent  andSight ; 
 
 Who  with  the  choy feft  flowers  doth  firfl  bcdighe 
 White  filken  pillows  of  her  bofom  fayr ;  . 
 
 But  after  their  rich  colours  h§r  invite. 
 With  them  to  deck  her  head  and  golden  hair 
 That  as  fhc  them  adorns,  fo  they  may  all  bcgay  hcr« 
 2  For  when  Brides  garden  firft  I  entered 
 Of  Graces^  for  delightful  mediucion 
 I  onely  forac  choice  FUwers  gathered, 
 Por  holj  Life^  and  heav'nly  CotttemflacUn  • 
 
 But  paflingforth  with  choyce  of  Delcftacion,' 
 ^uch  fwect  and  rich  variety  1  ftnde, 
 Fit  to  adorn  my  life  and  ctnverfacion^ 
 Out  of  thofc  pleafantknots  I  cannot  winde,       fminde^ 
 Which  with  new  choyce  of  flowers  and  herbs  delight  my 
 
 El  t 
 
OfThrift.  41^ 
 
 3  But  amoftgft  all  the  fragrant  herbs  and  flowers. 
 That  in  the  Gracfs  garden  do  abound, 
 I  fiiide  none  of  morefov'reign  grace  and  powers, 
 L  Than  this  of  Thrifts  which  next  I  do  propound  : 
 r      An  heri^  indeed  that's  hardly  to  be  found, 
 Becaufc  fhe  moft  what  in  a  corner  grows. 
 And  matteth  low  upon  the  fatteft  ground. 
 And  many  her  miftake  for  likely  (hows. 
 But  fcarce  one  of  an  hundred  that  her  truly  knows, 
 
 ^  Oh  heav'niy  Mufc  !  that  taught  the  fiephtrdsfyaiff, 
 (j4s  he  his  flocks  rvas  following  great  mthj«ng. 
 To  feed  them  on  fayr  lor  dans  flowry  plain) 
 
 ^  Divinefl  skill  in  Tmes  and  heav'niy  S9ng  ; 
 
 '       With  fome  fuch  holy  J'/^ry  touch  my  tong^ 
 Whilft  I  now  o£ Frugality  do  fing ;   -jd  r*]  i 
 Who,  though  (he  little  doth  to  me  belong. 
 Yet  if  thou  help  to  touch  my  harfher  firing, 
 
 f  may  teach  fome  her  pradife,  whilfl  her  praife  I  ring, 
 
 5^  She  is  that  T/V/'/*,  or  that  golden  J/<?^», 
 'Tmxt  Avarice  uniProdigalitj, 
 The  conflrant  J/(?^rr^c/c>«  between 
 Bafe  Nig^^rdiKs^  and  waAing  Luxury,  - 
 
 We  Temp* ranee,  Abftinence,  and  Modejlj, 
 With  Continence^  in  this  word  THRIFT  contain ; 
 And  yet  exclude  not  Lihirality, 
 
 Who  doth  to  name  of''  frugal  man  attain,    *  hjnffrng^ 
 neofthehigheft  Titles  du  to  man  doth  gain. 
 
 '  And  fuch  indeed  have  onely  right  fruici^n 
 Of  all  (\xch  fruits^  as  God  to  man  doth  fend ; 
 Who  prudently  here  weighing  their  condicion, 
 Preferve  thtSukfiance,  and  the  fruits  do  fpend : 
 
 Who  flocks  and  cattle  diligently  tend, 
 Grafs,  Vines,  and  Corn  that  in  the  fields  do  grow,' 
 To  them  their  lam^s  for  clothing,  VVooll  will  lend  ; 
 rrom6^d^r/  and  7G>f  great  {lore  of  miikfhali  fiow, 
 
 "©  feed  their  hoi|fhold,  and  larg  gifts  abroad  bcHow. 
 
420  OfThrift^ 
 
 7  There  is  zThrlft  in  Snhfidnce,  and  in  Grace  • 
 One  PemferMliy  the  other  ^iritHaU  : 
 
 They  that  the  one,  without  the  other,  trace. 
 Do  neither  of  them  findc  pcrpetuall : 
 God  is  of  both  the  Caufc  eflfeduall ; 
 jiftlU  water,  PmmI miy  plant  and  fow, 
 £fft  Cjsd  it  is'tlfAt  Tcvorketh  dll  in  aU  : 
 As  all  ^iritHAll  Thrift  from  him  doth  flow. 
 So  by  his  blclling  ail  infuhfiance  thrive  and  grow. 
 
 8  This  did  the  *  Chnrlby  good  experience  prove,    *La£^4 
 So  long  as  he  good  lacoi^  could  retain ; 
 Hcfaw  great  blcflings  come  from  heav*n  above. 
 And  therefore  fought  him  ay  to  entertain  : 
 
 Whilfl  lofeph  with  t\i' Egjpcian  doth  remain, 
 AH  profpers  in  his  houfe,  and  in  his  field. 
 And  in  the  prifon  he  doth  favour  gain, 
 Becaufe  all  well  fucceeds  that  he  doth  wicM : 
 By  heav-ns  fweet  influence  the  Earth  her  fruits  doth  yceidj 
 
 9  Thrift  eldeft  daughter  i$  oiTemperAnce, 
 By  Frftdcmce  nurfed  in  her  tender  years. 
 But  when  to  riper  years  (he  doth  advance, 
 A  StAndArdnndzt  Fortitude  (he  bears  ; 
 
 Shee,  graced  by  ibefe  three  moft  noble  Feeres, 
 By  their  advice  dircds  her  actions  right. 
 By  Temftr/incc  fhc  feeds,  and  cloathing  wears ; 
 3y  Prudence  (lore  provides  with  wife  forefight ; 
 By  Fortitude  gainfl:  Fortune*  blafts  (he  fiends  uprighCo 
 
 10  She  moderateth  alldchghtsand  pleafure. 
 Not  that  (he  us  forbids  all  fports  or  play, 
 Eat  mtkcs  us  recreate  our  felves  with  meafure, 
 That  frofm  our  felves  they  take  us  not  away  ; 
 
 As  he  that  moderates,  upon  the  way  : 
 His  fiercer  Steed  is  ftid  to  ufe  him  right ; 
 Not  he  that  lets  him  run  about  and  flray  , 
 So  onely  he  doth  pleafures  ufe  aright. 
 That  ferves  not  them,  but  mtkci  them  fcrve  to  his  deligbtj 
 
r|  VoT(\^cnototit\yisrM0der^ioH 
 Jn  meats,  arfd  what  to  clothing  doch  peruifl. 
 But  (he  eke  moderates  our  recrcacion. 
 Left  fort  we  do  lofc  a  greater  gain  j 
 
 She  doth  too  much  ot  any  thing  refrain. 
 And  cuts  off  all  luxurious  vain  expencc. 
 If  thou  to  thrift  and  riches  wouldft  attain 
 Here,  feck  not  to  increafc  and  raife  thy  rents, 
 
 3ut  moderate  Dcfire,  and  vain  Concupifcence, 
 
 [  2  I  ever  from  Frngalitie  exclude 
 
 All  fordid  bafcncfs,  want  of  aliment : 
 
 She  out  of  plenty  alvvaies  doth  fccludr 
 
 Some  few  things  neceffary  for  Contene : 
 For  to  be  frngall  and  magnificent, 
 
 May  both  well  in  a  prudent  man  combine, 
 
 Elfc  Thrift  no  daughter  is  oiTempermtnt, 
 
 I  oneJy  thofc  for  frugall  men  define, 
 A'ho  ufe  their  ftore,  but  fuffer  it  not  to  decline^ 
 
 13  I  oft  do  finde  in  fome  a  fimulacion. 
 
 Or  oftentacion  oiFrngality ; 
 
 When  great  men  follow  thriftie  imitacion 
 
 Of  thofe,  which  are  of  meaner  qualitie ; 
 And  this  may  be  too  much  Rufticitit^ 
 
 Be  it  in  Diet,  Vejfels,  Ornament ; 
 
 Bcfl:  rule  for  Thrift  in  all,  is  Medeftj : 
 
 For  where  it  meets  with  one  that's  provident, 
 ice's  temp'rate,  modefl,frugall  and  magnificent. 
 
 4  But  the  moil  dear  and  faithfull  friend  to  Thrifty 
 
 Is  carefull  HHshandrj,  and  Providertfe  : 
 
 This  is  the  thriving  Vertne^  which  is  grift 
 
 On  ftock  of  Labour^  Care,  and  Diligence.  VH 
 
 I     This  brings  in  fcuell  to  Magnificence, 
 
 And  like  good  hufwifc fetcheth  food  from  far,         _S3 
 
 The  thriftie  handmaid  of  Beneficence, 
 
 In  Summer  for  the  Winter  taketh  ctre ; 
 IndjCrc  (he  builds.  Materials  doth  abroad  prepare 
 ■  Fy 
 
421  Of  Thrift. 
 
 J  5  Fy  on  the  lazic  Gr/ijhopfer,  that  fings 
 
 All  Summer,  and  in  Winter  fterves  for  cold, 
 
 Ur.likc  the  frugal  Pifmirc^  which  ilill  brings 
 
 Sn  new  provifion,  ere  (he  fpend  her  old  : 
 Like  many  youthful!  Gallants,  who  their  Gold^- 
 
 In  Summerof  their  youth  do  fport  away  ; 
 
 But  when  their  Coyn  is  fpent,  and  Land  ^  fold. 
 
 Too  late,  finde  Ryot  caufe  of  their  decay  : 
 But  prudent  Thrift  forefees  and  (huns  fuch  evil  day- 
 
 1 6  ^-^  mi\  La^^thcfnad^ind  frodigAl 
 Are  tnterdid-cd  the  Adminiftracion 
 Of  their  own  Goods ;  and  have  Curatsrs  all, 
 To  manage  their  Eftate  in  frugal  falhion : 
 
 And  fo  long  mufl  they  both  abide  CurMien ; 
 The  furicjis  till  he  gets  his  wits  again. 
 The  Prodigd^  till  he  to  emendacion 
 Doth  of  his  Manners  and  his  Thnft  attain  : 
 
 •Tis  good  for  Commoi-yealth,  none  fpend  his  ftatc  in  vain. 
 
 J7  One,  Thrift  unto  the  Temples  doth  compare 
 Amongft  the  Heathen,  which,  muft  fure  Afjle^ 
 And  SAJi^uaries  for  all  Debtors  were : 
 Another  likes  a  r/7r//fj  f^^«,  ere- while, 
 
 To  ground  well  compaft,  and  wel  till'd  with  toyt : 
 For  as  fuch  lands  grow  foul  by  ilothfulnefs, 
 But  friiitfull,  where  the  Plough  doth  flir  the  foyt : 
 So  men  grow  grofs  and  foul  by  Idlemfs, 
 
 But  pure  and  healtbfull  by  laborious  Thriftinefs, 
 
 1 8  Heathen,  fuch  fruitful  frugal  men  compare 
 Unto  the  gods,  who  had  fo  little  need  : 
 Though  they  had  all,  that  they  it  all  could  fpare 
 To  mertals^  who  did  here  their  blefiings  need : 
 Far  otherwife  'tis  with  our  rich-mens  breed ; 
 They  nothing  fpare,  but  fpend  ev'  n  all  and  more. 
 Their  Fleih.  and  Lulls  luxurioufly  to  feed  : 
 Thus  they,  in  plenty  fwim.ming,  are  but  poor. 
 
 When  thgft  thai  have  but  little,  yet  have  greater  ftore.^ 
 
 This 
 
■OfTfmft.        y  423 
 
 ip  This  their  rich  mifery  doth  not  proceed 
 From  any  fault  that  is  in  outward/^rf. 
 But  from  Lufts  and  CupUitjes  which  breed 
 In  Stf/// and  ^(?^j,  as  I  fayd  before : 
 
 Like  fome  in  fits  of  Ames^  who  the  more 
 Cool  Beer  they  drink,  the  more  they  do  defirc, 
 Thtir  drinking  thirft  increafeth  :  He  therefore 
 Muft  purge  the  humours,  caufe  of  all  this  Fier, 
 
 Fife  drink  he  till  he  burft,  he  grows  within  the  dryer. 
 
 20  Me  thinks  I  rightly  may  this  Thrift  compare 
 Unto  the  fev'n  fat  Kine  on  Njlus  (hore, 
 Or  thofe  fev'n  goodly  Ears  of  Corrty  which  were 
 To  B^ypts  Monarch  figns  of  Thrift  and  (lore  : 
 
 The  hiafied  Sarsy  and  Bnllocks  lean  and  poor,  \ 
 
 I  Ifken  unto  Prodigalitj  : 
 Who  all  the  Fruits  devours  up,  and  more. 
 That  are  provided  by  Frngditj : 
 
 Thus  (he  with  her  own  bowels  feeds  her  Enemy. 
 
 -21  As  when  the  Ajer  fucks  immoderatly 
 
 Up  moiflure  from  the  ground,  the  Clouds  do  fall 
 From  thence  again  on  Earth  moil:  lavilhly : 
 Ev'n  fo,  when  Mifers  here  do  lick  up  all. 
 For  to  enrich  their  heirs  therewithal!. 
 Soon  as  the  long  expeded  day  doth  come 
 Of  their  moft  weleom,  tearlefg  Funeral, 
 Their  wealth  a!I  lavilhly  about  doth  run. 
 
 Till  their  rich  Cloud  be  fpent,  and  they  be  quite  undone. 
 
 22  It  is  mofl:  terrible,  prodigious, 
 .    To  fee  an  Earthquake,  with  dread  violence. 
 Swallow  a  Countrey ,  City,  Town,  or  Hoafe  | 
 Yet  Prodigals,  oft  by  profufe  expence. 
 
 Do  fwallow  Towers,  Houfes,  Farms,  and  Rents : 
 Then  they,  fayth  one,  them  vomit  up  again 
 Not  truly  iell  them;  for  they  have  long fince  J 
 
 Them  fpent  in  drinking,  lufts  and  pleafures  vain ; 
 They  oncly  now  arc  faint  tQ  fpu  thcra  out  for  paia. 
 
25  Many  good  Precept*  ftndcl  of  the  wife. 
 Us  to  inSrud  in  tru  FrHgAlitj-, 
 But  David  doth  the  oncly  way  tdvifc. 
 In  bis  moft  fwcct  divincft  Pfalmody  ; 
 
 Hi  fhAll  hAve  f  lent  J  and  pro  If  erity , 
 That  fears  the  Lerd,  and  fcatters  to  the  Foor, 
 Hts  Name  he  bleifedto  Pofleritj, 
 He  that  di^erfeth  Jhall  have  greater  fiore  : 
 For  goods  pifpofer  gives  him  all  his  wealth  therefore, 
 
 14  %^hel's  fixRfiugalmaff  I  of  do  reade, 
 
 Who  gave  the  hircii  fir  ft- lings  of  his  Flocks,    . 
 (Becaufc  there  was  no  poor  that  then  had  need) 
 To  him  that  gave  him  ail  his  flore  and  flocks. 
 This  gave  to  Ifaac  great  and  cafly  Shocks, 
 When  in  oiie  year  he  rcapt  an  hundred-fold  ; 
 lacol^,  who  went  out  with  a  f^afr,  now  ftocks 
 All  Shechems  Country  with  his  Herd  and  Fold  : 
 
 The  Land  of  r4;;^4wfcarcccanail  his  fubftance  hold. 
 
 ^5  The  Heathen  fay,  that  heav'nlj  Pr»vidence 
 ITo  mortals  here  for  Labors  BkffingsfUl  t 
 And  therefore  do  require  all  diligence 
 Of  all,  that  would  have  all  things  profper  wciL 
 
 Of  Ahflinence  and  Cefftinc/rse  feme  tell. 
 That  give  a  man  with  little,  much  (Content ; 
 Which  of  anothers  Inch  will  make  an  Ell, 
 By  whom  nought  lavifhly  on  Lufis  is  fpent, 
 
 But  onely  ncedfull  wants  of  Nature  to  content. 
 
 26  F^^W^w  thus  with  little,  doth  defpife  . 
 Great  Princes  Prcfents,  and  ihe  Gifts  of  Kings  : 
 His  Flocks  him  cloath,  his  Farms  with  food  fuffife. 
 Seranus  is  his  Plough  a-following. 
 
 When  as  the  Senate  comes ,  him  news  to  bring. 
 That  they  him  their  Dilator  hmA  ckdcd^ 
 Brave  Cnrinsy  who,  for  Empires  managing,    . 
 Was  after  of  all  C^nfuls  moft  relpedcd. 
 Dwelt  in  a  Country-Cottageall  aioncncglcdted. 
 
 27  More 
 
^:~^.       !v  Of/hnft,  ^fj 
 
 ij  More  royal's  furc  Content  in  Poverty, 
 In  little  homely  "Bowers,  which  can  d€:'kni 
 Us  from  Suns  heat,  and  Ayers  injury, 
 T ban  gliftring  Towers,  where  they  wafte  and  fpcnd 
 
 In  pomp,  and  luxury,  what  God  doth  lend  : 
 There,  coflly  Daintyes  oft  with  Poyfon  wound  : 
 Here,  without  coH:.  the  Earth  found  Gates  doth  fend  i 
 I    There,  golden  VefTels,  purple  Beds  are  found  : 
 Here,  all  the  flowry  banks  do  red  and  quiet  found* 
 
 28  When  Jlcxartder  in  a  little  Tun, 
 
 Saw  a  great  Tenant  with  content  of  mindcj 
 The  Cjftifk^,  Lo,  fayth  he,  that  heer  doth  wun 
 More  reJS,  than  I  in  ill  the  world  can  finde  : 
 
 I  covet  all,  he  nothing  lefs  doth  rainde. 
 They  furely  have  more  pleafurc,  arid  lefs  paiin. 
 Who  are  with  little  unto  Th-ft  inclinde, 
 p  Than  they  that  feek  a  world  of  wealth  to  gain, 
 That  they  may  more  indulge  to  cafe  and  pleaiure  yjJni 
 
 2p  One  prayfcth  htin^?r,2iS  beflfauce  to  meat^ 
 
 Becaufe  it  coft  him  lead ;  yet  favoured  befl, 
 
 And  always  With  delight  did  drink  and  eat^ 
 
 Becaufe  he  nere  did  without  hunger  feaf' , 
 Some  oncly  live  to  cat,  drink,  ^nd.  digefl. 
 
 But  we  ought  onely  eat  and  drmk  to  hve ; 
 
 To  live  to  feed,  is  to  be  like  a  Bcafl: : 
 ..  Who  Would  in  reafon  more,  than  fcnfc,  be  thrive^ 
 To  body  necdfull  things,  to  Soul  mufl  plent^ive. 
 
 50  Xautifft's  fayd  once  Socrates  to  blame,  m 
 For  that  he  often  made  an  invitacion      ^ 
 Of  grctteft  friends ;  yet's  fare  was  fliil  the  umt^ 
 Avoiding  always  coftly  preparation  : 
 SodM  hercplidc  thns  to  her  atjf  gacion  : 
 •    If,  at  they  feemj;.they  be  our  frictids  indeed^  , 
 
 I    they  will  refped  our  Thrift ;  but  if  for  faftiion  A 
 
 *  TiiCjr  make  a  (h^W:  Jet's  to  our  felves  take  heed,  % 
 
 Si  31  Tiicfc 
 
^i6  Of  Thrift: 
 
 3 1  Thcfc  Paterns  arc  of  tmgal  abftinence. 
 Which,  as  you  fee,  the  Heathen  ev*n  adore  ; 
 Now  fee  the  holy  Fathers  providence 
 To  raife  themfelves  to  plenty  being  poor  : 
 
 Noe,  Ahrahdmy  Besz,  and  a  thoufand  more, 
 Liwcupon  Tillage, Gradfig,  Husbandry y 
 And  tend  their  floc4cs.  Corn,  Cattle,  Grafs,  and  Ston : 
 Yea,  Kings  did  hereunto  themfelves  apply, 
 
 To  joyn  Aiagftificence  with  this  FrHgulity, 
 
 3  2  Ev'n  after  Sattl  anoy need  is  a  Kin^, 
 He  foiioweth  the  Cattle  from  rhe  field. 
 And  they  that  death  to  J/hhjheth  did  bring. 
 Came  to  buy  Corn  ;  it  feems  he  Tillage  held. 
 
 Neneere  did  fo  magnificently  weld 
 A  Scepter,  as  did  royal  SoUmQny 
 To  which  his  Thrift  fuch  wondrous  ftorc  did  yield  : 
 To  his  fhecp-fliearingfprucefl  Abfolon, 
 
 Invites  ev*n  princely  David,  and  his  eldeft  fon. 
 
 3  3   See  how  great  Princes,  and  the  fons  of  Kings 
 
 Are  not  alhamed  of  Trugdity  . 
 
 Priefls  HvM  indeed  of  Ty  thes  and  Offerings, 
 
 And  therefore  lookt  moll  to  Gods  husbandry  : 
 ^aul  hzd a  Trade,  although  a  Phahfic ; 
 
 And  thou^  he  to  th*  ApoflicOiip  attain^ 
 
 Yet  works  he  in  his  Trade  and Myftery, 
 
 His  living  with  his  labour  hecr  to  gain,  (maintain. 
 
 Nor  will  he  charge  the  Church,  though  bound,  him  to 
 
 34  Th' Apoftlcs.all  wcrePtfhcrracn,  and  gain'i 
 Their  living,  by  enduring  wet  and  cold  : 
 Diviaes  think,  lo/eph  bleffed  Igfus  train'd 
 In  his  own  Trade,  till  he  thrice  ten  years  told* 
 
 I  could  be  yet  three  times  as  manifold. 
 This  Virtu  with  Examples  to  commend. 
 Bet  1  had  rather  be  a  little  bold, 
 Aftd  you  perfwtdc  her  pradicc  to  intend ; 
 
 One's  for  her  prayfe,  but  tbu  is  connfel  for  «i  Friend* 
 
 35  O 
 
'55  Owhatahappinefsitistolivc, 
 
 And  do  much  geod^  without  offence^  to  tli  1 
 To  cat  fccure  thofe  caces  our  ground  dotji  give^ 
 To  ly  fo  low,  one  can  no  lower  fall, 
 
 Yet  have  ev'n  there  Content  imperial : 
 No  wickednefs  can  enter  fuch  a  CelJ, 
 Highcfl  delights,  that  can  a  Prince  befall, 
 This  private  Cottage  may  afford  as  well,         .•;.,:-:, 
 
 Where  CnY^  not  half  their  forrows  unto  thee  wiR  tell, 
 
 3^  T©  many,  Rlfi  from  mem  to  great  Eftate,  -  *  • 
 
 Is  not  an  enA,  but  ehmge  of  mifery  : 
 The  fault  is  in  the  minde,  (not  in  the  Fate.) 
 Which  \s  thc/ame  in  Wealth  and  poverty  : 
 Who  onely  minde  change  and  variety. 
 Live  ill,  bccaufe  they  ftili  begin  to  live ; 
 They  rightly  hcer  enjoy  profperity. 
 That  fo  much  pleafure  to  their  Bodyes  give, 
 
 As  they  not  for,  but  In  the  Body  fought  x,o  live. 
 
 3  7  Happy  is  he,  who  never  faw  that  one 
 
 With  whom  he  would  exchange  his  mean  efcite ; 
 
 Moft  miferable,  who  to  that  are  come. 
 
 They  things,  which  were  fupcrfluous  of  4ate, 
 Have  now  made  neeeffary  to  their  fla^e ; 
 
 Such  arc  cv'n  Haves,  not  mafters  of  theij:  pleafure ; 
 
 They  love  their  ills,  which  is  the  hardcft  fate. 
 
 Alas  I  there  is  ne  remedy  nor  meafure 
 Of  Vices,  when  as  men  efteem  them  a$  a  treafure. 
 3  8  No  good  befals  a  man  under  the  Sun, 
 
 The  which  his  minde  is  not  prepared  to  lofe  : 
 
 No  lofs  more  ea(ie  is  to  any  ©He, 
 
 Than  of  ihc  things  he  hath  no  need  to  ufe : 
 He's  never  poor,  who  N^inres  rnks  doth  chufc  i 
 
 Nor  rich,  that  livcth  by  (?p/«w»  ; 
 
 IiAtHYtsit^vi:t%\>tfLnU€ ;  kturtdiefs thok^ 
 ,   That  falfc0^i»i#«  depend  upon,  ^ 
 toithitigno Sniics  ^  HnhieriikcsmOmono 
 
 FeiT  i9  Sure 
 
4^8  Cff  Thrift. 
 
 ^9  Sure  he  is  beiT:,  to  whom  with  rpating  hand, 
 God  gives  fufficicnt,  let  him  wifh  no  more  i 
 In  need  of  things  fuferfluou.^  to  (land, 
 Is  miferable  Want,  in  great  eft  (lore. 
 
 Excefs  opprefTeth  many,  who  before 
 \Vith  little  could  have  liv'd  and  been  content : 
 Thefc  though  they  have  enough,  yet  ftill  be  poor, 
 Becaufc  they  firfl  beyond  their  compafs  went : 
 
 This  evil  prudent  Thrift  betimes  feek  to  prevent. 
 
 40  Who  is  not  made  in  Huslfandry  to  fweat. 
 May  fweat  in  Arts  or  Laws  political  ; 
 
 Tis  fit  all  earn  their  Bread,  before  they  eat. 
 Nothing  is  more  cxpenfive,  prodigal. 
 
 Than  t«  have  nothing  here  to  do  at  all : 
 Want  of  Implojmenty  Safe,  and  Jdlenefs, 
 Have  caused  more  noble  Houks  here  to  falf. 
 Than  Fdrtttnes  yiafls,  or  Envies  f^itiemefs 
 I  ec  him  not  live  to  fpcnd,  that  nothing  doth  profefs. 
 
 4 1  hen  let  him  never  live,  that  doth  profefs 
 Whats  worfe  than  nothing,  bafeft  Vfnry  : 
 Hcerin  is  certain  profit,  I  confefs. 
 
 But  always  with  anothers  mifery  : 
 
 Is  this  the  virtu  of  Frugality  ^ 
 By  others  loiTes  to  increafe  our  flore  ? 
 Then  fo  is  Rapiney  Theft,  and  Robbery, 
 Selling  tf  luftice,  which  oft  bring  in  more, 
 Than  all  the  frftgal  Trades  I  named  have  before* 
 
 4 :  Since  Nature  Vv'ith  fo  little  is  content. 
 
 Who  here  would  ufe  unlawfuil  Arts  for  gain  > 
 We  are  but  Stewards  here  of  what  is  fcnt, 
 if  we  our  Talents  ufe  aright  to  gain. 
 
 We  twice  as  many  fhall  of  God  obtain  > 
 VMt  if  to  hide  them  in  the  earth  we  chufc. 
 Or  fpend  them  on  o^r  Lufls  and  Fleafnres  vain  } 
 They  (hail  be  tane  from  us,  who  them  abufe, 
 «!  giveo  tQ  fuch  *s  ihiH  thj:m  to  Gods  glory  ufe  I 
 
 43  But 
 
Of  Thrift.  459 
 
 43  But  1  fo  worldly  Thnft  have  followeJ^^ 
 
 That  I  forgotten  have  to  thrive  in  Grace i' ' 
 
 And  as  it  in  the  world  is  pradifed. 
 
 Mud  put  her  off  unto  the  fccond  place : 
 For  I  fo  near  have  finifhcd  my  race, 
 
 1  muft  defer  this  to  another  time  : 
 
 God  grant  we  may  them  both  aright  imbrace. 
 
 Now  like  good  Husbands,  knock  we  off  betime. 
 And  be  at  work  to  morrow  in  the  mornings  prime. 
 
 M^i^u 
 
 Of  Gods  Providence* 
 
 BEhold  1  how  Birds  for  morrow  take  no  care ; 
 Secure,  God  will  du  food  for  them  prepare ; 
 Can  worihlefs  Birds  be  confident  of  meat  ? 
 And  is  a  Farthing-Sparrows  Faith  fo  great. 
 She  knows,  but  by  Gods  wil  I,  (he  cannot  fall  ? 
 And  (hall  Gods  Sons,  (^hrifis  images,  once  call 
 In  doubt  their  Makers  will,  to  do  them  good  > 
 No  fure :  who  lends  them  Life,  will  give  them  Food. 
 
 Ee  5 
 
 M  B- 
 
t450 
 
 !M  E  D  I  T  A  T  1  O  iN      I  L 
 
 Of  PrQztdenc€. 
 
 TV.tfrugAl  Hnsh.rJ,  which  I  erH:  defcrib'd. 
 So  foon  as  Titjftrmtb  b'S  gliftring  ]?cams, 
 Begilds  the  locks  of  fla^f*Iy  lines,  which  hide 
 Tfie  cops  of  Mountains  from  nis  hotter  gleams ; 
 
 WalKs  forth  amongft  his  c.irr/f .,  /^/^r  and  U4mf, 
 His  Lana  to  open  to  Suns  mellowing  heat. 
 And  feed  his  Herds  along  the  filver  flreams^ 
 To  drink  and  bathe,  when  they  their  fill  have  cat. 
 That  fat  they  him  may  feed,  that  now  proridci  them  meat* 
 
 2  Thus  earlj  rlfmg,  as  the  Proverb  fays, 
 
 Brings  Tlorift  in  body,  in  efiate,  and  mindt  \ 
 
 The  early  rifer  fpends  in  health  bis  days, 
 
 And  by  his  diligence  doth  plenty  findc; 
 And  in  the  morning  better  is  inclin'd 
 
 To  Prayer,  and  divinefi:  Mcditacion  : 
 
 Thus,  in  a  three-fold  Cord,  he  Thrift  doth  wyndc; 
 
 He  driveih  SUth  far  from  his  habitacion, 
 His  Sonixn.  Grace,  his  Body  thrives  by  recrCAcion. 
 
 ^   For  thefe  refpe(fts  the  Hnsbands  countrey  life 
 Tranf  ends  the  City-trades  mechanicaJ, 
 Or  fr.ows  at  Court,  where  reign  Ambicton  ftrife. 
 Or  Merchant  which  en  hazzard  ftand  or  fall  i 
 K»r  though  Thrift  in  efiate  thefe  oft  befall ; 
 And  Thrift  in  GrAce,  in  m'any  there  wc  finde, 
 Vet  fcarce  a  flrong  found  Body  'mongft  them  all. 
 They  want  {)ure  ayer  whereby  the  blottd*s  fcfin'd 
 
 And  whoifom  cxcrpfe  to  coimtrey  life  aifign'd. 
 
of  Providence*  ^ ^  j 
 
 4  Well  as  I  could,  I  rich  Frugalitj, 
 Did  late,  a^her  befeemed  well,  array  : 
 I  next  defcribe  four  of  her  company. 
 Which  always  with  this  thrifty  virtu  (lay>: 
 
 rrbt  fird  two  well  I  name  the  daughters  may 
 Of  Prfidence,  Providence,  and  Diiigence, 
 Next  two  themfelyes  from  Temperance  convay. 
 Thrifts  Sifters,  Ahftinence  and  Continence  : 
 Of  th^fe  four  I  would  fing,  and  firA  of  Providence. 
 
 5  O  !  thou  by  whofe  moft  powVfull  onely  Word, 
 aAll  was  of  nothing  made  and  finifhed, 
 
 And  of  this  All,  mad  ft  Man  the  little  Lord, 
 That  by  him  All  might  well  be  ordered  : 
 
 Who  hayrs'of  onrheadhafi  nnmhred, 
 Nor  letteil  the  Icaft  Sparrow  f/ill  to  ground. 
 But  as  before  thou  haft  determined. 
 Make  heavenly  Wifdom  in  mine  heart  abound. 
 That  I  may  "^ade,  Aoi  drown,  in  Providence  ^ro^our^d- 
 
 6  There  is  divine,  and  humane  Providence, 
 ^Divine  is  inliniLe,  unlimited, 
 Tranfcending  Reafon^  more  than  Eeafon,  Senfe, 
 And  may  to  glorious  Sun  be  likened  : 
 
 The  Stars  who  thence  their  lighi  have  borrowcJ, 
 Doth  hu'/nane  Providence  rckmhkngkt^ 
 Which  by  divine  rs  ay  enlightened. 
 And  though  like  Stars  it  oft  appeareth  bright. 
 Yet  when  the  heavenly,  ftiines:,  it  is  obfcured  quite. 
 
 7  Then-pardon, Reader, if  my  vT//^j'^/ey 
 Dazeled  with  glory  great,  and  fpicndor  bright 
 Of  Providence  divine,  heer  to  defcry 
 Unable  is  the  dark  obfcured  light 
 
 Oi  humane;  as  indeed  I  ought  by  right ; 
 When  I  come  to  her  Sifter  Diligence,  ^ 
 
 I  may  recover  well  again  my  fight. 
 My  Aiufe  now  rapt  with  heav'nlj  Provlderce 
 Cannot  defccnd  to  higheft  humane  excellence^ 
 
 Ee  4  .   r^. 
 
A  5  2  Cf  P  r»  V  tdence. 
 
 8  Bur  that  I  may  dcfcnbe  her  as  a  Grace y 
 And  link  her  in  the  zirtHes  golden  Chain, 
 I  her  c  h*  Almighty  es  Scepter  call  or  Mace, 
 Which  doth  z\i  Peace  and  Order  heer  maintain  ; 
 
 The  bounteous  hand,  which  all  things  doth  fuflain^ 
 Whofe  eys  for  nourifhment  up  to  her  look, 
 \Vho;/</V  rewards,  and  eke  the  "^ickid^s  Pain 
 Doth  regifl-er  for  ever  in  a  Book^: 
 Thus,  as  gods  Truth  and  Love,  (he  for  a  Grdce  is  took* 
 
 9  Thus  one  eternal  powcrfull  Providence 
 Heer  gi-\  ems  all  things  being  by  Creadon : 
 The  ntct(f.4  y  Agents y  wanting  lenfe, 
 Receive  .  .    r  mocion  by  her  ordinacion  ; 
 
 The  voly.ntAry  by  her  moderacion 
 Are  ay  difpos'd,  and  rul'd  by  their  own  "^lli, 
 Which  Vt-fV/  fhc  rfeth  as  a  A/ediacion  ; 
 No  man  againft  his  Vei/i  doth  good  or ;//, 
 Though  without  Grace  we  of  our  felveino/Wcan  ^ilL 
 
 JO  Sure  y^^w  in  pure  innocence  was  free 
 
 To  cat  the  Fruit  forbidden, or  abftain : 
 
 Eke  juftly  how  could  he  condemned  be, 
 
 Except  he  had  a  power  to  refrain  ? 
 But  fince  th^it guilt  original  did  liflin. 
 
 With  him,  all  Imps  which  from  that  ftock  proceed^ 
 
 We  fi-ill  retain /^rf  VpUI  none  dares  gainfaia, 
 
 But  It  IS  onely  unto  fx'iV  deed, 
 Grace  onely  by  New  Birth  a  v^vV/to  good  doth  breed. 
 
 1 T   fchoo's  may  difpute :  the  Truth  is  plainly  this ; 
 
 t^s  ^e  are  men,  We  power  haze  To  ^'ill, 
 
 «^.r  men  corrupt y  tt'f  always  Willamifs, 
 
 c/'  hc>'»  agiiiii,  togoi^d^e  haze  a  Vffill. 
 
 Thus  N'krurcftee  ^ill  gives,  ^i;»  bends  to  ill; 
 
 fjri^rf  unto  Good  :  But  now  1  feem  to  flray 
 
 1  re m  Prcviiicnce  divine ,  tO  mans  free  \V///, 
 
 But  th  s  as  needful!  ftiew  1  by  the  way, 
 ^Z*^^  Prcvidence  doth  to/Hntarj  A^entj  iWaV* 
 
 ''  -   '  I J   Her 
 
of  ^fVfdence.  ^U 
 
 la  Her  JVif^i^rAyet  more  plain  to  undcrftand, 
 
 Wc  muft  conceive  the  wrlds great  MitrischAlI^ 
 
 A$  he  malic  all  things  by.^his  mighty  hand^ 
 
 So  he  for  ever  them  difpofcth  all 
 JBy  Providence ;  not  ORc\ygenerM/i, 
 
 By  which  the  Spheres  in  their  due  mocionfride^ 
 
 And  Summer  and  the  winter  feafous  fall. 
 
 But  as  he  by  his  fpeciall  doth  guide 
 And  orders  every  thing,  that  doth  on  earth  betide. 
 
 I J  And  this  we  call  ^'fi/jf  iV^cf^nV, 
 
 Free  from  Co4Elim^  which  doth  all  diipofc 
 
 To  proper  ends,  yet  with  free  libertj 
 
 OffVtil^  the  things  we  doe  to  leave  or  choofe : 
 Thus  in  refped  of  God,  thn  futHre  knows 
 
 hifttfent^  ail  effcds  are  »ecejfarj^ 
 
 And  J  in  refpeA  o^fecondcanfes^  thofe 
 
 To  us  ctnttngent  arc  :  Laft  voluntary^ 
 As  they  refped  mans  will,  and  mocion  ArhltrArj. 
 
 1 4  God  wonders  fees  in  Mofes  we Cping  face. 
 When  Pharaoh's  Daughter  him  in  Ark  doth  finde,    . 
 As  (he  by  chance^  did  wa(h  her  in  that  piace^ 
 And's  mother  for  his  nurfc,  ^j  f/^4wrf  alTign'd ; 
 
 And  when  to  leave  the  Court  hee  was  inclined. 
 His  Brechrcns  cruell  bondages  to  fee. 
 He  went  forth  with  ^free  andvpilUng  mind ; 
 Lo  thus  in  this  example  all  the  three. 
 
 Divine  forefighty  maifs  ^i/I,  and  Chance  in  one  agreffo  \ 
 
 I J  And  therefore  when  of  Fortune  you  do  read. 
 With  reference  to  man  it  underfland. 
 Who  mofl  to  the  event  of  things  take  heed. 
 Not  to  the  Caufe^  Gods  moft  Almighty  hand  s 
 
 Elie  Chance  and  Provideme  can  never  fland  *, 
 
 Together  in  ih' Almighties  government ; 
 Who  being  CAfife  of  all  he  doth  «ommand. 
 Them  orders  all  unto  a  fure  event. 
 
 Though  far  above  mans  limited  intcndement. 
 
 ■    ■        ■'  •      •■ •  ■    '•  ^r 
 
431^'^  of  Fvvldenee. 
 
 3<3  Of  things  indeed  which  fccm  by  chan(;^obd^ 
 The  Ordtr^  CdHfe,  Necejfttj  and  End 
 Atc  hid,  in  GoA^cIofc  Counceki  and  Decrct: 
 We  onely  able  arc  to  apprehend 
 
 By  the  event,  how  God  doth  them  intend. 
 Thus  Clerk's  a  threeftid^^rkjn^  do  obferve. 
 Of  providence;  which  far  their  reach  tranfcend^ 
 Andyet  they  all  to  one  fame  etid 'io  fervc. 
 
 To  ihcw  Gods  glory  ^  and  his  creatures  to  prefervCo 
 
 J 7  Thus  means  andfecfnd  caufes  Hie  doth  ufe^         :  rJ. 
 Oft  works  rvithoutj  by  p»wer  immediate^  " 
 
 And  oft  1 0  work  againfi  means  fhc  doth  chufc : 
 Two  \%i\  men  ciW-NeceJfitj  or  Fafe^ 
 
 Became  the  C^fe  they  cannot  calculate  :  >    ^ 
 (  Ohricheii  Wiiedom,  Knowledge  without  bound 
 Of  the  ALmighty  i  without  time,  or  Date, 
 Thy  ludgemcr. ti  a<*  man  able  is  to  found. 
 
 Beyond  all  mens  conceit,  chy  counfels  are  profound,  ) 
 
 3  8  Like  this  is  that  Philofophers  aflign 
 To  Counfeil^  Nature,  Chance  and  Providence  ; 
 By  CoHnfell,  they  meant  Will  and  Reaftns  line  ; 
 By  NafHre,  force  of  beav'niy  influence ; 
 
 By  Ch^.nce^  when  they  below  beheld  events^  - 
 But  not  their  Canfe  :  LafV,  when  iome  (?r/irf  did  fall 
 Faft  N at uresy  Chance,  and  Connftls  evidence, 
 That  Sfeciall 'Trovidmce  di vine  they  call, 
 
 Mor  but  they  underflood  fhe  had  her  hand  in  alL 
 
 29  Sweet  fruit  ofTrtvidence  to  be  perfwaded^ 
 That  all  beJ€?/  is  ordered  by  Gods  hand. 
 Nothing  by  Chance :  Thus  when  we  are  invaded 
 By  Ftsj,  "Death,  Hell,  we  mofl  undantcd  ftand : 
 We,  C  od  trime  canfe  of  all  things  underftand, 
 KcipeL^^n^^  y^^  tnferiour  in  their  place. 
 Which  a: waves  wait  upon  the  firfl's  command. 
 And  all  arc  to  thtgUrj  tfhisgraee^ 
 
 W  ereby  God  his  elcd  doth  ay  in  love  ^mbracci' 
 
 rvl 
 
of  frovUenct,  434 
 
 I  Oh  what  incftimablc  quiccncfs  1 
 From  hence  arifcth  to  a  godly  minde. 
 Though  evils  without  nur?iber  him  opprcfs, 
 Which  like  ^o  many  Deaths  he  then  doth  finde. 
 Knowing  not  how  his  wretched  Iclfc  to  wiade^ 
 From  Cruelty,  which  him  fall  foUoweEh, 
 And  doth  fo  faft  with  cords  and  fcttew  binde. 
 That  ev*ry  minute  thrcaccncth  his  Death  ; 
 
 A.»d  fcarcely  fuffers  him  to  draw  his  languid  breath. 
 
 at  ^c.l\ith\%lA^l 9^ he Avnlj Providence 
 
 Shines  to  ht$  Soulc  ;  then  all  Anxiety, 
 
 Feare,  Care,  Diftruft,  are  banilbt  quite  from  thence. 
 
 And  he  relecv'd  in  all  extremity  : 
 Then  knows  he  that  one  gracious  Majefty, 
 
 Heer  by  his  power  fo  diredeth  all,  ^  -\^^  • 
 
 By  wifdom  rules,  and  by  his  Bonicy  '^'^ 
 
 Difpofeth  fo,  that  nothing  ever  (ball. 
 Jut  for  Gpds  glory  and  his  own  good  hifti  befall : 
 
 \  To  flefhes  obloquy,  fome  giving  way ^ 
 
 Confefs  the  fo^Af/?Po»?fr/ govern  ali,^."  — 
 
 But  that  with  mortals  beer  thcyufe  to  play,  -  -  *  '' 
 
 AiWczihaJz.z4rdto($2^Teitf7is-ifAilr 
 
 Some  ^11  would  have  by  Chance  and  f  t>rr«»^  fall ; 
 Some  otherj  grant  that  God  doth  ail  incline. 
 But  that  mans  wit,  and  will  muft  work  withal!, 
 Thefe  men  with  God  m  government ,  doc  joy n 
 ind  his  moft  confiant  fnrpfe  to  mans  t???// confine. 
 
 3  Some,  to  cxcufe  God,  grant  that  Power  divin 
 
 Permitteth  evill,  but  not  with  his  will, 
 
 And  fuffreth  Sataft  heer  to  blind  the  eyn 
 
 Of  Reprobatci ;  but  no  wayes  ill  doth  will. 
 But  fure  God  willingly  permitteth  ill. 
 
 Since  by  his  power  he  goodnefs  able  is. 
 
 To  draw  from  ill,  his  purpofc  to  fulfill ; 
 
 For  thus  did  Phdraoh  wilfully  amifs, 
 ^n  God  tutiics  afll  to's  glory,  and  his  chofcn$  hlifs^ 
 
j43i^  Of  friviJeTteel 
 
 23  As  Suns  pure  beaiucs  exhale  fr^m filthy  Ooft 
 FbhU  V4p9ftrs,  which  no  vfhit  the  Sun  defile, 
 SodothGods  Provide  not  oipil  difpofe. 
 Yet  of  no  (vill  he  partakes  the  while  2 
 
 And  as  not  in  Suns  bcamc$,  hut  in  the  foyl. 
 The  matter  of  the  vapour  doth  cpnfifl, 
 5o  in  mans  heart  is  bitterncft  and  Bile, 
 And  not  in  God,  who  evill  doth  rcfiH, 
 Or  turtles  fuch  evil!  into  Goodncfs,  ai  he  li&, 
 
 1^  Thus  Kings,  Priefts  Rulers^  Elders, all  combin'd 
 Againft  the  Lord^  and  his  anointed  Son : 
 Kn^i^iUtey  Herody  lews  and  Gentiles  joy nd. 
 To  doc  what  Go  d  decreed  to  be  done  .• 
 
 But  they  rpcant  wickedly  cv'n  every  one. 
 The  ptopic  a  vain  thing  imagined. 
 To  crucifie  the  Lord  of  Life  they  run. 
 But  God,  we  fee.  thereby  hathquickcned 
 
 The  mtmlurs  all^  whereof  he  i«  the  glorious  he4d, 
 
 a5  A5  when  we  fee  fair  PAo-^^x^ritf/e^^^wff/, 
 United  in  ^#»w»f^/4/}^cnflame. 
 We  ufe  not  to  accufc  Sunt grAcUus gleam f^ 
 For  fuch  offence,  but  hnming  gUfs  doc  blame. 
 
 Wherein,  without  the  Sunn's  nor  heat  nor  flamej 
 So  when  we  fee  the  wicked  man  abufc 
 The  faircft^t/rj  of  Nature  to  his  (hame  ; 
 The  Anthor  of  them  we  muft  not  tccufc, 
 
 B*^  TPtlfnU  mAn,  that  doth  them  he cr  unduly  ufe.. 
 
 26  Good,  Powcrfull,  Wife  Difpofer  of  all  things  I 
 So  n^ife  thou  all  Dilbrders  orderft  right. 
 So  goo  d  thy  Goodnefs goid  from  evill  brings, 
 So  pow*rfftll  al  I  fubfifl  upon  thy  might : 
 
 How  (houid  an  ignorant,  weak,  wicked  wighri* 
 Conceive  thy  rrlfdpm,  Pt^^r,  and  Providence ; 
 Xtuch  lefs  by  Simiie  it  more  inlighc. 
 It  far  furpaffeth  mine  intelligence ; 
 
 T:^;  z^s  kr.o^-n  I  doe  ainiir?,  rhr»  reft  J  f  evfrencer 
 
 ti\ 
 
VfFr^vidertce.  ^3j 
 
 7  'Bntlhy ^rsvtdiHce dhitfi tm  led 
 
 To  ftfs  the  bounds  offr^idl  mcditacion : 
 Vtrion^grtdt  CUrkf>  that  Ibavc  mcddcled 
 To  tiflc  a  ^jfi^^Jy  ^y  Co^Vcmpiacion, 
 
 Worthy  your  sr^Hment^  and  difput^cion : 
 I  was  dcfirou^  to  rcfolvc  my  minde 
 In  this^high  poynt  oxhsAv'nlj  msderackfty 
 Wherein  mod  wondrous  comfort  1  do  ^nde, 
 O  fee  how  things  on  run-th  arc  firi^  inheAv'n  defign*d, 
 
 8  Who  can  fuppofe  this  worldCo  perftd,  rare^ 
 
 Not  governed  by  one  f^^'rful  providence  f  ^ 
 
 Since  all  which  without  modtrators  are^ 
 Confiding  of  the  four  firft  Elements, 
 
 Cannot  continue ;  Honfes,  Tenements^ 
 Without  a  tenant^  ruin  and  decay : 
 linpruned  Vines  do  Ipfc  their  cxccflcnce. 
 Mans  B»dj  fayls,  when  Soul  doth  pals  away  ; 
 would  this  t/^^^Vrr/f ,  ihould  God  forbear  a  dayv 
 
 Af  members  of  a  man  artgbt  do  move 
 Firflby  his  underftanding  and  his.  will. 
 So  doth  this  Vmvtrfe  by  God  above. 
 And  all  concord  his  pleafure  to  fulfill : 
 
 Who  duly  wait  on  T'rfl'z/t^f^c^  he  wilf 
 Make  happy  here,  and  blcfled  evermore  - 
 Not  that  he  doth  the  cariefs  idle  fill 
 With  bleflings  temporal,  or  heav'nly  ibre, 
 ho  will  not  row  on  Sea,  (ball  ncter  come  a-(hore. 
 
 It  is  a  dangerous  and  impious  thing  : 
 
 Thus  to  difputc  with  Providence  divine, 
 ^inc  arm,  nor  good,  nor  bad,  to  pafs  can  bring  ^ 
 Ill's  done  by  the  Almighties  firm  dcfigne  ; 
 
 Thc>rriVrf«  W?ri<  muft  be  our  (quarc  and  line, 
 jodsfecretpttrpofe  tad  revealed  PVill 
 "onfottnd  n9t  by  a  vain  coiceit  of  fhiae ;  . 
 
 hus  Theevstnty^  blamelefs,  trn  mef^tah  and  kill, 
 
 i  fay ,  they  but  Go4s  fccrct  purpofcf  fulfyi, 
 
43»  OjJ^rMdmr? 
 
 3  i  For  Porovldenee  doth  not  us  mortals  tend. 
 As  Mtthers  infants  ncwly  brought  to  light. 
 Which  have  no  ftrcngth  themfclves  then  to  defend 
 'Gainfl  aycrs  injuries,  or  foryf  gin  might ; 
 x^Buc  a$  the  FJither  that  his  Son  hath  dight 
 With  flrength,  and  weapons 'gainfi:  his  enemies, 
 I^ire(ft£th  him  to  order  them  anght. 
 And  to  icf^nA  himfelf  from  injuries. 
 
 ^^^li^iots  never  negligent  and  idle  lyes. 
 
 3 3  They  that  arc  godly  and  religious, 
 '.Vith  Providence  fweet  Dili^iMce  do  joyn, 
 God  that  withoiit  our  felyes  hath  fafliion'd  us^ 
 Without  thy  felf  faves  neither  thee  nor  thine : 
 
 And  therefore  prudent  men  provide  in  time, 
 Againft  all  future  want  that  happen  may  j 
 VVhcn  therefore  we  for  morrow  do  defign 
 Things  neceffary  ;  none  can  juflly  fay. 
 Or  judg  us  too  much  careful!  for  the  following  day^ 
 
 34  The  Lord  of  all  did  needful  things  provide^ 
 Therefore  the  Bag  falfe  ludai  carried, 
 The  Loaves  and  Tilhcs  which  he  did  divide 
 Amongdfive  thoufand  which  him  followed^ 
 
 Th*  Apoftlcs  carri'd  for  their  daily  bread  : 
 Faul  temp'ral  Alms  provideth  for  his  Nacion^ 
 Where  he  tkcJprituAl  had  publifhed : 
 iofeph  from  Ni/e  corns  to  make  preparacion, 
 ^o  favc  alive  old  facoh  and  his  generacion. 
 
 ?5   Of  thefe  learn  to  provide  things  neceflary  : 
 Of  Beads  to  fhun  and  ^o  avoyd  all  iii. 
 Who  near  things  hurtfull  to  them  do  not  tarry; 
 Nor  nigh  unto  thofc  places  travel  will. 
 
 Where  they  iito  a  Ditch  have  lately  fill  i 
 The  Bird  cfwpt,  efchcwes  the  Fowlers  gin. 
 Nor  will  be  tempted  more  with  all  his  s^  ill : 
 ,    Thefiiht  hat  findes  the  hook  the  bait  wit  hill  • 
 Thence  to  provillc  againfl  fuch  danger  doth  begin 
 
 Thii 
 
36  Things  paft,forfu^re,  arc  found  documents^ 
 He  that  is  ^ife^  the  cvill  doth  forefcc. 
 
 And  hides  himfclf  from  many  nocumcnts. 
 Which  canpot  by  the  7\',^  avoided  be  : 
 Moft  admirable,  vcrtuous,wife  is  hc> 
 That  things  forefecing  vrifely  can  provide^ 
 Nothing  on  earth  without  a  caufe  we  fee. 
 Though  them  the  highefl  iTifdcm  ib  doth  hide 
 They  can  not  by  our  feebleRcafon  be  defcride 
 
 37  The  fVorld  may  be  compared  to  a  Stagf^ 
 VVc  mortdls  to  Spe^ators^  they  that  flay 
 Without  to  fee  her  dntiejue  e^uipa^e'; 
 Do  truly  as  they  ought  behold  the  pUy  .• 
 
 The  curious  that  about  the  StagfAo  i^ray. 
 And  prj  into  the fecret  tyrikg  ropf^^ 
 Are  by  ^tAgckseptrs  often  driVen  away  ; 
 All  muft  not  into  Natures  Secrets  come. 
 Although  (hemany  Afjfieries  rtrc^l  to  fomc. 
 
 3  8  How  dares  p  roud  man  inquire  fo  curioufty 
 Of  Gods  hid  ciunfeh  and  hisfecret  ^t/l  ? 
 The  Betkfhemites  iilto  the  Ark.^iA  pry. 
 And  God  with  fudden  vengeance  them  doth  kill. 
 
 Provide  thee  good  things,  and  avoyd  the  ill. 
 So  mayft  thou  many  live  and  happy  days, 
 Prefume  not  to  be  wife  above  thy  sktii 
 By  Gods  revealed  will  guide  all  thy  ways, 
 
 \^kftcret  C^nnffls  fearch  not,  but  admire  and  prife. 
 
 55?  And  yet  bccaufc  God  all  doth  here^ifpofc 
 Thou  like  a  feucelefs  Idol  muflnot  fland : 
 God  gave  thee  not  for  nought,  eares^eyes^  hAnhy  n)fi, 
 A  will  to  do,  a  wit  to  undcrfland : 
 
 Employ  thefc  always  by  his  yi^arnmand^ 
 The  whole  fuccefs  leave  to  his  Providence, 
 Acknowledg  all  good  bicflings  from  his  hand. 
 And  labour  with  all  care  and  di^l$£cnce^ 
 To  thrive  in  Goidfieft^  Grace, tni,  all  Intelligence.  „ 
 tin  ..  •  But 
 
44<5  Of^rn^^cience. 
 
 40  But  above  til  from  mmmitnng  refraar,'        ^ 
 
 Oti^t%ti\\^^\n%pIhtstiYmC}X might:  ^  ^  J'\ 
 
 So  Ax^  may  boaft,  that  it  along  hath  Iain 
 
 The  Cfidars  ;  and  the  ?la,nc  roaynlaim,  as  righr^ 
 T^at  bv  it's  work  thy  roofio  fayr  was  dight ; 
 
 S^  may  the  rod  of  M^'fes  brag  and  boafi: 
 
 It  ail  the  Wonders  did  in  Pharao^f  fight : 
 
 The^jff /  7^Ty-^o;;f  that  it  fleu  an  hoft : 
 Slit  moft  the  kofffe^  when  Samffon  pulled  down  the  poft. 
 
 4r  On  whom  we  ought  to  cafl  ev'n  all  our  care. 
 To  hiin  we  muft  afcribe  the  Praiie  of  all : 
 In  his  hand,both  our  Soules  and  Bodied  afisi, 
 By  Power  of  his  Breath  we  ftand  and  fall :  ^ 
 
 From  him  all  was,  is  now,  and  ever  fhall : 
 Of  all  the  things  done  underneath  the  Sun, 
 The  *  u^ifeman  fought  a  reafon  natural,        *  Eccl.%A% 
 Bur  was  as  blinde,  as  when  he  jfirft  begun. 
 
 Though  firfl  he  thought  he  could  difcover  any  one 
 
 42>Gods  counfels  fliail  fot  evermore  endure. 
 His  thoughts  ftand  firm  in  ev'ry  generacton  ; 
 Our  hearcs  he  falliions,  and  conceiveth  fure^ 
 Our  works  arid  fccreceft  imagination  : 
 
 Who  to  the  RHvns  gives  food  and  fuf^entacion  i 
 So  governs  all,  they  nothing  here  ihali  need. 
 That  wait  on  him  With  pacient  expedacion  .• 
 With  temporal  and  heav'niy  he  doth  feed 
 
 All  thofe,  that  crave  aright  of  him  fpiritual  feci. 
 
 ^1  Jn  number,  mcafure,  waight,  he  doth  difpofc 
 Of  all  things^  He  prefcrvcs;  both  man  and  bcaft  t 
 When  cfire  ^ndp^ins  may  favc  thee  from  thy  focs^ 
 life  diligence ;  to  God  commit  the  reft : 
 
 And  when  thou  arc  fo  mightily  dilbreft 
 Thon  canft  no  help  in  arm  offlcjb  behold. 
 Upon  his  Provide ftct  that  made  thee,  reft ;. 
 That  in  thy  mothers  tVoml?  thj  members  Pold^ 
 
 And  in  his  i^iV^hath  cv*ry  ohc  of  ihcm  inrold^'  ^      1 
 
 G6^i 
 
of  Providence  1  j^^- 
 
 43  Good  coirnfcl  gave  that  HeAthen,  HaviArCgrt 
 Vnt9  thy  [elf  \  moft  of  thjfelf  take  heed : 
 
 He  meant,  Lufls  and  Corruptions  which  are 
 
 Within  us ;  which  to  us  moft  danger  breed  ; 
 With  others  we  deal  warily  indeed, 
 
 Left  they  deceive  us  by  their  fubtiky. 
 
 But  our  own  vile  aflfedions  little  heed, 
 .  Although  we' have  no  greater  Enemy  ; 
 Irhus  we  cfcape  g^th's  fword,  and  on  our  own  do  dy; 
 
 44  The  lews  may  with  their  Orator  confpirc 
 <Pauls  ruine ;  nothing  fhall  to  him  befalJ^ 
 But  to  advance  his  Crown,  and  Gofpel  higher  ; 
 So  as  his  bonds  in  Cafars  Judgment-hall, 
 
 Are  maaifeft  and  famous  'mongft  them  all ; 
 To  the  Eled,  and  thofc  that  truly  love. 
 Nothing  but  for  the  beft  fhall  ever  fall : 
 This  by  Examples  thoufand  I  could  prove, 
 Happy  who  findes  it  written  in  his  heart  hyj$ve^ 
 
 45^  The  Lions  ^ant  and  hunger  may  endure ; 
 Wh§feeks  the  Lordy  '^ants  mthing  that  is  good. 
 The  Angel  of  the  Lord  him  keeps  fecurc. 
 From  his  ©wa  hfis,  Heils/j«rj,  wickeds  mcod. 
 
 This  of  the  weakcft  may  be  underftood. 
 If  ought  hcer  pafTcth  thine  intelligence. 
 Suck  thou  the  milk^,  and  leave  the  finnger  food. 
 Here  ends  my  fong  of  hcavnlj  Providencsy 
 
 Mext  follows  her  attendant  humane  Dilkence', 
 
 Ff  M 
 
 1' 
 
n440 
 
 Meditation    111. 
 
 of  Dilig^nre. 
 
 T  7T7Ho,wIth  a  prudent  heart ;  and  godly  mindc, 
 V     V  Will  take  a  vieu  bow  things  are  wrought  below. 
 In  all  effeds  Chgi\[g»od  and  evil  findc, 
 As  cMife  is  good  or  ///,  from  whence  they  flow ; 
 
 Thus  God  firfl:  Caufe  of  all  thy  anions  know, 
 As  they  hcgotd ;  thy  fclf  as  they  be  ill ; 
 Which  doth  Godspow'r  and^oc^»j/j-  greater  fhow, 
 In  ufing  here  mans  viU  corrupted  V^flit, 
 As  fecond  caufc  his  found,  good  purpofe  to  fulfilL 
 
 2  All  evil  then  comes  from  mans  vicious  ^tU, 
 Not  mov'd  thereto  by  meer  ntc'ejfitj,  * 
 As  fenflefs  Agents  are  to  good  or  ill, 
 But  gives  confent  thereto  moft  willingly  : 
 
 By  Natnres  Light  we  ^Wfrom  ;//  deicry. 
 But  this  us  oncly  leaves  without  excufe. 
 When  feeing  better  we  the  worf!-  do  try. 
 And  thus  gcdfoic  mans ?»4/;Vf  makes  good  ule. 
 And  he  is  juflly  punifhed  for  his  abufe. 
 
