Tessaradelphus, or The four brothers The qualities of whom are contayned in this old riddle. Foure bretheren were bred at once without flesh, bloud, or bones. One with a beard, but two had none, the fourth had but halfe one. Collected and translated, by Thomas Harrab.

Tessaradelphus , OR The foure Brothers .

The qualities of whom are contayned in this old Riddle .

Foure bretheren were bred at once Without flesh , bloud , or bones . One with a beard , but two had none , The fourth had but halfe one .

Collected and translated . By THOMAS HARRAR .

permissu superiorum , 1616.

To the Reader .

REader , I hauing trauailed in diuers parts of the Christian world , chiefelie to take a diligent viewe of the sundry sectes ( which some call Relgions ) which are nowe in these parts thereof ; and finding that to one obiecting their disagreements one with another , they presently answere : that they agree all in fundamentall pointes , although they dissent in some matters , which they say , appertaine not to faith . Knowing by experience this answere to be most false , I thought it worth the labour to sette before thine eyes very briefly , yet plainly , the foure Principall Sects , which are eyther allowed , or permitted in some countries here in Europe ; out of which , the multitude of petite Sects issue , to the end thou mayest see the irreconciliable differences amongst them . And when thou hast dilligently considered them , I hope thou wilt say of them , that recitasse est confutasse , the rehearsing of them is the confuting of them . They are obscurely comprehended in the Ridle aforesaide , for they were all bredde with Martin Luther , although they came forth some of them after , as thou shalt see in this litle Treatise . I call them brothers , as they ( partly forced by Catholikes , and partely to deceaue the ignorant ) doe sometimes stile themselues , although in their writings they condemne one another to the pit of Hell . Thou wouldest know who these foure be : Marry Lutheranisine , Caluinisme , Anabaptisme , and Anglianisme . Some wil perhaps say , that Religions or Sects should rather be termed sisters , because they are in the latine tongue of the feminine gender ; but I answere , that Sects and Schismes taking their denomination of their Authours , who were men , may be well of the masculine gender , I call the religion of England Anglianisme , because it among the rest hath no one especiall Authour , but is sette forch by the Prince , and Parliament . The same Religion is now receaued in Scotland , because the King is one and the same of both Kingdomes , as also of Ireland , and other Isles . These foure brothers ( as I terme them ) are without flesh , bloud , or bone , because indeed there is no substance at all , or sappe of religion , but certaine shadowes and shewes in them , as thou mayest see in the sequell . One of them hath a beard , that is , some seemley face of a man ; I meane ceremonies of Religion , as Lutheranisme hath , and two , to wit , Caluinisme , and Anabaptisme , no beardes at all , except here and there a fewling haire , that is , no ceremonies to accoumpt of , but some fewe remnants not worth the reckoning . Anglianisme hath after a fashion halfe a beard , for that it retayneth yet some ceremonies of auncient Religion , although dayli decreasing . In reading this litle booke , thou mayest take a view of them all , and consider well with thy selfe , whether there be any hope of saluation in any of them , which are opposite to the vniuersall Catholik Church , so renoumed ouer the world , for so many ages together .

Farewell in Christ .

CHAP. I. Of Martin Luther .

MArtin Luther , the Author of this first Sect , was borne at Isleb in the County of Mansfield , Anno 1483. the two and twentith day of October ; his father was called Iohn Ludder , and his mothers name was Margaret , people of meane degree ; some say that his mother conceaued him of an Incubus : but whether that be true or no , I wil not heere dispute . Many write that the Deuil and he were very familiar one with another , and that they did eate a bushel of salt together . And howe on a time , when the Gospel was read at Masse , erat Iesus eijciens demonium . Luther threw himselfe to the ground , crying that is not I , that is not I : he chaunged his name from Ludder , which signifieth in their tongue Mocker , Theese , or Filth , into Luther , which betokeneth a pure man . So the Manichees chaunged their masters name Manes , that is , madde , into Manichee ; which signifieth to powre downe Manna . Lib. de here . c. 42.

After that Luther had bestowed his young yeares in humane letters , and had beene brought vp in the colledges of Magdeburge , and Senach in Turing , he gaue himselfe to the studie of ciuil Lawe , but presently after , one of his companions walking with him out of the towne , was strocken starke dead with a thunder-bolte , Luther not hurt , but all on a smoake ; with this chaunce he was so frighted , that incontinently he left the world , and put himselfe into a Monastery of Augustin Friars in the towne of Erford , Anno. 1504. his companions wondren at this chaunge in him , hauing neuer seene so much as one : sparke of religion , or piety in him , but rather plaine signes of debanchements and disorders . He had scarce ended his yeare of probation , but he grewe prowd , and haughty , hauing indeed some more learning then his fellowes , ouer whome he would dominiere and play the Master . For which cause as an vnruly fellow , he was sent from thence to Wittenberge , to a Couent of the same order , Anno 1508. And at the same time there being a diuision betweene certaine howses of that order , ( for seauen Monasteries banded against their Generall ) Luther took part with the reuolted , and was sent to Rome as an aduocate of their cause . After this , Pope Leo the tenth hauing sette forth Indulgences , for such as would contribute to the wars against the Turks , the promulgation whereof was assigned to the Iacobin Faiars , and not to the Austenes , as they desired ; Stambitius Generall of the said Austenes tooke it in euil parte , because such charge had beene accustomed to be committed to his Order , which was matter of no smal credit : And for very spite sette vp Luther , whome he knew to be fitte for seditious exployts , and tongued at will , as also bolde and venterous , to preach against the abuse of Preachers , and Collectors of Indulgences . This Stambitius was emboldened so to doe , by the countenance of Fredericke Duke of Saxony , who was soare offended with the Pope , because he had not the Bishopricke of Magdeburge , but it was giuen to the Arche-Bishoppe of Ments , who vnder the Pope had the assigning of the preaching of the Pardons . Luther then mounting into the pulpit , thundred against the Collectors , and Preachers of Pardons , more vehemently indeede then Stambitius would haue had him to haue done , flouting , mocking , and scoffing at them , and now and then girding at the Pope himselfe , insomuch as it irked Stambitius that he had sette him on worke ; but now it was past his helpe : For many grew colde in deuotion towards this contribution , by reason of Luther his preaching against it , and sent the Collectors backe not only empty handed , but loaded also with contumelies , and reproaches . He growing more malapert for that the people gaue eare vnto him , was so audacious , as he wrote to the Arch-Bishoppe of Ments , and to him of Brandeburg against the Collectors , who made no reckoning of him , nor of his letters . He sette forth also certaine Theses or propositions against the foresaide , taxing Eccliasticall persons of negligence and ignorance . Tekell superior of the Iacobins , set forth contrary propositions , answering his , and calleth Luther Heretike .

At this time in very truth , there was great corruption in manners , and the Clergy was nothing so vigilant and carefull , as aforetime ; which thinges facilitated Luther his proceedings . All the Christian world was Catholike , and for many hundred yeares together , had no Heretical enemies to reckon of : Not any Protestant , or Puritane had euer beene heard of , which made Church-men to grow leffe watchfull , and to liue at their ease , wallowing in wealth and pleasures . Pope Leo hearing of these tumults wrote to the Duke of Saxony , to send Luther to his Legat Caietan , who was with the Emperour Maximilian , or else to send him to Rome , where the cause might be heard ; but the Duke excused the matter , and Luther wrote most humbly vnto the Pope , and offered to be silent hereafter , so that his aduersaries would surcease . Neuerthelesse , the matter grew worse ; for Siluester Prierias a Iacobin , Master of the Popes pallace , buckled with Luther , and extolled the Popes authority aboue all Councels , and powers on the earth , in such sort , as Luther enraged with his assertions , abased the same more then euer . Diuers Iacobins tooke Siluester his part , and many Augustines defended Luther : And the broyles grewe so hoate , that at length Luther his complices , called in question the power of the Pope about Indulgences , and questioned workes meritorious , and satisfactory , and sundry other matters not doubted of before ; but Luther himselfe would not seeme to doubt thereof , for in his first tome he auoucheth the same , affirming , that the Pope the immediate Vicar of Iesus Christ , hath authority to distrubute Indulgences .

