The discovery of a London monster, called, the blacke dogg of New-gate profitable for all readers to take heed by.

The Discovery of a London Monster , called , The Blacke Dogg of New-gate ; Profitable for all Readers to take heed by .

Vide , Lege , Cave . Time bringeth all things to light .

Printed at London by M. P. for Robert Wilson , at his Shop at Grayes-Inne Gate in Holborne . 1638.

To the Reader .

MArvell not gentle Reader , though in a mad humour , I haue thus published the Blacke Dogge of Newgate , and here shewne his trickes to the wide world to wonder at ; he is but a Curre indeed , not worth three halfe pence to be sold , but if you will accept of my Pen and Paper , it may countervaile the charge of sixe pence ; it is no better then an ill favoured blacke Dogge , yet I desire you not to thinke your time ill bestowed in the reading , nor the price too great which you pay for it . When you have perusde it , and like it not , reward not my good will with a scoffe : But say the Dogge came from Newgate , hang him up and rend the Booke in peeces , and then I will be your debter in a Work of more worth , but let me tell you by the way , This Dog , with many Doggs of his kinde , have I knowne a great while , and have received by them great wrong : otherwise had I not bestowed so much time in deciphering a Cur ; nay more , let me give you to understand , that this Dog , thus shadowed under the name of a servant at New-gate , was in my sight , by head and shoulders thrust out of Newgate : and now men chosen instead of Dogs of far more pitie and honestie , than that hell-hound ever had .

Therefore let me thus conclude , that never Cur in shape of man , in that place , shall commit the like abuses . No more for the Dog of Newgate : But for this Dog of mine , wish me well , and I will never doe you ill : Rest content , and I am well pleased .

Fare you Well .

The Discovery of a London Monster , called , The Blacke Dogge of New-gate .

AWonder , a wonder Gentlemen , Hels brooke loose , and the Blacke Dogge of Newgate is got out of Prison , and leapt into a Signe : What the Devils here ( quoth a mad fellow going by ) seeing the Black Curre ring'd about the nose with a golden Hoope , his two sawcer-like eyes , and an Iron chains about his necke ; this cannot choose ( said he ) but be a well customed house , where such a Porter keeps the doore , and cals in company . Roome for a customer , quoth I , so in I went , where I found English , Scottish , Welsh , Irish , Dutch and French , in severall Roomes ; some drinking the neat wine of Drleance , some the Gascony , some the Burdeaux , there wanted neither Sherry sack , nor Charnico , Maligo , nor Peeter Seeme , Ambercolour'd Candy , nor Liquorish Ipocras , brown beloved Basterd , fat Aligant , or any quicke spirited Liquor that might draw their witts into a Circle , to see the Devill by in●nagination : I seeing this Gallimaufry of Company , set me downe , and called for my whole pinte alone , which I had not halfe drunk vp , but there sits downe by me a poore Thin-gut fellow , with a face as red as the gilded knobs of an Aldermans Horse-bridle , one , as it seemed , newly come out of Limbo , with commendation to his rugged Devilship , Mounsieur Shagg , the Blacke Dogge of Newgate , who being a fellow , as I thought , not worth sixe pence in money , yet would he spend eight pence to keepe me company . I , to equall his expences , called for as much , and thereupon having both our wits set vpon the racke of invention , beganne to argue of the Blacke Doggs beginning , and how he came first to be called the blacke Dog of Newgate : now touching the same , I maintained that I had read an old Chronicle , that it was a walking spirit in the likenesse of a blacke Dog , gliding vp and downe the streets a little before the time of Execution , and in the night whilst the Sessions continued , and his beginning thus .

In the raigne of King Henry the third there hapned such a famine through England , but especially in London , that many starved for want of food , by which meanes the Prisoners in Newgate eat vp one another altue , but commonly those that came newly in , and such as could make but small resistance . Amongst many others cast into this Denne of misery , there was a certaine Scholler brought thither , vpon suspition of Conjuring , and that he by Charmes and devilish Whithcrafts , had done much hurt to the Kings Subjects , which Scholler , mauger his Devils Furies , Sprits and Goblins , was by the famished Prisoners eaten vp , and deemed passing good meate . This being done , such an idle conceit possessed the mindes of the poore Prisoners , that they supposed , nightly to see the Scholler in the shape of a black Dog walking vp and downe the Prison , ready with his rabening Iawes to teare out their bowels : for his late humane flesh they had so hungerly eaten , & withall they hourely heard ( as they thought ) strange groanes and cries , as if it had beene some creature in great paine and torments ; whereupon such a nightly feare grew amongst them , that it turned to a Frenzie , and from a Frenzie to Desperation ; in which desperation they killed the Keeper , and so many of them escaped forth , but yet whither soever they came or went they imagined the blacke Dog to follow , and by this means , as I doe thinke , the name of him began .

Not so , quoth Signior Thin-gut , I thinke it rather an idle fiction , then a probable truth ; but this I must tell you Sir , ( said he ) I know it for a truth , that there is no other blacke Dog , that I ever saw or heard of , but a great blacke stone standing in the dungeon called Limbo , the place where the condemned Prisoners be put after their Iudgement , vpon which they set a burning candle in the night , against which , I haue heard that a desperate condemned Prisoner d●shed out his braines ; and that is all the Blacke Dogs that I know , or heard of : But if you be so pleased as to publish it , I will satisfie the wondring world with a discourse of the Blacke Dog in the best manner I can , and the very same , that the wisest judgements thinkes it to be . In so doing ( quoth I ) you please God , benefit your Country , and satisfie your ●riends : so with a stayed looke and in sober manner , he began as followeth .

Sir ( quoth he ) the Blacke Dog is a black Conscience , haun●ing none but blacke conditioned people , such as Newgate may ch●llenge to be guests ; yet this rugged Curre hath his sev●rall abidings ; as in the bosoms of Traytors , Murtherers , Theeues , Cut-purses , Cunny-catchers , and such like , who being the Devils blacke Parator summons them , one after another , to appeare personaily at his Hempton-hall of his three-l●g'd-Tiborne , but in the meane time they commit many notable fellonies and cozonings , to the great hurt of plaine minded people : as for example , I will first begin with a Woman Theefe , which in my minde is a limb of the Devill , for at any not able Robbery , where still a woman is an Actor , there likely is committed some murther or other , for as they be the kindest in loue , so are they cruellest in hate : But now to one Woman Theefe . I once knew living about London , a lusty W●nch , Gentlewoman-like , cloathed in silke and tasf●ty , ●ood Plate and rich Furniture about her house , and well esteemed of her neighbours , that had no other meanes to maintaine her estate but plaine Theeverie : in what manner thinke you ? mar● in this kind : she had for her p●rpos● a homely sute of apparel , like unto a Trads●mans w●fe , a pa●re of shoo●s with cloth soles to prevent crackling , a fire-sticke in her hand vnkindled , and so in the morning b●time would she along the str●etes , and any where she did chance to espy either Gentlemans or Merchants doore open , in shee would , where being not intercepted by any , what thing soever lay in her way was good purchase , and with her it should : as Hat , Cloake , Gowne , Petticoate , or Smock , or such like . But if it chanced that either Maid-servant , or an Apprentice , or any other met her , then would she desire to kindle her sticke , where sitting by the fire shee would spend away the time hovering over it , till the coast were cleare , or else would she in needy sort request a cup of small beere , which the honest minded Maid will fetch her , thinking her to be some poore neighbour , perchance in a silver Beaker , which she like an Hipocrite will sip , and simper over so long till the maids back be turned , and then goes away beaker and all : she will sometimes in her cloth shooes tread so softly that a mouse cannot heare her , and venture vp into a Knights Chamber , he and his Lady being in bed together , and carry away the Jewels they wore the day before , but if being spi●d by any of the Houshold , she hath the name of one Gentleman or other aright , which is well acquainted in that house , and so escapeth vnsuspected : other times she will venture into Mercers or Silkemens shops , when they arebusied with most customers , as though she were some waitingmayde to a Lady or Gentle woman there present , and with a hook vnder her wearing apparell will , like a cunning Porter , beare away either Silke , Uelvet , or other rich Stuffes , not perceived by the Shop-keepers , or any Customer , many such conveiances is she Crast-master in , which in my minde are the blacke d●●des of iniquity , and well may she be called one of the Blacke Dogs of New-gate , for at last , the rewards of New-gate will fall to her share .