 3  O  mans  per verfnefs  !  grant  him  Icaft/ff\^/74  iL 
 And  hebecoms  vain, proud,  and  infolent : 
 Deny  him  any  power  tQ  dt  or  w^//. 
 And  he  grows  lazj^flothfull,  negligent : 
 
 Firfi  kinde  are  meritorious,  impudtnt. 
 And  merit  for  themfelves  and  others  willj 
 The  other  SpicureAikc^  take  content 
 In  ph^fure,  €Atlng,  drinking  of  their  fill^ 
 Or  in  a  n  idk,  m<  Uncho lUck.fmingftilh 
 
of  Billgence.  443 
 
 4  But  Diligence y  the  Grace  I  ntxt  propound. 
 For  this  laft  evil  is  befl  remedy. 
 
 This  Viper  which  moft  dang'roufly  doth  wound 
 Our  fouls  with  fenflefs  fpiruual  Lethargy^ 
 
 And  brings  too  asfifh-hzy  Accidy : 
 Mojfl  perilous,  bccaufe  we  feel  leaft  harm. 
 O,  this  is  Satans  fubtillefb  LnlUhj, 
 Our  fonis  mtbfiupid  lazyncfs  to  charm. 
 And  then  oi ^iritualarr/n  and  Vsfeapotts  to  difarm  J 
 
 5  Th«u  that  haft  promised  cndicfs  happinefj. 
 To  all  which  at  thy  coming  thou  dofl  findc 
 Intent  unto  their  Maflers  bufineis. 
 
 And  diligent  in  body  and  in  miade, 
 
 Make  all  my  Souls  and  Bodycs  powr's  inclinde 
 To  Diligence,  whilfl  I  her  prayfes  write, 
 K-Unlofc  the  chains,  the  fetters  ftrong  unbinde 
 .    Of  i'/of^  and  Z>«/«f/f,  which,  to  blackeftnighr 
 ,  Leade  blindfold,  dntifiefeHls  that  take  therein  delight. 
 
 Vigilance,  Indnfirjy  and  Diligence, 
 So  like  indeed  one  to  another  are, 
 My  plainer  Mufe  fcarce  fees  a  difference. 
 And  therefore  all  w  ill  but  as  one  declare ; 
 
 Our  fouls  and  bodyes  powers  they  prepare. 
 In  ev'ry  noble  Virtu  to  tranfcend. 
 Nothing  on  earth  that's  admirable  rare. 
 Without  thefc  can  be  brought  to  perfed  end. 
 On  thcfe  do  honeft  care  and  labor  ay  attend. 
 
 For  godly,  )uft  arid  neccfTary  cAres 
 Are  parts  fubflantialof  Diligence, 
 And  as  fhe  for  the  future  thus  prepares. 
 Having  to  Trntth  and  lufiice  reference^ 
 
 She  is  a  Grace  of  Wondrons  excellence : 
 But  if  fhe  fpring  from  Envj,  Emulachn, 
 ^mhicion.  Tear,  or  other  bafe  pretence. 
 She  is  a  curious  bafeabominacion, 
 he  by  fie  yi€c  thac  Autkor  is^of  defolaciono  ,    > 
 
^Ai  Of  BUtgence^. 
 
 8  InJf^firj  bed  agrcctli  to  the  minde. 
 
 In  which  (lie  frames  a  quick  Dexterity, 
 In  yfrts  and  Sciences  the  right  to  finde. 
 And  rhcy  that  know  her  wondrous  Energy, 
 
 In  Phjfick^,  Lawy  and  in  Divimtj, 
 Know,  that  (Ik  tends  the  nearefl:  to  perfedion, 
 And  is  to  humane  imbecihty  • 
 
 Mcfi: found  defence,  fecure, and  fafe  prote^ion, 
 'Gainil  Satans^MaIice,their  own  Lufts,&:  worlds  infeftion'. 
 
 9  We  well  Dame  Nature  may  the  Mother  name 
 Of  noble  Indpfflrj  and  Diligence y 
 
 Yet  oft  wc  fee  their  wondrous  force  doth  tame. 
 Things  againft  Nature-,  without  violence  • 
 
 All  other  Virtues  glorious  excellence, 
 V\  hich  we  in  Heroes  juflly  do  admire, 
 Have  their  Beginning  and  Perfedion  thence  : 
 Where  Indfiflry  and  Diligence  confpire. 
 Wants  nothing  that  we  can  in  mortal  man  defirc. 
 
 I  o  For  as  fhc  many  evil  things  amends,  • 
 
 So  is  flic  of  all^^WthcconfummatioH, 
 Mofl:  diffoiutebafe  manners  (lie  commends 
 Soon,  unto  honeft  thrifty  reformation. 
 
 An  infirm  Body  by  exercitation, 
 And  Diligence,  becometh  flrong  and  found  : 
 She  frees  old  Age  from  grievous  moleftation 
 Of  painfull  Hiarp  Difeafes  that  abound, 
 
 Fields  of  the  dUiq-ent  are  frui  tfuU  ever  found. 
 
 I J    For  by  this  Diligence  all  well  fuccecd, 
 
 No  !<^k  hoiir  on  her  head  doth  fliine 
 
 She  her  beft  hours  fpends  with  prudent  heed, 
 
 y\  nd  all  her  bulincfs  aright  doth  line. 
 
 She  findes  to  all  things  an  appointed  time. 
 Except  it  be  for  Sloth  and  Idlenefs. 
 If  idle  words  be  judged  fuch  a  crime. 
 Much  more  the  lofs  of  times  high  prccioufncfs, 
 Which  cannot  bi  re?^ain  d  with  coft  «n4  carcfulncfs,  . 
 
 12  WhcM 
 
^  uf  utitgence,  ^/j 
 
 li  Wherefore  goodfachers  of  fiFamil)/, 
 
 Firft  rife,  and  la  tell  go  t#  bed  at  night  : 
 
 And  thofe  that  love  the  Afnfes  company. 
 
 Do  ufe  their  eys  to  reade  by  Candle-iigir. 
 Artificer,  good  Hpisband,  Merchant^  Knight, 
 
 And  Magifirate^  this  Virtue  doth  defend. 
 
 Nothing  fo  difficult,  but  by  the  might 
 
 Oi'DiUgence^  is  conquered  in  the  end. 
 Therefore  in  all  affairs  (he  is  our  fur  eft  friend. 
 
 I ;  But  none  more  enemies  th^vs Necrlhence^ 
 SloHth^  D  ulntfs^  and  IdUnefs^ 
 Impurelt  mire  of  foul  Conc^p  ifcence^ 
 The  forge  of  Luft,  and  draught  of  fiithinefs ; 
 
 Whence  come  all  Vices,  Sin  and  WicKedne!s-, 
 Which  turn  men  into  Beafts,  like  Siren,^  charms-^ 
 Oh  SUth  1  the  nurfe  and  mother  of  excefs. 
 Like  "^tAtHs  ftanding  ftill  with  folded  arms, 
 
 And  never  moves  to  good,  for  fear  of  future  barms, 
 
 14  UtinecelTary  Burthen  on  the  grouwd. 
 Who  when  he  hath  confumed  all  his  own. 
 Devours  his  friends,  and  then  a  theef  is  found. 
 More  falfe,yea,  than  a  bc^ger  bolder  grown  ; 
 
 For  though  the  beggers-bodies  hands  are  fow .1, 
 And's  minde  is  all  on  floth  and  id;en!:f% 
 Yet  often  in  his  mouth  Gods  Nam.e  is  known  : 
 But  God  all  honeltv  and  fnamefall: nefs, 
 
 He  loaths  that  is  poltelt  of  Hoth  and  ^u ggiQinefs. 
 
 3  5  A  Sluggard  is  unto  him felf,  and  all 
 h  mofl  pernicious  wicked  enemy. 
 By  Sloth  hif  minde  and  body  foone  do  fall 
 To  ficknefTes,  and  all  impurity  : 
 
 He  is  t\i^  banc  to  4II  good  company, 
 Thcfiinl^irtg  Sefnlcher  of  one  alive, 
 ^W(?Ti?/#/?^f«  .-^  Tuns  of  Iniquity, 
 Whofc  fouls  bafe  eafe^  of  Rcafon  doth  depnv  e, 
 
 Whilft,as  aSwine  with  Maft^their  bodies  fat  and  ciu-ive. 
 
 F  f  3  We 
 
44-$  Of  Diligence. 
 
 1 6  Wc  Sloth^  like  Z^^  ^/i,  at  home  do  finde  : 
 But  iifrcn  out,  you  loud  (hall  hearehim  bray, 
 Jurt  like  a  coward  dog  of  currilh  kinde. 
 
 That  doth  at  harmelefs  Pilgrims  bark  and  bay ; 
 
 But  comes  a  Wolfe,  for  fcarc  he  runs  away  : 
 Like  fearefuU  Hart,  when  as  he  comes  to  fight, 
 But  as  a  Lyon  greedy  of  the  pray  ; 
 All  day  aHeep,  but  in  the  deid  of  night, 
 He  worriech  the  fould,  for  hunger  and  dcfpight, 
 
 17  01:  Diligence  !  perfection  of  all,  • 
 When  as  thou  doft  with  truth  and  vertft  dwell, 
 But  if  to  Fice  and  errour  thou  do  fall. 
 
 Thou  paffeil:  H/tggs  and  Furies  all  of  Hell ; 
 
 Hels  waking  Cerherns  is  not  fo  fell, 
 As  poj>irh  Pnefls,  who  compafs  Sea  and  Land, 
 Into  ( jmraerian  darknefs  to  com  pell 
 Thofe  chat  in  Sun-fhinc  of  the  Gofpel  (land : 
 Thus  diligemlj  they  obey  their  Lords  command. 
 
 1 8  Oh  would  we  be  for  Truth  as  diligent. 
 As  they  for  errour s  and  traditions  vain  I 
 But  I  have  too  much  of  my  hewer  fpenr, 
 Againft  the  Vice,  the  Vertue  to  maintain. 
 
 To  Diligence  1  now  return  again, 
 Vv'hkh  ii^e  hcav'ns  glorious  Sun  doth  never  refl. 
 But  like  a gy^nt  runnes  his  Courfe  amain, 
 llncill  (lie  of  the  garland  be  poiTeft. 
 This  lift's  no  m.tnfion,  but  a  W^j  to  heav'nly  reft. 
 
 35)  In  heaven  are  many  Manftons^httr  we  flay 
 
 Onely  to  ftnifh  that  for  which  wccome, 
 
 J^ trew ant' like  we  fpend  our  time  in  flay^ 
 
 And  be  with  drinh^,  ovjleeping  overcome  : 
 Oh  1  when  our  f^r^/Zbower-glafs  is  run, 
 
 /  na  we  are  cali'd  to  render  our  account, 
 
 O'  ^co  i  and  evill  in  the  body  don  ; 
 
 Our  de'jts,  alas  1  will  all  our  wealth  furmount, 
 AiTJ  uur  OmiJfiLm  more  than  numbers  up  can  count 
 
 This 
 
Of  Dihgettce.  ^^j 
 
 20  This  Diligence  is  like  one  in  a  Mynf  ,^ 
 
 That  digs  much  earth  x  little  gold  to  finde  ; 
 
 Like  Si/ke-wtrm,  who  her  flcndrefl  filken  twine 
 
 By  Diligence  dothona^<?/^rowwyndc 
 Like  hushandman,  \^ho  little  (heaves  doth  bindc 
 
 Wherewith  he  fils  his  Barnes  and  Garners  full : 
 
 Like  little  floncs  by  Morter  faftcombinM, 
 
 Raised  to  a  Temple  lar g  and  beautifull : 
 Like  mighty  hoftes  which  Dnkss  of  Jingle  men  do  cull, 
 
 2 1  Some  by  a  night'  Owle  and  a  dragons  cys, 
 This  virtu  Diligence  have  figured. 
 
 And  therefore  Poets  fables  do  devifc. 
 The  Gslden-fleece^  fo  highly  valued. 
 
 Kept  by  a  Dragons  diligence  and  heed. 
 The  Golden- fleece,  the  Kingdomes  Peace  I  call : 
 The  Dragon,  him  by  whom  all's  ordered  : 
 For  on  whofe  fhouldcrs  fuch  a  charge  doth  fall. 
 He  mufl  be  vigilant,  and  diligent  in  all. 
 
 22  This  Virtue  is  indeed  muil  fovereigne, 
 Ja  higheft  Rulers  which  the  PHhUckJ^^Y-i 
 Who  arc  fet  over  us  for  our  own  gain, 
 
 If  them  as  Gods  Vtcegerc-ats  we  obay  ; 
 
 They  keep  continuail  watch  both  nighc  and  day 
 For  all  our  goods,  fo  they  be  diligeat : 
 God  grant  fuch  Rulers  ever  govern  may\ 
 His  little  Fold  within  this  Hand  pent, 
 To  joy  of  all  our  friends,  and  foes  aflonidiment.^ 
 
 ^3  The  Latkies,  ^Diiigence  derive  from  Love  '■> 
 
 For  he  that  loveth,  doth  ev'n  all  fulfill, 
 
 Yea  nothing  hard  or  difficult  doth  prove 
 
 -To  him,  that  knows'tis  his  beloveds  will ; 
 
 Whofe  hearts  this  glorious  grace  of  Ldve  doth  fiii 
 
 They  here  dcfpifc  all  lofTes,  griefe,  and  pain  : 
 
 Let  heav'nly  love  into  mine  heart  diilill', 
 
 I  worlds  difcouragcments  will  all  difdain  : 
 For  "Diltgence  on  earth,  I  love  in  heav'n  fhalj  gain. 
 -      ■  ■  F  f  4         '  '         Tbl5 
 
44»  ^T  'Diligence. 
 
 s4  Tb  is  love  in  DAvids  heart  doth  fo  tbound. 
 
 It  from  his  cys  and  eye-lids  did  expcll 
 
 All  flecp,  till  he  a  rcfling  place  had  found, 
 
 Wherein  the  Lord  of  life  might  always  dwell. 
 This  made  the  Mount  of  Siort  fo  exccU, 
 
 That  it  the  glory  of  the  earth  became. 
 ,  This  diligence  makes  all  to  profper  well. 
 
 Though  but  ajl^^ri^of  Loves  cciefliall  flame, 
 Jt  gains  us  love  in  heav'n^  on  eartli  eternail  fame» 
 
 ;  5  Oh  bleffed  Taul  had  I  thy  eloquence, 
 Thy  indefatigable  pains  to  found, 
 Thy  wondrous  craveil,care,  and  diligence^ 
 Thy  Mafirrs  will  to  know,  do  and  propound. 
 
 How  many  Seas  of  Bifnops  didfl  thou  found  ; 
 How  didft  thou  preach  by  day,  and  work  by  night ; 
 How  diligently  Heretiekes  confound ; 
 And  ev'n  in  Hr//,  Worlds^  Tyrant Sy  lews  defpight. 
 
 By  Dili^effce  declare  the  power  of  Loves  might. 
 
 ^6  Should  I  the  Fathers  lives  trace  to  the  Floud, 
 And  into  Egjpty  follow  them  from  thence  ; 
 From  thence,  through  wildernefs  to  their  abodc^ 
 By  lordans  banks,  in  Htf^fes^  Cities^  Tents, 
 
 Th(sy  all  are  Maps  to  us  o'[  Diligence, 
 Trom  Genefis  unto  the  Revelacion, 
 Their  Pilgrim.ages  all  hare  reference. 
 To  new  *  lemfalem^  Saints  habitacion  :  '^Rev\  21.16. 
 
 And  we  dlfiofies^  and  Builders  on  that  one  foundacioti. 
 
 '>^j  As  Gsd,  fo  we  muft  work  before  we  reft. 
 
 We  may  not  ceafe  till  all  be  finifhed  : 
 
 In  heav'n  \vc  (liall  enjoy  eternail TCf/^ 
 
 Which  by  the  Sabbaoth  was  prefigured. 
 The  syof/fe  may  fcek,  but  findes  not  in  the  Bed 
 
 Her  Briaegroome  :  he  is  like  the  nimble  Hsnde, 
 
 He  muft  be  *  dillgentlj  followed.:  ?  C^«..3  .i^ 
 
 ISiit  if  by  Diligence  weonte  him  ^n^^^ 
 tlU  skjfjmg  comes  rre  hils  and  mountains  like  tht  mndr* 
 
of  Diltgenct,   •  44P 
 
 And  image-like  to  others  point  out-righr^ 
 Yet  live  in  Careiefncfs,  and  Negligence  •. 
 Jj  like  the  blinde,niay  others  Lampes  inlight. 
 But  ftray  aad  wander  all  the  while  in  night. 
 Our  life's  a  moment  here,  if  we  regard 
 Eternitj  :  A  cUud  to  hcav'nly  light : 
 Like  drop  unto  the  Ocean  compared. 
 Is  earthly  Joy,  to  that  which  is  in  Heav'n  prepared, 
 
 2p  The  Ayer  without  mocion  putrifics : 
 The  flanding-Pool  becomes  unfavourie  : 
 The  hotted  Fier  without  blowing  dies  : 
 The  Land  with  thorns  and  weeds  doth  barren  liej^ 
 
 That  is  not  exercisM  with  husbandry. 
 Thy  houfe  and  houlhold-fhiffe  do  foon  decay. 
 Except  they  be  emploid  continually  : 
 Thy  lockt-up  garments  are  to  Moth's  a  prey : 
 
 All  things  not  us'd,  like  Steel  by  rufV,  confiamc  away . 
 
 30  Look  on  the  nimble  Mecinns  of  the  skie, 
 
 How  ^\\  m^ve  diligent Ij  to  ihtix^nd;  ; 
 
 Look  on  the  Benfis  that  creep,  the  Birds  that  ^y, 
 How  they  no  time  to  Idlenefs  will  lend  : 
 
 Enrthy  though  the  dullefl  Element  doth  fpend 
 Her  flrength,  for  all  the  Crest ures  prefervacion  : 
 The  Creatures  ev'n  their  hioud  and  life  do  fend 
 To  mAn^  for  Life's  and  Bodies  fu dentation. 
 Thus  all  are  diligent  here  in  their  occupacion, 
 
 31  Oh  man '.though  Lord  ofall,  who  yet  art  bora  * 
 To  labour,  as  the  Sparks  do  upward  flie. 
 
 To  learH  here  of  thy  VafTals  do  not  fc^rn,  ..^ 
 
 But  eate  thy  Bread  in  fweat  continually. 
 In  Labour  ^id  the  Fathers  live  and  Aic^ 
 To  dd  Gods  wil!  was  Chrifi  his  drink  and  food. 
 Not  to  </;'/^_/^rr  thereof  with  fubcilty , 
 An  d  nice  diflind:i#n$,  which  do  little  good. 
 But  make  things  eafic  crft,  now  hardlicr  underftooi; 
 
 On- 
 
45^  OfDU'tgtnce 
 
 3  2  One  thing  Is  ncccfTary ,  dtie  and  live  : 
 "jPra^lifi  and  Kno^Udg^  muft  go  hand  in  hand ; 
 The  gods  for  Uh^Hrs^  bleflings  hef  e  do  give. 
 Not  cftrioffs  k^o^ledg :  They  that  undcrfttnd, 
 
 And  yet  forbear  to  do  their  Lords  command. 
 Thereby  mod  inexcufablc  become. 
 When  all  before  the  dreaded  Judg  (hall  fland. 
 More  than  (hall  hear  the  finai  dreadfull  doom,      f  done. 
 
 For  things  omitted  here,    than  things  which  they  have 
 
 35  Like  P/^4r^>T/7*/Z^;»/4;,  we  are  quick  of  Sight 
 Abroad,  at  home  we  lay  afide  our  eys : 
 If  each  his  owr  affaires  could  order  right. 
 That  \  own  would  foon  to  wealth  and  honour  rife  .• 
 The  ftreet,  where  each  his  door  fweeps^  cleanly  licg. 
 1  do  not  here  forbid  all  forreign  care : 
 To  pair  of  Ccmpajfes'l  like  the  wife, 
 Half  of  their  thoughts  at  their  hearts  center  are, 
 
 'the  other,  round  about,  do  for  the  publick  care» 
 
 34  The  Cynick^^  that  be  might  his  hate  exprefs 
 
 To  Slath^  would  often  tumble  up  and  down 
 
 Mis  Tun,  to  keep  himfelf  from  Idlenefs, 
 
 Bife  dmmodyis^  of  all  the  Cefars  known 
 *-       To  bemoftwicked,was  notofhisoWn 
 
 Nature  fo  vile  :  but  when  his  youth  by  cafe. 
 
 Into  contempt  of  Bufi nefs  was  grown,. 
 
 This  was  the  Empires  fatal  laft  difeafe, 
 Which  loft  the  CefarysW  their  fathers  did  incrcafe, 
 
 55  Oh  curfed  Negiigene^e  1  that  doft  confound 
 
 Soulcs,  Bodies,  Churches,  Cities,  Families : 
 •;  No  gracious  Thrifty  will  grow  upon  thy  ground. 
 Thy  Feild  like  wildern^fs  all  barren  hes. 
 It  Soules,  like  detCdly  Ofinm,  ftupiftes : 
 Tt  wirh  difeafes  doth  our  Bodies  fill, 
 P.ils  d  )wn  our  Temples  which  dJi<i  dare  the  Skies 
 Lsyes  ope  the  City  wals  to  Vidors  will, 
 A  '4  thorow  houfes  roofs  rain-droppings  makes  diflill, 
 
 Bewai 
 
^6  Bewail  with  me  the  ruthful  Tragedy, 
 That  Slot^  hath  made  within  this  holy  Land^ 
 I  mean  thofc  *  Houfes  fay r  of  Saadity,       *  Abbeys,  &€. 
 Which  like  fo  many  Pyrami'ds  did  ftand, 
 Eredcd  firft  by  holy  Founders  hand  : 
 rirftraifd  by  "Diligence ^noy^  raz'd  to  ground 
 By  Slouth,  thofc  laz.y-bellj-'gods  to  brand 
 With  fhame,  whofe  Idlenefs  did  thus  confound 
 
 Thofc  Places,  where  Gods  holy  Worfhip  (hould  abound. 
 
 27  Behold  with  Solomon^  ihcfluggards  field. 
 
 Which  all  ore-grown  with  Mofs  and  Bufhes  lies, 
 
 Whilft  Rents  and  Sales  to  him  abundance  yeeld. 
 
 He  looks  not  after  Induftries  iupplies, 
 
 Like  Grafs-hopper,  he  skipping  lives  and  dies. 
 
 Or  ftarvcs,  if  Winter  bringeth  Poverty  : 
 
 Th'induftrious  Ant,  Bee  he  doth  defpife. 
 
 Oh  Sleth  !  the  fink  of  all  iniquity. 
 That  changell  men  to  fwinifla  Belliality. 
 
 3  8  Awake  yowjluggdrds^  you  that  pour  in  wine. 
 The  day's  at  hand,  when  you  account  fhall  make ; 
 As  of  your  works,  fo  of  your  idle  time  : 
 To  fomc  employment  do  your  felves  betake. 
 
 And  fayl  not  always  on  the  idle  ^ake  ; 
 It  is  a  filthy,  muddy,  ftanding  pool. 
 No  good,  or  honeft  minde  can  pleafure  lake. 
 To  row  at  cafe  in  fuch  a  muddy  hole. 
 
 Though  there  his  vefTcrs  fubjed  to  no  windes  controuL 
 
 3P  Oh  you,  whom  God,  cy'ngods  on  earth,  doth  ftile. 
 Withdraw  not  from  the  weight  of  government 
 Your  {houlders,nor  let  Eafeyour  foules  beguile 
 Of  time,  which  (hould  be  in  devocionfpcnt ; 
 
 Rukrs  mull  moft  of  al  1  be  diligent. 
 All  evil  cleaves  on  them  by  Idlenefs, 
 Lool^  on  all  States  and  forreign  Regiment, 
 They  all  corrupt  by  Eafe  ^x\d  flout hfulnefs, 
 
 But  flourilb,  and  grow  flrong  by  frequent  Bn^nefsl 
 
 Yo  .i 
 
452  OfTJiltgence* 
 
 40  You  heavenlj-lVdtchmeny  of  whom  I  defirc 
 Rather  to  learn,  than  teach  you  ought  to  mend, 
 Mark  oncly  what  PahI  doth  of  you  require. 
 With  diligeme  your  felves  and  flocks  attend ; 
 
 God  made  you  Over-feers  for  that  end : 
 •  As  nought  more  than  alfiduous  Exercife 
 Of  Soul  and  Body,  doth  from  fins  defend. 
 So  nothing  fillt  them  with  iniquities. 
 More  than  this  fluggilh  flouth,  and  idle  vanities. 
 
 41  EliAn doth  o^ i\\' Egypt UnT) sg report. 
 That  when  he  drinks,  he  never  flandeth  ftill 
 By  Rivers  fide,  left  poyfonousbeafts  him  hurt. 
 Who  ly  in  wait,  him  whifft  he  drinks,  to  kill : 
 
 Oh  could  we  fee  the  pojfoning  Serpent  ftill. 
 Waiting  ocafion  with  invenomed  fling, 
 Our  bones  with  Lufl  and  Luxury  to  fill. 
 And  us  hyJloHth^  and  Idlenefs  to  bring 
 To  carelefnefs  of  God,  and  any  holy  thing. 
 
 42  T  hat  thus  would  wyndc  us  from  all  Diligence. 
 Like  lazy  ^///^^4r^j,onely  to  rely 
 
 Upon  th'Almightics  care  and  Providence ; 
 But  lo,  the  IfrAelites  fend  firft  to  fpy 
 
 The  earthly C/r^/f^^,  which  did  typific 
 That  hcav'nly  ;  whither  through  this  iVildernefs^ 
 We  muft  not  hope  to  pafs  fo  eafily  ; 
 They  wan  the  Cities  which  they  do  pofTefs, 
 With  pains  and  T>iligeftce,  not  floth  and  idlenefs, 
 
 43  This  was  their  w^*;,  this  alfo  muft  be  ours; 
 .Prieflsfeet  the  flouds  of  fordAtt  may  divMc, 
 
 Their  trtrnpfK^thvovf  doun  JeriMs  proud  cowers;  % 
 But  y^^  wilf  many  bloudy  blowes  abide. 
 
 He  little  thinks  Hels  force,  that  never  tridc. 
 1  KAma/e  kip  e  s  9.f\d  Mo  aI^W  ill  iff^Ly 
 To  flop  thy  courfe  to  hrd^ns  fruitfnll  fide : 
 Thou  mufl  with  DiligtHce  maintain  thy  way. 
 And  fight  with  hardy  refolucion  night  and  day. 
 
 Lord 
 
44  Lord  grant  I  may,  like  Taul,  be  diligent. 
 Who  wrought  hts  own,  and  ^11  the  Souls  to  fave. 
 That  with  him  in  the  (hip  to  Cafar  went : 
 
 And  though  he  knew,  that  God,  who  to  him  gave 
 Ev'n  all  their  lives,  his  promife  would  not  wave  : 
 Yet  fee,  he  leaves  not  any  means  untryde. 
 Lord  grant  me  Diligence  aright  to  crave. 
 And  Ratience  thy  leafure  to  abide. 
 So  nothing  that  I  ask,  (hall  be  to  me  denyde. 
 
 45  My  Mttfe  would  fain  aboard,  but  Diligence 
 Would  ncfer  let  my  Meditation  end. 
 
 And  blames  me  fore,  that  I  with  Negligence, 
 Too  brief  the  ftory  of  her  Prayfe  have  pcnn'd ; 
 
 But  Can  and  Labor  next  I  muft  attend ; 
 Which  two,  with  Diligence,  go  hand  in  hand : 
 God,  better  luck,  me  in  their  prayfcs  fend  ! 
 I  now  will  drive  my  little  Btat  to  land. 
 And  reft,  that  I  more  ftoutly  may  to  labor  ftand. 
 
 M  E« 
 
C4541 
 
 Meditation    IV, 
 
 of  C^rednd  La.bor. 
 
 Y  freer  Mufe  now  like  a  Faulcon  flyes^, 
 '-*-Who  having  ftoupc  a  Mallard  tt  the  Brook; 
 Remounts  again  up  to  the  azure  skyes, 
 And  for  a  fecond  iJo///^  at  him  doth  look  : 
 
 But  fuddenly  (he  hath  that  Prej  forfook, 
 And  towreth  at  a  Hero;t  in  the  Ayre : 
 So  though  at  firft  my  Mufe  had  undertook 
 Fair  Ab^inence ;  yet  feeing  Thrift  doth  pray  her^ 
 To  fing  of  Can  and  Labor  next,  I  will  obey  h^r. 
 
 2  This  Book  indeed  I  wholly  do  intend 
 
 Unto  the  honor  of  FrHgalitj, 
 
 And  moral  virtues  that  her  Grace  attend : 
 
 But  fo  my  Mufe  doth  love  her  liberty, 
 And  at  the  fairefl  is  fo  us'd  to  fly  ; 
 
 She  will  not  leave  her  hcavnlj  meditaciorty 
 
 For  any  Flower  of  Human ttj  : 
 
 Her  Food  divine  of  holy  Contemplacion, 
 For  any  earthly  Good,  Content,  or  Deledacion, 
 
 5  IgrsLiuindQed^th^it moral meditacioft 
 May  much  amend  our  manners,  and  our  mindej 
 But  no  fuch  plcafing  tafle  and  fuftentacion. 
 As  in  divifte,  the  foui  of  man  can  findc  ; 
 
 And  therefore  though  I  often  am  indindc. 
 The  prayfc  of  moral  Virtues  here  to  fing. 
 My  freer  Mufe  that  wifl  not  be  confinde. 
 Runs  flraight  on  heavrJj  Contemplacions  firing, 
 
 ilU  1,  in  others  H^rvefis,  love  not  meddeling, 
 
 4  An4 
 
of  Care  and  Labor „  ^ ^  c 
 
 4  And  yet  1  hope  no  wifer  Clerks  will  blame 
 M;^  boldnefs,  here  to  tallc,  by  mcditacion. 
 
 The  Myflcrycs ;  whofe  knowicdg  they  proclaini 
 To  us,  as  necefTary  for  Salvacion  : 
 
 thereby  to  fquarcour  Lives  and  Converfacion, 
 Afad  though  indeed  my  Writings  I  intend, 
 F6r  others  mindcs  and  manners  reformacion. 
 Vet  if  hereby  I  may  mine  own  amend, 
 I  have  attained  more  than  half  my  wiflied  end. 
 
 5  (^are'^  an  attent  intcncion  of  the  minde. 
 To  any  thing  that's  needful!  to  be  done, 
 Which  good  and  honefl:  to  our  felves  we  finde. 
 And  may  unto  the  publick  profit  come  : 
 
 Labor  puts  Care  in  cxecucion. 
 And  is  our  mindcs  and  bodyes  Energy, 
 In  any  bufinefs  by  Ctre  begun  : 
 For  when  to  Bufinefs  we  do  apply 
 Our  feJves,  we  call  that  Labor,  Pains,  and  Indufirj, 
 
 6  ^^r^  comes  from /r/f/ chief  Vigor,  Strength,  and  Light; 
 And  ready,  watchfull  evermore  doth  (land  : 
 
 Labvr,  the  Bodyes  Facultj  is  hight. 
 
 Which  doth  perform  the  thing  we  have  in  hand  : 
 
 Where  thefe  two  ^ew'rs  of  aEikn  do  band, 
 We  Adors  and  Diredors  call  them  may  • 
 One  doth  what  work  the  other  doth  command : 
 For  as  the  Body  doth  the  Soul  obay, 
 So  Labor  is  to  noble  Care  obedient  ay. 
 
 7  X^o?*  and  C^yf,  (imply  CO nfidcrcd, 
 Nor^W,  nor  ill  are,biit  indifferent. 
 
 And  not  amongft  thofe  Virtues  numbered; 
 Which  in  the  Court  of  Love  are  eminent ; 
 But  for  they  nothing,  that  h  excellent. 
 Can  without  Care  and  Labers  help  attain. 
 All  in  their  Company  take  great  content, 
 And  honor  much  amon^d  Loves  royal  train : 
 And  glad  is  Cie,  thtc  can  their  bcft  acquaintance  gain : 
 
 1  8  Core's 
 
45^  Of  Cah  Ar,i  Lahtrl 
 
 8  (^art*^  like  an  old  cxpcrienc'd  General, 
 Too  weak  to  fight,  yet  orders  all  the  Hofle : 
 Labor  is  lufty ,  valiant,  young,  and  tall, 
 h  nd  ftrikes,  where  Foes  he  may  endanger  moft ; 
 
 ,  ^ure  hath  an  ey  about  to  every  CoafV, 
 With  ail  advantages  to  win  the  day  : 
 Anw'   hough  more  fweat  and  bloud  it  Lnhor  cofl 
 Yet  which  deferveth  beft,  'tis  hard  to  fay ; 
 Neither  had  won  the  field,  had  one  but  been  away* 
 
 ^  When  lupitsr  and  Hercules  would  firame. 
 Three  nights  at  once  he  with  AlcmenA  lay : 
 Thus  to  beget  one  that  fhould  Monfters  tame. 
 Men  loft,  to  lengthen  out  the  night,  a  day ; 
 Befides,  the  pangs  of  Birth  her  io  difmay. 
 It  little  faird,  but  (he  had  born  her  lall. 
 !|y  witty  Fidions,  Foets  thus  bewray , 
 How  it  loves  ordinary  ftrength  furpafl", 
 
 A  tru  Idea  of  high  Lalror  hccr  to  caft. 
 
 10  And  thus  they  make  love,  Hercules  his  Sire,' 
 Who  mufl:  on  earth  all  Labors  undertake  j 
 And  cleanfe  \\>orlds  Stables  from  impure!!  mire. 
 And  J$ve  of  him  a  mighty  god  fhould  naakc. 
 
 To  tell  what  for  immortal  Honors  fake 
 He  did,  were  too  long  for  a  Meditation  : 
 He  made  the  Iron-gates  of  Hell  to  quake. 
 And  Jtla^'likc^  bare  up  the  worlds  foundation. 
 
 What  can  be  more  for  Care  and  Labors  commendation  ? 
 
 3 1  No  good  thing  without  Care  and  Labtr  grows, 
 With  them  is  Thrift,  without  a  barren  Soil : 
 Labor  incrcafeth  Hrength,  and  who  her  knows, 
 Doth  pafs  through  hardeft  journey  without  toil. 
 
 Labor  our  fiercenefs  natural  mxj  ipoil. 
 But  raifeth  Virtu  :  Labor  ^oA  reftofc 
 Thofe  that  are  fall'n  :  things  hardeft  reconcile. 
 She  Virtu  by  employment  furthers  more. 
 
 In  all  acchi^vemenw  Captain  Laker  goes  bcfpre- . 
 
of  Care  and  I  ah  our.  4  5  7 
 
 2  And  TUafurc  follows :  for  oblcrve  thefe  two, 
 Delight  and  Labour  though  much  differing 
 
 In  nature,  yet  they  link^t  together  go  ; 
 Delight^  I  fay,  ftill  Labour  following  : 
 -  For  things  we  labour  moft  to  pafs  to  bring. 
 We  joy  m  more,  than  thofc  which  us  befall 
 By  Chance,  and  without  pains  and  labouring. 
 That  Cenqnefi  is  moil  glorious  of  all, 
 ^hich  hath  iildanger'd  mofl  the  Hefi  and  General. 
 
 3  Nofolace  without  Labour :  no  man  gains 
 TheHoncy  without  danger  of  the  Sting  : 
 He  that  will  have  the  Kernel  mufl  take  pains 
 To  break  the  (hel :  who,  fweeteft  Rofe  in  Spring 
 
 Will  gather,  fears  not  Bu(bcs  prickeling  : 
 But  he  that  in  his  bofom  hides  his  hand, 
 Whom  henoHr,  profit,  fear ^  nor  Jhan^e  can  bring 
 Toa^ion^hut  doth  all  day  idle  Hand, 
 t  hates  all  Vertu,  and  is  hated  by  their  Band. 
 
 ^  The  Roots  o^  Arts  are  hitter ,  but  they  bear 
 JThe/W^ftf/ fruits :  we  can  no  Good  obtain 
 ;But  by  hard  Labour.,  Thus  if  we  prepare 
 Us  quiet  Peace,  what  happinefs  we  gain  ! 
 
 The  Mind's  and  Body's  reH:,  them  fits  again 
 For  Cares  and  Labours  new :  as  j?<?w  unb^nt^ 
 Or  LutffirtHg  loo  fed  to  a  lower  ftrain. 
 That  it  may  be  up  to  a  higher  pent, 
 nd  that  the  Boyp  may  fhoot  the  Wronger  newly  bent-, 
 
 God  here  hath  placed  on  our  cither  hand. 
 Commodities  and  Difcommodities : 
 Thcfc  near,thofe  far,Z^^o«r 'twixt  both  doth  fland  - 
 To  thcfe  a  way  prone  and  precipite  lies. 
 
 Who  comes  to  thofc,  great  difficulties  tries, 
 Which  they  by  Labour  ©nely  overcom. 
 Labour  which  wife  mens  wifties  here  fupj)I ies, 
 ^nd  doth  to  them  tlie  truftieft  Guide  becom, 
 *A  fro>m  their  infancy  ;iintQ  their  rcfting  Tomb.'    , . 
 
^.58  OfCAreAndLAhcm. 
 
 iu  Worfc  than  the  vilefl  Infidel  is  he, 
 
 That  will  not  care  nor  labour  for  his  own  ' 
 
 How  mdiW^ goods  and  ifenejits  there  be. 
 
 To  men  on  earth  by  Care  and  Labour  known ; 
 S  )  many  ills  by  Carclcfnefs  arc  fown. 
 
 Bale  Carelefnefs  and  Slouth  !  but  I  before 
 
 In  DiU^encg  their  Pedigree  have  fliown  : 
 
 I  fing  the  Vcrtu  fof  the  Vice  no  morej 
 She  to  my yl/Af/e' yeclds  matter  mod  abundant  Hore. 
 
 ^  7  Tor  Care  and  Lahur  is  the  very  hern 
 O^  Amalthea^  and  all  plenteous  flore  : 
 She  brings godd'hujhands  ftore  of  grafs  and  Corn, 
 And  plentifully  feeds  the  hungry  poor  ; 
 
 She  makes  the  Shepherds  lambs  grow  great  and  more. 
 She  is  the  (lay  of  Trades  and  Merchandize ; 
 As  good  on  furgirig  Teas,  as  on  the  fhore : 
 All  needful!  things  (he  by  her  haui  %)p lies': 
 
 Labour  moft  adive  is.  Care  politick  and  wife. 
 
 1 8  Like  Ahijhai  and  loah  when  they  fought 
 With  tAmmon,  and  the  Sjrians^  on  the  plain, 
 Both  conftant,  noble,rcfolute,  and  flout, 
 Both  flriving,  that  they  may  the  day  obtain  : 
 
 If  that  the  Syrians  ground  on  Ahah  gsin. 
 Then  Jhijhai  muft  help :  \H\i*  AmmQnite 
 Trcvayl /gainft  Ahijhai,  loab  again 
 Mu(^  fuccour  him,  with  all  his  force  and  might, 
 
 (^<iY€j.abotir  thus,from  lofs,  each  mutally  acquit ^ 
 
 1  p  Labour  between  the  Graces  and  the  Minde^ 
 Is  as  the  Itght  'twht  colours  and  the Jight : 
 As  without  light  theEye  is  always  biinde. 
 So  without  Labour  dwels  the  minde  in  night-^ 
 
 And  as  the  Lord  ordained  hath  the  Light,  c-  ^ 
 
 To  be  the  mean  here  colours  to  difcern, 
 So  Labour^  he  appoynts  the  mediurn  right, 
 Whereby  the  minde  may  Grace  and  Vcrtu  Icarn,' 
 
 And  joyn  them,  fait  together  by  -a  force  ijotcrn. 
 
 20  Andf 
 
of  Care  Mrtd  Ldhoui^  45^ 
 
 20  An  d  as  all  life  a  nd  aEiive  ftrength  proceed 
 "^Yom  feedings  fo  from  Labour  all  our  good  : 
 And  as  men,  to  prolong  their  life,  do  ittdi. 
 So  good  men  have  for  good  to  Labonr  itood. 
 
 As  neceflary  to  our  life  isfood^ 
 So  unto  honefij  is  exercife  ; 
 And  as  none  will  cxpc&.frHit  from  the  wod 
 Except  he  blojfoms  firft  thereon  efpies. 
 So  there's  no  hope  of  ^^^,that  ^ains  iiiTouth  dcfpifc, 
 
 21  And  as  we  nothing  to  our  healths  do  finds 
 More  dangerous,  than  ^jers  a/teraclon. 
 
 So  nought  more  hurts  th^Body  and  the  Minde 
 Than  change  to  Jlnggifhngfs  from  recreacion. 
 'Delight  or  Labour,  without  moderacion, 
 Deftroy  mens  bodies,  and  their  wits  confound^ 
 JLike  Nightingales,  that  take  fuch  deleftacion. 
 Sweet  notes  above  their  fellowcs  to  propound. 
 Their  Spirits  fayl,  and  they  are  dead  with  iingmg  found, 
 
 22  Many  will  labour,  but  they  foar  too  hie. 
 Or  elfe  moft  bafely  link  down  to  the  deep ; 
 They  ey  tker  will  into  Gods  fecrets  pry. 
 Or  down  into  Earths  bafer  bowels  creep  % 
 
 A  few  or  none  tru  moderacim  keep  ; 
 They  either  dive  for  proffits  bafe  and  vain. 
 Or  ciime  up  to  Gods  fecret  Mountain  fteep  : 
 In  both  their  fteps  no  longer  do  remaia. 
 Than  way  of  Bird  in  th'ayre,  or  (hips  upon  the  Main. 
 
 33  Yeti  that  the  LMufes  Secretaries  are. 
 
 And  pen  the  counfels  of  the  King  of  Kings, 
 
 I  know  your  labour^  Induftry,  and  Care> 
 
 To  underftand  and  publifh  holy  things : 
 
 Which  unto  you  fuchjoy  and  Pleafure  brings. 
 
 As  wc  that  fcelit  oflcly  underftand. 
 
 Yet  mount  you  high,  Stl  fries  your  waxen  wings^" 
 ,  If  lo\«r,  them  Neptune  wets  with  waving  hand  : 
 the  goideii  Me4n  "vf^lxx  two  extreams  doth  always  fian d; 
 
4<^o  OfCAYtAniLfihoHr, 
 
 23  Bafe  wretched  Cans  \  whofe  Lahdnris  in  filinf , 
 Which  bring  us  terreurs  in  trii  fleafures  iieed, 
 llncefTantly  here  taking  paines  to  win 
 
 Bafe  Adammon^  and  this  worlds  tinrigliteous  meed. 
 Or  an  amhiiions  humour  bafe  to  ittC.^ 
 
 Or  i\\€\xrn£An  Houfe  to  highefl:  pitch  to  rajfe^ 
 r-    Or  for  Revenge,  or  luflfuU  wicked  Deed, 
 
 Or  to  gain  popular  a^plaufe  or  prajfe. 
 And  be  a  precedent  unto  fuccceding  dayes. 
 
 24  As  greater  ^pU'//,  though  they  be  flrong  of  wing. 
 With  bodies  burthen  arc  fo  weighed  down. 
 They  cannot  rjount  like  nimble  Lark  in  Spring: 
 So  minds  of  men  to  this  worlds  Carej  faft  fown, 
 
 Soon  like  this  world,  are  grofs  and  heavy  grown  : 
 And  though  they  might,  by  noble  Indp:ftrjy 
 Be  raifd  again  to  underftand  their  own  ; 
 Yet  ftupid,  fenflefs  on  the  dunghill  li^^ 
 Drunk  with  foul  Eafe,  and  this  worlds  bafe  Commodity. 
 
 257  hefe  lovers  of  the  world,  though  they  wax  ftrong 
 In  things  terreke,  in  hcav'uly  weaker  grow  ^ 
 I  or  wer/dj-hnour  they  will  fweat  and  throng. 
 But  to  win  Corwnes  in  hcavn  arc  dull  and  flow  : 
 
 For  worldly  Gain  they  ought  will  undergo. 
 From  heav'nly ,  leaft  reproach  or  (haaie  will  bend : 
 For  Primres favours  they  whole  dayes  will  woo. 
 But  not  one  hour  to  God  in  Prayer  fpend  : 
 
 This  prefent  Shews,  not  future  Glory,  all  intend. 
 
 2  6  What  Labour  hard,  what  time  can  we  think  long. 
 Which  doth  to  us  etcrnall  glory  gain  1 
 To  have  our  wils  no  Ubour  lecms  too  ftrong  ^ 
 For  Vertu,  wee'll  not  lead  deHght  refrain., 
 Think  but  what  holy  Lahonr  may  obtain^ 
 A  certain  hope,  and  fwcct  remuneracion, 
 Of  which,  the  Saints,  forfaking  Pleafurcs  vain^ 
 Iiave  by  their  lives  giv'n  plenteous  commendacioHj^ 
 
 Here  U^onrin^  ail,  whileft  they  liv'4  in  their  Vokacion." 
 
 Here 
 
of  Care  md  Lab  our '  ^61 
 
 27  Here  Plenty  makes  m©  fparing  :  read  the  afts 
 Of  all  the  holy  fathers  till  the  Flood, 
 Prom  thence,  to  Egypcs  "Bondage :  next,  the  fads 
 O^Mofes ,  hfuAh^  Kings  an d  lodges  good  : 
 
 Have  they  not  ail  for  Labour  ftoutiy  flood  ^ 
 This  (hunning  Labour  by  a  Hermits  Cell , 
 A  late  device  is  of  Remes  lazy  fcroo^,- 
 To  mumble  Prayers,  and  their  Bea^s  to  tell. 
 But  take  n©  Care  for  neighbour,  Church,  orCommonwcal. 
 
 ^8  Is  this  Fafils  Watching,  Pain,  awd  Wearincfs, 
 Thirft,  Hunger,  Scourgmgs,  Nakednefs,  and  Cold, 
 Perils  by  land,  by  water  fore  Diftrefs  ? 
 Befidcs,  his  outward  /^^oi<r/  manifold. 
 
 His  inward  Cares  the  Churc^h  in  Peace  to  hold  / 
 A  living  man  lye  buried  in  a  tomb. 
 Left  worldly  cares  and  labours  him  withhold 
 From  contemplation  of  that  heav'nly  room,. 
 
 Where  never  fuch  a  ilothfull,  idle  wretch  (hall  come. 
 
 ip  BrsLYCaBhe  fpirits  1  though  in  Contemplation 
 I  fpend  much  time,  yet  I  your  livesdo  hold 
 To  be  more  worthy  praife  and  admiracion. 
 You  bring  to  us  dMgood^  and  HI  withhold. 
 
 You,  whofe  great  cares  and  labours  do  uphold, 
 Like  Atlas  (houlders,  Civili  Government; 
 Y  )ur  Splendors  we,  your  cares,  cannot  behold, 
 W^ho  know  the  Care  and  Weight  of  Regiment, 
 
 Would  never  envy  them,  xhtir  gUrj  and  content. 
 
 50  O  Mufes  Darlings  I  do  not  then  abufc 
 Your  heavnly  Numbers^  (  which  the  Mufes  lend 
 To  honour  of  Authority  to  ufc  )  .  ,   . 
 Their  names  with  blots  and  infamy  to  blend. 
 
 Your  Mufe  not  able  is  to  apprehead 
 Their  deep  Forefighr,  that  States  »nd  Klngdorr.s  fway : 
 With  care  and  labour  they  at  Helm  a.ttend. 
 That  fleep  and  fing  in  fhif  you  fafely  may : 
 
 No^f»r/p  Bog  will  ac  \iXs,K€efer  bark  and  bay.. 
 
 Gg  3  Gre^t 
 
4^3  of  Care  Mffd  Labour. 
 
 3 1  Grsat  Keeper  of  this  famous  Brittijh  He ! 
 Ho'^  doft  thou  care  and  /^hhr  for  our  eafc ; 
 Befidcs  Kings  ordinary  Paynes  and  Toyl 
 In  Government,  thy  Writings  do  increafe 
 
 To  largeit  Volumes,  for  the  Churches  Peace  : 
 For  Chriil-s  pure  S^onfe,  and  thy  deare  Kingdomes  ^eaU  : 
 1  hy  fFatchiH£s,  Prajers^  Labours,  never  ceafe, 
 Elfe  bios'mes  of  Vines,  the  Foxes  foon  would  ftcalc. 
 
 Or  vpiide  'Bore  root  up  all  thy  Church  and  Commonwcalc. 
 
 5  2  When  in  his  large,  wife,  underftanding  heart. 
 We,  for  our  Good,  fuch  cares  continuall  fee. 
 What  fecret  Malice  can  a  man  pervert. 
 To  deem  that  in  his  Love,  and  Wifdom,  he 
 
 Advance  will  any  to  Authoritie ; 
 But  whom  he  ev*ry  way  doth  able  finde. 
 To  care  and  Ubour  for  the  fafety 
 Of  Church  and  Kingdom ,  to  his  care  a  fli  gn*d  / 
 
 Wife  Makers  befl  diS:ern  how  Servants  are  inclin'd, 
 
 ^3  Great  Pfifr/ appointed,  by  this  Mafl:er7i?(/ir, 
 ^  To  Rule  his  Kingdoms  and  adorn  his  Hally 
 
 Of  him  learn  Labour  and  brave Exercije^ 
 
 And  doe  not  unto  idle  gaming  fall. 
 The  Bane  of  0«rf ,  Town,  Cuntrey^  Church  and  ali : 
 
 Oh  fpend  the  time  you  from  cmploiment  fpare. 
 
 In  Tilting^  Huntwgj  Arms,  Arts  Liberally 
 
 An  d  fo  with  Piety  your  minds  prepare. 
 To  labour  in  your  charge^  and  have  ofheav*n  a  care, 
 
 34  Befides  examples  of  your  earthly  King, 
 Look  on  our  Lord  that  fits  in  heavn  above : 
 Who  heer  on  earth  was  alwayes  labouring^ 
 Now  a$  our  Head  himfelfe  he  doth  approve. 
 
 Moil:  careful  I  for  his  Sfoufe  and  deareft  Love. 
 Sec  his  'L>i/ciples^  Saints  and  Martyrs  all, 
 1^0 w  carefull  and  laborious  they  prove, 
 Jn  Writings^  Preachings^  Connf els  generally 
 
 Relieving  poior  inwant^  redeeming  Saints  from  thralf, 
 
 "       35  Could 
 
3  J  Could  Sloth  ber  ielf e  that  iweet  Delight  but  taflc , 
 Which  comes  ofpatnes  and  honeft  exerci/e^ 
 Her  precious  time  and  flrength  fhe  would  not  wafte. 
 In /^/f/if/f  and  worldly  vanities. 
 
 But  like  to  nimhle  Lark,  would  early  rife. 
 Who  mounting  firfl  to  heav'n  "Vevochrfs  fings. 
 And  afterwards  her  hhfmefs  a  pplyes. 
 So  long  as  Light  lends  ufe  of  cys  or  wing«. 
 
 And  then  in  refi  enjoys  fruit  of  her  trAvclUng. 
 
 36  Moft  fweet  Delight !  at  night  when  wearied. 
 We  end  the  Ci^res  and  Tr9Hhles  of  the  day, 
 \Nhtn  frivat ,  pni^  lie  k^hsi\{ng  profited. 
 We  down  our  fclves  with  Peace  and  Comfort  lay  : 
 
 Not  like  rich  MUers^to  their  Souls,  that  fay. 
 In  this  aboundance  lye  thee  down  and  reft, 
 When  ah  I  Who  knows  but  ev*n  that  night  away. 
 His  Soul  forth  from  his  Body  may  be  preft. 
 And  he  all  unawares  o're  taken  in  his  nefl. 
 
 37  UnnecefTary  L4hHrs ^worldly  Cares^ 
 Which  on  themfclvs,  not  Trovtdence  depend. 
 My  A^ufe  to  them  no  fuch  great  favour  bears. 
 As  heer  amongft  the  Graces  to  commend. 
 
 All  things  created  ferve  unto  their  end, 
 lor  which  God  at  the  firfV  did  them  ordain^^ 
 And  all  unto  his  Glory  doe  intend  : 
 Why  then  fhould  man  be  flothfuil,  idle,  vain. 
 So  long  as  heer  on  earth  he  doth  in  health  remain. 
 
 3 8  He  hath  a  minde  firm,  valid,  rais'd  on  high. 
 Able  to  foar  above  the  tirmament, 
 
 And  by  iweet  antempUtion  to  defcry 
 
 The  hcav  ns  fwift  Mocion,  Order,  Government : 
 
 All  things  are  fu  jed  to  bis  Regiment, 
 In  fquallid  Sloth  and  cafe  yet  down  he  lyes. 
 Till  thou  who  firft  didft  frame  his  earthly  tent, 
 Doft  raifc  his  mind  to  hea  v'nly  exercife, 
 Which  may  by  C^rc  and  Z4''$ur  him  immortalizeo 
 
 Gg4  ^^^^ 
 
A  54  OfCdre  and  Labouy- 
 
 3P  He  that  this  4//  did  firfl:  of  nought  ordain. 
 
 And  now  it  governs  by  wife  ProviAtnce, 
 
 Is  by  bis  "Bdnnty  able  to  fuflain. 
 
 All  chofe  that  lahoptr  with  tru  Diligence  : 
 Sure  he  will  give  abundant  recompcncc 
 
 To  all,  who  careful!,  faithfully  do  hcr» 
 
 Rely  on  him,  without  lead  diffidence : 
 
 He  for  his  Foes  did  fpcnd  hij  blood  moft  dear^ 
 Why  then  ihould  Freinds  diflruft  his  Providence  and  Cart  I 
 
 40  Kindle  thy  Love  then  in  my  frozen  brefl, 
 rvame  in  my  minde  a  ftudy  and  defire, 
 To  follow  thee  that  canft  dired  me  bcft. 
 By  thy  command  to  march  on  or  retire. 
 
 Awakt  m.c from  S/oHth' filthy  durt  and  mire^ 
 Lt^  darkpefs  me  fafl  fleeping  apprehend, 
 Trorti  which  to  AV^.aqain  is  no  retire. 
 Let  me  no  hour  uyiprofirahly  fpcnd, 
 Kor  pafs  one  day  unfruitfuiiy  unto  mine  end  1 
 
 41  'Xhzt  faithful ferv ant* s  blelling  on  him  light. 
 Whom  Thou  fo  doings  when  thou  com'ft  fhalt  finde ^ 
 Grantj  ^-hatfoever  hour  of  the  night 
 
 }vly  Lord  and  Mafter  comes,  my  foul  and  mindc 
 [       May  to  continual  watching  be  indin'd  : 
 
 But  Icfl:!  Ubturht^t  too  long  in  vain, 
 
 1  next  will  pafs  unto  my  Port  ailigwM, 
 
 To  DtAth ;  the  end  of  all  my  Care  and  P4>>, 
 To  gr^ve^  where,  till  the  final  doom,  I  muft  remain. 
 
 ^2  There  quiet  I  fhall  fleep  and  be  at  reft 
 With  Kings,  which  here  their  houfes  HVd  with  gold. 
 And  Emperours,  which  all  the  world  poffeft. 
 Yet  all  too  fhaight  ambicious  thoughts  to  hold : 
 
 There  fmall  and  great/ree,bond,nch,poor,young,oJd^ 
 OpprefTors,  prilbners,havc  like  fruicion 
 Of  rcTt ;  All  turn  again  to  duft  and  mould. 
 As  fmall  an  Vm  then  limits  the  Ambiciori 
 
 Of  "jp  opes,  and  Cef^rs,  as  of  Beggers  mean  condicionc 
 
[4^5  1 
 
 M  E  D  I  T/i  TI  ON     V, 
 
 Of  Death. 
 
 COmCi  let's iliakc  hands,  we  in  the  end  muft  meet : 
 I  have  provided  me  this  goodly  Chain 
 Of  Gracis,  at  thy  coming  thee  to  greet. 
 For  thou  wilt  not  for  favour,  gold  or  gain. 
 
 Thy  fatal  llroke,  one  moment,  heer  refrain  : 
 Well,  clofemine  ejs^  and  dim  mj  Btdyes  Light ^ 
 Thefc  (hining  Gems  for  ever  (hall  remain. 
 My  foul  for  to  enlighten ;  Oh  I  ihe-n  fmite, 
 It  skils  not  whea,  nor  how,  fo  as  my  heart  ft  Ands  right. 
 
 2  Ah  I  why  look'fl  thou  fo  pale,  as  thou  didfl  fear  ? 
 Thee,  before  men  and  Angels,  I  forgive, 
 
 I  wifh  thee  not  a  minute  to  forbear, 
 J  never  (hall  the  ^  iff  of  Ghrj  live, 
 
 Till  thou  unlock'ft  the  door  my  foul  to  give 
 Enlargement  from  this  Prifon-hcufe  of  clay. 
 For  which  (he  long  hath  ftruggeled  and  ftriv^ 
 Yet  flill  the  FUfii  the  Spirit  down  dot?h  waigh  ; 
 And  fitting  'cis  I  (hould  my  Makers  leafure  flay. 
 
 3  Thou  efirthquahj-like  this  Prifen-houfe  muft  (hake^ 
 Before  my  Soul  be  loofed  from  her  Bands, 
 
 And  make  my  Keepers  tremble  all  and  quake^ 
 Lo  then  a  holy  Angel  ready  flands. 
 
 To  fave  her  from  Hells  batches  grizly  hands  : 
 And  though  Heav'ns  fudden  Light  my  Soul  amate, 
 She  forward  goes,  and  nothing  her  withflands, 
 A  joyfull  entrance  to  mofi:  happy  flate. 
 Thus  pafs  we  thorow  Deaths  door, in  tt  Heavens  n^rrmgate. 
 
4c  6  uj  ueath. 
 
 ^  Wclcom,  tspefy  to  them  that  right  th«  know. 
 And  cafie  as  a  Douny  Bed  of  Rell, 
 But  thou  mofi:  ga^ly-tcrriblc  doft  (how. 
 To  thofe,  that  thou  dofl  unawares  arrcft :  (preft  • 
 
 Sweet  Hav'ft  to  Souls  with  worlds  windes,  waves  ,op- 
 A  Ktckjo  thofe  that  fwim  in  fweet  Delight : 
 Sweet  hoaft  of  Saints,  who  with  Perfumes  hath  drcft 
 The  Bedsy  wherein  their  Bo'djes,  all  the  night. 
 May  reft,  till  Trumpets  found,  awake  to  glorious  Light* 
 5  To  Poor  thou  (hew*fl  thy  Honfj,  hid'ft:  thy  Sti/fg, 
 The  Rich  thy  StlHjTy  but  not  thy  Honey  fee. 
 Like  luiUur  thou  dofl:  good  and  hAd  news  bring 
 To  Seuls,  that  in  the  flefh  iraprifon'd  be ; 
 One  muft  dj  ever  ;  th^  other  fliail  be  free. 
 1  hou  that  deft  Death,  to  thine,  bj  dying  make, 
 Tlfey.t{(cng€r  of  fuck  great  joy  And  g/ee, 
 Direii-mj  Klufe.  m  )^hat  I  Hndertaks, 
 That  I  may  Death  dtfcern,  ere  Death  me  overtaks* 
 6  What's  Death  but  a  divorce  or  fepardtion. 
 Of  Af^n  artd  PVife,  that  never  could  agree, 
 From  Bed  and  Bocrd,  and  from  Cohabitation  r> 
 T  he  luiity  Flcjh  pays  Cffts,  the  Soul  is  fiee ; 
 
 Yet  Both  ere  long  (hall  one  another  lee. 
 Freed  irom  foul  Sin,  the  caufe  of  all  their  flrifc. 
 And  fn all  in  WidUckj  Bands  rejoyned  be,  * 
 
 To  love,  and  live,  for  ay,  like  Aian  and  irife, 
 A  hsly,  happy,  qniet,  and  eternal  Life, 
 
 J  But  this  I  of  tht  firft  Death  underftand  ; 
 
 (Lord  1  of  the  /econd,  never  let  me  taftc) 
 
 This  is  the  )^ay  into  the  hoiy  Land, 
 
 That  doth  into rontinnal  darknefs  call : 
 No  mortal  Senfe  did  ever  fee  or  tad 
 
 Thcfeconds  angui(h,  terror,  horror,  pain : 
 
 Thcfirfi  is  (hort,  the  fecondiy  doth  laft. 
 
