The trauayled pylgrime bringing newes from all partes of the worlde, such like scarce harde of before. Seene and allowed according to the order appointed.

The trauayled Pylgrime , bringing newes from all partes of the worlde , such like scarce harde of before .

Seene and allowed according to the order appointed .

Anno Domini . 1569.

Eccle. 10. The glorie of the riche , of the honorable , and of the poore , is the feare of God .

Prouerbes . 2● . The riche and poore are together , the Lorde is the maker of them all .

TO THE RIGHT WORshipfull Sir William Damsell knight , receyuer generall of the Queenes Maiesties Court of Wardes , and Lyueries . S. B. wysheth most prosperous health , and endlesse felicitie .

AMONG DIuers benefits receyued ( Right worshypfull ) considering wyth my selfe in what order or by what meanes I mought deuyse , to show some part of recompence , thoughfar , to acquite that which I haue receiued , I forthwith called to mind these wordes , Marcus Tulliu● Cicero . Non solum gratis esse debet , qui accepit benificium , verum etiam is cui potestas accipiendi fuit , he ought not onely to be thankefull , which hath receyued a benefit , but also , he to whom , hath bene power of receyuing a benefite , so I confesse , who haue not onely receyued so many benefits at your worships handes , so often as I haue required : but also on your part haue augmented your friendly beneuolence , more then as yet I haue deserued . In consideration hereof , and thinking with my selfe by what means to gratefie some part of your deserued labours towardes me , I thought good to dedicate this my simple and vnlearned trauaile , who hauing nothing else on your worship to bestow , called the trauailed Pilgrim , wherin I haue painted foorth the fonde deuise of man , and the straunge Combats that he is daylie forced vnto , by meanes of this oure feeble nature : showing also howe euery degree shoulde , or at the least wayes ought , to frame themselues , and so aduisedly to watch that we be found vigilant watchmen , aspecting the great & second comming of our lord Iesus Christ , that at what houre the theefe breake in vpon vs , wee be readie armed to withstand the same , reporting also that the sayde Pilgrime bringeth newes out of all partes of the world , by which newes is signified the straunge inuentions of man , which at no time contynueth in one estate 〈◊〉 staye , so long as the vitall breath remaineth within this wretched corps of oures : Furthermore , to consider of this my foresayde enterprise , not that I write this to the intent to correct or amend any fault or faults in other men , but only by way of friendly exhortation , exhorting euery faythfull Christian , to haue such regarde to this their Pilgrimage here on earth , that in the lyfe to come , they may enioy the happie gaine of endlesse felicitie . So right worshipfull the effect of this my simple and vnlearned enterprise being drawne , I mused with my selfe to whome I best might bestowe the same , and knowing none other more fit then your worship , considering the benefits as well present as past , thought good to present the same , beseeching your worshyp to except more my good will , then otherwise the effect of this my simple trauaile , and in so doing I shall not think my labor herein vneffectually bestowed : thus I ende , beseeching the Almightie God to preserue you both now and euer . Amen .

Your humble Orator . S. B.

¶ To the Reader .

THough the matter ( gentle Reader ) conteined in this my simple treatise , be not altogither fruitlesse , but that manye things therein might verye well be amended , yet notwithstanding so farre I presume of thy indifferent iudgement , that thou wilt not be according to the common sort of curious quarellers , a captious or a malipert correctour of the labours or diligent studie of anye to hinder , although in some poyntes thou bee able to correct : but fauourably consider the good will of the wryter , and then if anye thing chaunce contrarie to thy mind , show foorth thy friendly commendations , with such ordred corrections , as may not onely encourage the Author , but also get to thy selfe in lyke effect lyke commendation or praise . It is hard for one to please many : therfore in fewe wordes I haue thought good , to knit togither this my simple worke , called the trauayled Pilgrime , wherein is set foorth the state of man , and the innumerable assaultes , that he is daylie and hourely enuironed withall , not onely with outward or bodily enimies , as losse of goodes , or lyfe , of wyfe , children , or familier friends , which eftsones happens , as the losse of goodes by theft , or fyre , the death of thy friende or familye , by slaunder and murther , these and suche lyke distu●bances , still eyther in the one or other , man is alwayes subiect vnto , yet better to be auoyded , then the inwarde cogitations or thoughts , which daylie by Sathan , man is vexed and moued , for the one may by pacience , in suffering wrongful dealing , oftentimes escape the doings , which otherwise myght else happen to his or there great payne and grieuance : the other must not onely be ouercome with pacience in suffering , but also fayth and good workes must proceede , which be two chiefe causes , that God by his sonne Iesus Christe beyng oure Mediator , doth continuallye heare , not the outward prayers only , but also our inward thoughts so long as true hope wyth these three doth remayne , that is to say , pacience in suffring , fayth in beleeuing , that God in Christ Iesus , is able , & will forgiue the sinnes & offences of all true obedient harts : good works , doth and shall receyue hir reward , which is euerlasting life . And hope then is brought from calamities which she long desired , vnto iocundity & triumphant glory . Thus much gentle Reader . I haue thought good to write concerning the state of man , but whatsoeuer I haue left vnwritten in this my base and simple Epistle , although not altogither it chaunce to please some frowarde braynes , yet as much as I haue thought conuenient , so much haue I written , not that I knowe in my selfe , but that by the wise and learned , many things may be amended : impute therfore the lacke of any thing which may chaunce to discontent Tyme , not to ignorance , but only the full minde and effect hereof to the writer , who thinkes this done sufficient .

Read , but deride not , at merie things laugh not , After mirth cometh sorow , for Momus I care not Farewell in the Lorde . S. B. M.

¶ The childe signifieth good Infancie : the rod , Correction : the auncient or aged man , Reason : the booke , Truth : the armed Knyght , youthfull Courage : the speare , good Gouernment : the shielde , Hope : the sword , Courage : standing in the fielde called Time .

Here the Author beginnes his voyage , being ready armed , bidding Infancie farewell , and now growing by Reason to further possibilitie and strength .

THe mightye Ioue celestiall , when first he tooke in hand , That Chaos huge , he made to fall , and formed so a land , Wherein he set and created , all things as now we sée , First beasts , then man , which he prepard their gouernor to bée , And named him in Eden grounde , Adam , that name he gaue , Where nothing then could him confound , till he a Mate did c●aue . She , Eua , hight , a woman kinde , when he awakte hir sawe , As Innocents no sinne did minde , till Sathan wrought their awe . That Woman first she did consent , the Apple for to prooue , Wherby the serpent did inuent , all ioyes from them to mooue . For their offence they were exilde out of that pleasaunt place , And earth accursed forth did yéelde , the crabbed thome a space . The earth then fayne were they to till , still laboring the ground , Thus sathans drifts them thought to spill , he gaue that deadly wound : Although that Adam did offend , yet God so shewde his grace , A newe Adam he after sent , which did all sinne deface . Such minde hath God alwayes to those , that ioyes his lawes to looue , And such as are his mortall foes , with plagues he doth them prooue : As Pharao that cruell king , which did so sore oppresse The Israelites aboue all thing , and would not them release . It were to long all to recite , I minde them to forgoe , The swallow swift once taken flight , then Auster streight doth bloe , With nipping showres and frosts so colde , few may it long endure , But that once past then doth vnfold the swéete and pleasant showre , Wherby all things do spring and grow , with orient smell most swéete , Till Hyems force himselfe doth show , then Pisces ioyes in déepe . So I as one bereft of ioy , in order mindes to frame , The gliding pace , the state so coy , yet loth were ( one ) to blame . The state of one to nominate , yet all I wish to looke , Conceyue in minde , doe nothing hate , till read ye haue this booke : He that disprayseth ere he know , may well be thought a foole , The Hart the Hind doth time foreshow , yet void from reasons schoole . Of Dolor and Debilitie , these two I chiefly name , The first is hard to vnderstand , the other maketh tame , In bringing youthfull yeares to ende , now know you what he is , Be mindefull therefore what you read , if not , you may soone misse .

¶ The fielde Tyme : he with wings , Thought : the other , the Author : trauailing in the sayde fielde .

In time Thought moueth the Author .

IN Hyems force , both trée and herbe doth vade as rest of life , On sodeyne then to me appeard , the state of worldly strife : As I thus going all alone ( one ) did to me appeare , Awake , quoth he , from pensiue mone , of me haue thou no feare . Both he and I togither went , as friendes a certaine space , Till at the last I did repent , my former time and case , Then stept I forth full sodainly , as one bereft of glorie , And to my minde I did apply to note therof some storie . As afterwardes there shall be séene , with such aduised héede . The state of life I will beginne , thus haue I full decréede . Consider first both life and welth , be mindefull still thereof , For that will bring most perfite health , so shall at thée none scoffe . If that forgetfulnesse endure , no hope there is of gaine , Where state decreaseth be thou sure , bereft from ioy to paine , The time once past , néedes must consume the pleasant orient smell Of trée and herbe that growes on ground , as proofe full well can tell . Likewise all trées that fruite doth beare , in light they show a shade , And time once past straight wil appeare , that al things néeds must vade , So likewise those that vainly spende , their liues they care not how , The wrath of God on such attendes , and age of force must bow . The trée that once cleane withered is , can be by no meanes greene , No more can Age be yong ywisse , it neuer hath bene séene , Conceyue therefore full well in minde , and youthfull time so spende , That when Death comes thou be not blinde , to late then to amende , Néedefull it is also to knowe , and how thy selfe mayst stay , That Dolor and Debilitie , they guide a cruell way , None may escape them by no wayes , these knights so valiant are , Yea Antropos with force them stays , and sharply doth them snare , Most horrible and daungerous , the passage is to sée , With combats great most marueilous , not one away may flée , Till that he be bereft of life , they are so fiercely prest , They neuer cease , but still at strife , at no time take they rest . And Dolorousnesse by his great force , an Thought doth still attend , Debilitie thorow féeblenesse , to death he all doth send , Which death appeares in●isible , with gliding dart most sharpe , The dent thereof the life doth quell , the soule from body part . They neuer cease in working still , which way they best may finde , Both Prince and King they come vntill , thereto they are assignde . Sée now therefore ye vnderstand , the Herault will appeare , That Dolor hée , will thée withstand , of him be not in feare . Sith thou thy selfe hast giuen the charge , I will thée me regarde , In spending youth be not to large , thine enmy is preparde , Who mindeth still thée to inuade , with his great force and strength , Arme thée therfore as I haue sayd , some case to finde at length . Thinkst thou thy selfe to be more stout , than euer Sampsons grace , Or Hercules which went about , that Pluto to deface : Art thou bereft from wisdomes schoole , what Salamon to excéede , Oh caytife base and simple foole , refraine I say with speede . Diomedes with Marshall skill , doth farre excéede the state , What got Absalon by his will , could he from death escape : Not one of all the worthies nine , coulde Dolor once withstande , Prouide therfore all things by Time , still take him by the hande . Sith that the howre draweth nie , be ready at the sounde Of trumpet shrill , with blast most cleere , thine enmies to confounde : The loftie sounde of trumpet blowne , oft warneth to prepare , With speare & shield now all is knowne , of these my words beware .

¶ The armed Knight signifieth true Obedience in all estates , his armour , Strength : the shielde , Hope : the sworde , Courage : the speare , Aduenture : deliuered to the Author , by Thought being present in the fielde called Time .

The Author putting all feare aside , armeth himselfe , and so rideth foorth on his horse called W●ll .

WHen Time had said to me his mind , I pondred then in thought To worke & doe as he assignde , forthwith I armour cought , As 〈◊〉 then forste I put it on , by horned Cinthias light , And armour dight or Phoebus shone , so forth I tooke my flight , The Horse wheron I sate was , Will , whose force few youth may stay , My sworde was , Courage , prest to kill , so rode I on my way . My armour was both tough and strong , of strength it was new made , My shielde also was , Hope , among mine enimies to inuade . My speare was wrought and fabricate , with glittring gold most bright , Thereby that I asswage mought Hate , and put my foes to flight , Thus rode I on couragious , some prowesse for to winne , In passing forth most venterous , I practise did beginne . Two dayes I rode but nothing saw , among the hugie rockes , Not one aduenture worth a straw , so voyde I Momus mockes , Whereby I might recite at large , to please the Readers minde , I let that passe and put in charge , that Thought to me assignde : It is not n●edefull here to tell , my dolefull woe and paine , A thousand griefes aye set to quell , and Time did me disdaine , But when I had escapte the wayes , being past the mountaines great , A goodly greene there did appeare , which worldly pleasure hight . So much the place delighted me , my selfe I cleane forgat , Till that I did Aduenture sée , in midst of pleasures plat , A knight appeared there in sight , of corps both huge and great , Upon a stéede all , Ire , he hight as blacke as any Ieat . And towards me he came a mayne , with countnance fierce and grim , Regard , quoth he , in time , refraine , of me thou naught mayst win , Sée thou with spéede thy selfe prepare , for I will haue no naye , My might to prooue , if that thou dare , else here I will thée staye . Forthwith I graunted his request , but first his name to tell , And then to proue if he thought best , so would I with him mell , With irefull speach and loftie voyce , he aunswerde me in haste , Disagreement , who first hath choyse , all fleshe to stroy and waste , I Disagreement all would deflowre , from quiet peace and rest , Through Eluttonie encrease my powre , all other I detest , Not one if once I take in hande , from me may scarce escape , I rent and plucke as small as sand , nay few to me dare prate , Sith thou art not Debilitie , nor Dolor which is fell , Thy force I hope to mollifie , I now thée know full well : Debilitie and Dolor eke , for these two doe I seeke , Who kéepes the wood of Antropos , and cause all flesh to gréete : Debilitie to most is knowne , by sicknesse or by age , Bicause the state in man consumes , to death his corps doth gage , But Dolor now is verie straunge , which may or may not bée Without corruption of that , wherein one may it sée . Debilitie therfore to him , I haue so ioynde in kinde , That Dolor he may well be callde , a foe to friendly minde , And why ? bicause all flesh is loth with goodwill hence to part , Therefore I haue thought good as now , to ioyne them as one hart . Being both togither , are as one , still striuing man to win , When youthful yeres are gone and past , then age nedes must begin , With hollow eyen and visage grim , and countnance wan and pale , Thus Ioue aboue all times assignes , this newes account not stale . From those two , minde I to escape , if that by power I maye , Thou mayst be sure thou commest to late , to vanquish or to fraye , With that he spake with eger moode , as one distraught of wit , Though none of those , yet sure their friende , togither are we knit . Thy selfe defende , if that thou can , I minde thy force to prooue , Make no delay , doe surely stande , from me thou shalt not mooue : Our Speares on rest , we both fast set , ech other so did méete , That both to grounde we fell therwith , and after fought on féete . His Speare was shod with little Wit , wherewith he downe me cast , That counterbuffe I féele as yet , and shall while life doth last . Our speares at once cleane broken were , with swords ech other strake , So fierce was I , none could me feare , till Time my state did shake : With the licour of foolishnesse ( therewith ) were both swords wrought , With vaine desire and wilfulnesse , ech other strake aloft : The strokes were verie straunge to heare , that ech to other sent , And straight to me there did appeare , the ydle life so spent . Thus still togither did we fight , as fooles to striue with Time , Till at the last appeared night , yet Cinthia gaue hir shine , Whereby we both might well perceyue , all goodnesse crept away , By Diligence then was I faine , to craue as guide and stay .

¶ The Author fighteth with Disagreement , the speare that Disagreement hath broken , is called Littlewit , the Authors speare is Aduenture , both swoordes in thys place signifie foolishnesse , wherewith eche striketh other , till pleasant Ladie Memorie defendeth the Author from Disagreement , in the fielde called Time .

Here Disagreement speaketh to the Author , and so both beginnes the combat .