I could tell you likewise where the Blacke Dog keepes his randevous , if I do not mistake , in the bosomes of Chamberlaines and Tapsters in great Inns : and though the Master be an honest man , the Servants may bee knavish , I speake not to all , but ●o some , as by the Law Probatum est : To our purpose : A plaine Country Gentleman , Yeoman , Farmer , or such like , comming vp to the Terme , and chancing to happen into one of these Inns , hee as a guest boldly throwes his cloake downe vpon the Hall Table , thinking all true men in the house , being as then full of Guests ; in comes the Tapster or Chamberlaine , in jesting manner , and carries the Cloake away in good sadnesse , either into the Tap-house , or into the Hostry , and there keepes it for his owne ; the poore Countrey man missing it , makes inquiry , thinking some of the house had laid it vp , but no newes thereof , ( confesse and be hangd ) thinkes he that keepes it in Lauender , in too sweet a place for the countrymans having it againe : the Innkeeper himselfe hearing of his guests losse , goes chasing and fretting vp and downe , that his house is thus discredited by theeues , and layes wait at every Brokers , both in Long-lane , Charter-house-lane , Barbican , Hounds-ditch , and such like places , but no newes thereof ; so is the countryman sent home to his wife without a cloak , perhaps with as little money , by which meanes the Innkeeper for ever after loseth his guests .

Now come we to the Theefe , Tapster or Chamberlain , I meane he that stole the cloake in ieast , he must now needs sell in good earnest ; to whom , to the Broakers ? no : for there is waite laid : whither then , to a Neighbour ? no neither for then it may come to light , and bee knowne of his Master : but vnto a kinde of Fripperers it must be vented , which be certaine Marchants of old wares , going vp and downe to buy Lists , ends of Cloath , and old Cloakes , one of these must buy it , and send it into France , to learne the French Tongue , or into the Netherlands to speake Duch , these be terrible blacke Doggs indeed , and haue sawcer-like eyes that can looke broad and wide quite over a whole Citie ; but let them alone and lose themselues in their owne adventures , it concernes not me , there is a whip in store for these Doggs , and their kennels will bee ransackt I feare me . But now to wade deeper into this Labyrinth of knavery , I will tell you as notable a pranke as ever you heard by one of these arche Bandoggs done within these few yeares . There were two of this faculty which I name M. A. and M. B : whom ( to bring this their proceeding purpose to effect ) either bought or hired two Chaines , the one of perfect good gold , the other plaine copper double gilt , and away goe they into the Countrey towards Beverley Faire , in York-shire , well mounted vpon two goodly geldings , as they had been two substantiall Gentlemen , and riding by the way they hapned into company of a Northerne Gentleman riding from London , with whom they spent liberally , , and every night at their lodgings were all fellowes both at board and bed ; in this familiar sort riding together some two or three daies , they began thus to effect their purpose , and to cast forth their angling hookes to catch this greedy gudgeon : First , M. B. spurring his Gelding as they rode together , got some quarter of a mile of ground before the Gentleman , and his fellow knaue riding after a good pace , and le ts fall the right gold Chaine tyed within a Buckram bagge , in the sight of Master A. directly in the high way ; who seeing it , starteth a little before the Gentleman , taking it hastily vp , saying , A prize , a prize , in a Buckram bag , a prize : halfe part quoth the Gentleman , not so quoth Master A. I found it , but I am witnesse ( quoth the Gentleman ) and will haue halfe , or cry it lost in the next Market : During this controver●●e , they overtooke Master B. who had let fall the Chaine , and being made Umpire betwixt them , gaue judgement , that it should be equally shar'd , whereupon opening the bagge , they found therein , wrapped in a faire paper , a good Chaine of Gold , worth foure score pound : the Northerne Gentleman having it in his hand , made bold to keepe it till they came to Beverley , where at a Gold-smiths shop they tried it , and being toucht thorowly , the Gold-smith profered for it full foure score pounds in ready money : nay , said the Gentleman , if it be so good , I will haue it my selfe , and giue Master A forty pound for his part : Whereupon both being agreed , home they goe to the Gentlemans house , and receiue their money : but now marke the I●st , whilest the money was a telling , Master B. cunningly convaies the copper Chaine into the place where the gold Chaine lay vpon the Table , being like to it , put in a Buckram bag and all , that one could not know one from the other : so having received the money , away goes Master A. and B. well contented for their journey , leaving the Northerne Gentleman nothing but a Copper chaine for his forty pound , who perhaps like a wise man never perceived till the guilt was worne off , and then where should he look my two Gallants ? marry , God knows where , vnlesse it were howling at the grate at New-gate , omongst those pittifull creatures . Having told this tale , the Bell began to ring nine a clocke , whereupon the Uintner calling , shut vp the doores , it is late , caused my friend and I to breake company , who paid for our Wine , thanking each other , and so departed , hee to his lodging , and I to mine , where being no sooner laid in my bed , and calling to minde , our passed discourses of the Blacke Dog , and his first beginning , I fell into a most vnquiet slumber , and was all the night long troubled with a most fearefull dreame ; for mee thought I was my selfe prisoner in New-gate , lying loden with I●on● in great misery , where being destitute of friends , money-lesse , and forsaken of all my acquaintance , this following Dialogue is ●h subiect passed betwixt my selfe and one Z●●● , who was like wise a prisoner as I was , and perfectly acquainted with matters touching the discovery of the s●●●arlatiue degree of Cunny-catchers : pithy , pleasant , and profitable for all the Readers hereof .

The Interlocutors . The Author , and Zany , a prisoner . Author .

ZAny , I haue many times been in hand with thee to giue me some notes vpon thy knowledge , as concerning the notable abuses committed by a sort of dissolute fellowes , who are in very deed the worst members in a Common-wealth ; I meane infamous Cunny-catching Knaues , who continually seeke the spoile of others to inrich themselues , and now is the time thy helpe will doe me some pleasure : for at the request of a very friend , I was mooved to write something of worth , whereupon I made choise of the Blacke Dogge of Newgate , to be a subiect to write vpon , wherein I could not choose , divers strong reasons especially mooving thereunto , but in that title shadow the Knavery , Uillany , Robbery , and Cunny-catching committed daily by divers , who in the name of Service and Office , were as it were attendants at Newgate . Againe , I did choose to give my booke that title , as well to satisfie some , who yet thinke there is some spirit about that prison in the likenesse of a black Dog : of which fond imagination to put them out of doubt , I thought good to give them to understand , that indeed there is no such matter . The third reason was , for I being in Newgate a prisoner , and overthrowne by these kind of bad people , with their cunny-catching , in most vile and wicked manner , in so much that whilest I there languished in great extremitie , I did both heare and see many outragious iniuries by them committed on divers sorts of people : the premisses considered . I doe intreat thee to let me have thy helpe to set downe some of their villanies committed in thy knowledge , and I will not be flacke to present this booke , being finished , into their godly hands , who will assuredly give them condigne punishment , as also provide , that the like mischiefs shal be never any more put in practise by any notable villaines .

Zany .

Indeed you say well , and I agree : but yet you know I am a poore man , and am a Prisoner . Againe , it is ill m●dling with edge tooles . As you comprehend them in the name of a Dog : so if they be angry , they will bite , and play the Devill in their likenesse . They haue parlous heads , store of money , and some good friends : all which I want . Neither will I name any : but if their knaveries were knowne , it would be thought the gallows as fit for these Cunny-catchers , as Newgate is for me , who am rather kept in to bribe them , then to answer any offence I haue committed : yet seeing you haue begun well , I would wish you end no worse : and for my part , tell you one of their knaueries , and I le tell another : so that ere we haue done , if we tel al , the Cunny-catcher wil think we haue told too much . But by your l●aue a word . I wil name no man , for if they should be named , their friends would be angry : and more then that , I rather wish their amendment than their publike infamy : of which motion if you like , begin when you will , and when you are weary rest you , and I will go on with it : for our matter being all one , no doubt our conclusion will be to the like effect .

