O MY LORD, O my God: how long wilt thou deferre the deli­uery of thy people?

Arise, and free vs O Lord: arise (O Lord) and saue vs.

Helpe vs thou in our tribulations: for vaine is the aide of man.

Accomplish gratiously, what thou [Page 12]mercifully seemest to beginne: shewe forth the amiable light of thy coun­tenance.

By the hand of thy great seruant IAMES, shake off our yoake: that we may finde him an honourable com­forter.

Beautifie him with a name, more pretious then his Crowne: by the true name of a good King.

Deserue he the resemblance of thy owne Title: Prince of peace.

Least they which vexe vs, exalt their hartes for euer: and magnifie themselues, in their iniquities.

Thou hast tried vs, as the Dia­mond is tried by hammers: or gold in the fornace.

Thou hast chastised vs throughly for our offences: nowe spare vs for thy mercy.

To thee lift we vp our eyes, who dwellest in the heauens: and sittest vpon the Cherubins.

As slaues in their Masters fury: or handmaides at their Mistris feete.

Attend from thy heauenly throne vnto our cry: for exceedingly haue we beene oppressed.

Howe many are the dayes of our afflictions: when wilt thou doe vs fauour and bowe our Persecutors vnto pittie?

Thine we are, thy children and thy seruants: the scattered and op­pressed sheepe of thy pasture.

Preserue vs, for we haue embraced thy wayes: and diligently searched thy commaundementes.

For which cause we sustayne the note of folly, and madnes: and are a daylie laughing stock to each wic­ked person.

Reputed also as vnworthy to liue: and enemies to our deare country.

Our acquaintance haue vvith­drawne themselues from vs: and ab­horred our company.

Our friendes haue forsaken vs: our kindred haue no wil to know vs.

Our brethren of the same wombe passed by vs as a streame: vvhich stayeth for no mans talke.

Swifter then Swallowes fled they from vs: for dread of the nets which are round about vs.

They to vvhome vve should be deare, despise vs: they which should helpe, followe in the chase.

Like sole Camels in the wildernes are we become: like solitary birdes which haue lost their company.

Outcastes, of no body regarded: as broaken potsherdes were we trod­den vnder foote.

At meetings men deuised against vs: at tauernes and banquets made they songes vpon vs.

Neither ceasseth their rage to re­pine: that the milder minded drawe backe from persecuting.

Without committing folly are we [Page 15]scorned: & slaundred without desert.

Tongues are sharpned against vs like swordes: malice is bent against vs as a bowe.

Arrowes are in secret let flie to wound vs: snares are laied to intrap vs.

The children of this world, seeke nothing more then our destruction.

This their assemblies forget not: this is their busines all the day long.

Lawes laied they earst for stumb­ling blockes: & crossed thy edictes, the pathes of innocency.

Beset by them as thicke as bees: wee liue inclosed amidest an armed hoast.

They raged among vs as a riuer vvhich swelleth vvith raine: bea­ring downe the bankes vvith vio­lence.

Their insolent fury as a flame: which catcheth hold vpon a pile of thornes.

Oppressed thus by our aduersa­ries, we lay groueling on the ground: and by strong hand were our neckes kept downe.

Oh that at length they would not kicke against our litle redresse pre­sent: for of the passed time who can record the calamity.

Euen so, O heauenly Father: for it hath pleased thee, to compasse vs with payne and perill.

Our bowels are filled with worme wood: our hartes long since inebria­ted with gall.

To what shall I compare our sor­rowe: and resemble the misery ma­ny yeares sustayned?

Our woes as waues of the Sea: our aduersities as the sandes thereof.

Persecution followeth vs, like thunder, and lightning: fire, haile, and brimstone.

More cruell are our foes then V­nicornes: more outragious then swift [Page 17]Tigres.

As Dauid sought to death by Saul: as the Israelites in the bondage of E­gipt.

As innocēt Susanna in the handes of her accusers: as Daniel in the Lions Den: such is our case, O Lord.

Vnder vs is the appaling pitte: aboue vs the brandishing sword.

Within vs, feares: vvithout vs, terrours.

No meane left to escape: but on­ly thy diuine assistance.

Were it not for thy great mercy: long since had we beene wasted and gone.

Our Fathers sinned and we beare their iniquities: but vnto howe ma­ny generations will thy wrath be ex­tended?

