An admonition to the Parliament This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A00718 of text S102020 in the English Short Title Catalog (STC 10848). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 129 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 30 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2018 A00718 STC 10848 ESTC S102020 99837821 99837821 2165 2240905819

This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission.

Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A00718) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 2165) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 226:06) An admonition to the Parliament Fielde, John, d. 1588. Gwalther, Rudolf, 1519-1586. Bèze, Théodore de, 1519-1605. T. W. (Thomas Wilcox), 1549?-1608. [56] p. Printed by J. Stroud?, [Hemel Hempstead? : 1572] Drawn up by a group of puritans, but the actual writing quite possibly by John Fielde and Thomas Wilcox. Includes letters from Rudolf Gwalther and Théodore de Bèze. Title from caption title, A2r; A1r commences with preface "To the godly readers, grace, and peace from God. &c.". Imprint from STC. Signatures: A-C D⁴. Reproduction of the original in Yale University. Library. eng Church of England. -- Controversial literature -- Anglican authors. eebo An admonition to the Parliament. [no entry] 1572 164 23798 60 0 0 0 0 0 68.91 D The rate of 68.91 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the D category of texts with between 35 and 100 defects per 10,000 words. 2006-11 Assigned for keying and markup 2006-11 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2007-03 Sampled and proofread 2007-03 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion
To the godly Readers , Grace , and peace from God. &c.

TWo treatises yee haue heere ensuing ( beloued in Christ ) which yee must read without a a 1. Thes. 5. 21 Ia. 1. 19. 20. Iam. 2. 1. parcialitie or blinde affection . For otherwise you shal neither see their meaning : nor refraine youre selues from rashlye condemning of them , withoute infre cause . For certaine men there are of great countenaunce , whiche will not lightly like of them , bicause they principally concerne theyr persons and vaiusre dealings : whose credite is greate , and whose freendes are manye , we meane the Lordly Lords , Archbishops , Bishops , Suffraganes Deanes , Vniuersitie Doctors , and Bachelers of Diuinitie , Archdeacons , Chauncelors , and the rest of that proud generation , whose kingdome must down , hold they neuer so hard : bicause their tyrannous Lordship can not stande b b Math. 15. 13 Luke . 16. 15 with Christes kingdome . And it is the speciall mischefe of our Englishe churche , and the cheefe cause of backewardnesse , and of all breache and dissention . For they whose authoritie is c c Math. 20. 25. 26. Math. 23. 8. 9. 10. Mark. 10. 4.2 . 43. Lu. 22. 15. forbidden by Christ , will haue theyr stroke without their fellow seruaunts , yea , though vngratiously , cruelly and Pope-like they take vpon them to d d Math. 24. 48. 49. beat them , and that for theyr owne childishe Articles , being for the most part against the manifest truthe of God : First , by experience theyr rigoure hathe too plainely appeared euer since their wicked raign , and specially for the space of these fiue or six yeares last past together . Of the enormities , which with suche rigoure they maintaine these treatises doe in parte make mention , iustly crauing redresse therof . But the matters do require a larger discourse . Only the authors of those , thought it their parts to admonish you at this time , of those inconveniences which men seme not to thinke vpon , and which without reformation , cannot but increase further dissention : the one parte being proude , pontifycall and tyrannous : and the woorde of God for the other parte expresse & manifest , as if it pleased the state to examine the matters , it would be euident . And would to God , that free conference in these matters might be had . For howe so euer learned and many they seeme to be , they should and may in this realme finde inowe , to matche them , and shame them to , if they hold on as they haue begon . And out of this realme , they haue all the best reformed churches thorowout Christendom againste them , they were once of our minde , but since their consecration they be so transubstanciated , that they are be come such as you see . But in a few words to say what we meane . Ether must we haue a e e Math. 9. 37. 38. right ministerye of God , eph. 4. 11. 12 & a right f f Mat. 18. 15. 16. 17. gouernment of his churche , according to the scriptures set vp ( bothe which we lacke ) or else there can be no right religion , nor yet for contempt therof can g g Prou. 29. 18 Amos. 8. 11. 12. &c. Math. 21. 23. &c. 1. Cor. 11. 30 Goddes plagues be from vs any while deferred . And therfore though they lincke in togither , and slaunderously charge pore men ( whom they haue made pore ) with greeuous faults , calling them Puritanes , worse than the Donatistes , exasperating & setting on , such as be in authoritie against them : hauing hitherto miserably handled them , with reuilings , depriuations , imprisonments , banishments , & suche like extremities , yet is these poore mennes cause neuer the h h Math. 10. 16. 26 worse : nor these chalengers the better : nor god his i i Esay . 59. 1 hande the further of , to lincke in with his againste them : nor you ( christian brethren ) must neuer the rather without examination k k Exo. 23. 1. 2 Math. 7. 1. 2 Iam 4. 11. 12 condemne them . But thankfully take this tast which God by these treatises offereth you , & weigh them by the worde of God , and do your endeuor euery one in his l l 1. Cor. 5. 7. 1. Cor. 7. 20 calling to promote his cause . And let vs all with more m m Psal. 50. 15 Math 7. 7 1. Tim. 2. 1. 2 earnest prayer then we are wonte , earnestly commend it to God his blessyng : and namely , that it wil please him by his spirit , to lighten the heart of oure most gracious soueraigne , and the rest in authoritie , to the benefyte of his small flocke , and the ouerthrowe of theyr proude e●●emies , that godlinesse may by them procede in peace , & God his glory thorow Iesus Christ , be throughly aduaunced . Which we call God to witnesse , is our only labor and sute . And so presently we leaue you , heartily beseching God to graunt it . Amen .

An Admonition to the Parliament .

SEing that nothing in this mortal life is more diligently to be sought for , & carefully to be loked vnto a a 2. Reg. 23 2. Chro. 17. 2. Chro. ●9 30. 31. Ps 1●2 . 2. 3. 〈…〉 21. 12. Ioh● . ● . 19. than the restitution of true religion and reformation of Gods churche : it shall be your partes ( dearly beloued ) in this present Parliament assembled , as muche as in you lyeth to promote the same , and to employ your whole labour and studie , not onely in abandoning al popish remnants both in ceremonies and regiment , but also in bringing in and placing in Gods church those things only , which the Lord himselfe b b Deut 〈…〉 Deut 1● . 32. in his word comm●undeth . Because it is not enoughe to take paines in taking away euil , c c Psal. 37. 27 Rom. 12. 9 but also to be ocupied in placing good in the stead thereof . Now because many men see not al things , and the d d 1. Cor. 2. 14. world in this respect is maruelously blinded , it hath ●ea thought good to proferre to youre godly consyderations , a true platforme of a church reformed , to the end that it being laide before your eyes , to beholde the great vnlikenes betwixt it & this our english churche : you may learne either with perfect e e Psal. 31. 6 Psa. 139. 22. hatred to detest the ●●e , and with singular loue to embrace , and carefull endeuor to plant the other : or els to be without excuse before f f Iohn . 15. 22 the maiestie of our God , who ( for the discharge of our conscience , and manifestation of his truth ) hath by vs reuealed vnto you at this present , the sinceritie and simplicitie of his Gospell ▪ Not that you should either g g 2. Tim. 3. 8 wilfully withstand , or vngraciously tread h h Mat. 7. 6 the same vnder your fete , for God doth not disclose his will to any such ende , but that you should yet now a the length with all your mayne and might , endeuor that Christe ( whose i i Mat. 11. 31. easie yoke & lyght burthen we haue of long time caste off from vs ) might rule and raigne in hys church by the scepter of hys word onely .

May it therfore please your wisedomes to vnderstand , that we in England are so far off , from hauing a church rightly reformed , according to the prescripte of Gods woorde , that as yet we are scarse come to the outward face of the same . For to speak of that wherin the best consent , & whervpon al good wryters accord . The outward markes wherby a true christian church is knowne , are preaching of the woorde purely , ministring of the sacraments sincerely , and Ecclesiasticall discipline which consisteth in admonition and correction of faults seuerely . Touching the fyrst , namely the ministerie of the word , although it must be confessed that the substance of doctrine by manye deliuered , is sound and good , yet here in it faileth , that neyther the ministers therof are according to gods word proued , elected , called , or ordained : nor the function in such sort so narowly loked vnto , as of right it oughte , and is of necessyrie required . For whereas in the olde churche a trial was had , l l Act. 2. 21. Act. 6. 3. 1 Tim. 3. 2. 7 Tit. 1. 6. both of their abilitie to instruct , and of their godly conuersation also : nowe , by the letters commendatorie of some one man , noble or other , tag & rag , learned and vnlearned , of the basest m m 1. Reg. 12 31 sorte of the people ( to the sclander of the gospell in the n n Rom. 2. 24. mouthes of the aduersaries are freely receaued . In those daies o o Hebr. 5. 4. Eze. 44. 10. 12. 13. Ierem. 23. no idolatrous sacrificers or heathnish priests were apointed to be preachers of the Gospel : but we allow , and like wel of popish masse mongers , men for all seasons , King Henries priests , Queene Maryes priests , who of a truth ( if Gods word were precisely folowed ) shoulde from the same be vtterly remoued . Then p p 1. Tim. 4. 11. they taught others , now they must be instructed themselues , and therefore like yong children they q q Ninisters of London enioyned to learne M. Nowels Catchisme . must learne cathechismes , and so fyrst they consecrate them and make them ministers , and then they set them to scole . Then election was made by the Elders with the common r r Act. 1. 26. consent of the whole church : now euery one picketh out for himselfe some notable good benefyce , he obtaineth the next aduowson , by mony or by fauoure , and so thinketh himselfe to be suffyciently chosen . Then the congregation s s Act. 6. 2. 3. had authoritie to cal ministers : in stead therof now , they run , they ride , and by vnlawfull sute and buying , preuent other suters also . Then no t t Act. 14. 23. 2. Cor. 8. 19. minister placed in any congregation , but by the consent of the people : now , that authoritie is giuen into the hands of the bishop alone , who by his sole authoritie thrusreth vpon them such , as they many times aswell for vnhonest life , as also for lacke of learning , may , and do istly dislike . Then , none admitted to the ministerie , but v v Act. 1. 25. a place was voide before hand , to which he should be called : but nowe , bishops ( to whom the right of ordering ministers dothe at no hand appertaine ) do make 60. 80. or a 100. at a clap , & send them abrode into the country like masterlesse men . Then , after iust triall and vocation they were admitted to their function , by laying on of the handes of the company of the w w 1. Tim 4. 14. eldership onely : Now there is ( neither of these being loked vnto ) required a surples , ⁂ ⁂ These are required by theyr Pontificall . a vestiment , a pastoral staffe , beside that ridiculus & ( as they vse it to their new creatures ) blasphemous saying , receaue the holy ghoste . Then euery pastor x x Act. 20. 28. Ephe 4. 11. Titas . 1. 5. 1. Peter . 5. 2 had his flock , and euery flock his shepheard , or el● y y Act. 14. 23. shepheards : Now they do not only run fysking from place to place ( a miserable disorder in Gods church ) but z z Esay . 5. 8 couetously ioyne liuing to liuing making shipwracke & & 1. Tim. 1. 19. of theyr owne consciences , & being but one shepherd ( nay , wold to God they were shepherds and not wolues ) haue many flockes . Then the ministers were * * phi. 2. 20. 25 Coloss. 1. 7. Luk. 9. 2. preachers : nowe bare readers . And if any be so well disposed to preache in their owne charges , they may not without my Lordes licence . In those dayes knowne a a 1. Sa. 9. 18. mat. 26. 4. 8. math 26. 73 by voice , learning and doctrine : now they must be discerned from other by popish and Antichristian apparel , as cap , gowne , tipper . &c. Then , as God gaue vtterance b b Iohn . 6. 38. Iohn . 12. 49 1. Cor. 11. 23. they preached the word only : Now they read homilies , articles , iniunctions &c. Then c c 1. Tim. 3. 1. it was painfull : now gainfull . d d Phil. 4. 11. 2. Cor. 6. 4. 4. 10. Then pore and ignominious in the eies of the world : now rich & glorious . And therfore titles , liuings , and offices by Antichrist deuised are geuen to them , as Metropolitane , archbishop , Lords grace , Lord Bishop , Suffragan , Deane , Archdeacon , Prelate of the garter , Earl , Countie Palatine , honor , high commissyoners , iustices of peace & quorum . &c. All which , together with their offyces , as they are strange & vnhard of in Chrystes church , nay plainly f f 〈◊〉 23. 11. 12 〈◊〉 . 22. 25 1. 〈◊〉 . 11. Pet. 5. 2. 3 1. Tim. 1. 2 in gods word forbidden : So are they vtterly with spede out of the same to be remoued . Then ministers were not so tied to any one forme of prayers , but as the spirit ( g ) moued them , and as necessitie of time required , so they might poure forth harty supplications to the Lord. Now they are bound of necessytie to a h h 〈…〉 . prescript order of seruice , and boke of common prayer in which a great number of things contrary to Gods word are contained , as baptism i i 〈…〉 by women priuate k k 1. Cor. 11. 18. Communions , Ierrish l l Act. 15. 10. purifyings , obseruing m m Apod . 20. 9 of Holydaies , &c. potched ( if not all together , yet the greatest peece ) out of the Popes portius . Then n n 1. Pet. 5. 2 feding the flocke diligently : nowe teaching quarterly . Then preaching o o 2. Timo. 4. 2 inseason and out of season : Now once in a moneth is thoughte of some suffycient , if twice , it is iudged a worke of supererogation . Then nothing taught but Gods word , Now Princes pleasures , mennes deuices , popishe ceremonies , and Antichristian rites in publike pulpits desended . Then they p p phil. 2. 20. 23 sought them , Now they seeke theyrs .