Godly , wise , honourable , worshipfull , and gentle Reader , know first , there be an infinite number of this sect and company of cunny-catchers , therefore it were an endlesse peece of worke to name them all : but for I know too many of them , and haue likewise paid for my acquaintance with them , it may be expected I should name some of them , which for the inconvenience might thereby insue , I thought good to craue your patience on that behalfe , assuring you that they are easie enough to be known by their colours : but what wicked parts they haue performed , I will not faile but make manifest . Therfore , first I desire you to imagine , that these fellowes , these Cunny-catchers , I would say , doe promise to the world great matters : as for example . They will vndertake if a man be robd by the way , they will helpe the party offended to his money againe , or to the theeues at the least . Likewise , if a purse be cut , a house broken , a peece of Plate stole , they will promise the like : mary , to further this good peece of service , they must haue a warrant procured from some Iustice at the least , that by the said generall warrant , they may take vp all suspected persons : which being obtained , then mark how notably therwith they play the knaues , how shamefully they abuse the Iustices who granted the warrant , and how notoriously they abuse a great sort of poore men , who neither the warrant mentioneth , nor the party agreeved in any wise thought to mol●st or trouble : and for they shadow all their villanies vnder colour of some especiall warrant , let it suffice thee to read the sequell , and then judge of their abuses , as they deserue . Now first will I begin with their petty practises in their lewd actions . Say there is a man or two robb'd by the high way not far from London : the rumor hereof being bruited in the City , these fellowos will be sure to haue intelligence with the first , in what maner the men were robd , how much mony they lost , and where they dwel : the reason is this . The Cunny-catchers haue alwaies abroad some odd fellows which are inquisitors of purpose , who alwaies what they heare rumord , they presently come and certifie their good master Cunny-catchers , of all whatsoever , how , where , and when this robbery was committed ; presently away goes E. H. or N. S or some of that sett ; and enquires out the party that was robb'd : with whom it H. or S hap so meet withall , some occasion shall presently be found to intrude themselues into the company of them be robbed : and after some circumstances , the Cunny-catcher begins to tell of a strange robbery committed in such a place , saying it was shamefully done : and withall , they will cast some words a farre off as who should say in effect , if I be not deceived I know the theeues , and it may bee , that if I might speake with him or them that were robb'd , happily I should direct them how they might take the villaines .

All this while the Cunny-catcher taketh no notice of them that were robbed , neither doth the Cunny-catcher make any shew , that they knew any such matter to be done to any in the company .

Now the poore men that were robbed , hearing their smooth speeches , one of them begins very heavily to shape his tale in this , or such like manner . My honest friend , I know too well that such a robbery was done , and in very deed , I was the man was robbed in such a place , and at such a time as you speake off . I beseech you good friend , stand me in what stead you may : and if you can helpe me againe to my money , or to take the Theeues , I will not onely thinke my selfe greatly beholding to you , but I will also please you to your content . I am a ●ore man , pray you doe me what pleasure you may , good sir , I beseech you . Th●se and such like s●eeches hee vseth . The Cunnicatcher presently ioyneth issues with him , and with much cunning hee tempereth his talke . To bee short , he offereth all the pleasure he can doe him : but quoth hee , you know I am a stranger unto you , and I know not whether you will use mee well or no : It may bee , when I have done you good , you will lightly reward me . But i le tell you what I le doe : Give me but forty shtllings in hand to bear my charges the time I may search them , and if I do not deserve it , I will restore it againe , and loose all my labour : if you like of this motion , so it is : if not , I will not deale in your matter hot nor cold .

When the man that was robbed , heareth him so briefe , yet loth to part company on the sodaine : he in treateth to know the Cunnicatchers name , and where he dwelleth . To this question , another of the Cunnicatchers companions maketh this reply . Honest man , you need not doubt of his good meaning towards you : This is such a one as may doe you pleasure , if he please to undertake it . Then he roundeth the man in the eare , and telleth him his name is E. H. and that he knoweth all the Theeves about London , and that he hath done more good in helping men to their owne , then can be devised to be done by a hundred others , praising him for a wonderfull good member in a Common-wealth : further certifying the party where this E. H. dwelleth , and with an oath whispering , he wisheth him to give him some xx . s. and then agree what he shall give him more , when the Theeves be taken , making many protestations that he need not to misdoubt of E. H. his honest dealing with him in any respect .

Presently the poore man putteth his hand into his pocket and out he puls an Angel : then saith he , M. H. I have heard of you before , and for I have heard nothing but well of you , I am the willinger to deale with you : truly here is an Angel for you , and I will give you a gallon of wine at the Taverne , and if you doe me good in this matter , I will give you xx . s. more : then with some intreaty he desireth them to take it in good part , and so giveth him the money .

The Conny-catcher taketh the money very quaintly , as though he would refuse it , but in the end hee le pocket it up , & is willing to goe to the Taverne , where after that drinking a gallon or two of wine , they conclude of the former matter : and E. H. will out of hand get the Theeves into Newgate : & so much he promiseth to performe upon his honest fidelity , not letting to say , if he doe it not , he dare be hanged for it .

Then the day is appointed , when within a weeke the party robbed shall come to Newgate to know what newes , and for that time they part , the honest man to his home or about his businesse , the Cunnycatchers to some other odde place about their knavery , where they laugh at the Cunny , devising how to get him in for more money , never intending to doe any thing in the matter , which they have undertaken for the honest man , whose angell they drinke merrily .

Now we will leave this man for a while to his businesse of more profit , and I will proceed with the Cunny-catchers for their practizes .

These Cunny-catchers are never idle : and therefore it followeth next to let you understand of a notable peece of service the said H. and S. plaid with a friend of mine .

It happened my friend being some time in question , could not misse but he must needes have acquaintance with these odde shavers : and thus it fell out . My friend being in a Taverne drinking with some of his acquaintance , whilst they were drinking together , in comes H. S. who presently used great courtesie to my friend : but to be short , they tooke full survey of his weapons , his good cloake , and neat apparell , which was enough for them to imagine that my friend had store of money : whereupon they asked if he would give them a Pottle of Wine ? which he willingly granted : and so after one Pottle , he gave them another : the reckoning paid , and the company ready to depart , quoth S. to E. H I pr●y you hearke in your eare .

Presently he whispereth . Thus it is , my fellow hath a Warrant to take you : therefore in kindnesse I wish you to draw to your purse , and give him an Angel to drinke , and I will undertake he shall not see you at this time .

My friend hearing his tale tend to a cunnicatching effect , he begins to sweare they are cunnicatching Knaves , and they shall not wrong him in any respect .

To be short , the Cunnicatcher sends for a Constable , and charges the party aforesaid with fellony : the Constable knowing them to be in office ( but not to be such bad fellows ) he presently apprehendeth the party : which done , the Cunnicatchers seeing the prisoner in safe keeping , dis-furnished of his weapons , they presently require the prisoner of the Constable , and they will be his discharge : which the Constable did , thinking no lesse then they were right honest men .

Now marke what followed . As these two knaves were a bringing this party charged with fellony to Newgate , one of them offereth yet for xx . s. to set him free : of which , when the party had considered , knowing though he were cleare of that he was charged , yet if he lay in prison till the Sessions , it would be greater charges . When he was on Newgate staires ready to goe into the Batle , he was content to leave his Cloake , that money he h●d in his purse , and his weapons which were in the Constables hand pa●●e for the xr . s. which the Cunnycatchers tooke , and discharged the prisoner without any more to doe .

Not long after , the aforesaid Cunnicatchers meet with this their Cunny of xx . s. price , and another who was knowne to be , as they terme him , a good fellow about the towne in his company .