STill Disagreement me assaylde , whose force so still en●rcast , His restlesse strokes so did me quaile , that fain I would haue ceast : I sawe no way how to escape , from him I might not start , Nor knew not how to finde a mate , to ayde me from my smar● . And being thus in pensiue care , still looking for my ende , Deuoyde from ioy as one thréede bare , nought hauing to defende : That lustie Ladie Youth forth came , on whom I did depende , His strokes she counted but as game , whereby we made an ende . Hir feruent loue did so me ayde , hir strength so did me staye , Of nought by hir I was afrayde , so rode I on my waye . As I thus prest was forth to ride , againe she did me call , And willed me with Time to bide , to sée what would befall . To Disagreement thus she sayde , doe graunt to my request , And let him passe , not once denayde , for so I thinke it best , To see more of the worldly state , some prowesse for to winne , Refraine therefore no time abate , sith Youth doth now beginne . He aunswerde me most currishly , sith that I must of force , A sure foundation see thou be , By the Cap that Disagrement giueth to Memorie , to deliu●● to 〈…〉 is signified 〈…〉 of 〈…〉 meanes possible 〈…〉 . to Age haue good remorse , This Cappe here take , a thing of price , most méetest is and good . To driue away all fonde deuice , a salue to nourish blood . It shall be like a springing Well which nourisheth the grounde , Euen so all griefe it will expell , and fonde deuice confounde . When that I had this Cappe receiude , I was so glad of chéere , Away with hast , full well appeasde , I thought none then my péere . The fatall chaunce and destenie of Herpelus his loue , Auailed not to molifie , although he long did proue , A thousande moe I coulde recite , yea , thousand thousandes sure , Which are so fonde in their delight , deuoyde from ease or cure . Where fickle fantasie moues the minde , of fond desirde fooles , Their youthfull race soone waxeth blinde , & falles betwixt two stooles : For he that on two stooles will sit , may chaunce misse on them both , Where one will serue it is vnfit , such fooles who will not loth ▪ Who euer in one age more sawe , of vaine superbitée ? Regarde of lawes who standes in awe , as all full well may s●● . So many as will venterers be , your armour sée be fast , Of Faith , Hope , Loue , and Charitie , then life be sure to tast . Thus by the way I doe thee warne , regarde my words full well , Then be thou sure to voyde the harme , of paines infernall hell : By order seene , shall euery state , in what case here they toyle , And how thou mayst thy selfe abate , from Sathans drifts and soyle . Thus striued I so long with Time , till Youth was almost gone , And Thought to me so did encline , that wo began my song : In suffring combats manifolde , still hoping Time to rule , Till Time in Courage waxed bolde , then gan I streight to pule , As one forsakte , departed I , not knowing where to rest , In dolefull wo I gan to crie , Thought did mée so molest , Then rode I forth some way to finde , and night approched néere , And Vesper bright began to shine , whereby I saw full cléere A house or place , most faire to sée , which did my hart reioyce , The way thereto likened might be , to subtill Nimphias voyce , A Laberi●th I thought it sure , or some infernall place , The more I sought , Age did procure , all Youth from me to chace : Yet at the length through much adooe , the way at last I founde , Approching néere , I streight did bow , to heare some voice or sounde . And thus still musing in great griefe , I streight espying one , To whome I called for reliefe , which heard my griefe and mone .

¶ Here the Author by long trauaile meeteth with Vnderstanding , and requireth lodging : Obedience or true Diligence , guideth his horse called Will , in the fielde called Time .

Here the Author speaketh to Vnderstanding .

IF thou saluation hopest to haue , then graunt me my request , And licence me sith now I craue , and doe me not detest : For that thou vnderstanding hight , of Gods eternall grace , So much the more I doe delight , to see thy splendent face , Whereby that I may grace attaine , my foes for to subdue , Thereby to voyde ech endlesse paines , which else may me ensue . Therefore to lodge with thée all night , is sure my whole desire , That I by thée may haue some sight , nought else I doe require . His aunswere was both méeke and kinde , and thus to me he sayde , Welcome thou art with hart and minde , be sure I will thée ayde : Scarce one , there doth to me resort , for ( almost ) all is gone , And fewe or none comes to my port , thus liue I all alone . My sonne I will thée entertaine , the best wise that I can , Twise welcome say I once againe , now giue to me thy han : Then foorth he led me to a place , which séemed verie straunge , Wherein I saw Ioy and Solace , in euery corner raunge . The noyse of pleasant harmonie , so much re●oyst my hart , That I forgat my sorrowes past , with all my griefe and smart . Forthwith he streight vnarmed me , and did on me a goune . Which hight all feruent modestie , mine enmies to resoune . I neuer was before so lodgde , nor saw so worthie an Host , In no place where I ●rst had bene , in Citie , towne nor Cost , All things which néeded there I had , my corpes for to suffice , And Infancie that pretie ladde brought water for mine eies . Whereby I might perceyue and see the cléere light from the darke , Twise happiest truly ( thought ) to be , from me as then depart : Yet not so cleane gone but by stealth , he touchte me now and than , With sundrie cares of worldly welth , oft had me by the han . The thought of worldly welth nor gaine , might not me once molest , So long as Reason rulde the vaine , which froward will detest , Thus he and I togithers went , into a secret place , Where I to him gaue full consent , sinnes motion cléere to chace , Through singlenesse of life to be , in perfite loue and peace , Alwayes continuing to the ende , my selfe for to releace , From all woe and calamitie , which in all flesh doth raine , In the supernall throne to be , from all woe , griefe and paine : Wel doing goes farre out of way , where faith is not in place , And faith alone is voyde of staye , yet both obtaineth grace , Who well doth liue , all vertues hath , then néedes hée not to feare , With orient smell , and pleasant bath where mercy doth vpreare . From worldly pleasure and delight , of God to be in awe , Though sathan séeketh with al spite , from him he may none draw , Not one of them which Christ doth choose , shall perish and decaye , Not one he will at all refuse , that flies their former waye , And calleth vnto him for grace with constant minde and zeale , For such he doth prouide a place , his mercy thus doth deale , To euery man so equally he doth bestow his loue , Therefore his lawes doe magnifie , who sittes in throne aboue . Thus when he had sayd all his minde , he tooke me by the hande , And brought me to a place where he , bid marke and vnderstande : Such cheare , quoth he , I haue prouide , as shall you well suffice , The Bread of life , the Cup of health , sée you it not despise . The liuely worde of God I meane , which saues all men by grace , The Cup of health and feruent zeale , all errors forth doth chase . Content your selfe with this a while , thereof take first your taste , Ere long you shall drinke of the wine that shall not fret nor waste .

¶ Vnderstanding maketh his banquet , and comforteth the Author : true Diligence furnisheth the table in the place of Reason .

Here the Author being moued with great desire , requireth of Vnderstanding what his name is : which , being as yet to him vnknowne .

WHen that to me he all had said , togithers we did walke , Till at the last I mused how , I might deuise in talke To know his name and whence he was , my whole desire was set , I coulde no longer it forbeare , nor nought my thought could let . And how he in that place first came , to know was my desire , At length I spake as came in minde , his name I did require : Full louingly he aunswerde me , saying he would recite , And how that he first thither came , by whose strength powre & might . Sith that to me your name is knowne , I also mine shall show , With hart and minde I will reueale , and also let you know . Vnderstanding , the verie same , which earst you said you sought , Most knowne am I in euerie place , and yet of fewest cought . Bicause the way of ioylesse life is brode and verie plaine , I haue made here my dwelling place , all scorners to refraine . The bread whereon I daily féede , is sobrietie and peace : The wine which I also receiue , is Loue , which hate doth cease . Thus liue I here without disease , nothing doth me annoye , By grace diuine I sustaine those , that to my words employe : Yet sinne to me is very sharpe , which daily I pursue , Whereby I may the sooner get , to Ioue that Iudge most true , Which sittes aloft in splendent throne , of chrystall light most cleare , In glorious ioyes magnificent , among his Saints most deare . To him therfore I giue the prayse , Iehouah , thou art hée , On whome in hart I doe delight , thy splendent face to sée . With such delight thy selfe prepare , sith I thy state doe knowe , Fro me thou nothing mayest hide , as after I will showe . And sith thou art but yong in yeares , not yet come to full strength , Let Reason therfore be thy guide , Reason speaketh to the Author . he will thée ease at length . Remember well what I haue said , and do it not forget , Though horror fell doe thée molest , at no time sée thou fret . As valiant knights , séeke to defende , the Citie , Towne or Nation , So fight thou still with all thy powre , against all variation . Of all false and vsurped powers , from such sée thou decline , As souldiers fierce that feares no showres , but tarie for the time , Not fearing threats of worldly powre , but him which can destrye Both body , soule , yea , all on earth , or turne thou can thine eye . Put on thine armour now with spéede , sith forward thou must goe , And strength thee with the shielde of faith , against thy mortall foe , Debilitie is alwayes prest , awaiting till thou come , To carie thée as his captiue , from him thou mayst not run : Debilitie and Dolor both so sore will the assayle , That from their hands thou mayst not scape , they minde thée sure to quaile : So rule thy selfe in time therfore , the lawes of God regarde , The lesse thou néedest then to feare , although they be preparde ▪ Seing now I haue declarde to thée , a time thou mayst auoyde , Both Dolor and Debilitie which earst thée still annoyde . If once on thée they doe take holde , away thou mayst not flie , Nor to retire , it is but vaine , although for helpe thou crie . But in the enterprise thou goest about , thou shalt attaine , To get such praise as few hath done , if me thou not disdaine , Dolor hée that Champion stout , euen hée séeketh thée to let : If thou him wynne , for laude thereof , great fame I will thée get . And for as much as ( good intent ) thereby thou mindest to prooue , Take thou this speare of Regiment , thy foes therby to mooue , In length of time thou must decrease , thou mayst not kéepe one stay , Yet force thou not this state of thine , thereat doe not dismay . Thou shalt be able to endure , if thou my words obay , Cease not therfore , but put in vre , let nothing now thée fray , That now when Dolor doth approch , then strike him if thou can , So for a time thou mayst escape , my words now rightly scan : Yet one thing more doe well regarde , before thou take in hande , Laude God alway , who hath thée made , doe not his word withstand : Sée that in chamber secretly , thou alwayes giue him prayse , Then will he thée defende and kéepe , at all times and assayes , Let hart and thought agrée in one , sith he of naught thée made , And thanke him for his benefits , from them at no time vade , And yet on our behalfe nothing deserued is , whereby That ought at all we sure should haue , or ioye in throne on hie . When supper was thus finished , and thanks giuen for our meate , Streight way we rose to walke a while , more matter to intreate : Thus when we had the Euening spent , great griefe it was to mée , For to forgo the sight of him , which earst before did sée . Unto a chamber faire and swéete , Here the Author is brought by Reason to his bed called rest . he brought me to a bed , All rest it hight , whereon was layde a pillow for mine head : I neuer was before so layde , Rest there so did me staye , That I forgat betime to rise , till Sol foreshewde the daye . No sooner I awaked was , out of my slumbring sléepe , The noise of Birdes made me to muse , whose notes and tunes were swéete , To sée what sluggish sléepe could doe , when man desireth reast : Euen like an Asse bereft from wit , compared to a beast . Full soone I start then fro my bed , as one which lost had Time , Still searching how I might deuise to flie my former crime : With that I met Obedience , which brought me to a place , Where I did sée the Vertues all , a wo●drous pleasant case . Whose pulchritude did farre excell Procerpines looke or grace , So splendent were their ornaments , that none might them deface . Iustice iustly there did iudge , both matters right and wrong , Fortitude and strength , also with Loue , sang there hir song . Whose notes surpassed the Nightingale , she did me so enflame , That I desired still to heare the swéete and pleasant Dame . She hight the loue of Gods word pure , his name she still did prayse , Both night and day at no time ceast , still lauding all true wayes . There Temperance ●ate , and Faith also , with Charitie and Hope , Ech one with other there did sit , and Concorde set the note : The harmonie which I there heard , would make a hart of stone Relent , and turne from his sinne past , and cause him sore to mone To sée the happie life and state that they alwayes were in , And then to vewe all mortall flesh so burdened with sin : There ioyes did not so much me glad , as sorrowes did forth slide , When that I calde to minde , that I might not there still abide . Sinceritie and godly Zeale to Gods precepts diuine , With Innocencie , Grace and Light , as one , so did encline , Sinceritie is harde to finde , and Zeale from most is fled , Mercie and Compassion now , is thought to be neare dead . And all true promises are broke , of few , or none is kept : Good wayes are scarce regarded now , su●erbitie doth let , Most mischiefe now beares all the ●way , the more we may lament , If that in time none doe foresée , be sure then to be shent . In steade of concorde now doth raigne all wrath and cruell hate , Among most men euerie where , with peace are at debate : When that I heard Obedience declare the state of Time , I loth was then to take in hande , least I should fall in crime . So many foes about me were , that it was straunge to sée , In euery corner where I walkte , I saw no place was frée . With yll will from that heauenly noyse , which I before had harde , Departed I while time did last , and Thought me wholy snarde . As I thus musing with my selfe , my former friende me met , In quiet chamber where I lay , by me himselfe did set , And how I likte my place that night , whether ought did me molest , I gaue him thanks and tolde him then , to me it was the best . That worthie Champion Strabo hée , Polichro . lib. 2. cap. 1. sayth , that Strab● saw the ships of Punie when they were . 135. mile from him . felt no such ease by sight , Nor yet the puissant Iason eke , for all his force and might : The one in sight surpassed all , the other for his loue , Aduenture did both life and lim , as stories well can proue . Thus thanking him for my repast , which he to me had showed , With amiable countnance , he thought it well bestowed . Saying to me with chéerefull voyce , you may not hence depart , Til you haue séene things straunge & old , which will reuiue your hart . Such treasure straunge haue I to show , of which if once you sée , For to depart from sight therof , vnwilling will you bée , And yet no Coyne , Siluer nor Golde , no Gem nor Ouch so cléere , Maye once compare their state to that , you neuer saw his péere , With that he opened wide a doore , which séemed very straunge , Both dark & dim , where mourning stood , & grudge about did raunge : The locke wherof , was made of Glasse , the Key all Knowledge hight , ●he sight therof did me amase , till I espied light . The roume was large and verie fine , replete with colours faire , With characts straunge & pictures wrought , that shined like the aire , The sight therof so did me quaile , wherwith I started backe , But Vnderstanding did me stay , quoth he , what doste thou lacke ? Dismay thée not in any wise , giue eare I will thée showe , From tristfull cares thy selfe applie , let Reason with thée growe , The sooner mayst thou Knowledge get , and purpose eke attaine , To follow me I thinke it best , therby the more to gaine .

¶ Here Vnderstanding sheweth the Author a number of Vertues in the house called Reason , to withdrawe him from vaine delites , declaring the daungers that doth ensue : that done , the Author trauaileth further .

After the Author had seene euery Vertue , and considered the worthinesse of them , imagineth how he may keepe in the house of Reason , not minding to trauaile any further , till Vnderstanding moueth him to proceede in his iorney .