☞ These , and a great many other abuses are in the ministerie remayning , which vniesse they be remoued and the truth brought in , not onely Gods iustice shall be powred forth , but also Gods church in this realme shall neuer be builded . For if they which seeme to be workemen , are no workemen in deede , but in name , or els wor● not so diligently & in such order as the works me from commaundeth , it is not onely vnlikely that the building shall go forwarde , but altogether impossible that euer it shal be perfyred . The way therfore to avoid these inconueniences , and to reform these deformities is this : Your wisedomes haue to remoue aduousons , patronages , impropriations , and bishops authoritie , claiming to themselues therby right to ordayne ministers , & to bryng in the old and true election , which was accustomed to be q q Act. 1. 26. 6. 2. 3. 14. 23. made by the congregation . You must displace those ignorant and vnable ministers already placed , & in theyr rowmes appoint such as both can and will by Gods assystauce feede the flock . You must plucke down & vtterly ouerthrow wythout hope of restitution , r r 1. Pet. 5. 2 the court of faculties , from whence not only licences to enioy many benefyces , are obtained , as Pluralities , Trialities , Totquote &c. but all things for the most part , as in the court of Rome are sette on sale , licences to marry , to eat flesh in tymes prohibited to lye from benefyces & chargrs , and a greate number besyde , of such lyke abhon●●●ations . Appoint to euery congregation a learned & diligent preacher . Remoue homylies , articles , iniunctions , & that prescripte order of seruice made out of the masse boke . Take away the Lordshyp , the loytering , the pompe , the idlenesse , and liuings of bishops , but yet employ them to such ends as they were in the old church appoynted for . Let a lawful and a godly seignorie loke that they preach , not quarterly or monthly , but contynually , not for fylthy luker sake , but of a ready mynde . So God shal be gloryfyed , your conscyences discharged , and the flocke of Chryst ( purchased s s Act. 20. 28. wyth hys owne bloud ) edyfyed .

Now to the second poynt , whych concerneth mynystratyon of Sacraments . In the olde tyme , the worde was t t Math. 3. 1 preached , before they were minystred : nowe it is supposed to be suffycyent , if it be red . Then , they were minystred in publike v v Mar. 1. 5 1. Cor. 11. 18 assemblies , now in priuate houses . Then w w Mat. 28. 19. 1. Corin. 4. 1. by ministers only , now by midwiues , and Deacons equally . But because in treating of both the sacraments together , we should deale confusedly : we wyll therefore speake of them seuerallye . And fyrst for the Lordes supper , or holy communion .

They had no introite , for Celestinus a pope brought it in , aboute the yeare . 430. But we haue borrowed a peece of one out of the masse booke . They read no fragments of the Epistle & Gospell : we vse both . ☞ ☞ Note , the we condemn not the doctrine conteined theriu . The Nicene Crede was not red in theyr Communion : we haue it in oures . There was then , accustomed to be an examination of the communicants , which now is neglected . Then they ministred the sacrament with common a a Actes . 2. 42. 46. Act. 20. 7. and usual bread : now with wafer cakes , brought in by Pope Alexander , being in forme , fashyon and substance , like theyr god of the altare . They receiued it c c Mat. 26. 20 Mar. 14. 18. Luk. 22. 14 Iohn . 13. 28. sitting : we kneeling , according to H●norius Decree . Then it was deliuered generally , & in definitely , Take ye e e mat. 26. 26. mark . 14. 22. 1. Cor. 11. 24. and eat ye : we perticulerly , and syngulerly , Take thou , and eate thou . They vsed no other wordes but such as Christe lefte : We borrowe from papistes , The body of our Lorde Iesus Chryst which was geuen for thee . &c. They had no Gloria in exceists , in the ministrerie of the Sacrament then , for it was put f f Telesphonis in Anno . 130. to afterward . We haue now . They toke it with conscience . We with 〈◊〉 . They shut men by reason of theyr g g 1 , Cor. 5. 11. sinnes , from the Lords Supper . We thrust them in theyr sinne to the Lordes Supper . They ministred the Sacrament plainely . We pompously , with singing , piping , surplesse and cepe wo●●ing . They simply as they h h 1. Cor. 11. 23. receiued it from the Lord. We sinfully , mixed with mannes inuentions and deuises . And as for baptisme , it was enough with them , if they i i Acts. 8. 35. 36. 37. Act. 10. 47. had wa●er , and the party to be baptised , faith , and the minister to preach the word , and minister the sacraments .

Nowe , we must haue surplesses deuised by Pope Adaien , interrogatories ministred to the infante , holy sorts inuented by Pope Pi●s , crossyng and suche like pee●es of Poperie , which the churche of God in the Apostles times neuer knew ( and therfore not to be vsed ) nay ( which we are sure of ) were and are mannes deuises , brought in long after the puritie of the primatiue church . To redresse these , youre wisedomes haue to remoue ( as before ) ignorant ministers , to take away priuate communions and baptismes , to enioyne Deacons and Midwiues not to meddle in ministers matters , if they do , to see them sharply punished To ioyne assystance of Elders , and other offycers , that seeing men will not examine themselues , they may be examined , and brought to n n 1. Co. 11. 28. 1. Pet. 3. 15. render a reason of theyr hope . That the statute againste waffer cakes may more preuaile then an Iniunction . That people be apointed to receaue the Sacrament , rather ●●tting , for auoiding of superstition , than kneeling , hauing in it the outwarde shewe of euil , from o o 1. Thes. 5. 22 which we must abstaine . That Exco●●●●cation he restored to his olde former force . That papists nor other , neither constrainedly nor cus●●●ably , communicate in the misteries of saluation . That both the Sacrament of the Lordes supper and Baptisme also , may be ministred according to the ancient puritie & simplicitie . That the parties to be baptised , if they be of the yeares p p Mat. 3. 6. of discretion , by them selues & in theyr owne persons , or if they be infantes , by their parentes ( in whose rowme if vpon necessarye occas●ons and businesses they be absent , some of the congregation knowing the good behauior and sounde faith of the parents ) may both make rehearsal of their faith , And also if their faith be sound , and agreable to holy scriptures , desire to be in the same baptised . And finally , that nothing be don in this or any other thing , but that which you haue the expresse warrant of gods worde for .

Let vs come now to the third parte , which concerneth ecclesiastical discipline . The officers that haue to deale in this charge , are chiefly three , ministers , preachers , or pastors of whom before . Seniors or elders , and Deacons . Concerning Seniors , not onely theyr office but their name also is out of this english church vtterly remoued . Theyr offyce was to q q Act. 15. 4. 1. Cor. 12. 28. gouerne the church with the rest of the ministers , to consult , to admonyshe , to correct , and to order all thyngs appertaynyng to the state of the congregatyon . In frede of these Segnyors in r r Rom. 12. 8. euery church , the pope hath brought in and we yet mayntayne , the Lordshyp of one men ouer many churches , yea ouer sondry Shyeres . These Seygnyors then , dyd execute theyr offyces in theyr owne persones wythout substytutes . Oure Lord Byshoppes haue theyr vnder offycers , as Suffraganes , Chancelors , Archdeacons , Offycyals , Commissaries , and such lyke . Touchyng Deacons , though theyr names be remainyng , yet is the offyce sowly peruerted and turned vpsyde downe , for theyr duty in the primatiue church , was to s s Rom. 12. 8. gather the almes dilygently , and to dystrybute it faythfully , also for the sycke and impotent persones to prouyde paynefully , hauyng euer a dylygent care , that the charitie of godly men , were not wasted vpon l●yterers t t 2. Thes. 3. 10. and idle vagabonds . Now it is the fyrst step to the ministerie , nay , rather a mere order of priesthede . For they v v Pontifi . tit. The orderring of deacons . may baptise in the presence of a bishop or priest , or in theyr absence ( if necessity so requyre ) minister the other Sacrament , likewise read the holy Scriptures and Homilies in the congregation , i●struce the youthe in the Cathechisme , and also preache , if he be commaunded by the bishop . Againe , in the olde churche , euerye w w Philip. 1. 1. Iohn . 13. 27. Act. 6. 5. 1. Tim. 3. 8. congregation had theyr Deacons . Now they are ●yed to Cathedrall churches onely , and what doe they there ? gather the almes and distribute to the pore : nay , that is the least peece or rather no parte of theyr function . What then ? to sing a gospell when the Bishoppe minystreth the Communion . If thys be not a peruerting of thys offyce and charge , let euery one iudge . And yet least the reformers of our time should seeme vtterly to take out of Gods Churche thys necessarye function , they appointe somewhat to it concernyng the poore , and that is , to searche for the sicke , needy , and impotent people of the parish , and to intimate theyr estates , names , and places where they dwell to the Curate , that by hys exhortation they may be relieued by the parishe , or other conuenient almes . And this as you see , is the nighest parte of his offyce , and yet you must vnderstand it to be in suche places where there is a Curate and a Deacon : euery parish can not be at that cost to haue bothe , nay , no parishe so farre as can be gathered , at this present hath . Now then , if you will restore the church to his ancient offycers , this you must do . In stead of an Archbishop or Lord bishop , you must make x x 2. Cor. 10. 7 Coloss. 1. 1. Philip. 1. 1. 1. Thes. 1. 1. equalitie of ministers . In freade of Chancelors , Archdeacons , Offycialles , Commissaries , Proctors , Summoners , church wardens , and such like : You haue to pl●t in euery congregation a lawfull and godly seignorie . The Deaconsh●p y y 1. Tim. 3. 8. must not be confounded with the ministerie , nor the Collectors for the poore , maye not vsur●e the Deacons offyce : But he that hath an z z Rom. 12. 7 1. Cor. 7. 20. offyce , muste lo●ke to his offyce , and euery man muste kepe himselfe within the bounds and limmites of his owne vocation . And to these three ●oyntly , that is , the Ministers , Seniors , and deacons , is the whole regiment of the churche to be committed . This regiment consisteth especially in eccles●●stical discipline , which is an order left by God vnto his church , wherby men learne to frame their willes and doings according to the law of God , 〈…〉 instructing & admonishing one another , Iam. 5. 16 Mat. 18. 15 yea and by correcting and punishing all wilfull persones , and con●●●s of the same . Of this discipline there is 〈◊〉 kindes , one priuate , wherewith we will not 〈◊〉 because it is impertinent to our purpose , an other publique , which although it hathe bene long banished , yet if it might nowe at the length be restored , would be very necessary and profytable for the building vp of Gods house . The final end of this discipline , is the reframing of the disordered , & to bring them to repentance , and ●o bridle such as wold offend . The cheefest parte and laste punishment of this discipline is excommunication , by the consent of the church determined , if the offender be obstinate , which howe miserably it hath ben by the Popes proctours , and is by our new Canonists abused , who seeth not ? In the primatiue church it was in b b 1. Cor. 5. 4. many mennes handes : now one alone excommunicateth . In those days it was the last censure of the church , and neuer went forth but for c c 1. Cor. 5. 11. 2. Thes. 3. 14 notorious crimes : Now it is pronounced for euery light trifie . Then excommunication was greatlye regarded and feared . Now because it is a mony matter , no whit at all esteemed . Then for d d 1. Tim. 1. 20. 1. Corin. 5. great sinnes , seuere punishment , and for smal offences , censures according . Now great sinnes either not at all punished , as e e Leui. 24. 14. 16. Num. 15. 34. &c. blasphemy f f Deutro. 23. 19. 20. vs●●y , drunkennesse . &c , or else sleightly passed ouer with pricking in a blanket , or pinning in a sheet , as g g Leu. 20. 10. De● . 22. 22. adultery , whoredom , &c. Againe , suche as are no sinnes ( as if a man conforme not himself to popish orders and ceremonies , if he come not at the wh●stle of him , who hathe by Gods worde no authoritie to call , we meane Chancelors , Offycials , and all that r●●le ) are greeuously punished , not only by excommunication , suspention , depriuation and other ( as the● terme if ) spiritual coertion , but also by banishing , imprisoning , reuilings , taunting , 〈◊〉 what not ? Then the sentence was tempered according h h 1. Tim. 1. 20. to the notoriousnesse of the facte . Now on the one side either hatred against some persones , caryeth men headlong into rashe and cruell iudgement : or else fauoure , affection , or money , mitigateth the rigoure of the same , and al this cometh to passe , because the regiment lefte of Chryst i i Mat. 18. 17 1. Cor. 12. 28 Rom. 12. 8. 1. Tim. 5. 17. Actes . 15. 2. 4. 6. 22. 23. to his churche , is committed into one mannes h●eeds , whome alone it shall be more easie for the wicked by bribing to peruert , than to ouerthrow the faith and pietie of zealous and godly company , for suche manner of men in deede k k Exo. 18. 21. Deut. 1. 13. should the Seigniors be . Then it was said tell l l Mat. 18. 17. the church : now it is spoken , complaine to my Lords grace , primate & Metropolitane of al England , or to his inferioure , my Lord Bishop of the diocesse , if not to him , shew the Chancelor or Offyciall , or Commissarie . Againe , whereas the excommunicate were neuer receaued till they had m m 2. Cor. 2. 7. publikely confessed their offence . Now for paying the fees of the courte , they shall by maister Offyciall , or Chancelour , easely be absolued in some priuate place . Then the congregation , by the wickednes of the offendour grieued , was by his publique penance satisfied . Now absolution shall be pronounced , though that be not accomplished . Then the partie offending shoulde in his owne person , heare the sentence of Absolution pronounced . Now , Bishops , Archdeacons , Chancelors , Offycials , Commissaries and suche like , absolue one man for another . And this is that order of ecclesiastical discipline which all godly wish to be restored , to the end that euery one by the same , may be kept wythin the limmits of his n n 1. Cor. 7. 20 vocation , and a great number be brought to line in godly conuersation . Not that we meane to take away the authoritie of the ciuill o o Rom. 13. Magistrate and chefe gouernoure , to whom we wish all vlessednes , and for the encrease of whose godlines we dayly p p 1. Tim. 2. 2. pray : but that Chryste being restored into his kingdome , to rule in the same by the scepter of his word , & seuere discipline : the Prince may be better obeyed , the realme more florishe in godlinesse , and the Lord himself more sincerely & purely according to his reuealed will serued , then heeretofore he hath bene , or yet at this present is . Amend therfore these horrible abuses , and reforme Gods church , and the q q Psal. 16. 8. Lord is on your right hand , you shall not be remoued foreuer . For he wil deliuer and defend you from all your enemies , either at home or abrode , as he did faithfull Iacob r r Gen. 35. 5. & good s s 2. chro. 17. 10 Iehosaphat . Let these things alone , and God is a righteous iudge , he wil one day cal you to your reckening . Is a reformation good for France ? and can it be euill for Englande ? Is discipline meete for Scotland ? and is it vnprofytable for this realme ? Surely God hath set these examples before your eies to encourage you to go forward to a thorow & a spedy reformation . You may not do as heretofore you haue done , patch and peece , nay rather goe backeward , and neuer labor or ( t ) contend to perfection . But altogether remoue whole Antichriste , bothe head and tayle , and perfectly plant that puritie of the word , that simplicitie of the sacraments , and seueritie of discipline , which Chryste hathe commaunded , and commended to hys churche . And heere to ende , we desire all to suppose that we haue not attempted thys enterprise for vaine-glory , gayne , preferment , or any other worldly respect : neither yet indgyng our selues , so exactly to haue sette out the state of a church reformed , as that nothing more coulde be added , or a more perfecte forme and order drawne : for that were greate presumption , to arregate so muche vnto oure selues , seeing that as we are but weake and simple soules , so God hath raised vp men of profounde iudgement and notable learning . But thereby to declare oure good willes towardes the setting forth of Gods glory , and the buylding vp of hys church , accoumptyng thys as it were , but an entrance into further matter , Philip. 1. 6 hopyng that our God , who hathe in vs begon thys good woorke , will nor onely in tyme heereafter makers strong and able to goe forwarde therin : but also moue other , vpon whome he hathe bestowed greater measure of hys gyftes and graces , to labor more thorowly and fully in the same .