And where meet they , but in a Taverne not farre without Bishops Gate , where these two poore Cunnies had spoken for Supper : amiddest their good cheere , in comes H. and S. bidding them be merry with their fare . One of these two being an odde fellow , and in dread of these Cunnicatchers , knowing them very perfectly , set on the best face hee could , and bad them welcome , intreating them to sit downe , and doe as they did , of which proffer the Cunnicathers accepted willingly , and sate downe with them and eate and drunk merrily : supper being ended , the reckoning was call'd for , the shot paid , and all things discharged , the Cunnies would faine have beene gone .

Nay , quoth N. S. for of the two he was the grimmer Knave and had most skill to talke , I must let you know that which indeed I am sorry to doe . Yet if you will doe your selves good , you may use us well , and we will not use you amisse , to be short , thus it is , such a man was rob'd within this weeke , and he hath got out a warrant for you two by name . He hath lost ten pounds : now if you will restore the money , and bestow xx . s. on us two to drink for our pains , we will undertake to satisfie the party and be your discharge , if not , we have a warrant , and you must answer it at New-Gate .

This backe reckoning is something sharpe , but there is no remedy , either pay so much money , or else must a Constable be sent for , and so to Newgate as round as a hoope .

To be short , this was the conclusion , the Cunnies paid downe xi . l. every penny , whereof ten pound was to be paid to the man in the moone , for I dare take it upon my death , neither of these Cunnies did offend any such man , in manner as these knaves had charged them .

Zany .

By your leave a word , all this while you have not concluded what became of the first Cunny these edde shavers meet with ; I pray you be briefe , and let us heare how he was ended withall , and then you shall heare me tell you of wonders , if these be held to be but of moment .

Author .

Well then to the first Cunny ; again at his time appointed , he commeth to the wise man of Newgate to inquire what is done in his matter , and at Newgate the Cunny findeth his adde acquaintance with E. H. who at the first sight hath the time of the day for him , much curtesies , but to the Taverne they must to debate the matter , where they must have a pottle of the best . Whilest the Wine is a filling , the Cunny-catcher sheweth what great paine he hath taken to come to the Theeves , and how hardly they mist of them : but for it is best to use few words , the Cunnycatcher from one day to another , still driveth off the Cunny , who is still in hope that the Cunny-catcher meaneth good faith , whereas indeed he never made account what faith was : so to be short , if the Theeves rob'd hi not some five or sixe pound , he hath got , or if he find where he is , a dry shaving as much as forty or fifty shillings more .

I tell thee Zany me thinkes these are notable villantes , and pitty they should not be punished , who live by no other meanes but practising such pranks as these be .

Againe this is a generall rule to the Cunnicatcher , that when or where he meets with such a one as hath beene at any time committed to Newgate , if that fellow have good apparrell on his backe , the Cunnicatcher taketh acquaintance of him , and a quart of Wine they must needs drinke , when the reckoning comes to payment , the Cunnicatcher hath brought no money from home that day , so by the others drawing of his purse to pay for the Wine , he knoweth what lyning is in it , then if he have money , the Cunnicatcher is in hand with him for a Bribe , some odde crowne or an Angel to drinke : if the man be in any fault , fearing the worst , he will not stand with him for a trifle : if he be in no fault , perhaps he tels , in faith you are deceived in me , I am not he you take me for , and so parteth and giveth him nothing .

Presently the Cunnicatcher useth all meanes to know where he lies , which when he hath done , within a night or two away goes this knave with soone old warrant to the Constable of that liberty , craving his aid to apprehend a bad fellow who is thought to have done much mischiefe , but for a surety he avoucheth him for an arrand theefe , & that he hath been in Newgate . Upon these speeches the Constable goes with this H. where the poore man lies , and apprehends him and convaies him to Newgate , laying some Iustices commandment on him , where he lies till the Sessions , unlesse he come off roundly with a bribe to the Cunnicatcher : but say the Cunnicatcher be mistaken in this fellowes purse , and that he have not so much as he supposed , yet the Cunnicatcher is so strong of faith , that he will not beleeve the contrary : so by this meanes the poore man lyeth in prison till he be quite a begger , without releasement till the Proclamation at the Sessions , at which time he is not worth the ground he goes on , neither knoweth he , being utterly overthrowne , how to have any remedy : which is pittifull and lamentable .

Zany .

I muse you should account of these trifling matters , whereas indeed they are nothing in respect of the priz●● they have plaid , and if you will give me leave a little , I will come something nearer the Cunnicatcher then you have yet done .

Author .

I pray thee doe : yet I must needs tell thee I have bin too neare the Cunnicatcher , and what I have spoken of him , it is not onely with griefe but withsorrow to my heart , and anguish of soule , that these outrages should be committed , to the utter undoing of so many , as within this thirty yeares have beene : for so long did I heare one of these Uillaines vaunt he had beene in office about Newgate : and what I have done or said on this behalfe , with my life and death , I am ready to make proofe of it , that it is true . This minde I beare , that the Devill should have his due of these Knaves , and I hold it my duty to reveale whatsoever is to the good of a Common-wealth : and so I will , though the Cunnicatcher sweare to give me a cut in the leg for my labour , and now Zany I pray thee goe forward .

Gentlemen , though I want eloquence , yet you shall see I have a rowling tongue , deepe knowledge , and am a rare fellow to bewray many matters touching cunnicatching .

Master Greene , God be with thee , for if thou hadst beene alive , knowing what I know , thou wouldst as well have made worke as matter , but for my part , I am a plaine fellow , and what I know , I will not be meale-mouthed , but blab I wist , and out it must : nay , and out it shall , for as the Comedian said , Plenus rymarum sum .

I know twenty and twenty of these fine Cunnicatchers , who learne of the Fencers to double a blow , knowing what belongs to the button and the bob : yet for the Author hath onely used foure Letters for two names , let them stand , and when I name H he must thinke Zany can see whilst there is an eye in his head , H. is aspirationis nota , and no le●●●r indeed , therefore I care not if this Cunnycatching H. were wip'd out of the Letters Row to h●ng on the Gallowes , who is fitter to be a Sipher to make up a number at Tyborne , then to be a man of so bad condition . As for a Pottle of Wine he cares not who he hang so he may have it , if it be but the Wine .

Is the first of the second name the Author useth . No Knave I warrant you : and as for S. if he be in some sort a Knave to be proved , he will be contented , nay , he must in spight of his teeth disgest the name of a Cunnicatcher , for by that are y● being not worth a groat a yeare , he is able by his fine wit to maintaine himselfe in his Satin Doublet , Uelvet Hose , his Hat lin●d with Uelvet , his Silke stocke , his Rapie● and Dagger gilt , his golden Brouch , and all things correspondent as might seeme a man both of wit and living . And now I , according to my promise to the Author , will have a cast at these fine Cunnicatchers , and I will not slander them in any wise , but speake the truth unto death . If I say more then I will prove , I will never bid you trust Zany againe .

Not long since at a Tylting upon triumph on the Coronation day : many good Subjects with ioy assembled the place of Triumph , aswell reioycing to see the Queenes most Excellent Maiestie , as also to see the Tylting performed , by sundry Noble and Right Honourable personages .

Amongst the rest , there comes a woman with six pounds in her purse , which the Cutpurse met withall , she , as it seemed , having more minde on the pleasures of the present day and time , then she had of her purse .

The Iusts ended for that day , the woman thinking all had been well , takes her way homewards with a friend of hers , yet by the way , this good woman must needs drinke with her friend a Pint of Wine : but here was the mischiefe , when the Wine was to be paid for , the woman mist her purse , and looking on the strings , with a cold heart she might perceive her purse was cut away .

Her friend to comfort her bad her take no thought , for he knew a man wou●d helpe her to her purse again , and saith he , we will presently go to him , for I know where he dwels .