OH Venus faire , and Vesper bright , which showes the day to come , And gladneth all such as delight to see that pleasant sonne : That Phoebus faire , that Titan eke , nay Sol that pleasant light , Which doth surpasse all lights on earth , who may such stile recite . The splendent hue and pulchritude of faire Helena shée , May not compare to Sol in sight , that may in no wise grée : Bicause the one was thrall to death , the other frée from paine , Therfore shall Sol still haue the praise , and Helen I disdaine . A thousand Helenes now doth reigne in pulchritude and shape , Yet verie fewe that mindes to leaue , that , sinne for to escape . The more may all true harts lament , to see so little care , Of people nowe in these our dayes , that will no time beware . Examples therfore will I show , to ech state and degree , Of straunge things past , which earst hath bene to al that will you sée , And how the state of things hath bene among the wilfull sort , And pleasure eke of vertuous men , I also will report . When wrathfull Ire first tooke in hande , that wilfull Cain to moue , Then cruell Enuie wrought in brest , not Abel more to loue , And why ? bicause his sacrifice did still descende to grounde , Therfore that wilfull caytife hée , sought Abel to confounde : And when he had his brother slaine , then gan he streight to flie , Euen like an abiect voyde of grace , as though none did him spie : Then streight way that celestiall Ioue to wicked Cain did call , To know where Abel was become , and who began the brall . For that thou hast thy brother slaine , an abiect shalt thou bée , And all thy life long still in doubt of euery plant and trée . Debilitie shall thée possesse , thou shalt not once escape , Sith thou hast slaine thy brother deare , I therfore will thée hate . This Cain was he that first found out , which way the lande to till , And was the first which did inuent , by murther man to kill . Therfore as vacant lies his race , yet he much issue had , And when he was fled from the Lord , in Nod , he there him clad . The rest I minde not to recite , now forwarde will I goe , To showe in order many things , and eke that mortall foe , Mysandros he , that cruell fiende , which séekes all flesh to spill , If he once may the maistrie get , then bréedes he nought but yll . God graunt therefore all Christian harts , his lawes to haue in minde , And that we may with hart and will , detest all horrors blinde : To practise therfore in the life , all vertuous facts to vse , No other way is there to finde , therfore the light doe chuse . Remember well the valiant déedes , that Sampson did , when hee The Lion fierce first slew with might , as plainly we may sée : When that he vnto Thamnates went , not farre out of the way , The Lion fierce did him assaile , bereft he was from pray . And also when that he in mirth , a Riddle did declare , Amidst the banquet where they sate , with all their gorgeous fare , Not one of thirtie could assoyle , nor once tell what it ment , Till they by slily drifts had wonne , of hir which did repent . He twise by women was deceyude , for all his force and strength , And by his foes so handled was , he lost his eyes at length . But when his locks were growne againe , three thousand sure he flew , And brake the piller that chiefe stay , of those which did him vew , And thus through indignation , to voyde the former wrong , The Philistines he so did annoye , that dolefull was their song . By Dolor so they alwayes sought , by yre they still did flie , And he to ende his restlesse dayes , amidst his foes did die : That fonde foole Dianira shée , in hoping loue to finde , A shirt enuenomde she did sende , not witting to hir minde , In hope to haue got Hercules with hir againe to bée , And he therwith was poysoned , himselfe he could not frée . And to be brent in such a flame , by Dolor euer was , That Nessus fell , hir did deceyue , to late she cride alas : As one bereft from worldly ioye , when that he felt the smart , In firie flame he did consume , both body bones and hart . The mightie Caesar in likewise , to death full soone was brought , By such as he nothing suspect , full soone his death they sought : With bodkins sharpe they did him pierce , till all his bloud was spent , In stede of pitie irefull yre , this murther did inuent . Thus flickring Fame doth bost abrode , in euery lande and coste , The cruell facts of froward mindes , among both least and moste , This Tragedie is not vnknowne , nor may not slide from minde , Refraine therfore all irefull hate , show not thy selfe vnkinde . The worthie Alexander king , Cassand●r was sonne to Antipater which poysoned the king Alexander in Babilon . that conquerour so great , Was poysned by Cassandrus as he sate at his meat , Which poyson was so venemous , that nothing might it holde , Except the hoofe of some horse foote , wherin they did it folde . Antipater first tooke in hand , by Dolor he most fell , Who séekes in euery land and cost , all states to vaunt and quell , Lament ye Gods in Chrystall throne , let fall your brinish teares , With parched face and bloubred eyne , at wrath doe stop your eares . Where is become that Troian stout , the worthie Hector hée , Bereft full soone by fatall chaunce in stories we may sée . That worthie Gréeke Achilles he , at Troian siege was slaine , Two worthy Champions of renowne , lo , death is now their gaine . Such is the force of Dolor fell , so fierce is he in fight , That none on earth may him withstand , his powre is such , & might , The brasen gates of Troian towne , they might not long endure , When that Debilitie was come , to death then did procure . I minde also to nominate the worthie Romaine eake , Plutarchus in Romana historia ad M. Vinicium sayth , that one Titius slew Pampey , but Polichronicon , that yong Ptolomie did cut of his head , and sent it to Iulius Cesar think●ng to haue done him great pleasure , but he was therwith verie sorie . Pompey by name , which lost his head by Ptolomeus feate , When Pompeius came vnto his Court , desiring him of ayde , Forthwith he tooke from him his ring , and causde him to be stayde . The loftie and couragious hart of worthie Hanniball , Might not withstand the poysned ring , to late for cure to call : When he on fingar once had set , then streight began his paine , So ended he his life also , in earth his corps remaine . Likewise Agamemnon he , by meane of his false wife , Was slaine through Engist crueltie , and so bereft from life , His long absence at Troian siege , did not hir like a whit , Ne lusty Youth could not asswage , thus she to vice was knit . The like sequele made an ende of Holofernes stout , His tyrannie coulde not preuaile , nor eke his powre or rout : By Iudith he to ende was brought , euen subiect vnto death , After much mirth and i●litie , full soone he lost his breath . That worthie Quéene and Matron shée , whose praise is without ende , Did séeke alwayes hir owne to saue , and countrie to defende . With godly zeale and feruent minde , she to the Lord did call , And he as Iudge omnipotent , by hir destroyed them all . With hammer and with nayle that Cicera was slaine , By Iahel she that worthy wife , whose fame shall still remaine , Wherby the Israelites as then destroyde their mortall foes , Loe , thus can God doe when he list , Debilitie disclose . And Ioab with his dagger sharpe , did Abner pierce to hart , When he thought least of present death , full soone began his smart : Thus cankerd yre doth alwayes lurke , till he hath brought to passe , Not fearing him whose fatall stroke , doth make him crie alasse . Goliah that Philistian , what got he by his strength , By Dauid he was put to flight , for all his force at length : It is not in the strength of man to doe what thinkes him best , Therfore regarde the lawes of God , so shall you finde most rest . Hammon he was iudgde by right , sith he a gallowes made , Thereon to hang as reason woulde , for that he would enuade , To rule and doe as he thought best , through pride he was detest : And Mardocheus was preserude , for Hester looude him best . Bicause he was both true and iust , and one that feared God , Therfore she did preserue and kéepe him from that cruell rod . Who therfore séekes an others fall , doth oft himselfe disease , And féeles the like to come to passe , when naught may else appease . A thousand mo I could recite , if néede should so require , But these I thinke sufficient , where reason hath desire . God graunt all men the truth to loue , and so to run ech race , In the supernall heigth aboue , to haue a byding place : But such as will the Worldlings feare , and not the Lorde aboue , Be sure that such shall neuer sée , the ioyes of life to proue : Feare God and those that preach the truth , the other count as vaine , And then be sure to rest in ioyes , when others shall in paine . Vnderstanding saide to me , Here Understanding giueth the Author charge to be mindefull of that which is shewed . the fourth part is vnséene , And things of worthie Memorie , which long agoe hath béene . But for this time , this shall suffice , from hence we will depart , And sée that you in any wise , doe not forget in hart : But rather sée thou meditate , or contemplate in minde , These worthie notes not to forget , as earst I haue assignde , Sée that you do , your selfe employe , let Time not from you slide , Encrease doe you sanguinitie , with Loue , your former guide . And so we came as friendes , from out of place where wée Had long togithers communed , of ech state and degrée , The house of Reason so it hight , where Iustice true doth bide , Mercie and Compassion eke , not one from thence doth slide . As we came forth with whole Iudgement and wise Consideration , I pondred then what things I saw , by Wisedomes sage narration , Displeasant gan delights to spring , with most assured doubtfulnesse , With painfull pangues & dolefull care , appered then Disquietnesse . Bicause I had not séene the rest , a griefe it was to mée , For that I thought the greater part in Time I might not sée . When that from out of place we were , amasde I was to thinke , Of Dolor fell which would assaile , and with his force me linke . Debilitie as then not neare , which made me lesse to feare , Ne yet no part or show therof , against me did vpreare : And also Vnderstanding he , so saide to me his minde , That if I would not from him start , Here Understanding comforteth the Author . no time would be vnkinde . By me thou shalt know all the force , of fierce Debilitie , And how he doth order mankinde , from eche state and degrée , And what the armor is that he , is fortified with all , And at what time he doth subuert , and whom he first doth call . Not one that féeble is and weake , his force may once abide , No Fort nor Fortresse may withstand , nor none may from him slide . The sight of Banner once displayde , scarce one dares him withstande , In no place where I erst haue bene , on sea and eke on lande . When frosen harts with fonde desire , doe thinke to ouer run , Then Antropos like flaming fire vpon them soone doth come , Whose force is such , the time once past , the corps then comes to dust , To irefull yre a boyling bath , loe , this is full discust . The Spider labors still to make , a web to snare the flies , So Sathan he attendant is , with falshoode and with lies , To catch in trap if that he can , and by what meanes to get , The simple soule into his power , he daily layes his net . When we thus ended had our talke , straight made I preparation , My selfe to arme , I then thought best , auoyding desolation : For all the haste I might not passe , till I had broke my fast , By Reason he I tooke my leaue , departing so at last . A thousande thankes I gaue him then , for my repast and chéere , And promist him assuredly , before him to appéere , At no time to forget the wordes , which he to me had sayde , If I once might from daungers scape , which made me sore afrayde . Thou Reader mark what this doth meane , from vice I do thée warne , By figured shew thy life to mende , thy selfe to kéepe from harme : Although thou finde that seemeth straunge , as Dolor , Time , & Zeale , Such messengers they represent , all vice they warne to quele . Debilitie doth signifie , the inward griefe of minde , Which doth decrease through cruell thought , therto are most assignd : Then Dolor he doth represent , the carking care of man , Whose gréedie minde séekes all to get , still doing what he can , In all estates both hie and lowe , they loue so worldly mucke , That when they shal depart this life , their sinne from life doth pluck : The life I meane which lasteth still , in the supernall throne , Where Gods elect in rest doth dwell , from all wo , griefe and mone , Beare well in minde , all that is past , the better shalt thou knoe , In that which restes for to be read , to rid thée from thy foe .

The Author by Reason taketh his iourney , and receyueth the Speare of Regiment .

Will , his horse no sooner feeling himselfe ready to iourney , beginnes to runne in the fielde of Worldly pleasure , showing himselfe so couragious , that to staye his wilfull boldnesse the Author is sore vexed and w●ried , yet at the length through much a doe , the Author forceth him to staye .

FOrthwith I leapt vpon my horse , which ready was preparde , Will , hée hight , which fewe may rule , as earst I haue declarde . Thus being ready forth to iourne , he gaue to me a Speare , The which was shod with Regiment , my foes to quell and feare . Which friendly Reason willed me , and Vnderstanding eak● , Both gaue me charge , in any wise , not once their lawes to breake . Thus iournyng forth with courage good , till I espide a straight : The present Time , it called was , which mindes on none to wait . To some the way is large & brode , yea long ere they can finde The ende therof , such is their lot , by Ioue aboue assignde : To other some both straight and short , and soone they come to ende , Lo , what is man to striue with Time ? on Ioue therfore depende . Marke well where riches doth abounde , the Time so steales awaye , And causes many in the ende , to perish and decay : Bicause that such haue more regarde , vnto the wordly mucke , And time once past to late to call , example of the Bucke , Which Esope long ago declarde , that praisde so much his hornes , So fell at strife with his smal legs , Esopi fabulae . that streight was staid with thornes . The yelping voice and sound of dogs , on sodeine made him start , And crabbed horns which he so praisd , both wrought his deth & smart . Such men therfore as will not sée , and haue regarde in time , May likened be to Esopes Hart , that at his legges did pine : Leaue off therefore from vaine delights , least they at length you staye , And leade you from the way of life , to late then to dismaye . But fonde desired Wilfulnesse , oft thinks it ouerpast , When oftentimes he scarce doth touch , and he then at his last : Both pleasure and felicitie , from Time so fléetes awaye , Euen as the winde is left behinde , vnto their owne decaye . Thus leauing off from troublous thought , Here the Author is weried by his horse will , in the middest of the fielde called worldly pleasure . I gan againe to minde The iourney , which I tooke in hande , and how I was assignde , Not once to stay till I had bene in euery land and coste , Wherby that I such newes might bring , as well to least as moste . As I began to vew the fielde , my Horse then named Will , Began to run with such great force , no Dale he sparde nor Hill , Till he attainde in middest of plaine , then gan him selfe to shake , My armes and handes so weried was , that straight began to ake : As I behelde me rounde about , the first that I there sawe , Was a Knight with courage stout , of whome I stoode in awe : His standing was both stiffe and strong , well weaponed and sure , With valiant courage me abode , in armour bright and pure . With Trauaile he so armed was , his Horse was called Paine , And Shielde also faire painted eke , with watch that doth disdaine , The heauie minde and slumbring sléepe , which oft on men doth fall : Be ready therfore I you rede , regarde him that doth call . His Cote was of a certaine Maile , the best and surest sure , That could be sounde by Suffrance , and constant Zeale most pure : By semblan● show of his attire , some trauailer to bée , Which from some battell was escapte , as Reason showde to mée . As I behelde him thus , me thought it good to stay a time , To sée if that he would assayle , or vse vnlawfull crime : As I thus musing with my selfe , to me he came amaine , With courage stout his horse gan run , which earst was called Paine .

¶ Age here beginneth to make battaile with the Author , in the fielde of worldly pleasure .

The Author after long fight , yeeldeth him selfe to Age , and receyueth his counsell , promising to fulfill all such couenants , as Age hath giuen charge withall , and so taking his leaue , proceedeth on his iourney .