The God of all glory so open youre eyes to see hys truth , that you may not onely be inflamed with a loue thereof , but wyth a continuall care seeke to promote , plant , and place the same amongst vs , that we the Enlish people , and oure posteritie , enioying the sinceritie of Gods gospel for euer , may say alwayes : The Lord be praysed . To whome with Chryst Iesus his sonne our onely sauiour , & the Holy ghost our alone comfortor , be honor , praise , and glory , for euer and euer . Amen .

☞ FINIS .
A view of Popishe abuses yet remayning in the Englishe Church , for the which Godly Ministers haue refused to subscribe . Abide paciently the Lordes leasure . Caste thy care vpon the Lord , and he wil bring it to passe , he will do it . The ieopardous time is at hand , that the wrath of God shall be declared from heauen vppon all vngodlynesse of those seducers that wtholde the truth in vnrighteousnesse , and set his commaundements at naught , for theyr owne traditions .

WHereas immediatly after the laste Parliament , holden at Westminster , begon in Anno. 1570. and ended in Anno. 1571. the ministers of gods holy word and sacraments , were called before her maiesties hygh commissyoners , and enforced to subscribe vnto the Articles , if they would kepe theyr places and liuyngs , and some for refusyng to subscribe , were vnbrotherly and vncharitably intreated , and from theyr offyces and places remoued : May it please therefore thys honorable and high court of Parliament , in consyderation of the premisses , to take a view of such causes , as then dyd wythhold , and now doth the foresayd ministers from subscribing and consenting vnto those forsaid articles , by way of purgation to discharge themselues of all disobedience towards the church of God and theyr soueraigne , and by way of most humble intreatie , for the remouing away and vtter abolishing of all suche corruptions and abuses as withhelde them , throughe which thys long time brethren haue bene at vnnaturall warre and strise among themselues , to the hinderance of the gospel , to the ioy of the wycked , and to the grefe and dismay of all those that professe Christes religion , & labor to attain Christian reformation .

The fyrst Article .

First , that the booke commonly called the booke of common prarers for the church of England , aucthorised by Parliament , and all & euery the contents therin be such as are not repugnant to the worde of God.

Albe●t , righte honorable & dearly beloued , we haue at all times borne with that , which we could not amende in this boke , and haue vsed the same in our ministerie , so farre sorth as we might : reuerencing those times & those persons , in which and by whom it was first authorised , being studious of peace , and of the building vp of Christes churche , yet nowe being compelled by subscription to allowe the same , & to confesse it , not to be against the word of God in any poynt but tollerable : We must nedes say as foloweth , that this boke is an vnperfect boke , culled & picked out of that popishe dunghil , the Portuise and Masse boke ful of all abhominations . For s●me , & many of the contentes therin , be suche as are againste the worde of God , as by his grace shal be proued vnto you . And by the way , we cannot but much maruel at the crafty wilines of those men whose partes had bene fyrst to haue proued eche and euery content therin , to be agreable to the word of god , seing that they enforce men by subscription to consent vnto it , or els send them packing from theyr callings .

1 They shuld fyrst proue by the word , that a reading seruice going before , and with the administration of the sacraments , is according to the word of God , that priuate Communion , priuate baptisme , baptisme ministred by women , holydayes ascribed to saincts , prescript seruices for them , kneeling at communion , wafer cakes for theyr breade when they minister it , surplesse and coape to do it in : churching of women , comming in vailes , which is not commaunded by lawe , but yet the abuse is great , by reson that superstition is grown therby in the hartes of many , and others are iudged the vse it not , Psalm . 121. abusing the Psalme to her , I haue lifted vp mine eyes vnto the hilles , &c. and suche other fool she things , are agreable to the wrytten word of the almighty . But theyr craft is plain . Wherin they deceiue them selues , standing so much vpon thys word repugnant , as thoughe nothyng were repugnant ; or agaynste the word of God , but that whych is expresly forbidden by plain commaundement , they knowe wel inoughe and wold confesse , if eyther they were not blinded , or else theyr harts hardned , that in the circumstances eche content wherewith we iustly fynde faulte , & they too contentiously for the loue of theyr liuings maintain , sinelling of their old popish priesthode , is against the worde of God. For besides that this prescript forme of seruice as they call it , is full of corruptions , it maintayneth an vnlawfull ministerye , vnable to execute that offyce .

By the word of God , it is an offyce of preachyng , they make it an offyce of reading : Christe sayde a a Mat. 28. 1● . Mar. 16. 15 goe preache , they in mockery giue them the Bible , and authoritie to preache , and yet suffer them not , except that they haue new licences . So that they make the chefest part which is preching , but an accessory that is as a thing without which theyr offyce may and doth consist . In the scriptures there is attributed vnto the ministers of God , the knowledge of the b b 1. Cor. 4. 1 heauenly mysteries , & therfore as the greatest toke of theyr loue , they are eni●yned to c c Ioh. 21. 16. 17 fede Gods Lambes , and yet with these , suche are admitted and accepted , as only are bare readers that are able to say seruice , and minister a Sacrament according to theyr appoyntment . And that thys is not the feeding that Chryste spake of , the scriptures are plain . d d For reding ministers , viewe these places . Mala. 2. 7 Esay . 56. 10 Zach. 11. 15 Mar. 15. 14 1. Tim. 3. 6 For bare reading of the word and single seruice saying , is bare-feeding , yea it is as euil as playing vpon a stage , & worse too . For players yet learne theyr partes wythout boke , and these , a many of them can scarsely read within boke . These are emptie feeders , e e Math. 6. 22 darke eyes , f f Math. 9. 18 Philip. 3 ill workemen to hasten in the Lords haruest g g Luk. 14. 17 messengers that cannot call h h math. 23. 34 Prophets that cannot declare the wil of the Lord , i i Math 5. 13 vnsauery salte , k k Math. 15. 14 blinde guides , l l Esay . 56. 10 sleepie watchmen m m 1. Cor. 4. 1. Luk. 16 1. &c vntrustie dispensers of Gods secretes , n n 2. Tim. 2. 15. euill deuiders of the worde , o o Tit. 1. 9. weake to withstand the aduersary , p p 2. Ti. 3. 15. 16 not able to confute , m 1. Cor. 4. 1. Luk. 16 1. &c and to conclude , so farre from makyng the man of God perfect to all good works , that rather the quite contrary may be confyrmed .

By this booke , bare reading is q q 1. Cor. 3. 9 good tilling , and single seruice saying , is excellent r r 1. Cor. 3. 9. building , and he is sheapheard good inough , that can as popishe priestes coulde , oute of theyr Portuise , say fairely theyr diuine seruice . Nay , some in the fulnesse of their blasphemie haue sayde that much preaching bryngeth the woorde of god into contempt , and that fower preachers were inoughe for all London , so farre are they from thinking it necessary , and seeking that euery congregation should haue a faithfull pastor . Paule was not so wise as these politique men . When he sayde , we s s Rom. 10. 14 can not beleeue except we heare , and we can not heare wythout a preacher . &c , seing we may heare by reading , and so beleeue without a preacher . Folishly he spake , when he saide he t t 1. Tim. 3. 2 must be apt to teache , sith euery man of the basest sort of the people is admitted to thys function of such as v v 2. Chro. 13. 9 Ieroboam did sometimes make hys priestes . We wil say nomore in this matter , but desire you to consider with vs what small profyt and edifycation this seely reading hath broughte to vs these . 13. yeres paste ( except perhaps by some circumcelion or newe Apostle , we haue had now & then a fleeing sermon ) surely our synnes are growne ripe , our ignorance is equal wyth the ignorance w w Esai . 24. 2. 5 of our leaders , we are lost x x Zach. 11. 15. 16. 17. &c. they cannot fynde vs , we are sicke , they can not heale vs , we are hongry , they cannot feede vs , except they leade vs by other mennes lights , and heale vs by saying a prescript forme of seruice , or else fede vs with homilies , that are too homely , to be set in the place of Gods scriptures : ☞ are not the people wel nodifyed thinke you , when the homily of sweping the church is red vnto them ? ☞ But drunken they are , and shewe theyr owne shame , that striue so egarly to defend their doyngs , that they wyll not only not acknowledge their imperfections : but wyll enforce other men to allowe them .

2 In thys booke also , it is appointed that after the Creede , if there be no sermon , an homilie must folowe eyther already set out , or hereafter to be set oute . Thys is scarse plaine dealing , Homilies . that they wold haue vs consent vnto that which we neuer sawe , and which is to be set out hereafter , we hauing had such cause already to distrust them , by that which is already set out , being corrupt and straunge , to maintain an vnlearned and reading minysterie : and syth it is playne that mennes woorkes oughte to be kept in , and nothing else but the voyce , of God and holy Scriptures , in which only are contained y y 2. ti. 3. 16. 17. 2. Pet. 1. 19. 20. 21. Rom. 1. 16. 1. Cor. 1. 18. & all fulnesse and suffyciencie to decide controuersies , must sound in his church , for the very name Apocrypha testifieth that they were red in secrete and not openly .

3 In thys booke , dayes are ascribed vnto Saintes , and kept holy with fastes on theyr euenes , & prescript seruice appointed for them , which beside that , they are of manye superstitiously kepte and obserued , are also contrary to the commaundement z z Exod. 20. 9 Exo. 23. 12 Deut. 5. 13. Esay . 1. 10. 13. 14. Leui. 23. 3. 2. Esra . 1. 13 Rom. 16. 6 Gal. 4. 10. 11 of God. Sixe dayes shalt thou laboure , and therefore we for the superstition that is put in them , dare not subscribe to allowe them .