Howe long vvilt thou shut thy eyes from the oppression of thy poore: and bannish their cry from thine eares?

A greate space haue our soules thirsted after thee: expecting the day of their redemption.

As trauaylers in a dry & vncouth way: as children weaned from their Mothers breast.

Our hartes are replenished vvith sorrowe and heauines: to see thine anger so confirmed against vs.

Hold not thy peace, but answere vs: nowe we lift vp our handes be­fore thy holy Seate.

Consider at length of our com­plaint, O Protector of thy holy Church: looke dovvne from thy throne of Majesty.

Regard the daylie Sacrifices: and turne not thy face frō thine anointed.

Iniquity hath preuayled: gotten the vpper hand, and proceeded with all extreamity.

Because of this we groane by day: and at midnight powre forth our soules in teares.

Memory of our tribulation com­meth into our lippes, at table of re­fection: and busieth our thoughtes vpon the bed of our rest.

At our rising it is in our first pray­ers: at our going to bed we againe commend our cause to thy mercy.

Diuers times in the day we bowe our knees: beseeching thee at length to relent.

Our eyes droppe continually vn­to thy Godhead: and our sighes are euery moment sent vp towarde thy throne.

We haue put on sackcloath and hayre: and humbled our selues in fa­sting and abstinence.

Girt our loynes with corde, aba­sed our heades to the earth: and mul­tiplied our prayers.

Arise therefore, O God of hoastes stand for thy people: giue thy malig­ners to vnderstand, that their Do­ctrines are of flesh and bloud.

Heale the crushed and brused: set captiues at liberty.

Thy might is not abridged: thy wisdome is no whit diminished.

Make therefore the yron rodde quite to cease from our shoulders: binde vp the woundes of the guilt­lesse.

Spare vs for thy name sake, O benigne Lord: release thy congre­gation from their affliction.

Conuert the hartes of people to thee: and they shall be conuerted.

Send forth thy grace: and put vp thy sword.

Thou hast powred forth thine in­dignation like a streame: and laide thy habitation like a waste plotte.

Ierusalem hath streatched out her hand, and findeth no helpe: shee be­wayleth her children, vvithout all consolation.

Nowe therefore arise, vntwist the twine of our tribulation: and breake [Page 21]the exactors staffe.

Preuent the appointed time, O fountayne of mercy: abridge the dayes to the saluation of many.

If thousandes wilfully run astray: yet thousandes finde their ruine by ignorance.

Most part of this haruest perisheth for wante of reaping: though much be blighted before the sickle.

Many which shined in thy church like starres: are fallen as from hea­uen, into the bottomelesse pit.

Many bredde vp in thy fragrant garden: vvallowe novve vvithout doores vpon filth with swine.

Whome thy Spouse fostered vp with her owne breastes: those haue sauage beastes raught from betweene her armes, and deuoured.

So that shee is become as a tree blasted: and casting her blossomes with the frost.

Her faire ones are altered to Aethio­pians: [Page 22]her stronge ones changed to weakelinges.

They which seemed strōgest haue shrunke vnder the burdē: they which seemed soundest are consumed.

Hell hath widned his entrailles: and opened his mouth beyond all measure.

So that almost as many soules are swallowed in his gulfe: as bodies are carried to the graue.

The fainter sort are tyred in this long probation: & blaspheamously say in their hartes, where is our God become?

Scarce the just & elect haue beene able to endure: Respect therefore at last (O Lord) our oppression & de­solation.

For thy loue and for defence of our faith it is: that we haue taken so hard a course.

For righteousnes we sustayne re­proofe: for not violating our allea­geance [Page 23]to thy soueraigne Majesty.

Who art the only Lord of Lordes: and Monarch of the whole world.

Before whose face the mountayns tremble: & to whome Angels bowe.

Whose slaues and vassals: are all the Princes of the earth.

When thou list thou pluckest a­way their chaynes of gold: and tiest a rope about their neckes.

For thy seruice we suffer, hating the profane Church: and refusing to sit in the congregation of the wicked.

Vngodly assemblies we haue de­tested: and held in abhomination the Doctrine of the chaire of pesti­lence.

Conceale therefore no longer our innocency: the mouth of the vngod­ly is opened against vs.

And that without our fault, thou knowest: who quietly seeke to di­rect our liues.