FOrthwith my Speare I set on Rest , ech other strongly stroke , That therewithall to ground we fell , & both our speares we broke : The dent of stroke did not dismay so much our strength and might , But that full quickly we arose , and strongly gan to fight , Euen like vnto a valiant knight before me did vpstart , With Falcon strong began to strike , wherewith he made me smart : And I as yet not voyde from strength , with trunchion of my Speare Let slie amaine with courage eke , not yet vanquisht by feare , So long as Regiment , my Speare , did holde and was vnbroke , So long did I the valiant knight , kéepe off by dent of stroke , But when he by his puisiance , my Speare had all to rent , Then did decrease my former strength , which Ioue aboue had lent . Thus fighting still he watched how , some mortall wounde to giue , But I by Regiment did defende , that he me could not grieue : His furiousnesse to me was such , that wonder was to sée , To recompence I showed the same , amaine I strokes let flée . When he espide my courage so , that I tooke no regarde , A new assault he gan on me , that draue me to my warde : His Falcon strong and sharpe also , did me so much annoye , That to defende then was I faine , my selfe so to employe . Full many a stroke I did awarde , till all my Speare was rent : I then was faine to draw my sword , yet loth for to relent , Although he séemde to vanquishe me , I did the best I mought , Till he so strake vpon my head , that faine I was to stoupe . This combat was in such sort fought , that nought remained whole , Both flesh and armour sore was cut , thus Age doth deale his dole . My shielde with strokes almost he claue , whereon was all my staye , As yet he coulde me not subuert , nor once my hope dismaye . Thus eche of vs still laboured , the vtmost of our powre , But lacking breath were faine to staye , the space of halfe an howre : Full glad was I and 〈◊〉 wise , to leaue this cruell fight , Till we attained had some strength , and so recouerde might . As I thus breathing on the ground , full well then did beholde , That g●i●y Age which we ass●ide , with countnance grim and bolde , Then with my selfe I 〈…〉 , how I might know , where hée Did most remaine , and in what coste , as after you shall sée . WIth Loue so much enflamde I was , that streight to him I spake , O Knight most worthy sayde I then , my loue to thée doe take , And show to me if that thou please , Corrineus came and arriued with Brute at the Ile of Totnesse in Cornwall , and there in wrastling , slew Goginagog a Gyant , which there inhabited , as sayth Polychronicon . &c. of Corrineus came the name of Cornwall , and Cornishmen . Some affirme that Cornwall came of Cornu a borne , bicause it is fashioned like a horn in circuite or compasse , which may so be : but bicause the first is the older , I doe suppose that to be the truest . thy name and eke thy place , And then as friendes we hope to grée , from yre , to ioyes solace . If thou wilt show thy name to me , to satisfie my minde , Demaunde the like if thée it please , I ready am assignde , To show to thée the like againe , graunt me now my request , And from henceforth thou shalt me finde , obedient vnto rest . He aunswerde me with héedfull speach , with words most soft and wise , I am of royall bloud discend , and wilfull youth despise , I am of more knowne on the earth , than euer Hector was , Or Corrin stout which slew by might , the Giant tough as brasse , My proper name is called Age , the Register of Truth , Which notes the time of euery one , wherby great good ensuth , No force of youth may me withstande , although he doe excell , In Marshall feates and prowes eke , though thousands he doe quell . This plaine of Time , which thou art in , not one may ouergoe , But by my leaue and ayding helpe , therby the way to knoe , For he that thinkes from me to scape , his labour is in vaine , To striue with me he doth but get , great sorrow , griefe and paine . Perforce to me hey néedes must come , there is no saying nay , Except they die in youthfull yeares , then come they not this way : What froward and malignant foole , would séeme to striue with Age , When lustie youth I win with force , and make him serue as Page . And forasmuch as thou art now , thus fallen on my hande , Thy selfe in time doe yeelde to me , thou mayst not me withstande , My puissant force thou soone shalt finde , if thou wilt not relent , An aunswere quickly therfore giue , least after thou repent . When he to me had sayde these words , me thought I felt as still , A remnant left of youthfull strength , whereby I fearde no ill , With that he gaue defiance stout , wherby I set no store , So gan the battaile much more fell , than all the time before . His Falcon houge did so me daunt , my Speare then being broke , Whereon was grounded all my might , no more to giue a stroke . When thus my force was broken cleane , then gan I to dismay , Yet fighting still the best I coulde , while Courage did me stay . And after this the easier , to bring me to decaye , Frome he tooke my shielde of hope , without further delay : By dent of Falcon valiant , so sore did me pursue , Without resistance at the length , by state of age I grue . Thus feeling in my selfe at length both very weake and faint , Not able to continue so , his strokes me did restraint : To thinke vpon the youthfull race , and now to Age must bowe , With sobbing cares and inward thoughts , Here the Author ●●cideth to Age . to Age I made a vowe : Requiring him to pardon me , and take me as his thrall , Thus faine was I my selfe to yéelde , not knowing what would fall . To striue with Age I thought it vaine , then gan I straight to say : Require of me what you thinke good , I truely will it pay . With that he did withdraw himselfe , and ceased from the fight , And tooke my Gauntlet of my hande , as conquered by right : Most louingly with semblant showe , he tooke me by the hande , And saide if I would ruled bée , Bellepheton was a Knight of Arges , and serued king Pircus : Aurea was wife to Pircus which sought the Knights death , for not consenting to hir adulterie . no foes should me withstande . For as the seruant ought by right , his Maisters words to kéepe , So oughtest thou most faithfully , no iot from this to fléete : If that thou be , then be thou sure , not periured to bée , Let Aurea king Pircus wife , example be to thée . When that she saw Béllepheron woulde not to hir consent , She euer after sought by meanes , a mischiefe to inuent : And at the length she did complaine , and tolde the King in déede , That he accomplish would his will , by force he had decréede . But he like to a valiant knight , hir mischiefe did preuent , And so by Pircus was assignde , to fulfill his intent , Which was to kill a monster fell , and then pardned to bée : So forth he saylde the place to finde , thus was their whole decree . Thus euery faithfull Knight is bounde , by iustice and by lawe , To kéepe in minde and to fulfill , and not to stand in awe . All promyses with right to kéepe , the truth to ayde with might , For that pertaines as chiefe renoume , to euery worthy knight . No greater fame on earth may be , then Truth to beare the swaye , Therfore to Truth so bende thy minde , that is the surest waye . The promyse made by true aduice , for no man doe forgoe , Then be thou sure at all assayes , to spoyle thy mortall foe , Giue eare to mée and marke my wordes , Here Age giueth his charge to the Author . and so kepe them in 〈◊〉 . That from henceforth thou prosper mayest , therto thy selfe incline : Such amorous and daintie Dames , that venerie doth seeke , From such sée thou in any wise , no company doe kéepe . And also those whereas their Lords by fraude their house doe kéepe , With Flatterie and eke Deceit , in no wise such doe gréete . Arme thou thy selfe alwayes with Truth , and thereto giue delight , Then be thou sure from such to scape , which Truth alwayes doth spite . There is no man that I accompt once reasonable to bée , That dreadeth not such wicked thought , as thou full well shalt sée . Wherfore if that thou wilt attaine the state of worthie Age , At all times sée thou doe refraine , The Poetes haue feyned that Cerberus was porter of hell , hauing iij. heads , which heades were three vices , couetousnesse , murder , and lechery . from Cerberus seruage . The worthie state of wedlocke kéepe , beware of Sathans snare , If not , be sure at length to wéepe , and eke to féele great care : For he that is desirous , eyther Mayde or Wife to foyle , Let him be well assurde that he , in hell therfore shall broyle . Let honest mariage thée suffice , and be therwith content , Then God will blesse both Youth & Age , with grace thée to frequent : The Zodomites destroyde were , bicause of filthy life , With teares lament thy former dayes , at such be still at strife . Both deede and thought let still be pure , from vice doe alwayes flie , Cast vice away behinde thée so , least in the ende thou die : On thy left hande doe thou it leaue , account it none of thine , And to my wordes haue good regarde , away from vice decline , From following of diuerse Courtes , I likewise doe thée warne , For where much people doe resort , there lightly bréedeth harme : The olde Prouerbe is certaine sure , after d●ibling commeth durt , So where much people doe resort , in some doth mischiefe lurke . A number sure haue bene decayde , whose youthfull yeares haue spent , And all to get renowmed fame , in Age awaye are sent , Though one among a hundreth , a fléece haue got by paine : A thousand to that one , I saye , in base estate remaine . Climbe thou therfore so for renowme , with Reason and with Time , Therby to ioy in that thou hast , and voyde thy selfe from crime , For he that wades for dead mens shoes , may chance at length go bare , And when he thinkes to haue his fill , on bare walles he may stare . Where extréeme pouertie doth dwell , there dolefull dayes are sto●● , Prouide therfore in time doe thou , that thou mayst haue the more . Of meate and drinke and clothing eke , thy state for to supply , For pouertie abhorred is , and naught of rich set by . Beholde the forrest of Lost time , take héede thou come not there , Nor enter not in any wise , therof be thou in feare . For he that loyrers all his life , and mindes no art to learne , Shall beare the bob in Disserds schoole , and grind in Mo●us querne . To Idlenesse haue no desire , some practise put in vre , And minde to liue as I haue taught , by Sapience sage demure , In any wise Gods lawes obey , the better shalt thou liue , To put in vre that I haue sayde , as Truth doth counsell giue , Those things that yong men take in hande , concerning great renoune , Is of their owne both cost and charge , if they in welth aboune : The gallant gréene and youthfull mindes , desires to bring to passe , Aduenturing so long till some , therfore doe crie alasse . Take héede in time , the best way séeke , the more shall be thy gaine , Thy bodie eke in strength shall grow , so lesse will be thy paine . When that thou shalt haue cause to deale , in combats sharpe and fell , Thou mayst thereby be able then thy foes full soone to quell . If so it chaunce that thou decrease , not able to withstande , Yet faint not thou in any wise , giue not distrust thy hande , With feruent zeale and constant faith , thy selfe so yéelde in time , That thou therby thy soule mayst saue , and so be rid from crime , Though all the fierie furies were , with Plutos rage in place , And Osmodeus ready dight , yet naught could they deface , What got the furious serpent fell , when he iust Iob did paine , Could he therby obtaine his will ? no , no , this is certaine : The chiefest point which doth behoue , all men to kéepe in déede , Is perfect Faith and Charitie , therein still to procéede , Now haue A showed vnto thée , sée well vnto thy charge , Passe not the limits giuen to thée , row thou in no such barge . I aunswerde him by feruent Age , The Author agreeth to the counsell of Age . his charge so to obserue , That I at no time would forget , but with all powre conserue , And kept so well his charge , that I at no time would detect , With diligence and constant zeale , in no wise to neglect . On that condicion sayde he then , Age licenseth the Author to trauayle further . take now thy leaue to goe , Beware I saye , doe not forget , make not thy friende thy foe , Ponder well all my precepts , the better mayst thou iorne , A thousand streights thou needes must passe , and not againe retorne . Straight waye from him I did depart , through the desert of Age , When that my state discouered was , it forste me not to rage , According to appointed Age , aduenture to obtaine , I passed so the nighest wayes , with Will I rode amaine . Thus as I rode I thought vpon the worthie Champion stout , In that he did so friendly deale , with me when I came out : Both horse and armour he me gaue , as friende and not as foe , A Gorget eke he did prepare , therby me still to knoe , Which altered somewhat my state , when I graye heares espide , And yet for all that , loth to leaue , had not bene néere my guide , That Memorie so did me moue , my othe not to misuse , That therewith nothing me dismayde , ne counsell to refuse . Thus when Age , had all sayd his minde , and ended of his talke , About his charge he did attend , and I from him did walke , And I as one full bent to iorne , deuised then some song , How I might kéepe the promise made , and time I thought full long , Incontinent I turned backe , in light escried I Age , Within my face did then appeare , with countnance grim and sage , To flie him fro I thought it vaine , therfore I did embrace , And ioyfull then was of my state , though youth from me he chase . As time did passe I rode me vp , vpon a mountaine hie , The whole race there of all mankinde , full soone I did eserie , I being thus aloft did muse , which way for to discende , And sodainly I was conuaide , vnto the lower ende . For in the life of man it is , more difficult to rise , In climbing hie the rocke of Faith , God graunt that non● despise , Full prone is man through Adams fall , and loth also to clime , Or any paines to take in hande , wherby to voyde his crime . As I began in all the haste , my wayes for to direct , The desert huge did néere approche , the which I did detect , And then like as the snayle consumes himselfe with créeping long , In like estate my selfe neare brought , if I had further throng . The windes full calmely there did blow , me thought it did me ease , Likewise to smell the pleasant fumes , a time did me much please , In outward show it séemde to bée , a place and ioyous rest , Within all yre and crueltie , which doth the truth detest . This building faire doth signifie , the world both fresh and gaye , Which by his subtile practises , himselfe a time doth staye , The Damsels eke are vices fell , which doth mans hart infect , Alluring such as with them mell , and so themselues detect . In practising of vaine delights , thereto they giue their mindes , And for to climbe aloft they hie , such would excell the windes , But when they are aloft in déede , there vaine and carnall winges , By heate of sunne consumes awaye , with other dreadfull thinges . Then Sathan he his trumpe doth blowe , which Horror called is , For soye he skippes aloft in ayre to vew those that be his . Thus haue shewed the full effect of this my simple minde , Take well in worth , repent with spéede , shew not thy selfe vnkinde . The lawes of God are manifest , thou neuer more were taught , Beware therfore of fond desires , such trifles count as naught , The olde Prouerbe is certaine sure , the best doth longst endure , The best in time therfore doe séeke , let déedes this put in vre .

The Author being caried by his horse Will to the palace of disordered liuers , seeing then the abuse of all vertues , and the maintenance of filthy luxuria , remembreth his promise made to Age , looketh in the glasse of reformation , straight taketh his iorney , forsaking vtterly those abuses .

The Author seeing Abusion of all ordered vertues , so deckt like a foole , suspecteth that all the rest inhabiters , are no fit companions , concerning his promise to Age , leaueth all and ●e●arteth with Memorie .

NOw shall I showe thée all the state , by order and decrée , How euerie one in his attire themselues did show to mée , But first of all their minstrelsic , and then eche one by name , And how at length I did escape , whereby I got my fame . A Pilgrime right I may be callde , bicause I neuer rest , In séeking out on sea and lande , that which may like me best : The straunge report of Authors olde , so much enflamde my minde , That I therewith euen forced was , the Indian lande to finde , From ship to lande , my selfe to ease , great combats did I fight , Till Antropos at length me met , and so bereft of might . Unto my matter taken in hande , I purpose now to goe , And so forth on vnto the ende , my voyage straunge to shoe , A thousand soundes of instruments most musicall I harde , Whose harmonie was callde Deceit , in eche degrée preparde , A number there began to daunce , Deceit so did them please , With skippes aloft they gan to friske , although to some small ease . Deceit so finely did set forth , hir dulcent harmonie , That me almost she had néere caught , into hir companie : A while me thought no pleasure like , might be compared sure , Orpheus he for all his mirth , Pluto son to Saturne , the Poets feined that he was the diuell of Hell . might not with these endure . Who sought his wife full many a day , in Hell where Pluto king , Helde hir as his , till he by mirth , from thence apace did bring : But ere he was all daungers past , not minding no Deceate , That Pluto he tooke hir againe , he wrought this craftie feate , Thus as I neere approcht the gate , a Porter there I sawe , Which called was Abusion , of whome I stoode in awe , But when I knew his force and strength , then straight to him I spak● Desiring him to aunswere me , which he did not forsake . Saying , this pallace faire and fresh , wherein so many are , Is verie straunge for me to tell , thus he began to snare , With loftie chéere , but scorning voice , those which thou séest aboue , I tell thée plaine is vile Delight , the place is called Loue . It hight the loue of worldly welth , with pleasures of the same , Thus haue I showed thée all the state , wherein they still doe game : His words me moued to retire , not once to minde such loue , But vile desire did what she could , and thereto did me moue . To enter in among the rest , she did me much procure , With striuing I sure féeble was , not able to endure . Good Memorie did me defende , which vnto life do runne , And charged me to flie desire , as I had earst begonne . Forthwith was showed to me a glasse , wherein I saw full cléere , The former facts that I had done , as well those past as néere . Within that glasse espide I Age , which noted well my trade , And frowning browes to me he bent , awaye consumde as shade : Bicause I did so small regarde , mine othe and promise iust , He shewed himselfe most wrathfull still , euen bent to bate my lust , No sooner I graye heares espide , and face with wrinkles full , My youthfull courage then decreased , lo thus did Age me pull . Yet Lust and eke Concupiscence , assaulted me so sore , By their attempt I scarce could get , then languisht I the more , In sorrowes fell and deadly thoughts , had not Remembrance bin , No way coulde I escape them sure , from that allured sin . But Memorie declarde to me , By the corse , the Author meaneth the whole state of the earthy man , being corrupted in sinne . such words of liuely force , That streight to hir I did incline , and yéelded straight my corce , As one full bent no more to straye , hir counsell did I craue , And she forthwith did show full plaine , which way my selfe to saue . No man that liueth on the earth , may sinne so from him moue , Therfore to suffer paines thou must , so doth it thée behoue : For Sathan he will tempt thée still , and doe the best he can , To trap thée fast in deadly sinne , such is his trade with man . Therfore in time doe call to minde , away will go thy youth , And séeke those things that will thée saue , for troubles oft ensuth : Disturbe not once thy memorie in things that passe thy wit , For who doth so , by fraude is caught , for thée it is vnfit . And albeit Concupiscence and Lust doe thée assayle , Refraine them still , then be thou sure , in time thou mayst not quayle . When I had well behelde them both , then did I vnderstande , Their counsels tolde to be deceit , and foes to euerie lande . Forthwith I called Memorie , wherein stoode all my staye , Desiring hir me to excuse , from Lust I tooke my waye , If any of these errors fell , doe after me inquire , Say that you know not where I am , let them returne with yre . Thus in the ende all was but vaine , that Lust doth take in hande , That Memorie by sundry wayes , releast me from their bande , From them she did me still defende , and brought me in plaine way , For ioy therof I did reuiue , thus was she still my stay . With courage then I tooke in hande , from wilfull fraude and guile , Wherein I saw no reason was , at those I gan to smile , Deceit and Guile fast brideled were , for knowing any good , In deserts drie I left them all , and Reason by me stood , Who bade me say , adewe fonde loue , now bid I thée farewell , God graunt that I , nor no man else , desire with hir to mell , Considering hir vaine estate , and hir deceitfull loue , To quietnesse my hart I set , fonde loue no more to proue . Not one estate that she regardes , if she in them beare swaye , Who list or will know hir therfore , sure bréedes his owne decaye : By Reason doe thy selfe content , let Vnderstanding guide , For they are those whose beautie shines , surpasse the worlde wide . The mightie Ioue that sittes on hie , full well all states doth vewe , The verie secretes of mens hartes , oft times he chaunges a newe , If that in time they doe repent , with faithfull minde in déede , He ready is vs to forgiue , and that with feruent spéede : Forth on my voyage iorned I , with will and good intent , My faithfull promise to fulfill , by Ages commaundement , Thus as I rode by Dale and Hill , I ganne my way to vew , And straight appéered I in sight of Age before I knew . Where I on sodeine was beset , with sights both huge and straunge , The aire full dimme began to shine , a show of state to chaunge : The earth began to tremble eke , By wea●●●ed Age is meant the vnprofitable time spent , the state of Age is barren , when there is no fruits of good life appearing . it made me quake for feare , Infections forth also gan flie , which did much empeare , With miseries replenished with carefull paine and griefe , No lande it is of profite sure , wherein doth rest reliefe , For paine to paine there doth resort , ech other so doth paye , Thus wearied Age in barren lande , a time doth beare his swaye : The trées that there are , beares no fruite , so barren is the grounde , But thornes sharp which sore doth grieue , there sorowes doth abound Nothing at all that beareth tast , a dungeon like it is , Most tenebrous withouten light , yet fewe that lande doth misse . Most ruinous this place is sure , there dolors doe increase , Of vitaile eke there cometh none , whereby Age to release : The Well springs there full bitter are , and called Violation , So were the named sinnes their first state , of darkned inclination , No sunne nor Moone there doth appeere , no light at all is séene , No goodnesse there may haue recourse , beware such trap or grin , Dispaire , Dispraise , Disdaine and Ire , so rules this place or lande , That Loue & Truth with constant Zeale may not with these gests stand . No place at all once Helth to finde , he will not there abide , Nor Gladnesse she may not be séene , if wrath hir once haue spide , This vacant lande that barren is , euen froward Age doth show , Which ruled is by fonde desire , ouer such Gods wrath doth flow , An other Ilande yet there is , not farre from Violation , Infirmitie also it hight , most full of perturbation , Decrepitie there bends his sayle , so long as aire giues breath , And in the ende preuayles so trim , that health he turnes to death . As yet I came not in that place , but sure I felt the smell , Which represents to me my state , as Time full well can tell , To thinke thereon it doth me feare , with tremblings low I quake , For that I know the count is great , that I to Ioue must make . Full sore I languish in my hart , for to sée the worlde nowe , Without regard of life to come , from thence they bende and bowe , A number mindes no life I trow , ech man himselfe doth loue , And to relieue the poore they grudge , no threats their minds may moue Our weakenesse and infirmitie , no lasting lyfe can get , On what then doth man hope vpon , himselfe he doth but let : For while he striues to get renowme , the thred of life is cut , On sodaine thus he leaues behinde , that he so much did glut . Beware of fonde desired life , of Ill will and Dispaire , For they as Mates togither are , and Attropos chiefe aire , Those thrée doth bring a double death , I say therfore beware , Their path doe flie , receyue them not , nor row with no such fare , No kinde of benefit there is , that may compare to health , If it be such as euill holdes , then bréedes it but small wealth , No euill is on earth certaine , of nomination small , But if that thou employe to it , will be a plague mortall : The life of man may likened be , vnto a barren lande Withoughten people it to till , or there to liue and stande , Which lieth so all ouergrowne , with Bremble , Brier , and Thorne , So man deuoyde from vertues grace , by Daemon straight is torne . Auoyde therfore the path of ire , feare not Debilitie , Decrepitie , nor none of his , may stay eternitie : Yelde thou thy selfe with all thy griefes , to the eternall king , And call for grace while thou hast space , to Ioue he will thée bring .