After all this , he humbled himselfe againe to the Pope , and confessed his faultes and was sent to Cardinall Caietan , before whome , he confeffed the Catholike faith ; and with great protestations submitted himselfe .

He was yet once againe cited to Rome , but he appealed to the future general Councell , protesting that he would not deminish the authority of the Pope , so that he be of a sound opinion , for that was his clause . He wrote vnto the Pope also praysing him , and dispraysing his Legate and officers , and laid all faults on others . Many giddy-headed people at this time ranne headlong after Luther , stared on him , flattered him , and encouraged him to higher matters . He writeth to the Emperour , to Knges , and to Princes , crying vpon them to reforme the Church , which phrase of speech pleased many , protesting that he would change nothing , for he liued as yet within his Couent , and saide Masse . The people applauded him on each side , which made him more proude and arrogant , insomuch as he would say , turne thine eyes towardes me Germany , I am sent to saue thee .

The first Clergie-man that euer followed Luther , was Carolastade Archdeacon of Wittenberg : This man and Luther disputed with D. Eckius a Prebend of Ingolstade , at Lipse before Duke George , brother to Fredericke Duke of Saxony ; and they both submitted their opinions to the Diuines of Erfor and Paris , but still reuolted againe . In this hoate conference , Luther burst forth into these speeches . This quarrell was not begunne for the honor of God , neyther shall it be ended by him . The Pope wrote againe to the Duke of Saxony , blaming him for protecting of Luther , but he sent him a milde answere , saying that his holines his Nuncio was of opinion , that Luther should not goe out of that coaste , for feare of scattering of Heresies else where . But indeed Luther had resolued , if he had beene driuen out of Saxony , to retire himselfe into Bohemia , yet feared he the Hussites , because he had affirmed them to be Heretikes . In fine , the Pope seing him so rebellious , and so turning in and out , excommunicated him by name , in Bulla Caena Domini . Who presently when he heard of it growing desperate , vomited out all his poyson , calling the Pope Ante-christ , and vnderstanding that his bookes were burned as hereticall , he in a rage at Wittenberge burned the bookes of the common Law , with the Bull of Leo. He cried out to the people , let vs wash our handes in the bloud of the Pope , of the Cardinals , and of al the Romish filth . So in the dsputation at Lipse when he was admonished to vse modesty in speech , and writings ; I will write ( said he ) other kinde of stuffe , if I knew that it would displease the Sea of Rome : Whilst they triumph ouer some heresie of mine , I will inuent new ( saith he ) in Praf . cap. Bab. He vsed still in speaking and writing , most filthy wordes and tearmes of ribaudry , and caused the Pope and Cardinals , to be pictured , and sette forth in diuers places , in most filthy and vgly shapes . He resolued forthwith to build a Religion of liberty , and to abandon Austerities , Celibates or single liues , Fastings , Chastities , and such like , and to giue euery man leaue to beloeue what him list : And so it should be most pleasing to flesh and bloud , and consequently , be easilie receaued of many . To this end he wrote that it was lawful to beleeue what he would ; that we were either predestinated , or reprobated , so as we could not doe withall : That euery Christian was a priest , and might preach the word of God .

The Emperor Charles came into Germany , before whom Luther was conuented , with letters of safe conduct ( this was at Worms ) where he behauing himselfe heretically , yet with great dissimulation , he was sent backe , and condemned by the Emperor for an Heretike : he retired himself into a castle called Alstat , belonging to the Duke of Saxony , yet with commandement , that he should keep himselfe secret , for feare of the Emperor . This he tearmed his Pathmos , here he wrote bookes sarsed with all manner of contumelies , and opprobrious speeches ; he called the vniuersity of Paris , which had condemned his doctrine , the vttermost hall of Ante-Christ , the back-dore of Hell . At this time at Wittenberge they beganne to assault the Masse , ( for Luther was yet in Friars habit , and said Masse still and to breake downe Images , which Luther vnderstanding , was very much offended with them . He did forbidde that eyther Aristotle , or Plato , should be taught in their vniuersities , or any thing but the Bible . Catolastade and Melancton his followers , were now become the one a ploughman , the other a Baker , for that they would liue by the sweat of their browes ; but Luther called them backe , and rebuked Carolastade for breaking Images , affirming , that no Image was forbidden in the Scriptures , but only of God : he translated the Bible into the German tongue which was presently burned in most places . There were noted only in the new Testament , 1400 places corrupted and falsified , yet notwithstanding , a Lutheran minister in Wittenberge , instituted a feastiuall day , and called it the translation of the Bible ; being the first Lutheran feastiuall day that euer was . And for al this , Luther altered the said Bible three times after , and changed many things of the first . Then did others leape out and make translations of their owne , as Zwinglius , whose version was by Luther condemned , yet still others made translations , to the number of 67. versions , one condemning anothers , and taking away , and putting in what them pleased ; yea , they rent out of the Bible whole bookes , which made plainely against their opinioms .

Carolastadius began to deny the reall presence of Christ , in the holy Sacrament , but Luther opposed himselfe against it , and reprehended him sharply , which made Carolastade to leaue Wittenberge ; but they two meeting in an Inne afterward , and Carolastade saying , that he durst defend his option by writing : Luther tooke to his purse , and gaue him a florence of gould , to doe so if he durst against him , which he tooke on that condition . So Luther bought the warres against the Sacramentaries , whereof afterwardes , he had his handes full ; he and Zwinglius brawled about the translation of the Bible , he renounced all generall Councels , and ancient Fathers , and would not endure the word Clergy . He permitted men to change their wiues , would haue no visible head of the Church ; he would gladly haue denyed the reall presence , but the words were so plaine he could not , as he . He caused Carolo stade to be banished : whilst Frederik Duke of Saxony he durst not alter the Masse , but he pulled out of the litanies , the name of the holy Trinity . He with Melancthon would haue abandoned all liberal arts . He could neuer endure the Zwinglians , nor Sacramentaries , but tearmed them Apostles of the Diuel ; Arians , Pelagians , &c. He did al that he could in despite of the Councell of Trent , and protested that he would oppose himselfe , against the doctrine it should set forth , bee what it will . He was both in doctrine and manners an enemy to good works , and taught that only faith was sufficient , which doctrine brought sorth fruits accordingly ; as for example , one of his Disciples a woman of Lipse a widow , by her owne sonne was gotten with childe , who when shee was great retired her selfe , and caused the child being a girle to be brought vp , her sonne ( the father ) not knowing of it ; when this girle was twelue years of age , the sonne father of it , married the same girle , which by this meanes was his sister , his daughter , and his wife ; his mother knowing all . This sinfull woman lying on her death-bedde , confesseth all to Luther , who with his schollers of Wittenberge pronounced , that the quietnes of this marriage ought not to be troubled , and that they must permitte the woman without other punishment , to goe to heauen with only faith . He stirred vp the common people to rebellion , foa which , many thonsands of them were slaine , and was the cause of the great warres of Germany , wherin was most cruell carnage , and slaughter . He liked faire women so well , as that espying a beautifull damsell , in the Dutches of Saxony her trayne , he protested that if all the Diuels of hell were such , he would gladly be amongst them , which speech the Dutchesse thought strange , to proceed out of the mouth of him , who preofossed himselfe to be the Reformer of the Christian world , but the Duke answered , that Luther was flesh and bloud as other men be : He made loue secretly to one Katherine Bore , a Nunne , but durst not marrie her as long as the Duke liued .