They say to vs, talke not of con­science: meddle not of Religion and you shall be free.

Yeald to vs in shewe: and giue outward consent to our lawes and actions.

Come reuerently to our rites, and prayers: be one of vs, at least in pro­fession.

Forsake your accustomed Sacra­mentes: renounce the society and communion of Catholikes.

Then beleeue in hart howe you lift: we admit you good subjectes, and no enemies of our Religion.

Misery hangeth ouer our heads, if we yeald not to this suggestion: but a thousand miseries if we doe relent.

If we forsake thy Tabernacle, hell claymeth interest in vs: the fiend ta­keth seyzion of our soules.

Standing stedfast vve are consu­med to nothing: neither finde end of trouble but by death.

LIFT vp thy head, O Vir­gin Sion: receiue comfort, yee children of Hierusalem. Yee zealous soules, who groane vnder sore persecution: and sit in heauines for your conscience sake.

Who haue beene tried by fire, and found pure: peysed in ballance, and found sufficient.

Your constancy our Lord & ma­ker hath beheld: accepting the same as a most gratefull Sacrifice.

Confirme your hartes in hope: for your redemption is not farre off.

The yeare of visitation draweth [Page 26]to an end: and Iubilation is at hand.

Albeit yee be as drops fallen into the Sea: and as graines of gold a­mong the mountaynes.

Yet are yee respected from on high as loyall, and louing children: the reliques of Israell shall bee sa­ued.

Hierusalem shall be built vp againe: and the second glory thereof shal be greater then the first.

The Church purged in the for­nace of tribulation: shal shine brigh­ter then euer before.

Righteousnes shall prosper: and infidelity shall bee plucked vp by the rootes.

God wil arise, as from a long slum­ber: and establish againe the Arke of his sanctification.

Feare not, little IACOB: hee that is thy Redeemer from the Di­uell, will be thy deliuerer from all [Page 27]euill.

His thou art, his flocke and fold: Catholike is thy name.

To hurt thee, is to hurt him: to touch thee, is to touch the apple of his eye.

Arise therefore from the earth, shake off sorrowes: thy confusion shall giue glace to glory.

The morning dewe is prest to fal: and the night to be discharged of her course.

With the eye of pitty the Lord of hostes shall visit vs: and send salua­tion to his people.

Turning their water into wine: their wormewood into suger canes.

His scattered flocke he will vnite againe: and reduce strayers into safe­ty.

The roote which hath waxen old vnder ground, shall shoote vp a­gaine: as a fresh plant by the riuer side.

No man shall vpbraid it vvith barrennes: or say it vvas a cursed stocke.

False errour shall vanishe like smoake: and they vvhich sawe it shall say, where is it become?

Iust judgement and holy lawes: shall be restored.

If a Woman can forget her child, or if we can forget our right handes: yet will not Christ be vnmindfull of Sion his heritage.

Sooner shall he forget his owne throne: then her desolation.

For ashes, hee shall giue her a Crowne: for baths of teares, vnction of joy.

Requiting her ignominy with ho­nour: her sackcloath of sorrowe with robes of festiuity.

His Tabernacle he will spred a­gaine: and dwell among vs as in time past.

Cladding his Priestes with holy­nes: [Page 29]and his seruants with purity.

Sacred songes shall breake their long silence: the lampe of our Lord shall be reuiued.

Preachers of saluation: shall with­out feare lift vs their voice.

The Churches shall be hallowed againe: & no vncleane persons shall enter therein.

The forrests and rockes shal send thither their chiefest glory: for beau­tifying of sacred workes.

Screetch-owles shall seeke newe habitation: and resigne to the simple Doue.

With sweeter then milke & hony: seauen fountaynes shal spring afresh, and flowe.

The resemblance of heauen shall be renewed: the resemblance of hell shall be destroyed.

England shall bee called a happy Realme: a blessed Country, a Reli­gious people.

Those which knewe the former glory of Religion: shall lift vp their handes for joy, to see it returned a­gaine.

Those which neuer sawe it: shall be stroaken with admiration.

VVishing that they had sooner knowne the truth: and condemning their fathers, which forsooke it.

Men shal say of it one to another: here is indeede the house of God, & the gate of heauen.

Howe great diuersity is betweene truth, and falshoode: deuout so­lemnities, and counterfeit ceremo­nies?