By the aged or olde man traueling in the wood , is signified the desert of Age , that is , when youth is consumed , and the vitall powers decreased , mans time is nothing else but paine of body possessed with Dolor and Debilitie , still looking for the last combat , which is Death .

In the desert of Age there is no going out , decrepite or consumation of the body may not escape the prefixed time appointed . Also the Author goeth further , being not yet come to Decrepitie , and sheweth of certaine combats done by diuers valiant Champions , as followeth .

AS I thus was in the desert , from Age no way to flye , I thought then best with him to staye , so stoode I him fast by , Thus with my selfe I did agrée , with Age to be content , So wish I those , that Age will sée , least after they repent . But yet a number I did see , that Age did much disdaine , In painting out their faces gaye , and woulde not thence refraine , Till Age decreast so much their state , by force he made them yéelde , For wrath therof they did proclaime , to combat in the féelde . Dame Daintie first began the broyle , These combats were fought in the vale of ●gnorance , being in the midst of the land called lost time . by Ignorance assent , Which hoped sure poore Age to kill , this was hir whole intent , Full fast on rest she set hir speare , on Pride , she rode amaine , Therby she thought so Age to feare , thus did she him disdaine , By graue assent he did retire , a time to sée when shée , Would leaue hir yre , and go hir waye , or vnto him agrée : Dame Littlewit when that she sawe , that Age gan to retire , With vaine Beautie on Age she strake , in hope of hir desire . But when he had got all these Mates togithers on a rowe , Then he let flie , Time past and gone , and made them him to knowe : This combat sure was maruelous , it caused me to smile , To sée those fooles so trimly deckt , themselues deceyued by guile . Thus were they faine forthwith to yéelde as captiues vnto Age , And to leaue off their fonde attire , for all their force and rage , Dame Flattrie with haste came in , with worldly pleasures fine , Receites for Dames therwith to paint their parched face to shine . Dame Meretrix with brodered heares , a wooden face she had , For nothing she ashamed was , Luxuria so hir clad : With irefull voice she gan to rayle , for losing of hir Mates , And brought with hir Dame Flingbraine so , with many other states . Whose names I minde so to recite , in order if I can , That all that reades this booke maye know , those furies to withstan , Dame Ire and Idell louing Mates , Dame Discord and Pick thanke , Beldame Coy , and maistresse Nice , with Prater sauce and cranke . These hoped sure a fresh to fight , they did their verie best , But all in vaine , such was their gaine , he them so long opprest , That they were faine by cruell paine , of force he made them bow , Thus were they forced to flie amaine , from youth they knew not how . So fonde desire of Brainsick fooles oft bréedes their owne decay , When they in time will not foresée , but follow still their sway . The enuious foole séekes still to striue , yea though he haue the worse , Decreasing still his owne estate , and goes with thred bare purse . Where Prodigalitie doth raigne , and fonde Suberbitie : With such as may no state maintaine , such bréedes their miserie . The one by large expence consumes the whole his father got , The other he aloft doth looke from vertue sure a blot . Of cancred déede and filthie life they practise with such tooles , That Ignorance shall sure them dub , to Uicar of Saint Fooles , His Parisheners and friendly mates , whose ende is dolefull wo. Except in time they doe foresée , some other path to go . So long they stroue till Age them caught , by force he made them bowe , And Youth so saw his state decrease , to Age he made a vowe , Thy course so runne on boysterous seas , too high hoyse not thy sayle , Let Reason rule , so mayst thou best at all assayes preuayle . What craft on earth can Age beguile , if man long time remaine , Where once he comes such hold he takes , that none may him refraine , Till death appeares , which brings the ende , so long is he his guest , Euen to the graue he doth all bring , a time the bodies rest . Now to declare the ayrie state , some what I minde to saye , Of all Complexions what they are , and how they do decaye . Sanguine fierce and valiant , as Authors doe declare , Melancholy full of ire , with bodie leane and bare . In Choler he full grosse doth waxe , as grim as Bacchus grace , And Flegmatike no cowarde is , where he may hide his face . But where these foure in one are knit , by noble Nature shée , There for a time the bodie spredes , euen as the herbe or trée . But when these signes do disagrée , and Sperma doe decrease , Then streight beginnes to putrifie , the inner parts and grease : To drinesse then the bodie growes with parched hands and skinne , And so continues to the ende , but Youth no more can winne . Who woulde not trauaile all his life such science for to knoe , As able is to rid from strife this carcasse bare and woe : The state it selfe is nothing sure , full soone doth vade away , No earthly thing doth long endure , but once he doth decay . Why then is man so loth to goe , this fickle life to leaue , Sith he so well the state doth know , he doth himselfe deceaue : The pompeous state and worldly welth , doth many mindes so blinde , That when they should accomptes repay , most farthest are behinde . The Birde that in the Cage doth sing , somtimes both shrill and cleere , In ayrie skye with better note , as doth full well appéere , Bicause his kinde is there to be , if he the Cage may scape , Most ioyfull then beginnes his laye , no more for feare doth quake . But mans regarde is nothing so , the Cage of sinne to flie , The greater plague doth oft ensue , when that the poore doth crie , For many , goods so well doth loue , they care not how they get , So they may haue to serue their mindes , their whole desire is set . To matters full of iolitie , and newes both straunge and rare , I minde to tell with modestie , no more for thought to care . Harke now beginnes my whole pretence , though rude in eare it sound , Yet doe not laugh till all you know , least you your selues confound :

The Author and Memorie passeth the fielde of worldly pleasure , and after talketh of the dreadfull combats not yet seene .

Will his Horse as yet nothing tired , for all his long trauaile in the fielde of worldly pleasure .

AS I behelde this combat great , twixt Age and all his foes , And how they thought him to resist , as straight I shall disclose : And eke had vewde the barrainesse of all this ioylesse lande , With all the incommodities that therein still doe stande . And eke how many youthfull states began him to resist , Although no power at all was theirs , so long for to persist . And when as I had viewed his lande , so cast in Ilands twaine , Infirmitie and Wearinesse , as named they remaine , With all their scarcitie full bare , and withered place to sée , And violations bitter streames , approching fast to mée : I was so much appalde in minde , I wist not what to thinke , That forced I should be so soone , of Ages Cup to drinke : To thinke vpon my youthfull state , it grieued me apace , Considering that my bewtie now , Age shoulde so soone deface . Then as alone I rode full sure , appointed for to fight , With speare made apt , for Horsemans course al harnessed so bright . As quite despairing of my selfe , I soone hung downe my head , And rode amased withouten spirite , as one that were halfe dead : Espying that no Speare ne shielde , coulde saue me from such ill , Nor long experience coulde resist , that withered Ages will . Now entering the dale of wo alone my selfe so sad , I gan lament my ioylesse hap , in sorowes then so clad . I lookte about if hap I could , some other Wight espie , That would haue tasted of the Cup , of Age , as well as I. And staring long none I could vewe , of high nor low degrée , Then quite dismaide I thought such chaunce , should hap to none but mée . Well forth I rode with trembling corps , and face both wan and pale : So entring in the hollow caue , and way to Ages dale . With troubled braynes of wyt bereft , and saue a quaking hart , That so a loue I should of force , sustayne suche cruell smart : Alas sayde I haue I alone , deserued so to be , Still looking rounde on euery side , if any I could sée . Then thought I sure to turne agayne , and scape that crooked way , I gan to raine stoute Will my horse , as meaning there to stay , And backe agayne to take my course , forthwith to pleasures Féelde , Unto whose grace , I had supposed , my body for to yéelde : And neuer so to come agayne in perill of such wo , If hap I could escape the pathe , of Ages Iland so : But when I would haue raynde my horse , and so escaped out : I sawe no way that I mought take , I put you out of doubt . My horse was then with me dismayde , and so began to réele , Sith he no path of stable ground , nor sitting sure could féele : There was no comfort to be rept , but wo and much distresse , Sith none I coulde espie , that might to me the path expresse : Then mourning in my inward minde , I wisht I had gone still , Forth on my way to Ages dale , that he had had his will : And that I mought soone haue bene spent , and Age of me beguilde , When hollow graue , with bloudie bones , of me should be defilde . And not in such a Laberinth , of endlesse woes to wende , As I had found in such a case , not hauing any ende . Well : yet I thought some way to finde , and spurres I set to side , Then leapt my horse and plunged sore , a pace forth on to glide . And labouring full long therein , at last he founde the trade That earst before were turned backe , in iourney we had made : And then apace we went forth right , sore trembling and afraide , In desert place so comfortlesse through which I was dismaide . And thought as then to yéelde my selfe to Ages falt alone , For all this while to take my part I sure espide none , Till at the last when all my hope was well nigh gone and spent , I cast my head aside : and lo , in path where as I went , Dame Memorie againe spide , I which late from me was gone , And when she saw me she made haste , to come to me anone : She markt my chéere , how sad I lookte , and askte me of my chaunce , Oh Madame Memory sayde I , in case of great gréeuaunce . For as I déeme this is the way , to Ages ioylesse Dale , To thinke vpon , therewith it makes my face both wan and pale : Sith I alone must runne this race , to desert in such haste : And that none else I can espie , of it with me to teste . But when she hard me make such mone , and inward gro●i●g griefe , She vttred wordes of comfort strong , to me for my reliefe : She bade me chéere and not dismay , ne yet to make such mone , And then she proued by Argument , I should not go ●lone . She made relation vnto mée , as we rode forth a pace , How many goodly wightes before , had runne that crooked race , And yet bicause I should not faynt , I le ride with thée she sayde : And kéepe you company a whyle , therefore be not afrayde . And as we rode she ganne reherse , to me in loftie stile , Whose comely iesture made me glad , when often she did smile , How many kings and Princes eke , to fore that iorney came : Whome after this we shall expresse , as she did truely name . To my great ioye and comfort then , hir company I did kéepe , Whose mery tales and stories true , would neuer let me sléepe , But all the wordes of Memory , which there I marked well : Of which I meane to make discourse , and out of hande to tell .

Here the worthy and victorious King , Henry the eyght , defendeth hym for a tyme against Debilytie , and lyke a prudent Prince most princely , yeeldeth to his iudgement , after long fight had with Debilitie .

Valyauncie the Haroldes rideth before the King , and biddeth the Combat , being first moued thereto by Dolor and Debilitie .

FIrst that I should not all dispaire , and loth my wearied life , She named certaine vnto me , which I remember rife , As Adam , Noe , and diuers moe , Dauid and Salomon , Hector , and Caesar , Iulius , and other many one : As Pericles , and P●●amus , and Polymon of Gréece , Hercules and Iason stout , which wan the golden fléece , Atreus and Agamemnon , with diuers worthie Wightes : As Alexander Macedon subiect to fatall flightes . Some vnto age , and some in youth by Attropos consent , To haue the vitall thréedes cut off , and yet to be content . And therfore thou , quoth Memorie , thinke not thy selfe so strong , To put thy trust in Will thy horse , thy dayes for to prolong . Ne faint to vew olde Ages gate , and palace of distresse : Quoth she to me , for straunger newes , yet can I well expresse . And at the last forth riding still , sayd she , cast vp thine eie , And then forthwith a desert plaine , I gan for to espie , Where nothing grew but withered trées , & parched grasse or ground , And ruinous as I behelde , it séemed to be rounde : At one side sate one full of bones , withouten flesh or skin , With Scepter crown , & robe like clay , with trone all carued within . And him before a Champion stoute , his Haralde sure he was , With Cote of Armes as he did giue , loe thus it came to passe : And on the right hand of the plaine , I saw a worthie King , In complete Harnesse méete to fight , preparde in euery thing , Like Alexander in his heigth , resembling Hesters grace , Or like Achilles he did séeme , then marching on a pace : A ken before him was a Wight , in complet harnesse thoe , And horse well barbed vnder him , his puissance to shoe . With Speare in hande to giue th assault , as séemed vnto mée , A Harolde then went from the king , most gorgeous for to sée , And did ambassage from his Grace , vnto the Champion stout , Whose chalenge was to fight , as séemed by trauising about , Then as●te I Memorie what he meant , and of the plaine by name , And full curteously forthwith , to me did show the same : The fielde quoth Memorie so bare , is wildernesse of Death , Where euery mortall wight is forste to leaue his vitall breath . The bony corps that thou doest sée , The Harolde that weareth Deaths Cote with bones , is called Defiance . is Death that puissant Prince , Which with his finall Scepter doth , all earthly things conuince : The Champion that before him is , Defiance sure is hight , Who vilipendeth all estates for Death his Maister right . The king quoth he in harnesse set , so bolde in lyuely grace , Is Henry stoute of Englande king , the eyght of name and place : Which wan such valyant battailes strong , & forrein townes laid wast , Which rulde by prudent skill so well , and pollitique forecast . Which brought all nations vnder feare , of his high maiestie , Which made all forrein powers to quake , through magnanimitie . Which first began as Iosua did , Gods foes for to dispoyle : The same is he which first of all , gaue Antichrist the foyle . Which brake the neck of Papistrie , and gaue a deadly wound , Unto the Masse that romishe Hell , that did our soules confound . The same is he which first set to , to breake the romishe clowde , And first to sounde the Trumpet blast , of Gods true worde alowde . Which first defied the banning Pope , and all his Bulles of lead , And he which first denied the Pope , to be the supreme head . Which wanne himselfe preheminence , by courage stoute and bolde : And first began the Romishe clayme , and tytle to withholde . And did by Target bright of faith , the Popes high cursse receaue , And washing of the same gan first , on Christes truth to cleaue , Which staide the Popes reuenues here , and puld the Abbeys downe , And spoylde the Romishe lubbers all , which lurckte in euery towne . The same is he which did commaunde , Gods pastors for to preache , And gaue them leaue in Popes despite , Gods holye worde to teache . The same is Henry sure the eyght , whose fame is fixt in skie : Whose trumpe victoriously doth sound , Here beginneth the Comb●t twice these 〈◊〉 valiant Champions , Debilitie and the worthy king Henrie the eight . whose conquest can not die . The Wight before him is , quoth shée , Debilitie by name , The Champion stout of Death so pale , it is the verie same : He makes the way and winnes the fielde by weakenesse in his kinde , Death doth triumph by his great force , as daily we may finde . The Harolde of the King , to him , is Valiauncie in déede , Who goeth to know the Champions minde , & what he hath decréede : Whose aunswere is that he must néedes for all his fame relent , And vnto Death with all the reast as first to be content . I sure am he which Philip slue , and Alexander bothe , Darius and that Ptholome , though they were very lothe : So forth we went , and she with chéere , bade harken to hir talke , For she would show me more than this , quoth she , as we do walke . Then spurres I set to Will my horse , our iourney to passe on , What chaunced after this , I shall declare to you anon , To haste on waye , apace we rode , till at the length we came , Into that vale of restlesse time , which so is callde by name . That King in courage was so stoute , against that Champion bolde , That scarce he could , the chalenge made , his fingars from him hold , For he was not afraide to passe the seas with all his hoste , And bid his foes the battell stoute , in their owne lande and coste . He feared not to pitche his Campe in hart of forreine lande , And battell wage with enimies force , yea , euen hand to hande , At last Dame Memorie lookte back , and straight she bade me stay , And there I saw a worthy fight , as truth I will display . Debilitie the chalenge gaue , and Death in iudgement sat , But yet this worthy King did showe no blushing face thereat : Then came Defiance with a scroule , thou king sayd he , take héede , Debilitie shall thée conuince , and vanquishe thée with spéede . Though many Kings thou hast dismayde , with that thy manly face , And made thy foes abashed oft in presence of thy grace , Yet thinke thou not vs to withstande , yéelde therfore if thou wilt , Least hap contemning long , thy dayes with wearinesse be spilt . The Champion now Debilitie or Weakenesse is by name , At this triumphantly reioyste , as glad to heare the same , Then sent the King stoute Valiauncie , ambassage for to tel , That he wel knew their courage bold , should not his power yet quel : Ne yet will yéelde at thy prowde boast , though hored heares he haue , It is not thou with all thy bragges , that canst him yet depraue : With that the Champion made his course , & eke the King him met , Then was the sight full cruelly betwéene them fiercely set . Their fierie strokes and dreadfull blowes abasht my fearefull eyes . I thinke the sounde of them was hearde abeue the lower skyes , At last they paused for breath , well nie both being quite dismayde , Till iudgement came from Thanatos , a while they stoutly stayde . The sentence definite was this , as I could vnderstande , The winde so bare away the sounde , that it could scarce be scande . Omnia mortali mutantur lege creata , All things created must chaunged be by mortall law no doute , Therfore in vaine thou valiant King , art thou so highe and stoute : Abase thy selfe , he must conuince , yet now these words descrie , Mori non turpe est , sed turpiter mori : It is not filthie for to die , his file must cut the thréede , But filthily to die , that same is filthinesse in déede . When as the King had heard these wordes , he gan for to recite , His noble actes which he had done , that might him then requite . No might sayde he , no strength ne fame , triumph nor victorie , Can me resist , which am the Prince of fatall destinie . With that the King began againe , a stroke or two to fight , But soone he was by weakenesse spoylde , and voide of courage quite : Lo , sayde Dame Memorie to me , this Pageant didst thou vew , All Wightes must suffer this conflict , by destinie most trew . First Age , then eke Debilitie , and Death must sure extende , As of this King , so of the rest , in time to make an ende : Dispaire not thou , quoth she to me , for yet I will thée show , Of mo that suffred haue this fight , whom thou didst truely know . Make spéede quoth she , and ride apace , and so we did no doute , Till we the sight of the bare fielde , had wholy passed oute : And then I askte Dame Memorie , if I might make report , Of that Combat which I had séene , there tride in such a sort . Yea , quoth she , feare it not to tell , for doubtlesse this is trew , King Henrie was a King full stoute , as all men then well knew , Which raigned thirtie seauen yeares , as Chronicles doe tell , And did in Marciall prowes then , all other farre excell . And yet at last with Dauid King and Salomon his sonne , With Iosaphat and Iosias , his strength must néedes be donne , And so must all mankinde likewise , sayd she , there is no way , Of fatall stroke there is a meane , to make a perfite stay . Though long they liue as Nestor did , or as Methusalye , Yet once the time approches neare , wherein they néedes must dye : And therfore sayd she thinke thou still on Death and on thine ende , And thou shalt kéepe thy life so straight , that thou shalt not offende . This talke we had as we did ride , with much more I confesse , Which were to long , it to recite , if I shoulde it expresse . When we on way had iournayed long , in Times most pleasant féelde , To other talke Dame Memorie addrest hir selfe to yéelde . Approching neare vnto a plaine , of goodly pasture gréene , Where many thinke of right good praise , were plainly to be séene : But when we were now entring in , she bade me then prepare , To sée and heare the chaunce and truth , wherof I now declare .