4 In thys booke we are enioyned to receaue the Communion kneeling , a a Mat. 26. 20 Mar. 4. 1●1 Luk. 22. 14. Iohn . 13. 28. which beside that it hath in it a & & 1. Thes. 5. 22 Exod. 12. 11 shew of popish idolatry , dothe not so well expresse a supper , neyther agreeth it so well wyth the institution of Chryste , as sitting dothe . Not that we make sitting a thing of necessytie belonging vnto the Sacrament , b b Gala. 4. 10 Galath. 5. 3. 4. 5. Hebrewes in manye places . neyther affyrme we that it may not be receyued other wyse , but that it is more neare the Institution , and also a meane to auoide the daunger of Idolatry , whiche was in tymes past too common , and yet is in the hearts of many , who haue not forgotten their bread god , so slenderly haue they bene instructed ? Agaynst which we may set the commaundement . Thou c c Exo. 20. 5 Halfe Communion . shalt not bow downe to it , nor worshyp it .

5 As for the halfe Communion , whych is yet appoynted like to the commemoration of the Masse , we say little of it , sauing that we may note , how neare the translator bounde himselfe to the Masse booke , that wold not omit it . We speake not of the name of priest wherwith he defaceth the minister of Christ ( bicause the priest that translated it , would perhaps fayne haue the ministers of Christ to be ioyned with him ) seeing the offyce of Priesthode is ended , Christ being the last priest that euer was . To call vs therefore priestes as touching oure offyce , is eyther to call backe agayne the old priesthode of the law , which is to deny Chryst to be come , or else to keepe a memory of the popish priesthode of abhomination stil amongst vs . As for the fyrst , it is by d d Heb. 5. 1. 6 Hebr. 9. 11 Christ abolished , and for the second it is of Antichrist , & therfore we haue nothing to doe with it . Such ought to haue e e Eech . 44. 10. 12. 13 ●erem ● . 23 Hebr. 5. 4. no place in our church , neither are they ministers of Christ , sent to preach his gospel , but priests of the Pope to sacrifyse for the quick & the dead , that is to creade vnder theyr feete the bloude of Christ . Suche ought not to haue place amongst vs , as the scriptures manifestly teache . Besides that we neuer read in the newe Testament , that this word priest as touching offyce , is vsed in the good parte , except it speake of the Leuiticall priesthode , or of the priesthode of Chryste .

6 Sixthly , in this boke three or foure are allowed for a fyfte number to receiue the communion , and the priest alone together wyth one more , or wyth the sicke man alone , may in tyme of necessytie , that is , when there is any common plague , or in time of other visytation , minister it to the sicke man , and if he require it , it may not be denyed . This is not I am sure like in effect to a priuate masse : that scripture f f 〈…〉 drinke ye all of thys , maketh not againste this , and priuate communion , is not agaynst the scriptures .

7 And as for priuate baptisme , that wil abide the touchstone . g g Mat. 28. 19 Goe ye ( sayth Christe and teache , baptising them . &c. Now teaching is deuorsed from communions and sacraments . They may goe alone without doctrine . Women that may h h 1. Cor. 14. 24 1. Tim. 2. 11 not speake in a congregation , may yet in tyme of necessytie , minister the sacrament of baptisme , and that in a priuate house . And yet , thys is not to tie necissitie of saluation to the Sacraments , nor to nowsell men vp in that opinion . This is agreable with the scriptures , & therfore when they bring the bapti●ed childe , they are receiued with this special commendation . I certefye you , that you haue don wel , and according vnto due order . &c. But now we speake in good earnest , when they answer this : Let them tell vs , howe thys geare agreeth wyth the scriptures , and whether it be not repugnant or agaynst the worde of God ? But some will say that the baptisme of women is not commaunded by law . If it be not , why doe you suffer it , and wherfore are the children so baptised accordingly ? common experience teacheth that it is vsed almost in all places , and fewe speake agaynst it . And thys I am sure of , that when it was put in the booke that was the meaning of the most part that were then present , and so it was to be vnderstande as common practise without controlment doth plainly declare .

8 The publique baptisme , that also is full of childishe & superstitious toyes . First in theyr prayer they say that God by the baptisme of his sonne Iesus Christ , did sanctify the floud Iordan , and all other waters , to the mysticall washing away of synne , attributing that to the signe whych is i i 1. Iohn . 1. 7 Act. 20. 28. Rom. 3. 24 propre to the● worke of God in the bloud of Christe , as though vertue were in water , to washe away sinnes . Secondly , they require a promisse of the godfathers and godmothers ( as they term them ( whych is not k k Rom. 7. 15. 18. 21. Rom. 9. 16. in theyr powers to perform . Thirdly , they prophane holy baptisme , in toying foolishly , for that they aske questions of an infante , whych can not answere , and speake vnto them , as was wont to be spoken vnto men , and vnto suche as being conuerted , answered for themselues , & were baptized . Which is but a mockery l l Gala. 6. 7 of God , and therefore agaynst the holy scriptures . Fourthly , they do superstitiously and wickedly institute a new sacrament , which is proper to Christ only , marking the childe in the forhead with a crosse , in token that heereafter he shall not be ashamed to confesse the fayth of Christe . We haue made mention before of that wycked deuorse of the worde and sacramentes . We say nothing of those that are admitted to be witnesses , what ill choyse there is made of them , how conuenyent it were , seing the children of the faythfull onely are to be baptized , that the father should and might , if conueniently , offer & present his child to be baptized , making an open confession of that faith , wherin he wold haue his childe baptized , as is vsed in well reformed churches .

9 As for Matrimonie , that also hathe corruptions too many . It was wonte to be compted a sacrament , and therfore they vse yet a sacramental signe , to which they attribute the vertue of wedlocke . I meane the wedding ring , which they fowly abuse and dally with all , in taking it vp , and laying it downe : In putting it on , they abuse the name of the Trinitie , they make the newe marryed man , according to the Popish forme , to make an idol of his wife , saying : with this ring I thee wedde , with my body I thee worshippe . &c. And bicause in Poperie , no holy action mighte be done without a masse , they enioyne the marryed persones to receiue the communion ( as they do theyr bishoppes and priestes when they are made . &c. ) other p●rtie things oute of the booke , we speake not of , as that * * Abuses accidental . women contrary m m 1. Cor. 11. 5 to the rule of the Apostle , come , and are suffered to come bare headed , with bagpipes and ●idlers before them , to disturbe the congregation , and that they must come in at the great dore of the church , or else all is ●arred . With diuers other heathnish toys in sondry countries , as carying of whea●e sheaffes on theyr heads , and ca●●ing of corne , with a number of such like , wherby they make rather a Maie game of marryage , then a holy Institution of God.

10 As for confyrmation , which the papists and our m● say was in times past Apostolical , grounding their opinion perhaps vpon some dreame of Hierome , yet as they vse it by the bishop alone , to them that lack both discretion and faithe , it is superstitious & not agreable to the word of God , but popish & peuishe . As though baptim were not already perfect , but neded confyrmation , or as though the bishop coulde giue the holy ghost . 〈◊〉 They appoynt a prescript find of seruice to bury the dead : And that which is the duety of euery christian , they tie alone to the minister , wherby pr●ier for the dead is maintained , and partly gathered out of some of the prarers , where they pray that we with thys our brother , & all other departed in the true faith of thy holy name , may haue our perfect cons●●●●ation and blisse , bothe in body & soule . We say nothing of the threefold peale bicause that it is rather licensed by iniunction , then commaunded in theyr boke , nor of theyr straunge mourning by chaunging theyr garmentes , which if it be not hipocritical , yet it is superstitious & heathnish , bicause it is vsed only of custom , nor of burial sermons , which are put in place of trentalles , wherout spring many abuses , and therfore in the best reformed churches , are remoued . As for the superstitions vsed bothe in countrey and citie , for the place of buryall , which way they must lie , how they must be fetched to churche , the mynister meeting them at churche stile with surplesse , with a companye of greedie clarkes , that a crosse whyte or blacke , must be set vpon the deade corpes , that breade muste be gyuen to the poore , and offrings in Buryall tyme vsed , and cakes sent abrode to frendes , by cause these are rather vsed of custome and superstition , then by the authoritie of the boke . Small commaundement will serue for the accomplishyng of suche things . But great charge will hardly bryng the least good thyng to passe , and therefore all is let alone , and the people as blinde and as ignorante as euer they were . God be mercyfull vnto vs , and open our eyes that we may see what that good and acceptable will of God is , and be more earnest to prouoke hys glory .

12 Churching of women after childbirthe , smelleth of Iewish purifycation : theyr other rytes & customes in theyr lying in , & comming to churche , is foolishe and superstitious , as it is vsed . Shee muste lie in wyth a white sheete vppon her bed , and come couered wyth a vaile , as ashamed of some folly . Shee must offer , but these are matters of custome , and not in the boke : But thys Psalme ( as is noted before ) is childishly abused , o o Psalm . 121 I haue lift vp mine eyes vnto the ly●ls , ●rom whence commeth my helpe . The sunne shall not burne th●e by day , nor the moone by nyght .

13 In all theyr order or seruice p p 1. Cor. 14. 16 there is no edification , according to the rule of the Apostle , but confusion , they ●osse the Psalmes in most places like ●ennice balles . They pray that al men may be saued , & that they may be deliuered from thundering & tempest , when no danger is nigh . That they sing Benedictus , Nunc dimittis and Magnificat , we knowe not to what purpose , except some of them were ready to die , or excepte they would celebrate the ine●ory of the virgine , and Iohn Baptist . &c. Thus they prophane the holy scriptures . The people some standing , some walking , some talking , some reading , some praying by themselues , ●●tend not to the minyster . He againe posteth it ouer , as fast as he can galloppe . For eyther he hath two places to serue , or else there are some * * Games of Sodom . games to be playde in the afternoone , as lying for the whetstone , heathnishe dauncing for the ring , a beare or a bull to be baited , or else Iacke an apes to ride on horssebacke , Standing at the gospel came ●rom Anastatius the pope , in An. 404. or an enterlude to be plaide , & if no place else can be gotten , this enterlude must be playde in the church ▪ &c. Nowe the people sit and now they stand vp . When the old Testament is read , or the lessons , they make no reuerence , but when the gospel commeth , then they * al stand vp . For why , they thinke that to be of greatest authoritie , and are ignorante that the scriptures came from one spirite . When Iesus is named , then of goeth the cap , and downe goeth the knees , wyth suche a scraping on the ground , that they cannot heare a good while after , so that the word is hindred , but when any other names of God are mentioned , they make no curtesie at all , as though the names of God were not equal , or as though all reuerence oughte to be giuen to the syllables . We speake not of ringing , when Mattens is done , and * * Accidental abuses . other abuses incident . Bicause we shal be answered , that by the boke they are not maintayned , only we desire to haue a booke to reforme it . As for organes and curious singing , thoughe they be proper to Popyshe dennes , I meane to Cathedrall churches , yet some others also must haue them . The Queenes chappell , and these churches , ( whych shoulde be spectacles of christia●… reformation ) are rather paternes and presidents to the people , of all superstitions .

14 Their pontificall ( which is annexed to the boke of common prayer , and whereunto subscribing to the Articles , we must subscribe also ) whereby they consecrate Bishops , make ministers & deacons , is nothing else but a thing woorde for woorde drawne out of the Popes pontifycal , wherin he sheweth himselfe to be Antichrist most liuely . And q q lit. 22. 25. 26 1. pe. 5. 3. 4. 5 Math. 20. 25. 26. Mat. 23. 8. 11. 12. Gala. 2. 6 Heb. 5. 4. Luk. 16. 25 Ezech. 34. 4. 2. Cor. 1. 24. as the names of Archbishops , Archdeacons ▪ Lord bishops , Chancelers . &c. are drawne out of the Popes shop togither with theyr officers . So the gouernement which they vse , by the life of the Pope which is the Canon law is Antichristian & deuillish , and contrary to the scriptures . And as safely may we , by the warrant of Gods worde subscribe to allow the dominion of the Pope vniuersally to raigne ouer the church of God , as of an archbishop ouer an whole prouince , or a Lorde bishop ouer a diocesse , which containeth many shyres and parishes For the dominion that they exercise the archbyshop aboue them , & they aboue the rest of theyr brethren , is vnlawfull , and expresly forbidden by the word of God.

15 Againe , in that they are honoured with the r r Math. 23. 8. &c. Ioh. 13 15 16 Iohn . 5. 44. 2. Cor. 10. 16. 17. 18. titles of greate rulers , as Lord , Lords grace ▪ Metropolitane , primate of al England , honor . &c. it is against the worde of God.