From the East point to the West: men shall confesse their errours.

They which thought themselues wisest: shall say they knew nothing.

Gladly shall people walke in their auncients steps of truth and equity: beginning to learne howe to loue God aright.

Howe to loue him, and serue him: howe to honour him sincerely in a perfect hart.

Be no more apald, O little flocke of Christ: the Prince of peace vvill breake the exactors rodde.

Rescuing you from captiuity: and bringing you vnto desirable pastures

Take courage for he is with you: his assistance neuer faileth.

To his glory he created you: and for his name sake he wil protect and saue you.

No longer will he dissemble the oppression of his people: he is bent to reuenge their cause.

The Daughters of Babilon shall be cast downe: and in the dust lament their ruine.

Proude Heresie shall strike her saile: and groane as a beast, crushed vnder a cartwheele.

Though her hart be flint: her neck yron, her forhead brasse.

The Omnipotent hath sworne to make her stoope: and that he vvill abase her haughtines.

Though shee fret his chosen vine neuer so much: in despight of her it shall shoote vp and prosper.

Ten times if it be cut downe: ten times it shall arise more glorious.

God hath planted it with his owne hand: he hath vvatered it vvith the bloud of Martirs, & it shall flourish.

He hath considered the insolency of our enemies: their cruell dealing hath not escaped his sight.

Howe arrogantly they walke be­fore our face: glorying in their wic­kednes.

But the memory of nouelties shall perish with a cracke: as a ruinous house falling to the ground.

Repent yee seducers with speede: and preuent the dreadfull wrath of the most powreable.

Least his ire tread vpon you: like [Page 33]a conquerour.

Least sodainely he draw you forth out of your terrestriall Paradise: as thornes, vvhich are not pulled vp with handes.

We haue long tasted the cup of his indignation: but for sinners he hath reserued the dregges thereof.

Greene and flourishing boughes haue not escaped his heauy hand: and shall he be mercifull to rotten branches?

Let iniquity no longer lie: decei­uing it selfe with vaine security.

For thus promiseth the defendor of Israell.

He will come as a flame: that bur­steth out beyond the fornace.

His enemies, shall be like stubble in his way.

His fury shal flie forth as thunder: and pitch vpon their tops, which ma­ligne him.

With him, is both wisdome and [Page 34]strength: he quaileth the world with a becke.

He knoweth how to dull the wea­pons of the mighty: and to frustrate the counsaile of the sage.

He buildeth, & breaketh scepters: and bringeth wisardes to their wittes end.

Pharao was by his plagues compel­led: to let the children of Israell Sa­crifice in liberty.

Cyrus by his aide conquered the Oppressor: & dissolued by his instinct, the long captiuity of Iuda.

A second Cyrus hath he stirred vp: confirming his scepter for the good of his people.

He shal likewise bring the Infants of Sion, from all quarters of their ba­nishment: joyfully shall they returne from forraigne landes.

And those Countries where now they harbour: shall finde succour in this Isle to their ovvne necessi­ties.

Thrise happy are yee who shall see those dayes: your hartes shall be replenished with joy.

There shal not be any more grief: misery, and tribulation.

But persecution shal be recoump­ted with mirth: as persons arriued discourse of shipwracke.

The arme of the malignant be­ing broaken: our LORD shall raigne in mens hartes, for euer and euer.

The tempestuous night being pas­sed: a perpetuall day shall be our comfort.

Which if we liue to see: to haue suffered for Christ, shall be a joy du­ring life.

If we die before: we rest in assu­red confidence, of a happy resurre­ction.

And alwayes an immaculate con­science, shall bee a svveete odour [Page 36]to the Almighty: and a banquet to our selues.

By affliction our soules are pur­ged of their drosse: and their imper­fections consumed.

By persecution we are tried as by the fanne: whether we will be car­ried away with euery wind.

They which nowe stand shall be planted afresh, as a glorious genera­tion: and be as principall stones in restauration of the Temple.

Aboundantly shall Gods mercies recompence their losses: gladnesse shal exceede their sorrowes an hun­dred-fold.

All that shall see them shall know and say: these are they which would not bowe to Baall.

Constant Confessors of Christ Ie­sus: & the only glory of our nation.

Iust is God in his judgementes: and hath ordayned a time, wherein to remember vs.