The Author and Memorie riding forwarde in the fielde called Time , stayeth in the middest therof beholding euery state there assembled .

The valiaunt Prince and King addressed with Valiancie his Harolde , to bi● defiance against Dolor and Debilitie , Thanatos being iudge .

LOrde Thanatos in Throne I sawe , as Prince of deadly chéere , And eke defiaunce still him by , as playnely did appéere : Then asked I of Memory , what ment him there to bée , He ruleth all the earth she sayde , as playnely thou shalt sée . And there in iudgement is he set , and iudgement to display , Twixt two Champions that thou didst beholde this other day . With that I harde a deadly sounde , as séemed of Trumpets blast , The noyse whereof euen dullde my spirites , and made me sore agast . Faint not , quoth Memory to me , ne dread this deadly sounde , For now preparing is for fight , as I did earst expounde : At last out of an hollow Caue , came one so stoute and braue , As though he would within an houre , all mortall Wightes depraue . On sturdy stéede in harnesse bright , and Helmet deckt with plume , His countenaunce showde that he would soone , all humaine strength consume : His loftie gate made me to thinke , on him I sawe before , This same is he quoth Memory , muse thou on it no more . This same is stoute Debilitie , that Champion blythe and strong , Which thou shalt sée to winne the field , before that it be long : And lo sayde she , cast vp thine eye , on thother side the hill , Forthwith approched straight in sight , the glymce of speare and bill : Then lookte I vp and sawe a farre , a Prince both yong and fayre , In complet harnesse bright and cléere , resembling Marsis heyre : About a seuentene yeres of age , of comely stature true , It did me good his Princely grace , and personage to vewe . In bewtie like Narcissus sure , Dame Iunos comely face , Begot of Iupiter he was , I déemed by his grace , And after him a goodly trayne , of puissaunt men of might , All so preparde in armor cléere , and readie for to fight . Then as we rode our iourney on , and still sawe them draw néere , I prayd the Memory would then , make playne their names appéere : That princely childe saide she , that king , that yong Narcissus faire , Whose valiaunt hart showes him no lesse , then worthy Henries heire . That same is young Iosias tried , the sixth Edward quoth shée , That found Gods booke in broken walles , and made it preachte to bée , The same is he which read himselfe , Gods booke with loftie sound , And sent the preachers through his land , it plainely to expound . Helchias this king did estéeme , as high Priest of his lande , By whome all Arguments of truth , should be with power scande , This worthie Priest loued Zaphan well , the Scribe aprooude in wit : Which two did alwayes with the king , in regall counsell sit . By whose great wyt and pollicie , and by this kings consent , All false Idolatrie , was quite out of his Region rent , The hill Alters and groues in woodes , and Priestes of Baall ech one , Were sone broke downe , & they cast out , from presence of his throne . The lyuing God Iehouah , he did worship and obaye , All superstition that stoode vp , he soone conuayde awaye . The booke of Deutronomy pure , he openly did réede : And so commaunded as his lande , in truth for to procéede . In fine as earst his genitor , king Henry had begoon , By him the Romishe rable was quite ransackt and vndoon , As noble Sire by noble minde , had layde foundation sure : So he that building finished , his raigne for to endure . The Pope he cléerely banished , and named as supreme head , He vtterly defied the Masse , and all his Bulles of lead . He brake downe all Balles Images , and Pilgrimages vaine , All Trentals , Diriges , ●riftes and rites , of Rome he did dismayne . He tooke the slyng of truth in hande , and stone of zeale that flent , And gaue the Pope Goliah sure , a wounde and deadly dent : He threwe his pardons out the dore , his power he full defied , And cast his care on Iesus Christ , that Lambe which for him died . Then this done he when Antichrist had lost his title cleane , His honor and his power vsurpe , which was not worth a beane , By counsayle of that Zaphan wise , this king erected right , By Helchias the Priestes aduise , in Antichristes dispight . New lawes and institution , within his realme and lande , And purged the Englishe Church therwith , of Popery out of hande : He threw the Alters downe with force , which made vs like the Iewes , And set up Tables by and by , as Christ himselfe did vse . The bookes of God he made be read , I meane Christes Testament , Quoth she which Antichrist the Pope had hid long time and rent : And made them playne in mother tongue , translated for to be , And made the people serue the Lorde , in truth and veritie . He rulde his lande seuen yeres quod she , in such aduised wise , As Fame therefore doth sounde his prayse , euen to the starrie skies : But whether rydes he now quoth I , and all those Wightes so braue , To age desert with spéede quoth shee , as Natures course doth craue . But range thy horse sayde Memory , stande still be not afrayde , For ere he come at Age byhalfe , his iourney shall be stayde : With that comes one euill fauored wight , all deckte in straunge aray , And crept among his sturdie wightes , as they rode on their way . Séest him quoth Memory to me ? I sée him well quoth I , Thou shalt sée more of his vnhap , quoth she , euen by and by : The same is he which sure will worke , the fall of that same ●ing : And him before the time of age , vnto destruction bring . Infortunate , that is his name , a wight most fierce and fell , As thou shalt sée quoth she anone , I néede not thee to tell , With that I sawe an other wight , Debilitie he hight : Which crossing came another way , vnto this yong king right . And then I sawe before this king Dame Fortune shyning cléere , With hir most glittering siluered bushe vnkemd as might appéere : Which couered all hir face and brest , it was so thick and long : Me thought hir selfe so did behaue , as one that ment him wrong . For she hir balde and hearelesse head , turnde towarde him behinde , This represents sayde Memory , that thing which he shall finde : For though he haue bene fortunate , hir forehead to beholde : Yet spéedily she will turne back , of this thou mayst be bolde . No youth ne bewtie may preuayle , no honor fame nor praise , No welth nor dignitie be sure , that Thanatos assaies . As she the words haue vttred forth , came Hope that heauenly Dame : And gan to comfort vp his hart , deseruing well the same . High Enterprise was at his hande , a noble Lorde and stoute , With that Dame Memory bade me , to leaue looking aboute , And cast thine eye vpon the king , so singe like that rode : From whome deceytfull Fortune fled , with all hir bushe abrode . At whome he caught but all to late , she had no heare behinde Saide Memorie , now marke thou well , to recreate thy minde : But recreation none I sawe , but dolefull griefe and wo , To sée so swéete a King dismaide , by guilefull Fortune so . For why Debilitie gan praunce , when he was nere the king , And eke Defiaunce came in poste , Ambassadge for to bring : Mouth he vnto Debilitie , now ply thy strength full well , And suffer not olde Age to gayne , ne yet thy power to quell . With that the king espyed a farre , this Champion stoute and strong , And he to sende to knowe his minde , did not the time prolong : ( High Enterprise ) it was that rode , Ambassage to display , And eke to knowe to what ende , he thus did beset his way . Thy soueraigne Edward thinkes quoth he , Debilitie I meane , To passe to Ages lande as did , his father stoute and cleane , But doe thou write it may not be , that he should it attayne , I here am set him to preuent , his iourney to restrayne . High Enterprise retirde agayne , and tolde the aunswere so , Which made the kings couragious hart , to be enflamed tho : Shall I quoth he preuented be , no fayth I will assayle , To make the Champion stoute relent , and eke his purpose quayle . There Hope stept out , and went before , and he came downe amaine , And met the Champion with such force , that he had néere him slaine : Then did Defiaunce sound the Trumpe , of Death against the king , At which the Champion gaue a blow , that did him shrowdly wring . He faynted at the stroke in déede , and yet so stoute was hée , That his yong Princely hart respire , and thought reuengde to bée , And bent his speare to strike amayne , but as his stroke was bent , That Féeblenesse behinde him came , and did him much preuent . Then strake Debilitie that Wight , and downe fell Edward flat , It would haue gréeued a faythfull minde , for to haue bene thereat . To sée a king so toward and stoute , a right Iosias sure , Such hard conflict and great mishap , in childehood to endure . In tender youth alas , sayde I , to Memory my friend , What chaunce is this that this good childe , so sone hath caught his end : Unworthy sure quoth Memory , the lande was of his grace , Their vyle vnchristian thanklesse life , made him to lose his place . But sure quoth she this is the trade , all men once néedes must go , No Wight on earth but yong and olde , must subiect be to wo. Then forth we rode , but to looke back , it gréeude me at the hart , To sée that Princely childe dismayde , and prest with deadly dart . It grieued me sure to sée his fall , and how he was dismaide , And sure that strumpet Fortune then , did make me sore afraide : Oh , who would trust sayde I with teares , and dolefull heauie minde , To Fortune that vnstable blast , that wauereth like the winde . Well yet sayde Memory to me , come on nowe ride apace , For I will showe thée more as yet , beholde thou yonder place : It was about a ken from vs , so we did passe away Till we came néere , then what befell , hereafter I will say .

These two Champions signifie Valiauncie , and Defiance , a drest like Haroldes by outwarde shape : bicause Dolor and Debilitie are certaine accidents , or inwarde mouings , the which are felt , but not seene : Eche striueth with other who shall be the chiefe Gouernor , Thanatos taketh the supremacie , and compelleth them both to serue him .

The Author an● Memorie beholdeth the cumbat , marking w●li what is spoken of Queene Marie .

WHen we had rode a good long space in fielde that is so gréene , When we had talked wel , of things which we before had séene . We came at last vnto a Dale where we went downe apace , I saw two Champions prest in armes , which redy were to chace . One as it were a ken me thought from other in hollow plaine , Both bent with countnance stout to sée , to fight with might & maine : Thus as I cast mine eye about , I saw a Harolde drest , Which came as though some message he , alreadie had exprest . Whose irefull countnance made me shrinke , his loftie spéech to heare , Procéeding on his iourney still , as after shall appeare , Forth on I came with vised héede , well marking euery pace , Till both these Champions I sawe , eche other lookte in face , Their méetings were so valiant , as rare appéerde in sight , Which did so sore my hart dismay , that voyde I was of might , With hollow chéekes most straunge to sée , and glymping eies sunk in , Euen like to that Heraclites from wéeping doth not linne , A witherde face and skin so parchte , and bones by sorow made ful drie , That I gan tremble all my flesh , to sée him as I passed by , The other sure did farre surpasse , so leane , so slender , thin and bare , As though he had bene pinde & kept , with very thin and homely fare . And such a sent came from him warde , as made me sicke in senses all , It dulde my wittes , it palde my sense , yea sure it turned vp my gall : And as I was thus out of frame , I cast mine eie vp to the hill , And there I saw olde Attropos in deadly throne there sitting still : As though in iudgement she had ben , to cut the thred that Clotho spon , Alas saide I , I am beset , yea sure I thought I was vndon , When I thought on the worthy sights , & pleasures great I passed fro , Oh so my minde it did oppresse , bewrapt I was in dolefull wo. The glorious Princes deckt so fine , so many a lustie Wight , The Countrie faire , the fruitfull soyles , that were before my sight , The worthie plattes and orient lands , the bewtifull adorned glée , Now to forsake , and thus in griefe , of such a barren fielde to sée . And eke such ougly wights therein , such fearfull Champions twaine , And most of all Dame Attropos , hir sight was most my paine , I shewed mine humaine nature then , that thought in pleasures trace , That no misfortune should haue hapt , my courage to displace . I thought as many thinke no doubt , in midst their pleasures daunce , In time of welth and iolitie , The Author here lamentes the state of all fonde desired worldlings of no such fatall chaunce : Of Death nor of Calamitie , of poore and wretched state , I thought as many thinke I sée , that beare a loftie gate , Like diuers Wights as Philip king , who ruled Macedone , And eke as Nero did surmise that grieuance should be none : But sure I was deceyude , so they deceyued are likewise , That trust in worldly pleasures vaine , in Fortunes false surmise . In bewtie , strength , in welth and pride , in honor fame and praise , For in the turning of a hand false Fortune goes hir wayes . And then such as doe not forecast in welth to frame with wo , The losse of welth doth yerke them néere which quickly hir forgo . The losse of fame , the losse of ioye , the losse of store and case , Doth such that trusted still therin more grieuously displease , Than it doth those that neuer had , of pleasure any tast , As I now féele , said I in déede , with sorow néere downe cast . This worde Dame Memorie belike heard as I spake the same , And she forthwith would know of me why I was out of frame : Alas Dame Memorie sayd I , these wights makes me agast , Which here I sée in this same Dale , since I mine eyes downe cast . But stirre thou not , quoth Memorie from me , be not dismayde , For many mightier than thou haue bene of them afrayde : Beholde therefore and thou shalt sée , great combats sharpe and fell , As dreadfull sure , the like not past , marke well what I thée tell . I haue thée shewde quoth she , ere this , that thou shalt not alone , Treade on the path of mortall steppes , but other many one , And these two wightes I shall thée tell , which present here dost sée , What be their names , that know thou mayst , what both their natures bée The wofull wight with hollow eyes , is Dolor , paine and griefe , Which in betrapping of mans steps , is knowne to be the chiefe : When youthfull Age is past and gone , and lustie yeares all spent , When chéerefull mind by chaunged dayes , and wasted time is rent : When Fortunes glittring bush turnes back , when pastime bids adue , When riches wasted or when fame , in course cannot renue , When merie hart by toyling care , of siluered Age is wo , When pleasant Cupid doth the Courtes of Iupiters forgo . When Bacchus Cups doe turne to want , when Ceres crop do lacke , When Venus shall with Vulcan be , no more in yron racke : When Iunos bewtie withered is , when Phoebus beames made dim , When Cleopatra lies in tombe , that was before so trim : When Salmacis the wanton Nymphe , is monstrously transposed , And she with Hermaphroditus so dolefully inclosed . And when Apollo hath forgot to tune his instrument , And hearing Orgaine stop by Age , which youth did still frequent .

Here the Author and Memorie beholdeth the last Combat betwixt Dolor and Debilitie , clearely conuinced by Thanatos .

After long vewing proceede on their iourney .