Moreouer , in that they haue s s Lu. 9 60. 61 Luk. 12. 14 Rom. 12. 7 1. Tim. 6. 11. 2. Tim. 2. 3. 4 ciuill offyces , ioyned to the Ecclesiasticall , it is againste the woorde of God. As for an Archbishop to be a Lord president , a Lorde bishop , to be a countie Palatine , a Prelate of the garter , who hath much to do at S. Georges feast , when the Bible is caryed before the procession in the crosses place , a iustice of peace , or iustice of Quorum , an highe Commissioner . &c. and therefore they haue theyr prisonnes , * Bishops prisons , popish Eugenius the fyrst brynger of them in . as clinkes , gatehouses , colehouses , towers and castles , whych is also againste the scryptures . This is not to haue keyes but swordes , & plaine tokens they are , that they exercise that , whyche they woulde so faine seeme to want , I meane dominion ouer theyr brethren . ☞ And which of them haue not preached againste the Popes two swordes : Nowe whether they vse them not them selues ▪ mat 18. 17. 18 Act. 11. 30. Act. 15. 2. 4. 6. &c.

16 In that the Lorde Bishops , theyr suffraganes , Archdeacons , Chancelers , Officials , proctors , Doctors , sumners , and such rauening rablers , take vpon them , which is moste horrible , Rom 12. 7. 8 Philip. 1. 1. 1. Cor. 12. 28. 1. Th. 5. 12. 13 1. Tim. 4. 14 1. Tim. 5. 17. the rule of Gods Churche , spoyling the pastor ( t ) of his lawful iurisdiction ouer hys own flocke giuen by the word , thrusting away most sacrilegiously that order which Christ hath left to hys church , & which the primatiue churche hath vsed , they shewe they holde the doctrine with vs , but in vnrighteousnesse , with an outward shewe of godlynesse , but hauing denyed the power therof , entring not v v Iohn . 10. 1. in by Christ , but by a popishe and vnlawfull vocation . We speake not w w Act. 6. 3. 4. Act. 14. 23 Actes . 20. 28. 30. &c. Ro. 12. 6. 7. 8 1. co. 9. 16. 17 howe they make Ministers by themselues alone , and of theyr sole authoritie , and that in secrete places , of theyr election and probation , that it is of him , to whom by no right it belongeth . And that when they haue made them , either they may tariye in theyr Colledge , and leade the liues of loytering losels , as long as they liue , or else gad abrode with the bishops bulles like to Circumcelions , to preache in other mens charges where they li●t , or else get benefices by frendship or mony , or flattery where they can catch them , or to conclude : If all these faile , that they may go vp and down like beggers , & fall to many follies : or else as many haue don , set vp bils at Paules , or at the Royall exchange , & in such publike places , to see if they can hear of some good maisters , to entertain them into seruice . Surely , by the Canon law , by which the bishops raigne & rule , they ought to keepe those ministers , which they make as long as they haue no liuings and places . We know three or foure Bishops in this realm , wold haue kept such houses , as neuer none did in this land , if this rule had beene obserued . They clapt them out so fast by hundreds , and they make them pay wel for their orders , and surely to speake the truth they were worthy , for the Bishops ( what ods so euer there were of theyr gifts ) yet in theyr letters gaue them all a like commendation . They put on their surplesses , or else subscribed like honest men . Fie vpon these stinking abominations .

17 We should be too long to tell your honoures of Cathedrall churches , the dennes of or sayde of all loytering lubbers , wher master Deane , master Vicedeane , master Canons or Prebendaries the greater , master pettie Canons , or Canons the lesser , master Chanceller of the churche , master treasurer , otherwyse called Iudas the purssebearer , the cheese chauntor , singing men specyall fa●ourers of religion , squeaking queresters , organ players , gospellers , pi●telers , pentioners , readers , vergeries . &c. liue in great idlenesse , and haue theyr abiding . If you woulde knowe whence all these came , we can easely answere you , that they came from the Pope , as oute of the Troian horses bellye , to the destruction of Gods kingdome . The churche of God neuer knewe them , neither doth any reformed churche in the world know them .

18 And birdes of the same fether , are couetous patrones of benefices , persones , vicares , readers , parishe priests , stipendaries , and riding chaplaines , that vnder the aucthoritie of theyr maysters , spoyle theyr flockes of the foode of theyr soules . a a Philip. 2. 21 Suche seeke not the Lord Iesus , but theyr owne bellies b b Iude. 12. clouds they are without raine , trees without frute c c Mat. 23. 27. pa●●ted sepulchres full of dead bones , fatted in all aboundance of iniquitye , and leane locustes in all feeling , knowledge , and sinceritie .

19 What shoulde we speake of the Archbyshops court , To proue that the regiment of the church shoulde be spirituall , read Caluin in hys commentaries vpon these places . syth all men knowe it , and your wisedomes can not , but see what it is . As all other courts are subiecte to this , by the Popes prerogatiue , yea , and by statute of this realme yet vnrepealed , so is it the fylthy quauemire , and poysoned plashe of all the abhominations that doe infect the whole realme . We speake not of licenses graunted out of this courte , to marry in forbidden times , as in lent , in aduent , in the gang weke , when the priest in hys surplesse , singing gospels , & makyng crosses , rangeth about in many places vpon the Emberdayes , and to forbidden persons , Ephe. 11. 23. & in exempt places . We make no mention of lycences , 1. Thes. 5. 13. to eate whyte meat , 1. Tim. 5. 2. and flesh in Lent , & that wyth a safe conscience , for ryche men that can buy them wyth money , Heb. 10. 30. nor we say nothing how derely men pay for them . As for dispensations wyth benefyc●d boys , tollerations for non residents , bulles to haue two benefyces , to haue three , to haue more , and as many as they list or can get , these are so common , that all godly and good men are compelled wyth grefe of heart , to cry out vpon such abhominations . We omit excommunication for money , absolution for the same , and that by absoluing one man for another , which how contrary it is to the scriptures the complaints of many learned men by propositions in open scholes proposed , by wrytings in printed bokes set oute , and by preaching in open pulpits , haue beene suffyciently witnessed . To conclude , this fylthy courte hath full power together wyth the aucthoritie of thys pettie pope , Metropolitane and primate of all Englande , to dispense in all causes , wherein the pope was wont to dispence , vnder whych are contained more cases and causes , then we are able to recken . As for the Archbyshop of Yorke , we deale not with him . We referre him to that learned Epistle , which Beza wrote vnto hym about these matters .

20 And as for the commissaries court , that is but a pettie little srinking ditche , that floweth oute of that former great puddle , robbing Christes church of lawfull pastors , of watchfull Segniors and Elders , and carefull Deacons . 1. Cor. 5. 4. In thys court as in the other , * one alone doth excommunicate , one alone sitteth in iudgement , and when he will , can drawe backe the iudgement whych he hath pronounced , hauing called vpon the name of God , and that for money which is called the chaunging of penaunce . In this courte , for non paiment of two pence , a man shall be excommunicated if he appeare not when he is sent for , if he doe not as hys ordinarie would , from whome he had his popishe induction & institution , and to whom he hath sworne , Canonicam obedientiam , Canonicall obedience , if he learne not hys Catechisme like a good boye wythoute booke , when it were more meete he shoulde be able to teach others . To conclude : if he be not obedyent to all these Lord bishops officers , by and by he must be cut of by excommunication . And as it is lightly graunted and giuen forthe , so if the money be paide , and the court discharged , it is as quickly called in again . Thys courte poulleth parishes , scourgeth the poore hedge priestes , ladeth Churchwardens wyth manifest periuries , punysheth whoredomes and adulteryes wyth toyishe censures , remitteth without satisfying the congregation , and that in secrete places , giueth out dispensations for vnlawful mariages , and committeth a thousand such like abhominations . God deliuer al Christians out of this Antichristian tyrannye , where the iudges , aduocates , and proctors , for the most part are papists , and as for the scribes and notaries as greedy as cormorantes , and if they all should perhappes see this wryting , they wold be as angry as waspes , and sting like hornets . Three of them would be inowe to sting a man to death , for why they are highe commissioners . All this we say springeth out of this pontifical , which we muste allowe by subscription , setting downe oure hands , that it is not repugnant or against the word of god , we meane this antichristian hierarchie , and popishe ordering of ministers , strange from the word of god , and the vse of all wel reformed churches in the world .

21 We haue almost let passe one thing worthy the remembrance , It contayneth manifest blasphemie , as may appeare . which is , that they take vppon them blasphemously , hauing neither promise nor commaundement to say to theyr newe creatures , receaue the Holie ghost . As though the holy ghost were in their power to geue without warrant , at theyr owne pleasure .

And thus much be spoken as touching this booke , Ephes. 1. 17. against which to stand , is a wonder to two sortes of men , the one ignorant , the other obstinate . The Lorde geue those that be his , 2. Tim. 2. 7 vnderstanding in al things , that they may haue iudgement : 2. Cor. 4. 4 as for the other whome the god of this world hath blinded , least they f f Math. 13. 15 shuld see and confesse the truth and so be saued , and that doe in the full growth of wickednes , maliciously resist the truth . God confound them , that peace may be vpon Israell , and his sauing health vpon this nation . Amen .

The .2 . Article .

That the manner and order appointed by publique authoritie about the administration of the sacraments and common prayers , and that the apparell by sufficient authoritie appointed for the ministers wythin the church of England , be not wicked nor against the word of God , but tollerable , and being commaunded for order and obedience sake , are to be vsed .

For the order of administration of Sacramentes and common prayer , enough is said before , all the seruice and administration is tyed to a surplesse , in Cathedrall churches they must haue a coape , they receiue the Communion kneelyng , they vse not for the moste part common bread g g Act. 2. 46. according to the word of god , and the statute , Act. 20. 7 but starch bread accordyng to the Iniunction . They commonly minister the Sacramentes wythout preaching the worde .

And as for the apparell , Apparell . though we haue bene long borne in hande , and yet are , that it is for order and decencie commaunded , & yet we know and haue proued that there is neither order , nor cumlines , nor obedience in vsing it . There is no order in it , but confusion : No ●●mlines , but deformitie : No obedience , but disobedience , both against God and the Prince . We maruell that they could espie in their last Synode , that a gray Amise , which is but a garment of dignitie , shoulde be a garment ( as they say ) defyled with superstition , and yet that copes , caps , surplesses , tippe●s and suche lyke baggage , the preaching signes of popishe priesthode , the popes creatures , kept in the same forme to this end , to bryng dignitie and reuerence to the Ministers and Sacramentes , shoulde be retayned styll , and not abolyshed : But they are as the garments of the Idole , to which we should say , h Esai . 30. 22. 1. Thes. 5. 22. auant and get thee hence . They are as the garments of Balamites , of popishe priests , enemies to God and all Christians . They serue not to edifycation , they haue the shewe of euyll ( seeing the popish priesthode is euyll ) they worke discorde , they hinder the preaching of the Gospel , they kepe the memorie of Egipt still amongst vs , and put vs in minde of that abomination whervnto they in times past haue serued , they bryng the ministerie into contempte , they offend the weake , they encourage the obstinate . Therfore can no authoritie by the woord of God , with any pretence of order and obedience commaund them , nor make them in any wise tollerable , but by circumstances , they are wicked , and against the word of God.

If this be not playne enoughe by that whyche is already set forth , we mynde by Gods grace to make it playner , and should doe it better , if it were as lawfull for vs ( as for our aduersaryes ) to publish our mindes in Printe . Neyther is the controuersie betwixt them and ●s as they wold beare the world in hand , as for a cap , a tippet , or a surplesse , but for great matters concerning a true ministery and regiment of the churche , according to the word . Which things once established the other melt away of them selues . And yet consider I pray you , whether theyr owne argument dothe not choke them selues , for euen the verye name of trifles dothe plainly declare that they oughte not to be maintained in Christes church . And what shal our bishops win by it ? Forsothe , that they be maintainers of trifles , and trifling bishops , consuming the greatest part of theyr time in those trifles whereas they shoulde be better occupied . We striue for true religion & gouernment of the churche , and shewe you the righte way to throw out Antichrist both head and taile , and that we will not so much as communicate with the taile of the beast : but they after they haue thrust Antichriste out by the head , go about to pull him in again by the taile , cunningly colouring it , least any man should espie his foote steppes , as Cacus did when he stole the Oxen , For if it might please her maiesty , by the aduise of you righte Honourable , in thys hyghe Courte of Parliament to heare vs by wryting or otherwise , to defende our selues , then ( suche is the equitie of our cause ) that we would trust to fynde fauor in her maiesties sight : then should appeare what slender stuffe they bring to defend themselues , that are so impudent by open wryting to defend it : then those patched pamphlets made by suddaine vpstartes , and new conuerts , shoulde appeare in their cullours , and truth haue the victory , and God the glory . If this can not be obtayned , we wyll by Gods grace addresse our selues to defend his truth by suffring , and willingly lay our heads to the blocke , and thys shall be cure peace , to haue quiet consciences with our God , whome we wyl abyde for , with al pacience , vntill he worke our full deliuerance .

The .3 . Article .

That the articles of Religion which only concerne the true christian faith , and the doctrin of the Sacraments , comprised in a boke imprinted : Articles , wher vpon it was agreed by both Archbishops . &c. and euery of them containe me & godly christian doctrine .