His comming shall be as a sweete showre to the parched ground: and as a labourers vvages at the vveekes end.

Cease shall our bondage: and he shall blesse vs vvith an eternall li­berty.

His truth, his justice, his Priestes, his Sacrifice: shal no more be taken away.

For a moment he afflicted vs: but for euer shall his consolation endure.

Nowe therefore shew your selues men: yee that endure for justifying your faith.

Runne forward without wearines: atchieue vvithout fainting a happy course.

A Crowne hangeth ouer your heades: vnspeakeable blisse is pre­pared for you.

God himselfe shall be your great reward: your hope is full of immor­tality.

MY hart melteth, and my bowels tremble: while I conferre the times, O my God.

The times of this our miserable age: with the golden dayes of our forefathers.

We haue heard with our eares: and thy Scribes haue commended to eternall memory.

The worke that thou wroughtest one thousand yeares past: in conuer­ting our Auncestors to the faith.

To a people that sate in darknesse [Page 39]and shadowe of death: it pleased thee to shew the light of thy countenance.

That the reliques of an Heathen nation should be saued: that no peo­ple should be exempt from know­ledge of thy lawe, and title to thy glory.

Thou preparedst thine elect ser­uant Gregory: to gouerne the Apo­stolike Sea.

A Pastor like Dauid: according to thine owne hart.

Who vvith great care executing his charge: fulfilled perfectly the name and office of a watchman.

Thou stirredst vp his hart: to en­terprise the conuersion of the En­glish.

And enflamedst his minde: with zeale of dilating thy name vnto the endes of the world.

While he was yet priuate: thou hadst sent of our youth to be sold at Rome.

Intending thereby: the accom­plishment of thy purposed mercy.

They were brought to the Mar­ket-place, to be cheapned as beastes: price was set vpon them as slaues.

Endevved yet vvith reasonable soules, and such visages: as commen­ded the excellency of thy beautifull workmanship.

Iust neuerthelesse was their pre­sent condition: vvho vvere bruite beastes by sinne, and slaues of the Diuell by infidelity.

Thy holy seruant sawe them: and his hart yearned at their calamity.

But thou inspiredst him that their saluation was neare: and that him­selfe should be the instrumēt thereof.

Thou placedst thy wordes in his lips: and hearing that they were cal­led Angles, he said.

To Angels this nation must be v­nited: whome in countenance they so resemble.

Vnderstāding their Prouince was called Deira: and their King Aëlle.

He inferred, that deliuered from Gods ire & indignation: they short­ly should sing Alleluia.

After this (O Lord) thou diddest raise vp Gregory: to be supreame Pa­stor of thy vniuersall flocke.

Thou gauest him both ability and will: to compasse that which he had before thirsted.

And to finish the worke: which thou secretly hadst in hand.

He sent Augustine thy approoued Priest: with a chosen company, fit for so great and holy an enterprise.

A long and weary some way they passed: but thou easedst their trauaile with daylie consolation.

In the midst of their journey their courage languished: but thou con­firmedst them afresh.

Through straunge landes, and vncouth wayes they passed: but thy [Page 42]hand euermore protected them.

They crossed the Seas: and came to an Island, whose tongue they vn­derstood not.

Thou didest alwayes assist them: and wert a present aide to their ne­cessities.

Thou art Lord of the Isles, no lesse then of the continent: neither doth distance of places abridge thy power.

Thus thou broughtest Monkes from beyond the high & insuperable Alpes: to kindle in Infidels hartes the fire of thy loue.

At their entrance they bare before them the triumphant signe of the Crosse: the badge of Christians, the memory of our Redemption.

A token that they preached the Sonne of Man crucified: a protesta­tion of their faith, and profession.

They sange the sacred Litanies with loude voice: inuocating Saints [Page 43]and Angels to their assistance.

Grace thou gauest them in the sight of Princes: and our Country beganne to yeald her fruits.

The seede vvhich they sovved tooke roote: and yealded encrease apace.

Through many tempestes, and stormes it preuailed: through con­tradictions it augmented the more.

They conquered this land to thy CHRIST: and subdued all mens hartes to thy Gospell.

Possessing the Prouinces not by the sword, but in thy word: not in their arme, but in thy spirit.

They established the function of thy holy Altar: wherein thy Sonne is both Priest and Sacrifice.