The woman thanked her friend for his courteous offer , and away they goe to E. H his house , where they found him , to whom they brake the matter wholly how it was , desiring his helpe . Presently he had them in the wind , and bad them welcome , promising that if they would content him for his paines he would doe her good , asking her what she will willingly bestow to have her money againe . At the first word she offered him forty shillings . All this was well , and they agreed to meet next day about White Hall , where they shall have answer to their content : and so after they had drunke a quart of Wine at the Taverne , for that might they parted . The next day , according to promise they met , and this E. H. had in his company a man , who he said was a Constable , but whether he said truely or no , I will not say , but to the matter : They appoint the woman to go to a friends house hard by , and she should heare more anone . Away went she , as they had appointed her , and away go they to looke for Cutpurses .

I warrant you they sought not long , but there they met with a Cutpurse , whom they take by the sleeve : and there they meet with another as good a Cutpurse as the former , and so they take at the least a dozen Cutpurses : which when they have done , the Cunnicatcher begins to raile mightily , swearing they shall some of them be hanged : but to prison they shall all goe , unlesse this money be had againe , she wing a Warrant , or a peece of Paper at the least : which is sufficient to beare the Cunnicatcher harmelesse , as he saith .

Now the Cutpurses , though they be all cleare of this matter , yet they begin to quake for feare , offering rather then they will goe to prison , they will make up the money , so that E. H. will promise to give it them againe when the Cutpurse shall be knowne , who cut the Purse indeed . This motion the Cunnicatcher liketh indifferently : and so of these dozen of Cutpurses , he taketh of some more , and of some lesse , that the summe is largely made up : which done , they are all discharged , marry they must have some twenty shillings overplus for their paines and kindnesse shewed to the Cutpurses , all which is granted .

To be short , no Cutpurse scap'd their hands , but he paid a share , so that there was gathered the first day at the least ten pounds amongst Cutpurses , and the next day this E. H. met with the Cutpurse , who cut the purse indeed , of whom he tooke the money , with the vantage , and let him goe , without answering the matter : and to conclude , the woman had foure pound of her money againe , and so the matter was no more spoken of .

I thinke this was a peece of knavery , if you talke of knavery , and yet this is no knavery in respect of that I wil shew you in this next discovery of their Cunny-catching .

At the Tearme time , these fellowes H. and S. haue had great booties by their practises in this Art , and this is their manner .

In the morning away they go to Westminster hall , where they know the Cutpurse will be about his businesse , but the Cunny catchers are not without a couple , who are their consorts : who as soone as they come to the Hall , thrust in amongst the thickest , and there they listen to heare if any purse were cut that day .

Likewise , the Cunny-catchers , they take their standings one of them at the water side , the other in some close place , at another Gate : so that lightly a Cutpurse cannot come out of the Hall , but one of them shall spie him , and take him by the sleeue , if the Cutpurse haue done any thing , word is presently brought to the Taverne , whither the Cunny and the Cunny-catcher are gone to drinke . Now if it be some small summe , the Cunny-catcher sheweth the Cunny a good countenance ; but if it be a large summe , as sixe pounds , or vpwards , the Cunny-catcher dissembling his intent , will not stay but the drinking of a pottle of Wine .

The Cutpurse intreats their company , and offereth both Wine and a breakefast , but all is in vaine , the Cunny-catcher will not tarry , swearing a great oath , he is sorry that it was his chance to see this Cunny or Cut-purse this day , for there is a mischiefe done , and he f●●res some will smoake for it . At this the Cutpurse is af●ard , but he for that time scapeth their fingers , for the Cunny-catcher will t●rry no longer .

Now the Cunny-catcher sendeth presently one of his company to seeke out the party who had his purse cut , which he performeth with diligence , and meeting with him , hee tells the party , that he heard he lost his purse at Westminster , and if he will be advised by him , he will helpe him to the most of his Money againe .

This honest man glad to haue part againe of his money , offereth at first word , the one halfe to have the other , assuring this odd fellow for certainty , that he lost ten pounds .

Well ( saith this Factor for the Cunny-catcher ) if your leasure wil serue to go with me , I wil bring you to one doth partly know who cut your purse , therefore it is your way to follow his counsaile , and I warrant you , my life for it , but you shall haue your desire .

Hereat the honest man is glad , and willingly goeth along with him to a place where he knoweth E. H abideth his comming : Now being met , the Wiseman of Newgate begins at the first dash , to tell them whereabout they come , even in as ample manner , as if the man who had his purse cut , had told the tale himselfe .

No marvell though the Countrey man doe wonder a while at the matter , but in the ende , he telleth him it is so indeede , and according to the first motion they agree , which is the one halfe for the other : the Countrey man willing to referre the matter wholly to this Cunny-catchers discretion .

Then away goes the Countrey man with H. the Cunny-catcher , to a Iustice , to whom he signifieth in every respect , how his purse was cut , desiring of the Iustice a Warrant to take vp all suspected persons : of which motion the Iustice intending to doe Iustice , grants his Warrant , and giues it to H. willing him to certifie him what shall bee done on that behalfe , as the Warrant intendeth .

This Warrant obtained , the Cunny-catcher is as pleasant as a Pye , taking his leaue of the Iustice , away goes the Countrey man , and his good friends with him , and to the Taverne straight , where they spend some time in drinking a pottle of the best wine , which the Countrey man must pay for : which done , H. taketh his leaue of his Client , promising him not to be slacke in his businesse ; which done they part , the Countrey man to his lodging , or as his occasion serveth , and the Cunny-catcher about his faculty .

Now woe to the Cutpurses , for as H. happeneth to meet with them , they must to Newgate , shewing warrant sufficient for a greater matter .

But you must take notice , that of a dozen or sixteene Cut-purses who he hath apprehended , he is sure enough that hee which cut the purse indeed shall be none of them .

This honest company of Cutpurses being all in Newgate H. goes presently and certifies the Iustice , what a sort of notable Theeues he hath taken , desiring the Iustice to send for them at his pleasure , to examine them about the Countrey mans purse , assuring the Iustice that they are cunning Theeues , and that he dare lay his life , they will confesse nothing : which indeed the Iustice findeth true : for they being axamined , will confesse as much as nere a whit .

To Newgate away they goe againe , where they make all meanes to H. to stand their friend , shewing their innocencie : yet rather then they will lye in prison , one offereth ten shillings , another twenty shillings , some more , some lesse , as they are of ability : offering farther , to giue besides the summe , every one something to H for his good word to the Iustice , that they may be set at liberty .

Now the Cunny-catcher hath the matter as he would wish it , and taking their money first , he presently goes to the Iustice , and certifieth him , that these which he hath apprehended , did none of them cut the purse : and for he hath gotten knowledge who did , he desireth that they may be bayled .

The Iustice glad to heare the truth is knowne , is willing to set them at libertie , which vpon their Baile he granteth , Of this money the Countrey man hath never a penny , and all these Cutpurses are set at liberty .

Which done , H seeketh diligently for the Cutpurse , who did the matter indeed : with whom when he meeteth , he spareth not to tell him how sore the Iustice is against him , and how earnestly the Countrey man will pursue the Law : and further he sweareth , that some of them who were in Newgate told the Iustice plainely , that he cut the purse .

This peale rings nothing well in the Cutpurses eares , who can find no favour , but to Newgate : yet vpon intreaty made by the Cutpurse , the Cunny-catcher promiseth , that for his part he will doe him any good he can , wishing the Cutpurse , as he is wise enough , so it were good for him to hold his owne , and confesse nothing so the Iustice , what proofe so ever come against him , and in so doing , it may lye in his power to doe him good : telling him further , that the man who lost the money , though he be sore bent against him , yet he will partly be ruled by him .

Well to Newgate marcheth this H. with his Cutpurse : where he to welcome him for his faire words , hee clappeth on his legges a good paire of Boults and Shakles : which done , he sendeth for the Countrey man , and telleth him of these good tydings , how the Theefe is taken , and how he hath vsed him .