For the Articles concerning the substance of doctrine vsing a godly interpretation in a point or two , Doctrine . which are either too sparely , The righte gouernment of the Church can not be seperated from the doctrine . or els too darkely set downe , we were & are ready according to dutie , to subscribe vnto them . We wold to god that as they hold the substance together with vs , and we with them : so they would not denye the effect and vertue thereof . Then shoulde not our w●rdes and works be deuorsed , but Christ shuld be suffred to raigne , a true ministerie according to the worde instituted , 1. Timot. 3. 2 Discipline exercised , Sacramentes purely and sincerely ministred . This is that we striue for , and aboute which we haue suffred k k 1. Pet. 3. 17. not as euill doers , but for resisting Poperie , and refusyng to be stong with the tayle of Antichristian in●ection , readie l l 1. Pet. 3. 15. to render a reason of oure faith , to the stopping of all our enemies mouthes . We therfore for the churche of Gods sake , which ought to be most dear vnto you , beseeche you for our Soueraignes sake , vpon whome we pray , that all Gods blessyngs may be powred aboundantly , we pray you to consyder of these abu●es to reform Gods church according to your duties and callynges , that as with one mouthe wee confesse one Christe , so with one consent , this raigne of Antichrist may be turned out headlong from amongest vs , and Christe our Lorde may raigne by his worde ouer vs . So your seates shal be esta●lished and setled in great assurance , you shall not neede to feare your ennemies : for God wyll turne away his threatned plagues from vs . Which he in mercie doe , for his Christes sake . Amen .

FINIS .
To the Christian Reader , health in the Lorde .

WE haue thoughte good , in this latter end of our booke , for sondry consyderations , to certify you ( beloued brethren ) of the reasons that haue moued vs , who are the authors of these treatises , to kepe back our names , and also to suppresse the name of the Printer of them , because peraduenture it may seeme strange otherwise , and also because we meane not by our example to alow such as might abuse you with leud matter vnder any such coulor . For we do vtterly mislike that ther is not in euery cuntry more straight loking to the Printers in the respect , because our time is much corrupted with ouer much license there in . Then thus it is , that in deede we are the least able among many , to speake of these matters : and therfore we wold not haue it seeme by setting to our names , that we toke vpon our selues singulerly to teach any thing that none other can doe , hath done , or doth , but we . And yet we wold wish , and in the name of the Almightie doe desire those that ha●e the greater giftes of God , shortly to make some larger discourse , then hetherto , eyther we or they haue , concerning these necessarie matters of Christes church . Againe , thoughe these matters haue ben resolued vpon already in al the best reformed churches : and also haue ben by sundry in this our country , in theyr sundrie lectures and sermons vrged : Yet hetherto they are not allowed such fauour , as to be with out perill any way propounded & set forth . And therfore , though we wil not refuse to put forth our selues to perils for suche causes , yet we feared it woulde the m●re exasperate and prouoke them that we deale wyth if we shoulde haue set to our names : besides that , we feared lest we shoulde not yet , haue done wel to haue betrayed our selues vnto them . And further , because we were & are content , not to be thought suche as willingly would come in trouble , and yet we woulde not leaue the vnvttered , which it is our duties to vtter , and which is many wayes commodious for the whole estate of this our country to be put in mynde of , hauyng respecte also to the presente Honorable assent of thys high court of Parliament . Moreouer because we could not haue had any that wold haue printed our bookes if they so lightly should haue ben brought in danger , our former reasons also seming to them to haue weight to the contrary . Furthermore , because without preuiledge also to haue sette too our handes , had not ben so much material , and it was not possible for vs to haue that , because the bishops haue the matter in theyr hands , & therfore haue hindred bookes which came nothing neare to displease them , lyke as these of oures : Although our bookes should not seeme to be against the Queenes proceedings , For shee seemeth none otherwyse , but that shee wolde haue Gods matters to proceede . And last of all , because if we fynd it profytable for the church to vtter our selues , we are ready so to do . For these seueral respects we say ; haue we yet hetherto forborne , & we trust that that which we haue sayd wil seeme reasonable to you . But would to God these matters wer reformed , and in the meane while , for as much as if we might without peril ( vntill we may be disproued ) set forth that which we shoulde learne out of the scriptures , submitting oure selues to the iudgement of the best churches , we thinke it were far better that we were suffred . And it is hard dealing , that we shoulde be abridged of suche lawfull libertie . For if they shall obiecte any inconuenience againste vs , it is none other but suche , as mighte stoppe the lawfull course of all good bookes : seeing there is none ledde with better reason to sette foorthe theyr bookes , than we are , and seeing far better men are stopped of theyr course by this inhibition . But we appeale to oure soueraigne , and the whole state , that we may not so vnequally be dealt with , that they which are parties ( we meane our bishoppes , and the rest of that sort ) should only be hearde , & be iudges in theyr owne cause too , & the 〈◊〉 of God stopped of the course in all others . At theyr handes we haue litle hope to fynde so much vprightnesse : for it is to be doubted , they wil Lu. 11. 52. kepe backe the key of knowledge , as they haue done , neyther entring in them selues , and yet ( as to this daye they do ) forbidding them that doe come in . God of his gracious goodnesse , blesse them that take this his cause into theyr handes , 2. Cor. 10. 4. 5 and so directe them in the vsing of his spirituall weapons , that they being mightie thorowe hym , to caste downe holdes , maye ouerthrowe the imaginations , and euerye high thing that is exalted againste the knowledge of God , and bring into bondage euerye thoughte , to the obedience of Christ , that he therby may be glorifyed , his church comforted and continued vnto eternall glory . Amen .

FINIS .

THere be some men perhappes will maruell , why we haue annexed the priuate letters of these learned and reuerende men to these Treatises , seeing that it may seeme some iniurie vnto them , for that their consent is not there vnto . And besides , not written so aduisedlye , as the publyshing in Print woulde require , whereout things may be drawne agaynste bothe parties , being written for stay of strife betwene bothe . But we trust that bothe the one & the other will beare with vs in this behalfe . Firste , bicause the godly Brethren haue beene often pressed with priuate letters , as not to be of the iudgement of the best learned , and that therfore we are singular , contentions , and so vnstayed , that we seeke we can not tel what . Againe , we haue for our example the reuerende Byshops , who to gette the better credite to theyr cause , haue shewed vs a president of imprinting some priuate letters , though we must needes say neyther in so good a cause , nor with halfe so muche equitie . And what thanke they had for so doing , as well D. Bullingers letter written to a Noble man in thys realme is witnesse , as also this of Maister Gualters which followeth . That whiche they did , was in defence of corruptions , and no small discredite to the Authors , that which we do is in defence of the truth , and to Gods glory , and no doubte to a singular commendacion of the wryters . Albeit we must nedes say th●● the truthe of thys cause craueth no credit , neither of theyr letters nor authoritie . For the scriptures are manifest , and the woorkes of these godly and learned men , I meane bothe of D. Bullingers , and M. Gualters , testifie howe farre of , they are from maintaining any of the forenamed filthy corruptions . We beseeche thee therefore gentle Reader to iudge the best of our doings : howsoeuer it fall out , this shall be our confort the testimonie of a good conscience , wherin we mind to rest , and to suffer willingly what so euer shal be laid vpon vs . These godly men I hope will not be offended with vs , seeing we doe it for the truthes sake , and to purge them from such a iudgement to defende corruptions as the Bishops by setting out theyr letters , would seme to charge them . As for the former admonition , if in the print they fynde many faults , let them remember it was done speedely , and as the extremitie would suffer . For the matter , if any thing be iustly reproued , it shall be amended , for the Treatise , if it be thought too short , it shall by Gods grace be enlarged . We thoughte at the fyrste onely to giue but a taste of these corruptions , to prouoke the patrons thereof to a more full defence , which when it shall be set oute , we minde more fully to shewe our meanings . In meane time we beseeche God to appease these troubles , to worke his peoples deliuerance from all Antichristian slauerie , to preserue our Queene in peace wholely to seeke the Reformation of his Churche whiche shal be to his glory .

Fare well . Anno. 1572.
To the reuerend Father in Christ . D. I. P. the moste vigilant B. of N. and his louing Father .

HEalth in Christ . When we heard at the fyrst ( reuerend father in Christ ) that a controuersie of the apparel of Ministers was risen among you : that matter did greatly astonish vs , because we feared , leaste that thing continuing and increasing longer , shoulde bring some greater mischiefe : and therfore we laboured as muche as lay in vs to pacifye some certaine men , least aboute a thing not of anye suche great waighte , they shoulde trouble or disquiet them selues . And surely this foretelling of oure minde no whitte at all deceyued vs , if those things be true that we heare , to wit : that many other things , besides these garments are thrust vpon the Churches , and those Ministers cast out from the Churches , which will not subscribe vnto the ordinances of certaine men , whiche either abuse the name of the Queene , or else by theyr yeelding , make hir more bolde in suche lyke matters , so that according to her pleasure , shee may ordaine what shee will . It increaseth also our greefe , for that we see our letter to be imprinted , wherin we indeuorred to mitigate some one or other man , and that the Godly brethren are pressed with the aucthoritie of our name , & so we to come into suspition with many , as thoughe we allowed popishe fylthinesses or corruptions . In deede we counselled certain Ministers , that they should not forsake theyr Churches for a cappe or a surplesse , but that so farre forthe as they might . ( Keping godlinesse sound and vntouched ) they shoulde feede the Lords flocke . In meane tyme we neuer haue allowed eyther theyr superstition or foolishe toyes , whiche thruste vppon godly Ministers suche things , and out of the Popes schoole , or rather kitchen , scrape suche fylthinesses together , throughe whiche they make much trouble and busynesse to good pastoures , and gyue offence to the weake . But especially it seemeth harde vnto vs , that the Bishops shoulde shewe them selues to be the officers of this execution , that by them , they whiche will not yeelde , should be cast out . I woulde to God they would way , what the Lorde woulde , when he speaketh of that same vntrusty steward of the house , who whilest he ought to haue fed his housholde , banquetteth and playeth with drunckardes , and beateth hys fellowe seruauntes . For I see not howe farre they differ from hys manners , who doe so easily allowe the phantasies of superstitious courtiers , and handle godly Ministers so vncurteously . Neither woulde I euer haue thonghte that any could be found among the Byshoppes , which would haue shewed him selfe an officer of this rashnesse , or at the least haue confyrmed the same throughe cowardly dissymulation . For me thoughte that all this matter had sprong from certaine men that abused the aucthoritie of the Queenes moste excellent Maiestie , but we hoped that the Bishoppes woulde haue defended the cause of the Ministers , and haue soughte meanes , whereby this mischeefe mighte haue bene redressed .

There are I graunt among the brethren , certaine men a litle waywarde . But notwithstanding , theyr cause is not euill , muche lesse wicked or vngodly , yea rather it were to be wished that theyr iudgemente mighte preuaile , the whiche thing bicause then it seemed impossyble vnto vs , we admonished them to bend them selues to things present , and that they shoulde truste in the Lorde , who at length would giue some occasion , whereby all things shoulde be restored to better . Nowe because I heare ( my Father ) youre godlinesse to be especially praised among the rest , as also the godlinesse of oure father D. Pilkington ( who would not as yet tourne oute anye ) you for oure olde frendshippes sake seeme to be admonished , that you goe forwarde constantly in the same godlynesse . And that you remember that euerye one o● vs hathe sinnes ●nowe in him selfe , so that there is no neede that he communicate wy●h other mennes offences . Christ is the husbande of hys owne churche , and a moste sharpe reuenger , and will not suffer the wronge that is done to his faythfull seruauntes to escape vnpunished . To this Christ one day shall an accounte of thys our function and office be made , not to a Queene , nor to the Pope , nor to them whiche challendge to themselues Papisticall or Pontifycall authoritie in the Churche . Take in good parte according to youre accustomed gentlenesse , these things written in deede vpon the sodaine without studie , but not withoute a care of brotherly loue . As concerning our matters , I haue wrytten more in those letters which you shal receiue from the Marte . D. Bullinger saluteth you moste hartely . My Wife also hath her hartie commendacions to you and to your wife .

Fare you well at Tigurin , the .11 . of September . Anno. 1566. Rodolphe Gualter , Minister of the Churche of God at Tigurin .
To the reuerend father in Christ , E. G. Bishop of L. T. B. wisheth grace and health from the Lord.