 Age,  Sicknefs,  men  to  dy  the  firft  conflrain. 
 The  Qgvik  ir:  ihtfccsnd,  S9hU  and  Bodyes  chain. 
 
 8  7hk 
 
of  DeAth.  4^^ 
 
 ;  rhUy  fettcth  ^iUing  Senls  from  Bcdjcs  free, 
 Tkitt^  Souls  in  Bodjes  holds  againft  their  will. 
 By  thiiy  from  Btdjes  Weight  we  quitted  be, 
 7*it4f,withfuchv^«^kof  /wthci'Wdothfill^ 
 
 As  to  the  Ptr  j>/rri</i/ prcfs  it  will : 
 Thts,  takes  good  men  away  before  their  c'me. 
 Left  they  be  over-whclm'd  with  too  much  ill. 
 That,  feizcth  on  the  Wicked,  for  their  crime. 
 Th4t  Icadeth  down  tO'Hcll,  by  this  to  Heav'n  wc  clime. 
 
 The  fiyfl,  hath  onely  power  in  the  Grjive, 
 Seandy  in  HeH  ;  One,  us  deprives  of  fenfe. 
 By  th*  other,  fcnfc  of  endlels  Pain  we  have, 
 'Both,  have  one  name,  yet  fee  their  difference. 
 
 Sin  mother  is  of  hoth :  In  innocence 
 Had  Mam  flood.  Death  never  had  been  known. 
 But  fecondjidam  hath  remov'd  long  fince 
 The  fling  of  this  firft  Death,  ev'n  by  his  own  : 
 Thus  from  a  FUgue,  Death  is  to  Saints  a  favour  grown, 
 
 10  C^rifl  mceteth  her  as  Sfati  on  the  way, 
 And  gives  a  charge  unto  her  ro\*ghcr  hands. 
 No  evil  againft  lacoh  to  affay ; 
 Thus  turns  he  to  embracements  all  her  Bands ; 
 
 'Death,  made  by  Sin  our  mortal  Fo,  pow  ftands 
 Our  firft  faft  Friend,  to  bring  us  unto  blefs ; 
 And  though  a  while  our  Carcafes  fhe  brands 
 With  vile  corruption,  and  Rottennefs, 
 pur  Souls  the  whiift  abide  in  j^j  lad  happinefs. 
 
 11  AW  firft  Death  gcts/isRottennef J  ^ndDufi, 
 A  Body  onely,  in  corruption  Ibwn, 
 To  kill  feeds  of  Goncupifcence  and  Luft, 
 That  it  more  glorious  after  may  be  known. 
 
 Our  earthly  part  thus  turncth  to  her  own. 
 But  fhall  again  a  heavnlj  hody  rife. 
 And  as  at  firft,  be  with  the  Spirit  one, 
 Which^ong  hath  liv'd  in  joyous  Paradife, 
 SNiiWglxWchrifthtx mortal ^oMlmmortartzel  "     '     " 
 
 '""  "    la  Mr,' 
 
1 2  Alas !  why  (Lould  we  then  be  fo  afraid 
 Hecr  to  endure  a  little  grief  or  pain. 
 
 Be  it  on  Rack,,  or  Bed  ?  fo  I  be  layd 
 
 Safe  in  my  Grave,  my  foul  thereby  (hall  gain  ; 
 
 Lord  !  grant  me  Fatth,  and  Patience  to'maintai^ 
 Bells  Uft  encemter,  when  my  Soul  is  (Kakea  I 
 The  holy  Afartjrs  did  not  fo  complain 
 Of  Pain,  when  Soul  was  from  the  Body  taken. 
 As  when  their  Confciercs  by  tentatlon  waj  awaken. 
 
 1 3  This  Death,  though  painfull,  quick  difpatch  doth  make 
 f  hcfecond,  hath  ecer  nity  and  pain, 
 
 They  rightly  at  Death's  horror,  quake  and  (hake. 
 Where  griefs  w^ithin,  more  than  Vpltheut  remain,  ' 
 
 VVhofe  Confcience  them  more  terribly  do  ftrain 
 Than  any  outward  tormevt  they  endure,     '  wtA*^ ." 
 Who  fees  Heav'ns  moft  incomparable  gain,' 
 A.nd  can  thereof  by  Faith  himfelf  fecurc. 
 Is  certain.  Death  can  nought  but  good  to  him  procure- 
 
 i4  For  Bodjfiail,  one  like  his-giorious  Head, 
 For  plcafiares,  profits,  hopes,  and  honors  vain, 
 (Whereby  than  eas'd,  we  arc  more  troubled : ) 
 Eternal  reH,  and  freedom  from  all  pain, 
 
 Were't  thou,  my  Soul,  but  fentenc'd  to  remain 
 In  this  frail  Bedy,  yet  a  thoufand  years. 
 Oh  I  how  wouldft  thou  of  wearinefs  complain. 
 And  maladycs  thy  Flefi  about  her  bears. 
 And  feek  Death  as  a  bleiling  cv'n  with  many  tears  \ 
 
 I )  Yea  fnouid  this  life  lafl  without  tedioufncfs. 
 Oh  !  Do  but  think  that  as  thou  more  doft  fin. 
 Thou  added:  moreunto  thy  wretchednefs. 
 For  Death  at  fir  ft,  by  Sin  did  eater  in. 
 
 Who  would  not  leave  thefe  loathfom  Rags,  to  win 
 That  glorious,  (hiaing  Robe  of  Righteoufncfs  1 
 Thou  (halt^nof  lofe  thy  Body,  but  thy  Sin^ 
 Thou  it  again  fiialt  meet  in  happinefs,  ^ 
 
 Commotion  Hiall  indeed  he  ck^nged,  not  thv  Flejh* 
 
uj  JUT  earn,  ^C9 
 
 Is  not  corfffim'dy  but  cleans' d  from  irofs,  and  triie ; 
 So  fuhfidrtce  of  the  i^o^  doth  not  Vcafii, 
 Onely  by  Df^^/^  is  purg'd,  and  punfide. 
 
 Should  Soffh  hecr  in  their  Tabernac!es*h\ic^ 
 With  all  infirmitycs  till  Day  of  Doofn^ 
 How  weary  would  they  be,  of  reft  ^tnyic. 
 And  wifh  their  Bodyes  flccping  in  their  Tomb^ 
 ntill  the  pjfpdl  Bay  of  Rcfurrcdion  come  i 
 
 J7  So  long  as  heer  our  J?o^f^  do  remain. 
 
 They  have  'like  iVooll  one  tin^lure  natnraL 
 
 But  Death  them  dyeth  all  in  Purple ^rain. 
 
 To  make  them  Robes  for  Sprits  Celefiial, 
 For  we  in  Heav'n  like  Kings  and  Princes  all 
 
 Shall  reign  in  new  lernfalem  for  ay. 
 
 The  Grave  us  like  each  fide  of  Red  Sea  "^ally 
 
 From  cruel  Egypt s  bondage  on  our  way, 
 !)oth  to  the  Land  of  heavenly  Canaan  convay. 
 
 8  As  he,  who  for  ill-doing  lyeth  boued. 
 Trembles  and  quakes  when  loofed  from  his  bands. 
 He  muft  before  the  ludo-ntent  Seat  be  found. 
 To  give  account  for  works  done  by  his  hands, 
 
 But  he  moft  flout  and  refolutclyftands,  | 
 
 Whofe  Confcience  him  of  evil  doth  aquitc  : 
 So  men  rejoyce,  or  fear,  when  Death  commands  I 
 
 Them  to  appear  before  the  Indg  upright, 
 rhere  to  receive;*^/  dtom^  for  things  done  "^rsng  or  right* 
 
 9  What  is  our  Life  ?  a  ^inde,  a  conrfe  to  death  : 
 They  that  on  Earth  the  [ong^^^  courfe  can  gain,  j 
 
 Run  in  the  end  themfelves  quite  out  of  breath. 
 And  no  more  but  ihtix  courfes  end  obtain ; 
 
 To  which,  they  that  live  fewer  years  attain. 
 God  heer  to  men  doth  life,  like  money ,  lend ; 
 Which  at  our  Day  we  mufl^^j  back  again. 
 As  without  (?y/  tne  Lamp  no  light  doth  knA^ 
 
 0  when  omhmnid't  fpcnjr,  our  Uh  is  at  an  end. 
 
 20  Ac 
 
470  Of  De4tk 
 
 JO  As  Pilgiim  with  long  travel  wcaryed. 
 
 Lays  down  his  Fhjh,  to  flccp  in  darkeft  night^ 
 
 But  Vifio/ts  hovcring'about  his  head. 
 
 Do  (hew  unto  his  Soul  moll:  hcav'nly  Light, 
 And  doth  with  Dreams  his  fpirits  fo  delight. 
 
 He  wilheth  oft  the  night  would  ever  laft : 
 
 So  fares  it  with  the  new  deceafedAvight, 
 
 When  in  the  Grave  his  Body  flecpeth  faft. 
 And  Angels  have  his  Soui'm  AbrAms  hefom  placet- 
 
 - 1  As  Stars  of  Heav'n,  which  firft  in  Eaft  do  fhinc^ 
 
 Arifc,  till  their  MeridUn  they  have  paft. 
 
 But  do  from  thence  as  faft  again  decline. 
 
 Till  they  into  the  JVeftem  Seas  are  caft . 
 Ev'n  fo  vain  Mortals,  heer  arc  all  in  hail. 
 
 Till  they  their  higheft;j^>f  ^  of  flrcngth  attain ; 
 
 But  that  once  got,  they /^// again  as  faft. 
 
 And  downward  to  the  Grave  defcend  amain, 
 5ome  heer  a  Jh%rter,  f^fme  a  Unger  courfe  obtain. 
 
 m  Andas  he's  happyeft, whom  the fwifteft  windc^ 
 Brings  foonefl  to  the  Port,  and  Hav'n  of  reft, 
 So's  he,  that  fooneft  in  the  Grave  doth  tinde 
 Harbour  tgainft  worlds  llortrj, which  him  infcfl::, 
 
 Death  doth  but  like  his  brother  Sletf  arreft- 
 The  weary  wight,  where  hft  a  longer  nighty 
 Himfelf  in  Grave ^  than  in  his  i?f^may  reft  ; 
 And  yet  no  longer,  than  till  Chrift  tur  Light 
 
 Awakes  us,  to  enjoy  for  ay  his  glorious  fight. 
 
 ^3  To  all  that  labor,  pleafing  is  the  end ; 
 The  Traveller  inqaireth  for  his  Inn : 
 The  hired  Servant,  when  his  Year  doth  tni : 
 The  Husband,  when  his  Harvcft  doth  begin : 
 
 Merchant  of  his  Adventures  coming  in ; 
 The  Woman  when  her  ninth  Month  doth  expire : 
 So  Saints,  of  Death  have  ever  mindfull  bin , 
 For  Where's  our  Treafure,  there's  our  hearts  defire. 
 
 And  where  Qur  Crown  i$  layd,  our  eys  do  ay  afpirc. 
 
 24  There- 
 
of  Death.  47K 
 
 24  Therefore  the  dying  Saints  like  Swans  do  fing^ 
 Forefeeing,  that  they  in  the  Grdve  (houW  reft 
 IFrom  Labors,  and  be  freed  from  the  fting 
 Of  Sin,  which  hecr  their  lives  did  mofl  infefl : 
 
 Why  (hould  we  with  Deaths  fear  be  fo  diftreft  ? 
 When  as  the  Lord  of  Life  himfelf  did  dy. 
 That  we  from  fting  of  Death  might  be  releaft ; 
 Ev'n  Sin,  the  Caufc  of  all  our  Mifery, 
 And  made  Death  our  firft  ftep  to  tru  Felicity, 
 
 2  5  The  truth  hcerof  the  facred  Pages  fcal. 
 When  that  which  commonly  we  djirtg  call. 
 They  call  it  flee fing :  For  Chrifl  did  repeal 
 The  Ad  of  dyin^t  by  his  Funeral : 
 
 Thus  Patriarchs,  Prophets,  Kings,  Apefiles^  all 
 Lyfleeping,  till  the  final  RcfurrccSion, 
 From  Adam,  to  the  Judgment  general. 
 All  to  this  fatal  Lord  muft  yield  fubjedion. 
 
 And  fleep  fecure  and  found  under  his  fafe  protedlon. 
 
 26  The  Wife-man  therefore,  better  doth  comraeod 
 The  Day  of  Death,  than  of  Nativity ; 
 
 By  that,  our  pains  and  labors  have  au  end ; 
 This,  the  Beginning  is  of  Mifery : 
 
 The  Lfrd  of  life,  who  Life  and  Dcarh  did  try, 
 Proclaimeth  endlefs  Bleffednefj  to  thofe. 
 With  rejifiom  labor,  in  the  Lord  that  dy  ; 
 Bleffed  whom  he  to  live  in  him  hath  chofe, 
 But  till  their  Death,  from  labor  thej  have  no  repofe. 
 
 27  See,  but  how  wifer  Heathens  entertain 
 This  fatal  /^roke,  this  lafi  necejfttj : 
 
 How  they  on  Birth-dajs,  loUd  lament  and  plain. 
 At  ^'^^rr^^/j",  make  mirth  ind  melody ; 
 For  that  l^eghts,  this  edds  all  mifery  : 
 No  man,  fay  they,  thzjt  doth  not  Death  dcfpife, 
 Can  heer  on  earth  enjoy  tru  Ubertj, 
 They  ondy  faw  an  end  of  miferyes, 
 But  lo  !  Heav'n  ftands  wide  open  unto  Chriflians  eyj. 
 
 28  Ahl 
 
-]ff2,  OJ  Lfe/itho 
 
 28  Ah  \v^iy  (hould  Painters  lim  De^th  with  a  Dart, 
 Time  with  a  ijf/7 , before  him  cuts  all  down, 
 7>eath  doth  but  X'^^cf ,  a^nd  play  the  burgeons  part^' 
 Time  fells  the  Corn  that's  ready  to  be  mown. 
 Alas  I  what  Cruelty  hath  Death  us  (hown  ? 
 Thou  art  but  as  a  Servant  unto  Time^ 
 To  gathcp  Fruits  which,  he  fay th,  rij>e  be  grown  • 
 In  frint-prefs  thou  but  treadelt  out  the  fVine, 
 
 To  barrel  up  in  Tembs  that  there  it  may  refine. 
 
 ^9  As  we  green  Fruits  more  difficultly  pull, 
 Tban  thofc  we  finde  hang  ripe  upon  the  Tree, 
 So  youthfull  Sprites  of  heat  and  vigor  full, 
 More  hardly  dy  than  they  that  a^^ed  be : 
 This  is  the  greateft  difference  we  fee, 
 Between  thtiv  courfes  that  are  fiort  and  long^ 
 
 Huth  go  the  broad  way  of  Mortalitj,. 
 
 Death,  like  a  mighty  winde  heer  lays  along. 
 
 As  weak  and  hollow  Elms,  fo  Ctdars  ftout  and  (Irong. 
 
 30  Who  is  fo  frrong  whom  the  hath  not  call  down  ? 
 Look  all'the  Gcnerati$ns  gone  and  pad,    . 
 
 Their  ancient  Mennments  by  Books  are  known^^ 
 in  GrAve  their  Bodyes  all  to  duft  do  wafte ; 
 The  lews  long-Ufe  more  eagerly  embrac'r. 
 As  'twas  a  Type  of  endlefs  happine/s^ 
 But  fince  ChriJ^  in  hisjtuth  of  Death  did  taftc. 
 All  Shbftavces  fulfillM,  their  Figures  ceafe. 
 Now  happyefl:  he  whoni  Death  the  iboneft  doth  relctfc- 
 
 3 1  Happy,  though  clouds  of  fiones  thy  head  infold 
 Like  Steph' ns y(o  open  Heav*ns  (hew  pure  and  clear, 
 And  though  a  Trance  like  Fauls  fo  faft  thee  hold^ 
 That  whether  thou  '^ithom  the  Body  were, 
 
 Or  ifi  the  Body,  thou  canftnot  declare. 
 Though  thus  Death  doth  Yiktfleep  thy  Fledi  arrcfl, 
 The  joys  of  Hcav'n  (hall  to  thy  Soul  appear. 
 Not  to  be  uttered :  Lo,  they  arc  beft 
 '^y  Ne^Ative^.jxothY  AjjirmMivcstyi^x^^.         •      ' 
 
 -3  No 
 
Of  Death.  ,  [  473 
 
 -  No  ey  hath  feen,  no  ear  hath  f  ver  heard. 
 No  heart  conceive,  no  toiing  chat  can  rccice 
 The  Joye^,  th'^/;»/^/7yf  hath  in  hcav'n  prepar'd. 
 For  chein  chat  here  do  live  and  dit  aright : 
 Oh  enter  Soul  fnto  thy  Lords  delight  \ 
 This  joy  thou  canil  not  in  thy  fclf  cov.cain^ 
 For  thou  rirt  bounded,  that  is  infinit ; 
 Who  cntecs,  fhallfor  ever  thore  remain, 
 And  for  tht^tfinit  C^res^  hy  infinit  obtain. 
 
 33  Oh  !  who  can  knov/  this  Death  and  be  affraii  \ 
 Alchough  amongll:  ihtpts  thou  lie  a  time. 
 Thou  like  a  filver  Dove,(halc  be  arraid 
 
 With ga/den  feathers,  which  like  heav'n  (hall  fhlne. 
 
 But  ah  !  Thus  wich  iPxy  felf  I  do  divine. 
 Without  lead  perill,  by  free  Speculacion  ; 
 But  Ihould  Death  fei-z  on  this  my  brittle  firlne 
 And  offer  me  to  act  my  Medit^io^t^ 
 Bow  (hould  1  tremble  ac  my  houles  defclacion  1 
 
 34  Yhat  which  is  now  familiar  to  my  thought. 
 Will  bring  me  then  Amazcmenr,  Horror,  Fear  \ 
 Alas  1  this  batclc's  not  fo  ealily  fought. 
 Except  if^oz;^^  on  our  fide  appear. 
 
 [      Didfl  think,  Diuth  would  with  Complement  forbe?: . 
 
 And  oncly  thee  delight  v^ith  Medic acion  ? 
 
 No,  he  Will  try  what  courage  thou  dofl  bear 
 .  And  feiz  upon  thy  flefies  hahitaclon  , 
 [t  laying  wafte,  till  all  m  Chrlfi  have  refia:r,'acion, 
 
 ]  5  Then  as  I  feel  this  outward  man  decay. 
 
 Grant  I  raty  flrong  and  llronger  grow  within, 
 
 And  by  a  conflant^i^/Zy  djlng  may 
 
 Be  arm'd,  againfl  xiiisflrong  man  enter  in  ; 
 I  ;.    That  though  he  feiz  upon  this  manxfSln, 
 
 My  inward  man  itiay  like  the  filver  Dove^'    ' 
 
 That  newly  hath  cfcap't  the  Fonlers  gin, 
 .  Fly  CO  her  Lord  and  Saviour  above, 
 ^iid  be  embraced  &  hii  blelTed  arms  of  Levc  ^ 
 
TT^F uj-rrrKTW. —  -«^ 
 
 36  Oh  i  there  I  (hallinjoy  etcrnallrclf. 
 
 And  happy  Peace,  which  hcre-I  crave  and  nfiJs, 
 
 And  wander  further  more  and  more  diflreft. 
 
 What  if  Tome  little  pain  in  paflage  is, 
 Which  makes  frail  fledi  to  fear  Tenths  paUid  kifs. 
 
 That  pain's  well  horn,  that  cndiefs  eafe  doth  gain. 
 
 And  from  Sirls  cruell  ilavery  difmifs. 
 
 S^Ieep  after  Tojiy  fair-'^eather  after  Rain, 
 Teace  after  iVarre  j  eafe  is  mod:  pleafing  after  pdi/i . 
 
 57  We  all  are  wanderers  weary  of  our  waj\, 
 
 And  hading  to  the  Grave  our  certain  home : 
 
 This  world's  the  Flood  which  doth  our pujfage  fray, 
 
 TiH  *  Charons  heat  to  waft  us  over,  come,  *  Death 
 
 '    Who  Life  did  limit  by  eternal!  Doom , 
 
 And  timf  s  for  all  things  hath  eflabliflied, 
 
 Appoints  each  Cf;?^/^/ unto  his  room. 
 
 And  fo  the  term.s  of  Life  hath  limited, 
 None  m.ay  depart,  but  by  their  Captain  iicenfcd, 
 
 38  Nefarious  wretch  1  who  with  fiagicious hand, 
 Dares  violat  the  Tcnifle  God  djd  raife, 
 A  Mirrcurhtrt  of  all  his  Works  to  fland, 
 His  wifdom  to  commend,  ^nd^oodnefs  praife : 
 
 He  that  appoints  the  great  worlds  nights  and  days,^ 
 Prom  her  Creadon  to  laft  Rezclttcion 
 Detcrmins  ail  ihyfmall  "^prlds  works  and  waycs. 
 Who  wilfully  then  haHs  his  diffolucion, 
 
 Seeks  to  gain- fay  his  Makers  conftanc  refolucion, 
 
 3P  The  longer  Ufc^  I  know  the  greater  fi» ; 
 
 The  greater 7?«,  the  greater  punilhmetJt^ 
 
 Yet  if  thou  Souldier-like  art  entred  in. 
 
 Thou  mufl  go  on  with  flouteft  hardimcnt. 
 And  not  depart  without  commandemenc. 
 
 Oh  lie  not  down,  and  thee  to  reft  betake, 
 
 Enfuing  ills  o^ living  to  prevent. 
 
 Though  hfc  hath  nought  that  can  her  loved  makc,^ 
 Yet  gives  it  no  jufi:  Caufe  that  thou  lliouid-ft  it  forfake, 
 
 '^       /-.        ..    .,  An* 
 
40  And  yet,  OJinfull  man  1  do  not  defire, 
 To  draw  thy  daycs  forth  to  the  lafl:  degree, 
 Untill  the  meafure  of  ihy  finfull  hir^. 
 
 Be  heaped  up  wieh  all  impiety, 
 
 Againft  the  day  of  Wrath  and  lelouile, 
 Whilft  thou  this  finfull  Body  beard  about, 
 Laden  with  Sins,  and  foul  Iniquity, 
 Their  numbers  more  and  moreincreafe  no  doubt, 
 MoA  happy  he  whom  Death  the  fooncft  helpeth  out. 
 
 41  Dcfpairnotyet,frail,  filly,  flcfhlywighc. 
 Nor  jet  Biftrnfi  amate  thy  manful!  heart, 
 Ner  Sutans  malicing  difmay  thy  fprite. 
 Thou  in  thy  Saviours  merits  haft  a  part, 
 
 Oh  why  Ihouldil:  thou  defpair,  that  certain  art 
 Of  Chrift  thy  Saviour  ?  Lo  !  in  him  is  grace ^ 
 From  thee  for  ever  to  remove  Hcls  fmart. 
 And  that  accurft  iMnd-vpriting  to  deface, 
 L^ofins  can  befo  great,  but  Mcrcj  may  have  place. 
 
 12  How  then  fliould  any  wretched  wight  be  won. 
 To  fpoil  the  Caftle  of  his  life  Siadjfate  ! 
 
 Is't  not  Gods  doing  v^hatfoever^'s  don 
 In  heav'n  and  earth  ?  Did  he  not  ali  create 
 
 To  live  and  die  by  his  eternaliF^r^  ? 
 Who  dares  then  ftrive  with  ftrong  Neceflity, 
 That  conftant  holds  the  world  in  changing  ftatc  ■ 
 All  oughe  be  wiilin^  here  to  live  or  die  : 
 Life,  Death,  ordained  are  by  heav'nly  Deftinj. 
 
 13  Then  witnefs  Death,  that  willing  I  lay  down 
 My  Body,  fure  to  put  it  on  again ; 
 
 My  flefhly  Baggage,  for  a  heavenly  Crown, 
 My  earthly  Bondag,  in  the  heav'ns  to  raign, 
 
 I  leave  this  Tent  of  brittle  clay,  to  gain 
 Jn  keav'n  a  manfmn  holy,  fpirituall. 
 Lo,  my  corrupcion  here  1  down  have  Iain, 
 For*W*rr//pr;o»,  pure.  Angelical],     t 
 ^nd  for  a  heav'nly  parlour,  changed  my  earthly  Hall. 
 
 H  h  2  lorf, 
 
of  Death, 
 
 44  Lord,  this  I  cray^,  Dircft  me  in  the  way, 
 So  fnali  1  certainly  attain  my  end  : 
 
 If  well  my  Part  on  mortal  StA^e  I  play, 
 ^  Saints,  Angels,  my  beholders,  (hall  commend 
 My  A^ion  :  God  and  Chrifi  fhall  be  my  friend  : 
 And  when  my  Fle/h  to  Natnres  Tjring'rvomy 
 From  whence  it  came,  fhall  quietly  delccnd  : 
 Jt  there  fnall  reft  untiil  the  Daj  of  Poom, 
 And  thep  in  heavenly  Quire  e.  Smging-m an  become. 
 
 45  Sweet  Death,  then  friendly  let  me  thee  imbrace ; 
 F5e  truly  lives,  that  living  learns  to  dy  , . 
 
 Now  fmilmg,  like  a  friend,  1  fee  thy  face, 
 Not  terrible,  like  to  an  enemy  : 
 
 But  I  with  Prayer  end  ray  melody  : 
 Lord  grant,  when  Dcttth  my  P a fmg- he II  <ioih.  xing. 
 My  Soul  may  bear  the  heav'niy  HArw»ny 
 Of  Saints  and  Angelsy  which  moft  joyful!  fing 
 fwcet  HaikiuJAhs  to  their  Saviohy,  GedAndKi^g'- 
 
 F  I  N  I  S^ 
 
 TO  thee,  poor  Bird,  In  Cage  imprifoned. 
 How  like  am  I,  by  Jgn  vifited  ? 
 J  cannot  ufc  my  Horfe,  nor  thou  thy  PVing, 
 And  therefore  both  fit  ftill  within, and  fing. 
 My  yl/^/f  h a t h  wi c h  my  T^ody  iSy m p a t by  ;" 
 If  Wf//,  1  learn  to  live  ;  if  y/ci,  to  dj. 
 
 of  djijig  joufsg. 
 
 TV^is  n^ortd^  B^nqmt  is,  we  Convives  all. 
 Where  moft,  bv  Drinl^,  to  Jin  and  furfet  fall. 
 Who  djeth  joHfigy  is  like  him  that  doth  rife 
 From  JianqffeT^irt the rrine  his IFit furprizCo 
 
A  Funeral!  E  LE  G  Y 
 
 Confecrated  to  the  Memory  of  his  eVer  honored  Lord 
 I  O  H  N     K  I  N  G 
 
 Ute  Lord  Bifhof  of  London. 
 
 LEt  others  call  their  Mufe  to  help  them  mourn. 
 And  Books  o'i  Tragi qne  Scenes  and  Stories  turn  ' 
 My  Heart  abundant  matter  fhall  indite, 
 if  but  the  hilfe  I  (of  my  forrow)  write. 
 Were  it  a  private  lofle  of  mine  alone, 
 I  could  it  fmother  with  a  private  grone : 
 But  ah  I  I  ring  mj  Tatkers  Fathers  knell ^ 
 The  Charet  and  Horfemen  cf  Ifrael. 
 
 Happy  Elifia^  when  the  fiery  Horfe 
 And  Charets  thee  did  from  thy  Mafter  force  ! 
 Whilfl  he  in  whirlwind  up  to  Heaven  afcends^ 
 His  Spirit  doubled  down  on  thee  defcends : 
 But  ah  !  I  have  no  Spirit  but  to  mourn. 
 And  wadi  with  teares  this  facred  Fathers  P'm^ 
 His  UVIantU  is  not  left  me  so  divide 
 Kline  eyes  from  teares,  as  lordans  floods  were  dri'd. 
 
 Yet  had  I  but  his  Spirit  here  to  tell 
 How  floutly  he  oppofed  lez^ahel^ 
 And  all  her  "Baalling  fuperfticlous  crew 
 Of  Prophets,  and  their  Idols  overthrew. 
 How  firmly  he  in  his  Religton  flood. 
 Ready  till  death  to  feal  it  with  his  blood. 
 Without  leaft^^/W  thought  to  change  that  Truth^ 
 Which  was  in  him  firra  rooted  from  his  youth  ; 
 I  then  might  juftly  hope  my  feeble  Verfe 
 Had  done  full  right  unto  thy  wronged  Hcrfe, 
 For  1  (hould  inuzzel  thofe  that  wrong  thy  Fame, 
 And  dy  them,  like  their  whoar,  fcarlet  in  fhamfj 
 
 Hh  3  -^    vi  Sho^!d 
 
8  r:A  Funer^U  Elegy. 
 
 Snould  force  into  their  face  that  modcft  blood. 
 That  I'ft  them,  ere  fince  they  left  Truth  and  Good. 
 Yet  why  ftiould  1  think  much  that  Calumny 
 labours  to  cloud  thy  Names  bright  Memory, 
 ^ince  that;///  One  {thy  Saviour)  after  Death, 
 Could  not  avoyd  Slanders  envenom'd  breath 
 And  if  thy  Lord  and  Maflers  fate  were  fuch. 
 Let  nor  thy  APaes  grecve  to  bear  as  much. 
 ,  A)h  facred  Spirit,  enclofd  in  frayleft  mold 
 ^  Of  brittle  Clay  1  when  I  did  thee  behold 
 Praying  EliM-^kc ;  chou  couldfi:  conftrayn 
 The  Heav'ns  to  water  all  the  Earth  with  rayn. 
 
 And  when  chy  zealous  toung  toucht  with  the  flame 
 Which  Serafhin  had  from  the  Altar  tane, 
 Thou  like  to  PahI  or  TtUr  didfl  divine, 
 T  hree  thoufand  Soules  converting  at  a  time. 
 
 When  thou  didft  {\i  on  lujticei'urtd  Throne^ 
 Thy  Prndence  (Viin'd  like  that  oiSslvmon^ 
 And  Sdmiitl'\\\!it  fo  equall  didif  divide. 
 Thou  often  gav'ft  content  to  either  fide.  - 
 
 Like  ^rir/?c/7d'i  thy  School  Difputacions, 
 Thy  Speeches  TulUes  eloquent  Oracions, 
 Thy  LeBures  all  Idens  moft  divine. 
 Where  Arts  like  Stars  in  Firmament  do  fliinf  o 
 
 Did  1  behold  thee  in  thy  Familj, 
 Thy  Houfe  a  Temfle  of  the  "^i^city. 
 Thou  "Dazid-likt  didft  to  th'Almighty  fwear^, 
 No  wicked  riotous  perfon  (hould  come  there  * 
 You  worthy  Tnle  of  Levi,  when  you  want 
 And  finde  your  (liorn  ALlonvance  all  to  fcant. 
 His  "Bmntj  which  refrelht  you  often,  blifs. 
 And  gave  you  Livings  free  as  they  were  his. 
 You  Poore  lament  whom  he  fo  often  fed. 
 Not  with  his  Do(ftrin  oncly,but  his  Bread. 
 And  Strangers  when  you  want,  his  lofs  lament,  • 
 
 Who  unto  you  futh  large  ^/MV/«^f  fenc. 
 
 One 
 
jrTmcral  Jbiegy 
 One  and  the  fame  Rule  in  things  Tempor^u,. 
 He  did  obfcrve  as  in  Spiritually 
 Who  fo  on  Earth  doth  plentifully  fo'^^ 
 May  well  expcd  a  like  mcreafe  to  w^oiy- 
 
 Mofl  happy  Man ,  iff  Vcrtu^  Hwour,  Right,  , 
 Or  any  worldly  Blifs  make  happy  wight. 
 Home, and  abroad  honoured,  belov'd  and  feai'd. 
 Him  Grace  and  Lejirmng  unto  all  cndear'd. 
 
 But  oh  1  what  Mortal!  ftands  lb  fjjre  and  i^fl, 
 That  here  may  be  caird  happy,  till  his  lafi  I 
 To  whom  the  People  erfl  Hofanns  cride. 
 When  he  in  triumph  doth  through  Sion  ride. 
 Ere  many  dayes  was  on  the  Crofs  fo  fhakeia. 
 As  if  he  fear'd  himfelf  of  6'^^  forfaken  : 
 So  when  this  Saint  ( like  T^aul  th^aged)  fung 
 To  build  up  x^jWruines  with  hisToung, 
 The  ravifh'd  Hearers  with  thy  meffage  Arook 
 Sate  as  they  had  no  pow'rs,  but  Ear  and  Look, 
 Both  which  did  yceldthy  Worth  fuch  loud  applaufe. 
 As  if  an  Angels  Trump  had  lent  thee  voyce, 
 I  think  their  ftrid  attencion  did  fore-fee, 
 They  never  m#re  fhould  heare  fo  much  fso iiv  thee. 
 A  Swan'\\)LQ  Dittie,  for  it  was  his  lafl, 
 For  ere  the  Sun  had  round  kis  circuit  pad. 
 He  that  for  *S'>*of?/ building  updid  pray, 
 Did  in  his  own  frail  Temple  feel  decay  I 
 
 My  Soul  cv'n  trembles  but  thy  groanes  to  heare :' 
 Alas  I  how  couldft  thou  them  mthPacienceh^UQ  i 
 i  Afflidions,  which  would  break  a  brafcn  Wall, 
 j  And  hardcft  Mtlfim  grin'd  to  pouder  finall  1 
 I  But  Hcc  in  Hcav'n  that  heard  thee  groan  and  weep, 
 I  And  all  thy  tcares  did  in  his  Bottle  keep, 
 When  it  was  full,  doth  take  of  thee  compaflion. 
 And  freed  thee  from  thy  pains  and  bitter  pafsion. 
 
 Ev'n  on  that  Day  whereon  we  celcbrace 
 HilPaffion,  whom  thou  liv'dfl  to  imitate ; 
 
 loc 
 
4^0  ji  FuneyMll  Elegy 
 
 Lo,  God  doth  millions  oi  Angels  fend. 
 
 Thy  forrowcs  herewith  heav'nly  joycs  to  end. 
 
 Shall  we  bcwayl  thy  hatppy  commntacion  I 
 Now  chirtgd  from  Earth  to  Heav'nly  Habitacion  ! 
 Whereas  thy  joyes  the  Angels  far  furpaft. 
 Which  never  of  thy  Miferies  did  tafle, 
 For  there  thou  dofl  that  Pfalm  of  comfort  ring, 
 Which  none  but  Saints  abided  here  can  fing  ; 
 Thit  joy  which  never  had  in  Hcav'n  bin  known. 
 But  by  thofe  SaintsX^^i  under  CrofTes  groan  : 
 That  Joy  which  feels  God^  comfort  us  again 
 After  he  hath  us  plaug'd  on  Earth  with  pain ; 
 And  for  a  few  years  of  adverfity. 
 Rewards  in  Heav'n  with  Joyes  eternity ; 
 Which  gives  for  Sorrow,  Joy  *  for  Labour,  Reft; 
 A  Hav -n  to  us  wh©m  Shipwrack  crft  diftreU ; 
 From  I)anger,  Safety ;  Light  unto  the  eye, 
 Longblindc  in  dungeons  Qbfcuriry. 
 1^^^  after  Death  doth  make  our  lives  more  fweer. 
 Who  here  Chrifts  plentiful  afflictions  meet. 
 Shall  have  in  him  a  plenteous  Confolacion : 
 Then  let  us  all,  that  wait  for  hke  falvacion^K** 
 In  Body  like  this  Saint  the  dying  bear 
 Of  *s  dying  Zor^;  arid  let  him  never  fiar 
 But  his  Lords  life  (hall  be  made  manjifcft 
 In  Him,  when  He  our  Labour  tul'nf  to  Reft™ 
 But  more :  my  Mufe  is  as  unfit  to  write 
 As  are  my  forrows  ftupid  to  cndite  I 
 Only,  She  thus  the  publick  lofs  bemoans. 
 And  what  She  wants  in  words,  fupplycs  with  groans; 
 
 FINIS. 
 
SVSANNA? 
 
 OR  THE 
 
 AR AIGNMENT 
 
 OF 
 
 The  two  unjuft  ELDERS. 
 
 Devt.  r^.  20. 
 
 That  vehich  if  jufl  and  right  jjjalt  thou  follow  ,   that 
 ■  -  thou  maifl  live  and  enjoj  the  Land  mhich  the 
 Lord  thy  Godgiveth  thee. 
 
 LONDON, 
 
 Printed  for  e^,  !^  i  <^  ^  4* 
 
The  Argument  5  or  Morale  of  the  whole 
 
 -    Hiftory. 
 
 t  Chafl  Suhnna.:^  here  interpret;  ^ij^l-^h 
 ^Or  Juftice-y  clear ^  as  pure  celejUal  Light-, 
 ffhom  covetous  fdje  EldnSy  rm[t  unju^^ 
 Seek  to  corrupt^  tofatisfie  their  Lujl. 
 
 Divine  ^  Aftrea  ,  of  immortal  Seed^ 
 Abhsminutei  fuch  foul  and  wicked  deed : 
 wherefore  they  to  the  people  her  difgrace  ^ 
 Andfet  up  wrong  and^Mihing  in  her  place. 
 The  people^  alwa)  s  prone  to  imitate 
 Their  vice^notvirtueSythat  do  [way  the  State  ^ 
 Joyn  with  the  Judges  all  to  heat  down  Right^ 
 And  take  i^^giftSy  and  doing  wrongs  delight-^ 
 Till  Jove,  awaked  with  thepitemi  cry 
 Of  thofe  that  grone  under  Iniquity  y 
 The  Gods  his  Peers  to  Parliament  doth  call^ 
 And  to  Olympus  Court  them JumTmns  ally' 
 njgere  they  decree  a  Daniel  to  fend , 
 'to  judge  the  worfl ,  that  allthereji  may  mend: 
 Thence  doth  Aftrea  clear  Jike  Suian^fhine, 
 And  judges  me^fure  by  her  eciualline^ 
 
 lufticc^ 
 
 The 
 
The  Firft  Book 
 
 OF 
 
 S  V  S  A  N  N  A? 
 
 Gods ^ocd'iefs Z;^ Judahs  Captivity*^ 
 Joachim'i  worth ;  what  Elders  onght  to  he^ 
 Ag'od  JV.fe  hj  Sufanna  i^  defer  id. 
 The  great  eft  blifs  th.it  can  a,  man  betide* 
 The  Eiders  each  to  other  do  djfcover 
 Thetr  Lptfts,  and  Plot  their  ■K't/hes  to  recoverl 
 
 Sing  the  honour  of  that  noble  Dame^ 
 Who  for  true  virtues  fake  defpifed  (hae* 
 And  rather  chofe  to  die  with  infamy. 
 Than  violate  her  facred  Cbaftity  : 
 Forfhehim  made  her  confidence  and 
 
 That  made  her  righteoufnefs  as  clear  as  day.     (ftay, 
 
 Lncrece  be  mute,  if  chafl:,  why  (houldft  thou  die? 
 
 Ifnot,  why  Hiould  we  praife  thy  chaOity  ? 
 
 I  fing  of  ludgcs  bafe,  not  more  unjufi: 
 
 [n  ludgemen:,  than  obfcene  in  filthy  lufl; 
 
 1  (log  of  luftice,  ludgemcnt.  Equity, 
 
 And  knowledge  of  difccrninp  Verity. 
 
 il3  Ob 
 
S  l^he  (ir(l  Bock  ofSufanna. 
 
 O  bleffed  Sf^irit^  who  didft  the  fpirit  difpofe 
 Of  youth,  the  Elders  malice  to  difdofe, 
 Dired  my  yl/«y?,  In juflicc  to  dilcover , 
 That  hating  vice  ,  I  may  be  virtues  lover : 
 And  teach  me  fi ng  Sfifafitja's  facrcd  ftory. 
 To  all  chad  ears  delight ,  and  to  thy  glory. 
 Whilfl  Ca^iaans  Land  lay  feaventy  years  untild  , 
 
 a  Chr.  And  S;tbbaths  all  prophan'd  had  nigh  fulfilled , 
 
 3^.  21.  The  Ahamites  thu  under  bondage  groan. 
 Sate  weeping  by  the  flreanris  o^ Bahjlon : 
 Their  Harfsxx^on  the  Willow  trees  then  hung, 
 On  which  they  lately  Siom  fongs  had  ibng; 
 And  though  their  voices  had  forgot  to  fing. 
 And  fingers  touch  of  fweetcfl:  warbling  firing, 
 lekovah  could  not ,  for  his  Abrams  fake. 
 Forget  the  promife  he  to  him  did  make; 
 But  gave  them  favour  in  the  heathens  fight, 
 And  dwellings  both  for  profit  and  delight; ' 
 A^id,  I'eftthey  fhould  ihefe  benefits defpifc. 
 They  had,  within  themfelves,  the  exercife 
 Of  their  own  Laws;  and  Elders  every  year, 
 The  people  chofe  the  Government  to  bear^ 
 Who  might  in  uprightnefs,  and  skill  in  Law, 
 Prored  the  Good,  and  keep  the  Bad  in  awe. 
 
 Amongll:  the  reft,  that  in  that  region 
 Had  large  pofTefiion?,  in  BahjUn 
 Joachim  had  a  houfc  mod  rich  and  fair  , 
 Moll  plcafant,  friiitfall,  hcalthfull  eke  for  ayrj 
 But  was  renownM,  and  famous,  moft  of  all. 
 For  one  fair.  Urge,  and  open  goodly  HaH^ 
 Whither  all  lerptjhinit^^  wontrelbrt. 
 For  ludicc:  tliere  the  E/dcrs  kept  their  Court , 
 
 Ex.  i%,Eldersvih\ch  ought  by  Icthros  Counfel  wife, 
 
 "•       Be  men  oFcoura<:e,  hatinf^  covetiff; 
 
 Fearing  the  Lord-,  in  dealing  juli,  upright; 
 And  able  to  diicern  the  wrong  from  right; 
 
 liu 
 
Tf^efirft  Book  o/Sufanna.  I 
 
 But  thefe  were  Ahtients  in  iniqaity,  J 
 
 Malice,  In  juftlce  and  Adultery. 
 
 Both  like  in  Ignorance,  and  bafe  condition; 
 
 Both  rais'd  by  bribing,  favour,  and  arabitionj 
 
 Not  ufing  Law  hard  caufes  to  decide. 
 
 For  they  all  matters  by  one  ballance  tri'd^ 
 
 Whofe  gift  weighs  hcaviefl:,vidory  obtains,       JI" 
 
 This  raickle  profit  brings  with  little  painsj 
 
 Deferring  ftrifes  final  determination. 
 
 Not  thereby  to  take  better  information,* 
 
 But  for  to  groap  whofe  purfe  did  heavieft  weigh, 
 
 And  unto  him  they  always  give  the  day- 
 
 Thefe  judged  then  the  congregation 
 Of  captive  /eVs^s  that  were  in  Babylon ;    . 
 And  for  loechim  was  a  noble  man. 
 To  him  the  people  with  the  Eldtrs  came, 
 Where  they  till  noon  the  caufes  overcall. 
 
 As  now  oiir  lodges  in  Wcftminflsr  hall. 
 
 This  Nobleman  was  not  lb  honorable  ^  5°°^ 
 
 For  Anccftry,  or  ought  that's  heritable,  ^^ /?? 
 
 As  for  his  Virtues,  luftice.  Piety,  vQcsrtfi/ 
 
 Humblenefs,  Meeknefs,  and  Integrity; 
 
 Thefe  did  his  mind  and  anions  more  adorn^ 
 
 Than  wealth,  ambition,  favour,  arms  with  fcorn  ; 
 
 Thefe  made  him  of  the  higheft  reputation , 
 
 And  fought  unto  of  all  the  lereifh  Nation; 
 
 Who  though  he  Patron  was  and    ?dvocate^  { 
 
 And  wondrous  knowledge  had,  to  rule  the  State',       ^^' 
 
 By  his  great  skill  in  Layps  Indicia/^ 
 
 T  he  Moral  and  the  Ceremonial ; 
 
 Yet  feeing  the  corruptions  of  the  Time^ 
 
 And  Vollj  into  Seat  o^  Infiice  clime  ; 
 
 And  that  the  moft  unjufl:  and  ignorant. 
 
 By  bribing,  friends ,  or  boldnefs  got  the  Grant 
 
 OfhighcftOffw,  He  free  from  charge 
 
 Ofpublick(9;iTfr,chofc  to  live  at  large; 
 
 114  Bui 
 
^  Tfjejirfl  Book  ofS  ufanna . 
 
 Bui  for  becauFe,  man  born  he  undcrflood , 
 Not  for  himfelf  but  for  his  countries  good, 
 He  cook  more  pains  than  any  Magiftrate, 
 For  wronged  friends,  and  good  of  publick  flatc. 
 So  thai  his  was  the  Hcufe  oi' lufiice  hight; 
 His  mouth  an  Oracle  of  La^  arid  Right; 
 The  Widows,Poors,  and  Orphans  fure  defcndour^ 
 Th'  hmocen's  aid,  and  terroiir  of  th*offendour. 
 He  ware  a  L.%rvyers  Gown  to  keep  him  warm. 
 But  fold  no  Breath  to  do  a  poor  man  W;r. 
 He  that  defcribc  all  heavenly  Graces  can, 
 May  tell  the  virtues  of  this  noble  man; 
 Which  he  not  only  lcarn*d  by  contemplation. 
 But  aded  to  th^  good  of  all  his  nation. 
 A  good     But  above  wcalth,and  all  this  man  poffeft, 
 dJff  i     ^^  ^^^^  ^  taithfull,  honeft  ivife  was  bleft, 
 bcdTr.  ^^  whom  her  husbands  heart  might  fafely  trufi-, 
 31.10,    In  wealth  or  want  contented,  true  and  juft, 
 ii,&c.    Who  did  him^W  not  eviH^W  her  days, 
 
 Induflrious  with  her  mind  and  hands  always; 
 
 Like  Merchants  (hip  that  food  from  far  doth  bring, 
 
 Early  and  late  her  houftiold  ordering  ;     4^^*^ 
 
 Her  working  hand  ftill  open  for  to  feed 
 
 The  hungry,  and  to  give  to  them  that  need ; 
 
 And  in  the  Summer  tor  the  Winter  tide. 
 
 She  cloathing  for  her  houfhould  doth  provide. 
 
 This  made  her  Husband  fo  much  fet  by,  and 
 
 To  lit  amongll  the  Rulers  of  the  Land : 
 
 Her  mouth  was  (hut,  and  covered  her  face, 
 
 In  one  fate  modefty,  in  th^other  grace;  ] 
 
 In  one  did  anj^click  f^Vettbemty  fhine. 
 
 From  th'ocher  wifdom  floWS;  and  grace  divine. 
 
 To  many  Daughters, Cr^CiT/ rare  befall, 
 
 But  chad   nfanna  went  beyond  them  all. 
 
 Amongfl  the  friuts  of  her  Indui'trioufne's, 
 VVho  never  cat  her  bread  in  Idlenefs, 
 
 She 
 
Thefirji  Book  of  Siifanna . 
 
 She  plants  an  Orchard  fruitful  I,  rich  and  fair^ 
 
 Whitticr  fhe  with  her  L^r^  doth  oft  repair, 
 
 Therafelves  a  while  frpm  worldly  cares  to  free. 
 
 And  on  their  handy  w;<?ri(;,/C?<?^:fble(rings  fee;  (Bght^ 
 
 There  might  they  pleafe,  Imell,  couch,  car ,  ttH  luad 
 
 With flowers,fruits,  and muficks  fwcct  ddigiai^ 
 
 For  through  the  lame  a  pure  ftrearn  murmurcil. 
 
 To  whicif  the  Birds  (weet  Trebles  warbelcd. 
 
 The  winds  amongll:  ehe  trees  a  Bafc  did  ibuod,  | 
 
 And  flowers  a}l  enamelled  the  ground: .    , 
 
 But  lo  the  Winds,  Birds,  Streams  and  all  wocc  inule. 
 
 At  nimble  touch  of.V^/'^^^/ trembling  Lute, 
 
 Broo^  f^aid.  Birds  ceaft,  and  Air  calm  beca?^^ 
 
 To  hear  the  Heav'nly  roufick  ofthisDamc; 
 
 But  moft  it  doth  her  husbands  heart  rejoyce, 
 
 To  hear  her  Lute  outwarbled  by  her  voice. 
 
 Which  feem'd  a  quire  oi  Angds^  which  did  pmife 
 
 The  King  of  Heav'n  in  Davids  holy  lays. 
 
 So  have  I  often  heard  in  forreft  fair. 
 
 When  fpring  begins  with  calm  and  gentle  aitj 
 
 Grave  Citizens,  which  thither  do  rei'ort, 
 
 Oft  fing  by  turns ,  oft  joyn  in  one  confort; 
 
 Till  Philomel  to  welcome  Phnebes  light. 
 
 Having  their  mufick  heard  with  due  delight,' 
 
 Sends  from  her  breflfuch  Lute-like  warbding. 
 
 The  other  Birds  are  all  alliam'd  to  fing; 
 
 And  liftning,  in  one  ffrain  mod:  iweet  and  clear. 
 
 Do  all  their  changes  in  one  Dircie  hear. 
 
 And  To  have  often  feen  the  (hepheard  fwaim. 
 Wooing  the  (hepheardefTes  on  the  plains. 
 Challenge  their  mates  by  Tingle  pipe  and  voice,   ' 
 And  joyn  in  confort  with  harmonious  noife, 
 That  all  the  ihepheards  dance  to  hear  them  fing. 
 And  forrefts  all  with  joy  aloud  do  ring, 
 Till  Phillii  with  one  ftroke  of  warbling  Lute, 
 The  (hepheards  pipes,  and  voices  all  makes  mutej 
 
 Yea 
 
hcd 
 
 jji  Tf.^efirfl  Book  of  Sufanna. 
 
 Yea  CcMIm  Clont  doth  break  his  Pipe  for  fliame, 
 To  hear  the  heav'niy  ditties  of  his  Darae* 
 
 Thus  oft  (he  folaced  for  recreattoo, 
 Buc  raoft  alone ,  for  holy  meditation. 
 She  in  her  Orchard  walkcth  every  day, 
 To  read  the  Scriptures,  meditate  and  pray. 
 Where  by  fublimc  pure  heavenly  contemplation, 
 With  God  and  Angels  (he  hath  converfation. 
 And  by  true  faith,  and  her  fpiritual  eye. 
 As  prefenr,  doth  the  day  oiChrift  defcry, 
 Luft  This'Dilnond  of  in  valuable  price, 
 
 ^efori-    Was  ibon  difcern'd  by  Elders  luflfull  eys, 
 
 Luft  that  fierce^ire,  whith  firft  in  eys  conceives, 
 
 And  raging  enters  in,  and  never  leaves 
 
 Till  all  the  body  It  hath  {tt  on  fire. 
 
 And  feard  the  foul  with  wicked  ftrange  defire; 
 
 Like  lightning  fent  from  Heav'n  for  curfed  fin. 
 
 Which  firft  on  tops  of  Towers  doth  begin. 
 
 Then  fires  the  roof,  thence  falls  down  to  the  Hall, 
 
 And  is  not  quench'd  till  it  confumeth  all. 
 
 b  weet  kindly  heat.when  youth  kept  in  loves  bounds, 
 
 A  wife  not  womankind  for  fcope  propounds; 
 
 But  even  a  fparkofHcll,  when  it  doth  rage 
 
 Amongft  the  Antient,  Politick  and  Sage. 
 
 *  Gray  heads  incontinent  when  they  were  young, 
 
 *  As  they  grow  weak  in  limbs,  in  luft  grow  ftrong. 
 This  fire  lo  fierce  doth  in  the  Elders- hwxn^ 
 Ie  all  their  mirth  to  heavinefs  doth  turn; 
 Their  caft-down  eys  dare  not  behold  the  fight 
 Oi Heav'n ,  nor  think  on  God  that  judgeth  right. 
 Deep  was  indeed  Stlf-ff^nilty  confcience  wound, 
 But  they  moreviolent  L'ffls  fury  found; 
 Each  his  own  fire  buc  not  his  Fellows  knew. 
 Nor  durft  one  it  unco  another  fhcw; 
 Afham'd  their  filthy  luft  to  her  to  tell. 
 Yet  bothjto  qu.T,ch  their  flameS;Would  burn  in  Hell; 
 
 Both 
 
r 
 
 rhefirfl  BookofSuhnnsL.  r  f 
 
 Both  wickedly  do  projeft  day  and  night. 
 That  at  the  leaft  they  may  enjoy  her  fight; 
 To  have  their  will  on  her  both  were  full  fain, 
 But  faw  no  means  their  longings  to  obtain. 
 
 As  Satai  when  he  would  us  work  defpite, 
 Transforms  him  to  an  Angelo^th^  Light ^ 
 Left  if  we  fhould  behold  his  proper  Shafts 
 Torearmdjfore^arn*d^  we  might  his  malice  fcapC: 
 So  thefe  two  Carles  in  Sufnm  prefence  fate. 
 As  if  they  all  on  luftice  meditate^ 
 And  when  they  chancM  with  loachim  to  dine. 
 Their  Table-talk  was  all  of  things  divine, 
 Of  a  found  Confcicnce,  and  equity. 
 Wives  Loy.^Aty^  and  Virgins  Chaftitj; 
 Thus  hoping  by  their  quaint  Hypcrifie^ 
 To  make  a  way  to  foul  Adnlterie. 
 
 One  day  from  Judgement  feat  when  both  did  rife. 
 And  either  turned  home  as  was  their  guife, 
 Both  flreight  returned,  and  together  met. 
 With  hope  the  fight  of  her  alone  to  get: 
 Where  either  of  the  other  doth  enquire. 
 The  caufe  of  their  fo  fudden  back  retire* 
 
 Brother  ,  faid  then,  the  Senior  in  degree. 
 What  is  the  caufe  I  thee  fo  heavy  fee  ? 
 Doth  any  Ahab  hold  from  thee  fome  ground, 
 That  ddth  upon  thy  houfe ,  or  Vineyard  bound  , 
 Which  thou  defir*ft  for  profit  or  delight? 
 Tell  me,  and  he  fball  know  a  ludgcs  might. 
 Or  doth  there  any  M^rdschee  deny 
 To  do  obeifance  to  thy  Seigyienrj  > 
 Haft  thou  received  wrong  of  any  wight , 
 And  would*ft  again  w\thfv?r:et  revenge  requite  ? 
 Or  tell  me,  feme  fair  Dame  dofi:  thou  not  love  } 
 Whofe  Cbafl-tcy  thou  art  afraid  to  prove  ; 
 What  ever  be  thy  grief^now  tell  it  me. 
 And  ufe  my  power  as  I  have  uftd  thee. 
 
 V 
 
Thffirft  Meek  o/Sufanna.^ 
 
 What  do  we  both  like  Kings  oVe  ludah  reign  ? 
 And  (hall  ought  crofs  our  pleafure  or  our  gain  ? 
 No  no,  wec*l  break  or  make  them  all  obey; 
 We  Rule  not  if  our  Subjeds  us  gainfay. 
 
 My  Lord^  repli'd  the  Puny  Itidge  again, 
 Tis  noc  Revenge,  Ambition,  Pleafure,  Gain, 
 That  fo  afflid  my  body  and  my  mind, 
 *ri$  love  ot  fair —  but  (hapie  there  ftopt  his  wind, 
 The  word  StifmnA  fain  he  would  have  faid, 
 But  was  ofman,  though  not  of  God  afraid. 
 As  two  old  Theevcs,  that  have  companions  been 
 Oft  times  \r\.  Muxther^  Thep^  and  fowler  Si»^ 
 Having  a  Booty  in  one  place  efpi*d. 
 But  neither  others  mind  thereto  defcri'd  , 
 At  divers  Windows  flipping  in  by  night. 
 Into  one  Hall^  which  doth  both  much  affright, 
 (^Qne  for  the  owner  firil  the  other  taking. 
 And  each  a  true- man  for  a  /  /?<fr/raiflaking,) 
 Till  by  fomc  fecret  markseach  doth  cfpy 
 His  fellow  theef,  there  met  unwillingly. 
 Wherewith  bothgladj  hope  esflierto  obtaiin 
 Their  purpofe,  and  be  Sharers  in  the  gain  ; 
 Even  fo  thefe  Eiders^  who  by  might  and  fraud. 
 Had  often  joyn'd  in  lud  gemenC  to  defraud 
 The  Fatherleis,  and  Widows  of  their  right. 
 And  to  opprefTe  the  weaker  by  their  might; 
 Firft  Fear'd  one  by  the  other  to  be  fpi*d, 
 But  a!tcr  they  had  both  their  lufts  defcri'd, 
 loy  in  their  hap, and  eaflier  hope  to  get, 
 And  (liare  the  Booty,  for  which  there  they  met. 
 
 Thricc-noble  Mate,  the  elder  Judge  repli'd, 
 1  fee  one  fire  in  both  our  hearts  doth  bide. 
 Which  fmother'd,  fmckino  mward/y  will  burn. 
 But  blown  and  (lir'd,  to  pureit  flames  will  turn; 
 1,  by  thy  meeting  here,  do  furcly  guefs, 
 It  is  one  Dame  doth  both  our  hearts  poflefs; 
 
 For 
 
Thefir^  'Book  of  Suianna. 
 
 For  I  have  oft  beheld  thee  fix  thine  eyc^ 
 Upon  her  beauty  as  Ihe  paffcdt  by. 
 And  therewith  heard  thee  inly  figh  and  groan^ 
 As  thou  didft  wiih  to  be  with  her  alone- 
 But,  fince  fweet  Cupid  fmites  both  with  one  Dart^ 
 Let  us  not  herein  one  another  thwart; 
 If  difcord  our  defires  fhall  divide, 
 Our  powr  and  empire  cannot  long  abide; 
 Let  name  of  Rival  vihkh  breeds  mortal  hate. 
 In  youth,  in  age,  our  loves  conglutinate. 
 Her  beauty  that  than  Sun  doth  clearer  fliinc^ 
 Hath  heat  enough  to  warm  mine  heart  and  thine. 
 And  both  our  longings  fully  fatisfie; 
 Let's  fliare  in  loves,  as  in  commodity. 
 As  ftrongeft  Caflle  which  doth  fortifie 
 It  felf  t'endure  the  Siege  of  enemy , 
 By  forceunited's  fooner  overcome. 
 Than  if  they  (hould  affaul t  it  one  by  one; 
 So  ftiall  we  find  the  Fortrefs  of  this  Dame, 
 By  both,  than  one,  more  eafy  to  be  tane; 
 Yea  if  through  waiwardnefs  it  (hall  ftand  out. 
 By  force  or  policy  wee*l  bring*t  about. 
 Either  with  peace  our  pleafures  to  enjoy, 
 Or  mine  it  and  utterly  deftroy. 
 Dear  Brother^  I  mine  heart  muft  tell  thee  plain, 
 My  Stomack  cannot  brook  fo  foul  a  Swain 
 As  Joachim^  whom  the  bafe  multitude 
 Honour  as  Ki»^,  fhould  thus  unto  be  fu'd 
 Of  all,  to  be  their  Patron^  Advocate, 
 And  fway  our  power  in  ruling  of  the  otaie-^ 
 Alleging  La^  and  Cufiome  to  maintain 
 Things  that  fo  crofs  ourpleafure  and  our  gain; 
 That  he  I  fay  (hould  be  the  only  wight. 
 That  feels  the  Beams  of  this  clear  Suns  fweet  light- 
 That  in  his  Arms  he  {hould  enjoy  alone 
 S^fanna^  a  fit  Bride  for  Solomon* 
 
 Let 
 
Let  us  bethink's  of  fome  convenient  tide,'^ 
 Our  felves  in  fome  dofe  fhady  place  to  hide- 
 And  take  her  in  her  Orchard  all  alone. 
 For  there  (he  walketh  every  afternoon- 
 There  when  we  fee  our  opportunity, 
 Keep  thou  the  door,  I'l  keep  Her  company. 
 And  when  I  fatisfiM  have  my  defirc. 
 As  I  did  mine,  thou  raayft  affwage  thy  fire.' 
 Thus  wickedly  one  with  another  reafon. 
 Deferring  all  to  more  convenientfeafon. 
 