The next way they take , is to the Iustice , to whom H. signifieth how the case standeth , railing mightily against the Cutpurse , even in the worst manner he can devise : saying , it will be evidently proved that he cut the purse , & none but he : further he requesteth that the Cutpurse may bee examined . The Cutpurse is sent for , who to every question the Iustice can demand , having taken out his lesson ( confesse and bee hang'd ) hath his answer ready , so that there can be no advantage taken by his examination .

The Iustice returneth him to Newgate againe , to abide till the next Sessions , requiring the party to bee bound to giue evidence against him : but the countrey man dwelling farre from London , and it being long to the next Law-day , alledgeth , he cannot be in the Citie at that time , for he is a poore man , and hath great occasion of businesse , so that he cannot be there to giue evidence , neither can he say if he would , any thing against that party : for so farre as he can remember , he never saw that fellow before in his life .

Yet H. promiseth , that it will be proved against the Cutpurse : so the Countrey man and H. take their leaues of the Iustice , making shew as though they would come againe , though it be no part of H. his meaning .

H. goeth straight to Newgate , where he fals in hand with the Cutpurse , swearing vnto him by his honesty , that hee hath laboured ●he party who had his purse cut , to take his money again , and not to give evidence against him , assuring him with many oathes , that if he m●y haue his money againe , he will presently go out of the towne . The Cutpurse taking H. his hand , that no man shal giue Evidence against him at the Sessions , doth presently send abroad to his friends for the money : which as soone as it commeth , he deliver●th to H. and withall a large overplus , because he will bee sure of H. his favour .

This done H. goes to the Countrey man , and fels him , he got no more but six or seven pounds , of which if he will accept , and proceed no further against the party , he hath it to pay him : marry he will not be knowne to the Countrey man , but that he had that money of some friends of the cutpurses , who vpon the former condition , is willing it should be paid , if not to haue his money againe .

The countrey man having haste out of the City , is glad to take it : out of which summe , if it be seven pounds , H. must haue halfe : so that the poore man of ten pounds , hath but three pounds ten shillings , whereas the Cunny-catcher by this account hath got at one hand and an other , very neere forty Markes : the money shard● , the Countrey man takes Horse , and away he rides : Againe H. his mouth is stopt , and the next Sessions the Cutpurse is quit by Proclamation , no man being there to giue evidence against him .

Author .

O wonderfull peece of villany . I will trouble thee no further , thou hast told enough , and I will tell no more : who heares but this which is already spoken , will hold these knaues for execr●ble U●rlets . So for this time I will commend thee to thy other businesse , wishing thy liberty as I doe mine owne : and if thou haue occasion , command me to doe thee good , if it lye in my power .

Zany .

Sir , I thanke you for your courteous offer : but yet I must tel you , I could tell twenty such prancks as these are , which these Cunny-catching fellowes haue played : but indeed they keepe one order almost , in performing them all : but since you think here is inough , I will say no more , and so fare you well .

Author .

Thus haue you heard , gentle Reader , how at large this Blacke Dogge is desciphered : which Dogge as he is , is worthy of your generall hate : but for I haue with paines concluded my Booke vnder that title , I will not request you according to the old Proverbe , Loue me , Loue my Hound : but onely , loue me , and hang my Dogge , for he is not worthy so good a name as a Hound .