Yet Carolastade first of all Priests married a woman , not secretly , but openly ; and that with triumph . This wretched Priest ( as he himselfe saith ) was so enraged with lust , that he was like to lose his sences ; and at his marriage , was Masse song after a new fashion , and this collect was made and put in : God which after so long and wicked blinduesse of thy Priests , hast vouchsafed to giue such grace to blessed Andrew Carolastade , that he first of al not respecting the Popes lawe , durst enterprise to marry a wife , graunt we beseech thee , that all priests comming to their wittes , fallowing his steps , their concubines cast out or married , may be conuerted to the fellowship of a lawfull bed , through the Lord &c. Then followeth the prose . God in thy power , Andrew Carolastade doth exult & reioyce , coupled in mariage ; diuers others such like stuffe was thrust into that Masse which I omit , and ended with this collect : Let the misteries of the sacrament receiued , O Lord , succour vs , and as we reioyce in the connubial celebrity of Andrew Carolastade , so cause , we beseech thee , that marriages of priests may happily beginne through the whole world , more happily goe forward , and most happily ende , through the Lord &c. Many Fryars , Moncks and others followed this example of his , leaping out of the monasteries and cloisters , and got them wenches , and so became Gospellers ; some casting their Habites got great breeches , and short cloaks with swords by their sides , and preached in that attire , some in one colour , some in another , some of one Sect , some of another ; insomuch as almost euery day , you might see a new religion coyned ; but euerie one had his woman , or else no bargaine : Luther also , after the Duke was dead married his Nunne , and had by her three sonnes .

Many more thinges are recorded of this man , which are easily seene in diuers writers : These may suffice to giue the vnlearned Reader a taste of this Reformer ; and now you shal see what he lest to his followers .

CHAP. II. Of Lutheranisme .

FIrst then , the Churches of the Lutherans stand still as they did in the olde time , and the Cloisters for the most part in woods , and in desart places , as those of the order of S. Bennet , and of S. Bernard nothing defaced , ( except Images is some places , where Carolastadius came ) in such sort as a Catholike entring into the Lutheran Temples , will deeme that he is in Catholik churches . For there shal he see the quier separated from the body of the Church , but yet not altogether the same which was before . There is the great Altar still standing , the Crucifixe aboue the Images of the twelue Apostles , diuers Chappels and places of prayer , the font for Baptisme , in many churches are the Organs , Tapers , and other ornaments of the Catholike Church ; all in outward shewe haue the markes of the auncient Religion of their forefathers : In crosse high wayes the Crucifixe is to be seene as in Catholike time , which the Lutherans reuerence .

The people passing by litle Churches in the country , enter into them , to say their prayers before the Astar , they keepe their Chappels neate and fine , in good reparation , they neuer enter into their Temples ( for so they tearme them , and not Churches ) but they kneele downe , turning their faces towards the great Altar , they keep the shadowes of Bishops and Priests , yet haue they chaunged the names of them , in steed of Bishop , is the name Superintendent . This hath vnder him diuers parishes , and euery parish hath his Curate , whom they call in the Germaine tongue Pfather , and Deacons in their language called Helffers : The Superintendent hath eyther some reuennewes , or else is maintained by publike contribution .

But to know the diuers fashions of Lutherans , it is first to be vnderstoode , that Luthers Sect is deuided into two principal Factions : The one is called the Confession of Ausburge made by Melancthon , Anno 1530 , and presented to the Emperour : The other is the Interim , which was a prouision made , Anno 1584. vntil the Councell had determined matters of Religion , which Interim after tooke force , and was reciued in Soxony , and in diuers Emperiall townes , as in Hamburge , Lubecke , Luneburg , Magdeburg , Hall , Noremberge , in the Marquisate of Brandeburg , and in some other places . The book of this Interim in the German tongue is called Rijrchenordming , that is , the ordinance of the Church , wherein are written the formes and ceremonies of their Masses , made of an newe fashion , yet retaining many things of antiquity , as Kyrie eleison , Alleluia , and Dominus vobiscum . The Pfather comming neere the Altar , saith Confiteor , with other prayers as the Catholike priest doth , and consecrateth , and communicateth as he doth , but mingleth withal diuers prayers in the vulgar tongue , and also reciteth the gospell in the same . They doe not eleuate , for that they think the body of Christ to be present there to be eaten , and not to be adored but only of the receauer ; yet many of that Sect hold it as a thing indifferent , whether it be eleuated or no , and so was it left in a Sinode by the Lutherans of Denmark in Norway , 1537. and in another , 1549. and allowed by Pomeran and Camerarius . The Lutheran priest when he saith Masse is vested with a Surplesse , and with a Coape or Vestment , and hath two Deacons assisting him , the one readeth the epistle , the other the gospel ; in some places in latin , and in others in the vulgar tongue : comming to the consecration , and to other ceremonies , he reciteth in his language the same wordes that the Catholike priest doth , he holdeth the Hoast , and the Chalice as he doth , the Altar is prepared , and Tapers burning vpon it , as amongst Catholikes : Their Chalices are all of massiue gould , and that great ones yea in country Churches . The Pfather ending his collects , turneth towards the people & blesseth them , making the signe of the Crosse , vnto which all bow themselues kneeling .

They say but one Masse in one Church on a day , those who wil receiue come neere to the Altar , and kneele as Catholiks doe , the priest so vested turneth giueth benediction , and putteth the Hoast into the receiuers mouth , as it is to be seene in Saxony , and else where : Then the Deacon giueth the Chalice with wine consecrated . They neuer say Masse but some communicate , for Luther abandoned all priuate Masses , so he tearmed them . They say their euensong in the latine tongue , answering one another , after the manner of Catholikes : Thus much of the Lutheran Interimists .

They which follow the Confession of Ansburg , haue not their Mosse as the Interimists haue : Their Temples are in the same manner as the others , their Pfather or Helffer , mounteth into the pulpit with his Surplesse , and there preacheth , hauing done he goeth downe , & before the Altar he saith diuers prayers alone , after , turning towardes the people , he prayeth with a loud voice , and so saith a kinde of Masse , although not with such ceremonies and ornaments , as the Interimists vse , for he hath neyther Coape nor Vestment , and he readeth the epistle and gospel himselfe . Hauing ended the collects , he rehearseth the institution of the Supper , in the vulgartongue , and consecreteth the Hoasts ; they who will communicate come before the Altar , the Superintendent or pfather , taketh the paten of gould in his hands , on which are the little Hoasts consecrated , and making the signe of the Crosse , putteth them into the receiuers mouths , with such words as the Catholikes doe . After him followeth the Deacon with the Chalice , and giueth to euery one saying take , drink , this is the true bloud of Iesus Christ , wich was shed for thee . They who receane , pray before and after by themselues as Catholiks doe : the actions and benedictions being ended , euery one goeth his way . When solemne feasts draw nigh , the Preachers exhort the people to confesse , and to receiue , so Luther ordained . Vpon the euen of the feastiuall day the Churches are open , and the Superintendent , and the Helffers , are neere the Altars where they heare Confessions : Those who come to confesse drawe neere , and standing vpright doe speake to the Helffer : If they desire to be instructed , three or foure come at once : If any haue his conscience burdened , he confesseth secretly , demaundeth pardon of God , and receiueth absolution . In many places they kneele , and none are married , but such as goe to confession , and receiue the Sacrament : When one is sicke , he sendeth for the Pfather , who goeth with an Hoast not consecrated , he caufeth all to goe out of the sicke man his chamber , and then exhorreth him to discharge his conscience by confession , which done , he giueth him absolution , making the signe of the Crosse vpon his head , then there is a napkin spread vpon a table , on which he setteth the Chalice , and Paten , and haning rehearsed the wordes of the institution , he consecrateth the bread and wine : After the confession of the sicke man , the people come in againe and kneele all there , and then the Pfather taketh the Hoast , with the consecrated Chalice , and giueth them to the sicke man , as he doth in the Church ,

Yet doe not all keepe their ordinances so strictly , as they are set downe , by reason that euery man may belecue what he will : For one said in giuing the Sacrament , drinke , and eate , and doe not forget thy God : some others wil say , take eate , and remember the Lord : other say only a Pater noster : another hauing forgotten his Chalice , and not finding a glasse , tooke a pottage dish out of the kitchin , powred the wine into it , and giuing it to the sicke man , said , take and drinke this dish of the new Testament in forgiuenes of sins . They neuer reserue consecrated Hoasts , for Luther taught directly against all antiquity , that out of the Communion , Christs body was not there .