THen ginnes this Champion Dolors raigne , procure to the graue , Most chiefly then although the rule , of all mans life he haue , And let the wanton sort a whyle , and wealthie ones at wyll , To tread there pleasaunt path with case , as casting yet none yll . Yet other while ●oth griefe créepe in , Dispaire a Champion stoute , That doth where feare of God is not , all former ioy blot oute : And what is all mans lyfe sayde shée , but dolor griefe and paine , What ioye can be in wretched vale , where worlde and all is vaine . Feare not therefore quoth she to me , for thou shalt taste no yll , Before it be thee limited , by God and by his will : The other Champion calde by name , is sure Debilitie , As féeblenesse or weaknesse hight , whome thou so leane doest sée . He rules when Hercules hath lost , his tawle victorious strength , And when infections Nothus blowes , throughout the aire at length , When good digestion stomake fayles , and sithes the hart doth breake : Then doth mans body wanting youth , become all sick and weake . When Soll that plannet full of grace , shall giue curst Saturne raigne And Luna ioyne with Venus colde , than gins that weakning paine , When Natures fayle by collors heat , and powers cannot digest , Then weaknesse or Debilitie , sone hath his rule exprest : When she had told me both their names , by this , they twaine were met And we so nere that we might heare , their wordes withouten let , They spake aloft as egerly , as they could both in yre , And then to stay I did in minde , to heare them much desire . The winde was somewhat hie but yet , I heard them verie playne , How Dolor and Debilitie contended for the raigne : I le raigne sayde one it is my right , the other did deny , At last they gréed their tytles both , by argument to try . Then Dolor did reherse the meanes , how he tooke place at large , By losse of goodes , by losse of friends , by losse of Fortunes charge , By pouertie by aduerst chaunce , by Fortunes frowning face , By fyre , by sworde , by thrall , by lack , eftsones doth griefe take place . By losse of bewtie strength and fame , by losse of purpose bent , By hatred , slaunder , and mishap , when Saturue shall preuent . A thousand wayes he did rehearse , how Dolor raignes in man : Outward and eke a thousand mo , of inward chaunces than . Which makes his entrance to the mind , to fill mans mind with griefe , And therfore Dolor did conclude , that he ought be the chiefe . But then to heare Debilitie what bragges he made at this , By arguments as strong to proue , that right ought to be his . He called the Planets all for proofe , by ayrie argument , As Saturne , Mars , and Luna colde , complete with their assent : That be the Authors of disease ( said he ) and ioynde with Planets good , They make complections turne and ioyce , they turne the helthlesse blood As if hote Planets rule , amplect with colde which are to base , Then they make choler grow in man , and stomacks heate apase , If Planets colde get maistries , then fleume doth straight abounde , The watrie reumes and stomackes yll , in partes of man is sounde . With pestilence , Gout , & Feuers strong , Lasks , Dropsies , then appéere , Quarterns , Tertians , and beside , such as doe touch more néere , As Paralysis Palsey hight , which sprong of humors colde , Makes sinewes all as resolute , powers vitall to withholde . Then Apoplexia comes in kinde , rising of humors grosse , Which filles the vessels of the braine , to speach and mouing losse : Then Epilepsia likewise of grosse colde fleume doth spring , Or else of Melancholy sure , well knowne a weaking thing . So Dissinteria comes likewise , which nature cleane doth breake , Continuall torments comes with him , to make mans body weake : And of Disuria springes a colde , of fleume both grosse and tough , Who paines the bladder in such sort , and makes a man to bough . Ephialtes , Epialos , those Feuers both take place , One colde , and the other burning hote , mans strength for to deface : The Hemerhodes also doe come of fulnesse of the vaines , Which much depriue man of his strength , encreasing grieuous pains . Iclerios which Iaundice hight , pretending in their kinde , Of euery sort much weakning man , as I can proue and finde . Beside ten thousande more sayd he , of sore diseases fell , Which now our time will not permit , in order for to tell . Yea , and beside a thousande new , which springs low euery day As plagues made due deuised by God , mans new sinnes to repay : New wayes man still inuenteth now , his God for to offend , And so God doth new plagues deuise , to bring him to an ende . Not new as though God shoulde haue néede , new things for to inuent , But new bicause man didnot trust , as yet such punishment : I therfore quoth Debilitie , doe proue my selfe the best , By whom mankinde in this his race , is most of all opprest . For sorow may be put away , as cause thereof doth spring , Of pensiue hart swéete instruments can ioye and solace bring , To sor●e hart for poore estate , a salue is to be had , And that is money which forthwith reuiues and makes him glad . If wo for lacke of fame or praise , actiuitie comes in , If grieude with wounds the medicine streight his ease doth then begin : But he that is to weakenesse brought , Phisitions may take paine , And minister by Art and skill to make him hole againe : Yea , cure his sicknesse as they may by knowledge euermore But yet his strength they will confesse , God only must restore : With that gan Dolor halfe distraught , to fixe his speare on brest , And straight Debilitie began likewise to be addrest : Their words displeasant were to eche , they were incenst with ire , And so they gan to close amaine , with strokes as hote as fire , Assuredly like Champions stoute and valiant in the féelde , It was not cowardnesse that coulde , make either so to yéelde . But pawsed and fought , and pawsed againe , so cruell was their fight , And sure full deadly blowes were giuen , on either part did light . How likest thou this , said Memorie , sure saide I , gracious Dame I neuer saw yet such conflict , no worthier than the same , It is but vaine , quoth she certes , for them thus to contende . For sée where one doth sit in throne , that shall their battell ende , Why ? that is Attropos quoth I , truth quoth she to mée , And these two Champions to hir grace , both but as seruants bée . With that same worde I hearde a voyce , and Attropos gan speake , Wherwith these champions both at once , their battell of did breake : Hir iudgement was that Griefe , or Paine , or Weaknesse were but sent As Messengers of Attropos , and for hir high entent . Not for your selues , quoth she , that you to raging bée , But that when eyther of you strike , man might prepare for mée : Your powre and strength is little worth except I be your guide , The honor therfore sure is mine , I fully haue it tride . With that they stayde and flong their speares , ech one out of his hand , And cast their eyes to Attropos , where as hir throne did stand , And we rode by when all was done , the furious battailes hot , And through the Dale amaine we rode , our horses for to trot . But as we rode Dame Memorie gan talke as woont we were , Of that same sight which we had séene , whereof I was in fere : So falling out and commoning , as we rode on our waye , Of many things she put in minde , which she before did saye , And eke how these two champions had , ful many a Wight down cast , And eke how man was but a flowre , a bud or westerne blast . And so among much other talke , it came into my minde , Talking of Princes and of Kings , which yet was left behinde : To aske hir who succéeded next after in Britaine lande , That swéete & comly Edward King , whom Fortune did withstand . Truly quoth she , thou well hast spoke , I had hir quite forgot , Sith small desert of memorie , she left behinde God wot Marie a bitter floure God knowes , sprong of so swéete a trée , Yet bright she was in splendent throne , as any Quéene could bée : Marie succéeded Edward sure , a braunche of Henries blood , Though that hir reigne with Hesperus did Britaine land smal good . A noble Prince no doubt she was , respecting reigne and crowne , As reigning ouer such a lande , as beares so high renowne : And wise she was as such one coulde , so left in brothers steade , And wiser if she would haue sought , to be the supreme heade . But she cast downe that father raisde , which brother eke made sure , And set vp that which they cast downe , of all things most vnpure : Yet royally she ran hir race , as fancie did hir guide , And sure right godly was hir life , if knowledge had bene tride . A iust religious minde had she , but wanting skill of truth , Which caused in Britain land much wo , much wailing , paine & ruth If thou wilt more said Memorie to me , of Maries raigne , The Actes and Monuments put forth , of that time show thée plaine : The tragicall discourse therof , the bloudie slaughter fell , Time will not serue me , but that booke shall show thée verie well : At last when she had raignde in pompe , adioyned to such a throne , Scarce willingly gaue place to death , which Bellials sort did mone . She séemed as yet to show a grace , that fatalls to defie , And with these Champions both she sought , as time did them descrie : But she alas was all to weake , for all the pompe she had , And all the helpe of Balams flocke , which prayed as they were mad . Which roared and bleared in euery route , that she had lost hir life , Bicause they knew if she were gone , then would begin their strife : Well yet at length Debilitie and Dolor so preuaylde , That they of hir obtainde the price , which they had long assaylde . And Attropos when they had done , cut off hir vitall thréede , How grieuously and in what wise to show , is more than néede , And euen as Memorie had done this short discourse to mée , Of this same Quéene , hir raigne and end , a Fort we gan to sée . And eke a house or Mansion place , as we rode vp the hill , And vnderneath a valey faire , but forth we rode on still , Till we were come vnto the house , where Memorie bade light , There she constrained me to rest , bicause it was nere night . Here will we bide , sayd she , a while , vntill the morow day , And then of other matters straight , I will to thée display , At hir request I lighted downe , and put our Stéedes to grasse , Then went we in , yet will we tell , what after came to passe .

The Author and Memorie walking on foote , beholdeth the auncient showe and Funerals , of mightie Conquerours past .

Wherevpon the Author beholding the same , desireth Memorie to show him the meaning thereof , as earst to fore she ●ad begonne .

When clowdie night so darke and grim , was paste then we arose , Euen when Auroras comely hew , gan mornings chéere disclose . When Cinthias hornes were hid , when Phaebus tooke his race ? In glittring Chariot through the skies , fro Esterne throne apace . Then sayde Dame Memory at once , make spéede the day drawes on , And so we tooke our curteous leaue , and went to horse anon : The pleasaunts Dame is Memory , to ride or go withall , She mooues the minde not to forget what after shall befall . The chéerfulst Ladie on the way , Dame Memory is sure , That euer matched with Pilgrime tryde , his fancies to alure , Besides recouering vp the talke , that we had ouer night , The chéere , the banquet and repast , the pastaunce and delight . She had a thousand merie tales , of stories past and gon , Which were with wisedome enterlaste , right méete to think vpon : Sometime by trauayle I gan tyre , and was right dull in minde , But shée espying me , forthwith adrest some mirth to finde . So passing on with mery tales , and wauering thoughts of mée , We gan about the eleuenth houre , a pleasaunt fielde to sée . I should haue tolde first of the hill , where that the Forte did stande , Where we had lodgde all the night , right worthy to be scande . For on that hill the way laye right , a stréete bright , faire , and plaine , Much like the way that mountes the hil , Pernassus as they faine : Saue onely that Pernassus way , leades vp the wined hill , And this from top hath turnings none , but leadeth downeward still . Of all the places where I came , or aye haue séene to tell , To none I can compare this hill , whereon our iournay fell , Except it be to that same place , vnder Pernassus side , Where all the worthy Muses mine , Parnassides abide : So faire , so swéete , with flowers and trées , of fruites a long our way . That it vnto Thesperides Garden compare I may , Still all a long till at the last , the way led downe amayne , From whence as casting foorth my sight , I spide the pleasant playne . The bewtie of the which , to much reuiued vp my minde , That still I longde to be therin , but loe I was behinde : It showed pleasant in mine eye , that fielde so freshe of glée , As though from Oetas top , the Greacian lande might sée . And still the néerer it I came , the fayrer it did séeme , Which made me muse and what it was , it caused me to déeme : And musing on it as I rode , as many mindes are bent , To chaunged fancies newe and straunge , graue studie to preuent . To please the eies and fix their mindes , oft times or fangel●d chainge , So I confesse as one of those , whose minde did often rainge , But as I mused , Dame Memory , had tolde me many a tale , But sure I wist not what they were , no more then Iacke a vale . My minde was so bereft with toyes , and fancies that I sawe , That what she sayd , I knew no more , then did a foolishe dawe : I was much lyke then as I thought , to some that I did knowe , Which oft doth come in preaching place , where truth doth bud and growe To Sermons as they vsed when as , I was at home in rest , To which full many well I knowe , would oft be readie prest : And yet when as they were in place , their dueties for to héere , So many toyes and fancies fonde , before them did appéere . That oft when preacher had left off , if one should them desire , They could as many wordes declare , as sea burne in the fire , And knew as much their duetie then , when Sermon ended was , As Linus in Lupercall wood , to helpe Pans priest sing Masse . So much beside my selfe was I , as they were with there toyes , To sée this pleasaunt fielde so faire , it much encreast my ioyes : But Memory much hauing sayde , perceyuing eke my minde , Knewe well before she asked me , how my disease to finde . I aunswered hum and ha to hir , but nought I did regarde , Of all the pleasaunt stories which she had for me preparde : Much like as some , when wisemen shal , of wisedome touch them ought And yet their ydell braynes doe still regarde the same as nought . At last sayde Memory in déede , as marking well my chéere , Where on my friend is set thy minde , that me thou doest not héere : Now sure déere Dame sayde I , this fielde bewraps my senses so , That I am rauisht with the sight , the further that I go . With that Dame Memory to me did say , I was not wise , To lose the marking of hir talke , for pleasaunce of mine eyes . This field she sayd which thou doest sée , so faire , so fresh and gréene , Unto an other séemeth bare , as time hath euer béene . This Fielde is Time that nowe appéeres of such a liuely hew , To thée and certayne other mo , which perill neuer knew , Which haue ynough as helth and wealth , and ease withouten paine , To whome eche hap of wordes and deedes , still fall out perfite gayne . Whose swéetned mouths , no hunger tast , whose hart do take no thought Whose handes to labor haue no néede , that Art should out be sought : Whose pleasaunt face the siluered drops of trickling sweate doth hate : Whose wandering eies are not opprest , with watching ouer late : Whose Corps adourned takes no colde , at Borias bitter blast , Such thinke this fielde a pleasant graynge , which neuer wo do tast , Such as haue all thing at their willes , withouten thought or care , As rauisht sure with sight thereof , there fancies fully are : Whose Coffers are right full of Golde , whose Tables haue no scant , Whose costly lodgings in the night , of casement haue no want : Whose gorgeous vestments are framde , to pleasures of the eye , Which as in honor , pompe , and praise , in Fortunes fauor hye . Those thinke this fielde of Time no doubt , a pleasaunt field to bée , Like Garden of Hesperides , or Thessal Grecians glée . But vnto such are tasting wo , griefe , hunger , paine and smart , Whose howling sight for ioylesse state , procéede from swelling hart : Whose bodyes are with toyle opprest , which colde with Saturs yre , On whom Dame Fortune turnes her back , not as they doe require , Which lack and taste of pinching paine , both naked poore and bare , Which scarce doe lyue in meanly state , for all their toyle and care . But glad to go from dore to dore , in howling yrcksome griefe , And are constrainde with witherd chéekes , to craue and aske reliefe : To such this pleasaunt fielde of Time , which thou doest thinke so gay , A ioylesse plat they holde it sure , deuoyde of comfort thay . Some other thinke , as they likewise , of Balams flocke I meane , Which are dispoylde in this same time , of all their comfort cleane : Which had a time for them full freshe , mens soules to bye and sell , Which were inricht by marchandise , that saued mens soules from hell . What saide I : saued ? nay quite dispoyled , of euerlasting ioyes , While they in time of Molochs raigne , were flattred forth with toyes , While such like Princes were inrichte , and fared of the best , While simple sort like Ideot lobbes , or innocents were drest . They clothed in silkes as Marchauntes rich , with Uenefices full , With Benefices would I say , that made their braines so dull : Which nowe doe howle , in corners crept , for loosing of their gayne , And of this pleasant time for griefe , doe very much complayne : Though others ioye , and thinke it swéete , yea happiest time of all , When Gospell hath them fréede from Pope , & Popishe cruell thrall : And that belyke sayde Memory , doth make it séeme to thée The Garden of Hesperides , more bewtifull to bée . For their grewe Golden apples sure , which Hercules bereft , But here the sounde of lasting lyfe , in holyest Garden left . Yet marke and sée the fickle chaunce , that happeneth in this tyme , As well as in the auncient graunce , that was so full of cryme . And as the prosses of hir talke , was throughly at an ende , We did begin in midst of fielde , apace for to discende , Where as there was so fayre a groue , and Arb●r for to rest , As Phaebus in Meridian rase , began to be adrest . We both in place there did alight , and as we walked by , The pleasaunt fruites that there we sawe , was passing to the eye , The fragrant Rose , and smelling Mint , the Oliefe braunches gréene , A place most fit for valyaunt harts , as for Minerua Quéene . Thus as we walkte Dame Memory , gan take me by the hande , Sayde shée of other matters yet , I le let thée vnderstande , She friendly askte me howe I likte that Garden freshe and gréene , Nowe sure Madame , sayde I ere thys , the like I haue not séene . Go with me then she sayde , wherewith she gan my steps to guyde , Out of a priuie way that opte all at the sotherne side : And being there straight was in sight the goodlest daled playne , That is I thinke in all the coast , twixt Macedon and Spayne , Beset with great Pyramides , and Monuments right hie , In good proportion and in hegth , Here Memorie sheweth the Author the auncient monuments . right pleasaunt to the eie : At th onside rockes and Mountaynes huge , and goodly groues to sée , Than all that I to fore had séene , this more delighted mée : Then as I cast mine eyes more low , I spide a mightie Prince , With Diademe and stowtnesse there , and Scepter to conuince , In goodly Throne I sawe him sit , with princely grace and chéere , Like Philip king of Macedon , his countnaunce did appéere . Or like to Alexander sure , which wan by force of fight , The vniuersall world throughout , in thirtene yeares by might , The shewes of this olde monuments , were notes of Princes past , For other purpose serude they not , thus fame hath ende hir blast . So many as were valiant , their déedes doe well recorde , And for their faithfull seruice here , they raigne with God the Lorde : To such therfore as spent their time , like cruell Nero hée , Those monuments stande to their shame , as all full well may sée . Herode fell , Goliah stoute , what praise left they behinde , Or Bacchus he , that belly God , sure Momus guestes assynde , Their crueltie rest to their shame , vnto the worlds ende , Their infamie and cankred hate , from light their eyes did bende . Marke well therfore quoth Memorie although these sights thée please , The sights not séene with Ioue aboue , doth bréede more ioy and ease : For these are things though faire , yet vaine , a time to please the eye , The life to come doth far surpasse , that iourney let vs hye . Bewrapt I was with heauie care , when thus much he had sayde , And verye loth from thence to part , therewith I was dismayde . Yet at the last shée so me ayde , to hir I did consent , With pleasant showe of sugred wordes , my sorrowes to preuent . If we should make so much report , quoth Memorie of all , That we haue séene and doe beholde , the Readers minde would pall : Therfore from hence now let vs part , our iourney forth to passe , As we haue done from time to time , for run is halfe our glasse . To speake somewhat of worthy lightes , which shineth very cleare , I minde in déede for to declare , marke well , and thou shalt heare . That worthie Quéene Elizabeth , that splendent Rose so cléere , Whose fame is spred in euery coast , all Europe farre and néere : With that I spake to Memorie our iourney forth to ride , And she with spéede hir selfe addrest , which I full soone espide , On Will I rode , and she on Ease , from loftie hill to dale , As afterward shall well be séene , such newes account not stale . The night approcht , and Vesper shone , Cinthia gaue hir shine , Yet now and then when Clouds were past , from light for to decline , A place we saw which did vs ioy , where we had hope to rest , But being neare Aurora she hir selfe aloft adrest : Séeing now therfore quoth Memorie the day so faire beginnes , Let vs procéede our former talke , anoydiug Tritons ginnes , His whistling Wilke shall not allure , nor yet his slily song , That to escape we shall full well , his craft can not vs wrong : Ne fickle fancie let not moue , your senses to withholde , For Ioue aboue doth strengthen all , as earst before I tolde , Where Memorie and Reason eake , in man doth still abide , There vertue growes with lasting ioyes , at euerie time and tide . The whole discourse of eche mans life , may likened be to grasse , Whose state and stay is no time firme , for all away doth passe : The vehement colde congeales to yse , yet heate of sunne doth melt , To gratefull harts a lasting praise , as all such past hane felt .