REuerende father , besides that your letters came very late to my handes , it is come to passe for wante of messengers , that I also haue beene faine to come a day after the faire in answering . But I yeelde you most heartie thanckes , both for your most courteous letters , and also for your small gift ( as you list to terme it ) which notwithstanding . I wil gladly keepe , as a moste excellent and acceptable pledge of youres . And as for those Annotations of mine : I wil then take them to be suche as you reporte them to be , when they shall haue throughly bene corrected by the benefite of you , and other learned men . As concerning our matt●rs : all things are yet well and quiet among vs , through the singular mercie and goodnesse of almightie God : whereas else this Churche mighte well crie out , that saying of Dauids , They haue hated me withoute cause . But it is well with vs that we be ill spoken of , and falsly accused for Christes names sake . In which behalfe it is an honoure to suffer any thing . Some , ( that is to wit the papists and Vbiquitaries are they which maintaine the Christe is euery wher by the bodely presence of his manhoode . Vbibiquitaries ) not only in lame vs , but also banne vs as wicked folkes and heretickes : and other some ( namely suche as are ashamed to haue theyr loosenesse restrained by oure discipline suche as it is ) finde faulte with vs and abhorre vs as ouer s●uere . But I hope the day will come , that we shall iustifie oure case in bothe the poynts of this accusation , before the iudgement seat of the sonne of God. For as touching oure doctrine , we are out of doubte : it agreeth with Gods word : and I think it wil not be hard for vs to shew , that the simplicitie of the ceremonies of this church , ( wherof we repent vs not at all ) and the whole order of oure Discipline , are drawne out of the same fountaine , allbeit that we willingly acknowledge our selues to be farre off from that , which ought to haue bene established ere this . Moreouer , what heauing and craftie dealing there hathe beene a late at Augusta , agaynste all the Churches of these partes , and consequently also againste youre Churches , and the Churches of Fraunce , all which we thincke to agree with vs in all poyntes of doctrine : I suppose it hathe bene reported vnto you already . Which exceeding great mischeefe was such , as though it should not touch you at all , yet ought it of right to moue you also , for the defacing of so many and so great Churches . This therefore was the cause , that the last winter , al the Churches of these our quarters , ( only Basill excepted , bicause that they a little afore , had by themselues set forthe a lyke confession in all poyntes , in effecte of matter , ) did giue our consent to the common confession written by our brethren of Zurike , which great consent we hope wil yeeld most plentifull frute of concord . Afterwarde all the French Churches folowed this president , by putting forth a record of their agreing with vs : now if it may please the Lord to graunt thus muche more , that your & the Scottish churches might also testifie your agreeing with this common confession of oures , by some publike wryting : no doubt but it would greatly auaile to the hindering , or rather to the vtter ouerthrowing of theyr deuices , which inforce our condemnation , vppon trust of multitude rather than of reasons : and also woulde stirre vp manye men to trie oute the true religion , who are nowe borne in hande , that oure Churches are at debate among themselues with innumerable discordes : that I may say nothing of manye weake ones , whom ( it is not to be doubted of ) should be very muche strengthened by the consent of manye nations . Considering therefore reuerende Father , that this thing is very profytable for the Churche of GOD , and righte agreeable to the charge of youre selfe , and your reuerende fellowe offycers : I thincke it a worthy matter for you , not only to take care of , but also to preferre by all meanes to the Queenes Maiestie : which charge I hartely desyre you , yea , and for Christes owne sake beseeche you , that you will not refuse to goe throughe wyth , for the Churche of God. But for as muche as I am once entred into this matter , I beseeche you of your gentlenesse Reuerend Father , that you will gently and patiently suffer me to proceede a little further in a matter not altogither vnlike this , syth no ambition ( as God helpe me ) but only good will towardes the Englishe churches , dothe moue me thereunto . There is a report brought vnto vs , and the same is confyrmed by certaine mennes letters both out of Fraunce and out of Germany , that in your countrie , many Ministers of gods worde , ( who otherwise wer faultlesse as well in life as in doctrine ) were put out of offyce by the Queenes maiestie , euen with the consent of you Bishops , bicause they re●used to subscribe to some certaine Ceremonies . The summe of which Iniunctions is reported to haue bene thys . That they should admit againe , not only the garments which were the Priestes badges in poperie : but also certaine ceremonies which haue bene growne oute of kinde long agoe into moste fylthie superstitions , as crossing and kneeling at the Communicating of the Lordes supper , and other things of the same stampe . It is reported moreouer ( which is muche greuouser , that Women are permitted to minister Baptisme , that there is authoritie giuen to the Prince to bring in 〈◊〉 Ceremonies vppon them . And fynally that all power of ordering Ecclesiasticall matters , is giuen to the Bishoppes only , wythoute giuing the Ministers of seuerall Churches , so muche as any leaue to complayne . I wrote agayne to those freendes of mine , That the church of God did perswade it selfe farre other wise , bothe of the Queenes maiestie , and also of so many learned and religious bishops : and moreouer that at the least many of these things were ( to my seeming ) eyther vtterly deuised by some malicious persons , or at least wise miswrested . Neuerthelesse I beseeche you of your courtesye , that we maye haue some conference of these matters betwixte oure selues . I knowe there be two opinions concerning the Reformation of Churches . For there be some of opinion , that nothing at all should be added to the simplicitie of the Apostolike church , and therfore that ( wythout exception ) all things are to be done by vs which the Apostles did , and whatsoeuer the Church that succeded next after the Apostles , hathe added to the former things , they thincke they must be abolyshed at once . Contrariwise , there be other some , which thinke that certaine of the olde ceremonies ouermore , are partly to be held stil as profytable and necessary : and partly to be borne withall for concordes sake , although they be not necessary . As for my part , I am out of doubt , that the Doctrine of the Apostles was most perfect in all poyntes , and that it is not lawfull for any man to take any thing from it , o●to putte any thing to it . But as for theyr Ceremonies , I iudge a little otherwise of them . For fyrst of all , it is certaine that at the fyrst springing vp of churches : not euen the Apostles themselues were able to stablishe whatsoeuer they thought expedient , and therfore that they proceeded steppe by steppe , according as theyr ordaining of Deacons sheweth : in so muche as they did suffer for a time euen many Iewishe things , like as it appeareth in theyr Stories . Againe , who doub●eth but that the Apostles hadde a singular regarde of theyr owne times , and also of the places and persones , in outwarde ceremonies ? in so much as it is no likelyhoode , that the same ceremonies were in all poyntes obserued in all places , according as it appeareth wel inough bi the notable Epistle of Irene vnto Victor . Besydes thys , euen very necessitie hathe abolyshed some traditions of theirs , as those common refections . Wherfore I am of opinion , that all that hath ben don by the Apostles in case of ceremonies , is not by and by , nor without exception to be followed for a rule . Neyther do I maruell that those olde Fathers , vpon consyderation had to theyr owne tymes , haue abated some of those fyrst things , or put somewhat to them .