In some places they say their euensong as the Interimists doe , they sing them euery saterday , and haue the Organs answering , as the Catholikes haue , and singing boyes which sing psalmes , and notes . The bels found at the dawning of the day , at noone , and at night , as among Catholikes . Yet is there difference amongst them in diuers places , for some doe these aforesaid thinges in one manner , some in another . In the Marquesse of Brandebutge his Chappell , after euerie psalme , in liewe of Gloria Patri , &c. ( which Luther put away ) they discharged their pistols , which made an hideous noise with fire and smoake . Both the Interimists , and Confessionists solemnize feastes , they highlie esteeme Maundie thursday , on which day they confesse and receiue , and doe celebrate with religious reuerence good friday . Aboue all , they keepe holy the feasts of the blessed virgin Mary , of the Apostles and Martirs , as Catholikes doe : And no other difference is seene , but that the Catholikes obserue the Gregorian Calendar , and they the olde vse ; yet confessing that the reformation is right . This is to be seene in Ausburg , Spires , Wormes , Franckforte , Ratisbone , and in other places without any contention at all . They bring their children to the Fonts to be christened , which were In ancient time , and after the P father hath recited the institution of Baptisme , he absolueth the infant from originall sinne , coniureth the Diuell to leaue this newe Christian which he baptiseth , making three times the signe of the Crosse ; and other thinges after the Catholike fashion . They obserue also the Catholike ceremonies in Marriage , for the most part they abstaine from flesh on Fridayes , Saterdayes , and in Lent , their Churchyardes are esteemed holy , and when one is dead , there commeth singers with boyes kept for that purpose , which goe before the Corps , and sing psalmes in the vulgar tongue all the way , and in the Church : Manie of them beleeue that there is Purgatòry , and doe pray for the dead : The Ecclesiasticall persons in Emperiall Citties enjoy their reuenues , and so doe the Religious also .

But the Religious , which are in Lutherane Dutchies and Countries haue beene banished , and poore children are put in their places , and brought vp in learning : Ecclesiasticall persons amongst them , differ in habit from the Laytie : The Confessionists are in many Emperial townes , as in Ausburg , Vlmes Dingnelspil , Bibrace , Norlingen Hedpron , in Colmar , Strausburg , Haganan , Wisemburge , Landan , Spires , Wormes , Oppenheny , and Franckeforte . There be diuers Princes , as the Duke of Wittenberg , the Lantgraue of Hesse , the Marquesse of Brandeburg , and other Counts and Lords which follow the Confession of Ausburge , with an oath to admit no other Religion in their Territories .

When all the Country was in an vproare about these new Sects , many Sectaries met together at Spires , and although they were of different opinions , yet joyned they in league against the Catholike Church , and against the Emperor , protesting that they would dye in their opinions ; And of this protestation they were tearmed Protestans ; but this league was afterwards more established at Smalcade .

See here many auncient ceremonies yet amongst the Lutherans , which make vp a just beard in the face of the eldest brother Lutheranisme : Now to Iohn Caluin .

CHAP. III. What manner of man Iohn Caluin was .

HE was borne at Noyon in Picardy in Fraunce the tenth of Iuly , Anno 1509. His name indeed was Iohn Chaunie , sonne of Gerard Chaunie , and of Iane France : But as Luther chaunged his name , so did he , and called himselfe Caluin ; and because the Anagramme of his name maketh Lucian , he would be called Alcuin , who was the learned master of Charles the great . After his infancy , in some forte bestowed in learning sitte for that age , he was sent to Orleans , and after that to Bourges , to study the ciuill Law ; and there meeting with one Melchior Wolmer a Germane , the greeke Reader , was by him drawne to the study of Diuinity , for that he espied a ready wit in him ; and Melchior himselfe was sectetly a Lutheran , but outwardly shewed himselfe a Catholike : He opened vnto Caluin the secrets of Luther his Sect. After some time spent with Wolmer , of whom he learned Luther his Religion , and some skill in the Greek tongue , he left the Vniuersitie , and returned to Noyon , where his father had prouided for him a Prebend , & a Cure in the country : Yet Wolmer solicited him still by letters to become a Lutheran , yea , after that hee was returned into Germany . But he went from Noyon to Paris , where he began secretly to teach his owne opinions , and being suspected he went to Angolesme , where he was maintayned for the space of three years , by one Tillet curat of Claixe , & Canon of Angolesme , to whom he did read greeke : And there it was said , and diuers haue written it , that he was accused & conuicted of a most filthy crime . Here he beganne to frame his Institutions , and did read the same to diuers secretlie where he durst ; he was abstinent and of a sharp wit : but he abstayned ( as himselfe confessed ) not for cause of Religion , but because his stomacke was weake , and he was subiect to the Megreame . He would not as Luther his custome was to doe , vomitte out all that he thought , but kept still some things to himselfe , outwardly shewing himselfe otherwise then he was within ; his words were few , and he giuen to be solitary , for naturally he was Melancholike , opening himselfe to few , and not delighting in company , and euer had in his mouth , Nunquam minus solus , quam cum solus : That he was neuer lesse alone , then when he was alone . At Angolesme in Tillet , his Gallery were some 3000. books and manuscripts , which Caluin still turned ouer in such retired sort , as his chiefest friends could hardly come to the speach of him . Luther was cloquent and had a great gift in speaking , and preaching ; but Caluin contrary was very silly in his sermons , & had neither grace nor action in the pulpit , so asneuer any auditor was moued , but only by the name of Caluin : he in his speech so vnpleasing , and tedious with his quidmoror cómon in his mouth . He was more skilfull in latin then Luther was . he would often say , that Luther had done nothing worth a button , and that Christendome was no more beholding to him , then a poore trauailer is obliged to one that sheweth him his way a farre of ; that it was to no purpose to follow his steppes , which was ( said he ) to be halfe a Papist ; but better it wer to build the Church altogether new : for he scorned to be any mans Disctple . Dispite and desperation , made Luther an Arch-Sectary ; and the desire of glory and estimation , made Caluin another author of worse Heresies : for this he writeth of himself . All who desired pure doctrine came to me to learne , although I my selfe had but new begun , Prafat , in Psal He called himselfe a Ptophet , and spake and wrote in his owne praise , and was very eloquent in his mother tongue , which caused many vnlearned to reade his bookes with delight . He vsed most dispitefull , and reprochfull wordes against Kings , and Princes , calling them brute beasts , fooles , and asses . If they band against God ( that is to say , against his sect ) saith hee , wee ought rather to spit in their faces , then to obey them , in 6. Daniell , hee would endure no man , except he submitted himselfe to him . Wolmar , who first founded the disposition of his wit , writeth thus of him , to Farell his associate , in the conquest of Geneua : I feare not so much ( saith he ) the ouer-thwartnesse of his wit , for this vice is sit to aduance our affaires , to make him a stout defender of our opinions , for he wil not so easily be catched but that he will be able to entrap our aduersaries . This letter , caused great stirre betwixt him , and one Christian , a Minister of Poytiers , who scattered copies of it , by reason of the emulation which was between him and Caluin : Whilst he stayed in Angolesme , he sayned himselfe to bee a Catholike , and said , in conference with his companions , that what he said , he did it but by way of disputation , to finde out the truth . He passed from thence into Germany , and tooke Geneua in his way , and saw many which were reuolted , and amongst them Bucer , who brought him to Erasmus Roterodamus ( who then did but cry ayme ) and the same Erasmus , hauing sounded Caluin , said to Bucer , pointing at him : I see a great plague spring in the Church . Caluin returneth againe into France to Poytiers , where he got some disciples , and he told them , that indeed Luther had found out but a litle sparke of light , which gaue a little ayme a-farre off , to those who trauayled in the dead time of the night , to giue them some small glimmering of their iourney . But to come to light indeede , the Masse must be altogether abolished , and the supper put in place thereof , where Christ ( said hee , to vnite the Lutheranes , and the Zwinglians ) is really , but eaten spiritually , and by faith only ; that the communion of the materiall flesh , might enter into the soule by the irradiation of the holy Ghost . But diuers of his disciples oppugned this assertion , and inuented new . When he had some few disciples , he sent them abroad with new names ; for one that was Reader in a Hall of the Institutes of law , they called Monsieur le Minister . And although the name ( Minister ) be a generall name for Seruiteurs in the Church , and in the cómonwealth , yet Caluin first appropriated it to the Pastors and Teachers of his new Church ; and yet before it was neuer proper to any order or kinde of men of religion . Another was called the Gatherer : afterward , when their number increased , they ordayned Ministers , Carders of wooll , Fullers , Drapers , Embroderers , and other artificers ; which secretly preached ; there was hardly to be found amongst them , no not in the yeare 1540 any learned man . He raysed great stirs at Geneua , but after many tumults hee became their chiefe Pastor , where he changed all , and iudging criminall causes . He marryed the Widdow of Iohn Estordeur borne in Liege , in religion an Anabaptist , which left that sect and became of Caluins religion ; shee was called Idelette de Bure , a name not much differing from Luthers name : He neuer had child by her , although shee were yong and beautifull , he married his brother Anthony Caluin , to the daughter of Nicholas de Fer , who at Antwerp had played such prancks , as hee was glad to runne away , and to shrowde himselfe at Geneua ( which town was then become the receptacle of bankrupts , whore-mongers , murderers , and of all debauched people which flocked thither out of diuers countries , and became of Caluins religion , ) Hee made his brother a booke-seller , that he might disperse his bookes . But his daughter being taken in adultery , and deliuered to the Bonreau to be whipped , and catted , shamed her vncle Iohn so , that he could scarce looke vp or behould the people , to whome he deliuered this new gospell . He sent some few of his disciples into America , to preach his gospel there , because he would seeme to be as zealous in planting , as the Catholiks were known to be : But by that time they came there , their prouision of wine wasall spent , and not knowing how to minister their communion for want of wine , they sent to their master Caluin to know his opinion , who answered , that being constrained by necessity , they might vse in stead of wine , any other kind of drink , vsed in that part of the world : Beza was of the same opinion , and so was Luther who taught also , that for want of water , they might baptize in Ale , Beere , or Milke . Thus he taught what him best pleased , and his resolution to his followers was an Oracle : he liued and dominiered much at Geneua , where he ended his life most miserably , being eaten with vermin to death , as histories doe record .