 ^Cs 
 
 BKI         I     II       » 
 
 The  End  of  the  Firft  Book. 
 
 ^        \\.       \i        II         il"    "  i"i"        \T       I* 
 
 the 
 
1^ 
 
 The  Second  Book  of 
 
 Sufans  devotionsy  work/^  and  Huswiferf^ 
 loac  biros  lufiice^  Hofiitality* 
 Eldtrs  her  wajhing  tempt ^  bat  (he  denies <^ 
 They  cfftrforce^  then  ontfor  aydfhe  cries; 
 Oft  her  transfer  they  fal fly  all  the  bUme^ 
 Vnto  her  eivn,  and  all  her  Servants  (bame. 
 
 NOw  fcarce  hts  flceds  had  Phabus  watered. 
 And  for  long  journey  ready  harnifed. 
 And  fair  ^ftror^utticr  of  the  day 
 Made  haft,  becaufc  Sol  went  his  longeft  way. 
 When  Chaft  Snfanna  from  fweet  fide  arofe 
 Of /tf4c^jwjand  putting  on  her  cloathes. 
 She  meditatefs  on  roab  of  righteoufnefs. 
 Wherewith  the  Bridegroom  his  belov'd  doth  drcfs. 
 His  merits  made  her  own  by  imputation, 
 In  fpiritual  birth,  not  fleftiiy  generation. 
 Long  coftly  dreffings  did  the  Dame  dec  line. 
 As  nurfe  ot  pride,  and  mif-expence  of  time. 
 Wherefore  her  night-gown  quick  about  her  caft. 
 With  band  and  hat  in  Teemly  order  piac  d, 
 She  fuddenly  up  all  her  maidens  calls. 
 And  kneeling  with  them  to  this  prayer  falls. 
 Oh  King  of  reft  1  that  doft  appoint  the  niohc 
 Forreft^  the  day  thavraanfhouldinthy  fight,' 
 
 r"   "     '" tj 
 
li  ^  Thejecom  Book  of  ^ulanna. 
 
 To  all  the  duties  of  his  calling  tend, 
 Having  ^hy  glory  ever  fof  Jiis  end; 
 Weii^fl  acknowledge  ourunworthinefs. 
 Relying  whole  on  Li  robs  unlpotcednefs, 
 Which  from  World«^  firil  founaacion  was  flain, 
 Th&c  he  mi  gilt  free  us  vf(im  ttern.i!  pain. 
 We, for  thi$  wondrous  grace,  thee  ever  praifd, 
 Tfcy  care  and  providence  for  u^  always. 
 Gram  we  of  this  nnay  ever  medicatC; 
 Oar  toncues  thy  praife  and  no"  le  ads  relate. 
 And  make  us  truly  do  all  thy  commands. 
 So  tbou  the  works  maifl-  profper  of  our  hands/ 
 As  nirabie  Lark  which  with  the  morn  doth  rife. 
 Mounts  from  her  couch,  firft  to  lalute  the  Skies, 
 And  all  the  way  to  Heaven  and  Earth  (he  rings, 
 Praife  to  the  Lord  of  Lords  and  Kirig  of  Kings : 
 But,  having  finiflied  her  due  devotion. 
 Falls  filent  down  with  fwift  and  nimble  motion. 
 And  diligent  takes  pains  for  dayly  food, 
 That  may  fuftain  and  keep  her  felf  and  brood; 
 Even  fo  this  Dame  as  foon  as  any  light  ^ 
 Afforded  her  the  leaft  ufe  of  her  fignt. 
 Up  from  the  bed  doth  her  fair  body  raiife,' 
 Kcr  Soul  mounts  up  to  Heav'n  the  Lord  to  praift. 
 
 But  after  her  devotions  finifhed , 
 And  all  her  fervants  duly  ordered. 
 Due  portions  to  her  maidens  (he  divides, 
 And  for  her  houdiold  dayly  food  provides, 
 Still  caring  for  her  husbands  table  moft. 
 To  furniflVt  bountcoufly  with  fmalleft  cofl; 
 Here  ftie  direds  her  Steward  and  her  Cook, 
 One  to  provide,  the  other  well  to  look. 
 That  with  her  fair  allowance  they  be  able , 
 To  furnifh  plenteoufly  her  husbands  table.  ' 
 
 This  time  (he  Soverain  waters  did  diffil, 
 ForflacinPhyfick  arc  had  raickle  skilj 
 
 Yet 
 
Thefecond  Book  of  Suianna, 
 
 Yet  was  her  charity ,  than  cunning  more. 
 Stooping  to  heal  the  mean|(l  Lazars  fore ; 
 Her  Lions  heart,  fine  hand,  and  Faglcs  eye, 
 Made  her  admir'd  of  all  for  Surgery.  ) 
 That  done,  fhe  back  returneth  to  her  maids. 
 Where  either  fhe  to  them  the  Scripture  reads. 
 Or  learns  them  fome  choice  precepts  (he  colicded, 
 Or  hiftories  which  moft  her  foul  affedcd  , 
 With  piety  their  minds  to  exercife , 
 Whilft  each  her  task  with  nimble  joynts  applies ; 
 Their  chiefeft  works  were  roabs,  to  keep  from  cold, 
 .  Tiie  Orphans  poor ,  and  Widows  that  were  old. 
 Of  cloth  which  (he  had  fpun  of  her  own  Fleecej 
 Yet  oft  (he  (hcwd  her  skill  in  curious  peece; 
 She  for  her  Husband  works  a  cap  or  band. 
 To  make  him  be  more  honoured  in  the  land. 
 Where  thou  might  fee  with  cunning  needle  told, 
 The  fubtil  Serpent  (imple  Eve  infold; 
 Here  (lands  a  tree,  all  covered  with  leaves, 
 Whofe  faireH-  truit  moft  lookers  on  deceives^ 
 By  this  was  (hadow'd  that  Forbidden  tree 
 That  Ad'4m  ban'd ,  and  his  Pofl-eritie. 
 Many  fair  trees  (he  planted  there  around. 
 But  none  fo  goodly  to  the  eye  was  found, 
 Like  fin  oFpleafing  (hew,  but  deadly  taft; 
 Better,  than  eat  iuch  poyfon  .  ever  faft* 
 But  noc  far  off,  her  cunning  hand  contrives 
 An  Avtidoie  which  out  this  poyfon  drives; 
 For  here  thechilds  dv  painted  to  the  life, 
 Ti  a"  trembleth  under  taithfull  Ahr^ms  knife. 
 Where  lo  1  above  his  hand  an  Angel  ftays. 
 And  dorh  his  faith  and  firm  obedience  praife; 
 Here  in  the  bu(h  a  Ipotlefs  Lamb  doth  lie. 
 Willing, to  fave  young  Ifaacks  life,  to  die^ 
 A  figure  of  that  Lamb  that  offered 
 His  life  to  fave  us  all  in  Ifaacks  feed, 
 
 Kk  Ofc 
 
Thefecond  Bjck  t/Sufanna. 
 
 Oft  with  her  maids,  about  her  round,  (he  (ingi 
 
 Davids  [vjcct  lays  unto  the  King  of  Kings , 
 
 Who  joining  all  with  angelick  fweet  noife. 
 
 Do  praife  the  Highefl,  all  as  with  one  voyce. 
 
 Thus  was  her  houfe  ot  maidens  arts  the  ichool, 
 
 And  Academy  to  inftrud  their  foul  : 
 
 Her  hands  with  ufe  fo  cunning  were  become. 
 
 That  though  her  eys  look*d  off.  her  work  was  done, 
 
 The  whilft  with  tbem  her  maidens  fh^  direds. 
 
 And  her  own  bufinefs  no  whit  negleds : 
 
 Oft  reads  (he  thcni  ibme  holy  Hymn  of  praiYe, 
 
 Yet  never  from  their  work  her  fingers  ft  ays. 
 
 Thus  (he  her  time  in  working  fpends  till  noon, 
 
 Whilft  lonchim  which  rofe  from  bed  as  foon , 
 
 Doth  his  whole  Family  together  call , 
 
 And  joyns  in  humble  prayer  with  them  all. 
 
 Then  walks  he  forth  to  fee  his  Oxen  plow, 
 
 Or  Mowers  pearly  locks  ot  Medows  mow, 
 
 Or  Widows  weeding  of  his  earing  Grain, 
 
 Or  Maidens  milk  from  baggs  of  Kine  to  ftrain  ; 
 
 Here  he  appoints  a  jolly  Swain  to  tend 
 
 His  Flock,  and  from  the  Wolf  and  Fly  defend; 
 
 Oft  wuuld  he  teach  a  courfer  for  to  pace 
 
 More ealy,  and  foreign  with  pkafing  grace; 
 
 But  ever  he  returneth  home  by  eight. 
 
 Where  many  longing  Clients  for  him  wait, 
 
 And  him  for  pity  and  corapaflion  praid, 
 
 To  be  the  Widows  and  the  Orphans  aid. 
 
 Brethren,  faith  he,  with  all  my  skill  and  might 
 
 3*1  liandfor  you,  if  that  your  caufe  be  right. 
 
 But  furely  know,  I  cannot  move  my  tongue 
 
 To  do  you  good  and  do  another  wrong ; 
 
 Law  is  a  conflant  will ,  a  ballance  crue. 
 
 That  gives  to  ev'ry  man  what  is  his  due. 
 
 And  therefore  muft  not  under  falfe  pretence, 
 
 Bs  made  vi  cloak  for  wrong  or  violent c^ 
 
Tfjefecond  B  ok  uj  '^  a td-una .  1 5 
 
 Or  be,  for  envy,  to  the  great  a  fnare, 
 Wbilft  faults  for  pity  in  the  poor  we  fpar?; 
 Right  fettcth  each  thing  in  the  proper  pj.  ce,' 
 Without  refped  of  perlons  fear,  or  grace. 
 Then  would  he  lend  to  all  a  patient  ear , 
 Till  each  his  caufe  in  Order  doth  declare  ; 
 The  right  with  all  his  might  he  w^uld  defend. 
 And  that  was  wrong  would  counfel  foon  to  end; 
 Nor  for  difpleafure ,  fear  of  lofs,  or  might. 
 Would  be  deterr'd  from  pleading  for  r he  righr; 
 Therefore  was  call'd  the  jud  mans  Advocate. 
 Trmh^s  Champion^  and  maincainer  of  the  State. 
 For  poor  thus  each  their  life  in  labour  fpends. 
 One  feeds  and  cloathes  chem,th'other  them  defends; 
 The  wifemans  rule  is  unto  both  a  guide. 
 Prepare  abroad,  then  things  at  home  provide. 
 A  BlefTed  pair,  for  Trmh  which  always  flood. 
 Their  end  Gods  glory ^  and  their  neighbours  good. 
 
 Now  had  the  glorious  Titans  panting  horfe 
 Attained  the  midv/ay  of  their  longeft  courfe , 
 And  Sol  to  check  vain- glorious  human  pride, 
 When  as  he  higheft  fate  was  leaft  defcrid; 
 When  Chimes  informed  old  fiomacks  it  was  noori  ^' 
 So  Judges  rofe ,  and  all  departed  foon; 
 And  Nature  craving  after  toil  repaft. 
 Makes  Jo^r^jw  unto  bis  dinner  haft. 
 Here  fhould  my  Mufe  in  order,  next  propound. 
 How  he  in  Order  all  things  ready  found; 
 Stifan  him  greeting  like  the  wife  Kings  Bride, 
 With  many  fair  chad  Damfels  by  her  fide. 
 Who  all  with  cheerfull,  comely,  modell  face  ^ 
 Bow  to  the  ground  with  courteous  comely  gracej' 
 His  Servants  round  about  the  Table  (land. 
 Attending  all  their  Lords  eye  and  commaand. 
 
 Who  can  defcribe  the  order  of  the  King, 
 Whofe  Wifdoms  glorious  fame  fo  far  did  ring, 
 
 Kk2  That 
 
^6  Thefeco;:d  Bock  o/Sufanna. 
 
 That  ic from Sht ha broughtthac prudent Darnei 
 Which  found  his  glory  far  exceed  his  fame  ? 
 He  to  defVribe  the  orders  only  able , 
 This  nobiv  man  obferved  at  his  table  ; 
 His  Servants,  Miniftcrs ,  his  drink  and  meat, 
 Happy  were  they  that  at  his  cable  cat; 
 Bk  (Ted  are  they  that  waiting  by  do  ftand. 
 His  gracious  words  and  deeds  to  underlland. 
 
 Their  third  and  hunger  being  iatisfi'd, 
 And  God  before  and  alter  glorifi'dj 
 After  fomefweet  difcourles,  all  arofe, 
 And  to  (heir  bufinefs  themfdves  difpofe; 
 Joachim  turns  his  books  the  law  to  find , 
 Which  raig;  t  refolve  fome  doubts  then  in  bis  mind. 
 With  tv;o  maids  Sufa-^^  as  it  was  her  guife , 
 To  bath  herfelf  into  the  Orchard  hies; 
 And  fending  forth  her  maids  for  Sope  and  Oyl ^ 
 Her  daintieft  body  doth  undrefs  the  while : 
 Oh,  Sufan  flay,  oh,  flay  not  here  alone, 
 The  wife  man  faith  ,  two  better  are  than  one; 
 The  Elders  clofc  in  wait  for  thee  do  lie 
 So  clofe  that  Sn/an  can  them  not  defcry. 
 
 Like  that  fair  Dame  which  leffcs  Son  from  high, 
 Batbinr^  herfelfin  garden  did  cfpie, 
 At  fudden  dazled  with  her  fpleiidor  bright , 
 Thinks  he  doth  fee  a  new  ^unrife  at  night; 
 So  (bines  the  ht^wvjoiSufaKy^^  face. 
 Her  eys  like  Stars  which  fro^y  night  do  grace, 
 iier  teeth  like  Ivory  piles  ftand  row  by  row, 
 O'r  which  her  lips  like  fcarlet  ribbands  (how. 
 Her  chin,  her  cheeks,  her  forehead,  and  hernofe^ 
 Like  Lillies  mixt  with  Kc6i  and  Camask  Rofe; 
 Her  Ivory  neck,  'fjir  flmulders  which  excell, 
 Her  paps  that  like  two  Harvey  apples  fvvel, 
 The  which  for  fporc  her  b.'tbes  were  wont  to  cuH, 
 When  they  from  them  had  iuck'd  their  bellies  full. 
 
 Her 
 
Thefecond  Beck  cf  Sufanna.  ^2 
 
 Her  fnowy  arms  card  grac'd  with  milk  white  palfflj 
 
 Like  two  cv'n  branches  ofthefaircft  Palm^ 
 
 Whofe  ends  were  with  fmall  fingers  joyntcd  neat^ 
 
 And  at  their  ends  fmooth  ftones  of  Bcril  fet. 
 
 The  reft  who  knows  ?  thtm  to  omitlchufe^ 
 
 As  not  once  thouf:;h'  of  by  ray  graver  Mufe. 
 
 But  li  e  into  the  wai  er  leaping  light. 
 
 To  cooi  her  heat,inflameth  their  deh'ght. 
 
 Where  pureft  waters  her  fnir  limbs  embrace , 
 
 As  Ivory  Sculpture  in  a  Chriftalcafe. 
 
 Like  chafeft  Cinthra  when  with  dreaded  dart. 
 
 She chac'd  the  Tigre,  Leopard,  and  the  Hart^ 
 
 Her  body  over-toiled  with  the  heat. 
 
 And  fatrefl:  Skin  o'r  (ladowed  with  fwear. 
 
 In  pureft  Foumain  in  the  (hade  doth  wafh,, 
 
 Whilft  all  her  darlings  round  about  her  pa(h; 
 
 Till  Hunter,  to  his  coft,her  beauty  fpies, 
 
 Which  heavenly  did  amaze  hi?  humane  eys. 
 
 The  fight  whereof  fo  ravifheth  his  breft, 
 
 A  realonablc  man  turns  fenfelefs  beaft. 
 
 With  fnaggy  horns,  clove  hoofs,  and  frighted  looks. 
 
 That  he  who  upward  erftjnow  downward  looks. 
 
 And  all  his  Curs  that  lately  he  fo  kd^ 
 
 Him  chafing  as  their  game  faft  fallowed- 
 
 Whom  pulling  down,  like  hfabtl  they  tear; 
 
 Such  beaftly  ends, all  beaftly  Letchers  fear  ; 
 
 Such  beaftly  ends  thefe  £/^irrx  eke  befaU, 
 
 Whilft  clouds  offtones  fing  their  curft  Funeral. 
 
 As  fubcil  Serpent  clofe  himfelf  did  hide 
 In  Edsn^ixW  a  fit  time  he  efpiM 
 When  Adam  to  forac  other  corner  ^one, 
 He  there  might  take  Eve  naked  ail  alone  j 
 So  thefe  two  Elders  of  the  Serf  ents  breed , 
 Who  bear  like  enmity  to  all  her  k^6^  - 
 This  naked  Dame  alone  watch  to  aflail. 
 And  firft  with  promifes  feek  to  prevail^ 
 
 K  k  3  Ma- 
 
23.  II* 
 
 t^  Tl  efeco/id  Bojk  o/Sufanna, 
 
 M^tdam^  faith  one,  the  ardour  which  we  prove 
 Burning  our  hearts  with  flames  of  fervent  love, 
 Compcll  us  life  and  honour  to  adventure, 
 And  clofcly  now  into  your  garden  enter; 
 If  you  will  us  in  true  affedion  meet , 
 Silver  to  you  (hall  be  like  flones  in  ftreet. 
 And  we  with  gold  will  fill  your  faireft  hands 
 Like  Danaet  lap ,  or  Ta^tn  golden  fands; 
 Thy  beauty  like  the  Day  Star  (hall  be  feen. 
 And  thou  (halt  reign  in  Iftdah  like  a  Queen: 
 But  if  thou  (hall  retufe  with  us  to  lie, 
 Behold  wc  then  againft  thee  tefl-ifie. 
 We  faw  thee  with  a  Youth  thy  Bed  defile, 
 And  thou  haft  fent  thy  maids  away  the  whilco 
 
 Who  can  exprefs  Daph»t*s  perplexitie, 
 When  Gods  lor  pity  turn'd  her  to  a  tree , 
 As  fhc  doth  naked  from  Apo/lo  flic, 
 And  ihan  her  honour  lofe,  would  rather  die? 
 Or  who  can  tell  that  pitifull  fore  taking 
 Oi  Ahf^oms  fair  Sifter,  when  (he  baking 
 Cakes  for  her  Brother  Armnon  for  to  eat, 
 Pcrceiv*d  her  honour  was  his  long*d-for  meat } 
 And  cn*d,  forbear,  oh  Brother,  to  difcover 
 Thy  Sillers  nakednefs  5  nay  rather  cover 
 My  fhame  than  force  me ;  oh  I  let  no  man  tell 
 Such  wickednels  was  done  in  Ifrael; 
 And  1  cvVi  whether  (hall  I  go  for  (hamc  > 
 And  for  a  Fool ,  all  Ifad  fhall  me  blame- 
 May  tell  how  Uelcbi*s  daughter  was  a(ham*d| 
 But  moft  the  Elders  for  their  luft  (he  blaro'd, 
 That  they  which  ought  to  judge  adultery, 
 Should  authors  be  of  fuch  iniquity; 
 That  thofe  her  Lord  and  (he  lo  honoured. 
 Should  plot  with  (hame  now  to  defile  his  bed. 
 Her  nakednefs  with  cloathes  (he  fain  would  hid^ 
 But  they  all  covering  to  her  deni'd ; 
 
 Hei 
 
Thefeco/zdBcokofS\x(sLnna,  [    t9 
 
 Her  covering  was  forrow  grief  and  ihamej 
 
 And  floods  of  tears  for  to  cxprcfs  the  fame« 
 
 As  when  fierce  thunder  threats  to  rend  the  skies. 
 
 Great  floods  by  ftorms  raoft  violent  arife, 
 
 That  Rivers  all  their  chanels  overflow. 
 
 And  drown  the  feed  which  husbandmen  do  fow  ^ 
 
 So  fill  her  tears  the  Laver  to  the  brim , 
 
 That  drown'd  in  forrow,  (he  in  tears  may  fwim; 
 
 Her  drops  of  fweat  like  pearls  do  trickle  down. 
 
 And  {he  is  all  benumb'd  as  in  a  fown; 
 
 Soly  crft  that  (hind,  afhamd ,  now  in  a  cloud 
 
 Himfelf ,  from  feeing  this  foul  fin,  doth  ihroud; 
 
 Showrs  fall  from  Heaven ,  as  if  the  Stars  did  mourn. 
 
 And  all  the  Birds  their  fon^s  to  murmurs  turn; 
 
 The  trees  fmall  drops  like  tears  about  do  da(h. 
 
 And  all  the  under  (hrubs  with  weeping  wafti; 
 
 The  (hrubs,  the  herbs ,  and  all  make  lamentation, 
 
 To  fee  this  Dame  fo  near  her  defolation; 
 
 And  ev*n  my  Mufe,  as  I  this  ftory  write, 
 
 Laments  and  mourns  to  fee  her  piteous  plight. 
 
 At  laft  fore  griev'd  that  human  eye  beholds 
 
 Her  naked  body,  (he  her  mind  unfolds. 
 
 My  Lords,  for  love  of  God,  this  fin  forbear^ 
 If  not  for  love  nor  honour ,  yet  for  fear. 
 When  you  condemn  another  iot  this  crime, 
 You  judge  your  felves ;  'tis  now  a  fitter  timc^ 
 To  faft  and  pray,  in  our  captivity. 
 Than  thus  to  double  our  iniquity. 
 If  I  like  Eve  confent  unto  your  mind  , 
 I  fure  like  her  a  like  reward  (hall  find; 
 And  if  I  do  yourwickednefs  withftand , 
 Yet  know  I  not  how  to  efcape  your  hand; 
 But  I  all  mortal  deaths  wil  rather  die. 
 Than  in  Gods  fight  commit  adultery ; 
 Who  doth  with  luft  her  lofcr  limbs  dnroul, 
 Defiles  her  body,  and  doth  damn  her  foul : 
 
 K  k  4  Have 
 
20 
 
 Thefecond  Bock  of  Sufanna. 
 
 Have  I  not  promifM  before  god  and  you, 
 To  be  unto  my  Husband  juft  and  true  ? 
 And  ;t/uO  not  all  by  Laws  Judicial  die, 
 Without  exception,  for  adultery? 
 Oh  Judges  grave,  but  bridle  yet  your  lufl*. 
 And  once  a  womans  Secrecy  entritfl:. 
 That  never  will  bewray  this  offerM  fhame, 
 For  honour  of  our  N  ation,  and  your  name; 
 But  howfoever  you  my  flefh  torment. 
 My  heart  to  wickednels  fhall  not  confent; 
 A  guilty  Confcience  is  a  foarer  wound. 
 Than  tprtures  all  that  Tyrants  out  have  found, 
 Darae^faid  the  ludge^  art  thou  yet  To  unwife. 
 Thou  knowft  that  Politicians  did  devife 
 Religion,  only  to  reprefs  the  Bafe, 
 And  hold  the  Noble  in  the  peoples  grace? 
 Doft  fear  God  ihould  us  in  this  adion  fee  ? 
 This  Lawyers  Gown  fhall  cover  thee  and  me^ 
 Under  which  oft  to  Heav*n  hath  paft  unfeen. 
 Tar  greater  trefpaflfes  than  this,I  ween; 
 Jjult  is  a  fport,  it  clofely  carried, 
 And  from  all  flefhiy  eys  clofe  covered; 
 The  Troth  which  to  your  Husband  you  did  plight, 
 Wms  but  for  Ceremony  in  our  Sii^ht\ 
 And  as  for  our  ludicial  Laws  offence, 
 ludges  hiive  power  therewith  to  difpence ; 
 Your  icir  and  honour  unto  us  entruft  , 
 And  you  lliail  find  us  faithfull,  cru^,  and  jufl; 
 Great  fs  the  honour  of  an  Elders  name. 
 Then  who  fhall  dare  or  thee  or  us  defame  ?  ■ 
 And  lor  ^i)\ytConfcifi9ve  uow  ip  foolidi  tender^ 
 Cud.m  lik?  oursywili  firong  and  valiant  render; 
 Weel  Jiot  torment  your  fleili,  but  it  delight; 
 Come,  M^tdu-m^  you  muit  try  an  Elders  might. 
 Then  1  ke  fouf  />V^r^that  greedy  oi  his  prey. 
 His  filthy  Paw  on  milk-white  L  mb  doth  lay  ; 
 
 ■     So 
 
rhefecond  Bookof$\ikiim.  ^t 
 
 Fo  he  by  force  would  bring  her  to  his  Ltfjtf 
 But  flie  that  in  th*Alinighty  put  her  truft, 
 ^feds no  SiilUtio  now  tor  to  defend 
 Her  honour,  but  loud  cries  to  Heav'n  doth  fend; 
 ^-^  Sureft  defence  that  V/omen  have  to  cry, 
 '^  To  fave  them  from  Lufls  raging  viliany. 
 
 You  HcmaUs^mafcFtliney  that  do  preteod. 
 You  weapons  wear  your  honours  to  defend. 
 If  in  the  Court,  or  City,  viliany 
 Should  be  attempted  'gainH:  your  Chaflky, 
 See  here  I  his  nak^d  woman  all  alone. 
 Defends  her  honour  having  two  to  one. 
 Her  rnodeft  looks  were  late  her  fure  defence? 
 •Gainfl  bafe  attempts ,  now  cries  'gabfl  violencci^ 
 Oh  model  of  a  Chad  and  Conflant  Darne, 
 The  World  al  Chaft  ot|es  ^  hence  SHfmnat  mmu 
 Eve  tempted  was, and  6y  temptation  fell. 
 Fair  Tham^r  forced  was  againfl  her  will; 
 Sarah  was  tane  away,  but  never  tride; 
 Shames  fear  mzdit  Lticrece  yield,  whereof  (he  di'd: 
 But  !udA*s  Daughter  naked ,  all  alone, 
 Here  overcomes  her  Tempters,  two  to  one. 
 
 But  one  of  them  ,  ah  1  fuddenly  doth  run 
 To  the  fore-gate,  which  he  hath  loon  undone. 
 And  coming  back  both*gain{l  the  woman  cry. 
 Stop,  flop  the  Adulterour,  ihey  both  rauO:  dy» 
 The  Servants  much  affrighted  with  the  noife. 
 And  knowing  well  they  heard  t^eir  Z>W>>/ voice, 
 Rufliing  in  at  the  backdore ,  found  their  Dame^ 
 Accufed  by  the  Elders  to  their  fhame. 
 
 Vile  woman  !  cri'd  ihe  one  of  them,  fie,  fie. 
 Is  this  thy  mode  ft  holy  Paritj  > 
 Thy  Pi'a\er,  Fading,  Alms,  and  Mcdiraion, 
 Sabbaths  and  New-mr  on?,  holy  objervacion, 
 W:th  Vv'bich  thou  feek'ft  thy  wickedneHI  to  cover? 
 God  now  will  thy  Hvpocrifie  difcovcr. 
 
 TI.y 
 
Si  thefecond  Bock  orSufanna . 
 
 Thy  pitious  look;,  and  feign'd  Orift  Confcience 
 
 Shall  be  no  SHherftt^e  for  fo»jl  offence, 
 
 Was  this  the  czn't  chcu  f^rch  thy  maids  didft  fend? 
 
 More  clofely  wich  a  young  man  to  offend; 
 
 We  as  true  Witneffes.  do  teflifie. 
 
 That  thou  art  taken  m^Jf^h^ry^ 
 
 Thy  M-nioK,  wc  A^ hopt'  to  catcu  .re  long, 
 
 Who  brake  from  us  becaufc  he  w^s  too  ftrong; 
 
 For  teftimony,  open  fee  the  dcor, 
 
 Through  v/hich  he  fcap  t,that  was  clofe  fpard  before 
 
 And  fee  her  naKed  as  with  him  (he  lay, 
 
 Lo  here  for  heat  her  girnienrs  laid  away. 
 
 The  Servants  ;.U  were  griev'd  and  much  afliam'd, 
 
 To  hear  their  Jame  thus  by  tht£/^tf?'/  blam'do 
 
 For  envious  Fame  durft  never  till  that  day, 
 
 icaft  Spot  or  Blemlfh  on  Sufanna  lay. 
 
 The  End  of  the  Second  Book, 
 
 Th 
 
?5 
 
 m 
 
 The  Third  Book  of 
 
 7  me  Lovers  greetings  wUlinger  todtf^ 
 
 Than  tofufpeSi  mut ml  integrity  ; 
 
 j^n  oU-m^n  into  thlkj>f%\x{2S\  fals^ 
 
 And  her  defcribes  from  Birth  to  Nuftials  :      ^  ^ 
 
 She  is  brought  forth ,  arraign* d^  condemned  to  dh] 
 
 God  her  delivers^  'foon  as  Jhe  doth  cry . 
 
 NO  w  Clouds  black  Curtains  under  Heav*o  wert 
 And  Morn  was  ail  in  Scarlet  manteled,(fprealt 
 (  For  chaft  ^»rtfr^  put  on  this  array. 
 To  fhew  the  horror  of  this  bloody  day :  ) 
 When  Elders  From  their  Beds  of  down  arife. 
 Who  naught  but  mifchief  all  the  night  devifej 
 And  fend  their  Serjeants  out  to  fiimmon  all  \^ 
 
 The  people  to  aflcmble  at  the  HalL      ^  | 
 
 Their  Love  was  turned  now  to  Indignstioni  I 
 
 Their  Luft  to  mifchievous  Imagination,  1 
 
 And  HoftileAikQ,  fince  they  may  not  enjoy '  f 
 
 Her  Fort  by  parley,  feek  it  to  dcftroy.  ■ 
 
 But  here  ch aft  5/if/^>^  doth  my  Mufc  invite 
 To  teil,  how  with  her  Lord  fhe  fpcnt  that  night  j 
 Who  hearing  in  his  ftudy  at  his  Book, 
 A  wondrous  noife ,  doth  from  his  window  look; 
 But  \x  hen  he  thence  but  little  could  difcern 
 For  (bade  of  trees ,  comes  down  the  truth  to  learn."  ^ 
 
 As 
 
2%  The  third  Bock  of  Sufanna,  I 
 
 •"•*o-      As  when  great  £^/'r/i'^«,  (to  lave  his  lifCj  5 
 
 Her,  SiftcrtallM,  who  was  indeed  his  Wife,  ' 
 
 Which  made  the  King  of  Gcrar  for  her  fend,  ^ 
 
 And  for  his  own  Wife  Sarah  apprehend ;  )  ? 
 
 vVas  vext  with  Fear,  Doubts,  Love  and  Icaloufie, 
 For  lofs  o( Hq»our^  and  the  Chaftity 
 Of  mother  of  the  faithfull,  who  for  clear. 
 Both  mind,  and  body,  never  yet  had  peer ; 
 But  when  the  King  convaiM  her  home  again 
 And  {he  affirm'd  herfelf  without  all  Itain, 
 Doth  unto  Heav*n  both  heart  and  hands  advance. 
 And  prais'd.the  Lord  for  her  deliverance; 
 And  though  foul  Fame?  her  for  this  ftiamc  reprove, 
 He  her  more  furc  and^onftantly  doth  love: 
 Even  f(>  loichim  was  at  firft  afraid 
 His  Wife  was  ufed  as  the  Elders  faid. 
 But  waying  well  her  FaUh  and  Conflancy , 
 Soon  blames  his  foolifh  Fear  Sind  lealou/ie; 
 And  turncth  all  his  doubts  and  bitter  paflion, 
 ^B"o  tender  Love^  tears,  pity,  and  compaflion. 
 And  her  embracing  thus  began  ;  My  dear  , 
 Forbear  t0  ly^ep  ,  and  let  me  from  thee  hear 
 The  dep^h'of  this  profound  iniquity. 
 That  bo(h  us  plungeth  in  this  raifery* 
 The  Deft^^/ooner  (hall  be  fruitfuil  Plain , 
 Mount  Sinas  top  be  drown'd  in  Oaan  mainj 
 And  Joris^rf^ifruitfull  valleys  turn  to  waft. 
 Than  I  fufped,my  loyal  Wife  unchaft. 
 As  when  fierce ^^f>rw/  do  all  the  mountains  wa(h, 
 And  threat  to  drown  the  valleys  with  a  dafli, 
 If  Titan  pleafe  to  caft  a  golden  Gleam  , 
 The  coalis  are  clear,  and  all  the  Heaz'n  ferencj 
 So,  at  thefc  glorious  fpeeches  of  her  Knight  ^ 
 Siifanna  turns  her  Cio  vdinefs  to  Light , 
 Her  eys  are  dn'd,  which  fountains  were  oftears,^ 
 Sighs  turn  u  to  fpeech,  and  thus  herfdf  (he  clears,, 
 
The  third  Book  of  S  ufanna .  ^ 
 
 wretched  1 1  ^yet  wretched  who  can  be, 
 hat  hath  to  Kind ,  a  Noble  Lord  as  thee? 
 J\\o  do*ft  me  now  in  loving  arms  embrace  :> 
 /hen  enemies  do  plot  my  moft  difgrace : 
 [y  Lord  1  (houldft  thou  fufped  my  Loyalty, 
 ly  heart  (hould  burfl:  for  grief,  and  I  ihould  die; 
 iut  lordans  dreams  (hall  fooner  backward  Aide, 
 i-nd  Force  my  Body  from  my  Soul  divide ; 
 lelelliall  F«>^  into  Earths  center  tend, 
 nd  Center  Titans  fiery  coach  afcend,  ' 
 'ban  I  confent  for  fear  of  Death  or  Shame  , 
 /ly  Confcicnce  with  eternal  fpots  to  blame. 
 erfwaded  be  that  I  have  loyal  ftood  , 
 Joyfully  will  leal  it  with  my  blood; 
 fear  no  accufations  unjuft, 
 ?^or  I  do  know  in  ivhom  I  put  my  truft. 
 rhefe  wicked  Lords  in  wait  for  mc  have  laid, 
 3ut  Shame  and  Sorrow  here  her  fpeeches  ftaid; 
 fVnd  fuddenly  another  C/ond  appears, 
 ^hich  dims  her  Li^ht,  and  drowneth  all  in  tears'^ 
 So  deep  (he  fighs^  fo  faft  her  tears  do  flow  , 
 That  Joachim  doth  weep  with  her  for  woe, 
 And  both  with  fighsand  groan;  their  loves  record. 
 But  neither  able  is  to  fpeak  a  word. 
 As  when  two  Clouds  in  Summers  day  arife. 
 In  Eaft  and  Weft> which  do  obfcure  the  skies. 
 The  leffer  cloud  which  Zephirus  doth  blow. 
 Comes  fwift;  bucLol  iht greater  corner  but  flow^ 
 Till  they  both  melting  in  the  fVelkjn  wide , 
 Raife  raging  Flouds ,  like  to  anEaftcrn  tide, 
 Whofe  violence  the  Eart  of  Corn  down  beats. 
 And  all  the  Plough- mans  labour  ill  intreats ; 
 So  do  the  tears  of  this  gricv'd  Couple  fall, 
 That  they  in  Sorrow  drown  F/ords,  Eys^  and  ^li 
 
 And  even  my  pen  in  Sorrow  drown'd  is  faint. 
 To  leave  them  weeping,  and  you  next  acquaint. 
 
 With 
 
1$  The  third  Book  of  Sufanna. 
 
 With  that  which  pafTed  in  the  Judgment  Hall^ 
 For  there  the  ptople  do  affemble  all. 
 AmoDgft  the  reft,  one  called  leremy^ 
 (  That  was  a  child  of  the  Captivity, 
 Who  was  old  Hdcht's  antient  friend  and  peer. 
 And  from  their  Cradles  moft  familiar  were, 
 And  often  had  the  Eiders  Office  born. 
 Till  Pride  and  bafe  Ambition  with  fcorn. 
 Had  thrown  from  Seat  of  luftice.  Equity, 
 And  foifted  tin  he  room  bafe  Bribery) 
 Being  now  fummonM  to  appear  that  day , 
 Enquired  of  Te^^iV^  then  upon  the  way. 
 What  caufe  was  of  this  Summons  general , 
 Who  told  him  what  to  Sufan  had  befall. 
 
 Sufan^  (aid  he,  what  Helcki*s  daughter  fair. 
 Which  is  her  Parents  only  child  and  heir. 
 Could  {he  be  brought  her  Fathers  hoi.fe  to  blame. 
 And  bring  her  Husbands  honour  unto  fhame? 
 Together  with  her  Parents  I  was  one 
 Led  Captive  by  the  Ki»g  to  Babylon  ; 
 There  was  no  man  more  Noble  in  the  Land 
 Than  he,  nor  more  for  Countries  good  did  ftandj 
 We  faw  our  Ki  igs  So^s  flain  before  his  face, 
 aKm.i5*  And  then  his  eys  thruft  out  for  more  difgracej 
 7*         Yet  viriue  grac'd  fo  Helchi  in  this  Layid^ 
 
 He  in  bigh^r^r^  foon  with  the  King  did  ftand. 
 And  was  the  firft  dwelt  here  in  his  own  houfe, 
 Moft  Valiant,  Noble,  Wife»  Religious, 
 Moft  happy  in  one  Chart  and  Godly  Wife, 
 By  whom  he  had  this  Child,  their  loy  and  Life. 
 
 I  fell  thee  Neighbour,  I  this  Girl  did  know 
 Even  from  a  Child,  as  pure  as  any  Snow, 
 Who  from  her  Mother  fuck'd  milk,  asfincere. 
 As  ever  any  Nurfe  to  Child  did  bear; 
 For  (he  fo  much  this  infant  tendered. 
 As  with  her  own  Breft  {he  is  fuckeled, 
 
 Fol 
 
The  third  Bock  o^Sufanna, 
 ^'For  with  the  milk ,  it  is  an  old  tradition, 
 ;^  The  Child  may  Tuck  a  good  or  bad  condition^ 
 So  foon  as  Parents  could  her  tongue  prepare 
 To  fpeak,  they  neicher  coft  nor  labour  fparc, 
 To  teach  her  all  demeanour  mannerly , 
 But  above  all,  the  dread  ot  the  moft  Hi^h* 
 In  Scripture  they  herdayly  taught  to  read. 
 So  that  in  time  they  fowM  in  her  fuch  ki^iy 
 As  might  produce  in  Harvefl  certain  gain , 
 For  all  their  tillage,  labour  cod,  and  pain.      (pafti 
 
 Scarce  had  the  Sun  twelve  umes  through  Virgo 
 When  fair  S^f annas  manners  fweet  were  caftj 
 By  care  of  Parents ,  in  fo  fair  a  mould, 
 That  all  with  wonder  did  the  Maid  behold; 
 In  publick  Dancing  (he  doth  not  delight , 
 Fairs,  Banquets,  Plays,  or  fittings  up  at  night. 
 Nor  yet  in  wandring  Dinoi  converfation. 
 But  Keeps  at  home  her  Fathers  habitation : 
 Imploying  all  her  pains  and  carefull  thought. 
 To  pleafe  and  tend  on  them  that  up  her  brought. 
 Like  Storky^\io  when  her  Parents  old  have  need> 
 Suftains  in  Eld,  who  her  in  Youth  did  itti-^ 
 Accounting  it  a  wondrous  happinefs , 
 For  gifts  received  to  render  thankfullnefs. 
 
 At  vacant  hours  it  was  her  chief  delight, 
 To  read  the  Stories  of  Gods  glorious  might. 
 Where  all  the  choifefi:  precepts  (he  could  find. 
 She  ftor'd  as  heav'nly  Mmna  for  her  mind; 
 The  lives  of  choifeft  Dames  of  UvqI'Io  Nation , 
 To  her  as  patterns  are  for  imitation. 
 Which  oft  with  needle,  left  fhe  fhould  forget. 
 She  in  moft  glorious  colours  neatly  fet; 
 Here  in  a  table  (he  doch  tell  the  Story, 
 ^^ ^^7P^' overthrow,  and  Iniahs  glory; 
 Where  Mir  jam  leads  her  Daughters  in  a  Dance,    • 
 To  fing  HcAv'ns  Prdfes  for  Ddiverance-^ 
 
 The 
 
it  Tijetfjird  Book  o^Suianm.  ' 
 
 The  Red  Sea  here  his  wafers  doth  divide, 
 
 Wbiift  //-.«. /paffeth  to  thcotherfide  ; 
 
 And  hererhc  rvavcs  begin  to  meet  agaiir,' 
 
 To  <d::ivv»»'n  vhe  proud  Rgyptians  in  the  mam ; 
 
 One  breaks,  but  knows  not  how,  his  Charet  wheef, 
 
 Anothers  horfe  doth  of  the  daggers  reel ; 
 
 liere  one  yet  without  hope  oi^ Lite,  doth  fwim, 
 
 Another  linking  caccheth  hold  on  him, 
 
 And  never  lets  him  go,  till  he  him  (Irain^ 
 
 Vnto  the  late  dry  bottom  of  the  Mai^i^ 
 
 Here  f^ands  a  Palm^whofe  height  and  bledch  excell. 
 
 Where  Debora  fits  Judging  Ifrael', 
 
 Clofe  by  whofe  fide  fate  valiant  Bardc^  who 
 
 Unf-O  the  war  without  Her^  would  not  go. 
 
 Here  weave:  fhe  fedhta  Daughter  in  a  Lome, 
 
 Fronj  C  >nquert  welcomming  her  Father  home, 
 
 When  lo,  he  rends  his  hair ,  and  tears  his  beard, 
 
 That  one  would  think  the  Pidure  had  been  fcar'd; 
 
 Who  for  the  vow  he  made  to  the  mofi  High^ 
 
 Devotes  her  to  perpetual  Chaftity» 
 
 Then  would  fhc  wiih  her  Father  fuch  a  crofs. 
 
 So  both  thereby  might  have  no  greater  lofs. 
 
 Off  fings  Ihe  ro  Her  Lute  divineft  Lays, 
 
 And  ofe  to  make  fwect  Hyms  her  felf  afTaies, 
 
 So  that  indeed  lo  win  her  for  his  Bride, 
 
 Young  Princes  fougbt,  but  (he  them  all  denide. 
 
 Thus  wooM  of  all,  but  yet  Loves  fiery  dart,  S 
 
 Could  n^fvcr  tbaw  the  chart  yce  of  her  heart; 
 
 But  hke  a  Diamovid^  which  nothing  but 
 
 A  DUm-^  ■'/Is  able  for  to  cut. 
 
 So  notbino  couid  this  peerlefs  Lady  move, 
 
 Buzpair/cj^    Of^c^nrst ruo^^  CO niiz nt  Lovf ; 
 
 Thelroneafier  rombi^Joved  Side 
 
 Or  Load-lione,  than  thtir  Loves  you  might  dividej 
 
 **  For  as  words  cu;  in  /^     y^o^ds^  ay  laft, 
 
 •*  So  Love  on  Virtut  s^iounded  flandeth  faft, 
 
 «*When 
 
The  third  Book  o^^'SufannaJ "  H 
 
 ^'  When  that  which  only  doth^on  Lufi  depend^ 
 "  Doth  like  to  AmmoYis  with  t  he  Tury  end. 
 This  man  was  vertuous,  of  noble  race^ 
 Rich,  beautifull  in  Body^  and  in  TAce\ 
 To  him  her  Parents  gladly  gave  confcnt, 
 And  with  her  happy  choice  were  well  content.; 
 
 Then  fee  how  Love  thus  lawfully  begun 
 Betwixt  this  pair,  a  holy  courfe  doth  run; 
 A  Wife  difcreet  man .  chaft  and  modell:  wife, 
 Liv'd  as  their  Bodies  both  had  but  one  Life , 
 One  wiljjonc  mouth  to  wiih  and  to  dired. 
 What  one  delights,  the  other  doth  affed. 
 And  he  offends  both,  that  difpleafeth  one  ^ 
 Thus  are  they  truly  both  one  fie fo  and  hone. 
 The  old  man  farther  would  his  tale  have  told. 
 But  now  they  at  the  Hall  arriv'd,  Behold  I 
 The  Officers,  and  Serjeants  cry  out.  Room  ^  . 
 Make  way,  for  here  ray  Lords  the  Eldtrs  corned 
 
 As  Ittdges  ( which  the  wicked  lefabely  ^^ia»ii 
 
 To  get  the  Field  which  Naboath  would  not  fell) 
 Corrupted  by  her  Lines  prodame  a  faft, 
 And  guiltlefsJV^^tf^r^  with  the  chiefeft  placet; 
 Till  that  two  wicked  perfons  fware  this  thing, 
 We  heard  this  man  blalpherae  Gsd  and  the  ^ing^^ 
 Whereat  the  giddy  I nronrs  out  do  cry^ 
 Wc  find  him  guilty,  guilty  let  him  die* 
 So  came  thefe  wicked  Elders  to  the  Hall , 
 RefclvM  to  wreak  their  S^ite  and  MaUcg  all; 
 But  that  they  might  themielves  upright  pretend, 
 They  caafe  the  people  for  the  Baime  to  fend, 
 Who  with  her  Parents,  Children,  and  her  kin. 
 Appeared  as  fair  without  as  clear  within* 
 
 As  when  the  Coarfe  of  fome  much  honour'd  Peer^ 
 Unto  her  Tomb  is  broughc  upon  a  Besr^ 
 Cover*d  with  velvet  black  down  to  the  ground, 
 Her  friends  and  kinf-folks  all  about  her  round, 
 
 LI  Their 
 
2  0  'rt^^  third  Bock^  of  S  ufanna . 
 
 Their  late  delights  now  all  to  Sorrow  turn ; 
 But  rnori:  her  Parents,  and  her  Children  mourn 
 For  lofs  of  their  dear  Child,  and  careful!  Mother, 
 Who  never  had,  nor  (hall  have  fuch  another ; 
 That  all  the  lookers  on  and  llanders  by , 
 Bewail  the  laft  ad  of  this  Tragedy. 
 ^o  was  this  Dame  brought  out  in  black  array 
 Unto  the  FuKer/tlohhis  fad  day. 
 Her  fair  black  dole  low-reaching  to  the  ground, 
 Under  which  heav'nlv  Beauties  all  abound, 
 Follow*d  by  noble  Dames  of  leiivilh  Nation, 
 Who  made  for  her  exceeding  Lamentation; 
 Yea,  fo  her  Parent?  and  her  Children  mourn, 
 Ic  doth  ail  iHdahs  hearts  to  pity  turn ; 
 Yet  would  the  Elders  Bowels  not  relent. 
 Though  even  the  Rocks  and  Stones  feem  to  lament. 
 And  iure  none  can  the  Afhes  in  an  Urn 
 Bewail  more  than  they  all  for  her  do  mourn; 
 Herein  the  difference  doth  only  lie, 
 A  Coarfe  is  dead ,  and  Sufin  is  to  die; 
 Ont*s  Soul  is  whole  in  heavenly  habitation, 
 Hers  there  as  yet  only  by  contemplation. 
 
 The  Elders  burning  in  old  luOfuli  fire , 
 To  (ktisfie  their  beaftly  Lufts  defire. 
 Command  the  Ser/eants  ftreight  her  face  uncover^ 
 And  at  the  Bar  the  prifoner  plain  difcover. 
 
 As  when  the  Coffin  which  the  Coarfe  contains. 
 With  black  all  covered,  on  the  Herfe  remainSj 
 Th^mourmrs  fetm  their  lo'id  laments  to  hold, 
 But  when  the  Sexton  doth  the  Sa^ne  unfold, 
 Preparing  it  lor  Earths  lad  habitation^ 
 All  fend  out  loudefl:  groans  and  Lamentation; 
 So  all  her  Friends  this  living  Coarfe  bewail. 
 When  from  her  tender  eys  they  pull  the  vail^ 
 Her  pAce  then  under  Sorrows  cloud  doth  fhine, 
 is  iMcrtals  may,  like  to  Divine; 
 
 Hcil 
 
Tfje  third  Book  o/SufannaJ  If 
 
 Her  hair  like  wires  of burni(h*Cf^/^  appearsiJ 
 Whereon  like  pearls  do  hang  her  chriflal  tcars^ 
 MMiciotuCurs  look  off,  your  fight  is  ill , 
 You,  like  tbc  Ji^is^UuV^  by  eying  kill ; 
 For  her  but  yeftcrday  your  Lives  you  ventred. 
 And  into  her  Lords  Orchard  clefely  entrcd; 
 But  now  I  fee  the  flame  which  you  then  hurn*dc 
 Is  ^11  to  Malice^  lUte^  and  Vtiry  turned  ; 
 In  brief  the  Clerk  doth  her  inditemcnt  read, 
 To  which  flie  truly  doth  non-  amity  plead  , 
 Yet  fo  the  La^Oo  is,  that  upon  Denial^ 
 Her  Life  muftftand  upon  the  Peoples  trial. 
 
 Poor  wretch  (kith  then  the  eldeft  '  ^dgf)  confeft^ 
 And  ask  God  pardon  for  thy  Wickednefs ; 
 The  Evidence,  alafs !  too  plain  will  bj. 
 The  WiinefTes  thee  in  the  ad  did  fee. 
 *'  Bu t  w  ho  fears  not  to  ad  Adul tery 
 *'  In  Gods  fight ,  fears  not  before  men  to  lie. 
 Thou  thought'ft  this  thing  in  fecret  to  have  done. 
 But  God  fhall  make  it  clearer  than  the  Sun* 
 Then  on  her  guiltlefs  head  both  lay  their  hands, 
 WhiPfl  (he  like  lefthes  virgin- daughter  flands, 
 Looking  to  Heav'^n  expding  when  Priefts  knife. 
 Should  for  burnt-offering  diipatch  her  life. 
 And  thus  they  fwear;  As  lafl  days  afternoon, 
 We  two  in  fhady  Arbour  fate  alone , 
 In  at  the  fore-gate  to  the  Orchard  came. 
 With  Maidens  two  attending  her,  this  Darae, 
 Whom  at  the  back  gate  foon  away  (lie  fcnds^ 
 Whtl'ft  fome  Devotions  private  fnc  pretends; 
 But  in  clofc  fhade  we  fuddenly  elpie 
 A  young  man,  waiting  with  tiiis  D:ime  to  lie; 
 And  much  afham'd  of  fu'h  moft  wicked  fad, 
 Arife  and  take  them  in  the  very  ad 
 The  man  efcapes,  becaufe  he  was  too  flrong, 
 for  we  alas  are  old,  and  he  was  your.gj 
 
 LI2  Cut 
 
3$  *^he  third  Book  of  Sufanna. 
 
 Out  ofthe  gate  he  breaks  from  us  away. 
 But  what  he  was  this  Dame  will  not  bewray; 
 Tliis  truth  'fore  God  and  man  we  teftifie , 
 Now  hear  the  L^w^againft  Adnhery"^ 
 The  Clerk  then  reads ,  The  man  that's  lying  found 
 Deut.2i.  With  any  Woman-kind  in  wedlock  bound, 
 *'•        They  both  (hall  die,  as  both  together  lay. 
 So  fin  from  Ifrarl  is  done  away. 
 Then  as  the  Chimes  the  Clock  doth  follow  foon. 
 As  it  hath  told  her  longeft  tale  at  noon. 
 Not  caring  whether  ic  go  falfe  or  true. 
 So  do  the  idle  giddy-headed  crew, 
 At  hearing  of  the  i  ttdges  Witnefs,  cry, 
 We  find  her  guilty,  guilty  let  her  die. 
 O  Heav*ns  I  chaft  Snfan  die  ?  Thou  maid  complain, 
 That  thou  thine  heart  haft  denfed  then  in  vain , 
 In  vain  haft  wafti'd  thine  hands  in  innocence  , 
 And  day  and  night  endured  chaftifements : 
 But  underftanding  well  thv  fearfull  end 
 Of  thofe  that  ib  nialicioufly  intend. 
 How  they  confume  snd  perifti  fudddenly 
 She  only  thus  aloud  to  God  doth  cry, 
 
 SeArcherof^ecrtfr    who  from  ever  was. 
 And  all  things  know^ft  before  they  come  to  pafs. 
 Thou  know'ft  they  falflv  thefe  things  teftifie 
 Againft  me  ;  therefore,  Lo  I  guiltlefs  die ; 
 Thou  know*!>  1  never  to  /uc^  things  confentcd. 
 As  thcle  men  have  malicioufly  ii:vented. 
 
 As  Bullei  hen  which  force  of  Powder  fends. 
 Swiftly  attains  the  myrk  which  it  intends; 
 Ev'n  lo  thefe  words  fent  from  a  wounded  Sprite^ 
 Fly  to  the  Lord  that  judgfch  all  things  right; 
 Who  underftanding  welf  Hy  this  appeal , 
 
 Guiltlefs  iy»^?«;7rf/ wronc     forthwith  doth  fcal. 
 
 Without  delay^or  Fee,  an  Inhibition, 
 
 And  to  a  young  man  grants  a  new  coraraiflion. 
 
 For 
 
The  third  Book  o/Sufanna.  ? 3 
 
 For  God  /  as  was  feen  often  inthofedays) 
 The  Spirit  of  young  Darnel  doth  raile,  i^^ 
 
 Who  as  (hee's  led  to  execution,  cries,  '^ 
 
 I  free  am  from  this  bloody  Sacrifice. 
 The  people  which  all  novelties  dcfire , 
 Return  of  him  his  meaning  to  enquire. 
 Who  in  the  Spirit  of  Truth  now  waxing  bold. 
 Before  them  all  their  errour  doth  unfold* 
 
 O  Fools  sbilfrael  \  who  to  difcern 
 The  Truth  not  able  are,  nor  feek  to  learnj 
 You  one  of  Ifrads  Daughters  hecr  to  die  ^ 
 
 Condemned  have,  but  know  no  reafon  why; 
 Before  what  Judges  did  you  her  arraign? 
 Who  her  accufers  are?  and  who  again 
 ^re  Witneffes  ?  What,  two  falfe  BUers  (liall 
 Be  ludge,  Accufer,  Witncffcs  and  all  ? 
 *^  He  that  bis  throne  on  lufiice  will  cred, 
 '  Mens  caufes^  not  their  perfons  muft  refpcd ; 
 Jf  Elders  now  Accufers  will  become ,  Deut.19; 
 
 They  muft  before  the  Priefls  and  U^^es  comej  17. 
 
 And  if  they  fail  to  prove  their  Accufation  ^ 
 They  muft  be  fubjed  to  like  condemnation; 
 Return,  return  ,  make  betret  inquifition. 
 Put  the  Accufers  both  out  of  Commiiijon, 
 Appoint  new  judges,who  with  diligence. 
 May  try  the  fVttnefes,  and  her  defence; 
 Return,  return,  in  ludgment  fit  again , 
 For  they  againft  her  falfely  do  complain. 
 
 As  When  loft  Son  oi  lacoh  did  unfold. 
 The  meaning  of  the  Dream  which  Pharaoh  told,       ^tn  ui 
 And  wi(h*d  that  he  ftiould  Oj^cf-^/ command,  3«.  *  *  * 
 
 To  ftore  up  food  to  fave  alive  h«s  Land; 
 None  then  in  Pharaoh's  and  his  Servants  f  ys 
 Appeared  than  this  Hebrew  Child  more  wife; 
 For  by  his  gracious  words  they  plain  dcfcry, 
 Gods  Spirit  in  him  raoft  abundantly  i 
 
 LI  3  And 
 
54  Tfje third  Book  of  Sufanna. 
 
 And  therefore  next  unto  the  King  muft  ftand. 
 
 And  govern  by  his  word  all  -^gjpt  Land. 
 
 So  when  the  youth  doth  his  great  prudence  (how. 
 
 By  words  hke  dew  of  Heav'n  which  from  him  flow, 
 
 All  with  one  mind  conclude  for  certainty, 
 
 In  him  the  Spirit  refts  of  the  mod  High  : 
 
 And  therefore  as  approving  of  Gods  choice, 
 
 They  all  eled  him  E/der  with  one  voice ; 
 
 And  th'other  from  their  Offices  fufpcnd. 
 
 Till  this  their  Caufc  (hall  have  a  fimil  end. 
 
 The  End  of  the  Third  Book, 
 
 5r"^* 
 
 II  |-  ~    -  i|-   r  r 
 
 The 
 
r>  > 
 
 The  Fourth  Book  of 
 
 .    The  fickle  [td*e  offeeming  men  of  might ; 
 Their  peace  ofConjdence  that  Indge  upright. 
 The  People  fUin  the  Elders  malice  jee. 
 In  that  their  Teftimomes  dip.gree'^ 
 Sufan*/  abfolv'd^  and  the)  condemned  to  dig*^ 
 Of  Mm  and  An gi  Is  Heav'nlj  mdod), 
 
 YOu  Judges^  that  on  Earth  Gods  people  wleli 
 As  Husbands  Trees  and  Bufhes  in  a  Field, 
 Crop  which  you  lift,  and  which  you  liftlet  grows 
 And  arc  as  Gods  Vice-gereats  here  below; 
 Lo  here  an  emblem  of  your  fickle  fate. 
 And  vain  inconftancy  of  human  ftatCj 
 Who  but  this  morning  ruiM  both  far  and  neer. 
 Ere  noon,  as  prifoners  at  the  bar  appear ,        * 
 And  who  ev'n  now  were  Ikdges  over  all, 
 Muftby  their  Subjeds  judgement  ftand  or  fall. 
 Arabitionbafc  ,  light  puff  of  vvorthlefs  Pride, 
 How  doft  thou  here  vain  mortals  thoughts  deride? 
 
 ^  Them  throwing  like  hand-bals  againfl:  the  ground, 
 
 '  That  they  again  the  higher  may  rebound. 
 And  when  as  thou  haft  finifhed  rhy  Sport, 
 Them  leav'ft  all  in  the  Duft  in  cquj!  fort. 
 Oh  happy  Elders !  could  your  C'  nfcience  ^^^^ , 
 
 Now  plead,  with  Samnels^  a  juft  defence;  >. 
 
 114  That 
 
^6  Tlefot/rth  BockofSuf^anna. 
 
 That  willing  doth  before  King  .^rf«/ appear. 
 
 And  people  aHjhimfeir  of  fraud  to  clear; 
 
 Whofe  Ox,  whofe  Affe  havelunjuft-Iy  tane? 
 
 Whom  have  I  wrong'd/aith  he,  in  Goods,or  Name? 
 
 Of  whofe  hands  have  I  taken  lefs  or  more, 
 
 To  blind  mine  eys,  and  1  will  ail  reftore? 
 
 Before  God  and*s  Anointed  (  fay  they  )  wc 
 
 Acknowledge  th:e  from  all  corrr ptions  free: 
 
 Thus  all  acquitted  upright  Samuel, 
 
 Who  many  years  had  judged  all  //'V^^/; 
 
 But  thefe  two  E/ders  had  not  rul'd  one  year. 
 
 Ere  they  are  both  brought  forth  themfelves  to  clear 
 
 Before  the  Judjre^  and  there  to  teftifie 
 
 Againfl- themfelves,  their  own  iniquity. 
 
 Oh  Peerlcfs  pearl  of  good  found  Confcience  / 
 When  we  are  cali'd  to  plead  our  own  defence, 
 Efpecially  before  the  Lord  of  might. 
 Before  whon  all  our  deeds  muft  come  to  light , 
 When  Angels  (hall  aloud  their  trumpets  blow, 
 And  mortals  all  at  once  in  flefh  fhall  (how, 
 For  to  receive  their  juft  and  final  Djom, 
 When  all  in  ^^erfon  muft  to  Judgrr.ent  come; 
 How  cheerful!  fhall  good  Confciences  *bide> 
 Whiift  wicked  wiih  the  Rocks  may  fall  and  hide 
 Them  from  the  vengeance  of  that  jufted  one. 
 Who  retributes  to  all  as  they  have  done. 
 Aj.  r\ilell:  Solomon  when  he  could  find 
 j^''?.^5.No  certain  witnefsto  rcfolve  his  mind, 
 
 Wuea  as  two  women  did  before  him  drive  , 
 Whofe  was  the  dead,  and  whofe  the  Child  alive, 
 Well  knowing  one  of  chem  the  truth  did  know, 
 Devis'd  how  by  them/elves  it  plain  to  fhow; 
 So  thisyoun^  /«4^f  in  heavn*ly  wifdom  wife, 
 Doth  with  the  Lords  and  people  thus  advife. 
 Brethren,  Lo  here  a  queftion  betwixt  two, 
 '/uich  none  on  Earth,  but  they,  do  truly  knowj 
 
 The 
 
the  fourth  Book  of  Sui'dnna.  37 
 
 The  Dame  denies  what  thefe  accufers  fwear, 
 
 Shce's  one,  they  two,  but  both  one  party  are. 
 