And to conclude chaunged some . But euen they them selues that I may speake with theyr leaue plainly what I thinke , had not as me seemeth so good consideration of Christian symplicitie , and purenesse as was meete . For fyrste they oughte to haue considered , that the abolishing of the Ceremonies of Moses by little and little , was not to sette them vppe againe in time by another pretence : and also that the Heathenish ceremonies were to be plucked vp by the rotes , so as there might not any print of heathnishnes remain to be sene , were it neuer so smal , according as Moses aduisedly charged the Israelites at theyr entring into the land of Chanaan . And therfore I think them to haue sinned sore , how be it not vppon malice which haue folowed both the law of Moses and also the manner of the heathen , for a rule in ordaining the ceremonies of the churche : which thing howe busily they haue done , I suppose there is no man ignorant . Againe , they ought to haue considered this also , that the abolishing of the ceremonies of the law , was not to bring in another bondage of seruice vpon it ( for that had not ben a taking away of the yoke of the law , but an exchange of it ) but rather to the ende that all men should behold Chryst exhibited , from henceforth vnclothed , and walking in the cleere lyght , and nomore darkened with any figures or shadowes . For ( according as Austin complaining very greeuously of the same matter , hathe rightly deemed ) this same is the cause why oure Lord ordained both fewer ( that is to witte but two , in stede of all the other former whiche were innumerable ) and also simpler and euidenter sacraments of the new testament . And therfore I say againe , that they sinned righte greeuously , as ofte as they brought any Sacramentalles , ( that is to say any ceremonies to import signification of spiritual things ) into the church of God. Therfore , at one word for all I am of opinion , that whatsoeuer hath ben conuerted into the rites and customes of the chrystians , eyther from the Iewes or from the Painims , without Ch●istes ordinance , and the assured example of the Apostles : and likewise , that all Sacramentall ceremonies ought to be thrust out of the church at once , whervnto they could neuer be brought by any right : and that the church cannot be restored to hir natiue beautie , so long as they continue in it . Now remaine only suche ceremonies as pertaine only vnto comelinesse : In whiche case I 〈◊〉 compelled eftso●e to finde lacke of discretion in many , euen of the auncientest bishops . For fyrst of all , as concerning the ministration of the sacraments wheras all ●●at euer is done there , hath couert importance , and it is no more lawfull for men to ordaine sacraments , than to deuise new promisses of saluation : and wheras Christ the author both of the worde and of the sacraments , wo●ld of set purpose that the ceremonies of them should be very simple & very few , insomuch that he prescribed a rule certaine of these holy doings , vnto his true shepherdes in these woordes : Doe ye this : I cannot wonder inoughe what reason should moue diuers men to be of opinion , that all the whole furniture , wherwith euen the ancientest fathers of all thought themselues to garnish Baptim and the Lordes supper , should be helde still with toothe and naile : and some also should thinke , that it ought to be set vp againe in places where it is taken away as it ought to be . If antiquitie be required : Christ is he that gaue vs the Prophets and Apostles : and again , by the Apostles , shepherds and teachers . If authori●e required : Chryste is the foundation , the Apostles are the maister builders , and the shepherdes and teachers are bound to build golde and siluer vppon that foundation . Therefore lette the golde and siluer abide still : and as for the hay and chaffe , seing that the day of the Lorde hathe discouered them , why I pray you do we build them vp againe ? Nay verily , why striue we so much for chaffe and stubble , or rather euen for more trifling things than chaffe and stubble be : and if not vtterly , yet at the least wise for the moste part , why neglecte we the substantiall and pretious building in deede ? But this complaint perchaunce agreed better to the times wherein the fyrst successors of the Apostles liued , than to this doting olde age of the present world . For I esteeme the sinnes of those fathers as vertues in comparison of theyr vnlearned , heedelesse , and ambitious successors . For by what other termes should I call them , who besides that they haue made as great adoe aboute ceremonies only , as aboute the whole summe of Religion , wheruppon hathe insued that horrible disfyguring of all the parts of doctrine ) seme to haue had the ouer ruling of Goddes house to none other intent , but to ouerthrowe it quite , being already decayed . They that could not away wyth the plaine fashions of the Apostles , haue added a thousand ceremonies to the baptim of the new instructed . It lyked some to haue them anoynted , as though they should haue gone to wrestling : some to haue them plucked out of Sathans power by certain coniurings and breathings , as folk passing out of the diuels dominion into the kingdome of God. Some to haue waxe candles giuen them lighted , as to fol● conueyed out of darknesse into light : some to be clad in whyte rayment , as f●l●e that had put of the old man and put on the newe : and other some to haue milke and honey giuen them to taste aforehand , as folke comming by a newe kinde of life . All which things if I listed to go through with , what ende should there be of theyr masking toyes , rather then christen ceremonies ? But ( say they ) so it behoued the heathen to be allured vnto Christ . As who would say , that Christ and the Apostles after Christe , coulde not haue prouided these things . For surely , as for those that make the apostles authors of these toyes , they are not once worthe the disprouing , howe aunciente so euer they bee . I pray you what a thing is this , that whereas it is the propertie of christian religion to do nothing in huddermudder ( for it is a trick of Sathans to shunne the light ) : yet notwithstanding , many of those auncientest thought it good to hide the holy misteries of the christians , as if they had bene the misteries of Ceres , inso muche as they admitted not the newly instructed to the syght of them : yea , & as for that whole action , wherin looke whatsoeuer thing was fygured vnder a fewe plaine tokens , the Lorde himselfe bothe willed and commaunded the same to be openly preached and published by his word , alowed and expounded in such a tongue as all men vnderstode , according as he himself was wont to do : they transformed it into certaine secrete conceites , and into certain ceremonies scarcely vnderstode of many of the priestes themselues . But farre greater was the negligence of the bishops that succeeded : who conueyed that thing to the Chrysten mennes infants , which was ordained for theyr sakes that passed out of Painimrie into Christianitie , after traynement in the fyrst principles of Religion , being already men growne . If any man do●te whether this be so or no : I pray you let him consyder the maner of baptim according as the papists kepe it , and yet still by tradition from furthest antiquity , sauing that they haue added a few things of theyr owne , and held stil the straunge language , whiche at that time was common in the West and the South . For there they that are to be baptized , are bidden not onely to render a reason of theyr faythe : but also come to be baptized . Which thing althoughe manie ; ( among whome Austin himselfe is one ) haue gone aboute to excuse by some qualifycation : saying that the Godfathers and Godmothers are demaunded , and doe make answer in the childrens names : yet notwithstanding , who seeth not , that this is but a weake deuice , to cloke the thing by some coloure , which was crept in by abuse ? for I beseeche you , if baptim may not be ministred , without present vnder taking for the faith of the partie that is to be baptized : for except that be graunted ; wherfore I pray you is the childe that comes to christening , demaunded of his faythe : ) to what purpose is baptim hastened ? and why rather do we not delay baptim , vntill such time as those that are to be baptized , maye be able to professe theyr owne faythe , as the Catabaptistes do , which God forbid . And I am oute of doubte , that thys negligence of the Bishops , whome it behooued of necessytie to haue putte a difference betweene the christenyng of babes , and the chrystening of men growne , as in respecte of some outwarde ceremonies ) hathe caused many to delaye the christening of theyr children the longer , howe be it that they dyd not well in so doing : Notwithstanding , that the sayde error was not espied in olde time , ( no not euen of inanye Byshops ) euen thys one thing declareth , That Nazyanzene being a Bishoppes sonne , was aboue twentie yeres old ere he was christened . Muche lesse had thys opinion taken roote , of the necessitie of Chrystening vnto saluation , whiche opinion the Byshoppes of Africke broughte in afterwarde in resysting Pelagius . And the cause whye I make mention of these matters , is for that ( among other things ) it is sayde that in youre Countrye the little Babe that is to be Christened , is demaunded of his faythe by the Minister . And I woulde gladlye learne of you reuerende Father , vppon what probable reason , or vppon what reson that pertaineth to the edifying of Goddes Church , the same custome is grounded . As for the signing● of folke with the crosse , althoughe it be very auncient : yet surely I see not what profyte it can bryng : and all be it the same is wonderfully , and altogither ouerreachingly commended ( speciallye by Chrysostome , ) as a certaine summe of the christen Religion : yet notwithstanding in as muche as it is not grounded vppon the authoritie of Gods woorde , or vppon any example of the Apostles , ( for I make no reckening of vnauthorised stuffe ) that is to say , forasmuche as it is vtterly destitute of Gods woorde , and pertaineth not in anye wise vnto comlynesse , but ( to be shorte ) hathe bene the fyrste opener of the gappe vnto that mooste abhominable superstition and worshipping of the crosse , the horriblest of all Idolatries : I can lesse fynde in my hearte that it shoulde be nombred among those things indifferent , than the brasen serpent of Ezechias , whose example it would become all christian Princes to folow , chefely in this case , that is to say in ouerthrowing the Idols of crosses and crucifixes . But whereas childrenne that are to be christened , are offered in the open congregation of the church , rather in honest than in costly apparell : where as there is vsed a certaine conuenient forme of prayer , and exposition of baptim : wheras the godfathers and godmothers are present to take charge of the holy bringing vp of the child : and finally wheras the children be sprinkled with cleare water taken reuerently in cleane handes according to the forme appointed by Christe : considering that these rites be simple , honest , and in no wise magicall , and finally suche as can not giue any occasion of superstition : who is he that dares condemne them , except he wil be reproued by the expresse words of Paule , who giueth commaundement , that in the Lords house all things should be done fitly and orderly ? Furthermore as touching the Lords supper , who can refraine teares , to declare howe miserably it is transformed into that olde stagelike frisking & horrible Idol gadding ? That the vndiscrete zele of suche as were not contented with the simplenesse of Christ and his Apostles , opened the fyrste gap to this corruption , I thincke it needeth not many wordes to proue it , for as much as bothe the olde and the newe seruices , as well of the East as of the West , which are so muche the vncleaner , as they be done with more solemnitie , doe moste manifestly proue the matter to be so . And heere I dout not , but you haue well marked how wily sathan hath shewed himselfe . For who would not thinke , that the vsing of an altar , or of some table were an indifferent thing ? Therfore by little and little , Altares were brought in in stead of tables : verely bicause the common tables , ( which neuerthelesse the auncient fathers vsed euen for theyr bankets ) seemed not to agree well with so stately seruice . Heerevppon sathan tooke fyrste occasion to transforme this holy action , ( which was ordained , not to giue , but to receiue Christe ) into a propitiatorie sacrifice , that is to say , moste shamefully to treade vnder foote the deathe of Christ , which is there declared . They were not content with common and plaine songs , and therfore vnder pretence of beutifying this holy action , that busie and curious prickesong & descanting was brought in , more mete for stage playes , for the most part , then for an holy action , and more fyt to delite the eare , then to stirre vp the minde . A thing surely for this respect not only vnprofitable , but also very hurtfull , that in that noise , no man coulde well marke what was sayde : so that the matter it selfe dothe plainly conuince , that the true worship of God was by this meanes especially transformed into vaine , and at the length mere stagelike songs . A simple and common furniture pleased them not , nor was agreeable , therfore they sought out marble , they guilded walles , they prouided vesselles of golde and siluer , and theyr ministers beganne to be attired in pretious and Bishoppelike , yea , and Emperourelike garments , and all forsothe to honoure the sacramente with all . And so forthwith these were the meanes and instrumentes to foster and cherishe riotousnesse , to neglecte true charitie , and to be shorte , to bring in folish and stagelike furniture . They were not content with a simple breaking of the breade , whiche notwithstanding is not the least parte of this action , therfore little round cakes began to be giuen to each , and the order apointed of the Lord , was abrogated . It pleased them not to giue the breade into theyr hands while they were sytting or standing , as in olde times it was , but it seemed them good to haue it holden vp , as it were , to worship it , and afterwarde was kneeling vsed , and chose rather to haue a morsell put in to theyr mouthe , for more reuerence sake forsothe . And that this was the fyrst beginning of that moste horrible bread worship , whiche can not yet be aboly●●ed , who seeth not ? Nowe then seeing these things are so , and the moste dolefull and sorowfull euente of these honors vnseasonably and preposterouslye giuen to oure holy things dothe more then suffyciently teache vs , how far better it were for vs to content oure selues with the symple institution of Christe , then with an vntowardly zeale to fashion or deuise anye of these things : he doth best of all in my minde , which abolysheth these things , ( althoughe not wicked of themselues , yet as not necessary , and very little profytable , although they be well vsed , but very much hurtfull , as the most heauie state of churches sheweth and setteth forth , ) with no lesse earnestnesse , then moste euidente Idolatrie . For I pray you , if there were a stone set for some purpose in the parting of two wayes , whereat ntowithstanding , all men , vnlesse they were very circumspecte , mighte fall with daunger of their liues , whether were it better to take that stone at once out of the way , or to let it alone , and daily to warne the passengers on which hande they were best to goe , if they would not s●●mble ? For if theyr directours should be either slouthfull , or not circumspect inoughe , in vayne might they admonish a great number . Notwithstanding we thinke that rites which are necessary for order and comelynesse , are to be retained , as , that vppon certaine dayes , and at certaine houres , the sacramentall sygnes , being taken oute of cleane vessels , be reuerently giuen and receyued , and what so euer is of like sorte , pertaining rather to an honest , than an ambicious manner . Nowe if a man aske me , whether I thinke that nothing at all of these things , which are of themselues indifferent , may be retained , at least for the weakes sake , and whether the ministery oughte to be forsaken , rather then any suche thing shoulde be obserued , especially if this caution be namely added , that these things are eyther broughte in , or as yet tolerate not properly to binde mennes consciences , but for other good consyderations . I answere , that I thinke not , that congregations may be forsaken for garments and cappes , or some suche like mere indifferent and mene thing . But fyrst of all , I think that there are manny things , which of themselues being indifferent , yet for an opinion of worshippe annexed vnto them , can skarsly or not at all be eschued , ought to be counted amongst superstitions , or surely amongste very needy occasyons of superstition . Moreouer this is to be obserued , that many things may be tolerated for the weake , which notwithstanding oughte not to be renued , after they are once taken away . For that this were not to take away an infyrmitie : but rather , in some respect , to restore it when it is taken awaye , and not to call it backe , after it is departed , so that I maruell not , that many men in this case shewe them selues harder in the restoring of certaine things , then perhaps they would haue bene at the beginning , when they were in hand , to take them away . Moreouer and besides . I ad this that to my thinking , weakenes is falsly pretended in that kingdome , wherin so many yeres already , the gospell hath bene preached and receiued , yea and confirmed wyth the bloud of so many excellent martyres . If so be that the Apostle did rightly chide the Galathians , for that when they had begon in the spirite , they went backe againe to the fleshe , how muche more may it be lawfull to say the same of you Englishe men , if peraduenture after that ye haue began in the spirite , you fall backe againe ( as God forbid ) not as they did to the fleshe , that is to say , to Moises his ceremonies , whereof God was the author , but to the trifles and trashe of mennes traditions . Last of all , I will not be afraide to say this , trusting to your equitie , if they doe amisse which had rather depart from theyr congregations , then to suffer those things to be thruste vppon them againste theyr conscience , that they are in greate fault before God and his Angels , which had rather a bide to haue flockes depriued of pastors , and foundations laide of moste horrible confusion by the pastors forsaking of theyr congregations , then to see ministers otherwise without fault , to vse rather thys then that apparell : and that in some places there shoulde rather be no supper giuen to the hungrie sheepe , then that kneling should be omitted . Which things , if they shuld be there done amongste you , ( as God forbidde that I should thinke that they are done ) surely they would be beginnings , not of former , but of far greter calamities . Againe I beseeche you , reuerende father , that if I offend heerein , you would paciently bear with me so offending not of ambition or malice , but ( as the Lorde knoweth , ) of rudenes and vnskilfulnes . If it be true that is commonly reported , and I am not yet persuaded , that baptisme is priuately permitted to women amongst you , I can not tel what is to go backe from the gole to the barriers , if this be not . For first of all from whence sprang this most filthy error , but from a grose ignorance of the matter of the sacrament . Who so euer is not washed in water , is condemned say they which are the patrones of this prophanation of baptisme . If it be so , the saluation of infants shall come , not from the couenaunt of god , ( which notwithstanding is the endoubted ground of our saluation ) but from the seale annexed vnto the conenaunte ( and that not to make it more certaine in it selfe , but rather to certify vs of it . And that more wicked is , the saluation of infants shal wholely consist in the diligence or negligence of the parents . But seeing , the excellent seruaunt of God D. Peter Martyr , as you right well knowe , reuerend father , a good while a goe disputed of this matter at large in his commentaries wrytten to that godly king Edwarde , and that , as I thinke , with the consent of the whole Englishe churche in those dayes , I woulde not now at large discourse vppon this matter . This only I say , if that reporte shoulde be true , it were greatly to be lamented to see them now to tourne back as it were to the barryers , which shoulde haue rather bene come euen to the gole , especially hauing had suche guides and masters . But if those things shall be true , whiche seeme not to me probable , that Metropolitanes practise and put in vre those most filthy abuses which are more intollerable then ought else in the church of Antichrist , as pluralities of benefices , licences of not resydences , to contracte Matrimonie , and for eating of fleshe , and suche like , as it were surely not a corruption of christianitie , which I speake with horror , but a manifest falling away from Christ , and therfore they were not to be condemned , but rather to be praised : which would oppose them selues against suche endeuors . Moreouer by what right , whether ye respect the word of God , or all the olde Canons , may either the ciuil Magistrate by himself , where congregations are already erected and established , bring in vppon them any new rites , or abrogate the olde : or the Bishoppes wythoute the iudgement and consent of theyr Eldership , of duetie ordaine any thing , I haue not yet learned . But bicause I see that these two plagues , that is to say , the dishonest and ambitious flattery of former Bishops , partly abusing the vertuous Princes , and partly seruing theyr euil affections and vices haue vtterly vndone the Church , vntil the matter came to this passe , that the mightyest of the Metropolitanes of the West , by the iuste iudgemente of God , so punishing Magistrates and Bishops , had scratched and rauished vnto himselfe all matters bothe diuine and humane . I must needes confesse that I am astonished & amased , so often as I think of these things , and I forsee , that eyther the same , or more greeuous punishments do agayne hang ouer the most part of people , which at the first , with great affection , embraced the gospel , and now by little and little fall from it . And I dout not but the good in what place so euer , doe in like sort lament , whome the Lord heare , and for his sonne Iesus Christes sake giue vnto Kings & Princes a true , godly , and religious mind , and graunt them good and stout counsellors , & to the gouernors of his church , especially his holy spirite , & most aboundant knowledge and zeale , & moreouer increase and preserue the people which haue already professed the true fayth in sinceritie of doctrine and rites , and godly manners .

You see ( reuerende father ) howe farre this heate , as it were hathe enforced me ▪ But I beseeche you , for ▪ and accordinge to youre good nature , to take this my doinge in good parte , and consider that it is the token of good loue , that suche as loue one another , are full of care and pensiuenes for theyr frendes , euen then , when they seme to be in best case . But nowe of these matters too muche . It remayneth that I commend in most instant wise vnto your worthye and fatherlie goodnesse the Frenche Churche , whiche next vnto God , and hir maiestie , is moste bounde vnto yow , that if so be the ennemies of the Gospell , being to passe , that in all places , and by all meanes possible , they do maliciously go aboute , the poore banyshed maye yet at the leaste haue some refuge & succoure amongest yow . I had thought to haue wrytten letters to the same purpose , ( so bolde some tyme I am in my follies ) to other , bothe Ecclesiasticall & also noble men , of the realme of England , and peraduenture to hir owne maiestie , but I with helde my selfe for manye considerations . If peraduenture yow shall perceaue that this my little labor may profite , I wil not be afrayd , God willyng , not only to venture my estimation , but my life also , rather then omitte any occasion whereby the kingdome of Christe , may either be preserued , or encreased . Farewell , reuerend father , and as you were w●nt , continue your loue & prayers for me and this whole Church and schole .

Geneue ● . Cal. Iul. M.D.lxvi . Yours most assured in the Lord Theodore Beza minister of the word in the Church of Geneue .
England repent , Bishops relent , returne while you haue space , Time is at hand , by truth to stand , if you haue any grace . Ioyne now in one , that Christ alone , by scepter of his word : May beare the stroke : least you prouoke his heauy hand and sword .