CHAP. IIII. What religion Caluin left to his followers .

HE allowed of no Image at all for Religious vse , turning away the word Idol in the Bible , into the word Image , yet did he reserue the picture of the Diuell . He allowed of no feast day , but the seauenth day , which they tearme the Saboath ; his church indeed was a long time without forme , or fashion , for euery one vsed his owne manner , some in one fort and some in another ; yet they al tearmed themselues the faithfull children of Christ . They cannot endure the signe of the Crosse , nor Altars , nor any honor to the name of Iesus , nor fasting daies , nor chalices , but in their communion they vse glasses . They will haue no head of their Church , but in steed of Bishoppes and Priests , they haue them whome they tearme a name , not known in that sence to antiquity : Their ecclesiasticall officers are deuided into Ministers , Auncients , or Watchmen and Deacons . In the ordinances of Geneua , there was a fourth kinde , to wit Doctors , but that continued but a smal space : Their Ministers dot preach , administer their Sacraments , and haue soueraigne authority . When one will bea Minister , he is proposed to the Consistory , in the presence of the Minister , and Auncients , ( these be ignorant artizans ) afterward he is admitted to triall , where a chapter is assigned him to discourse vpon , in the vulgar tongue ; he must in no case alleadge any thing in latin in sermons : But one chiefe point is , that he be well able to raile against the Pope and Catholike religion , as one of them began his sermon in this manner . The great locke-master ( meaning the Pope ) brought vp and fedde fat in the ki●●hin of Sathan &c. which the audience applauding the preacher for his conceirs was much commended . The minister to be after trial in this sort , is by the President of the assembly ( hauing taken suffrages ) called in , who telleth him his faults and wants , and also commendeth something in him : Then he giueth him his hand of association , and others doe the like making signes of amity , and ciuility ; and this is all their making of Ministers . Yet before he be a receaued Minister , some church or congregation must make meanes to haue him , and thither he goeth , and if the people like of him , three or foure Ministers assemble , and receaue him into the Ministery , and for their brother and companion , after that he hath subscribed to the confession of their faith , his auditors maintayne him , but his pension thirty pounds , or forty pounds a yeare at the most , if he be vnmarried , if married , he may haue two hundred crownes pension : some would haue had them to serue without any wages at all , as the Anabaptists doe .

If he which is called to the Ministery hath bin a Monke , Friar , Priest , or such like , he must attend a while , vntill he haue disgorged his Monkery ( as they tearme it : ) They are alwaies jelous of such persons ; first they disgrade them , dismonke them , and then cal them to the Ministery . In disgrading them they vse this ceremony , the party putteth off his habit , cursing him who vested him therewith , then treadeth he it vuder his feete or renteth it : some of them dye their habit to make coates for their woemen , or children .

If he be not married before , he taketh a woman , and then they account him their owne sure ; for you seldome or neuer shall finde any such , which lefte not his calling by the motion of the flesh , and not induced by the spirit : If any one would liue a single life , they cry our presently with Luther , that such are not exempt from badde . Thus much for their Ministery ; yet he who is a Lord of Fee , if he think him selfe able and sufficient , without any more adoe , may goe vp into the pulpit , and teach subiects -

They now and then leaue the Midistery , and become Aduocates , Phisitions , and School emasters ; for they haue many occasions of chaunges , as want of maintenance , the auditors liking another better then their owne , with many such like : By the ordinances of Geneua , no Minister which hath beene a Religious man , can be President in their Nationall Sinodes .

The Auncients watch and marke if any of theirs commit any scandall , especially if they goe to Masse , or to the Iesuites : and they report the same to the Consistory . The Auncients and Ouerseers are much like , yet there is some difference , for the Ouerseers are Assistants or Councellors to the Ministers , and much inferior to them ; they are indeed , as it were Beadles : The Ancients may depose the Ministers , or silence them , vntill the next Colloque , or Sinode .

The Deacons keepe the purse for the poore , they gather the Ministers pension , visite the sicke , make Collections among the people , to defray common charges of warre , or of other affaires : They allure such as can beare Armes , & bring their names to the Consistory . These Deacons serue al turns , they be Porters , Readers , Seruants to the Consistory , Asistants to the Ministers in the Supper , and distribute the glasses : their Chaunters beginne their psalmes , Aduertisers , as Apparitors who summon the accused to appeare .

The Ministers , Ancients , & Ouerseers , holde Colloques , which are voluntary assemblies of Ministers , three or foure times a yeare , & euery Minister hath his Ancient , where they dispute of doctrine , and appease disorders , and take notice of memorable matters to be related to the Sinode ; for the Sinode determinethal , being diuided into Prouincial , and Nationall , for generall they can haue none : For Lutheranisme hath no participation with them ; neither in Faith , Religion , nor Ceremonies , no more hath Anabaptisme , nor Angliansme . In the Prouinciall Sinodes which are kept yearely , they choose one whom they call a Moderator , and he is President of the Sinode .

The natural Sinode , is euery second or third yeare , where euery Prouince hath his Minister , and Deputy : that is their highest Court.

Their Consistory is composed of al sortes of persons , Souldiers , Cittizens , Courtiers , Artizans , and of the basest sorte of people , which many found fault with ; but Caluin would haue it so . In these assemblies , seauen at the least must judge cases concerning the soule , for they may excommunicate any of their Sect , be he Kinge or Kezar , bannish him out of their assemblies , and depriue him of Sacraments .

This Consistory , is kept in the Ministers howse who presideth , or in their Temple .

The Auncients prye into the actions of their neighbours , and informe against them , and then the Aduertiser is sent to summon the accused : If he appeare not , he is called by the Minister to the sermon , and after three times warning , is cut off from their Supper . If he appeare , he is brought into the Consistory , where he standeth bare-headed , and is forced to aske pardon , sometimes there , & sometimes publikely at the sermon , where his fault before vnknown , is made publike . If any haue daunced , they are greately punished for it , and for curling their haire , and for such like : If it be a personage of high degree , they conceale the crime , but declare publikely , that such a person hath made satisfaction for his faulte . But by this meanes many offendors knowne to fewe , come to open reproache , and many lose their good name , which they had before . In very deed those Consistories and Sinodes are plaine instruments and trumpets of warre ; for they wil commaund Kings and Princes : And to this end , Beza wrote to the Ministers in Fraunce , that they should not receaue into their Citties , Captaynes and officers in warre , but such as were chosen and approued by their Consistories and Sinods .