They administred the seauen SA­CRAMENTES: and planted the vvhole Doctrine of the Catholike Church.

They laide a firme foundation [Page 44]of their forefathers faith: with the honourable rites thereunto apper­tayning.

And once more this Island flou­rished afresh: recouering her aun­cient glory.

Which many yeares before shee had attayned: by embracing the Christian faith.

Vaunting her selfe to be the first Christian Prouince of the world: the eldest child of the Church.

The faithful throughout the earth: rejoyced at her Religious example.

Singing her happy choice, and ce­lebrating her with Titles: some of Christs birth-right, some of our La­dies dowry.

King Lucius by thy secret motion: inclined his hart to search thy truth.

Animated by thee (O Soueraigne Sanctifier) to Rome as the fountayne he sent for water of life.

Thy high Steward & Lieutenant [Page 45] Eleutherius: assigned Priests for exe­cution of his holy desires.

The light of thy word was soone spred through Britaine: to the salua­tion of many soules.

The Prophecy was so fulfilled: that from the Islāds our Lord should beginne his raigne.

In this thy garden grewe vvhite Lillies without number: and integri­ty of life adorned the Realme.

But neither was the red Rose wan­ting: purpled with the bloud of thy Saintes.

Alban the Prothomartir: for har­bouring a Priest lost his life.

Amphiabel thy consecrated seruant was slaine for thy sake: Iulius & Aa­ron with many more.

When the Saxons inuaded with fire and sword: thou laiedst not aside the care of thy land.

But pittying that Infidels should possesse the jewell: which thou lo­uedst [Page 46]so well.

Thou broughtest to passe by in­comprehensible wisdome: that they also were by Gregory conuerted.

Thus from the holy City, from Peters Seate: both the conquerour, and conquered receiued Religion.

And being otherwise mortall ene­mies: yet in points of beliefe con­sented in one.

Neither did the Brittaine argue the Saxon of heresie: or reproach him to haue receiued an vpstart and falsi­fied faith.

As likewise, neither did the Dane chaunge the Saxons beliefe: nor the victorious Norman bring in newe o­pinions.

For they found no other: then all Christendome at that time professed.

Of the faith Catholike, vvhich in this Island: thou (O eternal truth) hadest in this wise planted, watred, and established.

Who is able to comprehend the successe? what tongue can expresse the encrease?

All quarters of the earth talked of her fruit: all corners of this Realme testifie it.

So many Churches & Chappels so many Colledges and Hospitals: so many sundry foundations of charity.

So many thousandes of vowed Religious: among whome night nor day, thy prayses neuer ceassed.

Who spent their time in praying for their Country: putting them­selues as a wall betweene thy wrath, and the people.

Watching, vvhilst others slept: liuing in penance, whilst others past their time in pleasures.

No Country yealded more Kings Canonized for their liues: or Mar­tirs by their deaths.

More that visited in Pilgrimage: the Temples and Monuments of the [Page 48]chiefe Apostles.

More Princes which laying aside their Crowne and Scepter: in Re­ligious habite and Cloisters, finished their age.

Or more Queenes, and Kinges Daughters: who renouncing world­ly pompe, chose Christ for their Spouse.

Holy Bishops in whome thy hart was well pleased, were very many: some of which lost their liues for their flocke.

Thou hadst here also Eremites & Anchorets many: equall in perfe­ction to the Fathers of Aegipt.

Both sanctity and wisdome thou didst powre aboundantly: vpon di­uers of thy seruantes.

This Isle as a nource of learning: sent teachers into straunge landes.

As a Seminary of Religion: it did spread abroade the Christian faith.

No Country but boasteth of some [Page 49] English Saint: honouring his reliques, whose life they had in admiration.

Germany acknowledgeth from En­land: her first Apostles, and Euange­listes.

Who founded there thy faith, O Lord: by word, workes, and by their bloud.

By one of our nation: were the Noruegians reclaymed from their su­perstitions.

And the frosen nations of the North-pole: beganne to be enfla­med with thy loue.

Our Kinges also in honour of thy sacred name: and in signe of perfect vnion to thy Church;

Offered vp their protestation of obedient Children: and made the Realme tributary to Peters chaire.

They erected a Colledge at Rome thy holy City: that from whence their faith first proceeded, it might still be conserued.