 And  Witneffes,  therefore  in  Laws  conception. 
 
 They  both  are  liable  to  juft  exception; 
 
 Wherefore  I  will  that  one  be  put  afide , 
 
 Whilfl  th'other  is  examined  and  tri*d; 
 
 *  God  that  from  Heav*n  the  truth  ofall  doth  fee, 
 
 ^  Will  never  let  falfe  WicnefTes  agree. 
 
 W  hen  they  are  parted,  firfl:  to  Bar  they  call 
 
 The  Elder  Judge,  there  to  be  feen  ofall: 
 
 Who  as  bafc  Shemet  (of  the  curling  kind  j 
 
 After  he  was  by  Solomon  confin'd  )  1  KU.+a 
 
 For  paffing*s  bounds,  then  brought  before  the  King^ 
 
 (His  guilty  Confcience  'gainft  him  Witnefiing, 
 
 The  wickednefs  he  to  King  David  did. 
 
 When  from  his  gracelefs  Abfolom  he  fled) 
 
 Stood  mute,  amaz*d  before  the  judgment  feat. 
 
 And,  out  ofhope,  no  pardon  doth  intreat; 
 
 So  ftood  the  Carle  amazed,  fhaking,  mute, 
 
 Expeding  God  (hould  vengeance  retribute^ 
 
 Yet  being  old,  and  full  of  fubtilty , 
 
 Doth  thus  hisjown  proceedings  juftifie : 
 
 My  heart  is  confident  and  bold  within , 
 
 Since  all  I  did  was  but  to  punifh  fin; 
 
 If  in  fome  circumftances  fail  I  (hall 
 
 To  be  Accufer,  Witnefs,  ludgc  and  all^ 
 
 My  Witnefs  bearing  thus  I  juftifie. 
 
 There  was  no  more  but  we  could  teftifie. 
 
 And  better  we  to  bring  this  accufation. 
 
 Than  leave  unpunifh*d  fuch  abhoraination  ; 
 
 As  for  condemning^  let  the  people  fay, 
 
 Who  were  the  only  Judges  here  to  day; 
 
 We  never  urq*d  the  rigour  of  the  Law, 
 
 We  only  cefiifi'd  what  we  both  faw; 
 
 Let  not  her  tears  or  beauty  thee  fo  blind. 
 
 As  (he  a  patron  for  her  fin  may  find; 
 
 Befides 
 
3^  Thefoum  Book  of  bumnna. 
 
 Befidcs  the  proof  which  we  by  Oath  have  fliowii; 
 Tis  plain ,  we  found  her  naked  all  alone. 
 Alone  ?  faid  Darnel ,  cancred  Carle  that  haft 
 Liv'd  wickedly     fo  long ,  and  fo  unchaft, 
 The  ungracious  deeds  thou  aded'ft  in  Gods  fight. 
 Shall  here  before  us  all  be  brought  to  light ; 
 Falfe  judgements  thou  hsft  given,  and  fore  oppreft 
 The  innocent, the  guily  haft  releaft- 
 Yet  faith  the  Lord  ^The  Innocent  and  Right eopn 
 Thotifhdt  mtflafy  morj'jflifie  the  HnrighteoHs^ 
 We  have  well  mark'd  the  wicked  accufation 
 Thou  bring'ft  againft  this  Daughter  of  our  Nation  „ 
 If^  as  thou  iWear'ft,  thou  faw*ft  tb* adultery , 
 Tell  now  undet?vWhac  tree  they  chcn  did  lie? 
 A  Mulbery  tree ,  the  £/rttfr  then  repli'd; 
 Well,  then  faid  Daniel^  now  thou  haft  U*d 
 Againft  thy  felf ,  the  Angel  of  the  Lord 
 Stands  ready  to  divide  thee  with  a  fword, 
 Againft  thine  owa  life  thcMjhafl:teftifiM; 
 Bring  forth  the  pthcr,  put  this  wretch  afide. 
 Simile.        ^^  thief  which  fears,  bclil<f^  his  guilty  breft, 
 That's  fellow  hath  before  tiiA.tlieftconfeft, 
 Trembles  and  quakes  at  his  Examination , 
 And  feeks  to  fcape  by  nice  equivocation, 
 At  laft  rcfolviiig  ftill  to  hold  his  tale, 
 Doth  utter  words  that  tend  to*6  final  bale; 
 Ev*n  fo  this  fecond  fears,  his  will  not  hold 
 Agreement  with  the  tale  hi^  fellow  told; 
 Or  that  his  Brother  might  the  truth  confefs. 
 In  baf  e  of  pardon  for  his  wickednefs ; 
 Bueinthe  end,*cis  his  determination. 
 No  whit  to  alter  his  firft  accufacion. 
 And  therefore  with  a  feigned  innocence. 
 He  boldly  fpeaks  thus  in  his  own  defence. 
 
 Brethren^  fince  you  co  me  this  office  gave, 
 I  know  I  did  fo  well  ray  ieU  behave, 
 
 As 
 
The  fourth  Bock  of  Sulanna. 
 
 is  guiklefs  nofw  1  need  not  be  afraid, 
 
 fo  beg  unto  mine  innocence  your  aid; 
 
 That  you  from  me  ray  dignity  have  rent, 
 
 ^nd  broug?  t  me  to  the  Bar^  l  am  content , 
 
 My  (boulders  of  a  burthen  is  well  lighted , 
 
 For  never  I  in  Soverainty  delighted; 
 
 f  hat  which  mine  heart  with  grief  doth  now  aflfcd 
 
 fs,  that  you  me  of Falfity  fufped; 
 
 That  you  (hould  think  I  durft  fwear  to  a  lie, 
 
 And  not  expeft  dread  lightning  fuddenly: 
 
 Young  man,  God  fend  thee  honour  in  thy  pjace, 
 
 Thy  greatnefs  build  not  yet  on  our  difgrace  ; 
 
 What  us  befalls  may  come  to  thee  as  foon. 
 
 We  judged  in  the  morning,  thou  at  noon; 
 
 Therefore  beware,  oh  man,  thou  ludgeft  right. 
 
 Thou  know'il  not  who  may  ludge  thy  felf  ere  nighty 
 
 What  profit  is*c  to  me  in  this  to  lie, 
 
 And  to  condemn  my  true  friends  wife  to  4i^'  f. 
 
 Good  loachims^  who  wereihe  chaft  as  fair , 
 
 They  were  a  holy,  noble ,  peerleis  pair; 
 
 But  that  whereof  we  now  accufc  this  Dame, 
 
 I  fwear  is  true,  who  dares  deny  the  fame? 
 
 Then  Daniel  faid,  O  thou  oiCamdm  feed. 
 And  not  of ///^<i^/,  Beauty  hath  indeed 
 Deceived  thce^  and  Lu(V  doth  ev'n  thy  h^ar| 
 And  all  the  powers  of  thy  foul  pervert ;      .'^ ;       . 
 Thus  you  with  Ifraels  Daughters  dealt  before. 
 And  they  for  fear  have  plaid  with  you  the  Whore; 
 But  ludahs  Daughter  J  cachim  J  chaft  Bride, 
 Could  never  fuch  foul  wickcdnefs  abide; 
 But  they  that  will  have  onccondemn*d  to  die , 
 Ought  of  the  time  and  place  to  reftifie ; 
 Then  tell  me  truly,  underneath  what  tree 
 Them  companing  together  thou  did'fl  fee. 
 Under  a  Pomegranate,  he  then  reply's, 
 gchold  now  aU,  how  this  vile  villane  lie^-, 
 
 Sait 
 
'    40  'The fourth  Book  of  Suhnna. 
 
 Saith  then  the  Judge,  the  Angel  with  a  Sword 
 i>hall  thee  divide,  of  God  and  man  abhor'd; 
 Had  (he  in  Orchyard  to  your  lufts  confentcd, 
 This  crime  againft  her  had  not  been  invented^ 
 Well  knew  I  this  before  by  revelation. 
 But  would  mak'c  plain  by  their  examination, 
 Before  I  unto  judgmuint  did  proceed; 
 Wherefore  I,  inGtrds  name^  this  fentence  rcad^ 
 I  DrfWr/,3  ludge  by  yourComraiflion, 
 
 The^sea-  Having  with  diligence  madeinquifition 
 In  caufe  pretended  of  Adultery, 
 Between  this  Dame,  and  thefe  two  Elders  by^ 
 And  Witneffes  in  diffrent  tales  fo  found. 
 That  thereby  one  the  other  doth  confoundj 
 Firft  do  abfolve  from  guilt  this  Chafteft  Dan  c^ 
 Reftoring  her  to  her  good  name  and  fame; 
 Next  1  pronounce,  that  who  fo  up  Ihall  rife, 
 
 l?«u.i,.i^  And'gainft  his  Brother  falfely  teftifies. 
 Ought  juftly  to  receive  that  puniftiment. 
 Which  wickedly  he  to  his  Brother  meant. 
 Do  to  him  as  he  would  have  donel  fay. 
 So  ill  from  ffraeih  done  away. 
 And  fo  (hall  other  hear  of  it  and  fear. 
 And  henceforth  no  falfe  teflimony  bear; 
 Let  not  your  cys  of  them  take  leaft  compaffion^ 
 Refpeft  not  greatnefs,  perfon,  age  or  nation; 
 A  hand  for  hand,  for  tooth  tooth  ,  ey  for  ey, 
 A  foot  for  foot,  for  murder  let  them  dy; 
 Never  did  any  people  fay  Amen 
 More  gladly  to  the  Preachers  prayer,  when 
 He  for  the  fafety  of  the  King  doth  pray. 
 And  their  confufipn  that  would  him  betray, 
 Than  all  the  multitude  their  (houtings  raife. 
 To  blefs  his  luftice,  and  their  maker  praife. 
 God  that  from  fraud  delivereth  the  juft. 
 And  from  the  wicked,  all  that  in  him  trufl:. 
 
The  fourth  Book  o/Sufanna.  4^ 
 
 Vnd  as  when  farsx  that  arcenal  full  fraught  powaer 
 
 /Vith  treafon,  mifchief,  and  rebellious  thought,         '^'•*^*'"' 
 Plotcing  the  death  and  utter  defolation, 
 3f  King,  Priefts,  Nobles,  and  of  all  our  Nation,      ^«"^ 
 Becaufe  like  Sufan  here  we  did  deny 
 fo  leave  our  Lord,  and  to  accompany 
 A^ith  le^aM^  in  foul  abhoraination, 
 A^ith  whom  Earths  Princes  commit  fornication,) 
 Condemned  was  byludgcs  jufteftdoom, 
 Lo  all  the  People  do  together  come 
 With  joyfull  hearts,  unto  his  execution, 
 VSThere  he  receiveth  jufteft  retribution; 
 Even  fo  when  D^mtl  for  falfc-witncfs  bearing, 
 rhc  Elders  had  convl^  in  peoples  hearing. 
 Upon  them  the  whole  multitude  doth  run, 
 And  did  to  them  ev'n  as  they  would  have  done 
 To  chafteft  Dame,  fo  fin  was  done  away, 
 And  her  blood  innocent  was  favM  that  day. 
 
 My  Hiftory  is  done,  but  not  myfong, 
 For  they  that  all  this  while  have  held  their  tongue^  \ 
 Up  now  their  Voices  unto  Heaven  raife, 
 And  for  this  Dames  deliverance  fing  praife; 
 Firft  old  Helchias  Spirit  doth  revive 
 As  lacobt,  hearing  lofefh  was  alive, 
 And  like  to  upright,  godly  Simeon  oii. 
 When  he  our  Saviour  in  his  arms  doth  hold. 
 Sings  f^ftnc  Dimittis^  Oh  now  let  me  die,  ^ 
 
 In  Snfan's  found  not  leaft  difbonefty; 
 And  next  his  Wife  like  Miriam  doth  fing, 
 The  noble  praiies  ofher  Heavenly  King, 
 When  as  fhe  faw  her  enemies  confounded. 
 And  all  \\s^ ?^gjptiAns  in  the  Red  Sea  drowned; 
 Oh  Joachim^  wtio  can  thy  joy  defcry  I 
 That  thouconceiv'dft  for  her  delivery? 
 He  only  that  hath  skill  to  touch  the  llring 
 Of  Davids  Harp^  and  Pfalms  Ike  his  to  fing^ 
 
 Caa 
 
 L 
 
The  fourth  Book  of  Susanna. 
 
 Can  here  defcribe  the  heav'nly  melody  ,' 
 Was  made  on  Earth  by  this  whole  company; 
 Father  and  Mjther  for  their  Daughter  Tung, 
 The  Children  which  about  their  Mother  hung 
 Like  faireft  duflers  of  the  fruitful!  Vine, 
 Sing  all  with  angelick,  fweet  voice  devine; 
 Lo  all  her  Kindred  and  her  Servants  fing, 
 And  ev*n  Dame  Eccho  feem'd  from  Heaven  to  ring 
 But 'twas  not  Eccho,  but  fwcet  Angels  voice, 
 That  for  this  Dames  deliv'rance  did  rejoyce. 
 And  now  my  Mufe,  the  Reader  only  ftays. 
 To  fing  one  dity  of  this  ftories  praife. 
 Hark  all  chaft  Ladies ,  all  juft  Judges  hear, 
 Both  old  and  young  unto  my  words  give  ear. 
 Let  them  like  dew  upon  their  hearcsdiftill. 
 And  iilver  drops  which  heavens  on  Medows  fpill; 
 Joachim^  -tifan^  Helchi  with  me  fing, 
 The  glorious  bounty  ot  the  righteous  King;    (voice. 
 And  babes  who  Icarce  havelearnM  to  tune  your 
 Yea,  fuck  lings  in  his  Noble  ftrengrh  rejoyce; 
 He,to  whom  carft  you  lifted  up  your  eys. 
 Now  hears  your  groans,  and  liflens  to  your  cries, 
 And  you  delivers  from  Bears  cruel  paws, 
 The  Lions  throat,  and  Crocodiles  foul  jaws; 
 He  in  all  ages  pafl:  hath  favM  the  Jufl-, 
 And  thofe  that  put  in  him  their  hope  and  trufl, 
 But  never  plainer  have  you  heard  or  read  , 
 Than  here  his  providence  difcovered. 
 Stifanna  chaft  to  luliice  I  compare. 
 The  Elders  two  corrupted  Judges  are  , 
 Who  feek  for  pleafure,  favour,  gain,  ambition. 
 Her  to  corrupt,  but  to  their  own  perdition. 
 Judges  corrupt,  when  you  this  ilory  hear. 
 At  Gods  juft  vengeance  tremble,  quake,  and  fearj 
 And  judging  ot;  <  rs  for  the  like  offence. 
 Condemn  ygurbwc  loul,  guilty  Confcience. 
 
 And 
 
The  fourh  Book  qfSufanna .  4 j  ] 
 
 \nd  think  not  when  you  find  your  fclves  unjuft, 
 
 >uch  punifliment  is  only  due  for  luft; 
 
 A^ho  for  ambition,  favour,  fear  or  gain, 
 
 Oo  ludge  unjuftly    merit  equal  pain. 
 
 ^ou  that  projed  to  prove  by  Witneffes  ^ 
 
 Things  falfe,  for  gain,  or  for  malicioufnefs, 
 
 Lo  here  your  fate  in  this  example  fee, 
 
 Your  teftimonics  never  (hall  agree. 
 
 Old  Ictchers  that  in  beaftly  luft  delight, 
 
 See  here  your  deeds  of  darknefs  brought  to  light; 
 
 Who  doth  from  Heav*n  your  fecret  (ins  behold. 
 
 Will  one  day  to  your  fhame,  them  all  unfold. 
 
 Judges  and  people  diligently  try 
 
 The  truth,  before  you  one  condemn  to  die , 
 
 For  fome  for  malice,  forae  will  fwear  for  gain, 
 
 Of  envy  and  ambition  fome  will  ftrainj 
 
 When  as  you  fee  the  accufers  violent, 
 
 And  offer  Oath  to  prove  their  own  intent. 
 
 Though  it  may  fcera  them  httle  to  concern , 
 
 Yet  wariiy,  before  you  judge,  difcern. 
 
 Chaft  Dames  1  who  rather  had  endure  the  (harae. 
 
 Than  privily  your  Confciences  to  blame. 
 
 Wait  on  the  Lord,  and  in  his  laws  4elight, 
 
 So  he  will  bring  all  wickednefs  to  light; 
 
 Whilft  S^fan-likQ  your  innocence  (hall  (hine. 
 
 And  be  commended  to  fucceeding  time; 
 
 Henceforth  let  all  the  Ladies  that  live  chaft^ 
 
 Be  with  the  Title  o^  S^fannas  grac'd  - 
 So  far  as  Ifaacks  kdi  the  Scepter  fways, 
 
 And  Phnebpu  doth  divide  the  nights  from  days, 
 
 So  far  (hall  honour'd  be  chad  5;//4»;  name , 
 
 And  all  chaft  Dames  (hall  glory  in  the  (ame; 
 
 And  when  as  Witneffes  do  difagree. 
 
 Judges  (hall  praifc  her  honour'd  chaftity* 
 
 And  Daniei;  prudent  diligence  admire, 
 
 And  by  his  pattern,  crut  the  t.  ucli  enquire. 
 
44  The  fourth  Book  o/Sufanna. 
 
 In  this  (he  fuflfers  like  the  Holy  One^ 
 MaA  14.  ^^\^Q  though  he  never  ill  had  thought  or  done. 
 Yet  was  accusM  for  curfed  Blafphemie, 
 But  never  could  the  witnefTes  agree; 
 Lo  wicked  FiUt  like  thcfe  Elders  ftands, 
 Waftiing  before  juft  Judge,  his  guilty  hands, 
 But  nothing  but  Hels  Lake  (hall  wafh  from  thence. 
 That  guiltlefs  blood,  the  blood  of  innocence. 
 In  thefe  two  wicked  Judges  I  do  fee^ 
 The  Devill  and  the  World  accufing  me, 
 Whofe  malice  futely  had  me  overcome , 
 Had  not  the  Prophet  to  my  refcue  corner 
 I  fee  in  Daniel^  fitting  on  the  Throne, 
 A  truerefemblancc  of  that  Holj  One , 
 Who  though  he  all  things  paft  as  prefent  knows. 
 By  Spirit  which  the  truth  to  Daniel  fhows, 
 Yet  by  difcufling  will  make  all  things  clear. 
 That  Men  and  Angels  which  his  Doom  do  hear. 
 May  fecond  it  with  final  approbation. 
 The  jufts  reward,  and  wickeds  condemnation. 
 Go  on,  brave  Daniel^  in  doing  right. 
 And  thou  (halt  favour  find  in  Princes  fight, 
 Ccn,4i.  C>r  «f  fuccccds  in  Perfian  Monarchy, 
 40.  ^^  VVho  thee  (hall  raife  to  high  Authority, 
 
 And  like  wife  hfe^h  place  thee  next  his  Throne, 
 He  ^gyft^  thou  (halt  Perfia  rule  alone. 
 
 I 
 
 NdU  thy.  Poems  thou  dufl  mndrous  welly 
 But  thy  Suknna  cloth  them  all excelL 
 
 FINJSi  ^ 
 
rOSEPH, 
 
 PHARAOHS 
 
 FAVORITE; 
 
 ECCLUS.39.  1,4. 
 
 He  only  that  applieib  his  mir/d  to  the  Lavp  of  the  mojl 
 High  5  d/id  is  occupied  in  the  Meditation  there-- 
 0/^3  jhallferze  among  Great  Men^  and  appear  be- 
 fore the  Prince, 
 
 L0  3\C:pG^, 
 
 Printed  for  <iJ*  %^  i<^  «^  4. 
 
The  Firft  Book: 
 
 lOSEPH- 
 
 Ofhim^  rpbom  God  hj  Brethrens  envjfent 
 Trom  Canaan  to  iEgypt,  to  prevent 
 Great  dearth^  I  Sing-^  thoft  that  did'fi  hmpretfS^^ 
 In  all  his  travels^  me  in  mine  iirefl^ 
 
 Ow  dwelt  the  holy  Patriarch  Ifraei 
 At  reft,in  Canaan  in  his  Fathers  celL 
 For  Efan  now  did  in  Mount  Seir 
 
 reign, 
 One  Country  could  not  all  thcl? 
 flocks  fuflain, 
 And  having  many  ftorms  and  dangers  pafl", 
 Now  hop'd  in  quiet  to  have  liv*d  ac  iafl:, 
 Freed  from  his  Brothers  hate  and  menacing, 
 From  LahansoM^  gripes  and  coveting; 
 His  tears  for  iofs  of  Rachel  now  are  dri'd. 
 For  Din(i*s  Rape  and  Simeor*s  homicide; 
 His  Sons  abroad  in  peace  their  flocks  do  tend,' 
 l^f^pb  at  home  his  Father  doth  attend; 
 
 Mm  I  Wheo 
 
Thefrfl  Book  qflofcph. 
 
 When  lo  1  an  cnvions  Spirit  (which  did  read 
 In  holy  I Mcoif,  /faackj  [ivomisd  feed, 
 Which  he  to  come  of  lofeph  moft  did  fear, 
 Becaufe  he  to  his  Father  was  fo  dear  ) 
 One  day  amongft  the  Sons  of  God  appeared 
 Before  the  Lord,  defiring  to  be  heard  , 
 And  thus  began.  Dread  Thunderer ,  be  jufl", 
 Haft  thou  net  rais'd  up  finfuU  man  from  duft, 
 To  make  thole  Heav'nly  Manfio/ts-i  ay  his  own. 
 For  which  thou  Angels  in  thy  wrath  haft  thrown. 
 And  damn'd  ?  yet  we  but  once  did  thee  difpleafe. 
 But  he  offends  each  hour,  yet  h>es  at  eafe; 
 Jacob  in  ifaacks  Tents  doth  quiet  live , 
 As  with  his  BUJfmg  he  him  Peace  did  give ; 
 And  though  by  thy  Decree  man  ought  attain 
 To  joys  of  Heav'n,  by  forrow,  care,  and  pain. 
 To  him  thou  fo  benign  and  gracious  art. 
 He  fees  the  Plcafurcs,  never  feels  the  Smart; 
 So  as  it  feems  *tis  thy  determination, 
 To  make  bafe  Man  for  Blifs^  Us  for  Dammtton^ 
 How  haft  thou  bleffed  him  on  ev'ry  fide? 
 His  Children  many ,  his  PoffefiiOLS  wide ; 
 His  flocks  abound  and  cover  all  the  Land, 
 So  thou  doft  blefs  all  works  that  pafs  his  hand; 
 Well  may  he  ferve  thee  for  fo  great!  reward, 
 But  touch  him,  thou  (halt  fee  his  flight  regard, 
 Vex  thou  but  him,  or  any  ot  his  race. 
 And  he  will  thee  blafpheme  unto  thy  face. 
 When  thus  rh* Almighty  ^  Say  thou  what  thou  can, 
 Jacob's  a  maahlefSj  juft,  and  pcrfeA  man. 
 Who  feareth  God, doth  good,  efcheweth  ill. 
 Try  him,  or  his,  fo  thou  no  blood  doft  fpilU 
 Thus  now  had  Satan  his  dcflres  attain*d. 
 By  Jacob's  Aiafcl  till  that  time  reftrain'd; 
 -And  fince  for  blood  lie  could  not  get  permiffioilj 
 He  privily  fows  Envy  and  Sedition, 
 
 Whic 
 
Thefirft  Boo^^  ef  lofepb. 
 
 Which  make  oft  greater  rents  in  Church  and  StatcJ 
 
 Than  open  enmity  and  known  debate; 
 
 SimcoK  and  Levi^  once  his  inftruments 
 
 Ormurther,undercov€r*dfalfe  intents. 
 
 With  the  nvo  handmaids  Sons,  (hall  kindle  hate^ 
 
 And  Envy,  for  to  overthrow  the  flatc 
 
 Of  iimple  Jofeph,  who  in  honeft  fort. 
 
 To  7/ 1(?/  brought  his  Brethrens  ill  report^ 
 
 And  in  plain  meaning  did  to  them  unfold 
 
 His  dreams  by  day,which  God  by  night  had  told; 
 
 Which  envioufly  this  Sp*rit€  interpreting^ 
 
 As  if  he  of  his  Bret '^r en  would  be  King; 
 
 And  for  becaufe  he  was  to  f<«<^o^  dear. 
 
 And  tales  to  him,  as  they  fufped^  did  bear. 
 
 He  by  their  malice  labours  cunningly 
 
 To  ruine  Ucob^^n^  his  Tamilj 
 
 In  Jofe^hs  lofs;  Thus  did  the  Enviofn  TleTii 
 
 Projed  dcftrudion,  God,  a  bleilcd  end. 
 
 Little  hereof  thought  good  old  Jacobs  when 
 
 He  him  to  Sichem  to  his  Brethtren 
 
 Doth  fend,  where  wandring,  he  at  laft  was  told^ 
 
 That  they  at  DAh^rt  paftured  their  fold. 
 
 On  fide  of  Hill  which  Sa^  with  cheaniill  eys. 
 
 Salutes,  and  comforts  foon  as  he  dothrife. 
 
 Under  a  ftacely  Oak,  whofe  arras  difpread. 
 
 From  Sun  'and  Rain  all  under  (heltercd. 
 
 Near  faireft  Medows  and  the  River  fide, 
 
 Thefe  Brethren  with  their  Flocks  in  Tents  abided 
 
 More  healthfull,pleafant, fruitful!,  fpacious  plain^ 
 
 Was  not  in  Candan  to  be  feen  again;  (leafure* 
 
 Where  whilft  their  Flocks  do  feed,  they  have  good 
 
 To  leap, dance,  caroll,  flecp,and  i,  kc  their  plcafurc; 
 
 And  they  that  feel  within  diviner  rrctlons. 
 
 In  private  (hades  may  fall  to  their  devotions. 
 
 And  imitate  the  plumed  heav*o!y  Qtiire3 
 
 Who  in  ffvcet  notes  Gods  goodnefs  do  admire,^ 
 
 ^  Mraj  Hither 
 
71:16  fir^  Book  of  lofcph. 
 
 Hither  comes  J'^feph^  where  he  firft  admires 
 The  places  fertilenefs,  and  fair  attires. 
 For  his  own  Coat,  aii  p^irty- coloured, 
 SeemM  nought  to  that  the  ground  apparalled: 
 But  his  ten  Brethren  him  no  fooncr  fpie, 
 But  lo  I  here  comes  the  Dreamer ^zW  do  cry. 
 Come  let  us  kill,  and  in  ibme  pit  him  caft. 
 Then  fee  how  all  his  Dreams  will  prove  at  lafi-j 
 And  when  our  Father  mifleth  him,  wee'l  lay. 
 Some  wicked  Bead  devourM  him  on  the  way; 
 And  had  not  Providenct  with-held  their  knife 
 By^«^r»,  they  then  taken  had  his  life. 
 Full  glad  to  fee  his  Brethren  was  the  Child, 
 And  with  a  pleafing  face  upon  them  fmil'd^ 
 As  little  thinking  by  them  to  be  fold. 
 As  they  at  Nile  his  glory  to  behold. 
 As  cruel  Cain  againft  his  Brother  rofe, 
 When  nothing  lefs  good  AhelAiA  fuppofe^ 
 And  as  fierce  Simeon  came  mofl:  cruelly 
 On  Sichem  looking  for  affinity ; 
 So  Jacobs  Sons  unWares  on  Jofevh  run, 
 Who  kindly  to  falute  them  then  did  come* 
 One  bends  his  fifl-,  another  draws  his  knife. 
 Another  fwears  he'l  tear  from  him  his  life ; 
 Wretch  I  faith  another,  thou  com'fl:  for  a  fpy. 
 That  thou  returning  home  mav'ft  tell  a  ly, 
 And  us  difgrace  in  our  old  Fathers  ear. 
 And  be  alone  his  joy  and  darling  dear ; 
 Lo,  faith  another,  we  our  (heaves  muft  bring, 
 And  do  to.theeobeifance  as  our  King; 
 Onef  faith,  ihou  art  the  Sun,  wc  Stars  of  night, 
 And  rm&  yll  bow,  whence  we  do  borrow  light; 
 Then  dripping  off  his  party-colour*d  Coat, 
 They  blindfold  him,  and  on  his  fiiolder  fmote, 
 And  faid,  fince  thou  divin  ft  and  dream'ft  fo  right, 
 Reckon  now  which  of  14s  thee  laft  did  fraite. 
 
 Whiia 
 
ThefirfiBookoflokph:  1 
 
 Whilft  Lamb-like  he  before  the  (hearer  lieij 
 Mute  and  araazM,  yet  thus  at  laft  replies. 
 
 Ah  Brethren  dear,  though  now  too  late^  I  prove 
 The  peril's  not  fo  great  in  Hatg  as  Lo'z^e; 
 Catfi  mortal  hate  did  to  his  Brother  bear,  ; 
 
 For  that  his  ofifrings  acceptable  wcrej 
 My  Father  hardly  fcap't  mine  Uf^cies  knife^ 
 Becaufe  be  was  ^<f^^rr^'s  deareft  life; 
 So  did  you  and  your  Mother  mine  defpife , 
 Becaufe  fhc  gracious  was  in  Jacoh  eys; 
 Now  hira,  that  never  did  nor  thought  yoa  iH^ 
 Becaufe  my  Father  loves  me, you  will  ktli^ 
 To  him  once,  I  confefs,  I  did  relate 
 An  ill  report  I  heard,  not  for  leaft  hate 
 Or  malice  that  my  Brethren  I  did  bear. 
 But  that  you  knowing  it,  might  better  cfear; 
 That  which  my  Father  did  but  folly  deem^ 
 To  tell  mine  idle  dreams,  will  you  eftecm     ^ 
 It  capital  ?  oh  Brethren  de^r, forbear. 
 If  not  for  lof  e  or  pity, yet  for  fear 
 Of  vengeance,  which  will  follow  fratricide^ 
 Cains  Curfe  (hall  ever  on  that  houfe  shldf^ 
 If  all  confent  your  brother  here  to  flay , 
 Jacoif  hath  loft  eleven  Sones  in  one  day^ 
 And  whence  (hall  then  that  bleiTed  one  proceed^ 
 God  promised  in  our  Father  If^^el^s  feed  ? 
 That  curfcd  rt^w?,  from  whom  t!iefe  Nadoiis  come 
 Which  here  inhabit,  never  yet  have  done 
 So  foul  a  fin;  nor  Nimvedt  cruel  Sw')rdj 
 Was  ere  in  his  own  Brothers  blood  engorM; 
 A  brothers  fight  rough  Efm's  fury  chafes. 
 And  makes  him  fall  to  kifTes  and  embraces » 
 Look  on  my  youth,  not  half  fo  loth  to  Ai^^ 
 As  to  be  flain  by  Brethrens  cruelty; 
 Look  on  my  innocence,  behold  ray  tears, 
 Refpeft  your  and  my  Fathers  grayer  hairs, 
 
 Mm  4  ^Vf^o 
 
Thefiyfi  Book  of  loicph. 
 
 Who  cannot  but  with  grief  and  forrow  die,' 
 
 For  lofs  of  me  by  Brethrem  Bmchery. 
 
 Oh  !  never  hope  this  murther  to  conceal. 
 
 For  though  you  your  own  lips  (hould  all  up  fcal, 
 
 Thefe  beafls,(lones,trces,ray  blood  to  heav'n  will  cr^^  \ 
 
 For  vengeance,  on  this  bloody  Felony;  *  ^ 
 
 And  that  which  now  you  think  in  fecret  done. 
 
 Shall  be  made  plain  and  clearer  than  the  Sun^ 
 
 Now  Ifaack^  like  I  lie  under  youi:  knife. 
 
 And  willingly  as  he,  could  leave  my  lite, 
 
 Were  I  perfwaded 'twere  the  Hea.vnlj'^iH^ 
 
 But  herein  Sath^ns  fftrpo[e  you  fulfill, 
 
 And  your  malicious  envy  fatisfie , 
 
 But  Lord  accept  me  as  I  guiltlefs  die. 
 
 Thefe  words  proceeding  from  a  foul  oppreft 
 
 With  anguifh,  wrought  fo  in  his  Brethrens  breft. 
 
 That  though  they  willingly  all  wifh  him  flain. 
 
 Yet  each  from  blood-fhed  would  his  hands  retain* 
 
 Wherefore  they  him  into  a  dry  pit  caft. 
 
 With  cold  and  hunger  there  to  pine  and  wafl:> 
 
 And  fudderily  they  fit  them  down  to  eat , 
 
 ISIe*r  pitying  Jofi^ph  that  muft  ftarve  for  meat. 
 
 So  have  !  feen  ten  Hounds  oi bloody  kj^d^ 
 
 W'iC  'Oiig  have  chas'd,  to  kill  the  harmlefs  Hindj 
 
 Wiicnthey  have  lodg'd  her  in  the  hunters  gin. 
 
 Whence  never  oneefcapes,  ifenter'd  in, 
 
 Turn  u  the  Lodge,  where  for  their  labours  meed, 
 
 They  on  the  heart  and  bleeding  intrails  feed. 
 
 Poor  J'^feph  had  thy  Brethren  now  thee  flain, 
 
 Thou  long  fincc  had'Il:  been  rid  out  of  thy  pain; 
 
 B'l:  whilfl:  thou  feek'ft  by  tears  thy  life  to  fave, 
 
 T'- junow  art  buried  quick  within  thy  grave; 
 
 W  at  canfl:  thou  look  for  in  this  Dungeon  vaft , 
 
 I^^T  even  with  cold  and  hunger  here  to  waft? 
 
 Deprived  of  Suns  moil  comfortable  light, 
 
 ^ni  eviil  Sv'rlts  with  horror  thee  to  fright, 
 
 Yet 
 
Thefirfi  Book  of  lokph.  Jr 
 
 et  as  a  favour  this  was  done  to  thee, 
 hfu  are  the  ^ickeds  Mercies  crtieltie* 
 ut  lo  !the  Child  to  heav'n  cries  from  the  pit^ 
 nd  doth  to  righteous  Judge  his  cau(c  commit; 
 ord  thou  doft  know  how  innocent  I  die, 
 le  fave,  and  pardon  their  iniquity, 
 s  when  fierce  CAin  (  out  of  bafe  envying^ 
 hat  God  (hould  beft  accept  his  offering  ) 
 ad  Abel  (lain,  his  blood  tb  heav'n  did  cry, 
 0  this  Childs  grievous  Lamentations  fly 
 ito  Gods  ears,  who  fends  the  I(hmaelit€S^ 
 irft  perfecutors  of  the  Ifraelites^ 
 rom  Brethrens  malice  ^o/r/)^  to  fet  freej 
 nd  fave  his  Life,  though  loie  bis  Liberty} 
 0  he  that  late  cfcaped  being  flain, 
 ;  raifed  up  out  of  the  pit  again, 
 /horn  to  be  rid  of,  and  for  prefent  pay, 
 is  Brethren  fell  to  be  convcy*d  away. 
 And  now  large  (hadows  from  the  Moo ntains  fell; 
 nd  Heav'n  with  his  black  mantle  covers  all, 
 hoehus  for  refl  in  Sea  his  Steeds  beflows, 
 nd  from  her  Sea  of  reft  the  Night  arofe; 
 /hen  Jacobs  Sons  amongft  therafclvcs  devifc 
 0  cover  their  inhuman  cruelties; 
 nd  as  we  ever  fee  that  one  foul  ^m 
 egets  another,  to  lie  hidden  in; 
 s  fome  their  foul  Adnlterj  to  hide, 
 av£  firfl  Us'd  Drunkenyjefs^  then  Homicide- 
 >  tbefe  unfuftly  ^gainft  their  Fathers  will, 
 >nc  of  the  Kids  then  in  his  Flock  do  kill, 
 nd  dipping  in  his  blood  the  colour'd  Coat 
 ►f  Jofephy  it  unto  their  Father  brought, 
 nd  fay,  Nov/  fee  good  Father  doft  thou  know, 
 /hethcr  t  Iiis  be  chy  Jofephs  Coat  or  no  > 
 s  Turtle  dear,  when  feeking  for  her  love, 
 ic  finds  at  £v  n  the  Feathers  of  a  Dove, 
 
^^  Thefirft  Book  o/Iofcpb; 
 
 BegoarM  with  blood,  late  party-€olour*d  gayi 
 
 Concluding  now  her  mate  hath  been  the  prey 
 
 Of  cruel  Hawk,  fends  out  moft  piteous  cries> 
 
 And  inthofc  deareft  blooded  Feathers  dies; 
 
 So  good  old  /frael^  whofe  diramer  fight 
 
 Could  t'carcc  difcern  of  colours  by  the  nighty 
 
 Vet  fee  i  ng  Jojlsph^s  Coat  begoared  red , 
 
 VV^hich  lately  was  fo  finely  coloured. 
 
 For  whom,  though  long  he  look*d,  and  did  enquin 
 
 Yet  faw,  nor  heard  leaft  news  oi  his  retire, 
 
 Cries  out,  'tis  jfr/ephs  Coat  with  blood  defil'd , 
 
 Some  wicked  beaft  devoured  hath  the  Child; 
 
 [  fent  him  out  alone  unwittingly, 
 
 And  therefore  guilty  of  the  cruelty. 
 
 So  grievous  were  his  groans  and  lamentation. 
 
 They  turn  to  forrow  all  his  habitation, 
 
 ^nd  though  his  Sons  and  Daughters  all  arife 
 
 To  comfort  him,  the  beft  they  can  device , 
 
 f «tilill  thegood  old  man  doth  groan  and  cry^ 
 
 fofeph  is  loft,  I  in  his  Coat  wili  die; 
 
 He  with  wild  Beads  is  into  peeces  torn, 
 
 r\  fooner  ceale  to  live ,  than  ceafe  to  mourn. 
 
 Father  Ikid  Z)i»/e  then,  ch'unlucky  Maid^ 
 Why  fhould  you  without  caufe  be  thus  difmaid  ? 
 Before  times  I  have  often  heard  you  fay , 
 Gods  Angel  you  conduded  in  your  way 
 From  hence  ev*ii  unto  the  Affyrian  plain. 
 And  thence  from  Lalxiti^  brought  you  home  again* 
 Oh  why  fhould  you  defpair  then  thus  and  fear. 
 As  God  of  yours  had  not  as  great  a  care? 
 What  becaufe  hear  a  bloody  coat  you  fee, 
 Muft  it  be  Ipfephs  needs  ?  or  if  it  be. 
 He  may,  whilft  he  fromcruel Beafts did  fly, 
 Forfake  his  Coat  to  fcape  more  fpeedily^ 
 He  that  this  Coat  found  k)ofe  upon  the  ground, 
 Not  any  figuof  raurthering  him  found. 
 
Thefrft  Book  of  lokph. 
 
 lot  fonnd  he  either  hand^,  head,  foot,  or  lone^ 
 )niy  this  bloody  Coat  lay  all  alone; 
 •looded  it  feems  with  jaws  of  cruel  Beaft , 
 Vhich  on  fome  other  prey  had  made  his  feaft*. 
 Thus  can  the  whole  to  fick  good  Counfel  give. 
 And  eafier  tis  to  teach  well,  than  to  live. 
 
 But  Ruhn^  ludah^  all  his  Sons  may  rife, 
 ^nd  daughters  all  to  comfort  him  devife, 
 '^fle  rends  his  cloaths ,  puts  fackcloath  on  his  loins, 
 ^nd  for  his  lofeph  long  time  weeps  and  pines, 
 \nd  mourning  will  go  down  unto  his.Grave 
 To  Iffeph^  whom  he  here  (hall  never  have. 
 V!ean  while  to  Nile  the  Midian  Merchants  hie» 
 Laden  with  Balm,  with  Mirrhe,  and  Spicerie  , 
 When  lofefh;9i\\om  if  they  could  truly  prize, 
 Was  far  more  worth  than  all  their  Merchandize  J 
 Did  bondage  bafe  unto  his  noble  mind. 
 More  bitter  than  death  to  his  body  findj 
 But  having  none  to  whom  to  make  his  mone. 
 Goes  fighing,  fobbing  to  hirafelfalone^^ : 
 Untill  a  Merchant  willing  him  to  chcar'^r^'^D; 
 That  he  might  fairer  look,  and  fell  more  Sear, 
 
 nquireth  of  his  Parents  and  his  kind. 
 To  put  more  peniive  thoughts  out  of  his  miftd 
 
 Know,  iaith  the  gentle  Child,  my  Parents  came 
 From  Hehr^  whence  we  H€bre\^j  havcovirs  name. 
 The  fourth  from  S^em^  fiirfl:  of  that  bkffed  fce<i, 
 Th'Almighty  chofe  mankind  again  to  breeds 
 My  Father  iaceh  who  the  Birth- right  bouglit 
 OiEfaH^xhzt  Gods  Blefiingfet  at  nought, 
 W^s  I/a^ckj  Son,  ev*n  Abrams  bleflcd  leed, 
 In  whom  all  Nations  happinefs  may  read; 
 My  Mother  Rachsl^  now  depriv'd  of  life. 
 Was  Jfraclsfvc^  Love^  but  fecond  Wife-, 
 Lahan  both  Sof^  and  Fathsr  in  one  night 
 Deceived)  of 's  Wife  him,  roe  of  my  BiHthrtght} 
 
 For 
 
i'S  Thefirft  Book  of  lofeph  J 
 
 For  when  his  thoughts  in  Nuptial  bed  embrace 
 My  Mother  Rackety  Leah*&  in  her  place; 
 Whereby  ray  Brethren  me  in  years  furpafs. 
 But  I  them  in  my  Fathers  L'tve  and  Graces 
 For  envy  hereof,  lo  I  they  me  have  fold. 
 Thus  briefly  I  ray  State  to  you  have  told. 
 
 The  Children  of  the  Bond  woman  were  gla  d 
 They  one  now  Bound  of  the  Free  "Romans  had; 
 But  while  fuch  talk  raakes  fhorter  feem  the  hours. 
 Behold  they  now  may  fee  brave  Memphis  Towres, 
 Turrets  which  feem  to  dare  the  Starry  skies. 
 And  Temples  which  like  tops  of  Mountains  rife, 
 V^hok  Fanes  znA  Spires  z\\  gilt  with  radiant  gold 
 They  (hining  like  the  L^w/?/ of  heaven  behold^ 
 Which  often  with  refleding  fplendor  bright , 
 Seem  to  obfcure  Sols  cleareft  heav'nly  light. 
 
 When  thus  the  Lad^  Good  Mafters,  fo  muft  I 
 Now  call  yqu,  and  will  fervc  you  chearfuUy, 
 Tell  rae  what  glorious  Buildings  yonder  be. 
 Whole  like  in  Canaan  I  did  never  fee; 
 Which  feem,except  mine  eys  me  ranch  do  fail. 
 Like  to  a  City  that  on  Sea  doth  fail; 
 Or  Noahs  y^ri^which  Acting  on  the  Floud, 
 Preferv*d  all  kind  of  Creatures  with  their  food. 
 
 Boy,  faith  the  Merchant,  this  is  ^gyfts  Plain, 
 Where  never  yet  did  fall  a  drop  of  Rain; 
 The  waves  you  fee  are  fev*n-fold  headed  NHesl 
 Which  now  doth  overflow  the  richcft  Soils , 
 Whence  ever  Sd  by  his  all-quickning  heat, 
 Rais'd  Corn  and  Grafs  for  Man  ancf  Bead  to  cat; 
 There  where  you  fee  the  Flood  like  Seas  appear  ^ 
 Will  be  a  Harveft  twice  within  a  year; 
 Befides,  no  mortal  wight  could  ever  wifli, 
 Then*s  there  more  plenty  of  raoft  dainty  Fifli; 
 Ahram  the  Father  of  great  lihmael^ 
 (From  whom  our  Nation)  Famine  did  compel 
 
 Foi 
 
Thefirfl  Book  tf/Iofeph  J  'J  I 
 
 or  fuccour  to  defccnd  into  this  Land, 
 Vhere  he  is  faid  to  make  them  underftand 
 he  nature  of  the  higheft  Deitie , 
 orms,  Laws,  and  Natures  of  the  Starry  Skie, 
 knd  firft  them  taught  to  meafure  out  their  year 
 Jy  Suns  juft  courfe;  For  it  doth  plain  appear, 
 hat  they  till  then  the  Moon  did  meafure  by, 
 A^hich  makes  them  boafl  of  fuch  antiquity, 
 \nd  reckon  in  their  annual  computation, 
 rhoufands  of  years  before  the  Worlds  Creation; 
 3ut  though  he  gave  them  in  all  ^rts  diredion, 
 ifct  never  brought  they  one  to  fuch  perfedion. 
 Ks  that  we  call  Divine  ji/ironcmie; 
 For  in  this  Country  beft  they  might  dcfcrie 
 The  forms  and  Orders  of  the  Lamps  oi  Night , 
 Where  never  Clouds  obfcure  them  from  their  fight. 
 Rrft  in  Caldea  Abr^m  learn*d  this  skill , 
 i^nd  grew  fo  well  acquainted  with  Gods  will. 
 He  knew  all  things,  they  fay,  by  Revelation, 
 Paft,  prefent,  future,  from  the  Worlds  Creation,      ^ 
 Till  that  laft  minute  that  it  could  expire, 
 Which  as  by  Waters  crft,  (hall  be  by  Fire* 
 Indeed,  faith  lofefh^  I  have  heard  it  told, 
 The  firft  man  Ad^m  Propheci'd  of  old 
 The  Worlds  deftrudion  twice,  for  (ins  juft  hire. 
 The  one  by  JVAter^  th'othcr  by  the  Vtre ; 
 Setb  therefore  Adams  vScholar  and  his  Son, 
 Not  knowing  which  was  firft,  of  earth  and  ftone 
 Two  Pillars  bulk,  the  earth  againft  the  Fire, 
 The  ftone  to  ftand  Againft  Waters  raging  ire. 
 Where  y^rts^  which  long  experience  had  obfcrvedj 
 He  unto  future  ages  fair  prcferved. 
 The  earthen  Pillar  pcrifht  in  the  Flood  ,  ^ 
 
 The  Stone  the  Waters  violence  withftood; 
 Thefe  H^^^r  finding  after  publiihed 
 In  SiriA.  where  firft  learning  flourifhcd: 
 
II J  Theprjt  Book  of  loieph; 
 
 Till  Aham^who  herein  did  all  excel, 
 Came  doWn  to  ^^;/'^  and  as  you  do  tell,  ] 
 
 Converft  with  one  they  called  Mercury^  I 
 
 Whom,  with  theie  Arts^  he  taught  the  rayftery        | 
 Of  one  true  God- head,  and  the  Worlds  creation. 
 Who  read  the  fame  unto  their  neighbour  Nation; 
 Whence  now  they  are,  and  (hall  in  time  be  fpread 
 Through  all  the  Earthly  Globe  inhabited. 
 
 Thus  they  difcourfe,  as  if  they  would  foretel 
 O^Gentiles  all,  which  after  (hould  excel 
 In  Arts  and  Sciences^  which  now  difpread. 
 As  men,  through  all  the  Earth  on  which  we  tread^ 
 For  as  the  Earth  empeoplsd  was  below 
 By  yldam^  fo  all  Arts  and  Learning  floW 
 Firftfrom  the  Hehnws^  unto  ev'ry  Nation, 
 AsRhUs  and  Precepts  corac  by  obfervation: 
 But  now  the  Cities  Towers  obfcure  the  Skies, 
 And  make  them  hold  their  tongues, and  ufe  their  ey5» 
 The  fplendor  of  thofe  buildings  to  behold , 
 Where  they  the  fecond  time  good  Ufeph  fold- 
 
 ■S'  J!l/»-!iiJ 
 
 The  End  of  the  firft  Book  of  >p//^ 
 
 iJ«  ^1  II  I  I'  PjHH*  i"|i"ii"i"iil         "']..  ,  I 
 
 The 
 
n 
 
 The  Second  Book  of 
 fOSE'Pff. 
 
 NEver  did  Mam  more  lament  and  plain 
 For -4^^/,  by  his  cruel  Brother  flain, 
 Than  lacoh  mourn'd  for  faireft  Rachels  Stti^ 
 Nor  would  by  any  means  be  comforted  • 
 All  Day  the  Field  his  Lamentations  hears, 
 All  Night  his  Couch  he  watercth  with  his  tears, 
 And  if  leaft  flumber  clofe  his  blubbring  eys, 
 Him  thinks  he  fees  a  cruel  Bear  furprize 
 His  dearefl:  /ofcph^  crying  out  for  aid. 
 And  (larting  up  awakes  much  more  afraid; 
 His  Spirits  thus  fpent,  his  body  wearied 
 With  groans  and  toiling  up  and  down  his  Bed: 
 Lo  aged  Ifaack^^  who  had  long  been  blind 
 Of  *s  flcflily  eys,  but  yet  of  clearer  mind. 
 Comes  to  his  comfort,  being  thither  led 
 By  BeKJmift^  who  to  him  miniftred; 
 Long  flood  he  mute,  and  to  the  grievous  moans 
 Of  his  blift  laco^^tcchocd  with  groans, 
 T  ill's  heart  with  forrow  ready  now  to  break , 
 JVith  words  all  weight,  he  thus  begins  to  I'peak, 
 Dear  Son,  the  flaf  and  comfort  of  mine  age. 
 The  blefled  fruit   f  holy  Marriage, 
 Far  more  to  Af^,  than  to  thee  hfeph  dear. 
 Mine  only  Soft  by  Promife^  but  thou  here 
 Haft  Benjamin  ,  by  thy  beloved  Wife 
 Fair  Rachd^  whtllt  ihe  liv'd  thy  loy  and  life; 
 
 ■"  Not 
 
14  Thefecond  Bcok  oj  iolcph. 
 
 Not  that  I  loffph  dead  or  loft  do  fear,  ^ 
 
 God  that  of  me  and  v^^r^w  had  fucb  care,' 
 
 Hath  no  lefs  ofthee  and  thy  bleflcd  feed, 
 
 In  which  all  happinefs  is  promifedj 
 
 And  if  of  all ,  of  him  cfpeciaily 
 
 Who  is  the  chief  ofallthy  Family; 
 
 To  whom  the  5/4;2,the  Moort'^  and  Stars  rauftfaH, 
 
 Whofc  Sheaf  his  Brethrens  :>heAfs  muft  worfhip  allj 
 
 Of  thefe  two  Dreams  1  was  a  due  obferVer 
 
 And  read  thence  he  (hall  be  a  great  preferver, 
 
 A  figure  of  that  Saviour  great,  which  (hall 
 
 Himfelf  by  lofing  favc  himfclFand  all.. 
 
 Thus  was  I  once  ioft  to  my  Faithf^ll  Sire , 
 
 When  on  the  Alter  kindled  was  the  fire. 
 
 The  knife  was  ready  lift  up  by  his  hand  , 
 
 To  Sacrifife  my  Life  at  Gods  command ; 
 
 Thas  thou  as  loft,  for  more  than  thrice  feven  years^ 
 
 Bewail'd  wert  by  mine  and  Rebeccas  tears. 
 
 When  Efans  wrath  the.e  dravc  to  Syria  Plain, 
 
 But  God  Almighty  brought  thee  home  again; 
 
 And  I  prefage  before  the  revolution 
 
 Of  thrice  fev'n  years ,  God  will  the  whole  folution 
 
 Of  lofephs  Dreams  with  joy  to  thee  unfold. 
 
 Which  fhall  revive  thy  Spirit  then  being  old;    . 
 
 **  Before  great  Bleffings  God  doth  Crojfes  fend,, 
 
 *^  That  we  may  on  his  Providence  attend^ 
 
 *'  And  fee  the  riches  of  his  Grace  more  clear, 
 
 •*  Which  hardlier  here  obtained,  we  hold  more  dear. 
 
 Thus  Ifaach  doth  interpret  Vifions  dark, 
 
 As  great  Mathufelah  at  building  l\\'Ar({^ 
 
 Who  liv'd  untill  the  year  ofih'inmdatioff, 
 
 As  plain  appears  by  Ages  Computation; 
 
 Good //r<3^/ was  wonderfully  mov*d;  Z 
 
 Atfightofthofe  he  revcrenc'd  fo  and  lov'dj 
 His  B€>i]a.myi  but  newly  taught  to  ftride. 
 Of  his  blind  Grandfucs  ftcpi  then  being  guide,'  , 
 
 Boili 
 
The frcond  Bock  of  loieph.  '     ^^ 
 
 Both  which  feem*d  t\^o  good  y:^figeis  to  him  fcnt 
 
 From  heav'n  to  eafe  his  grief  and  difcontent ;  ^ 
 
 Wherefore  Toon  riling  on  his  weary  bed  ,  t 
 
 Having  his  Father  duly  honoured  i 
 
 He  anfwers  with  a  piteous  figh  and  groanj 
 
 lofeph  is  gone,  and  I  am  Jeft  alonej 
 
 Dear  Rachel's  firft  born,  whom  to  make  my  Wife, 
 
 I  was  a  Servant  beft  part  oi^  my  Hfc  ;  ' 
 
 After  we  had  been  married  fourteen  yeafs, 
 
 B'^'chel  and  I,  with  Prayers,  Vows,  and  Tears , 
 
 Bcgg'd  him  of  God  ;  then  did  my  years  expire. 
 
 Which  Lahan  For  my  two  Wives  me  did  hire ; 
 
 One  Daughter  and  ten  Sons  I  had  before  , 
 
 By  Le.-.h  iev'n,  and  by  ray  Handmaids  four, 
 
 But  I  my  Jofeph  prizM  them  all  above  , 
 
 As  I  his  Mother  more  than  theirs  did  love ; 
 
 And  though  I  Churlifti  did  mine  U^cle  find 
 
 In  many  chings^herein  he  was  raofi"  kind  , 
 
 To  pay  me  Wages  ere  my  work  was  done , 
 
 For  I  had  Rachel  ere  that  1  begun         ^, 
 
 My  firft  years  Service,  whereby  kw'vi  years  fcem*d 
 
 But  a  few  days,  foT  her  love  cfteem'd. 
 
 No  man  had  ever  more  experience 
 
 Than  I  of  Gods  good  Grace  and  Providence^ 
 
 When  I  was  firft  to  Padan  Ar  m  fent , 
 
 1  only  with  my  Staff  forth  from  thee  went 
 
 To  Bethel^  where  th'Almighty  Lord  to  mc 
 
 Appeared  by  Villon,  promilingtobe 
 
 My  God,  and  to  my  Seed  the  Land  to  givi6 
 
 Whereon  I  flept ,    which  firmly  1  believe;    ' 
 
 Then  did  I  vow  ,   fo  he  would  me  proted 
 
 Safe  in  my  Journey,  and  my  ways  dired. 
 
 Giving  me  Bread  to  eat ,  and  Gloathes  to  wear. 
 
 The  Tenth  of  all  I  had,  to  offer  there ; 
 
 God  gave  my  asking ,  and  abundance  more, 
 
 So  as  I  thence  re tiUT/d  with  ftock  and  ftore  i 
 
 ISl'n  A^d 
 
j^  '        7lje  feco/id  Book  of  lok'ph. 
 
 And  though  I  long  forbarc  my  Vow  to  pay,  ■ 
 
 God  never  me  forgot  unto  this  day. 
 
 I  confident,  beyond  all  hope  can  prove     • 
 
 I  him  fhall  fee  again  whom  fo  I  love. 
 
 At  the  lafl:  day ;  till  then  he*s  dead  and  gone, 
 
 8^0  hope  before  of  Refurredion; 
 
 This  is  his  coloured  Coat ,  begorcd  red 
 
 By  jaws  of  Beads ,  which  on  his  Carkafs  kd; 
 
 Were  I  now  blind,  1  happy  were,  then  could 
 
 I  not  this  difmal  fpedaclc  behold. 
 
 But  if,  faith  Ifaack^^  he  hath  chang'd  his  Tent 
 For  heavenly  home,  why  fhould  you  thus  lament^ 
 As  without  hope  ?  fince  now  he  is  at  reft  , 
 Let  likewife  the  remembrance  of  him  reft; 
 Weep  you,  becaufe  your  lofs  turns  to  his  gain? 
 Your  mourning  cannot  bring  him  back  again; 
 *'  God,  our  chief  comforts  oft  from  us  doth  rend, 
 *'  Left  we  too  mueh  on  outward  means  depend; 
 3t  may  be,  you  your  love  fo  on  him  fct. 
 You  thereby  did  your  love  to  God  forget , 
 Then*s  lufticc  juftly  him  from  you  hath  rent , 
 And  Mercy  gives  you  caufe  now  to  repent. 
 But  whether  lofepk  living  be,  or  dead, 
 Let  little  Benjamin  ftand  in  his  ftead  ; 
 What  your  aflftdion  fo  to  him  inclined. 
 You  ev*n  the  fame  in  Benjamin  (hall  findj 
 X^^  Rachel  both  begot  in  marriage  bed, 
 Only  this  laft  (he  never  fuckeled, 
 For  in  the  pains  of  Birch  fhe  left  her  life. 
 Thus  he  a  tender  Nurie  loft,  thou  a  Wife. 
 
 This  Ifaackj  rubbing  on  an  antient  fore,  x-j 
 
 Made  Jfrael  hunentmore  than  before; 
 So  as  the  Child,  who  dill  was  ftanding  by, 
 To  hCai*  fuch  mourning,  weeps  for  company; 
 And  as  a  Parrrt,  newly  taught  to  prate  , 
 The  voice  doch  of  another  imitate, 
 
 "  So 
 
The  [econd  Book  of  \okr>h.  IZ 
 
 So  cries  the  Boy,  good  Father ,  jffCephs  gonei 
 And  I  al^s !  here  lelf  am  ai«  alone  ;  - 
 
 *  Tis  this  fine  coloured  Co.^t  he  wont  to  wear, 
 Good  Father  let  us  it  to  jojepf^  Sear, 
 (For  chat  was  eve**  under  i'acfiips  arm) 
 He  may  have  need  thereof  to  keep  him  warm. 
 Theie  pleafant  realons  from  the  wittie  Childj 
 Old  lacoifofhis  forrows  fo  bcguird , 
 He  was  content  a  while  his  heart  to  eafe. 
 The  better  this  his  dearcft  Boy  to  plcafe; 
 And  fince  he  h/eph  thought  dead,  and  at  red. 
 By  little  he  his  Lamentations  ceaft. 
 But  ever  little  Benjamin  would  cry , 
 To  let  him  go  to  Jofcfh  by  and  by. 
 
 My  Boy,  Ikith  Jaco^ yi^ih^t  thou  wilC  go 
 to  fofeph^  thou  muft  firfl  as  Jofeph  do, 
 Be  a  good  Boy,  ferve  God,  cby  prayers  fay 
 At  Morn,  at  Night ,  and  oftentimes  a  day; 
 All  lying ,  fwearing ,  idle  talk  forbear. 
 Duly  obey  and  ferve  thy  Parents  dear. 
 To  any,    nor  of  any  fpeak  leaft  ill. 
 And  always  be  obedient  to  Gods  will; 
 Tor  fo  did  Jofeph,  therefore  I  had  ^hcn 
 Him  this  finecolour'd  Coat,  but  now  in  heav^n^ 
 He  is  moft  glorioufly  by  God  arraid, 
 And  fees  all  joys  and  pleafures  can  be  faid. 
 