They haue ruinated Churches where they could preuaile , and beaten them downe to the ground , and they exercise their Sect in vaste places of townes , in barnes without any decking or hanging at all ; for they abhorre the Churches of Christians , and wil doe no exercise of Religion in them , but downe they must , if it lieth in their power : In other places , they make stables for horses , or ware-howses for Merchants of goodly Churches . In their new Temples they haue benches , as in Colledges , for people to sit on : There they meeting salute one another , especially the delicate dames , for other reuerence there is none to be done , neyther to God , to Angel , nor to Saint ; no body knecleth , for then they cry out a Papist : Whilest there they expect the Ministers comming , some Brother or Cobler mounteth vp in his artizans araye , and readeth to them a chapter of the Bible , or an homely of Iohn Caluin .

The Minister commeth in a gown sometimes black , sometimes of other colour , sometimes in his cloake , with a hat of the common fashion . The Minister or Preacher to the sister of Henry the fourth King of France and Nauarre , neuer came to her , but with his sword by his side , & in a blew or violet cloake , with dublet and breeches of yellow chamlet , & one of them preached in a garden , and made his pulpit the pommell of his sworde sticking in the ground , sometimes they preached booted and spurred : And all this after , they haue had liberty of conscience , for otherwise it might be excused ; Yea. Anno 1599. the Minister of Cottendiere preached in a sute of ginger colour , with his sword and dagger at his side .

The Minister mounted into his chaire , maketh his prayer for all , they some standing , some sitting , here and there some kneeling , or as they please : the prayer is very short , some twenty lines .

Then he preacheth a sermon of some psalme in the vulgar tongue , with a lowde voice , al the people follow , men , women , children , and seruants , some high , some lowe , some in tune , some out of tune , with great confusion , without order or harmony . Then falleth he to his sermon , which being ended , he prayeth againe very briefely , and then they sing the section of the psalme out to the end . You shal neuer see any among them , lift vp their hands or eies to ward Heauen , not neuer knocke their breaste , nor sigh ; the most part among them will neuer kneele : In briefe , there shalt thou see no more deuotion , then is at a stage-play .

They haue two Sacraments , Baptisme , and the Supper . They baptize not by the ordinance of Geneua , but at the preaching so amongst them : If they dye without baptisme , they are saued . At baptisme , some infants are holden in the armes of their godmothers , some lie in their cradles , and after the Minister hath rehearsed certaine words , he throweth a litle water vpon the childes face , and saith , I baptize thee &c. As for godfathers , or godmothers , they litle regarde them : and they admit father and mother in steade of them . They giue them newe names , but no names of Idolators ( as they tearme them ) but rather names of Iewes , and of such as were neuer Catholikes , but not the names of Saints .

Their Supper they celebrate foure times in the yeare , they goe to it as to a sermon , without any preparation ; the Minister hauing ended his preaching , commeth downe , and presenteth himselfe before the table , couered with a napkin ; vppon the table , there is a bason full of common bread , cut in peeces , and botles and glasses standing : The Minister taketh a peece of bread and giveth another to the chiefe of the Consistory , some saying one sort of words , and some another . The common people kisse the Minister his hand in receiuing bread of him , but if they are persons of account , the Minister kisseth the bread before he giue it to them . The Deacon giueth drink in a glasse to the Minister , after , others drink : They kneele not at all , but eate it either standing or walking ; they neuer goe to the sicke with it , nor celebrate it , but in the assemblies .

Marriage amongst them is no Sacrament : They who are to be married , present themselues at the preaching , and there without ring , prayer , benediction , or any ceremony at all , they are espowsed : No degrees are excepted , but brother , sister , father , mother , diuersity of religion , and fornication , with them dissolueth the bond of marriage . If a Monke or a Friar apostate marrie a woman , and after leauing her , returne to his Monastery againe , shee by the authority of the Magistrate may marrie another . If a man marrie a woman , and shee proue with childe by another man , he may forsake her , and marry another . : If a woman will sweare that shee sawe not her husband for the space of a yeare , nor knoweth not where he is , shee may marry another .

There is nothing that hath drawne multitudes to be of therir Sects so much , as the singing of their psalmes , in such variable and delightfull tunes : There the souldier singeth in warre , the artizans at their worke , wenches spinning , and sewing , apprentises in their shoppes , and wayfaring men in their trauaile , litle knowing ( God wotte ) what a serpent lyeth hidden vnder these sweete-flowers , what venome is in this pleasant liquor , and what distraction is in this Sirens songe : this craft and sbutilty did olde Heretikes vse . These diuine psalmes are by them transported out of the Church , into the dwelling howse , out of the Quire into the shoppe , and as absurd it is for a shoomaker sowing his shooe , to sing one of these psalms , as it is to sing Misereremei . or Deprefundis . in his petitions to God Almightie .

These Rithmes or Rimes in the vulgar , are rather Bezaes ballads , and Marots muses , then psalmes of Dauid ; for they vagary and goe out at their pleasute , from faithfull translation and from the sence of the holy Ghost , to make vp their Rime : For it was hard , yea impossible , to fall right vpon the feete of the Hebraicall poesie , being full of allegories and figures . They seing this absurdity confuted in an assembly at Mountpeliere , put the psalmes into prose , and so to stoppe the mouth of Papists , by singing them in the olde tune , and to leaue of Bezaes and Marots Rimes ; but for feare of condemning their former inuention , they left the matter vndecided . Marot in the very first psalme , inueraeth the sence of the Prophet : Their Rimes indeed , are rather Paraphrases of their owne braine , than the text of Scripture , and so are nothing else but the ballads of Beza , and of Marot . As for Marot he was a wanton Courtier , a Poet , and a Musition , altogether vnlearned but in the mother tongue ; a man in regard of his ignorance and lose life , most vnfit to medle in such diuine matters , or affaires . At the first they were taken but for ballads , and diuers sung them to what tune they liked best , some in hunting and hauking , some in other exercises , but they were not sung at sermons : In the end Marot fledde to Geneua , and there made vp some fifty psalmicall ballads : But continuing his lose life , and it being known that he had debaunched his hostesse , for the which he was openly whipped , he fled from thence into Pyemont & there he died ; after whose death Beza made vp the rest of the Psalmical ballads , and Caluin caused musitions to put ditties and tunes vnto them , wanton , light , and whatsocuer was delightful . In the yeare 1553 , they ordayned that they should be sung in their Assemblles by sections : This singing of ballads , is the only principall office , and ordinary exercise of their Religion ; and what had they before .

When any one dyeth he is put in a sheet , and without ceremony pompe , or prayer , he is carried by twoo poore fellowes vnto the fieldes , or ditch , which the magistrate hath appointed for that purpose : There must be no weeping , lamenting , nor sadnes at all , nor signe of Christianity .

The minister goeth not with the corps , nor hath any thing there to doe , but if it be a person of account , the minister perhaps will accompany them as a priuate friend , but not as a Pastor : In this busines no body must pray , for feare of being accoumed a Papist . Behould Caluinisme the second brother without a beard , that is without any ceremony at al , no , he renounceth al as you see euen at his death : and so let him be buried . Geneua is the chiefe seate of the Caluinists , and they are in the Palsgraue his country , but jarring in some pointes about their Supper . There are many of them in Fraunce , but they haue no exercise of their Sect in Citties and Port-townes , except in Rochell , and some few besides . There they call themselues bretheren of the Religion reformed , but ordinarily they be called Hugonots : There be some of them scattered in other parts of Germany , and in other countries , as also in great Brittaine ; but there they haue no liberty , nor free exercise of their Religion .

CHAP. V. Of Anabaptists .