The Author beholdeth the discourse of Dolor and Debilitie , Thanatos sitting and giueth iudgement , Attropos giuing place .

As they are at co●tention , the worthy Queene Elyzabeth passeth by , neyther Dol●r nor Debilitie , as yet not able to resist .

AS worthy facts deserues great fame , to such as vertue loue , So worthie prayse is alwayes prest , by proofe who list to proue . No tongue ne pen may well expresse the benefites we haue : Not only store of worldly welth , for that we néede not craue . All things that we can thinke or wishe , concerning eche estate , Are brought to vs , we lacke them not , we néede not feare of hate , Of forren power , Prince , nor lande , if we eche other loue , And doe obey our noble Quéene , as dutie doth vs moue . Whose royall raigne God so endue , sure Nestors yeares I wishe , That she long time may be our guide , hir foes still to vanquishe : And that we may while time we haue , by dutie séeke to please , Hir royall grace our supreme head , Gods wrath thereby to pease . No nation sure in Christen lande , may so as we compare , No worthier Princes beareth life , nor none more taketh care To kéepe and gouerne this hir Realme , by prudencie and skill Is all hir care , hir lande to riche , no subiectes more haue will . Hir splendent face and Christall eyen , hir comly corps and gate , Is able sure a hart of stone , to cause relent and quake , By way of sage sobrietie , hir publike wealth doth guide , I thinke the like scarce may be founde at any time or tide . What shall I say in farther praise , full well all men may know , God graunt therfore we thankfull be , and duties to hir show : That lande or nation which doe loue their Prince with hart and will , God doth and will them euer blesse , in Citie , towne and hill . Well , to procéede quoth Memorie , as earst we haue begunne , Let vs with spéede no time delaye , awaye our course doth runne . Beholde quoth she that yonder vale so bare and voide of grasse , All barrennesse the place is callde , where none may ouerpasse . Beholde also the ougly corps , that bony figure hée , Is Thanatos which endes the life of euery degree . As Iudge he sittes in middest of plaine , to vew the commers by , And those in armes are champions stout , not one from them may fly . If that he chaunce within their sight , full hard then may escape , Debilitie so cruell is , and vitall life doth hate , The Har●lde there Defiance hight , vnto the commers by , From Thanatos as Messenger , in wea●ned corps a spye . When flesh by Dolefulnesse is brought , to weake Debilitie Then straight Defiance lye betwixt , the marie ioyntes and knée : Euer striuing still in man , except freshe bloud abound , Decreasing all the vitall powers , & Death straight giues the wound . Conceiue thou well quoth Memory , these Champions now beholde , A Cumbat sure we straight shall sée , as earst ●efore I tolde : Their stryuing sure is all in vaine , till God doth giue him leaue , Therfore with haste as we passe by , doe close vnto me cleaue . Feare not at all , as yet the force , may in no wise vs let , Although they striue who first shal raigne , and lay their trapped net : As we were talking in the vale , a farre of I espide , A Charet set with costly stone , and plumed on euery side . In haste I spake to Memorie , and askte hir what they were , Which came in order marching on , withouten dread or feare : Remembrest not quoth Memory , Elizabeth that Quéene , Which I erst spake , that worthy Prince , euen she most comly séene . With those hir Nobles of hir lande , on prograce now they ride , Through worldly pleasures trapped way , forth on apace they glide : To vewe and sée how euery coast , is furnished with store , If néede shoulde be , hir foes to match , the bote and ship with Ore . As well on seas of trobleous time , that nothing lacking bée , Hir to defende in all assayes , from daungers eke hir frée : Hir captaine stout Gods gospell pure , will fight so for hir grace , That Pope and Iewe shal stand in feare , of hir most splendant face . And constant faith in Iesus Christ , Liefetenaunt hirs shall bée , Which séekes by meanes the life to come , as all full well may sée . All these alredy are with hir , hir minde they still obey , So long as she goes forward on , not minding once to stay : And for asmuch as she hath care , hir Realme to kéepe in peace , It hir behoues all coastes to séeke , at no time sure to cease , Not that she feares scarce time to haue , such is hir godly zeale , But for to sée all things well set , thus she for vs doth deale . Debilitie ne Dolor eke , so striues to get them prayse , As she doth sure thinke bring to passe , by sundry kinde of wayes : That which is sayde as erst I tolde , if thou my wordes didst here , It shall suffice giue eare againe , beholde they drawe vs nere : Concerning that Debilitie , which striued so of late , Is nothing else but want of bloud , which lustie youth doth hate : And Dolor he doth signifie both pensiue carpe and care , Which doth in time mans fleshe abate , to fleshlesse bones all bare . And Thanatos is griefly Death , which makes an ende of life , From hie and lowe , from youth to age , and eke both man and wife : Discord and Grudge , delights to braule , and then they haue their fill , By sworde or knife , eche one to stay , still prest they are to kill . And sith these sightes are passed by , we will not here abide As yet , if thou wilt folow me , I still will be thy guide : With that on Will I rode me forth , as now not farre to iourne , Quoth Memory beholde , that thou may not agayne retourne . Forth on we néedes must take our way , for we two will alone Debate of matters past and gon , as after shall be showne : My colour straight began to chaunge , and strength did eke decreast , And grayer head did then appéere , I might not be releast .

Here the Author and Memory riding alone , Memorie comforteth him to prouide and arme himselfe against Thanatos .

The Author being somewhat moued by Memorie , passeth ouer the fielde of worldly pleasure , and Time also nere past , beginneth to faint , yet for a time recouered by Reason .

AS I rode on with countnance grim , and almost halfe dismayde , That I also no way mought flie , I gan to be afrayde : For that I saw so many dead , of all degrees on grounde , I mused how I might escape , that none should me confound : With that Dame Memorie looked back , quoth she doe not dismay , No way there is therein to scape , the truth I doe display : When natures course by Time is spent , then néedes must all adresse , With speare and shielde against the foe , I after will expresse . For as these Champions still haue striude , and thée beset full oft , Now thée to leaue they will not sure , marke wel this time is nought : A werie place and painfull vale , a dungeon darke and yll , Where nothing bides in one estate , thou mayest not haue thy wyll . When I considered hir words , and weyde them well in minde , I gan againe for to reuiue , bicause she was so kinde , In showing me the daungers great , which passed were and gone , And those to come , with chéerefull words , so forth we rode alone , To passe the fielde of barren Age , so much my minde did moue , That sore I was therewith dismayde , that ( Will ) no more to proue , And speare of Regiment to lose , and eke my sworde so bright , Which Courage hight , wherewith I oft did put my foes to flight . Thus musing still the life to come , quoth Memorie beholde , That Iland playne , which doth appéere , with glasie Ise so colde . That place is called Consumpsion , so emptie , voyde and bare , Which thou must passe , there is no way , thy selfe therefore prepare . Within that place the Champions are , which mindes thée to assayle : Distrust , Dispaire , and eke Disdaine , but sée thou doe not quayle : Thou shalt them féele , but not them sée , therefore doe not dismay , Their power is such where they beare rule , they turn to night the day . The night I meane of worldly cares , which many doe estéeme , To be more worth than lasting life , a day full bright doth shéene , For who that mindes the life to come , himselfe may well insure , This worldly vale and dungeon darke , doth man from life procure . Therfore quoth she , now let vs ride apace till we haue got Some house to rest , where harbour is , that none by way vs stop . Beholde quoth she , that Phoebus faire beginneth to dis●●●de , And Vesper she , ere long will showe , the day to be at ●●de : With that I set my spurres to horse , whose pace began to dull , Nothing so quicke as at the first , no race could run at full : Espying thus my horse to faint , I long desirde to sée Some house or place for vs to rest . Then both we did agrée , Before that Vesper gan to shine , a place we did espie , Whereby with haste rode on our waye , and thither did vs hie , But ere we further doe procéede , quoth Memorie to mée , Be not to rashe in entring in , some light now let vs sée . With that I looked rounde about , aloft I spied light , So cleare it shone as doth the sunne , with all his beames so bright , To knocke quoth she , I will begin , this place I surely know , Which called is the Hoped Time , which faithfulnesse doth show , Well , quoth Memorie alight , till some vs come vntill , Ere long there will approch to vs , obtaine we shall our will : And with that there came a messenger , True Zeale which did prepare , A chamber fresh which Paine it hight , as we shall now declare .

Here the Author by Memorie taketh his rest , at the ende of the desert of barren Age , or Consumption .

And being lighted of their horses , the Author sickeneth in the Chamber called Paine .

No sooner entred was I sure , such paine in corps I felt , That I was faine to lay me downe vpon a couch or pelt : Till that true Diligence for me , prepared had a bed , And godly Zeale full readie had a kerchefe for my hed . Th●s lying downe vppon my bed , in dolefull sort gan mone , Perceyuing well that néedes I must , do that that earst was showne : That is , to ●●aue this fleshly corps , and chaunged lyfe to sée , Which I long time s●ught to defend , and yet it would not bée . To thinke vpon that Will my horse , my griefe did more abound , Him to ●orgo it gr●e●de me much , euen lyke a deadly wound : With that came Memory to me , and bade me take good héede , Not to dismay although the time , by Ioue is full decréede . Why doest thou sighe and languishe so , it may thée not preuayle , Lo , Reason he shall so thée rule , that thou shalt well preuayle : To ●ide the saute of Thanatos , he will thée so enflame : That from Dispaire , Disdaine , and Ire , thou shalt escape as game . So long as thou wilt ruled be , by Reasons sage aduise , True Diligence and constant Hope , will coun● thée then full wise : Lo Pacience straight will then appere , and endlesse ioy and guide , To driue away Distrust and Ire , as golde thou must be tride . With that came Reason to the bed , and bid him not dismay , For I sure am a friend of thine , my loue I will display , And lay abrode before thée so , if thou wilt me regarde , And after me as faythfull friendes , alreadie are preparde . That is , faith , hope and charitie , which will thy minde allure , To doe and saye all that shall proue , and lyfe they will procure : By me therefore now ruled be , then marke what will insue , A happie state and ioyfull lyfe : these wordes as sure most true . Beholde where I am resident , there alwayes groweth fame , To prince , to king , and euery state , I still incurre good name : So if thou wilt be rulde by me , I will not fro thée part , Till Cloth●s he haue sp●n hir thréede , with all hir slily Art . Till Attropos haue whet their knife , the vitall thréede to ende , Till Thanatos his course doth ende , my loue I will extende . Therefore of me thou mayest be sure , if thou my wordes regarde , No enimie sure shall thée 〈◊〉 , although ●ull néere preparde . When Reason thus had sayde his minde , to Memory I sayde , How like you this I pray you showe , I néede now of your ayde : With that she smilde as one yet glad , espying not forgot , His counsayle sure is certes good , and sinnes away will blot . No man on earth may Death withstande , therfore vnwise is he , Which will contend with yrefull wordes , as all full well may sée : For yrefull wordes bréedes cankered hate , Debilitie to vex . And Dolor he must néedes decrease , beware of Discordes checks , In sicknesse he that way ward is , and will no reason héere , Alwayes doth bréede , his owne disease , as may full well appéere : The frantike mindes of many one , so to their willes are bent , That medicine and phisicke both , may cause them to repent . Such wilfull pacients therefore , that will not turne in time , May well be sure to féele the rod , of pinching paine and crime : For there as Reason may not rule , nor Memory that Dame , In stéede of hops of endlesse lyfe , Distrust there reapes the game , And where Distrust once bereth sway , their straight apéeres Dispaire To draw away that soule from light , and state thereby appaire . God graunt ther●fore all christian harts , so to prouide in time , That lyuely spirite of iust beliefe , maye not from thée decline . But that which feruent zeale doth showe , by Ioue aboue diuine , Disturbance he doth grudge and hate , much more he doth repine : For when he sées the féeble corps , opprest with wo and paine , Most busiest then he is to mée , although most vile and vaine . He will therefore prouide in time , while prosperous state doth last , In calling still for Gods merey , shall not be made agast : Of wicked spirites for to delude , they shall not thée annoy , Though thousands haue thy corps 〈◊〉 , with g●●lefull fanci●s coy . No man on earth himselfe maye frée , from the infirmitie ▪ Of fleshly lyfe while he haue breath , such powers to disagrée : I wishe therefore all faythfull hartes , there mindes so fully bende , And still to craue mercie and grace , for that they haue ●●●nde . These wordes when Memory had sayde , they did my ●art such good , My sicknesse I almost ●orgate , but Reason with me stood : My heart was lightned very much , wherefore I calde amayne , For armor then , and Will my horse , yet once againe to raine . Wherewith that I wou●● make an ende , of this my trauayled time , The soner then to ende this race of ●●nkered yre and crime : But séeing weaknesse so opp●●sse my s●●ly corps in déede , On Will I gan my foe to ●●●●te , that Thanatos with spéede . And being armde with Godly Zeale , my selfe so did applye , That not estate ne losse of li●● coulde make me backe to flye , But when he came his might was such , I could not him withstand , Forthwith I yéelded as captiue then , and voyde of forraine land . God graunt vnto all faythfull hartes , such race alwayes to runne , That no desyre of worldly welth , their mindes once ouercume : Then be you sure , when vitall thred , by Attropos is rent , With Gods elect in lasting ioyes , no care more to relent . Farewell my friendes , loe ye haue heard , such newes as I haue séene , In euery cost and lande where I , long time and dayes haue béene : Let this suffise your fickle mindes , except you farther iorne , So this now done , my selfe doth please , and so doth serue my turne . Though playne and base , not eloquent , as well sure as I can , A better may hereafter hap , if that thou rightly skan : Farewell adue yet once agayne , marke well ere thou dispraise , Least in the ende thou be to rash , not trading Reasons waies . FINIS .

Iohn . 3. They shall die that beleeue not in Christ , and the wrath of God abideth vpon them .

Eccle. 9. They that be deade know nothing , such as are dead in sinne , thy dead men shall lyue , such as are dead in the workes of the fleshe , shall be quickned in the spirit . Sapiens . 13. Among the dead there is hope , among suche wicked as will be conuerted from their abhominations , there is lyfe promised , so that they returne not to their vomite againe .

¶ Imprinted at London , by Henrie Denham , dwelling in Pater-noster rowe , at the signe of the starre .

Anno Domini . 1569.

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