Certaine fearefull Visions a p●aring to the Authour of this Booke , most worthy to bee noted . WHen as blacke Titan with his duskie robe , Had Tellus clouded with his curtaines night , Faire Phoebus peering vnderneath earths globe , With winged Steeds hence takes his course aright . Titan hee leaues to beare imperiall sway , Commanding Night , as Phoebus did the day . The fiery Chariot posteth under ground , With Titans Mantle all the Earth is spread , And wreathes of Ieat about his temples bound : Earths Cell coale blacke , sweet Morpheus calls to bed , No time to walke , to sport , to game , to see , I did obey , that must commanded bee . Layd in my bed , I 'gan for to recount A thousand things which had been in my time : My birth , my youth , my woes , which all surmount , My life , my losse , my libertie , my crime : Then where I was , unto my minde recalling , Me thought Earth gap'd , and I to Hell was falling . Amidst these feares that all my senses cumber , Care clos'd mine eyes , and sorrow wr●ng my heart : Opprest with griefe , mine eye-lids 'gan to slumber , But borne to woes , must of more woes have part . A thousand Furies to my heart appearing , That did affright my soule with ugly searing . Thus lay I long beholding Hell and Devills , Agast with mazes , almost dead in feares , Not knowing how to rid mee from the evills : They shew in action , and in lookes appeares , One Anticke monster , hidious , foule and grim , Me most appall'd , and most I lookt at him . Thought I at last , I will cry out for ayd , Striving to crie neere dead , affright with feare , I heard a voyce , which like an Angell sayd : Bee not dismayd , for thou shalt see and heare Men devils , devils men , one both , both all del●ding : Worlds evils , wrack then , sheeps cloth , wolves pray concluding . Hearing a voyce , my heart was much revived , Noting the words , I did some courage take : But sudden ioyes hath sudden woes atchieved , A sudden noyse this hellish crew did make , Threatning by shewes as though they would devoure My life and soule , subdued by terrors power . Thought checkt my mind , feares senses all amazing , Hell broken loose , eyes visions furies affrighting , Subdu'd earths powers , upreares hearts insight a gazing , Terror of minde with hope , cries feares faint arighting : Helpe me orequelled : waking with dread , I espied Grac'd gracious Minerva , who thus to my outery replyed : FEare not at all , nor saint thou with beholding : But light thy Lampe , and take thy Pen in hand , Write what thou feest , thy Uisions all unfolding , I will direct , and let thee understand , What all these Hell hounds shadow by appearing , Uiew thou their worst , and then write of their fearing . Subdu'd by words , which did all works exceed , Ravisht with joyes , such feature to behold , Abjecting feare , my glutted eyes I feed , Upon her brightnesse which all harmes control'd : Glimpse of her brightnesse , senses all endearing , Legions of Devils , could no more fright with fearing . I preas'd my selfe to take the hardest steele , And from the Flint , I beat forth sparkes of fire : Kindling the Lint , my ready Match I feele , Yeelding my Lampe the light of my desire : Soon spied Minerva , with Lawrel crown'd , and Bayes , Mirror divine , feature of worthlesse praise . Before her feet submissively I tell , Pardon I crav'd , fearing I was too bold : Rise up , quoth she , and view these Hags of Hell , For divers secrets must thy pen unfold . Make true record , what shall be shew'd to thee , For these are they , which worlds deceivers be . I le clense thine eyes , least vapours doe offend , I le cleare thy wits , and give a pleasing muse : The deasest eare shall to thy talke attend , The worke so worthy , thou mayst not refuse : Newgates Blacke Dog , with Pen and Inke depaint , Curres of this kinde shall thereby have restraint . Not for my sake doe thou what I require , But for his sake ; and with that word me showes A faire old Man , whose teares foretold desire , And in a mantle mourner-like he goes . His veines like Azure , his haire as white as wooll , Tresses before , behind a bare smooth skull . And this is Time , Minerva thus repli'd , Which mournes to see these Hel-hounds Times abusing : How thousands in their ravening iawes have dyed ; Slaughtering Lambes , yet to the world excusing : Offence with colour shadowing mighty evils , By name of service , and yet incarnate Devils . No more quoth she , but take thee to thy Pen , Resolve the wise , that they have beene deceiv'd : Many Blacke Dogs have walk'd in shapes of men , And with deceits the Common-wealth agreev'd : His forme and lineaments to the world disclose , That this Blacke Dog be knowne where ere he goes . My Muse gan blush , dreading to undertake So great a taske : but Time againe replide , Feare not at all , Time doth the motion make , Unmaske this Beast , let him no longer hide Himselfe in shrowds , who makes of sinnes a scoffe , Worlds great'st admire , when as his Uizards off , Time then said I , faire Time I will not use Longer delay , but satisfie thy will : So Time will answer for my harmelesse Muse , Who wanteth worth so nigh P●rnassus hill ? Be briefe , quoth Time : with that I tooke my Pen , Obeying Time , without offence to men . Then did I fixe mine eye upon this Beast , Who did appeare first in the shape of Man , Homely attyr'd , of wonders not the least , A Broome-mans song to sing this Dog began : From street to street trudgeth along this Groome , As if he would serve all the world with Broome . But in a trice he did transforme his shape , Which stroke a treble horror to my heart : A Cerberus , nay worse , he thrice as wide did gape , His haires all Snakes curling , they will not part . Cole-blacke his hew , like Torches glow his eyes , His breath doth poyson , smoke from 's nostrils flyes . His countenance ghastly , fearefull , grim , and pale , His fomy mouth still gaping for his prey : With Tigers teeth he spares none to assaile , His lippes Hell gates , ore-painted with decay : His tongue the Clapper , sounding wofull knell , Towling poore men to ring a peale in Hell . Like sepulchre his throat is hollow made , Devouring all whom dangers make a prey , Bribery his hand , spoyle of the poore his trade . His fingers talents ceasing to betray , And with his armes he foldeth men in woes , Destruction stil's the path where ere he goes . Me thought his brest was all of burning Brasse , Through which there grew a a heart of hardest Steele : His belly huge , like scalding furnace was , His thighes both like unto a fiery wheele , His legs were long , one foot like to a Hinde , The other foot a Hounds of bloody kinde . And in this shape I saw this monster walke , About the streets , most fearefull to behold ; But more to tell , since I begin to talke , Here is the tale which time would faine have told . Upon a sudden rusht this Curre on me , As though my life his evening prey should be . Within his clutches did he cease me fast , And bare me straight unto blacke Pluto's Cell : When there I came , he me in Lymbo cast , A Stigion lake , the Dungeon of deepe hell : But first my legs he lock'd in Iron Bolt , As if poore I had been some wanton Colt . And then he gan with basest termes to braide , And then he threats as though he would me kill : And then he daunces , for he me be●raid , And then speaks faire , as though he meant none ill : Then like Medusa did he shake his locks , And then he threatens me with Iron stocks , At last he left me in that irkesome den . Where was no day , for there was ever night : Woes me , thought I , the abject of all men , Clouded in care , quite banished from light : Rob'd of the Skie , the Stars , the Day , the Sun , This Dog , this Devill , hath all my joyes undone . Surprest with anguish , sorrow , griefe , and woe , Me thought I heard a noyse of Iron chaines Which dinne did torment and affright me so , That all my senses studied what it meanes : But by and by which did me comfort more , There came a man which opened Lymbo's dore . All leane he was , and feeble too God knowes , Upon his arme he bare a bunch of Keyes : With Candle-light about the Cell he goes , Who roughly said , sir , lye you at your ease ? Swearing an oath that I did lie too soft , Who lay on ground , and thus he at me scoft . To see a man of feature , forme and shape , It did me good , and partly feares exiled : But when I heard him gybe me like an Ape , Then did I thinke that I was thrice beguiled . Yet would I venture to this man to speake , Into discourses , thus I gan to breake . Nye me poore wretch , that knowes not where I am , Nor for what cause , I am brought to this place : Bound for the slaughter , lying like the Lambe , The Butcher meanes to kill within a space . My griefes are more then can my tongue expresse , Aye me , woes me , that can find no redresse . Yet if thou be , as thou doest seeme a man , And so thou art , if I doe not mistake : Doe not increase , if so increase thou can , The cruell tortures which me wofull make . And tell me first who thou thy selfe mayest be , That art a man , and yet doest gybe at me . Seeing the feares which did my heart possesse , Uiewing the teares that frickled from mine eyes , He answered thus , a man I must confesse , I am my selfe that here condemned lies . And by the law adiudg'd I am to dye , But now the Keeper of these Keyes am I. This house is Newgate , gently he replied , And this place Lymbo , where in now thou art : Untill thou pay a Fine , heare must thou bide , With all these Bolts which doe agreeve thy heart . No other place may there provided be , Till thou content the Keeper with a Fee . With that he turn'd as though he would away , Sweet , bide a while , I did him so intreat : Quoth he , my friend , I can no longer stay , Yet what you want , if you will drinke or eate , Or have a Fire , or Candle by you burne , Say what you need , and I will serve your turne . Quoth I , deare friend , then helpe me to a fire , Let me have Candle for to give me light : Nor meat nor drinke doe I wish or desire , But onely grant me gracious in thy sight . And say , what monster was it pl●c'd me here ? Who hath me almost lifel●sse made with feare , Nay peace , quoth he , for there begins a tale , Rest now content , and Time will tell thee more , To strive in Fetters it will small availe : Seeke first to ease thy legs which will grow sore , When Bolts are off , we will that matter handle , So he departed , leaving me a Candle . Away he went , and leaves me to my woes , And being gone , I could not chuse but thinke , That he was kind , though first unkind in showes , Who offered me both fire , bread , and drinke . Leaving a Candle by me for to burne , It eas'd my griefe , and made me lesse to mourne . Ioying to see , who whilome had no sight , I reacht the Candle , which by burning stands , But I unworthy comfort of the light , A Rat doth rob the Candle from my hands , And then a hundred Rats all sally forth , As if they would convoy their prize of worth . In vaine I strive to re-obtaine what 's lost , My woes are now , as woes at first began : With change of griefes , my perplext soule is tost , To see the end I did bethinke me than . How Time had promis'd secrets to disclose , So I expect the worst of Hellish foes . Whilst thus I lay in Irons under ground , I heard a man that begged for reliefe : And in a chaine