BAlthazar Hubincer learned the doctrine of the Anabaptists first of Luther , and was burned for the same : He would not content himselfe with Luther his Sect , but broached Anabaptisme in Morauia ; of the same faction was Thomas Muncer an apostata Priest , disciple of Carolastade , Nicholas Starke was another ; these drewe their doctrine out of Luther his bookes : They faigned that the Angell Gabriell appeared to them , and reuealed their Religion .

Muncer cried out against Catholikes and Lutherans , he made shew to detest vices were they neuer so smale , and exhorted his followers to fastings , prayers , and to austerities to chastise the flesh . Menna another of the same Sect , called Luthers doctrine carnall , dissolute , and more impious then the Religion of Turks and Tartars . This Muncer made shew of wonderfull simplicity , not only in his preachings but also in his cerriage , in his atire , and manner of life ; he often faigned to be in meditation , as in an extasie , and after tolde meruailous visions , as though he had talked with God , his his prayer was this , lifting vp his eies towards Heauen : Father , powre into my soule a zealous desire of thy justice , which if thou doe not I will deny thee , and al thine Apostles : the like did many others his companions . He taught that al were bretheren as children of a damme , and that it was against reason that some should starue , whilest others swimmed in wealth , and that the Apostles had nothing of thrir own , but al was common : This doctrine drew infinite numbers of people , and caused straunge commotions , seditions , and wars . Some counterfeired miracles , and some sodainely could read , which knew no letter in the booke before ; who comming againe to be Catholikes , lost their skil in reading , This Muncer afterwards was put to death , who tooke it patiently , and with wonderfull courage , and exhorted Princes to read the Bible , and to vnderstand the word of God .

After this mans death , they made themselues a King , and Prophets , who tooke vpon them , to inspire the holy Ghost into others ; but they were after taken and suffered death .

CHAP. VI. What Anbaptisme is .

THey first holde as all Heretiks haue done , that nothing is to be beleeued , but what is expresly set downe in the Bible , and by that they proue what they will , as the Lutheran doth , who taketh in hand to prooue by Scripture , that drunkennes pleaseth God . In a booke printed at Lipse , and dedicated to the Countesse of Mansfield , they affirme , that there is no true Church but theirs ; when they will choose their Pastours , they assemble the people , and the most auncient sheweth the necessity of such a flocke vnprouided : euery one giueth his voice for the election , and vpon whome the lotte falleth , he taketh an oath to gouerne and rule well the flocke . This new dignity giueth the Pastor neither title nor degree , for being a craftsman , he carryeth the marks and habits of his trade , and hath no shewe at all of a Pastour ; they haue Deacons also in the same fashion , they haue no pension or wages , but liue by their labors as others doe , & from the pulpit they goe to the plough or cart , or to their worke , according to their trade . They wil medle with no churches nor temples , but make their assemblies in howses , as is to be seene et Flushing , Midleboroug , Dansieke , Camfer , Amsterdam , and in other partes of the lowe Countries . They come not where Catholiks or Lutherans doe gouerne , but are in Friseland , Westfalia , Prussia , Silesia , Morauia , in some parts of Bohemia , and in some places belonging to the King of Poland .

They baptize none , vntill they come to the yeares of discretion , and if any come to be of their Sect , who was baptized when he was a child , they christen him againe , and of this they take their name . They cannot endure the Masse , but content themselues with prayer and preaching , they beleeue not Purgatory , neither doe they pray to Saintes , : they haue no Images or signe of the Crosse , neither doe they any reuerence at the name of Iesus . They teach that no man ought to be forced for his faith , but that euery one must be free in such thinges : They beleeue and celebrate the Supper as the Caluinistes doe , for the most parte , but these receiue standing only , and carry it to the sicke , but they neuer singe psalme , ballad , not any song .

When any man or woman commeth to be baptized , he presenteth himselfe to the assembly , and vpon his knees he desireth it , and giueth testimony of his faith : and if he be a magistrate , he must forgoe his office . If they knewe him to be of good life , the Pastor casteth water vpon his head , saying , I baptize thee in the name of the Father , and of the Sonne , and of the holy Ghost , without anything else .

They outwardly shew great piety and zeale of Religion , and euery one assureth himselfe that he hath the holy Ghost , and that he doth not sinne ; and indeed in their negotiations and worldly businesse , what iniury soeuer is offered vnto them , you shall neuer see them passionate or in choller , but alwaies milde and quiet , and most bould and constant in their profession .

They perswade themselues that they see many visions , and that the spirit reuealeth vnto them things to come : but how often haue they beene deceaued . Iohn of Lerden their first King , and second prophet , foresawe that he should be the Emperour of the world ; but he was soone dispatched by the hangman . A woman prisoner at Basill , prophesied that shee should liue without meate , which shee did nine dayes together , but dyed the tenth day . Many times they haue fore-tould the day of judgement , and haue expected it lying in the colde night vpon rockes , with a white sheet about them , waiting for Christ his comming . A yonge woman amongst them married to a Monke , being so poore that they had not bread to put in their mouths , shee had a reuelation that shee should inuite her friendes and neighbours to a feaste , with promise that nothing should be wanting ; shee did so , and many came inuited , all ranne after to see the miracle : Shee borrowed many tables , at which the guests were placed , expecting their victuals , shee willed them to haue patience a while , and they should see Angels bring meate abundantly from Heauen ; shee prayed with sighes and sobs euen vntill night , but nothing came , which made her guests in a furie halfe famished , to goe home in haste to get some victuals . Hoffinan their great preacher , taught them to suffer wrongs without murmuring , not to defend themselues , hut to endure all for the honor of God , to doe good for euill , to beare no armes , nor vse any words , or weapon , but only prayers . They apprehend no malefactor , they will be no magistrates , they say that their Pastors and assemblies suffice for al. They detest swearing more then any thing in the world ; yea , in courts or before Iudges . They can abide no Images , and when one dieth , he is carried without pompe or ceremony , and buried in the Church-yard amongst other Sectaries .

This Sect is diuided into many petite Sectes , and one amongst another . So as if an Anabaptist of Sueuia , or Morauia , come into Holland , he cannot bee admitted into their Synagogue , except he will be baptized againe . The principall Sects amongst them are Apostoliques , which say that they liue as the Apostles did , these haue all their goods in common . In Morauia are many thousands of this sect , none hath any goods , or possessions , they til the ground for others , and haue trades , but all haue equall profit , none can bee of their Religion but such as will labour , they get much and spend little , which causeth them to maintayne themselues well .

They haue ouer-seers , which see , that euery one hath what he needeth . They haue besides spirituall Fathers , which instruct them in Religion , and reade the prayers in their assemblies . Whilest the Father readeth with a lowd voyce , houlding his hands together , the rest sigh , ioyning their hands , but speaking no word . Then they departe euery one to his worke . They haue no other preaching , nor other kinde of prayer . They celebrate their Supper twice in the yeare , and men and women sit at it pell mel , inuiting one another to eate with great modesty . They vse also great temperance in their houses , for sitting downe at table , they remayne almost a quarter of an houre with their hands ioyned against their mouth , not speaking a word , but doe meditate and pray by hart , whilst they eate they haue an old Archimandrite , which marketh them without speaking any word , when they haue eaten they returne in great silence to their labours . At worke you shall see thirty or forty together , and neuer speake word one to another . In all their doings they greatly obserue cleanlynesse , and silence . To be briefe , they liue much like vnto well ordered religious persons .

They obserue no feast dayes , they haue their Bible curtaild at their pleasure , and are very skilfull in the Text , expounding it most commonly after the Letter , and their own braine . They will not dispute , nor reason of Religion .

There are other Anabaptists termed pure , which say they are without sinne , and therefore put out of our Lords prayer , forgiue vs our sinnes ; and holde that Christians after baptisme cannot committe sinne .

There are besides these the free anabaptists , which will not pay tribute , nor obey Princes : These affirme marriage to be spirituall , and haue their woemen in common , and say it is the motion of Gods spirit . Feliciatus Capitonus recordeth , howe one of these bretheren entring into his friendes howse , tolde him that the holy spirit commaunded him to lie with his wife , to which he accorded , but afterwardes seing his daughter faire and young , no said he to the wife , the spirit saith I must lie with thy daughter ; the husband returning in the morning , and finding him in bed with his daughter , how now ( quoth he ) is the holie spirit a deceauer ; the same spirit commaundeth me to punish thee for it , & presently he stabbed him to death with his dagger : many such tragedies haue bin seene amongst them , issuing out of their doctrine .