 By  this  the  Boy  to  imitate  grows  fain, 
 Jcfeph  in  all,  for  hope  of  Jofepfjs  gain. 
 If  Jaco^  any  thing  would  have  him  do , 
 Say  /sfeph  did  it ,  he  would  do  it  too. 
 If  he  from  any  ill  would  him  retain. 
 Say  loffph  would  not  do*t,he  would  refrain,' 
 All  which  he  fo  well  Ordered,  that  in  fine. 
 The  Boy  was  meafur'd  all  by  Jofephs  line. 
 And  Jacob  fo  delighted  therewithal, 
 y^  kaves  his  couch,  and  comes  down  to  the  hall, 
 
 N  n  2  Where- 
 
J 8  Thefeco/id  Book  0/  lofcph- 
 
 Where  ever  Benjamin  his  darling  dear. 
 
 Was  ready  with  his  prading  hira  to  chcar , 
 
 Till  in  the  end  his  love  fo  on  him  fet , 
 
 Makes  him  all  grief  for  lofeph's  lofs  forget; 
 
 And  pleafure  take  in  Benjamin  now  more  j 
 
 Than  he  in  Io[eph  ever  did  before. 
 
 So  doth  one  for  his  Wife  oft  weep  and  cry, 
 
 As,  after  her,  he  would  not  live  but  die , 
 
 Forbears  his  meat ,  till  time  of  mourning  paft, 
 
 Then  Cheares  his  fpiricf,  and  falls  to  hisrepaft. 
 
 And  fuddenly  a  fecond  marriage  proves, 
 
 Whom  he  more  dearly  than  the  former  loves. 
 
 And  fo  his  dear  affedion  on  her  fets , 
 
 He  all  his  former  forrcws  quite  forgets. 
 
 Thus  liv'd  old  laccb  many  happy  yeers 
 
 With  Ber^jamin ,  but  wifely  he  forbears 
 
 Him  to  adventure  once  out  of  his  fight, 
 
 Lefl  as  good  lojeph  him  befall  it  might.  (pa^, 
 
 Twelve  times  through  all  the  Signs  the  Sun  had 
 And  now  through  Xjemini  was  making  haft , 
 When  he  more  kindly  on  his  Paramcur 
 The  Earth  did  {hine,chan  ever  heretofore; 
 Which  made  the  luperflitious  Canaanite 
 Adore  this  Planet^  as  a  God  of  might, 
 Acd  by  Religion  of  his  own  devifing, 
 To  worlhip  the  S^tn-fntiKg^  well  as  rifmg  ; 
 lAnd  amongft  other  their  inventions  vain, 
 Tion  Phcebi^  to  leave  l^elos  lie  they  feign. , 
 To  Court  the  Nymph  ofhrda»  for  his  Bride, 
 And  her  to  honour  with  his  fertile  fide; 
 Therefore  her  banks  he  richly  doth  adorn, 
 And  Hills  and  Valleys  fills  fo  thick  with  Corn  ^ 
 The  eared  Laftds  feeni  a  continued  plain, 
 Whofe  ears  oFCorn  (loop  to  the  ground  again, 
 And  (he  proud  of  the  honour  of  his  Rayi, 
 Her  Bofom  ail  with  fragrant  Flown begays, 
 
 The 
 
Thefeco'/zd  Book  of  lofcph.  ? ? 
 
 The  more  him  with  fwcet  favours  to  delight,^ 
 And  feem  more  fair  embellifht  in  his  fighc  ; 
 Which  made  the  Hills  and  Dales  to  laugh  and  fing, 
 And  all  the  Birds  with  fwecteft  warbeling  , 
 With  them  to  tune  Iweet  ditties  to  his  praife, 
 Whofe  heatand  light  divides  the  night  from  days. 
 Seav'n  times  this  Gy^nt  his  full  courfe  had  run, 
 And  ended  where  his  travel  he  begun, 
 Whilft  lordaas  Nji-nfh  continues  in  his  grace. 
 Which  Canaan  made  the  happyeft  fruitfull  place 
 Of  all  the  Regions,  where  Suns  fertile  heat3 
 Doth  caufe  the  Laborer  with  joy  to  fweat. 
 But  as  we  always  after  Brcught  fee  Kain^ 
 War  after  Peace ^  and  after  P/cafitrg  Pain, 
 So  after  plenteous  and  fruitful!  years  , 
 Great  famine,  want,  and  Icarcitie  appears 
 In  Canaans  Land ;  for  feav'n  years  being  paft 
 OFPlenty,  Famine  all  the  World  doth  waft ; 
 Therefore  they  that  of  late  Sol's  marriage  feign*d. 
 Now  of  his  wrath  and  jealoufie  complu^nd, 
 That  he  which  with  his  beams  late  cheriftied 
 All  Fruits  ,  the  Earth  in  fruitfull  bofome  bred ,' 
 Was  fo  enflam'd  with  Jealoufie  and  Ire , 
 As  if  he  all  the  Earth  would  fet  on  fire; 
 So  as  he  either  would  her  feeds  not  daign 
 To  quicken,  or  if  that  the  hopeful)  grain 
 Promised  a  fruitfull  ha^jreft  at  the  iaft,, 
 
 ?e  in  his  fury  all  would  burn  or  blaft; 
 hus  did  thofc  Heathen  of  Gods  Wonders  fabled 
 And  Vainly  conftru  his  works  admirable. 
 
 But  good  old  Ifiraei  who,  like  LilUe  white 
 Amongft  the  Thorns ,  fear'd  God  and  did  upright,' 
 The  glory  they  diidi  to  the  Creature  give. 
 Gave  the  Creator  who  doth  ever  live. 
 And  looking  on  the  Author  of  this  ftorc , 
 For  this  his  greater  plenty  honours  more. 
 
 Nn3-  And 
 
20 
 
 Thefeco/i<f  Book  oflofcph^ 
 
 ^nd  takes  the  Famine  Tora  Chaftiferaent  j 
 To  man  for  fin  .  that  fo  he  might  repent; 
 Bat  as  the  Plenteous  (lore  did  nothing  breed 
 But  Pride  and  Follies  vain  in  Canaans  feed, 
 (Excefiive  Rioting,  Luft,  Drunker'nefs, 
 Amonglt  the  Rich;  Nicencfs  and  Idiencfs 
 AmongH:  the  Poor  )  who  Swinifhly  ev*n  all 
 The  Acorns  eat,  but  look  not  whence  they  fall, 
 Confuming  all  the  Corn  their  Land  them  bears. 
 Not  laying  np  leafl  (lore  tor  dearer  years  , 
 But  loathing  and  defpizingcoarfer  grain, 
 Tranfport  it  as  fuperfluous  for  their  gain. 
 So  when  the  Earth  deniM  like  ftore  to  bring 
 All  fall  a  grudging  and  a  murmuring , 
 And  SV,  whom  they  fo  lonouiM  at  the  firft 
 Foi  his  hi^h  favours ,  for  his  fury^curft; 
 Ano  thort  which  late  fo  plenteonfly  were  fed, 
 In  the  hrft  y^ar  are  like  to  flarve  for  breadj 
 Ye^  holy  ^  r^^,  though  he  were  exempt 
 From  '^i'? .  r»f  fin, yet  in  ihcir  punifhment 
 DovL  '  -;^3r  'h  fhare,  and  now  for  want  of  Bread 
 K   ^tars  the'uine  of  himlel  -ind  leed  ; 
 A    i  tfaou^  h  he  folw  relyethon  Gods  Grace, 
 Of  vjLirh  !,.  hai  good  rriai-in  like  cafe, 
 Negl«:rd6  no  means  to  make  fupply  of  tiorc  ^ 
 En*-  thuF  belptaks  his  Sons,  I  hcrf  tofore 
 W^  :n  Plenty  JR  your  fields  did  fo  abound, 
 Wiiht  that  c  man  anrjongfl:  you  might  be  found  j 
 Who  wilely  would  for  future  wants  provide. 
 But  folly  'tis  for  Hacl<^  h  wlCr  to  chide. 
 We  hear  there  s  frore  of  Corn  in  ^gj^t  land , 
 Yet  one  dorh  gating  on  another  fi:and. 
 Oh  had  you  thither  iSread  from  thence  to  buy. 
 To  fave  alive  us  and  our  Family. 
 The  Brethren  ten ,  (for  /^r<?^  would  not  fend 
 Down  Ben']Amin  with  them  )  do  fooft  defcend 
 
 To 
 
Tbe\€Cond  Bcok  of  iolcph.  21 
 
 To  ^ffpt,  where  near  Memfhis  on  the  way 
 A  grave  old  Sage  they  overtook  in  gray. 
 Who  feem'd  by  his  grave  geftures  and  his  motions, 
 TobeaH^^-w^Vjnowathis  devotions. 
 
 As  lfaack^go\ng  out  one  Ev'n  to  pray, 
 Seeing  his  Servant  lighting  on  the  way , 
 With  fair  Rebecca  veil'd,  and  all  her  train. 
 Left  his  devotions  them  to  entertain  ; 
 Ev'n  fo  this  Sage,  whofe  eys  on  heav*n  were  plac'd, 
 As  they  would  thither  ere  his  body  hall, 
 Seeing  thefe  gentle  ftrangers  there  alight. 
 And  him  to  mutual  courcefie  invite  , 
 Leaves  his  devotions,  and  of  them  inquires, 
 ('Knowing  they  Hebrews  were  by  their  attires) 
 In  their  own  language,  what,  and  whence  they  are, 
 Which  true  and  plainly  they  to  him  d^lare; 
 And  farther  tell  him  that  a  Famine  fore 
 Had  now  confum'd  their  Corn,  and  all  their  (lore. 
 Compelling  them  from  CAndan  to  go  down 
 To  ^gjp^y  where  they  knew  none,  nor  were  known; 
 Therdbre,  faith  Rptbefj^  may  we  you  requeft 
 Us  ftrangers  to  inform,  as  you  may  beft , 
 Of  your  condition  firft,  next  of  your  King, 
 Your  country,  and  your  form  of  Governing; 
 And  if,  as  Fame  reports,  here^s  flore  of  grain. 
 And  how  and  where  we  may  the  fame  obtain  ^ 
 For  here,  ev*n  as  at  home  ^  we  fee  all  waft  ^ 
 No  future  harveft^  nor  lead  fign  oi'PaB^ 
 And  therefore  with  my  Brethren  I  defire 
 To  know  the  caufe  of  what  we  fo  admire, 
 W\thoutaSeed'tif?jetA'  a  Harz;efi,  pkmy, 
 And  Garners  f^/i^  although  the  Fteids  be  emptp 
 
 Brethren,  faid  Trifmegiff^  for  fo  he  hight, 
 1  firft  muft  here  lay  open  to  your  fight , 
 That  Being'j  Goedmfs^  Power ^  and  Providence^ 
 By  which  we  all  have  Motion^  Behg,  Senfe^ 
 
 Nn4  VVho* 
 
a  2  Thejeco/id  Book  of  loi  cph . 
 
 Who,  thtftrfl  caufe  of  all  doth  things  difpofc 
 
 By/rcom^  thefe  we  fee,  that  keeps  he  dole; 
 
 1  am  a  PrieBs  and  Princes  Mc{\:  Son  ^ 
 
 For  Priests  and  Princes  are  in  ^gypf  one. 
 
 And  to  the  ^«^,  as  was  our  Country  guize, 
 
 Wasconfecratc  to  ofifer  Sacrifife , 
 
 Great  Trifmegiflas  was  my  anccftor^ 
 
 A  Kingy  a  Priefi^  and  a  Philofopher* 
 
 Soon  as  my  Tongue  mens  wordr^  could  imitate, 
 
 And,  thoujji  with  little  underftanding ,  prate. 
 
 My  Parents  me  inflrutft  to  learn  by  heart 
 
 The  rules  oiiV.fdom^  and  the  laws  of  Art, 
 
 The  afpeds  of  the  St^rt^  their  fevcral  vp^jsy 
 
 Con'jmBions^  Orders^  Intcrfofings^  Stays^ 
 
 flyin^^  oi'Brds^  Beafis  i^traiis^  and  in  fine  , 
 
 All  thac  mightmakewiththcm  a  found  Divine; 
 
 And  well  I  profited,  for  ere  ieaft  hair 
 
 OiSlvcr^  with  my  Goiden  did  appear, 
 
 The  Wifefi-,  I  of  all  my  Peers  was  decm'd. 
 
 And  mofl:  in  Tem:)le  and  in  Court  cHeemM; 
 
 Could  heft  of  all  expound  the  hardeft  Tbsams  i 
 
 Tell  men  their  Fortunes^  and  irterpret  Dreams; 
 
 Thus  I  the  Oracle  was  many  a  year 
 
 Of  ;E^;pr,andofall  the  Countries  near. 
 
 Till  that  high  PFffdom  which  things  fut fire  knows 
 
 As  prefi'^a^  them  by  Dreams  to  Pharaoh  (ho\^5. 
 
 Fasi  by  a  RiVer  fide  him  thought  hefi-ood^ 
 whence  came  uo  feav'nfat  Kine,  wellflilh^  and  go^d^ 
 And  othor  feav'n  i  il- favour' die  an  ^  th^thonr 
 Came  upy  and  Jill  the  fair  one'f^did  devoHre, 
 Again  he  ^t^X.,ayjdfa>i>i'feav^fiEars  of  Corn 
 On  one  root^  tvell-fet^  ra»k ,  and^ goodly  born  , 
 which  Seav*n  thin  bljfied.Jpoil'd'andeat  up  clean. 
 Then  Pharaoh  wak'd,  and  lo  I  it  was  a  Dream; 
 The  morning  come,  and  he  fo^e  troubcled, 
 His  SoHth{ajers  are  all  afferabeled, 
 
 Pharcah 
 
rhefecond  Book  oriofcpb.  H 
 
 Pharaoh  thereof  to  us  makes  declaration. 
 
 But  not  a  man  can  give  tb*interprctation. 
 
 Our  Sphergs,  Soels^  Circles ^  Birds,  nor  SerceruS^ 
 
 Fad  power  to  difcern  thefe  rayfteries; 
 
 Then  P'-^v  aoh  movM^  and  thenceforth  gricYing  forc^ 
 
 Forbears  hi^  meat,  and  comes  abroad  no  more. 
 
 Until i  his  i?/^-/tr,  rai&'d  again  to  grace , 
 
 Who  ha  a  forgot  his  friend  in  wretched  cafe,  (liglitj 
 
 Till  twice  twelve  times  the  Moon  with  borrowed 
 
 Had  fillM  her  tiorns,  (for  friends  once  out  of  (ight^ 
 
 Areev'n  as  Toon  out  of  a  Courtiers  mind, 
 
 '' Such  Curtefic  in  Court  moft  Scholars  find : ) 
 
 Thus  faid  to  Pharaoh y  Sir  you  cannot  yet 
 
 Chufe  but  remember,  how  you  did  commit 
 
 Me  and  your  B  kjr  to  your  Stewards  Ward, 
 
 For  fomc  mifdeeds,  which  you  of  us  had  heard. 
 
 Where  in  the  Prifon  wc  a  youn^  man  founds 
 
 In  whom  diwnefl:  wifdom  did  abound, 
 
 For  we  a  feveral  Dream  had  in  a  night , 
 
 Which  told  to  him.to  os  he  read  aright, 
 
 The  Balder  to  ih&GaUows^l  to  Grace 
 
 Should  be  reftorM,  and  all  in  three  days  fpace; 
 
 This  of  our  Dreams  th*interpretation  was. 
 
 All  which  you  faw  mod  truly  came  to  pafs; 
 
 Thus  ends  the  Butler  ^Pharaoh  glad  to  hear 
 
 Of  ought  might  eafe  his  longing,  wiiht  him  there. 
 
 Who  quicklv  fent  for  fhav'd,  apparcl'd  white. 
 
 As  him  became  to  ftand  in  Pharaoh's  fight. 
 
 Heard ,  aqd  as  foon  his  Dream  did  right  dKpoutid, 
 
 Which  by  9  years  experience  true  is  found. 
 
 For  t\it{tjeaz>'nfair  Kme^andratik^gooldy  Ears^ 
 
 He  did  tHter^rei  jeav^n  fat  frm'f!4lijear5^ 
 
 Thefedi/n  thifi^flarved^  which  did  thsm  devour y 
 
 Seav^Yi years  of  V amine  5  in  a  luckie  hour 
 
 For  ^O/'^i  ^<^^  -hus  ilore  we  up  did  lay 
 
 In  fruitiull  years  againft  this  evill  day; 
 
 And 
 
«4  Thefeco/id  Book  of  lof eph . 
 
 And  not  fole  happy  for  our  temforMlHorCj 
 
 But  fpiritHd/ ;  for  many  who  before 
 
 (Long  led  in  ignorance  and  rfror  blind , 
 
 Till  they  Goe^s  Truth  by  good  experience  find) 
 
 ,To  Stones^  and  Stocks^  Sun^  Moon^  and  Stars  did  fall, 
 
 Now  worfhip  God  the  Maker  of  us  all ; 
 
 O:  which,  for  ever  (blefled  be  his  name) 
 
 A  thankfull  one  L  though  th'unworthieftj  am. 
 
 And  having  all  vain  Worldly  joys  forfakcn, 
 
 Now  to  Devotion  fole  my  felf  betaken* 
 
 Thus  ends  the  S^gc^  when  ludah,  holy  Sire^ 
 Hearing  thy  words,  Gods  goodnefs  we  admire, 
 Happy  chat  God  hath  kindled  in  thy  breaft , 
 The  holy  Fire  th^k  flames  do  manifcfl:; 
 But  tell  us  what  became  of  that  great  5^jrf, 
 Which  of  fuch  ftore  and  famine  did  prefagc; 
 You  told  us  how  the  Butler  him  negleded. 
 But  how  hath  Pharaoh  his  defert  refpeded  ? 
 For  great  ones  for  the  moft  part  do  defpife 
 The  poor,  though  they  be  ne*r  fo  jijft  and  wife ; 
 And  though  the  Land  is  by  their  wifdoms  guarded. 
 They  are  not  long  refpe^^ed  or  rewarded. 
 
 That's  th'ird,  faith  Trlfmegifi,  for  which  I  told 
 The  reft-  when  as  King  Vharaoh  did  ^ehold 
 Such  heav  nly  wifdorf,  in  fuch  youthfull  years, 
 (For  fcaKc  fix  Luftres  in  his  face  appears^  ) 
 Who  counfelM  him^with  fpeed  for  to  provide 
 A  man  of  umitri}anding,that  might  guide 
 His  under  Officers,  through  all  the  Land, 
 To  flore  up  plenry  under  Pharaoh's  hand, 
 The  fifth  part  ev*n  o  •  all  cheir  Corn  and  Seed, 
 To  feed  the  peopk  in  the  time  of  need; 
 The  faying  ieemM  fo  good  in  Pharaoh's  eys. 
 And  all  his  Se^-vant^  .chat  they  foon  devife, 
 CBecaufe  no  man  in  Agjpt  could  befouud, 
 in  whom  che  Sf  rit  tfC^d  did  fo  abound) 
 ^  To 
 
ThefecoM  Book  of  Ibfeph.  f  1 
 
 0  place  him  over  all  his  houfe  and  Land  i 
 
 hat  all  might  be  ev'n  ^he  (hould  command; 
 hus  now  he  with  the  Kihg  is  all  as  one , 
 
 c  only  fits  above  him  in  his  Throne  ; 
 [im  then  mod  fumptuoufly  apparelling, 
 le  made  the  Lord  and  Keeper  of  his  Ri^f^, 
 he  which  he  ufcd  as  the  publick  Seai^ 
 or  all  his  vrivate  ftate  and  Common-VQeali 
 Lnd  in  his  fecond  Cbaret  bravely  plac'd , 
 
 nd  with  the  highefl:  Princely  honour  grac'dj 
 his  is  the  Man  hath  ftor'd  up  in  the  Land , 
 jreat  heaps  of  Corn  in  number  like  the  Sand^ 
 •or  as  the  Sd-^ds  cannot  be  numbered , 
 vfo  more  the  Plenty  he  hath  gathered. 
 Jow  twice  the  Snn  hath  his  full  courfe  nigh  paflj 
 ince  all  our  L^uods  have  barran  lien  and  waft; 
 ^U*i4  no  more  our  Felds  hath  watered , 
 "^or  fertile  dews  our  fruits  have  cherifhcd ; 
 Lnd  now  the  Dearth  in  ail  the  Land  is  fore^ 
 is  well  araongft  the  Richejt  as  the  Poor- 
 rhc  GirHiTs  open'd  ar?^  and  there  is  fold 
 jreatftore  of  C<>r«;  nor  doth  this  Prince  withhold 
 rom  Grangers  his  Provifion ,  for  well-ny 
 W[  Regions  hithof  come  them  Corn  to  buy; 
 rhis  man  will  you  for  Moijey  C^n  afford , 
 ^or  ht*s  vptff^  gemtley]HJt^  and  fear?  the  Lord.^ 
 
 But>  whijft  the  S  ge  to  them  this  tale  relates, 
 fhey  unawares  approach  near  r.^emphu  gates, 
 fhcn  to  his  Ct// returns  the  aged  Sire^ 
 rhey  haft  unto  the  City  to  enquire 
 More  of  :hat  I^rtncc  by  whdfethe  Corn  was  fold^-" ' 
 ^herc  they  their  :gfothcr,th3^h  unknown,  befiold.      "^ 
 
 The  Endoftheffcond  Bco^tfjofcpb* 
 
 The 
 
\6 
 
 The  Third  Book  of 
 fOSETH. 
 
 NOw  is  the  time  that  all  the  Sheaves  mufl:  bend' 
 Tq  one ,  now  rais*d  on  high  upon  his  end, 
 The  Sfin^  Moon^  and  the  Stars  eleven  muft  now, 
 To  whom  they  meanly  erfl:  accounted,  bow; 
 Y<yclofe^h  now  by  due  defcrt  and  right, 
 Is  plac  d  in  Honours  Chariot  fhining  bright, 
 And  all  the  Com  the  Treafure  of  the  L  and  , 
 Under  his  fole  difpofingand  command  ; 
 For  this  fame  lo[efh  whom  the  Hebrews  fold, 
 Is  he  of  whom  great  Trifmegift  erft  told; 
 Who  Corn  had  heap*d  up  numberlefs  like  fand, 
 And  was  the  Ruler  over  all  the  Land. 
 When  lo  1  the  Brethren  ten  before  him  brought, 
 Low  bowing  to  the  ground,  him  thus  befought ; 
 Great  Lord ,  whofe  wifdom  and  deferred  grace. 
 Gives  diee  in  I^gypt  ev  n  the  fecond  place, 
 Whofe  Prudence,  Honour,  Glory,  and  Renoun, 
 Through  all  the  habi':able  Earth  is  known; 
 Vonchfafe  to  us  thy  Servants  now  fuch  grace , 
 As  thou  haft  done  to  many  in  our  Cafe;  j 
 
 We  -brethren  all,  one  mans  Sons^  come  to  buy        | 
 Corn  to  reJieve  us  and  our  Family, 
 Except  we  by  thy  Clemency  be  fed, 
 Wc  and  our  Race  rauft  dit  for  want  of  bread. 
 
 The  Lord  o^ ^gypt  then  who  them  did  know, 
 But  was  unknown,himfelfftrange rough  doth(ho\ 
 
 Ar 
 
The  third  Book  e/Ioleph.  ^T 
 
 nd  now  rcraembring  well  his  Dreams  oHate, 
 or  which  thefe ,  that  thus  honour,  him  did  hatCj 
 
 8hus  aniwers;  See  1  you  have  a  fair  pretence  5 
 o  buy  you  Corn  and  ViAual  from  hence ; 
 .uc  you  are  come  into  the  Land  as  Spies, 
 o  fee  wherein  our  ftrength  and  weaknefs  lies; 
 i'c  like  ten  Brethren  (hould  fo  far  defcend  ^ 
 slone  left  at  home  their  houfes  to  defend? 
 )r  are  yon  all  without  a  houfe  or  home  , 
 \nd  mafterlefs  about  the  Countries  rome? 
 
 Truly,  faith  Ifidah^  we  twelve  Brethren  be, 
 \ll  one  mans  Sons,  of  which  thou  ten  doft  fee, 
 The  lead,  at  home,  doth  with  his  Father  ftay, 
 3ut  no  man  knows  where  th'other  is  this  day; 
 To  buy  food  are  thy  Servants  hither  come. 
 For  us  and  for  onr  Families  at  home. 
 
 By  this,  faith  then  the  Prince^  the  Truth  Tl  know. 
 Whether  you ,  as  I  fay,  be  Sfies  or  no ; 
 tor,  By  the  Life  of  Pharaoh^  no  man  home 
 Shall  go,  before  your  younger  Brother  come  5 
 Take  them  to  Prifon,  till  his  coming  tries 
 The  truth;  By  Pktraoh'sLife  you  are  but  Sfjes. 
 
 Then  he  three  d^ys  coramitteth  them  to  Ward, 
 Whilft  of  an  answer  chey  theraelve^prepar'd. 
 Thus,  as  Gods  Minilter  and  Subflitute , 
 He  vengeance  on  their  fins  doth  retribute, 
 Sins  now  forgot,  becaufe  fo  longfince  paft. 
 But  though  God*s  flow,  he  pays  them  home  at  lad ; 
 Yea  then,  when  they  thcmfelves  think  mofl  fecure 
 For  lofephs  wrongs,  he  pays  them  home  and  fure; 
 Happy  who  make  riphtufe  ofCnaftifemenc, 
 Which  is  to  hate,  forfake  Sin,  and  repent,- 
 But,  they  in  Prifon  ,  Io/e[h  doth  advife 
 Alone  with  God  ,  how  he  may  befl  devife, 
 Them  for  their  fcul  offences  to  corred , 
 And  yet  his  aged  Father  noc  negled, 
 
 Whcni 
 
if  The  third  Bcok  o/Ioleph. 
 
 Whom  fain  he  would  relieve  with  ftore  of  grain. 
 But  fears  his  brechren  will  not  come  again  ; 
 The  third  day  therefore,  thus  faith  lojeph^  hear. 
 Do  this  and  live,  for  I  the  Lord  do  fear; 
 If  you  be  true  men,  as  you  all  affirm. 
 Leave  one  man  bound ,  the  reft  all  home  return. 
 With  corn  for  to  relieve  your  Family, 
 Then  bring  your  Brother, and  not  one  (ball  dy. 
 But  traffique  here  as  true  men  in  the  Li^nd^ 
 And  I  will  free  your  Hoflage  from  his  Band. 
 His  word  prevail'd,  but  th^y  in  Confcience 
 Prickt  for  their  cruelty,  and  foul  offence. 
 Long  fincc  committed  'gainft  this  Lord  unknown , 
 And  thinking C7od/  now  pays  them  with  their  own. 
 Thus  one  to  other  to  complain  begin, 
 Ah  1  how  did  we  againft  our  Brother  fin,^ 
 When  his  Sotils  anguifh  did  to  us  appear , 
 And  he  befought  us  yet  we  would  not  hear? 
 Therefore  on  us,  this  trouble  now  doth  fall. 
 When  Ruhen  thus,  Oh  1  did  /  not  you  all 
 Not  to  offend  againft  the  I/;?^dciire , 
 And  now  you  fee  God  doth  his  blood  require  ? 
 Little  think  they  that  lofeph  by  doth  ftand , 
 And  all  their  fpeeches  plainly  underfland. 
 Who  turns  and  weeps,  yet  foon  returns  again, 
 So  Friends  afflidions  tears  from  Friends  conftrain- 
 Then  taking  Simeon  he  him  binds  with  bands 
 Before  their  eys ,  and  fecretly  commands , 
 To  fill  their  Sacks  with  Provender  and  Grain, 
 And  put  their  money  in  their  Sacks  again; 
 So  they  return  with  Confcience  tiring  more  I 
 Than  all  the  Miles  from  Nile  to  lordans  fhore» 
 As  when  ten  horfemen  roving  out  for  prey, 
 Lole  one  of  their  dear  fellows  by  the  way. 
 Though  with  rich  Spoils  they  to  the  Camp  return, 
 All  for  him  loft,  lift  up  their  voice  and  mourn; 
 
 "  ■ -"'  '  So 
 
I  f?e  mra  book  oj  loiep  n .  aj^ . 
 
 So  mourn  thefe  Brethreti  nine  for  Simeon*s  chuini 
 Their  Brothers  lofs  was  greater  than  their  gainj 
 But  when  G^dln  the  Inne  bis  Sack  unbinds 
 For  Provender,  and  there  his  money  finds. 
 Their  hearts  them  failing,  all  are  fore  afraid. 
 That  they  as  Simeon  likewife  were  betraid  ; 
 Ah  I  what,  fay  they,  hath  God  upon  us  brought. 
 For  all  the  wickednefs  which  we  have  wrought  ? 
 This  thing  upon  us  all  is  juftly  come , 
 But  moft  efpecially  on  Simeon  , 
 Who  was  the  crucileft,  and  rather  would 
 Have  /ofephhdiini  than  to  the  Merchants  Md; 
 But  when  at  home  they  to  their  Father  tell 
 All  that  to  them  in  ^gypt  had  befell , 
 And  how  that  they  for  Spjes  were  taken  there , 
 Imprifoned  three  days,  ana  put  in  fear. 
 And  tharthe  Man  there  ftill  kept  Simeon  boundp 
 Till  by  inquirie  all  the  Truth  he  found; 
 And  feeing  alfo  cv'ry  man  bring  back 
 The  money,  which  he  carried,  in  his  Sack, 
 The  good  old  man  was  wondroufly  afraid , 
 That  Simeon  ev*n  as  lofeph  was  betraid , 
 And  faid,  my  Sons  you  laugh  my  sge  to  fcorn , 
 You  have  my  Simeon  pawn'd  or  Ibid  for  Corn, 
 Elfe  where  (hould  you  provide  fuch  ftore  oi  Grain,- 
 And  yet  bring  all  your  Money's  home  again  ? 
 But  when  they  farther  told  him  in  a  word, 
 How  rough  and  ftern  they  found  the  Mgjptian  Lord, 
 And  that  their  bringing  Benjamin  muft  try, 
 Whether  or  no  they  came  the  Z^«^  to  Spy, 
 He  thinks  they  likewife  feek  him  to  deprive 
 Ot  Benjamin,  his  deareft  Son  alive; 
 Wherefore  he  thus  Laments  and  makes  great  moan^ 
 His  Brother's  dead ,  and  he  is  left  alone  ; 
 If  mifchief  him  befall  upon  the  way  , 
 You  bring  my  head  to  grave  with  forrow  gray. 
 
 The 
 
3m     '  Tfje  third  Book  of  lofcpn . 
 
 The  Dearth  grows  great, Corn's  fpent,/^fr<?^  in  vain 
 Them  bids  for  food  to  -"^gypt  haft  ag^in. 
 
 Wc  dare  not  Tee,  fay  they,  the  Princes  face, 
 Except  our  youngeft  Brother  be  in  place, 
 ^e  ftreight  will  go,  fo  him  with  us  thou  fend. 
 
 But  ah.'  faith  Ucoh^  what  did  you  intend, 
 By  telling  of  the  man  you  Lad  a  Brother  f 
 
 Alas,  faith  /udah^  how  cou  id  wc  do  other  ? 
 He  of  our  ftate  and  kindred  did  inquire , 
 Saying,  what  liveth  yet  your  aged    trt  > 
 Have  you  a  Brother  yet?   we  told  him  fo, 
 Ah  !  how  could  we  what  he  intended  know  > 
 But  fend  the  L^d  with  us,  we  inftantly 
 Willbringyou  food  for  ail  your  Family; 
 I  am  his  furety,  him  of  me  require. 
 For  ever  let  me  bare  thy  blame  and  ire. 
 Except  I  bring  him  back :  The  fault  is  thine, 
 Elfe  wc  returned  had  the  fecond  time. 
 Father,  faith  PHhen^  let  my  Sons  be  flain  , 
 Except  I  fafe  do  bring  him  home  again. 
 
 As  in  fome  Siege  when  Famine  grows  fo  great , 
 That  Mothers  their  own  Children  dear  do  eat , 
 One  clofe  her  Dearefi  darling  doth  up  hide , 
 Left  others  her  compel!  it  CO  divide  , 
 And  rather  choofeth  ev'n  to  ftarve  and  pi  ne 
 Than  cleave  her  tender  infant  in  the  Chine ; 
 So  when  the  Famine  now  grows  grievous  fore 
 In  (acohs  houfe ,  and  like  ftill  to  be  more , 
 He  ftarving  rather  chooieth  to  abide , 
 Than  part  with  his  dear  Darlin;ixom  his  fide; 
 But  when  he  faiv  himfelf,  and  all  his  ra 
 With  deareft  Benjamin^  in  equal  ca^e , 
 That  all  for  want  oFBread  muft  ftarve  and  dy, 
 Except  from  ^-gjpt  they  had  new  fupply, 
 He  faid  to  them  ,  Since  needs  it  muft  be  fo^ 
 A  prefent  at  my  hands  take  ere  you  go, 
 
 Palm 
 
The  third  Book  o/Iofcph.  3 1 
 
 Balm,  Spice,  and  Mirrhe,with  bed  fruits  of  the  land, 
 Take  likewife  double  money  in  your  band, 
 And  that  brought  back  return,  as  it  is  right, 
 It  may  be  it  was  but  fome  over-fight. 
 And  take  your  Brother  with  you,  and  arife, 
 God  fend  you  favour  in  the  Prince*s  cys; 
 To  free  my  Simson^  and  this  my  dehght,  / 
 
 Thus  ofmy  Children  I  am  robbed  quite; 
 With  that  he  poured  out  a  flood  of  tears  ^ 
 But  hungry  Stomacks  had  nor  eys  nor  ears. 
 But  took  the  Spice  and  Money  in  their  hand , 
 And  haft  with  Benjamin  to  ^gjfts  Land* 
 From  Hebron^  three  days  lourney,  pais  they  right 
 To  Memphis ^vfjhttt  they  lodged  all  that  pight. 
 Early  i'ch'morning,  when  as  lojepb  fate, 
 Difpatching  Suters  and  affairs  o  State^  j 
 
 Amongft  the  other  Suters  in  the  Ha/l , 
 He  firft  one  of  his  Brethren  fpies,  then  all ; 
 But  moft  his  deatefl:  Benjamin  he  ey'd 
 And  therefore  bids  his  Steward  foon  provide. 
 And  take  thole  f/f^r^-i^/ to  fome  private  room. 
 For  he  would  have  them  dine  with  him  at  noon: 
 *Tis  fit  that  thofe  whom  God  to  PUce  doth  call,, 
 Should  be  to  firangers  kind  and  hofpitaU 
 Then  brought  to  lofephs  houfe  ,  they  are  afraid 
 Ttie  money  to  their  charges  fhould  be  laid. 
 
 When  luda  j  thus ,  the  money  we  did  find 
 In  our  Sacks  mouths,  when  we  did  them  unbind'^. 
 We  have  brought  back,  with  money  eke  to  buy 
 I  New  Corn  for  us,  and  all  our  Family, 
 
 Peace,  laith  the  man,  your  Fathers  God  you  fen£ 
 That  trealure,  I  was  paid  and  well  content. 
 And  forth- with  Simeon  out  unco  them  broughtj'      / 
 Who  each  faluting  other^  as  they  ought  f 
 Enquire  atfirft  of  one  anothers  wealth, 
 'hxxt  Simeon  chiefly  of  his  Fathers  health* 
 
 Oo  Theoi 
 
jy  7  oe  u?t/a  DDSK  or  luiepii. 
 
 Then  arc  they  to  a  ftately  Parhttr  brought, 
 All  hung  with  curious  Arras  richly  wrought 
 By  /  fff's  Bndf.^  CQ  whom  he  had  made  known 
 ^fiis  Kindred,  there  in  curious  colours  fhown, 
 (For  as  her  Lord,  io  (he  no  time  mifpends. 
 But  duly  with  her  Maids  Iier  work  intends; 
 Lo  1  hfeph  is  the  Patern  of  her  life, 
 Thus  a  good  H///^,i»/cj!  always  makes  a  JVife*  ) 
 The  Delude  in  the  firfl:  peece  was  contained  , 
 Where  but  the  Arl^^  nought  on  the  floods  reraain'd. 
 But  they  abated .  Lo  1  there  cometh  forth^ 
 All  living  creeping  things  upon  the  earth, 
 With  fuch  variety  and  cunning  wrought , 
 As  plainer  folks  them  living  would  have  thought. 
 So  skillfuJ  Art  doth  NAtnre  imitate. 
 The  Dogs  do  feem  to  run,  the  Lambs  to  bleat; 
 Here  Nonh  ofFreth  on  an  Alter  built, 
 Of  all  cUan  Beafts  to  clenfe  fmsfoulefi^ui/t; 
 Good  i'^w,  u4?phaxadj  Selah  (ofwhofe  race 
 Came  Heher^  whence  the  Hebrews  )  next  had  placp* 
 And  PeUg  next,  who  firfl:  divides  the  Land , 
 Re:4^  Serug^  Nahor^  Tar  ah  next  do  iland. 
 From  whence  comes  bleflcd  Ahraham,  by  whom 
 The  Bie(fed  Seed  o^Sar^JS  Womb  n^ould  come; 
 Here  Angels  him  la!ute,with  God  he  walks. 
 And  as  tv/o  friends  with  God  familiar  talks; 
 Here  Sirj.h  laughs  to  hear  from  her  dry  V/omb, 
 Seed  like  Sf^fi^id^cxW  numberlefs,  (hould  come; 
 Here  Ifiack^s  CircumcisM,  here  Sacriiis'd 
 By  Faith  ,  but  for  his  blood  a  Lamb  Itjffis'd  ; 
 Rebecca  skins  on  L:c  ho  hands  here  cleaves. 
 Here's  Brother  of  his  hiclllng  he  deceives; 
 And  bleffed,  llrelght  flies  from  his  B-rothers  wrath 
 To  Laba.n^  v|here  he  both  his  Daughters  hath; 
 Here  he  returns,  whom  fooa  as  Laban  mifles,    - 
 With  anger  h:  Purfues,  but  parts  with  kiffes; 
 
 Here 
 
7'he  third  Book  of  lofcpli.  5  5 
 
 Here  wreftlcs  he  with  God  ,  lo  here  he  meets 
 His  angry  Brother,  who  him  kindly  greets; 
 Before  one  i'^r.^f,  here  ten  Sheafs  fecm  to  fall , 
 Here  Sun ,  and  JIoo>j^  and  Sta^Sy  it  worfhip  all. 
 
 Here  are  ten  Brethren  playing  in  the  (hadows, 
 Whilftall  their  Flocks  arc  mowing  ot'the  Medovv?jj 
 Like  lively  Shepheards  ail  do  dance  and  fing, 
 That  Woods  and  Hills  with  Ecchos  Teem  to  ring* 
 When  comes  a  Child  in  Party-colour'd  Coat, 
 Them  to  falute*  but  all  fly  to  his  Throat, 
 And  like  fo  many  Butchers  'bout  a  Lamb^ 
 Seek  to  bereave  him  from  his  dearefl  D.^.m  ; 
 Of  all  the  flories  they  did  there  behold. 
 This  had  moft  life;  For  Jofephs  wife  had  told , 
 With  her  own  hand  ic  here  fo  cunninoly, 
 A  man  would  think  he  faw  the  the  Vnatre  cry," 
 And  on  his  knees  with  unfeigned  ii^mvence^ 
 To  beg  his  Life  of  their  MaUvoUncf. 
 This  made  their  eys  thofe  curious  fights  forbear. 
 And  gaftly  one  upon  another  flare , 
 And  fo  araaz'd  them  ,  they  now  furely  thought^ 
 God^W  their  wickednefs  to  li<^ht  bad  broughc- 
 But  now  that  lofcfn  is  recurn'd  rhey  hear. 
 Therefore  their  Prefcnt  ready  ihey  prepare. 
 
 As  Ahr^m  when  he  had  recovered 
 rlis  Khfmnn  Lot^  and  Capiives  with  him  /ed^^ 
 Returning  by  the  way  with  Bread  and  Wine, 
 Was  met  by  great  Meichi^z^edfcl^dmne, 
 And  bleded,  for  that  6'f'^now  by  his  hand 
 Rad  fav'd  the  Pritjce  and  Peof/e  of  the  La:^d; 
 Sv'nfo  good /<?/^^£>^  who  by  pains, not  fword,  ~  • 
 
 -lad  favM  alive  th' Mfjptiam  and  their  Lo'-d 
 \nd  dayly  from  fierdc  Frf/-5r;/?f  fuccoured 
 uch  a^had  died  ^k  for  want  of  Bread, 
 VasraetwithPr</J?»^jcomingtohis  HaiJg 
 ind  blefi:  as  the  Pr^firvfr  of  them  ail. 
 
-  4  ^-'^  third  Book  of  Jofcph . 
 
 AraongH:  the  reft  thefe  Hc^r^wlouting  low^ 
 
 Their  Prefent  offer  him,  who  ftrcighc  would  know, 
 
 How  they  did  all,  and  it  their  Father  old 
 
 Liv'd  ftill  in  health , o' whom  they  laft  him  told; 
 
 And  what  is  this  your  Brother  young,  faid  he, 
 
 Of  whom  you  told  me?  They  all  anfwer'd,  yea. 
 
 God  blefs  my  Son,  faich  lofeph^  and  retires 
 
 To  weep  for  joy,  now  havin;^  his  deiires ; 
 
 But  wafhing's  eys  and  face,  he  doth  refrain, 
 
 And  to  his  Brethren  foon  returns  again. 
 
 So  calls  for  meat,  he  by  hirafelf  alone, 
 
 Th*JE^ptians  by  thcrafelves  are  plac'd  each  one. 
 
 His  Brethren  by  themfelves,  (  for  ^^^;/)'j  Nation 
 
 To  eat  with  Hebrevfs  deem  abhomination) 
 
 Are  ranked  as  their  ages  do  require, 
 
 Which  made  them  this  due  Order  all  admire; 
 
 To  all  then  from  his  Board  he  Mefles  fends,  ] 
 
 But  five  to  one  on  B^^jjamh/s  he  fpends, 
 
 Lo  thus  they  all  eat,  drink,  and  make  good  chear. 
 
 Till  they  had  drown'd  all  forrow,  grief  and  care. 
 
 But  Jofsp.b,  who  araidfl  his  feafls  doLh  mind 
 Thofc,  that  abroad  for  hunger  rierv*d  and  pin'd , 
 Thinks  of  his  Father  old  ,  and  doth  command 
 His  Steward  for  to  fill,  flreight  out  of  hand, 
 The  HehrelSfs  facks  fo  full  as  they  can  thruft ; 
 And  put  their  moneys  in  their  fa*.ks,  as  firf^; 
 And  in  the  youngsfl's  lack  his  filverCup  , 
 So  in  the  morning  e'r  the  San  was  up, 
 They  with  their  Camels  laden  are  let  go, 
 Bute*r  they  thence  are  gone  a  mile  or  two, 
 Up  gets  the  Stew^itdj  and  them  after  hies, 
 Whom  over-taking,  thus  aloud  he  cries ; 
 
 Ah  I  wliy  have  you  rewarded  ill  for  good? 
 My  Mtfier  o^ his  Grace  hd^th  giv'nyou  food. 
 And  you  his  C«;>,  wherein  he  drinketh  Wine, 
 And  wont  to  Prophecie  and  to  divine, 
 
 '  Pur: 
 
The  third  Bock  of  Jofcpb. 
 
 Purloined  have,  oh  it  is  evill  done. 
 
 Good  Sir,  faith  Rnben^  think  not  any  one 
 Of  us  would  do  fuch  tiling;  the  money  found, 
 Laft  time ,  when  we  our  lacks  at  home  unbound^ 
 Was  brought  to  thee  again,  moil  truly  told. 
 How  (hould  we  then  or  Silver  deal  or  Gold? 
 Dye  let  him  wherefoever  it  is  found ; 
 We  Bondmen  to  ray  Lord  for  ever  bound. 
 
 He,  faith  the  Ste\i(iArd^  fnall  be  bound,  where  we 
 The  Cup  fhail  find,  the  other  (hall  go  free; 
 Then  taking  down  their  facks,  they  do  begin^ 
 To  fearch  from  Rubcrtf  ev'n  to  Beyjimln^ 
 There  was  it  found  ,  then  all  their  cloathes  rend  ^ 
 And  back  again  unto  the  Citie  tend; 
 As  Theeves  who  by  the  owner  over-take , 
 In  frefli  purfuir,  with  goods  about  them  t?.ke 
 And  brought  before  the  fndie^  all  mercy  cry^ 
 Without  defence,  for  fuch  their  Felonyj 
 So  they  to  JoJ^ph  brought ,  before  him  fall , 
 And  only  unto  him  for  mercy  call. 
 What  have  you  done,  fr^ith  he,  know  you  not  I 
 Am  able  to  Divine  and  Propecie  ? 
 
 Ah !  ludih  faith,  what  (hall  thy  Servants  fayi 
 Or  do  ?  How  can  we  clear  our  (elves  this  day  ? 
 God  hath  made  plain  thy  Servants  wicked nds, 
 Wc  are  thy  Bondmen  all,  we  do  confefs. 
 As  likewife  he  with  whom  theO^pwas  found. 
 Nay, God  forbid, faith  hfeph^  he  be  bound 
 Who  had  the  C/^/?,  the  reil  depart  m  peace 
 To  your  old  Father,  haft.  Why  do  you  ceafe. 
 
 My  Lord,  faith  Jud.-ih^  we  have  no  defence, 
 Ycc  let  me  fpeak  one  word  witbo':jt  cifence^ 
 At  our  laft  being  hear,  thou  did'ft  ijiquirc 
 Of  this  our  Broiher,  and  our  aged  Sire  ^ 
 And  we,  thy  Servants,  true  and  pL^.inly  told, 
 We  have  a  Father  which  is  very  old, 
 
 O03  W^ho 
 
^6  The  third  Beck  o/^Iofcph, 
 
 Who  alfo  in  his  age  begat  our  Brother,  ♦ 
 The  only  Child  alive  now  of  his  mother  j 
 His  brother's  dead,  and  therefore  more  belovM; 
 By  this,  my  Lord  then  anfwcr'd,  (hall  be  proov'd 
 The  truth  of  all  your  fayings,  bring  him  hither 
 That  I  may  fee  the  Bf-ethren  all  together; 
 We  anfwer'd ,  if  the  L^td  ihould  but  depart 
 From  his  o\dFatfo:r^  it  would  kill  his  heart; 
 My  LordrcpYid,  except  he  to  this  place 
 With  you  return,  forbear  to  fee  my  facej 
 We  coming  home,  this  to  our  Father  (how. 
 Who  to  buy  Corn  again  would  have  us  go, 
 Bur,  we  repli'd,  e:5cept  the  Lad  we  place 
 Be  o;e  che  Mat^^  we  may  not  fee  his  face ; 
 A  h  1  faith  our  Father,  you  my  Sons  well  know^ 
 Th. /:  J  h^d  by  his  Mother,  only  two, 
 Ones  dead  and  gone,  if  this  away  you  have, 
 You  bring  my  head  with  forrow  to  the  grave; 
 Mow  if  thou  us  unto  my  Father  fend 
 Without  the  Lad^on  whom  his  days  depend:, 
 Soon  as  our  F^^hrr  miffeth  him,  he  dies. 
 And  we  be  Authors  of  his  mileries. 
 Befides,  I  furety  for  the  L^id  became. 
 And  if  I  bring  him  not,  muft  bear  the  blame; 
 How  Ihall  I  then  r^y  Fathers  face  behold 
 Without  the  Lad  be  there,  except  I  would 
 Bring  on  my  Fathers  houfe  fuch  wretchednefs. 
 As  no  mans  tongue  is  able  to  exprefs  ? 
 With  that  like  Jordaas  floods  his  tears  do  fall. 
 And  as  he  wept,  fo  wept  his  Brethren  all. 
 
 But  Jcfeph  then  no  longer  could  refrain. 
 But  bius  forbear,  there  may  not  one  remain 
 Within  with  him,  whild  he  himfelf declares 
 Unto  his  Brethren,  with  fuch  cries  and  tears. 
 That  the  M^jfiam  and  I'haraah  hear 
 His  land  lamsntSy  and  fcarcelv  can  forbear 
 
The  third  Book  o/Tofcph , 
 To  mourn  with  him,  who  kept  them  alJ  from  mour- 
 But  Jofeph  to  his  Brethren  foon  returning,       (ningj 
 Saith J I  am  'jojc-ph,  doth  my  Father  livef 
 Fear  not  my  Brethren,  I  you  all  forgive. 
 As  when  a  Kif^g^  that  he  difcover  may 
 Some  Traitcrous  pior,  his  body  doth  array 
 In  fuch  a  habir^  as  none  can  defcry 
 Him  from  one  of  that  dole  Conrpirscyj 
 Till  hearing  at!  the  Trairors  Conjuring, 
 He  fhews  himfelf  to  be  their  Lord  and  Ktyig'^ 
 So  that  they  all  fland  mute,  and  in  a  maze. 
 And  gafily  one  upon  another  gsze; 
 So  fland  t  he  ten,  one  looking  on  another ,     ' 
 To  fee  fo  high  their  late  betrayed  Brother  ; 
 Thus  at  the  laH:,  the  wicked  men  (ball  hide 
 Their  face  at  Sight  of  him  they  CritcifiM  ^ 
 When  on  his  Throne  his  glory  they  bdioki     .; 
 Like  Jofph's,  who  fhall  like  to  him  be  fold. 
 But  Berytn/w  poor  harmlefs  innocent, 
 After  he  had  indurM  this  chadifemcnr, 
 At  hearing  Jofcph's  name  lifts  up  his  ey?. 
 And  Louder  now  for  Joy  than  Sorro"^ xn^s  i 
 So  (hall  the  innocent  at  !a ft  appear. 
 To  be  abfolved  by  their  BrrAher  dear. 
 
 Then  Jofefh  faith.  My  Brethren  all  draw  near, 
 I  am  your  Brother  Jo/eph,  do  not  fear. 
 That  very  Jofeph  you  to  ^i^ypt  fold, 
 But  be  not  griev'd  therewith,  nor  do  it  hold 
 A  cruel  thing,- for  God  me  fcnt  before. 
 For  to  prefervc  your  lives  with  millions  more; 
 This  is  the  fecond  year,  five  are  behind. 
 When  none  (hall  reap  ,  or  mow,  or  (heafs  up  bind, 
 God  fent  me  to  preferve  your  Proge^j^ 
 And  fave  you  by  a  great  delivery;    ' 
 Not  yon,  I  fay^  but  God  me  hither  fent 
 And  made  me  here,  to  your  aftonifhment, 
 
 '  O04  Great 
 
3  8  The  third  Book  e/Iofcph. 
 
 Great  Pharaoh's  Father,  and  giv*n  free  command 
 
 Or  all  his  Houfe,  and  over  all  his  Land* 
 
 Hafl  to  my  Father,  tell  him  in  a  Word, 
 
 Thus  faith  thy  J ofeph,  God  hath  made  me  Lord 
 
 Of  EijpC'y  Tarry  not,  but  foon  qome  down, 
 
 And  thou  (hale  dwcl  on  Go(he>Js  fruitfuU  Down; 
 
 Thy  Children, Childrens  Children,  nnd  thy  Flockj 
 
 Beaih,A{Ie5.  Camels,allthyftoreandftock; 
 
 Lo  here  I  fudenance  for  thee  will  find  , 
 
 For  thofe  five  years  of  Famine  yet  behind  ; 
 
 Your  own  eys  fee,  and  Benjamins  bthM^ 
 
 2  ^  11  in  your  own  tongue  have  truly  told;  ,-^ 
 
 My  glory  here  then  to  my  Father  tell, 
 
 As  you  have  feen,  and  hither  haft  to  dweK 
 
 So  weeping  he  upon  the  neck  doth  fall 
 
 Of  Bc>:jamin^  and  he  on  his,  fo  all 
 
 He  kiffes,  and  doth  after  with  them  talk 
 
 Familiarly,  as  they  together  walk. 
 
 As  when  a  Treafure  in  the  earth  is  found, 
 
 Fames  ymnfet  diOi\i'\iht  and  near  rcfound/ 
 
 So  Tame  this  news  in  Ph:raoh*s  Court  doth  tell. 
 
 Which  pleaded  him  a nd  all  his  Servants  well; 
 
 Tiicrt  .-ore  he  thus  to  Jofeph^  Out  of  hand 
 
 Thv  Brethren  fend  with  Corn  into  their  Land, 
 
 To  i>ang  their  Father  and  his  Family, 
 
 Th.:t  they  may  eat  my  Lands  fertility; 
 
 B  fides,  I  will  my  Charrets  thou  command 
 
 For  to  convey  your  Father  to  my  L«iW, 
 
 With  Wives  and  Children,  let  them  leave  their  ftuff, 
 
 /Egypt  (hall  furnifli  rhem  with  ftore  enough. 
 
 Then  Jofeph  hading  them  away  to  fend, 
 Peace  by  the  way  doth  thus  to  them  commend; 
 T  will  not  now  tilings  paft  comoiemoratc, 
 Your  grief  and  forrow  more  to  aggravate; 
 For G'Whath  tqrn'd  your mor^ of^fiefznd  fadntff  ^ 
 Unco  a  daj  cfFcaliwg^  loj^  and  Gladnrfs^ 
 
 Yet 
 
The  third  Bock  (?/Iofepb.  39 
 
 Yet  patiently  my  loving  Counfel  hear , 
 And  by  your  former  harms  learn  to  beware ; 
 Let  not  that  wicked  Envur  of  mankind, 
 Breed  difcords,ftrifs,  or  quarrels  in  your  mind. 
 Nor  queftion  or  difpute  one  with  another. 
 Who's  moft  in  fault  for  felling  of  your  Brotheri 
 Each  of  his  fin  unfeignedly  repent. 
 And  give  God  glory  who  me  hither  fent. 
 And  all  the  evill  you  againft  me  thought. 
 Turning  to  good  this  great  deliverance  wronghrj 
 I  fend  now  Ckarrets  by  the  Kings  Comniandj 
 To  bring  ray  aged  F^^thr  to  this  Lani* 
 Ten  Affes  laden  all  with  E^yfts  good, 
 I  likewife  fend  my  Father  for  his  food; 
 And  ten  She-Afles  lade  with  Corn  and  Bread, 
 That  by  the  way  you  may  thereof  be  ted ; 
 Changes  oi  Raj  went  I  CO  each  affi  gn, 
 Thcfe/z/^  my  deareft  Benjamin  are  thine; 
 With  thefe  three  hundred  Silver  peece^;  fd 
 lie  hath  his  right,  yet  you  no  wrong  Ido- 
 Let  not  your  eye,  caufe  I  am  good,  be  illj 
 '  ris  realon  good  enough  to  fay  /  veiH* 
 Yet  Nature  may  inform  you  of  another  jl  :  :: 
 
 He  is  my  only  iSrother  by  my  Mother, 
 Envy  him  not  becaufe  he  in  mine  eys 
 Moft  gracious  is,  nor  fhall  he  you  defpife; 
 Brethren  in  love  and  amity  combind. 
 Are  like  fmall  fticks  we  in  a  Fagot  bind- 
 No  force  them  bends  while  they  remain  iaon^, 
 \  Dif-joynd  a  Child  will  break  them' all  aione< 
 Haft,  Fare-you-well ,  fall  not  out  by  the  way, 
 W'offend  againft  my  Father  by  your  ftay* 
 Lo  !  thus  they  fly  from  Nile  to  Jord&ns  (hore. 
 To  tell  their  Father  all  you  heard  before. 
 
 Je/^/^^  is  yet  alive,  faith  ^//i/rj^,  and 
 Is  (joverfiior  of  all  5\ing  PW^f^)5>*s  Land, 
 
 A!as! 
 
49  7i?;<?  third  Book  of  lofcph, 
 
 Alas !  faith  Jacob y  come  you  me  to  flout, 
 Jofeph  now  lives  in  Heav'n  I  make  no  doubc. 
 He  was  the  Prey  longfince  of  cruel  beaft, 
 I  have  his  bloody  Coat  flill  in  my  Cheft. 
 
 Ah  .'  faith  Dan^  to  Gods  glory  \Vec  conftfs, 
 (Who  hacli  laid  open  all  our  wickednefsj' 
 That  we  our  Brother  out  of  envy  fold. 
 When  we  at  Dothan  paftured  our  fold, 
 To  l(hmaeRt€s^  who  after  for  their  gain. 
 In  Egyvt,  where  we  found  him,  fold  again; 
 His  colotirM  Coat  which  d#th  with  thee  abide. 
 We  dipt  in  blood  our  fouleft  fin  to  hide; 
 Lo  I  now  thy  Sons  on  knees  before  thee  fall. 
 And  for  this  our  offence  beg  pardon  allj 
 ^ofefhtimsk^ii  our  trefpas  did  remit. 
 Therefore  good  Father  alfo  pardon  it» 
 
 As  Indian  Merchant  on  a  iudden  told. 
 His  Ship  isfafe  arrivM  all  lade  with  Gold, 
 Which  long  fince  to  be  caft  away  he  fear*d  , 
 Becaufe  he  never  tidings  of  her  heard, 
 Firfl  wavers,  and  It  hardly  can  believe. 
 Fearing  left  he  too  fudden  credence  give; 
 But  when  he  fees  the  Porters  bringing  in    ' 
 The  golden  Oar^zn^  Ingot s  ^Aoih  begin 
 J^or  to  revive ;  Ev*n  fo  old  Ifraei 
 Mifdoubts,  when  firft  he  heard  his  Children  tell 
 iOf  Iofeph*s  life  and  glory  great  at  Nile ; 
 But  when  he  thus  had  wavered  a  while. 
 And  faw  the  goodly  Charrcts  Jofe^h  fent. 
 To  bring  him  and  his  houfhold  from  their  Tent 
 To  EgJ^t*,  and  his  deareft  Benjamin 
 Confirmed  it  all  for  truth  ,  behold  within, 
 .The  old  mans  fpirit  doth  agaiiwevif  c. 
 And  cries  with  joy,  lofefh  is  yet  alive, 
 God  pardon  you  all  your  Iniquity, 
 3  will  go  down  and  fee  him  e*r  I  die. 
 
 Thff  End  of  the  third  Book^  »/ Jofeph* 
 
{ — ^ 
 
 4r 
 
 The  Fourth  Book  of 
 fOSE'PH. 
 
 NOw  lacgh  tents  abound  with  fuch  great  ftore 
 Of  corn,  which  they  had  wanted  heretofore  , 
 As  if  God  had  heav'ns  ^indo^s  opened. 
 And  to  his  chofen  thence  had  rained  bread  i 
 Which  he  as  liberally  participates 
 Unto  his  Neighbours  and  Confederates^ 
 Of  whom  then  taking  leave,  foon  as  he  might. 
 He  to  Berjheba  journyed  that  night , 
 Full  twenty  miles ;  where  freed  from  heathen  eyes. 
 He  to  his  Godm^x.  offer  facrifice, 
 And  thus  iarth  to  his  fons.  This  is  the  place. 
 Where  the  Egyptian  ^g^r  firft  found  grace. 
 When  as  Gcds  J^ȣ^/raade  her  fee  the  well. 
 Which  fa  v*d  the  life  of  her  and /y7;?»^.'/ : 
 Here  let  us  up  to  Godsn  Altar  rear, 
 For  facrifice,  that  God  which  did  appear 
 To  Abraham  and  I/aac^^  alfo  may 
 To  us  appear  as  well  upon  our  way. 
 And  in  our  Journey  us  dired  aright : 
 Then  in  a  Dream  and  P^ifan  of  the  night. 
 When  deep  his  bodies  fenfes  feized  ali, 
 God  to  his  5^;^/ doth  lacob^  laceb^  calL 
 /  £(in  the  God  unto  thy  fathers  known^ 
 Then  fear  not  into  Egypt  to  qo  down  , 
 For  J  "^iltgi^-wlth  thee^  and  m;ike  thee  therg 
 A  m'ghtjf  pop/e :  Therefore  do  not  f ear  ^ 
 
/;?  The  fourth  Book  o/Jofcph . 
 
 But  the  J  fhdl  corns  again :  And  lok^\\%  hand 
 Shall  chfe  thrni  efts  in  the  Mgjptian  land. 
 