of Iron was he bound , Whose clattering noise fill'd full my heart with griefe , Begging one penny to buy a hundred bread , Hunger'd and starv'd , for want of food nye dead . Woe 's me , thought I , for thee so bound in chaines , Woe 's me for them , thou begg'st for to sustaine : Woe 's me for all , whose want all woes containes , Woe 's me , for me , that in your woes complaine . Woe 's me , woe's you , and woe is to us all , Woe to that Dog , made me to woe a thrall . Whilst thus I languish , I on suddaine heare , An uncoth noyse which did approach my den : Listning , unto the doore I laid mine eare , And then I knew the voyces were of men . Still in neerenesse drew they more and more , At last I heard them opening Lymbo's doore . In first there came the man that gave me light , And next the Dog , who brought me to that place : Another with a Club , appear'd in sight , Three weaponlesse , as though they moan'd my case : Fainting for feare , I knew not what to say , Expecting then performance of decay . But now this Dog is in a better shape , In every point proportion'd as a man : My heart did throb , not knowing how to scape , But to intreat this Curre , I thus began . Faire friend , quoth I , if ●o thy will may be , To case my griefe , I le give thee any Fee . With that he gri●'d , and thus he made reply , Thou art a Uillaine worthy of this place ; Thy fault is such , that thou shalt surely die , I will not pitty thee in any case . Such as thou art , too many every where , But I will seeke in time to have them heare . When he nam'd Time , then I on Time did thinke , But more he sayes , if thou have any Coyne : To pay for ease , I will a little winke , And Bolts releasment , with discharge I le joynt . Of this close prison to another Ward , Paying thy Fine , or else all ease is bard . Like as the childe doth kisse the rod for feare , Nor yet dare whimper , though it hath beene beat : So with smoothe lookes , this Dog approach I neare , Before the Dev'll a Candle doe I set . Treating him faire , with fairest words may be , Bidding him aske , he shall have gold of me . Why then , quoth he , thy speeches please me well , Partners ( quoth he ) strike off his Irons all : Then up we went , as one should climbe from Hell , Untill I came into a loathsome Hall . When there I came , they set me on a blocke , With Punch and Hammer my Irons off they knocke . No marvell though , whilst they my legs untide , Mine eyes did surfet , drinke with woes beholding , Bolts , Shackels , Collors , and Iron , Sheares I spide , Thumstals , Wastbands , torturs griefe unfolding : But while the case of legs my sorrowes calme , Roome , quoth a wretch , for me with Widdowes almes . Take of these curtalles did another cry , And on his knees he fell before this Curre , Who to his sorrowing made a Dogs reply , Downe to thy Ward , and doe not make this stirre . What now I know , if I had knowne before , In stead of these light chaines thou shouldst had more . With that the poore man was thrust out of sight , And I all fearing , fear'd with feare of feares : My Irons off , I went , as goe I might Unto this Dog , in whom all devils appeares . With golden Angel I this Cur presented , Saith he , one more , else I am not contented . Wonder it was to see a Fiend of Hell , To thirst for Angels of the fairest hue : But Devils are Devils , and they would all orequell . Mans life and soule , this Dog seeks to subdue : His mouth to stop , Angels I gave him two , Yeelding persorce , as I perforce must do . And then he left me in the Partners Hall , The Grate doth open , and this Dog out-goes , Thousand sorrowes holds my heart in thrall , Yet there I am , not by my selfe in woes : Hereon oreplunged with deepe hearts griefe cryes , I live a life thrice worse then he that dyes . An other sorry soule , without a ragge , Hurckling for cold , in whom all want appeares : At last gan speake , as if he meant to bragge , And thus he sayes : Heare have I beene nine yeares : Tell you of woes , when you my woes have seene , And yet have many men more wofull been . With that I rose , and to this poore man went , In hope to learne some novils by his talke : Approaching him among his discontent , He asked me , if so I pleas'd to walk● ? And if you will , then follow up these staires , To walke and talke , deceiveth Time of cares . I followed him as he that in a wood , Hath lost himselfe , and knowes no way he takes : And in distress● , I thought conferring good , New woes with old , just mixture consort makes . And though the place doth nought but discord sound , My soule for his , our discords concord found . At first he gently tooke me by the hand , And bids me welcome , as I were his guest : You are a Prisoner , I doe vnderstand , And hither welcome are both bad and best . Men of all sorts come for offending hither , And being here , here bidethey altogether . And then he did begin thus to discourse . Cease to lament with vaine dispayring feares : Thy selfe dissolu'd to dropps gaines no remorse , Here s none regards , though all my mournings hea●●s , If vnder earth , the Devils can proue a hell , Theirs is not like to this , where wretches dwell . See in you Hall are divers sorts of men , Some weepe , some wail● , some mourne some wring their hands , Some curse , some sweare , and some blasph●ming then , My heart did faint , my heads haire vpright stands . O Lord thought I , this house will rend in sunder , Or else there can be no hell , this hell vnder . Thus wondring I , on suddaine did espie , One all in black came stamping up the stair●s : Whose you I askt , and thus he made reply , You is the man doth mitti●ate our ●ares . He preacheth Christ , and doth Gods word deliver , To all distrest , to comfort men for ever . Then drew I neere to see what might be●ide , Or what the s●quell was of that I saw : Expecting good would follow such a guide , As preach●d Christ , and taught a God to know . A hundred clustering come the Pulpit neere , As if they long'd she Gospell for to heare . What s this , quoth I , that now I doe behold , The h●gs of Hell , and Sathans impious limbs , Some deeper secret doth this sight unfold , Then I can gesse , this sight my sences dims , Straight of my friend I asked by and by , What it might be , who made me this reply . You men which thou behold ; so ●ale and wa● , Who whiles lookes up , whiles looking downe beneath , Are all condemn'd , and they must dye each man . Iudgement is given , that cord shall stop their breath . For haynous facts , as murther , theft , and treason , Unworthy life , to dye Law thought it reason . The Sermon ended , the men condemn'd to dye , Taking the●e leaves of their acquainted friends : With ●orry lookes , paysing their steps they ply , Downe to a Hall , where for them there attends , A man of Office , who to da●nt lives hopes , Doth ●●rd their bands , and scar●e their necks , with ropes . Thus rop't and corded , they descend the staires , Newgates Blacke Dog , bestirres to play his part : And doth not cease for to augment their cares , Willing the Cerman to s●t neare his Cart. Which done , these men , with feare of death orepang'd , Bound to the Cart , are carried to be handg'd . This rufull sight , yet end to their doom'd sorrowes , Makes me agast , and forces me bethinke , Woe upon woe , and so from wofulst borrowes , A swar●●e of griefe , and then I sounding sinke . But by T●nes ayde , I did revive againe , Might I have dyed , it had beene lesser paine . For now againe the Dog a fresh assaults me , As is my sp●yle were next to be inacted : And like a subtill Curre in speeches halts he , With thousand fleighty wiles , old shifts compacted . Charging me off with that I never did , In his smooth'st looks , are cruell bitings hid . I spake him faire , as if I had offended , He treats me foule , who never did him ill , He playes the gripe on Tytius intended , To tire his heart , yet never hath his fill . Even so this Dog doth tire and prey on me . Till quite consum'd , my golden angels be . Then wofull want did make me oft complaine , Hunger and cold doe pinch me at the heart : Then am I thrust out of my bed againe , And from my chamber must I needs depart : To lowest Wards , to lye upon the boords ; Which nought but filth and noysome smels affords . Midst forty men , surpriz'd with care and griefe , I lye me downe on boords , as hard as chennell : No bed nor boulster may afford releefe , For worse then Dogs , lye we in that foule kennell : What might I thinke , but sure assure me then , That metamorphos'd , we were beasts not men . Griefe upon griefe , did still oppresse my minde , Yet had I store Copartners in my woe : No ease but anguish , my distresses finde , H●re lies a man ; his l●st liv●s breath doth blow : And ere the sorry man be fully dead , The Rats doe prey upon his face or head . Whilst thus I languish in my woes , appeares Time in his man●l● , looking fresh and bl●●he : Yet whiles his eyes did shed some drops of teares , Wherewith he seem'd as he would whet his ●●the . Quoth Time by m●●shall sorrowes be appeased . And now 's the time thou shalt of cares be eased . I did present this Booke which I did writ , Into Times hands , who tooke it and perused it : Yea , but saith Time , thou must discover yet : Who this Dog is , who else will be excused . For able I so clear'd thine eyes to see him , So may not others , yet Time would have all flye him . And for thy verses covertly disclose , The secret sense , and yet doth shadow truth : Explaine this Blacke Dog , who he is in Prose , For more apparant , then thy Poem sheweth . Truth needs no colours , then this Dog by kinde . Make knowne before , as he is knowne behinde . My Sythe , quoth Time , is now prepar'd to cut , There is no sith●●●t Times shall longer dure : Newgates Blacke Dog , must Time to silence put , I le br●●ke his teeth , and make his biting sure . The sh●●es of M●●● on Dogs of cruell kinde , Time shall confound , that beare so bad a minde . Haue thou no doubt , but Time shall set thee free , And 〈◊〉 h●r●after learne ●hee to beware , Of 〈◊〉 Blacke Dog , and doe his dangers flee , G●ve oth●rs w●rning , least like fall their share . S●● to 〈◊〉 world , when thou ●rt freed from hell , Newgates Blacke Dog thou saw , and knew too well . And for thy Poem drawes to a conclusion , Times pl●●s●re is , that thou this Dog expresse : I● shape , in n●tur● , man : yet mens confusion . A madding C●r , who doth from kinde regr●sse . A mothers sonne , and most for to be wondred , Of mothers sonnes ; this Dog hath spoyl'd a hundred . In lowly sort , complaine to highest ●owers , Truth will be heard , and truth must not be hid : With for like wiles , this Dog poore soules devoures , This Dog of me● , desipher I thee bid . And though there be Curs many of his kind● , Say but the truth , and yet leaue nought behinde . When time had said , I from my feare awake Yet had I writ what premises containes : I was no illusion mov'd me this Poem make , But griefes indured , and woes my heart sustaines . Greefe , care , and woe , my silly heart doe clog , Fettered to shame by this Cur Newgates Dog . Now as I haue describ'd him in some sort , As he is fearefull vnto all him see : His devillish practises given to report , And set them downe , as wicked as they be . Here ends my Poem , Newgates Blacke Dog by name , As it deserues either commend or blame . FINIS .