There be many moe diuersities among them , which here to recount would be ouer tedious , let these suffice for this briefe treatise : Behould the third brother with no beard at all .

CHAP. VII . Of Anglianisme .

SEctes of Religion are diuersly tearmed , some take their names of the authors , as Arianisme of Arius , Lutheranisme of Luther , &c. Some of the matter , as Anabaptisme of repaptizing , or not baptizing infants , some of the country where it is , or of the people thereof , as Turcisme of the Turks , Ethnicisme of the Heathens , Anglianisme of England , or of the English , who professe the same Religion , being not precisely in any country but in England , and in Lands belonging to that Crowne .

Euery one knoweth , howe from the christening of this people , they were still of the Catholike Religion , vntil King Henry the eight his latter dayes , in which vpon displeasure taken against the Pope , because he would not diuorce him from his wise Lady Katherine , and permit him to marry Lady Anne Balleine , he renounced the Pope , and called himselfe head of the Church in his Dominions , and supreame gouernour in Eeclesiasticall causes . He was emboldened so to doe by Luthers reuolte , which was in his time , albeit Luther would alow of no visible headship , neither did he regard Luther nor his doctrine : He tooke vpon him this title first of all Kings christened , yet did he not chaunge Religion but in few points , but put downe Abbeis and Religious howses .

In the dayes of his sonne King Edward being a childe , the Kingdome was gouerned by his vncle the Lord protector , who to make himselfe great put downe Catholike Religion , and brought in a religion composed by his preachers , partly of Luthers , and partly of Caluins Sect : but the childe King dying within fewe yeares , Catholike Religion was restored againe by Queene Marie , who liued not long . To her succeeded Ladie Elizabeth her sister , who beginning her raigne in Nouember , suffered the Catholike Religion vntill midsomes after , because they had nothing yet framed to put in place thereof , for shee would not allowe of her brothers Religion in all points , nor of the Bible : Shee could not endure the Caluinists , nor shee had no liking of Luthers Religion . Shee deemed with a french Hugonot of Gascony that Caluins Religion was too leane , and the Catholike Religion too fatte , because the one had many ceremonies , the other none . Shee would haue the Churches still to stand , and the names of Archbishops , Bishops , Deanes , Archdeacons , Cannons , Parsons , Vicars , Curates , &c. Shee appointed her Bishops , and made them by her letters Patents , and confirmed them in that calling by the authority of the Parliament . The manner of their ordering is this : The Prince nominateth them , then an Archbishop with two more Bishops consecrateth them ( as they tearme it ) with prayers , and imposition . Their habit is something Priest like , with a corner-cap and a rochet ; all the clergy mengoe ordinarily in blacke , but the most part of them weare ruffes much like merchants , but not altogether so large : as for jerkins , dublets , breeches , and such like , many of the Ministers make them after the newest fashion taken vp , as the lay men doe . They be al married except very few , which may marry also if they will ; Bishops , Deanes , Archedeacons , yet the Archbishop of Canterbury the Metropolitan of England liueth vnmarried , but that is voluntary and not by any bondage . These Bishoppes make Deacons and Ministers , with imposition of hands , and with few other ceremonies . The Bishops haue the same Bishopriks which were in Chtholike time , and the same places and titles , but not so large reuenues . The Ministers haue parsonages , vicarages , and other benefices as in olde time , but many of them are curtaild . These clergy men are bound to no offices nor prayers , more then the lay men be , but if they haue benefices or cures , they must reade their seruice in the Church , or preach vpon sondaies and holidaies : their Iniunctions appointe them to read somthing in the Church , vpon wednesdaies , fridaies , and vpon vigils and euens , in manner of an euensong ; but that custom is litle obserued , and in few places , as also their holydaies grow out of vse , and are litle regarded . They use churches which were in Gatholike time , but nothing is left within them but a table for the Communion , and a pulpit or seate to reade prayer in : In place where the Crucifixe was behinde the high Aultar , there are the Kings armes , but no picture or image of Saint is seene therein , no , scarcely in the glasse windowes .

They haue a forme of prayer , which they call diuine seruice , consisting of a kind of general confession , with a kinde of inuitatory , three psalmes , two chapters of the Bible , some collects , a kinde of litanies , ten commaundements , epistle , and gospell , a fewe collects againe , and then the peace of God which passeth all vnderstanding .

But of this many make smale account , but all the reckoning is of a sermon , and ordinarily they haue two vpon sonday : as for their seruice they say it by peeces omitting what they will , yea if occasion , serue , before and after the sermon they sing a section of a Geneua psalme , turned into rime in the vulgar tongue , here all sing , boyes , wenches , woemen , and all sorts .

The Minister in his sermon vpon these dayes , should by their lawes weare a surplesse , and a corner cappe , but great stirres haue beene and are yet somtimes about this businesse : Some would weare them , but their wiues will not consent thereto , some for refusing them haue lost their benefices , and some haue fled away and become Caluinists , and some of other Sectes , and these kinde of men ordinarily dislike their seruice , and ceremonies

They haue two sacraments , baptisme and the supper , and the Bishops sometimes doe confirme after a new fashion , but account it only a ceremony , and no sacrament , neyther doe they much vrge it . They baptize most commonly at the font in the Church , with some ceremonies taken from the Catholike Church , as with the signe of the crosse , but that is most odious to the purer sorte . By the lawes they should minister their Communion in singing bread , as Catholikes vse , but many will none of that , but vse common loafe bread in steed thereof , and they haue a siluer cuppe wherein they giue the wine : all by the lawe must receiue kneeling .

The Minister at the first beginning comming to the Communion table , must turne his face into the west , but that was after altered , and he appointed to turne to the north , which yet at the length was changed , and now he hath his face towards the south , and the west , when he readeth seruice .

The Prince with the Parliament may determine of Religion , and what by them is set forth must be obserued .

They haue besides , many other obseruauces taken from Catholike Religion , as in some Churches wearing of coaps , playing on organs , singing in the olde Sarum tune and such like : they wed with a ring , and bury with solemnity the Minister meeting the corps , readeth praiers and other things .

Their lawes binde them to celebrate and keepe holy the dayes of the Apostles , and of many other Saintes , as also to fast lent , on vigils , and to abstaine from flesh on fridaies and satterdayes , but fewe obserue them , or fast or abstaine from flesh any day , if any doe he is suspected to be a Papist . Indeed great personages , and such as be in high offices & dignities , wil vsually haue their tables furnished with fish and some dishes of flesh on such dayes , and euery man may eate what liketh him , but if he eate no flesh he is deemed to be no sound Protestant , for so they tearme them of their Religion , but impropetly , for the name is proper to the Lutherans , as is said , and agreeth to none other .

King Iames since he came to the Croune , hath caused sondaies to be most strictly kept , and this they call the Saboath , and obserue it almost as precisely , as the Iewes doe their satterday , but of other holidayes there is litle regard .

There are besides in this land other petite Sects lurking in corners , as Brounists , Anabaptists , Family of lone , and Traskites now beginning not heard of before , but because they be obscure & not allowed of , I passe them ouer with silence .

Heare maiest thou plainly see that the religion of England , is composed of Catholike Religion , of Lutheranisme , and Caluinisme , and yet approueth no one of them , but differeth much from euery one , singled out by themselues . Diuers ceremonies thou seest in this Religion , and diuers reiected , so that this is plainly the fourth brother with halfe a beard .

Now ponder with thy selfe , ( my gentle Reader ) and then judge whether thou hast reason , to leaue the Catholike and vniuersall Church of Christendome , continued throughout the world for so many ages together , and still is flourishing , to joyne thy selfe to any one of these late risen Sects ; and of which soeuer thou art , al the rest wil condemne thee : If thou haue but the leaste sparke of Gods grace to assist thee , thou wilt easily determine to take the best and safest way .

And so fare thou well . Finis .