 Then  early  from  Berjheba  all  arofe. 
 And  in  the  ^aggom  all  themfclves  difpofe, 
 (Sixty  fcv'n,  Which,  with  lofeph  and  his  foris 
 Before  in  Egyft^  jufl:  to  fev'*nty  comes ) 
 Leaving  the  high  raontanous  craggy  hils 
 OF  Pharan^  near  t\x*  Arabian  rocky  (hcis 
 Vpon  their  left  hand;  bend  down  on  the  right , 
 To  that  which  the  Egyptian  fea  is  hight. 
 Where  a  plain  way  from  thence  to  Egypt  guides 
 O'r  Sihor^  which  from  Canaan  it  divides 
 By  Southy  as  great  Euphrates  doth  divide 
 Chalde^by  North, from  Canaans fruitfqU  fidc« 
 Here  /<?ro^,  who  doth  all  occafions  take , 
 Gods  promife  certain  to  his  fons  to  make^ 
 Thus  tels  them.  By  this  River's  bordered 
 The  land  God  promifed  to  Abrams  feed ; 
 From  this^H^7;>^<*^»  River,all  the  to^^ 
 1  King.  Are  giv^n  us,  cv'n  to  great  Euphrates  fands  3 
 '^^ '"    A  King  o^/udahs  feed  one  day  (hall  reign 
 
 O'r  all  from  Sihor,  to  the  river  matn ; 
 f/"  «i-  ^^^^^^  0"  ^^^^^  ^^^^  border  ludahsfdey 
 led  there  Efiphra'es,  Dan  :  fo  fure  as  God  did  guide 
 ^EgipT  -lofeph  to  Egypt  to  provide  us  grain, 
 A  City  (o  He  to  this  land  will  bring  us  back  again  : 
 Miicd.    j^^^  ^^  ^.j^jg  Proverb  men  (hall  underftand , 
 From  Dan  unto  Berfheba  all  the  iand^ 
 Oh  how  can  you  incredible  this  deem. 
 Who  have  in  Egypt  lofephrg/ory  fecn ; 
 That  harder  was  than  this  to  bring  to  pafs ; 
 This  promisM,  but  that  never  hoped  was; 
 
 Then,  fording  Sthor,  they  through  Kedar  pafr, 
 ccn  If  A  Coutitry  barren,  favage,  wild  and  wafts 
 js. '      Call'dfo  o( K edar^  [on  oU/hmael: 
 Here  Ltcob  eke  occafion  feeks  to  tell 
 
The  fourth  Book  o/Iofcph.  43. 
 
 Of  Gods  great  goodnefs  them  a  to^^  to  give. 
 Not  fruitlcfs,  barren,  where  the  dwellers  Jivi?, 
 A?  here,  of  Covin,  Rapine,  Theft  and  Spoil, 
 But  a  raoft  pleafant  and  well-water'd  foil. 
 Where  plenty  both  of  corn  and  wine  do  grow « 
 A  /W  which  doth  with  Milk  and  Honey  flow. 
 Befides,  what  csufc  have  we  our  God  to  praife. 
 Who  us  conduds  through  thefe  moft  dangerous  wayi 
 Amidft  thefe  Robbers^without  fear  or  dread. 
 As  late  he  at  Berjhda  promifed? 
 
 There  was  a  City,  built  of  coftly  matter,  oflrad-^ 
 
 A  goodly  outfide,  but  it  wanted  water ;  na.T/' 
 
 Like  to  a  lamp,  that  ftiineth  fair  and  bright,  chores. 
 
 But  wants  the  Oyl,  that  ftiould  maintain  the  light : 
 Or  like  fome  outfide  gallants  complement. 
 That  lacks  minds  inward  grace  and  ornament, 
 l^'rom  Kedar  pa  fling  towards  Cajtti^  mount, 
 They  up  unto  a  goodly  City  mount. 
 Where  flood  a  goodly  ttmpk^  dedicate 
 To  Jupiter^  thence  Capf^  nominate  ; 
 Not  that  huge  mount  which  doth  in  Syria  lie,  ^a^^lV' 
 
 Which  one  reports  to  be  near  four  miles  high ;  ^*^\ 
 
 This  City  ev'n  on  Egy^ts  border  (lands. 
 
 And  is  the  utmoft  of  the  Hagarian  lands : 
 I  Here  lacob  grieves  at  tbe  abhomination 
 I  Of  his  near  kindred,  and  his  neighbour  nation, 
 
 His  unckle  l(lomael^  who  with  him  came 
 
 By  H^gur  from  the  loynes  afAhabaw^ 
 
 And  in  his  flefti  received  the  CircHmciJton^ 
 
 But  fa!2n  to  foulefl  heathenifti  fuperflition. 
 
 Oh  my  dear  Tons !  beware,  I  fpeak  to  all. 
 
 How  you  to  foul  Idolatry  doe  fall^ 
 
 Leaving  that  God^which  made  the  heav'ns  alone. 
 
 To  worlhip  Idols  made  of  wood  and  ftone. 
 
 And,  by  religion  of  mans  vain  devifing, 
 
 1  Adore  Mgon^  PUnets,  Stars^  Fire  and  Sm-rifiiig^ 
 "      Hov/ 
 
4^  The  fourth  Book  of  iolcpn. 
 
 How  are  we  bound,  above  all  other  nations. 
 To  blefs  God  for  our  often  prefervations  ? 
 But  moft  for  tfiat  God  us  hath  giv'n  his  light. 
 And  choicn  us  to  worftiip  hire  aright , 
 This  Idol^  whom  thefe  heathen  Cajim  name. 
 With  Hammoft  Inciter's  the  very  fame, 
 In  Canaan  worftiipt;  ev*n  that  curfed  Cham^ 
 From  whence  the  Canaanites  receive  their  narne^ 
 Whom  holy  Noah  in  malicious  pride  ^ 
 As  Ijhmael  good  Ifaack,^  did  deride. 
 
 Now  five  times  had  AurorM  trefles  bright 
 Chafed  away  the  fliadows  of  the  night, 
 S/nce  lacob  came  from  Behron  with  his  train, 
 And  now  was  journying  on  his  way  again 
 To  Eg)p^  when  thus  Rnhen  doth  begin. 
 That  place  where  we  laft  lodged,  is  the  Inn, 
 Where  Gad  his  money  in  his  fack  did  find. 
 When  he  for  provender  did  it  unbind; 
 Lo  there  before  us  is  the  fruitfuil  down 
 OiGofhen^  there  above  is  R  im'fts  town  ,♦ 
 Not  one  more  pleafant,  fpacious,  fruitfull  plain 
 For  pafture  is  in  all  the  world  again; 
 There  Pharaohs  pleafure  is,  that  we  iliall  keep 
 Our  Camels,  Afles,  ail  our  flocks  and  fheep  : 
 Not  ten  miki  thence  are  thofe  two  Cities  greatj 
 Which  Pharaoh  holds  for  his  Imperial  Seut^ 
 The  one  call'd  0;?,  Egypt  s  Aietro^oln, 
 The  other  Mtmphis,  whofe  large  circuit  is 
 By  mealurc  feventeen  miles  and  more  about, 
 But  On  is  three  miles  larger  out  of  doubt ; 
 One  with  three  thoufand  paces  meafure  may 
 Betwixt  thofe  two  huge  Cities,  the  midway 
 There's  lofephs  country  houfe,  whence  to  the  Court: 
 He  at  his  eafe  and  pleafure  may  refort. 
 Whether  the  King  lie  at  his  Memphian  Bowers, 
 Or  m  his  (lately  On$  more  princely  Towers, 
 
 " Xf 
 
ThefourthBook  of  lofeph.'  ^^ 
 
 [f  God  (hall  guide  us  in  our  journey  right^'^  ^ 
 rhou  maid  fee  yet  thy  lofephs  face  ere  night? 
 rhen  lacoif  fends  out  ludah ,  from  that  place 
 fo  loreph^  rightly  to  dired  the  face 
 Of  Imcolf,  and  of  all  his  fons  and  train, 
 \nd  haflen  back  to  bring  him  word  againi 
 
 Then  lofeph  takes  his  Chariot, for  to  meet    ] 
 i^is  aged  Father,  and  him  duely  greet ; 
 ^s  when  good  lacoi;  at  Mahanaim  met 
 Sods  hoft^  in  order  like  an  Army  fct, 
 vVhen  Efatc  threatned  his  la^  overthrow^  lofcpimi 
 
 Jo  doth  the  glory  of  thefe  worthies  fhow,  ad mc»- 
 
 A^hen  they  do  both  in  Gofhens  plain  appear,  pida» " 
 
 Vnd  each  unto  the  other  draweth  near ;  lacobo  ; 
 
 ^ofeph  begins  to  welcom  his  great  Ure^  "loi)^. 
 
 \nd  lAcob  lofephs  glory  doth  admire,  Antiq. 
 
 \nd  but  they  Uol-wo/pjip  both  abhorred,  ^^'  ** 
 
 rhey  one  another  furely  had  adored. 
 Vs'when  this  Ucoh  after  twenty  years 
 /Vith  L^^.ba72  fpcnt,  to  Ifaack,  old  appears, 
 !'hey  each  in  other  wondroufly  delight ; 
 o  do  thefe  Worthies  two  in  mutual  fight- 
 ofeph  forgets  his  honour  and  his  ftate, 
 ^nd  weeps  on  lacoh  neck,  ev*n  as  he  fate; 
 ^nd  Ifrael  hrgtis  he  was  his  fon^ 
 ^nd  as  did  lofephs  would  to  him  have  done. 
 Clouds  may^  not  Mufes  can  expreffe  their  tcars^ 
 0  long  forbearance  mutually  endears 
 "hem  each  to  other,  when  old  Ifrad 
 'o  lofepbWith^  Since  I  may  with  thee  dwell, 
 ind  fee  thee  in  fuch  great  profperity, 
 -o  !  willingly  I  am  concent  to  die. 
 o  have  I  fcen  a  fair  and  tender  Lam^, 
 urloynd  by  wicked  hand  from  loving  Dam  ; 
 ong  mift^  at  lafl-,  when  both  do  meet  again, 
 v^ich  loving  Bkatings  fill  both  hills  and  plain* 
 
 Yea 
 
^  4«  The  fourth  Book  of  loi'eph. 
 
 jofephusYea  fo  th'old  man  with  joy  was  extafi'd, 
 
 ibidem.  It  wanted  little  but  he  there  had  dy'd; 
 
 But  pious  lofeph^  with  great  care  and  pain, 
 By  chafing  brought  him  to  himlelf  again. 
 Both  being  then  in  Iofeph*s  ChAriot  plac  d  , 
 lacoh  begins  thus  with  Gods  favours  paft. 
 
 Many  all  done  by  ChaKce  and  Fortune  decm^ 
 And  Httic  of  Gods  Providence  efteem, 
 I  wifti  fuch  would  in  all  my  life  obfervej 
 How  all  mens  adions  here  Gods  purpofe  ferve  : 
 It  was  not  Chinee  made  Efau  fet  at  nought 
 His  birthright,  for  a  mefle  o^Pctage  bought, 
 Nor  the  device  alone  of  my  dear  mother , 
 That  got  my  fathers  BleJJlng  from  my  brother , 
 For*s  anger  kindled  thus,  it  forth  me  drives 
 To  Laban^^h^tt  I  children  get  and  wives. 
 *TwasL^^<!!»/ churl iftinefs  and  avarice 
 Inrich'd  me,  by  a  new  and  ftrange  device, 
 Colours  before  \\\s  yeaning  Evf>s  to  fpread  , 
 Which  made  white  Sheep  bring  L^mh  difcoloured ; 
 Thefe  he  to  me  for  wages  did  allow. 
 And  fuddeuly  they  to  a  number  grow. 
 The  murmuring  ofLabans  foris  conllrain 
 Me  with  my  houfhold  to  haft  home  again  , 
 Whom  Laban  follows  with  an  angry  heart, 
 But  God  us  made  good  friends  before  we  part. 
 Lo  1  Efaus  fear  at  Peniei  by  night. 
 Brought  me  to  wreftle  with  the  Lord  of  might, 
 Whole  blefling  fo  away  his  fury  chafes, 
 He  turns  his  threats  to  kiffes  and  embraces. 
 Simeon  and  Levi,  cruel  indruraents, 
 From  Sichem  made  me  to  remove  my  tents 
 To  Bethel^  where  my  houfe  o^ Idols  clcar'd, 
 I  up  an  Altar  to  th'  Almighty  rear'd, 
 And  paid  ray  Tenths  as  I  to  him  did  fwear^ 
 When  firfl  from  Efau*s  wrath  I  fled  for  fear. 
 
 And! 
 
 a\    . 
 
The  fourth  Bock  of  lofeph.  ^/ 
 
 And  faw  a  Ladder  which  from  Earth  did  tend 
 
 To  Heav*hy  whereby  the  j^fj^els  did  defccnd  j  _ 
 
 Now  laft  thy  Brethrens  envy  fpite  and  hate 
 
 By  felling  thee,  have  favM  my  life  and  ftate. 
 
 For  but  for  thee  we  all  had  perifhed 
 
 Among  the  Canaanites  for  want  of  Bread. 
 
 That  God  causM  all  thefe  things,  it  is  mod:  dcar^ 
 
 For  in  the  mofl  he  did  to  me  appear , 
 
 fAs  late  when  I  to  ^gypt  fhould  defcend^ 
 
 pTLus  all  doth  on  Gods  Providence  depend* 
 
 Long  did  I  thee  as  dead  lament  and  plain,' 
 And  never  hopM  to  fee  my  Son  again^ 
 And  iio  did  Ifaackjh^  dear  Grandfire  grieve  y 
 iBut  never  would  that  thou  wer*c  dead,  believe, 
 f  n  God  he  was  fo  confident  and  bold, 
 And  in  the  dreams  which  thou  before  hadfl:  told. 
 As  if,  though  blind,  he  had  foreleen  this  day; 
 But  now  in  heav'nly  loys  he  lives  for  ay; 
 Some  ten  years  (ince,  him  dying  in  his  bed, 
 I  and  my  Brother  E/^«  buried. 
 Oh  1  my  dear  Son,  my  foul  is  much  delighted  ? 
 As  to  relate,  ev'n  fo  to  hear  recited 
 
 ods  goodnefs  towards  his ,  therefore  unfold 
 -iow  God  preferv'd  thee,  fincc  thy  Brethren  fold 
 rhee  to  the  Ifhmaelites^  for  thrice  feav'n  year 
 \xt  pafl:,fincel  leaft  news  of  thee  did  hear, 
 3ood  Jacob  had  no  fooner  made  an  end, 
 3uc  Jofeph  was  as  ready  to  commend 
 3  ods  care  and  goodnefs  in  hisprcfervatlon 
 ^rom  all  his  troubles^in  this  next  narration. 
 
 I  know  not  whether  by  their  fdult  or  Fate,^         '3 
 t  oft  befaileth  great  men  in  the  State^ 
 lich.  wife,  and  happie  in  their  Princes  grace, 
 Domely  in  body,  beautifull  in  face*  • 
 
 To  be  conjoyned  to  a  wanton  Wife ,  ' 
 
 Vhich  fowreth  all  the  fweetnefs  of  their  life  • 
 
 Pp  Thfe 
 
48  The  fourth  Bock  of  lofcph. 
 
 This  was  thtpult  or  Fcrtune  of  a  Veer 
 
 Q^Phardsh*s^  to  the  King  his  Mafler  dear} 
 
 My  Mafter  Poiip.-  <2r,  who.,  as  I  ween, 
 
 Had  in  his  youth  a  skilfull  Merchant  been> 
 
 And  Srewarded  ib  frugally  his  own. 
 
 That  Pharaoh  Wife,  to  whom  all  this  was  knc  wn. 
 
 Made  him  chidSteivard',  ^^  They  that  can  hold  faft 
 
 *"*■  Their  ^t^w,  their  Ainftcrs  Treafure  feldom  wall. 
 
 He  that  did  by  experience  undcrfland. 
 
 How  things  are  hotft  up,  bought  at  fecond  hand, 
 
 Hearing  that  Merchants  ftor\1  with  Spiccry 
 
 Were  come  to  Town  goes  his  ov;n  felf  to  buy 
 
 The  King  his  Maflcrs  and  his  own  provifion,  i 
 
 '^  Thrift  ftands  not  on  nice  Court-  like  (uperflition.   | 
 
 Araongfl:  fome  other  wares  there  to  be  fold, 
 
 A  fair  young  Hebr  w  L^dhc  doth  behold, 
 
 AdornM  and  fet  out  in  the  fairefV  guize. 
 
 As  horfes  to  be  fold  at  higher  prize; 
 
 A  price  once  pich'd,  and  I  by  running  tri'd. 
 
 As  fome  do  horfes^  e*r  they  buy  them^  ride. 
 
 Was  fold  to  Potipkar^  who  for  his  table 
 
 Me  bought*  5?  wc  our  horles  for  our  liable. 
 
 I  of  this  change  was  mod  exceeding  glad,  j 
 
 For  now  I  e^^fe  [or pain  and  f rave/had. 
 For  hard farf^  good',  but  as  a  grritefuH  mind 
 Returns  ay  thanks,  where  Benefics  they  find,, 
 So  did  I  ray  good  Lords  munilicence 
 Requite,  with  induftry  and  diligence ; 
 And  for  I  found  He  pieas'd  my  A-Ufier  bcft. 
 That  pleas'd  my  Mi/fr^fs  well,  above  the  rtft, 
 J  to  obferve  her  tvas  moll  diligent, 
 And  all  means  us'd  to  give  her  bed  content; 
 So  that  by  prudence  more  than  taking  pain  , 
 I  both  tHeir  Loves  and  Favours  fougljt  to  gain; 
 For  who  (0  will  obferve,  fliall  ever  find 
 Beltway  to  plcafe,  is  to  obferve  the  mind. 
 
 And  : 
 
The  fourth  Beck  of  lotcph.  9^ 
 
 And  the  aflfedion  of  men  of  State, 
 And  thereunto  therafelvc^  accommodate  5 
 Therefore  a  blifs  on  good  men  to  attend, 
 But  mifery  on  wicked  to  depend, 
 Both  prov'd  by  me^  who  for  my  fervice  true^ 
 Was  by  my  Lord  preferred  to  honour  due. 
 And  for  hke  krvice  to  my  wicked  Dame, 
 Was  brought  to  prifon,  obloquy  and  ihamca 
 This  my  Fair  A^lflris  (for  no  other  name 
 I  give  her  willing,  sy  to  hide  her  fname) 
 Some  mean  A'fechaHicks  Daughter  feems  to  be> 
 Firft  marcht  in  her  own  order  and  degree, 
 EutraisM  to  v/eulth  and  honour  from  theduflj, 
 Thinks  all  to  little  for  her  Prld:;  and  Lf*ff  ; 
 And  as   a  man  that  flands  on  Steeple  high. 
 His  f^v^/f  eril  doth  novw'  like  Crouds  defcry. 
 So  file  now  cLimbred  up  on  hsnonrs  Spire^ 
 Thinks  all  to  low  her  greatnefs  to  admire- 
 Soon  might  I  in  her  fcornfull  looks  defcry 
 Her  haughtinefs,  and  my  bafe  flavery. 
 But  bearing  then  an  honefl  gentle  mind, 
 Omit  no  fervice  that  may  favour  findj  -^ 
 
 Which  fo  fucceeds,  that  e*r  the  Crefcent  bright  ^^' 
 
 Had  fiird  her  horns  with  Brothers  borrowed  lights 
 1  by  my  diligence  of  her  ^\^  gain 
 SWC€Z  fmiling  l'Jo\s/\n^^2LAoi proud  difddin. 
 
 And  now  the  Envicpu  fflrir ,  v/hich  fought  of  late 
 To  ruine  by  niy  fathers  lov.>^  ray  ftate, 
 M  e  by  my  Mijlrefs  I'tfi  feeks  t  o  entra  p. 
 And  dandle  in  viU  finfull  pleafures  lap 
 Damn'd  ^ark^cfBel  I  Bafc  Cumterfet  of  love  ^ 
 And  thofe  purs  warming  flames  from  heav*n  above^ 
 Which  fo  true  1  overs  hearts  in  one  unite. 
 That  they  enjoy,  without  offence,  delight  ^ 
 Therefore  fF//(?  Love  like  Aion  is  fair  and  bright, 
 Z^///  like  aSirJ^/^^got  of  blackefl  night;. 
 
 ^  Pps  But 
 
So  The  fourth  Book  oflokph. 
 
 But  later  days^fince  Rapines  did  abound , 
 
 Do  Lnfl  and  Love  moft  wickedly  confound; 
 
 This  bafer  Luftfull  Love  the  Spirit  did  chufc, 
 
 (  As  he  did  firft  the  Serpent  to  abufe 
 
 The  weaker  Eve)  this  proudeft  dame  to  train  "J 
 
 To  taft  the  Fruit s  forbidden  by  deaths  pain. 
 
 And  kindling  in  her  eys  firfl:  luftfuU  fire. 
 
 This  Senfe  prefents  it  with  her  foul  defire 
 
 To  Reafons  brighter  eye,  which  foon  that  flame 
 
 Makes  to  return  into  her  Checks  with  (hame. 
 
 ^^^7^»  with  this  bafe  P-^^i^'^flrived  long, 
 
 But  one  weak,  as  the  other  groweth  ftrong  ; 
 
 Eut  nought  fo  checks  her  Pride  and  Conrfige  brave, 
 
 As  flooping  to  an  hated  Hebrew  Jlave; 
 
 That  (he  who  now  did  fit  in  higheO  grace, 
 
 Should  thus  her  honour  great  and  ftate  debafe, 
 
 As  to  become  a  f^ajjal  to  her  Slave; 
 
 **  Pride  many  womens  Chaftities  doth  fave. 
 
 But  now  the  violence  of  luftfull  flame 
 
 Had  fear'd  the  Reafon  o(tK Egyptian  Dame^ 
 
 Who  waiting  till  her  Lord  to  Court  was  gone. 
 
 Thus  fmiling,  fet  upon  me  all  alone. 
 
 Fair  Hebrevfs  Son,  whofe  equal  never  I 
 Yet  faw,  nor  do  I  think  Sol's  fearchingey 
 In  all  his  travels  from  the  Eaft  to  Weft, 
 A  Beauty  fees  with  thine  fit  to  conteft. 
 Not  that  thereby  1  underprize  mine  ow'n  , 
 Aline  no  SiipcrioH:%  Thi>ic  hath  never  known 
 An  Eqttd,  and  though  Fates  us  up  did  rear 
 In  fundry  Climates^  yet  fi nee  now  appear 
 In  one  Harifin,  S'ins  fo  equal  bright , 
 Let's  each  on  other  fhine  with  mutual  light; 
 Let  thy  bright  Beams  upon  my  Ikauty  (hine, 
 I  on  thee  will  refled  both  thine  and  mine; 
 Dear  Servant,  do  not  thou  my  grace  defpife , 
 Thee  I  alone  can  make  to  honour  rift; 
 
 Th«u 
 
The  fourth  Bookoflokph, 
 
 Thou  fceft  how  Potlphar  alone  doth  fland 
 
 In  Pharaohs  grace,  and  Rules  both  Court  and  Land; 
 
 To  thee  I  love,  I  dare  be  bold  to  fay, 
 
 I  Potiphgr ^tht  Court  and  Kingdom  iway  ; 
 
 See  then  thy  happinefSja.S'/^z'^  oflate, 
 
 In  me  to  rule  all  Egypt s  glorious  (late; 
 
 And  if  the  Vntes  us  fend  a  lucky  heir , 
 
 Which  may  like  to  his  Parents  feem  moft  fair, 
 
 All  hearts  he  by  thy  Beauty  (liall  command. 
 
 And  by  my  right  inherit  all  our  Land*, 
 
 Sweet  Iofefh^\ti  not  frownings  cloud  thy  face, 
 
 Sour  looks  thy  glorious  Beauty  do  difgrace. 
 
 Let's  take  the  occafion  now  we  are  alone. 
 
 As  Bodys,  To  our  Souls  to  joyn  in  one, 
 
 So  may  we  with  good  likelyhood  fuppofe 
 
 Bright  Phoehm  with  fair  Cjnthia  to  clofc , 
 
 When  Joyningfor  their  mutual  delight, 
 
 They  feem  Eclipfed  to  the  Vulgars  fight. 
 
 As  when  fome  luftfull  Prince  alone,  unfeen^ 
 Doth  tempt  xhtfaithfuJl handmaid  ofhis  Queen, 
 To  win  her  to  his  will  and  wicked  luft. 
 The  modcft  Maid  confidering  well  the  truft 
 Of  her  great  Dame ,  whom  if  (he  fo  offended. 
 She  juftly  were  of  God  and  Man  condemned, 
 Prays  and  intreats  his  awfull  Ma  jefty 
 Her  not  to  force  to  fuch  iniquity. 
 And  break  the  facred  Laws  (for  luftfull  rage) 
 Of  faithfull  trufl:  and  holy  marriage; 
 So  I  poor  wretchjWhofe  frelh  and  youthfull  cfiin 
 Fine  foftefl:  Down  to  fhadow  did  begin, 
 Strangely  araax*d  and  griev'd  at  this  foul  Jidy 
 Abhorring  ev*n  the  offer  as  the  ad. 
 Yet  with  all  due  refped  and  reverence , 
 Did  (hew  my  duty  and  obedience ; 
 And  thus  rcpliM,  Dear  Miftrefs^  you  (hall  find 
 Me  ready  ay  to  fatisfie  your  mind, 
 
 Pp3  In 
 
In  all,  where  I  may  juflly  you  obey  ,  A' 
 
 And  not  my  lieav'nly  Mi^fters  will  gainfay;  ^1 
 
 My  Mafter  all  commies  unto  ray  hand,  ^ 
 
 Nor  knoweth  he  how  his  own  (late  doth  fland,  \ 
 
 No  man  is  greater  in  his  houfe  than  1 , 
 
 Nor  doth  he  to  my  cuflody  deny 
 
 Ought  but  thy  felf  ,becaufe  thou  art  his  Wife, 
 
 His  only  comfort,  dear  delight,  and  life  ; 
 
 How  can  I  to  this  fin  then  condektnd. 
 
 And  not  againfl  my  Fathers  God  oftend  ? 
 
 The  firaple  rude,  faith  (he,  a  fin  it  call. 
 But  here  at  Court,  'tis  no  offence  at  all; 
 Thofe  that  are  mofi  fevere  againfl  this  Vice, 
 Delight  it  raofl.  Oh  'tis  a  deep  device 
 Of  roUtielans^  to  make  a  Law, 
 To  hold  their  Children,  Wives,  and  Fools  in  aw, 
 When^hrv,  than  keep  it,  nothing  lefs  intend, 
 But  at  ihei'  plealures  diverfly  offend; 
 I  know  not  ore  brave  fpirit  in  l'hjirao/,*s  Court, 
 That  rhis  efleems  of  other  than  a  fport, 
 And  yet  their  Fair,  Young5Lurry  Able  Wives, 
 Mufr  like  reclufe:-  V^r^l-a  lead  their  lives; 
 For  my  ^T^rt  i  have  learned  this  by  kind. 
 Such  measure  as  men  meet  us,  they  fiiall  find; 
 Then  Bluih.ng  (he  doth  Tears  hiie  Pearls  diflill. 
 For  (he  had  Tears  and  Blufhes  at  her  will. 
 
 But  1 « cpli'd,  Gjod  Mad.^.n,,  be  content, 
 I  cannot  lo  your  arguments  confent; 
 To  prove. trom  Gr-^-itnefs^  L-^wfutnefs  to  cvill, 
 Is  for  to  draw  a  pattern  from  the  Devil^ 
 Who  is  the  greateft  Worldly  Potentate , 
 Yet  no  excuie  'tis  him  to  imitate ; 
 For  great  mens  faults  they  are  unfcarchM^  unknown 
 To  me,  I  have  enough  to  mend  mv  own; 
 They  that  ievercly  judge  fin^yct  delight 
 Therein^  they  judge  themfelves,  and  yet  judge  right; 
 
 '  And 
 
rbefcurthBGokofjolcpn:  ~1T 
 
 And  who  do  thus  Gods  judgments  jufl  abufe, 
 Muft  never  hope  thac  Ore  tnfs  fliall  cxcufc; 
 Will  you,  becaufe  men  wrong  your  lex,  offend 
 Your  .'^'Jaker  >  God  iuch  wiLkedneis defend; 
 Embrace  true  challity  oi  flefh  and  mind  , 
 Which  honours  men,  and  graced^  womankind. 
 
 But  notwichftanding  (he,  from  day  to  day. 
 Me  woos ,  yet  would  I  not  her  voice  obey, 
 But  fhunM,  by  all  good  means,  her  company. 
 Tilt  one  day  fhc  occafion  did  efpy , 
 3  being  in  my  clofet  all  alone, 
 And  in  the  houfe  not  of  the  houfhold  one. 
 Then  ail  enrag'dwith  Fnry^  heat  and  Lujir^ 
 Like  hungry  Hawk  that  hath  a  Patridgc  truft, 
 She  on  my  garment  ceas*d  immodeftly. 
 And  cri'd,  come  fleep  with  me,  or  elfe  I  die. 
 
 Not  Rachel's  Ufs^  my  Brethrens  rctgCy  nor  yet 
 The/i-^r  ofFardneV^\v\g  in  the  pit. 
 Nor  MidUns  hondug-e  did  me  To  perplex, 
 As  now  this  womans  furious  Luii  doth  vex, 
 Who  as  the  aHcl  Serr.em's  laid  to  wind 
 About  the  noble  Elcpbanr  by  kind, 
 So  winds  this  w  ckel  Mcrjfler^  womnrt?  fliame. 
 About  me,  to  my  ;brrow,  and  her  blame ; 
 What  (hall  I  fiy  ?  (he  me  too  fall  doth  hold. 
 Shall  I  cry  out  ?  for  (hame  be  it  not  told 
 A  manlike  heart  d'lA  for  a  womaa  cry; 
 Oh  who  can  but  bewail  my  miferyl 
 Should  I  but  now  to  dalliance  confent , 
 Me  folloivs  honour,  pleafure,  worlds  content:, 
 But  if  that  I  this  offer'd  grace  rejed 
 Bondage,  difgrace,  a  Prifon  I  exped; 
 But  fearing  more  divine  revenging  hand, 
 Than  rack,  difgrace,  imprifonracnt  or  band. 
 Taking  more  pleafure  in  a  Confcience  found,  «• 
 Than  all  wealth,  honours,  joys  (he  did  prof  oand, 
 
 Pp4  Ac- 
 
Acquit  my  body,  though  I  left  behind  Jm 
 
 My  garment,  and  out  of  the  room  do  wind;  p 
 
 So  have  I  feen  fome  modeft  Country  Maid^ 
 
 With  forae  uncivil  ufage  muchdifmaid,  fll 
 
 Clofely  her  Apron  firings  to  L*efcape,  untie, 
 
 And  left  it  with  the  Clown  away  to  fly. 
 
 Who  can  the  Leopard's  fell  rage  difplay  , 
 
 Chafing  a  Pilgrim  fafi  upon  the  way, 
 
 And  laying  on  his  Cloak  her  cruel  paws , 
 
 Ev'n  ready  to  devour  him  in  her  jaws. 
 
 Who  firuck  with  fudden  terror  and  affright, 
 Forfakes  his  Cloak,  and  fcapes  by  winged  flight. 
 May  tell  the  rage  of  this  moft  cruel  Dame, 
 Who  now  hath  nothing  left  but  fpite  and  fliame; 
 .Then  raging,  that  her  Beamy  which  fiie  priz'd 
 Above  all  others,  fliould  be  fo  dclpis'd , 
 She  calls  her  Servants  in,  and  to  them  told  , 
 How  that  bafe  Hebrevp  flave  was  grown  fo  bold. 
 And  prowd  j  of  hers,  and  her  dear  husbands  grace. 
 That  now  he  did  afpire  into  his  place. 
 And  would  have  flept  with  her,  had  (he  not  cri'd. 
 All  which  his  garment  left  here  teftifi  d  , 
 Which  up  untill  her  Lords  return,  file  laid. 
 Then  with  my  Coat  her  malice  fiie  difplaid ; 
 For  Which  my  Lord  me  into  prifon  caft  , 
 My  days  in  pain  and  mifery  to  waft; 
 Thus  hghtly  crediting  the  accufation, 
 And  his  falfe  Wives  moft  guilefull  fimulation, 
 He  by  his  rafiinefs  loft  a  Servant  juft, 
 And  fiill  maintains  a  Strumpets  Pride  and  Luft. 
 
 But  as  a  fix-fquar*d  Die5or  carved  ftone. 
 How  ever  caft,  ftands  ftill  upright,  all  one,  ij 
 
 So  was  I  conftant  in  Advnfety^ 
 As  reiolute  in  my  Profperity ,  ■ !  Cl 
 
 That  God  which  me  had  erft  delivered 
 "From  Brethren)  F^ry^  and  me  honoicd 
 
 In 
 
The  fourth  Book  of  loleph*  5 1 
 
 n  time  gf  my  un  juft  Captivity, 
 
 ie  leaves  not  now  in  this  Calamity. 
 Oh  happy  they  I  whofe  Confcience  themacqmtj 
 
 :hat  here  ihcy /tip r vprffng fordoing  right^ 
 
 ;o  but  a  while  Godf  Icafurc  they  attend , 
 
 [hey  lure  (hall  have  a  good  and  happy  end; 
 
 .et  Tyrants  rage  ,  they  God  as  gentle,  kiad, 
 
 In  Prifon  as  in  Paradice  do  find; 
 
 iTVhcrefore  though  I  was  of  my  Coat  bereft, 
 
 V!y  Matters  Grace  and  Favour,  and  now  kit 
 
 [n  (linking  dungeon,  yet  I  felt  no  harm, 
 
 God  gave  me  power  my  lailers  hands  to  charm  ; 
 
 And  fent  me  in  the  Prifon*  Keepers  fight 
 
 Favour  and  grace  for  Potiphars  defpight; 
 
 For  now  that  former  diligence,  which  gaia*d 
 
 Mq  tavour  with  my  Lord,  like  truft  obtaia'd 
 
 Me  in  the  Prifon,  fo  that  to  my  carCj 
 
 Lo  all  the  Prifoners  committed  arc; 
 
 The  Keeper  looks  to  nought  under  his  hand, 
 
 God  ever  profpers  all  I  did  command. 
 About  this  feafon ,  as  it  oft  befalls. 
 
 Great  Favorites  in  Courts  have  fuddenfaO^ 
 
 3y  their  own  Faults,  or  others  Accufatioa, 
 
 Or  by  their  Lords  diflike  and  alteration 
 O^ Favorites ;  Two  Lords  ot  high  regard 
 
 In  Pharaoh's  Court,  committed  are  to  Ward; 
 The  Keeper  thefc  doth  to  my  truft  commend. 
 That  I  with  diligence  fhould  them  attend: 
 Thefe  wanton  Courtiers  which  had  formerly 
 Liv'd  in  all  plenty,  eafe,  and  jollity, 
 Acknowledging  nor  ferving  other  God 
 T  han  Pharaoh^  and  now  chaft*ned  with  his  Rod, 
 As  without  Souls  this  change  of  Fortune  bear, 
 But  I  by  all  means  fought  my  charge  to  chear. 
 And  told  them,  if  indeed  they  guiltlefs  were 
 The  jufteft  Kf»g  of  HeAv'n  would  find  them  dear; 
 
 And 
 
31  The  fourth  Book  of  lofcph. 
 
 And  if  they  had  through  frailty  him  offended, 
 ^o  t«f y  their  fins  confeffed  and  amended , 
 He  ev*n  as  willing  was  them  to  forgive. 
 As  they  in's  grace  and  favour  here  to  live ; 
 How  earthly  .<t?tgs  our  bodies  might  enchain. 
 But  ftill  our  Souls  in  Freedom  did  remain; 
 With  many  Tuch  good  words  I  fought  to  pleafe 
 My  charge,  who  found  therein  no  little  eafe, 
 And  grew  lefs  heavy;  till  both  in  one  night 
 Had  leveral  Dreams,  which  did  them  much  affright. 
 Which  foon  as  I  had  heard,  I  right  aread. 
 And  as  I  told,  fo  all  things  followed. 
 
 Such  Villon's  are  not  like  Dreams  Natural, 
 Which  ordinary  us  in  fleep  beiall. 
 They  \n  our  Souls  deeper  impreflions  leave, 
 Thin  fuch  as  commonly  the  Senfe  deceive, 
 Which  in  the  Fantafte  worfl  revel  keep. 
 When  Common- [eh fc  the  Majler  is  afleep, 
 And  do  th*  I  magitj  at  ion  ydi\n  delight 
 Sometime  with  hope,  fomcti-r^e  with  fear  flffiright, 
 Working  mofl  on  th?e  afccHons  of  the  mind. 
 When  Sleef  the  Bodies  Senfes  fafteft  bind. 
 For  ev'n  in  Sleep,  Grief,  loy  ^F ear. Hope ^  Hatc^  Love^ 
 The  Souls  affedions  wake,  and  lively  move. 
 God  often  by  fuch  Vifions  tells  men  plain. 
 What  things  they  ought  to  do^and  what  refrain; 
 Sometimes  by  Dreams  to  them  are  promt  fed 
 Great  Blejfi^gs^  and  great  Cnrfes  threatned^ 
 God  oft  thus  (hews  one  his  determination. 
 And  gives  another  the  interpretation; 
 Thus  unto  me  two  Dreams  by  night  he  told. 
 Which,  as  they  prove,  ray  Grandfire  did  unfold; 
 Thus  Fharaoh^s  Servants  firfl,  and  nexc  their  /C/»/, 
 See  things  to  come.hut  the  Interpreting 
 Was  given  to  me,  wnich  done,  I  told  -hem  plain-^ 
 Inter pretifj^  to  God  as  Dreams  pcrulti; 
 
 t  Anc 
 
y  The  fourth  Book  of  Mc^h,  57 
 
 And  now  who  thinks,  but  that  I  thought  it  long. 
 
 Yet  two  years  to  abide  in  prifon  ftrong  , 
 
 -After  I  had  fo  well  interpreted 
 
 H.s  Dream  whom  now  the  King  fo  honored? 
 
 tuuiaving  learn'd  with  Pounce  to  attend 
 
 Oods  lealure,  and  to  hope  unto  the  end, 
 
 Ev  n  at  that  time,  when  as  I  leaft  especfted. 
 
 So  long  olPhar.o,s.uf.b,a.er  negleded. 
 
 On  whom  they  all  attend  to  do  his  pleafure 
 By  one  poor  Dream  but  from  an  Heathen  K  ng. 
 Wha  s  long  before  decreed  to  pafs  doth  bringj 
 I  a.s  d  to  Grace  the  World  from  Famln  a  J' 
 Tl^f''  ^^'^  acknowledge  his  o'rf,  .ht 
 Wjhjajeys  weaknefs  is  diffovered    "    ' 
 Ind  God  IS  all  in  all  acknowledged' 
 £&'"  ^'•i'*  T  '"  ^^P^»tar,ce  Ircugh 
 or  ail  their  w.ckednels  which  they  had  wroueht- 
 ^nd  th,s  my  w.cked  Miftris  may  reclame       ^    ' 
 >nd  bring  her  to  acknowledgment  with  <hame 
 f  makemy  Mafterfee  hisfoolifh  palfion      ' 
 
 Iv  two  fi  V^^^'  ^"^  ■'"^^r  informrtion    ' 
 I  vl      c    ^^'''^'  P''°^e  true  which  I  had  told 
 ly  Fathers  fp.nt  reviv  d  now  being  old  ' 
 
 nZ  a    !  ^''"'  '^^  "*^^«''''  ot  aH  bis  Land 
 u,7i?h''''"°""'.''S^  it  from  Gods  own  hand 
 us  all  the  parts  of  this  fweet  facred  ftory        * 
 e  tor  mans  good  but  end  all  with  G:ds  o  cry 
 
 ^hnCri       t'  ""^  ^'*  ""^^^^"^^  Dreams, 
 e  farther  here  5..r««.  M^Uvohme 
 
 ^«  fought  by  my  Brethrens  Cruelty        ' 
 metory,ne/p^.^,r^^,y  ^' 
 
 ■^Bretjien^eofwilfullenryfold, 
 d  tor  Che  iwtnty  Silver  peeces  told, 
 
 The 
 
JS       .  The  fourth  Book  of  Jofcph. 
 
 The  Miitdm  Merchants  bought  me  for  their  gaini 
 
 And  into  Egypt  meant  to  fell  again; 
 
 God  hither  fent  me  Grain  here  to  provide, 
 
 Elfe  thou  and  all  thy  Sons  for  want  had  dy'd; 
 
 Thus  Sathaa  fought  difhonour  of  God's  namCs 
 
 And  all  for  this  my  Brethren  rightly  blame; 
 
 Good  men  fuch  Merchants  Covetilc  dcteft , 
 
 That  buy  and  lell  Gods  Irmge  as  a  Beaft; 
 
 But  God  who*s  only  powerfull,  good,  and  wife. 
 
 From  all  thefe  evils  makes  the  Good  arife. 
 
 But  I  thus  having  in  great  Fha,ra.h*%  grace 
 Obtain'd  the  firft,  in  Realm  the  fecond  place, 
 f  irfl:  pray  to  God  me  to  dircd  aright 
 Touie  this  favour,  and  my  borrowed  Light; 
 Nor  fought  I  mine  own  honour,  wealth,  and  praife. 
 But  his,  who  did  me  from  the  Dungeon  raife; 
 And  therefore,  firft  take  care  for  publick  good, 
 Providing,  'gainft  the f fit nre  Famine ^Vood; 
 Wherefore,  1  firft  through  Egypt s  Circuit  ride. 
 And  Garners  great  in  cv'ry  place  provide. 
 In  thofe  fev  n  fruitfull  years  to  fill  with  ftorc 
 Of  ev'ry  Grain,  and  fith  it  is  no  more 
 Vertue  to  purchafe,  than  preferve,  no  tide 
 I  flipt,but  did  moft  carefully  provide 
 To  kill  all  vermin,  cut  off  all  excefs 
 Of  Gluttony,  and  beaftly  Drunkenoefs; 
 Abate  all  needlefs  Beafts,  Dogs,  Mules,  and  Horfe, 
 Rid  idle  Rogues  and  Vagrants,  which  are  worfe 
 Than  Cutter-pilUrs  to  confume  the  ftore , 
 To  rob  the  richeit,  and  to  fterve  the  poor j 
 No  Corn  out  of  the  Land  let  I  go  out. 
 But  buy  in  rather  from  the  Coafts  about, 
 And  many  Forrefts  which  before  did  ly 
 All  waft,  I  unto  tillage  did  apply; 
 Thus  I  proceed,  andi  God  fo  bleft  ray  hand 
 That  all  things  profper  over  all  the  Land. 
 
.  The  fourth  Book  o/Iofeph.  5^ 
 
 But  when  the  years  of  plenty  all  are  paft, 
 Vnd  all  the  Land  of  £^7;Myeth  waft, 
 >o  that  they  live  of  former  years  remains  i 
 A^hich  them  perhaps  a  month  or  two  fuftains I 
 rhe  people  firft  of  Pharaoh  fcek  fupply^ 
 ATho  them  to  lofeph  fends,  I  fuddenly, 
 let  ope  the  Barns,  and  fell  for  money  out 
 rhe  corn  to  all  the  Nations  round  about, 
 ^ow  is  the  time  indeed,  that  I  might  buy 
 ^a/Jles  and  La)i^s  for  my  Pofierity  , 
 Imi  I  all  money  bring  to  Pb^tra&h's  hand 
 fo  h^xhtfitength^n^finews  of  the  Land; 
 ^Pharaoh  will  bcftow  on  me  a  Place^ 
 3r  money  to  buy  Land,  I  of  his  Grace 
 NiW  Houfe  and  L  r»^,  as  I  my  O^ce  hold; 
 ^  Strangers  in  purchaling  may  be  too  bold. 
 /Vhen  all  tfeeir  money's  fpent  with  buying  bread, 
 3ne  year  with  Corn  I  them  for  Cattel  fed; 
 5ut  when  the  next  year  they  in  need  do  ftand, 
 '.  will  for  Corn  their  Bodies  buy  and  Land , 
 Jut  all  for  Phar^oh"^  whereby  growing  ftrong, 
 "ie  and  his  Empire  may  continue  long; 
 ^nd  to  eftablifh  more  his  Signeury, 
 Tom  Place  to  Place  I  will  each  Colonic 
 franlplant,  who  on  the  Eajh  of  Nile  abide, 
 ;  will  remove  unto  the  other  fide ; 
 rhus  Pharaoh  Lord  of  Egypt  (hall  be  known, 
 5y  Sffl?ny  none  (hall  fay  this  is  mine  own. 
 rhus  have  I  feen  when  TVaKt  or  fVafi  comptl 
 V  Gallant  his  Inheritance  to  fell. 
 Left  any  right  in  him  ihould  ftill  be  thought ) 
 jive  place  10  him  that  hath  the  purchafe  bought, 
 Vnd  in  another  Country  Dwelling  hire, 
 /Vhither  he  with  his  houftiold  may  retire; 
 rhus  will  I  do  with  ail  the  Common  Lands  ^ 
 ku  for  the  Sucred  in  the  Prophets  hands. 
 
 To 
 
^o  The  fo/r/ih Bock  of  Jofcph. 
 
 To  Mfffif  fin4  to  Lfttrnhg  dedicate^ 
 Or  to  Reiigioif4  nfcs  conlccratc, 
 I  chink  it  Sfurihgc  indeed  to  touch; 
 Could  ali  by  this  example  learn  as  much. 
 And  let  the  prusis  their  Portions  freely  catt 
 Whofe  Bratru  in  youth  for  underOanding  fvvear, 
 Their  age  mPi^^yefs  and  Ptrfwafioy>s  fpend  ,    ^ 
 To  fare  the  Good,  and  wicked  to  amend. 
 
 When  l/rz/V  years  have  fur niftiM  them  with  bread 
 I  'vaiii^  eighth  will  furniih  them  with  feed 
 To  fow  their  L^rJ^  the  pfth  of  whofe  inci  eaie 
 Shall  be  tbc  King^sr,lVt  other  four  in  Peace 
 They  and  their  houfholds  eat;  and  this  (h^l  (land 
 For  ever  as  a  La\\^  in  Pharaoh's  L^nd*^  I 
 
 The  Priefis  Lionels  only  fhall  be  ever  free, 
 For  to  tble  Lord  chey  confecratcd  be. 
 i'  Now,  as  I  faid,  when  I  did  Circuit  ride. 
 And  Bgyfts  Land  furveid  from  (ide  to  fide. 
 One  thing  of  greateft  ufe  I  did  obferve, 
 ^a^    Which  doth  perpetual  memory  deferve^ 
 tcmmi-  Which,  if  it  once  were  rightly  underftood, 
 «p^*    Would  force  all  fludious  of  the  pMickgofd 
 Delta     To  do^  fpeak,  write  >  of  this  moft  rare  invention^ 
 robJ^m^  Till  to  effed  they  brought  what  next  I  mention: 
 Gorop.'        A  pcece  of  Land  an  Iftmos^  Bar^  or  Stav^ 
 Uciod^  TwiXC  AUdLind  SeaydiTid  the  Arabian  Bay, 
 plus  di-  Suppos*4  foroe  (rf)ten  miles  over  at  the  moft^ 
 ponrtT^  Adjoyneth  faft  unto  ih' Egyptian  Coaft, 
 (b)pram.  Which  it  one  by  a  Channel  did  ^i^ide, 
 gj^cora  Both  Seas  might  each  into  the  other  Aide; 
 Kcx  hac  xhis  if  it  were  once  (J?)  N  avigable  made, 
 fcTma-  Would  bring  to  King,  and  People  of  each  trade, 
 cuio  in    Such  wondrous  gain  as  cannot  be  expcded, 
 tuld'm  With  endlefs  fame  to  thoie  which  it  effefted; 
 tit.H:ro.  For  it  would  ope  an  eafy  way  and  prell: 
 ^"^^'^'  To  fail  kQX£JE.Hrofc,  AfricK,  /^/<^- Weft 
 
 Wilh 
 
nefourw  mok  o\  loiepn. 
 
 Within/cw  days  to  the  rich  Indies  place  j 
 Which  hardly  now  is  done  in  three  years  fpacc; 
 How  might  all  dwellers  on  the  earth  hereby. 
 Soon  be  enriched  by  their  induftry  ? 
 When  by  this  Channel  Merchants  might  convey. 
 Exchange  of  Merchandize  fo  near  a  way, 
 Ev*n  from  the  iV<?rf ^^r « lflcs,and  iVeftemLands, 
 To  China^G aiiges ,  2i\\&  the  I>2dian  Sands. 
 
 This  proje5i  I  to  Pharaoh  did  commend , 
 Intreating  him  this  Princely  T^ori^t'intcnd, 
 But  fome  bafe  minds,  aftive  in  nought  but  ill, 
 Men  of  acedious  fpirits,  and  little  skill, 
 Who  are  mod  forward  ay  to  vihfie 
 All  works  of  Honour^  Art^  and  Induftry^ 
 Were  ready  this  moll  noble  work  to  ftay, 
 Saying  a  Bear^  or  Lion^s  in  the  way. 
 
 This  I/hf»os,  fay  (c)  tjicy,  is  ordain'd  by  fate, 
 To  bar  chefe  Seas  that  they  fliould  never  meet. 
 But  evermore  remain  a  fatal  Dam, 
 Betwixt  them  both,  and  therefore  cali'd  Esdam* 
 
 A  fancie  vain,  which  from  miflaken  n^jne 
 Some  fuperflitiouswifardsidely  frame, 
 For  tis  not  call'd  Eedam^  and  though  it  were , 
 Who  for  this  name  would  this  attempt  forbear? 
 For  Eedam  notes  in  language  (d)  which  they  mean, 
 A  {e)  firm  ftrong  water  courfe  great  Bank^ between; 
 So  from  that  name  they  might  more  truly  gather, 
 This  I (thmos  (hould  be  z  firm  current  rather 
 For  waters  courfe,  wh'ch  I  more  boldly  fay, 
 Becauferot  Etd.tn)  it,  but  (f)  Eetham  ay 
 Was  cali'd^  and  fo  is  ftill,  by  which  is  ment 
 7  hat  with  his  double  (  ()  fide  the  Seas  clofe  pent, 
 Shall  one  day  h:;  ve  a  Cmrent  fair  and  great^ 
 In  which  the  waves  of  both  thofe  Seas  (hall  meet. 
 And  have  fo  large  a  paiTage,  (bips  may  turn, 
 As  they  go  to  the  hdhs  or  return. 
 
 And 
 
 or 
 
 (c)Ecdi 
 
 ^gnificac 
 
 aggcrem 
 
 perpcCH- 
 
 um  QuUo 
 
 nodo 
 
 rumpctt- 
 
 xium; 
 
 Gorop,L 
 
 ^.Hifp. 
 
 (d)  Cim- 
 brica  feu 
 Gctooa- 
 nica.Co. 
 lop. 
 
 (e)  Dam 
 fignific^t 
 ?8ge»em 
 fiurribas 
 Mari>  & 
 squarutn 
 oppofit 
 Gor:>p,  j 
 
 £c%ni- 
 fic,6rvu. 
 (0  He- 
 bra  rce  (ic 
 rocatur 
 &ficvo- 
 canda  t& 
 (8)eetha 
 dcitur 
 vel  sb 
 Hcbrao 
 Thaam 
 (per  me- 
 tathcfin) 
 qd  figni- 
 Hcat  gc- 
 minam, 
 quia  in- 
 ter duo 
 marii     \ 
 pofi:um  \ 
 eft :  vcl 
 ab  Ethafa 
 qd.figtii- 
 ficat  cur- 
 ro  quia 
 Etham'  'S 
 olim  fit- 
 tura;  eft 
 locus  iibi 
 mate     j 
 currau 
 
i^i  The  fourth  Book  0/  lofcph . 
 
 And  whereas  thefe  fantaftick  men  do  dream, 
 Thistoeffedimpoflible  dothfecm; 
 They  without  reafon,  lelf  conceited,  wife, 
 Againft  the  publick  profit  this  devife;  (plain, 
 
 (h)&iius  High  (^)  Mountains,  Rocks  of  Flint  have  been  made 
 2^2*"^^^*^^^  ^^  ^^^^^  ^  paffage  to  the  Main^ 
 fetoeft  Yea  who  knows  not  that  far  more  harder  (/)  things, 
 g^'  Have  been  effedcd  by  the  Egyptian  Kings? 
 3toxc,    Butneverany  of  fuch  eminence, 
 2^"^  Nor  any  that  couid  bring  fuch  recompencej 
 (i)  qm  As  this,for  little  labour,  coft  and  pain, 
 ^^  Would  to  th*whole  world  bring  infinite  great  gain. 
 Aifpot^     Another  let  they  tell  as  fond  and  vain, 
 ^*^*  That  if  this  Bar  be  cut,  the  Arabian  Main 
 4«»cii-  Doth  rife  fo  high,  his  waves  would  overflow 
 ^^  All  th'Egypti^n  plains,  they  lie  fo  I0W5 
 *nc     Bat  I  upon  my  view  could  not  defcry 
 Twixt  Sea  and  Land  fuch  inequality; 
 Buchowfoe'r  Earth,  Scones ,  and  that  doth  rife 
 From  digging  of  the  Chanel,  would  fuffice. 
 To  railc  Sea-walls,  for  a  moft  firong  defence, 
 Againft  the  waters  rage,  and  violence, 
 And  more  fecnre  on  either  fide  the  fhorc, 
 From  overflowing  than  it  was  before. 
 
 But  though  I  have  fraail  hope  to  win  this  Nation 
 To  cut  this  Jhcrter  courfe,  for  Navigation, 
 Yet  when  that  Ki^i  to  whofe  high  Scepters  fway. 
 All  Nations,  will  they,  nill  they,  muft  obey. 
 Shall  rule  as  well  o*r  ^Jta  ^adiEuropes  Landf^ 
 As  China,  /ndiay  and  Arabian  Sands^ 
 Some  Potent  Monarch  will  himfelfalone, 
 Or  many  Princes  joyning  all  in  one  , 
 Will  take  this  noble  enterprife  in  hand, 
 And  make  this  fhorter  paffage  to  each  Land , 
 If  not  for  th'eafe  and  good  ot  Navigation^ 
 Xet  for  Gods  gloria  farther  propagation^ 
 
 "^  ":  '    '  .  That 
 
I  ThefGurth  Book  of  loieph.  ^j 
 
 That  fo  \i\%TFords  and  fTifdoms  glorious  (oundi 
 
 May  through  all  corners  of  the  Earth  relound. 
 
 This  for  the  fuhlicl^good  I  have  made  known 
 
 In  Bg)ipt,  as  I  now  to  thee  have  (hown. 
 
 Now  whilft  I  for  the  Puhlick  take  fuch  care j 
 
 Pharafih  at  home  a  belp  doth  me  prepare, 
 
 A  prince's  Daughter^  f^;/?^/ Ornament, 
 
 For  whom  Kin^  Pharaoh  with  her  Father  ff  nt. 
 
 And  welcoms  thus.  Great  On  I  who  by  thy  placCj 
 
 Art  to  me  next^  and/^cW  in  my  grace; 
 
 y<?/f/>^  is  firft,  whole  merits  to  difplay, 
 
 Fo  light  a  Candel  were  in  clcareft  day, 
 
 All  Niltis  Borders  do  refound  his  fame, 
 
 A.nd  honour  moft-dcfervedly  his  name ; 
 
 jtrcngth^  youth,  and  vigour  in  his  fare  appears^* 
 
 f\nd  wifdom  in  his  heart  of  graifit  hairs* 
 
 -lis  Beauty^  as  his  Vertue^  hath  no  pair, 
 
 •lim  would  I  match  with  Afenah  thine  he^r; 
 
 ;  know  he  is  a  ftrangcr  in  this  place, 
 
 Vnd  wants  Poffeffions^  yet  in  Pharaohs  grace ^ 
 
 \nd  he  thou  know'ft  deferveth  at  my  hands 
 
 fo  have  a  part  in  all  my  Goods  and  Lards. 
 
 The  reverend  Priefl:  replies.  Dread  Sovcraign^ 
 .0  !  all  the  PUce  and  honour  1  obtain 
 n  Es^ypt^  I  acknowledge  from  thy  grace, 
 Vhich  is  enough  to  raife  to  highefl  pU'ce 
 .'he  meanefl  :    But  thou  doft  a  match  propound^ 
 Vhere  vertnes  more  than  henours  doe  abound  X 
 Lmongfl:  the  many  Favonrs  thou  haft  done 
 'hy  Servant^  this  I  deem  the  higheft  one, 
 L  Pritji  to  be  fo  gracious  in  thy  fight , 
 'o  match  his  Child  with  Pharaohs  Favourite^ 
 lay't  pleafeyour  Grace  to  ask  the  maids  conlcnt,' 
 'Ut  by  her  looks,  I  fee  fhe  is  content, 
 
 For  then  her  vail  (where  modeftiy  (he  ihrowds 
 ler  radiant  Rayes,  as  SclAt^tV  his  in  clouds ) 
 
 Q  (J  Vm. 
 
^'^  Tfje fourth  Book  or  loicph. 
 
 Put  off,  fuch  Iieav'niy  Beauty  did  difclofe, 
 As  if  another  S/^.^^m  Court  arofe. 
 Which  as  the  A'^/«^  iJ^/^,  the  Courtiers  all 
 Adore,  and  hke  a  0/^/?<?m  before  her  fall : 
 
 Then  Pharaoh  faith,  her  takin<^  by  the  hand, 
 By  filence  tliy  confent  we  underftand, 
 Good  diughter,  thou  art  like  thy  Parents  fair. 
 As  of  theii  Gacds^  be  of  their  Graces  heir  : 
 A  fitter  match  for  Uftfn  none  can  find^ 
 If  to  thy  Bodies  grace  thou  fuit  thy  mind, 
 So,  as  thine  omx^pard  beauties  heavenly  fhine, 
 Thine  inward  fliaU  b'  Angelical  divine. 
 Oh  1   Labour  to  be  glorious  within. 
 So  Goils^  fnans^  lofefhs  favour  thou  (halt  win. 
 
 The  Ki?t^  forth- with  then  fends  for  me  in  hafV, 
 And  firfi  repeating  all  things  as  they  pafV, 
 With  his  own  hand  her  gives  me  for  my  Bride, 
 Affuring  us  for  ever  to  abide 
 As  loving, as  our  Fathers  natural : 
 W^hen  humbly  1  upon  my  face  did  fall, 
 And  firft  gave  thanks-  as  duty  did  require, 
 To  Pharaoh  ,  next  unto  her  holy  '^i^e. 
 
 As  when  \x\  Garden  Adn?n  all  alone 
 Saw  Ev\  flcfhofhisfle(h,boneofhis  bone. 
 He  her  embrac'd,  kifs'd,  and  fo  highly  priz'd, 
 As  if  ail  Beauty  were  cpitomiz'd 
 In  his  fair  Rib,  now  with  the  Body  met, 
 (Two  Suns,  which  but  for  fin  had  never  it\.  ) 
 So  I5  who,  though  in  homur^  was  alone 
 InE^jfpt  tilll met  my  flefii and  bone. 
 Sweet  Jfenahy  in  whofe  fair  eyes  and  face, 
 I  faw  my  mother  Rachrh  comely  grace : 
 This  Egjpts  Gern^  v^hofe  eies  I  did  behold 
 Like  radiant  Diamonds  fair  fet  in  G  old; 
 Embrace,  kifs,  love  her,  and  her  G  race  admire. 
 And  lee  her  as  the  Bound  of  my  defirc  ; 
 
 Thinking 
 
The  four rh  B :ol^  o '  lofcpb.  5  5 
 
 Thinking  I  now  did  reap  wirh  trfMe  gain. 
 The  Gi  up  of  all  my  trav;L  care,  and  p  m. 
 Then  in  the  prel'cnce  of  the  Court  and  King, 
 I  courted  her  with  this  ipecch  foliowing. 
 
 Faur  Ltd^^  whoie  high  Grace  and  Beauty  fecii 
 To  me  your  ferv  nt,  may  become  a  Qjfiefj, 
 Yet  art,  (fuch  is  thme  humblenefs;  contenc 
 To  be  poor  lofeph^^  without  complement,       * 
 I  am  all  yours,  nor  do  1  kCs  eftcem 
 Your  worth,  becaufc  you  it  fo  meanly  deem  i 
 Oar  S£X"s  duty  to  your    ex  I  know, 
 Is  you  to  Court, intreat,  and  humbly  woe, 
 But  fincc  that  fervicc  you  to  me  remit, 
 1  will  fo  much  remiin  more  in  your  debt. 
 My  time  is  pretious,  therefore  let  me  (how 
 To  you  ih  brief,  what  '^offh^  wife  muf!  doe.' 
 |t  is  not  tin  wo'  Ids  T^lfe,  vain  glittering  glory^ 
 So  full  of  ha2ard,lubrique,  tranfitory, 
 At  which  I  aim  :  *  Fis  an  eternal  place, 
 Where  we  fhall  live  fer  ay  in  bis  fled  cafe. 
 Whether  the/o^-,  th'  Egyvtians  wont  to  ferve. 
 Can  never  bring  you  :  he  that  will  p'efcrvc 
 This  L<««^  from  F^*2«<r  hy  ch*  inr.erpn'tarion 
 Of  Poa-aohs  D  eams^  mull  ^ring  to  this  falvation  s 
 One  Gad  with  lofeph  muft  his  wife  adore. 
 One  Chd^  one  true  Religion,  and  no  more  s 
 G<^d  jealous  is  ho  /^<?/-(lock  or  flone. 
 May  be  his  Rival^  God  and  T'rf^th  is  one  s      j 
 Theie  worldly  fhcws,  delights  and  vanity. 
 As  Mo'tal^  with  our  Mortal  B  dies dX^^ 
 The  Pleafkres  which  I  fpeak  of  ay  remain. 
 Eternal  thus  for  Temporal  we  gain. 
 This  God  my  Fathers  with  their  wives  have  fervcd. 
 Who  to  this  day  from  dangers  me  preferved; 
 This  God  me  from  the  dungeon  deep  did  raife 
 jo  be  thy  Husband,  him  for  ever  praife  »• 
 
 Q.q  ^  Ma- 
 
Co  The  fourth  Book  of  W.eph.  | 
 
 Madam,  your  King  and  Father  arc  content , 
 But  your  own  mouth  muft  (hew  your  free  confent. 
 When  faired  JJenah  long  filencc  breaks^ 
 And  as  an  Angel  fent  from  Heavn  thus  fpeaks ; 
 
 Good  Sir,  fuch  is  my  due  and  filial  awe. 
 My  Fathers  judgement  is  to  me  a  Law  , 
 Much  more  my  Sovereign^',  But  fuch  worth  in  you 
 I  fee  and  hear  of,I  fhould  rather  fuc 
 But  for  ray  Sexes  bafhfull  modefty  , 
 For  fuch  an  honour  rather  than  deny: 
 Nor  fliall  I  meanly  of  my  felf  thus  deem, 
 To  honour  him  whom  Ki»g  and  Fealm  ejieem 
 Their  Ftther^  and  the  Kingdoms  Favorite. 
 What  greater  Grace  befalsa  mortal  wight? 
 Sir,  that  Religion,  which  my  holy  Sire 
 Taught  nic  his  Child,  inform'd  my  fouls  defire, 
 Worlds  Glory,  Pomp,  and  Vainnefs  to  defpifc. 
 But  thy  Religion  makes  men  heavn'ly  wife. 
 And  brings  thena  by  an  upright  convcrfation. 
 To  happy  everlafting  habitation. 
 Therefore  as  thy  Religion  ours  tranfcends  ^ 
 As  aiming  at  more  high  and  happy  ends. 
 So  great  er  is  my  joy  and  happinefs. 
 To  match,  where  I  it  truly  mufl:  profefs. 
 So  fure  as  that  (whereof  thou  didft  divine 
 By  Dreams)  fliall  come  to  pafs,  fo  am  I  thine :  \ 
 
 Thy  God  ihall  be  my  God^  and  mine  thy  Nation, 
 In  earth,  grave,  heav*n,  one  be  our  habitation  ^ 
 What  thou  approv'fl  as  good,  the  fame  do  I, 
 With  thee,  <Sw?^^r  //d=^r<fW,  let  me  live  and  die  ;  i 
 
 Pardon,  A  womans  Tongue  knows  no  content, 
 Y ea,  is  enough  t'cxprefs  a  Maids  confent.  | 
 
 Lo  thus  Hearts^  hwds^ words ^  Wijhes^ join'd in  one,     j 
 T'^o  by  Confent ^he come  oneflefh  and  bonem  j 
 
 Then  princely  On  begins  ;  Lo  God  hath  ty*J 
 Theie  two  in  one,  let  no  Man  them  divide ;  ' 
 
 Dear 
 
The  fourth  Book  of  Joieph. 
 
 Dear  Daughter,  I  to  lofeph  thee  commit, 
 Thou  therefore  muft  thy  Fathers  houfe  forget. 
 And  people,  fo  (hall  fons  before  thee  (land. 
 Fit  to  bear  rule  as  Princes  in  the  Land ; 
 That  God  whom  Pharaoh^  {?«,  and  lofeph  ferve , 
 Who,  as  he  all  things  made,  doth  all  preferve,  \ 
 God  who  of  things  to  come  to  PharAoh  told 
 By  Dreamsj  which  none  but  lofeph  could  unfold, 
 When  Goi  him  fuom  the  Dungeon  did  advance. 
 To  fave  us  by  a  great  Deliverance, 
 God  Author  fole,  and  end  of  happincTs, 
 This  holy  Marriage,  and  this  Union  blefs, 
 Of  the  Egyptian  and  the  Hthre'i^o  Nations^ 
 And  make  them  happy  in  ihe/r  Generations. 
 And  honour  ay  in  beav'n  our  Sov*raign  Ar/;r^  J 
 As  he  his  Servants  honours  in  this  thing, 
 
 The  King  thus  pleas'd  in  royal  pomp  and  fl:ate, 
 With  fumptuous  feafts  and  (hows  doth  celebrate 
 Our  Marriage  day,  where  all  with  Mufiquc  ringSi 
 And  KinjT  and  Court  a  happy  Hymen  fiags* 
 Happy 5 1  hope,  though  with  an  Heathen  Dame, 
 yNhoizGrare  and  Virtues  I  the  rather  name. 
 That  you  may  know  we  here,  as  eliwhere  find, 
 Some ^00^  as  well  as  bad  of  woman-kind. 
 As  a  hofe  wicked  wife  ot  Potiphar^ 
 So  a  moft  pi^^^  child  of  Pfitiphar  : 
 But  why  fhould  I  time  in  her  praifes  fpend. 
 Since  her  own  works,  her  beft  of  all  commend? 
 Gi^d  me  harh  giv*n,by  her,  two  lovely  Boys, 
 Before  the  Famine^  which  are  all  my  Joys  : 
 Lo  1  here  (he  kindly  comes  with  all  her  train,' 
 Her  welcorn  F  ther  for  to  entertain  : 
 For  now  they  all  at  lofephs  gate  arrive. 
 Where  Ph^t^aoh-  Peers ^  and  Servants  M  do  ftrivej 
 How  beft  their  L^ves  and  Service  (hew  they  may, 
 To  adde  more  honour  to  this  happy  day. 
 
 Qq  3  When 
 
■^Vhcn  Afemh^  firH:  kneeling  dowflj  begun, 
 »h  holy  Father  of  a  bkfled  Ton, 
 lefs  me  thy  Dat^gher ;  BlefTed  (hall  they  be 
 Vhom  thou  doft  blefs :  As  welcom  now  to  me, 
 is  deareft  hfefh  to  his  Fat  hers  fight. 
 Vll  Egypts  glory  yeclds  not  fuch  delight. 
 Vhen  lacc^^  Daughter,  Fitter  'tis  for  me, 
 foyour  great y?<i/^,  to  bow  my  humble  knee. 
 But  rightly  you  of  me  a  blcHing  crave. 
 No  other  Dower  to  beftow  i  have. 
 The  Lord  on  thee  from  Heav*n  all  Bleffings  (hower : 
 But  Ucohs  tongue  not  having  farther  power 
 Now  to  expre.s  his  Wondrous  Joy  and  Love, 
 His  eyes  produce  abundane  tears  to  prove 
 His  joyful  foul,  for  Jof<r,hs  happy  ftate, 
 When  l/ffhs  Steward  tels  hira  it  was  late. 
 And  iunoer  time  :  Where.ore  they  all  addrell 
 Jhemielves^  in  their  due  order,  to  the  feajft. 
 
 THE 
 
69 
 
 The  Fifch  Book  of 
 fOSE'PH. 
 
 SOon  as  Ahyoya  wich  her  blufhing'face 
 Uiherd  the  Gjant  out  to  run  his  race. 
 His  longcfl:  journey  from  the  Ea^ft  to  Vl^e^^ 
 Good  ^^y^p/;  though  heovernighi:  did  tea  ft. 
 Even  all  the  ftatcs  Qir^g-j?t  with  their  train. 
 His  Father  in  more  ftate  co  entertain , 
 Gets  up  ,  and  wich  his  Servants  all  repairs 
 Untoa  c»-'?/?p^/by,  to  publique  prayers, 
 Which  Pharaoh  had  given  Jof^ph  there  to  ferve 
 God,  who  from  famine  rE^^jpt  did  prefer vc , 
 No  time  to  men  of  ABion  is  fo  free 
 For  their  devotions,  as  the  mornings  be, 
 Efpecially  for  thole  that  live  at  Court, 
 Where  they  make  Din^srs  long,  bur  Prayers  (horc. 
 But  they  done ,  hf€j>h  doth  his  fpecch  dired 
 Thus  to  his  Brethren :  You  perhaps  exped. 
 That  I,  now  for  mine  own  and  houfes  grace. 
 Should  raife  you  all  to  honourable  place, 
 And  make  you  Lords  at  leafl:  in  Ph.trarhj  land. 
 But  if-  you  wifely  things  will  underftand 
 And  know  that  honour  ladeth  more  than  graces 
 If  wealth  and  virtpge  anfwer  not  your  places, 
 No  grace  nor  hoftoftr  can  give  fuch  contents 
 To  you,  as  quietly  to  live  in  tefits. 
 You  that  have  had  your  Breedingi  in  fuch  fortji 
 Cannot  obfcrve  the  Niteties  of  Court. 
 
 Q.q4  They 
 
7®  ThepfthBoek  oriofcpb. 
 
 They  whofe  ambition  would  be  over  al', 
 1  he  higher  dimb'd  oft  take  the  greater  fall: 
 £(j'4d!j  rnvy^  StiperioHrs(\xch  difdain. 
 Infer  I  oars  malign,  all  k^k  their  gain, 
 G^'ace  and  preferment  by  anothers  frown; 
 Whoget?ipfeekto  thru II  the  other  down. 
 Copirtirrs  are  /)m/j,  whilH:  Sol  on  them  fhincs, 
 O^fcrv'd  of  ail,  elfe  but  as  painred  Lines. 
 Mmy  Coun  honour  only  do  admire. 
 And  as  ^t\rt\  her  heav'n  on  «a>rth  defire  ; 
 Thele  only  look  on  outward  j^/<r«^(7«r,(hown, 
 Our  ir.warJ  cares  and  dangers  are  unknown, 
 None  w  K^ld  envy  our  glory  and  content, 
 Knew  they  the  weight  and  cares  ofgovernmente 
 They  Atla6  burthen  on  their  {boulders  bear. 
 To  whom  committed  is  the  puiflifjf^e  care  ^ 
 Befides  moft  ftand  in  fuch  high  flippcry  places, 
 I  would  not  have  their  haz^ard  for  their  grace*. 
 I  fpeak  not  to  dehort  from  government 
 The  wife,  for  fear  of  griefs  and  difcontent. 
 Under  this  burthen  they  mufl  bow  their  back, 
 Lcll  if  the  wicked  rule  all  goes  to  wrack: 
 But  who  are  prudent^  moderate  and  )vi/<f, 
 Ar^  rather  raif'd  f.^r  worth,  than  fcek  to  rife: 
 And  fuch  like  tubs  on  their  own  bottom  ftand. 
 Nor  need  the  leaft  fupport  of  others  hand ; 
 When  they  which  want  this  true  worth  of  their  own, 
 No  fooner  clamberd  up,  but  tumbled  down, 
 The  firfl  likej^Av^^-^V^ir/  ftand  firm  and  faft, 
 Lafl:  make  fair  (hows,  like  (  omets^  but  foon  waft. 
 Their  matter  hpitreelivnental  fire. 
 Of  thcfc  ambithtis  hptmour  and  defire  : 
 Such  is  the  Humour  of  Jmhition  vain  , 
 '^OT grace  and  offices  to  take  much  pain. 
 Wherein  they  never  comfort  take,  nor  reft, 
 So  fear  of  loling  doth  their  mind  raolcft  : 
 
 When 
 
The  fif[h  Book  of  loieph.       ^  71 
 
 ben  could  they  their  fair  fort u-^es  ufe  arigbe, 
 
 ley  Fretdom  might  enjoy  with  much  deligh  ^ 
 
 ive  ofyou,  my  brethren  will  prefent 
 
 )  Phzraoh^  who  1  know  hath  an  intent 
 
 )  give  you  any  honour  you  require. 
 
 It  you  his  Favour  only  (hall  deiire, 
 
 bd  tell  him  plainly  how  you  have  been  bred, 
 
 ndi  Beards  and  Cattle  ail  your  lifetime  fed. 
 
 vly  reafon  is,  for  that  this  occupation 
 
 here  in  &gypt  of  fmall  reputation  ) 
 
 cfiring  you, of  his  high  grace ^  may  hold^ 
 
 >me  pallures  only  for  your  flocks  and  fold, 
 
 'here  you  may  ferve  God  free  from  care  andibrifc, 
 
 pd  pray  for  Pharaohs  long  and  happy  life : 
 
 ^ould  I  you  all  now  raife  to  Digmie^ 
 
 Ines  Folly  ruine  might  the  Familie; 
 
 lany  united  ftronger  are  than  one, 
 
 lit  'tis  moft- what  more  fafe  to  ftand  alone : 
 
 tpeciafly  (o  high,  where  one  mans  f^iS? 
 
 lay  make  a  breach,  and  fo  ind anger  all. 
 
 h  happinefle  if  known  of  Country  bowers  ! 
 
 'here  in  Devotion  they  their  freer  howers 
 
 ay  fpend,  and  with  Groves  Citizens  fweecfing 
 
 ivineft  praifes  to  the  Heavenly  King; 
 
 'here  free  from  plets  and  undermining  Arts, 
 
 11  may  the  Trmh  fpeak  boldly  from  their  hearts. 
 
 For  to  a  good  man  tis  no  little  pain 
 
 )  flatter  for  the  greacell:  grace  and  gain  ) 
 
 here  may  they  fee  their  Lamb-;  grow  great  &  more, 
 
 nd  heavenly  bledings  on  their  (tock  and  ftore  ; 
 
 lere  may  they  fee  corn  thrive  upon  their  lands, 
 
 nd  God  to  profper  all  works  paffe  their  hands  : 
 
 appy  whofe  ior  falls  in  fo  fair  a  ground, 
 
 ich  pleafures  are  at  Court  but  Teldom  found. 
 
 It  lets  make  haft,  my  Brethren  to  the  Court, 
 
 y  bufinefle  is  long,  ray  time  but  (hort. 
 
 And 
 
7  ^  The  fifth  Book  o/Iofeph . 
 
 And  now  had  Phcehi44  c/imb*dup  to  fuch  heighr,^ 
 His  beafns  did  warm  the  World  ,  as  well  as  lighc^ 
 When  Jfraelold^  with  travel  wearied, 
 Slept  found,  tiliwaking  he  much  wondred 
 (  Tiiinking  himfelf  at  firfl  in  his  own  Tents) 
 To  fee  fuch  coftly  gorgeous  ornaments: 
 But  loon  reraembring  where  he  did  abide, 
 He  turns  to  Leah  lying  by  his  fide  : 
 
 And  thus  begins.  Dear  Wife!  fhould  I  furvay 
 Gods  bleflings  from  my  birth,  unto  this  dayi 
 And  in  a  fum  his  benefits  recounc. 
 They  would  ray  dajs^  nay  ev'n  ray  ho^trs  furmount: 
 His  Goodttejfe^  fVi/d^my  Pow'r^Love  in  thofe  pal^ 
 Shin*d  feveral,  but  all  now  in  this  lafi : 
 Goodneffe  in  drawing  fo  much  good  from  ill. 
 To  work  the  found  good  purpofe  of  his  wiilt 
 His  Power  herein  is  manifeftly  fliown,     . 
 In  raifing  up  the  meekj^  and  throwing  down 
 The  proud;  his  heavenly  f^vifhrn  did  forefee. 
 And  told  us  all  by  dreams  which  now  we  fee: 
 Tht  Stars  etev'n  to  lofeph  bow*d  long  fince, 
 Now  we  tht  Sun  and  Moon  him  reverence: 
 And  lafily  here  appears  his  wondrous  Lave 
 That  all  for*s  glory  and  our  good  doth  prove. 
 Thus  IfraelAoth  Gods  benefits  recite, 
 Beginning  in  the  morning  ev'n  till  night. 
 But  whiUl:  he  thus  Gods  Bounty  magnified 
 Like  faireft  Evte  with  tmn  L^mhs  by  each  ^lic. 
 Comes  Afentih^  on  either  hand  a  Son, 
 Smuggc,  lively,  like  two  Rabbets  newly  run : 
 Which  feem*d  their  mothers  gracefull  fteps  to  guide. 
 As  two  trim  Squirts  that  lead  to  Church  a  Bride, 
 The  tender  Boys,  whofe  mothers  pious  care. 
 Before  they  had  taught  themfelves  aright  to  bear, 
 Dowi  on  their  knees  before  their  Grandfirc  fall. 
 And  fweetly  to  hitn  for  his  blefiing  call: 
 
 The 
 
The  fifth  Book  o  lO' epfe.  7  J 
 
 The  good  old  man  whofc  heart  doth  dance  for  joys 
 
 To  fee  his  IVtphews^  thus  begins,  Sweet  boys. 
 
 Which  like  two  faircft  I?4ljfl  wen  ftiown. 
 
 Or  buds  ofdamask  Rofts  fcarcely  blown, 
 
 Oh  thefe  my  Daughter  give  you  more  contest 
 
 Then  F^ym  weahh  and  coftlieft ornament: 
 
 Me  thinks  they  hang  upon  each  arm  of  thiae. 
 
 Like  two  fair  'Ctujters  on  a  fruitful  Vhe. 
 
 Thcfc  (hall  renew  our  dying  memory. 
 
 And  us  revive  unco  Pofterity. 
 
 Behold  I  fee  in  l»ttle  Ephratms  face. 
 
 My  deareft  Rachels  lovely  looks  and  grace; 
 
 Manafl  s  1  ke  to  lofeph  doth  appear 5 
 
 Who  above  all  his  Brethren  was  my  dear. 
 
 But  oh  !  my  daughter,  how  much  am  f  boaiid  f 
 
 To  you,  for  undeferved  favours  found; 
 
 But  Ufeph  more,  a  Princeffc  uf  vourftate 
 
 So  lowly  to  deicend  to  be  his  mate? 
 
 G'^d  make  him  worthy  of  your  grace  and  love. 
 
 And  that  he  may  as  acceptable  prove 
 
 To  you  his  dear,  as  he  was  wont  be  bleft 
 
 V\^ith  higheft  favours,  always  of  the  bed. 
 
 For  he  dith  m'  in  Bor.cluge ,  Prfn^duyt^ 
 
 [n  grace  was  always  with  the  better  fort. 
 
 [  Potifhar  the  GuoUr,  and  the  King 
 
 Beft  lov*d  and  trufted  h  m  n  every  thing. 
 
 Then  A(en  ^  ^  x  wifh  you  were  oblcrved 
 ■lere,  my  ^t^x  fdi'^loer .  as  you  have  dcferved: 
 \s  for  your  Son  n.)nobi^ne(Tc  of  birth 
 slor  i&?;prfdow/ers  can  countervail  his  worth  j 
 /^/ho  me  hath  t  ughc  the  vanity  of  f^ate, 
 ^e  vooYtiaj  make  a^  h^py  of  my  mate; 
 'Uch  is  his  worth  2nd  roblcnelTe  of  inind, 
 
 won Jer  not  that  \\^  fhoulJ  ravour  find  \ 
 
 ^mongft  the  befl: :  Hut  (ball  1  you  intreat 
 
 o  tdi  your  daughur,  wha^  you  Uiic  to  eat^ 
 
 For 
 
74  Thefifih  look  cf  Jof  cph 
 
 For  here  you  all  raufl  as  at  home  command, 
 We  but  defire  your  will  to  underftand. 
 
 Daughter,  faith  lacol^^  I  was  never  nice. 
 Nor  dainty  to  confume  things  of  high  price. 
 That's  always  beft  you  eafiliefl:  can  prepare. 
 Better  are  homely  Gates  then  forei»  fare. 
 My  hcard*s  my  food,  my  (heep  my  clothing  breed, 
 No  better  wear  I,  nor  no  other  feed  : 
 Six  fcore  and  ten  years  have  1  been  content 
 To  live  on  milk,  fruits,  and  fuch  nouriftiraent , 
 Yet  few  or  none  that  to  mine  age  attain, 
 •  So  ftrong  of  body  are,  and  free  from  pain* 
 But  above  all,  the  weather  being  fair, 
 I  love  to  walk  abroad  in  frefheft  air ; 
 After  my  mornings  draught,  to  ftir,  is  good 
 For  to  refrefli  the  Spirits  and  warm  the  blood. 
 This  is  the  way  difeafes  to  prevent, 
 I  thank  GodJ  nc  r  knew  what  phyfick  meant. 
 Thus  whilft  they  talk  in  plain  familiar  fort, 
 Lo  lofefh  unexpeded  comes  from  Court, 
 And  tcls  his  father,  how  he  did  prcfent 
 His  brethren  to  the  King,  who  is  content 
 Them  to  employ  according  to  their  breeding. 
 In  looking  unco  Sheep,  and  cattcl  feeding. 
 And  now  he  much  defires  to  fee  your  face, 
 And  with  all  Courtty  honofr  you  to  grace ; 
 I  {lacoh  faith)  with  all  my  heart  will  go 
 To  ihdit  ^eoci  King,  that  lofeph  honours  fo. 
 But  I  defire  of  him  no  greater  grace. 
 Than  to  live  in  his  LW,  and  fee  thj  Face ; 
 ]  hope  he  likewife  will  conceive  my  breeding. 
 And  leave  me  to  my  flocks,  and  Cattel  feeding. 
 
 Joftph  his  Father  then  to  Pharaoh  brings. 
 Who  doing  firfV  Obeifancc  due  to  Kings, 
 Begins,  Oh  I  bleffed,  bleft  thou  ever  be. 
 That  rais*d  ray  hfeph  to  fuch  Dignity, 
 
 Fro 
 
The  fifth  Book  0/ Jof  eph .  '75 
 
 From  Dungeon  where  ftocks  did  his  Limh  cntoul. 
 
 And  yrons  enter'd  ev*n  into  his  Soul, 
 
 To  rule  all  E^ypt  by  thy  borrowed  might. 
 
 And  be  alone  great  Pharaohs  Favorite, 
 
 And  bleft  be  ay  for  thy  benignity 
 
 Who  faveft  me  and  all  my  Family 
 
 From  periftiing ,  Alas-!  for  want  of  food, 
 
 God  render  in  thy  bofom  all  thy  good. 
 
 And  double  thy  fore-Fathers  days  upon 
 
 Thee,  and  thy  feed,  that  fit  upon  thy  throne. 
 
 Thus  ends  the  S^ge :  when  Pharaoh  thus  repli'd, , .. . 
 How  much  more  caufe  have  I  to  blefs  the  tide,  ^-^  ^ 
 That  noble /^/^/J^  did  to  £j:7P^  drive,  '\; 
 
 To  lave  me  and  my  people  all  alive :  * 
 
 Come  hither  lacob^  let  roe  thee  embrace. 
 How  can  I  but  love  thee,  and  all  thy  race. 
 Whom  now  as  Caufe  and  Author  I  do  fee 
 Oilofepht  Father  ofall  mine  and  me;  ,^ 
 
 It  joys  me  y/r^<?/moft  exceedingly. 
 When  I  thy  fon  in  ought  can  gratifie,  '] 
 
 To  whom  ray  Kingdom,  Life,  and  all  I  ow. 
 As  thou  and  thine, and  all  the  people  know: 
 God  fent  thy  lofeph^  as  a  man  before. 
 To  lay  up  here  againft  this  famine  flore, 
 For  had  we  not  by  his  forefight  been  fed, 
 We,  thou  and  all,  for  want,  had  periHied.  ^    * 
 
 Thy  lofeph  doth  inform  my  Senatonrs^ 
 And  Wifdom  teach  unto  my  CounfclLurs  : 
 Well  may  he  rule  then  o'r  my  houff  and  Land, 
 And  all  my  (ubftancc  have  at  his  command  5 
 1  am  to  this  by  Prwidtncs  but  led, 
 God  hath  indeed  thus  /^/^f/&  honoured. 
 Thou  feemfl:  of  no  \t{s  wifdom  and  defert, 
 Then  good  old  father,  tell  how  cid  thou  art  \ 
 And  in  what  courfe  thou  hait  worn  out  this  term,' 
 I  ask  not  to  examine,  but  to  leam^    ,. 
 
 Exam- 
 
J6  The  fifth  Book  of  lofcph . 
 
 Ezsimples  more  than  prcccp's  ceach  to  live; 
 
 Good  King,  faith  fctcoh^  chou  doeft  ev'n  revive 
 My  older  age,  to  hear  thy  wondi  ous  love 
 To  'ofeph^  who  more  than  my  fcli'  I  love. 
 But  feeing  thou  inquired  of  mine  age. 
 Know  that  the  days  here  of  my  P  l^rimw&^ 
 A  hundred  and  full  thi  ty  years  have  been^ 
 The  days  are/^n?  and  iH  whi.eh  I  have  feen  j 
 Nor  have  I  yet  attained  to  the  age, , 
 And  days  of  ray  forefathers  Pil^  imige* 
 Two  things  I  liudy  hercefpeciaily, 
 The  firft  to  Lve  well,  fecond  well  to  die^ 
 For  what  is  all  our  life  once  gone  and  pad*, 
 15ut  ev'n  a  way  unto  our  happy  lad. 
 The  term  from  ^hetce  to  ail  fie  fh  is  the  JVom^p 
 That  whither  all  do  haften  is  the  Tor?t^: 
 He  happielT  here ,  who  findeth  on  the  way, 
 Feweft  impediments  his  courfe  to  ftay. 
 Some  pals  through/^r^^jf/^,  poverty,  fomc  TPt^lth, 
 Hcnour yvreferm.  rit ^  fUajtire^flrrertT^th  and  healthy 
 Some  equally  of  both  participate. 
 This  is  the  mstn^  yet  :afe  and  happicd:  F^e^ 
 The  highcft  I  did  ever  here  affaire, 
 And  in  this  (late  I  liill  to  live  defire. 
 The  higheft  honours  to  your  G^^ce  are  due. 
 For  Ged  hath  with  a  Kingdom  honourd  you, 
 Whereofyou  have  your  fcif  moft  worthy  fhowri. 
 In  looking  to  Gods  Gory  nor  your  own. 
 Wifely  therefore,  I  fpeak  it  to  your  praife, 
 You  honour  them,  whom  God  would  have  you  raife. 
 And  in  your  Kingdom  prudently  deprefs, 
 Thofe  whom  God  hateth  for  their  wickednefss 
 Thus  needs  your  government  mud  happy  be. 
 When  Ki-g  and  ^enatoHrs  in  one  agree. 
 The  proud  to  caft  down,  and  to  raife  the  jud"^ 
 So  may  the  Rulers  one  another  truftt 
 
 :  '  God 
 
Thepjtb  Book  of  ioleph.  77 
 
 God  that  from  Famine  us  delivered. 
 
 And  by  a  dream  foretold,  thee  counfelled 
 
 Both  for  thy  Imd^  and  houftiould  to  provide, 
 
 And  all  the  world  3  which  elfe  for  want  had  died. 
 
 Feed  thee  wich  inward  and  fpiritnal  grace, 
 
 And  give  in  heav'n  an  everlafling  place; 
 
 For  this,  I  your  poor  Beadfman  night  and  day. 
 
 Will  in  a  homely  country  cottage  pray. 
 
 Pharaoh  much  joy'd, would  fain  have  entcrtaixi'd,. 
 
 And  him  at  his  own  boord  with  bread  fuftaiii'di 
 
 But  good  old  lacob  modeftly  deni'd, 
 
 And  laid,  how  long  have  I  on  earth  to  bide? 
 
 I  cannot  now  of  good  from  ill  make  choice, 
 
 Nor  raufique  judge  by  inftrument  or  voice^ 
 
 Why  fhould  I  be  a  burthen  to  the  King} 
 
 And  he  reward  fo  my  fmall  meriting. 
 
 But  let  my  Son  for  me  before  thee  ftand, 
 
 And  ready  always  be  at  thy  command . 
 
 Good  man,  faith  Pharaoh^  I  have  given  command 
 To  place  thee  in  the  fattefl  of  my  Lmd^ 
 The  Litnd  o^Gofhen  be  a  habitation 
 To  thee,  thy  children  and  thy  generation. 
 There  is  bcft  pafturc  ground  tor  them  to  keep , 
 Their  Camels^  Apf^  Cattels,  Gotes^  and  Sheep. 
 To  raife  to  place  of  honour  Idefire 
 f  hce  and  thy  fens,  but  they  of  me  require 
 Still  to  be  Heardsmen ;  wherefore  the  mod  bold 
 And  aftive,  I  make  Rulers  ofmyfoM. 
 Then  lacob  bleffing  Pharaoh  did  depart 
 Out  of  his  prefence  with  a  joyfull  heart. 
 
 Scv*nteen  years  after  in  proi'perity, 
 Liv'd  lacob jZvA  did  greatly  multiply, 
 (^nd  lofefh  in  his  former  Grace  did  fland , 
 y\\\  under  Pharaohs  ruling  all  the  Land 
 ^or  might  be  ere  out  of  his  Maflers  fighf, 
 Recall  fe  he  was  his  only  Favour Jte^ 
 
 rill 
 
7*  Tljefifih  B.ok  oflok^h . 
 
 Till  one  day  lofeph  abfent  from  the  Court, 
 Pharaoh  befpeaks  his  fervants  in  this  fort. 
 
 Nere  thrice  ten  times  the  Sun  with  panting  horfc 
 Hath  run  through  heav'n  his  fwifc  and  yearly  courfe 
 Since  firft  arofc,  in  this  our  hotter  clime , 
 That  Hehrtv^  Sun,  which  ever  fince  did  fhine, 
 And  all  the  time  he  did  in  Court  appear  , 
 We  have  had  Spring  and  Summer  all  the  year , 
 I  cannot  eat  by  day  nor  fleep  by  night. 
 Without  his  Beams  moft  comfortable  bright; 
 That  honcft  man,  in  whofe  ingenuous  face , 
 A  man  may  read  what  in  his  heart  hath  place; 
 Now,  by  my  life,  I  higher  do  efteem 
 This  Hebrew^  than  great  Egy^a  BUdem^ 
 Nor  is  it  to  the  lead  of  you  unknown. 
 He  hath  been  better  to  me  than  my  crown. 
 And  bears  ftill  for  me,  to  all  mens  content , 
 The  weight  of  all  my  Kingdoms  Government, 
 In  thofe  fev*n  years  o^Famin  and  of  Store  ^ 
 When  his  employments  greater  were  and  more^ 
 If  he  were  but  one  day  out  of  my  fight, 
 I  certain  was  to  hear  from  him  at  night , 
 But  now  of 's  light  hath  been  ncer  three  days  paufc, 
 .Yet  no  man  here  will  tell  to  me  the  caufe. 
 
 When  thus  the  Bat/er  (who  by  Pharaoh's  grace 
 ReftorM  was  as  he  Dream*d  to's  former  place) 
 Dread  Sovereign  I  fome  fmall  clouds  do  in  this  fort 
 Shadow  his  beams,  which  wont  to  (hine  at  Court  : 
 But  no  dtkd:  in  his  ay-con(lant  light , 
 He's  ftill  the  iame ,  and  (bines  as  ever  bright. 
 Jofeph  at  home  for  Pharaoh's  health  now  prays , 
 To  Ifraei's  God,  thefe  are  his  mourning  day?; 
 His  Father  vidnow  deeps  in  happy  reft. 
 Who  dying  made  to  him  this  laft  requeft. 
 
 My  deareft  Son,  the  honour  of  my  race. 
 If  m  d>y  fight  tby  Father  bath  found  grace, 
 
 (For 
 
The  fifth  Bocke  $f  Jolc^h^  ^       -^ 
 
 (For  though  thou  art  my  fonne  by  true  relation. 
 Yet  I  ?.m  fubjVd  to  thy  domination  j 
 Now  gracioufly  and  crnely  with  me  deale, 
 Not  for  my  TrivaiCy  but  our  common  weak  5 
 Well  do  \  know  that  o«r  pofteritie 
 Will  foone  admire  faire  fliowes  and  ranitic, 
 And  not  rtgud  the  Lmd if  hafpmtffe, 
 Ti.e  fype  of  futH^e  and  ofpreftnf  bieiTe, 
 Thercfote  to  me,  my  deareft  loftph^  fwcar, 
 Tnou  \vilt  roc  me  in  ££p;  here  cnterre, 
 Bat  fafely  cxrry  to  the  /a^a  cf  Refli 
 W- ith  my  fureftthcrs  there  my  3oncs  to  reft: 
 It  may  be  ours  will  foonvr  haften  thither. 
 Where  all  thi?ir  f/ttbtrs  Bones  doe  lye  togithcr. 
 Then  lofiph  fwarc  and  //t^jW  worfhipped, 
 l^^FtAreof  IJaack,(^iimgo^  his  bed. 
 Thefc  words  he  mc  dcfir'd,  wicfi  many  teares^ 
 Th»t  \  would  publi(h  in  King  Fh^^eh  earcs, 
 And  Licence  of  thee  to  that  end  obt^ine, 
 VVhfch  done  he  would  to  Court  returne  againe. 
 
 When  Phufhihv^i :  ^sthat  guod  old  man  dead, 
 Like  app*e  ripe  in  Amumne  gathered? 
 We  all  muft  follow,  who  can  teii  how  foon, 
 Som  fall  at  night, at  morning, (omc  at  noon? 
 But  I  df  fire,  if  any  here  can  tell. 
 How  that  good  old  man  dide,  that  liv'il  fo  well. 
 Formoft  what  itbefalsmortalicie,  , 
 
 *A$  they  have  lived  here,  ev'n  fo  to  dye.  i 
 
 Good  lofeplf^  <iith  the  Butler,  thus  me  told, 
 That  Us&b  growing  weakc,  as  he  grew  old^  ^ 
 
 He  £^^ri8?»  and  (Ji/'*^«>ii|f^/ his  two  fonncs^ 
 Takes  with  him,  and  unto  his  Fathers  come?, 
 Wherewith  his  w? akcnefle  greail?  comforted ^       - 
 JHettkcs  his  ftrcngth,  and  fits  spin  his  bed,  ^v. 
 
 And  thus  begins :  My  forne,  my  Jofeph  dearCi 
 Ihc  God  almightic  did  to  me  appearc 
 
8o  The  fifth  Bioke  of  Jofcph. 
 
 At  Lu:l  in  ^4«44«,whcrc  he  did  mcblefff, 
 And  promiCe  t  >  mv  fc^ed  much  fruicfulneffc, 
 Ai^uHng  me  ro  maktr  a  mightie  N^ti^m^ 
 And  give  that  LitM  unto  my  Generation: 
 For  tbcfe  two  fonn'.  s  God  here  hath  giv'n  to  thee, 
 Bi^ore  my  coming,  thou  Ilia k  give  them  me. 
 As  Simeon  and  RubiWy  they  are  mine,  [^ 
 
 Thv  Children  fince  begotten,  fliall  be  thine: 
 Thcfte  twot  I  meane,  Otall  be  two  Tribes^  The  reft 
 In  thcfc  Trihes  names, fhall  be  of  jL^wi poflfeft, 
 For  J  a  double  portion  thee  allot, 
 As  iTy  Firfi  hrn :  B^eaufc  I  thee  begot 
 Of  Rashi  dearc,  my  firft,  my  lawful  Wife, 
 Who  on  my  hand  in  Canum  left  her  life. 
 Her  there,  alas !  I  buried  on  the  way 
 To  Sfhr4ts^Q'<k\\'i  Beth'lem to  this  day. 
 Bui  what  are  thefc  two  Lads,  my  lofephAtty^ 
 ^y  fonncf,faith  7o/>p/?,God  firft  gave  me  heef. 
 Oh  !  bring  rhcm  me  faith  lacob  to  this  place, 
 Before  Idit,tokf{le, blcffc  and  embuce: 
 Sv%eet  Boyes  1  Good  hfefh^  I  nerc  thought  indeed 
 To  fct  thy  face,  but  now  1  (ec  thy  feed: 
 The  */^«j<iw  then,  though  he  were  dimme  of  fight. 
 His  l«ft  hind  on  M^wapf,  tnd  his  right 
 On  younger  ^^^r^/w  laye?,  and  wittingly, 
 Thus  bkilt  :th /f?/if^4  in  his  Progeny: 
 'God  in  whofc  (ight  I  here  hire  walk'd  alway. 
 Who  all  m)  Life-longfcd  me  to  this  day, 
 ThcGodofyf^r/f»,  and  gEcat//i<^f/^/ dread, 
 And  th'  Aftge/J  which  hath  me  delivered 
 From  evili,blcrffe  thcfe  Lads,  and  let  my  name 
 With  name  of  Jfa-nek^^vA  ofjll^raham, 
 Be  in  then  nam'd  and  in  their  Tribes  rencw'd, 
 And  grow  on  earth  ev'n  to  a  multitude. 
 But  it  difpleafing  was  to  hfephs^ght. 
 To  fee  90  Bfhrums  hcadi  him  lay  kit  right. 
 
 An4 
 
rhe fifth  Booke$f]o{^ciph.  f       %i 
 
 And  on  rJHaifalfef  hit  left  hand  to  pUcf  ; 
 And  would  hit  firfl  hsrn  y9kh  the  right  h&ud  grace- 
 But  /acolf  nonld,  buc  faid  I  know  indeed 
 The  Fir  ft  yarn  ftiall  be  great :  But  lo  !  the  feed 
 OF  Sphraim,  fhall  be  greater  farrc  then  he, 
 And  a  moreftrong  and  niightie  people  be. 
 Thus  aged  latolf  bkk'd  them  both  that  day, 
 And  fi*d  in  thee  let  I/raelbkffc  and  fay, 
 God  fend  thee  Efkraims  and  Manaffes  ftore. 
 But  Efhraim  he  LManajfes  let  before : 
 Then  fitid  be,  Lo  !  I  die,  now  out  of  hand. 
 And  God  (hall  briog  >oa  to  your  fathers  land. 
 Then  ere  he  died,  hfi  fwan-likc  fung  chii  fong, 
 Moft  fwcet,  oscaufc  he  liv'd  not  after  long, 
 
 facoh  laji  hlejling. 
 
 Sith,  my  dearc  fonnes,  I  have  not  fong  to  dwell 
 On  earth,  come  hicricr :  and  1  will  y  ou  te\U 
 What  (hall  come  on  you  in  the  latter  daycs, 
 i  Afrt.mblc  and  attend  your  Fathers  Sayes : 
 
 My  firft  born  RnbeUy  thou  that  art  the  might,       ^  |^^^ 
 And  firft  beginning  ofmyftrength by  right,  £,^3. 
 
 Thou  (houldft  have  all  my  Power  and  Dignitic, 
 Which  thou  haft  loft  by  thine  iniqukic, 
 Vnftable  water  1  thou  flialc  not  be  head, 
 Becattfe  thou  wentft  up  to  thy  fathers  bed, 
 For  then  indesd  thou  didil  ray  couch  defile, 
 And  thy  true  right  of  nrft  born  I  oil  the  while. 
 
 Simeon  and  Ltvl^  Brethren,  inftruracots  2.  SU 
 
 Of  cruelty,  neatc  to  your  fathers  tentf,  mtoni^ 
 
 My  foulc  come  not  near  to  their  con^^rcgation?,      .Lev?. 
 Mine  honour  joyne  not  in  their  tnachioations, 
 Wbo.in  their  ki^ratk  the  Sichewites  Hew  all. 
 And  in  thsic  Fp^ry  digged  down  a  wail: 
 
 Ra  Curft 
 
t%  The  fifth  Beak  »fjnfcph. 
 
 Cur  ft  be  tht  if  m-Mfh,  for  it  wai  royd  of  fvitfic, 
 Avd  Fiercffteffs  wi  Jch  WM  cruelly  to  bUmC; 
 Lo  1  ■  their  (ti  d  in  /acoif  will  divide, 
 And  thrm  tbraad  in  IfrafJ  icatter  wide^ 
 
 ^fn"        ludah  is  nc];t,  whom  all  his  brcckrcn  priifc, 
 
 daif,      Thinr  hawd  be  in  thiac  cnctnic*  neckc  alwaye*, 
 Th?  Fathers  Children  thee  fhall  ftoupc  before, 
 Lo  /Mcislfflskc  a  Ljofij  wbelpe  (hjli  rorc. 
 My  rof»B<?  cofflci  like  a  Lisn  from  the  fpoilc. 
 Who  iatd  him  downe,an,d  couchd  himfclfeiwhilc^ 
 EvV.  i?kc  a  Lim  or  a  Liont^e, 
 Who^sres  a\v^ke  him  tirow  hii  flcepinc ffc  ? 
 The  4!?tf^^/#r  froKi  his  race  fnal!  never  ftart, 
 ^ot^Law  givn  from  hii  feet  depart, 
 Till  the  Mcfias  come,  who  to  him  fhall 
 By  his  grctc  powrc  the  Nations  gather  all? 
 Lo  I  hei>.all  -binde  his  FomU  «nto  the  Vi»et 
 His  Golt  unto  the  Branch,  His  Cjokc  in  Wine 
 J9  w»rbt;  His  Cloths  with  bloud  of  grspcs  bedight, 
 
 .  Eyes  red  with  winc;Hi«  Teeth  with  milk  are  white. 
 
 lidci        ^^^ ^'^  ^'^"'■^  ZAkulon  fliali  dwell  bcfidc, 
 And'f  Border  cv'n  to  Sidon  (liall  divide. 
 
 ^  jr^        Like  tfirttng  ^fft  fhall  Ifactfdr  couch  low 
 
 ^IjJ^^/  Bttwecne  t»o  i>urthcD«,  And  for  h^  doth kaow 
 That  reft  h  gaod  in  fnch  a  pUafant  Landf 
 Sha  1  ftoupe  and  be  anothers  to  commatid. 
 
 7  7)An.      ^^  ^*^^  ^^  ^^^l'  ^^^  OTitoilfratbTrihsy 
 *  A  ftrftent  by  the  way  him  well  dcfcribes, 
 Or  Adder  in  ^hc  path,  horfc-heelcf  to  giH, 
 Vot ill  he  flaakc  the  rider  bickwaid  fall: 
 To  be  fc  ludgc's  a  dangerous  Vocstiffm, 
 Lord  I  fftft^e  waited  long  for  thy  SdJvdtstrf* 
 
 ^  5^^'      An  h (■  il  ^>f  men  Gdd  downe  in  war  (hall  cift. 
 Yet  they  O^ail  over. come  him  tt  the  laft, 
 
 f  A  fir.  jffgf,  ffoia  f^rreft  Lands  hii  bread  (hall  bring, 
 AoA  ^%il  cDJojr  ev'a  pictfurcs  for  a  King. 
 
The  fifth  Bdfk^fjoiti^hi  %% 
 
 Nafthalim  it  «s  nimfcle  as  the  hini,  ^^-  -P- 
 
 But  favour  fcckcs  with  pkafing  worcfs  to  fod:       *^^^^^- 
 Uftfh's  hke  plant  by  well,  whok  boughs  aic  fmflMj,  n  5F0. 
 Yer  run  up  flourifhing  upon  the  wall,  l^fy- 
 
 With  ihoouang  many  t/irehtrj  hi^re  him  ^sjm'd; 
 And  wich  Qitrp  D^rts  to's  hmdranec  him  iifam.*J| 
 But  he  ftarids  faft,  his  armct  arc  m%^t:  fo  ftrong 
 ^  By  God,  to  whom  all  ftrcngth  and  power  belong,  . 
 '  His  glory  all  his  brethren  doth  tfxccll^ 
 And  hee's  become  a  ftone  in  JfrMtk 
 His  Fathcfs  God  (hall  helpe  him  from  abovfj^ 
 And  i\\c  Almightit  with  hts  Blenjj>s  prove* 
 With  bkfJing*  that  from  hiighth  &  'cprh  fiiilcoiB 
 With  BleiTinggof  thr  BreUs  and  orihc  Woa«b, 
 To  thee  rhy  Fathcri  Bkilings  be  morr;  iiroog. 
 Then  thofc  chic  doe  from  msnc,  to  me  belong: 
 From  th'Qtmoftbilschcy  light  otxhfephs\\<^i^ 
 That  from  his  3' ethnn  once  was f-verrd. 
 
 B  MJamim  like  a  Wolfe  Hull  fpotie  :  The  prey       a  *  ^^* 
 H^"  (hall  divide  by  night,  and  eacc  by  day.  i^j^sis. 
 
 Thus  I*iCai)ioft2ich  fcverallprophccide. 
 What  fhould  to  their  Pofi:critic  betide; 
 Some  call  it  his  Ufi  wiB:  Then  to  them  all. 
 He  dying  fpak«  thefc  words  itj  general (. 
 
 We  all  are  l^ilgrims  on  the  way,  our  hoim 
 Js  H<f»iz/*»;ai  all  men  cnrer  by  the  Wombc*, 
 So  through  tkcGdte ^^'Dsath,  wc  all  rnuft  <iji?c. 
 Before  we  at  this  Cttit  fairc  arrive: 
 Lufls  of  our  youth,  Infirmities  of  ige. 
 Make  few  and  ill  our  ^aus  ofTilgrimitgi, 
 All  fpend  like  LMmptSoanc  bio /^ne  oat  with  a  B!a{l 
 Some  waft,fomc  mclr,  fomc  hold  00c  till  the  h'^ : 
 Like  frait  all  bJow^bud.grow  grecnc,ripf ,  then  ftSf, 
 Bud  bioiTorae,  green,  or  ripe,  we  perifb  all; 
 And  tarr^'d  to  dull:. arc  undcrr  Otaihi  futjcdbn 
 In  Crav0i  uncill  the  day  of  RefurrcdiOD, 
 
 R  y  3  Em 
 
I4  •/ ^^  Pr^'  DooKt  Of  J  oicpn. 
 
 Ev'n  as  oar  atgts,  fo  wf  changr  our  mind^ 
 Forthofc  things  we  doc  mofl  dclightfull  find 
 To  (^hiU-ho9d-^TtHth dtfdains  eurj9Uth  fnll fint 
 Accord  not  with  our  rf^^r^^^ir//  de(irc$: 
 OU-itgi  in  none  of  all  the  three  delights. 
 The  rw  afon's  plainc,  wc  fcrvc  our  appciitet, 
 Truth  and  Religions  path  arc  Icjvc  to  trade, 
 And  follow  ^%  out  Lufls  and  Plcafures  lead, 
 Which  alter  with  our  bodies  c^nftitutioof, 
 And  thcfe  are  fenfuall,  bcaftly  refolotions: 
 Bat  who  doth  his  sfFedlions  mt- afurc  by 
 Right  rules  oii?ff^/^», and  o^Titue^ 
 Them  never  alters,  but  is  ftill  the- fame, 
 All  tending  to  the  glory  of  God«?  name: 
 No  change  of  f^Att,  dgeM^lfh*  wealthy  cotiHimtUtt, 
 Can  alter  fueh  defircs  and  iMl/lut'on. 
 
 Thi<  Life's  a  rnhnte  to  StemitU, 
 Like  m-^hc  unco  rhc  ^hbesimmen^tie. 
 Lik'/  df  op  compared  ontu  tkc  Ocgan  mainty 
 Yf there  weeirher  all  imfi:  iofc  or  gaice; 
 Vpon  i\{\^mUc,dr(>p,minHtediMh  depend, 
 All  Bli([s,  we  aye  continue  a$  wc  end. 
 
 All  Gods  moft  gracious,  glorious  promifcs, 
 But/7;>tf/and  .yA^i^jrj  are  of  future  Hkllc; 
 fbiKfi  onLand,u%  to  the  *P#rr  to  light;  (night,- 
 
 And  guide  our  B^rkj  through  worlds  darke  miftjr 
 !r>all our  voiage, through  worlds  0r^4w-wili, 
 Are  many  Reckes  and  daggers  to  be  pafl- 
 Without  are  SatA»  jied  uie  Worlds  infedioni. 
 Within,  our  Lufts,  vainc,  fraile,  and  vil«  affediont, 
 Which  like  fo  man^  Trairours  ready  lie 
 Againft  the  Pilot  ay  to  mutiny; 
 But  moft  in  danger  of  them  all  wc  fttnd, 
 When  nearcft  we  approch  unto  the  Land: 
 So  fora«  efcape  the  boiftrous  raging  Sea, 
 And  nccrc  the  Port  doe  vrreckc  upon  the  Lta: 
 
 I 
 
I  looking  backc  my  <pan  like  daics  behold. 
 
 Like  a  fantaftique  Drcsms  or  tklc  new  told. 
 
 And  were  I  now  thf  m  to  begin  again, 
 
 I  (hould  all  world  y  v^ine  delights  rcfrai«,  ^^ 
 
 Yea  coold  you  itthmvnsj^jes  dv  Fairhs  clcerc  eyes 
 
 You  wo  old  wich  me  W^rUs  FU^fHrtt  VMntdtffiff^ 
 
 And  runnc  faft  to  the  mark?  you  fee  before 
 
 Your  end,  to  live  with  God  for  evermore. 
 
 As  th'aire  ii  hottcft  neereft  to  tht  Sunne, 
 
 Brookes  deeper,  necrcr  to  the  Set  they  runflj. 
 
 So  nearer  to  your  end;  do  you  afpire 
 
 To  grow  in  grace,  and  glow  with  heav'nly  fire; 
 
 Now  goeIhcnce,and  ftull  be  fcene  no  more. 
 
 Have  mine  examples  alwii-s  you  b>  fere. 
 
 So//«4r^^foliowed  fiithfiili  Ahrahim^ 
 
 I  holy  IfaMck^^from  whole  loints  I  cam'', 
 
 What  we  did  well  doc  yc»a  the  like  :  But  wfeeo 
 
 We  did  amiflc,  obfcfve  vve  were  but  men. 
 
 Oh  let  your  wifedomt  fliine  with  your  gray  hftircij, 
 
 Moftof  you  ROW  draw  nc\rc  of  icv'ntyy  cares, 
 
 /§fepk  is  fifty  fcv'n,  a  child  cv'n  when 
 
 The  moft  of  you,  were  growa  up  to  be  nfien. 
 
 Sey'aty  fcv'n  yearcs  a  fingle  life  lied, 
 God  fince  hath  fev'ncy  to  tkem  numbred; 
 The  youngell  nor  th«  iirongeft  have  no  power j» 
 To  addc  a  minute  to  their  fitall  howcr, 
 Dcferre  nocof  Repcnta;  cc  then  the  date, 
 Now  is  the  time,  to  morrow  is  too  late. 
 Count  all  mens  ages  that  on  earth  remaine. 
 More  die  before,  then  to  yotir  dales  attaine. 
 And  (bould  you  old  ^MAthnfeUts  funnount. 
 The  longer  life,  the  greiter  your  2ccouac, 
 
 I  will  not  exprobratc  offences  patt. 
 Repent,  amend,  and  turnc  to  God  at  lad* 
 Leave  oft  tofiiine,  his  Promifes  believe, 
 Yoa  caRQOC  askit  fo  niucb  as  God  will  gtve^ 
 
 R4;  Yoa 
 
t6  The  fifth  Booke  of  Jok^h. 
 
 Yon  arc  a  cho  fen  feed,  a  h»lj  rdee^ 
 Not  bv  dtfert,  or  wfrthinefif  buiirdie. 
 Oh  makt  it  known  to  all  vour  Gcncrationj, 
 God  uvhathchofe  before  a'l  other  Nations, 
 To  walk  here  worthy  of  hhgract  diYinc, 
 And  like  to  pureH  hcav'niy  Tapen  fhiae, 
 In  this  worlds  fnilly  d^rk  obfcurcd  night, 
 Whofc  evil  works  abhor  to  fee  the  light 
 
 Expednot  worlds  vain  ^lory,pompand  ftatc, 
 Thofc  thatlivegodly  here,  the  world  wiliiutc; 
 But  God  dorh  ev.  r  them  m-  11  highly  prfzc, 
 ^  ho  here  are  mrancft  in  the  witii<*<l>eycs. 
 The  World  will  you  deride,  and  fay  that  chi«. 
 But  foine  vain,  p  eviili,  fimple  humour  is ; 
 Orfomc  Ighc  idlcnaotion,  which  dothnfc 
 From  fonic  mean,  ignorant, conceited  wife; 
 Defpife  their  ccnfures,  for  I  certain  know 
 Tbxfpirit ,  whence  fwck  hcav'niy  motions  flow; 
 What  care  I  how  their  worldly  wifdom  deem 
 Of  them,  fo  they  with  y*^  be  in  cltcem  ? 
 OhI  were  my  words  mo^^  written  in  a  bo'-k, 
 That  vvho  fo  lift  to  leans  on  fhem  might  look ; 
 Or  with  a  ^tAmonds  point  ingrivc*  pUin 
 Oa  s^damant^fot  ever  to  remain. 
 
 I  know  that  mv  Rfdeemer  zrnc  and  jufi: 
 Lives,  and  (hali  raifc  us  ac  the  Idl  from  djft; 
 Atid  uliongli  the  woims  my  ^kin  and  flcili  dcftroy, 
 I  God  (hiW  in  my  body  fee  with  joy, 
 Ev*n  With  miac  own.  aod  with  no  other  eycf; 
 15ut  now  myfpirit  bfgias  fo  high  to  rife. 
 As  if  Aie  meant  to  leave  this  bibication. 
 And  fly  to  heav'n,  by  holy  contemplation ; 
 Oft  hath  [he  ftriv*d  to  rife  before  this  day,  ^ 
 As  weary  of  her  brittle  Tent  of  clay ; 
 But  hath  been  by  the  weight  thereof  deprcfl, 
 Sue 00 w  (he  feels  her  fi;lf  from  thcpce  rclcall. 
 
r^x  fifth  B^oh  ^Z' Jofeph. 
 Ictnnot  !ii^,  my  Lamp  fo  faft  doth  fpcnd, 
 And  nov^  bnrns  clcarcl^,  nc^crcft  to  th«  end, 
 f  ircwei  dcai  Tons,  my  blcfling  on  you  all 
 Coiitinucto  your  ifter-ag^s  Ihall. 
 Oh  (7* .'  ofLifiy  uovv  thou  doft  mc  deny 
 The  ?fi*/r  rtf />W,  »«e  wiiiing  make  iodic. 
 
 Thefe  all  arc  thofc  rwclve  Trihis  offfrdil. 
 Which  good  old  Ja^oh  okil  and  wiihcd  well: 
 Belidesthc  bkfling  to  each  feveral, 
 Wherein  he  told  thim  what  fhould  after  fall. 
 And  now  as  fo/tph  cr 0:  he  made  to  fwear. 
 So  chargeth  he  er*n  all  his  children  there. 
 To  lay  him  in  that  place  of  Rurial, 
 Where  his  Forcfatheri  were  interred  all. 
 Thus  when  his  fwan-Iikefong  wasatanead, 
 And  all  comm^ndc  d  chac  he  did  intend, 
 He  plucked  up  hi^  feet  ifico  the  bed, 
 Acd  was  unto  hi«  people  gathered. 
 
 Oh  happy  man  1  laic b  Thar4Mh,Gad  mc  fend 
 Ey-n  fach  a  /#/>,  and  fuch  a  happy  end. 
 
 Lo,  farther  Fh^roah  did  that  day  command, 
 Thit  all  his 7eers and  Tattle/ of  theZr4»i, 
 Should  go  wkh  Jofephj  atid  his  Brcthrea  all. 
 To  honour  holy  7^^^^/  Funeral; 
 Where  they  fc¥*n  daiei  made  fo  great  iMmntdtisn, 
 They  dravc  the  ^Mnaitites  co  admiration  ; 
 And  after  he  was  buried  in  this  fort, 
 foffph  returns  again  to  l^haroahs  Court ; 
 His  Brethren  unto  Gofhtn^  where  in  peact 
 They  lived,  and  did  mightily  cncrcaf?, 
 Till  ^of€fh  was  an  hundred  ten  years  old, 
 So  that  he  Ephrdimt  children  did  behold, 
 To  their  third  Generation,  and  the  Seed 
 Of  Mdchiry  eldeft  oitMdnaffts  breed, 
 Sate  on  his  knees;  then  faith  he,  lo  I  die, 
 But  God  will  vifit  you  affarcdly, 
 
 And 
 
SS  The  fifth  n9«k*f'io{t^\\. 
 
 And  in  that  Land  a  place  for  you  prepare, 
 As  he  to  Air*lc»m,  iftsc.  facet  fware: 
 Then  as  I  fware  to  f*cci,  to  me  fw'ear, 
 Tbithgt  my  «»»«  with  y"<i  from  hence  to  bear, 
 H\*tr,thref<  fware  ;  fo  f»fefh,  m  Hold, 
 Di'd  honourably,  being  rctv  old, 
 Whofcbody  they  imbailmed  in  a  chcll. 
 And  afret  carried  to  the  X«»^  of  A/ ; 
 Where  they  ereft  a  7'iW'ir  on  his  £raye, 
 And  thereupon  this  Eft'ofh  ingtavc  .- 
 
 J  o  s  s  p  H  s    Efittfh. 
 
 His  F-ift^r/ darling.  Mothers  dear  del'Rht, 
 Objea  ofbatins  malicr .  Bretbn  ns  fpiic  ; 
 t        To  Mafter  juft, chaft,  faithful  t. hisD me; 
 In  prifon  free,  condtmn'd,  yet  void  of  blame  ; 
 Fr.m  Dungeon  rai/d  te  high^n  reputn.on, 
 •Bi  W. 'doffl,  Coui>fel.  D<.  ams,  ^'d  D.rnation. 
 Thu,God  bj  him^gre4tdc\hcut>cewr^»gbt , 
 I»  facing  »fc.«,  yh'I'i'  d.ftrua.on/.^^i. : 
 tA  diligent,  wife.  fre^;id,'>t  o'>f"»"' 
 Anith,ref>r, .f  mankind. gr cm  ptefcnrer. 
 
 /f»  Padan  htrM,  l«  Canaan  utfri/htd. 
 In  Midian  bound,  tn  Egypt  htnortd ; 
 Fr.«  irfc.»«  ti/  fo»l  fl  ^  '•  eternal  ReO , 
 Mil  Bones  W»  w  Hk:  cxpca^tion  nlf. 
 
 mr^Vd  rr,mf»min,.  King,  Pricfts  People  -//, 
 T^^hicUhis  Seed  »nd\^xwtitkejtnthr4U , 
 Vnv^rthj  Egv  pt  1  »fthis/Acred  Urn, 
 »';„/«fi&  rewards  /ir  menti  d»fi  return. 
 
 SusANNAwasofalUhyP^'wbeft, 
 BuiJossPH  Afr  excels,  a$yftc the  rcK. 
 
Tix. 
 
 t- 
 
%^'^*;v 
 
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 ■v    -^•■»^ 
 
 ^.^'^'-^-^^-l^irW^.  .