The deuotion of all to thy holy and dreadfull Sacrifices: it is not my tongue, thou knowest, can ex­presse.

It vvas thou vvhich gauest them both ability and will to crect so ma­ny stately Temples, with towres a­spiring to the cloudes.

To adorne the same with such rich furniture: Crosses, Chalices, and shrines of pretious mettall.

So that neither sparing labour nor cost: they left examples of deuotion to all posterity.

Religious zeale being well groun­ded in all mens hartes: other fruits of good life followed accordingly.

The vine yealdeth not Scamony: the Pomegranate beareth not Colo­quintida.

Neither could good Doctrine: bring forth euill fruits.

It delighted thee to looke vpon this Realme: and to regard the state [Page 51]thereof.

To see howe parentes loued their children, more to thee then to the world: more by reason then fond affection.

Howe children obeyed their pa­rents, not to the eye only, but from the hart: not for their owne behoofe, but for thy commaundement.

Howe Masters to their seruants, seruants to their Masters: the Prince to the people, the people to the Prince.

Each obserued to other their duty inuiolable.

The Clergy to the laity: the laity toward the Clergy.

Howe all Superiors to their Infe­riors bare themselues vpright: and receiued likevvise of them their due.

Howe each man had just care of his soule: and fewe gaue themselues ouer to iniquity.

How sinners hastned by penance and teares: to reconcile themselues to thy mercifull Majesty.

All thinges went in order, and the sweet cōsort of the common wealth: was as the harmony of a wel-tuned instrument.

MY God, O my God; O God of our Auncestors: vvhere is the goodly tree of thy planting become?

Which prospered and grewe so mightily: which flourished so beau­tifully.

Whose shade was most pleasant [Page 53]and recreatiue: whose armes streat­ched to the foure Seas.

The Cedars of Libanus vvere not taller; the Palmes of Palestina fairer: nor the Okes of the forrest stronger.

I heard of the glory and fame thereof, and I wondred: I looked about to see it, and it is not to be found.

Alas, O Lord, that thou hast suf­fered a parching wind to blow from the North: which made the boughs thereof to wither, and the flourish thereof to decay.

The leaues first fell away by one and by one: other followed by ten and by twenty.

As when the Sunne draweth to his farthest point: and the cold nip­ping winter prepareth his recourse.

The smaller boughes beganne to fall to the ground: being become dry stickes without sappe.

The contagion at length posses­sing [Page 54]the hart: maine branches brake away.

The trunke all rotten fell downe: the fall thereof was very great.

The cracke vvas heard into all landes: and made Nations quake for feare.

Peeuish shrubs, whome her shade oppressed: & inferiour trees, whome her glory disgraced;

Such triumphed at her fall: and rejoyced at her ruine.

But the other goodly trees of the wood, pittied her calamity: and fea­red their owne estate.

Yet just art thou, O judge of all the world: and there is no iniquity in thy wayes.

Before thou didst thus abase our Nation, they sinned: and before thou didst so chastise our Country, it de­serued the rodde.

Our forefathers were vnmindfull of the multitude of thy mercies: and [Page 55]kept not the couenant of thy com­maundements.

But beginning to vvauer at the noyse of newe opinions: their man­ners drew infection from the weake­nesse of their faith.

When they sawe the theefe they followed him: to be partaker of his pray.

They joyned shot with the adul­terous generation: & furthered their proceedinges.

And eating with vncircūcised per­sons: mingled themselues with those, which thou hast strictly forbidden.

They learned their workes, they suckt in their opinions: and stumbled to their vtter ruine.

They found in their conuersation the scandall of Balam: eating & drin­king, and fornication.

Thy Nazarites were prouoked to violate their vowes: and inuited to meates renounced.

Way was by liberty made open to intrusion of a newe beliefe: and men vaunted their proper inuentions to be thy word.

Blessed is the memory, and euer­lasting is the glory of the shepherds: which looked well to their charge, at the time of Apostasie.

For the brightnesse of Israell was not quite put out: but that many lampes gaue their accustomed light.

Rather choosing triumphantly to loose their liues: then by yealding to betray their flocke.

Cursed for euer are those Prelates and Pastors: not worthy the name of subjectes and sheepe.

Who either slept while the Diuell sowed his cockle, O eternall re­proach! or like dumbe dogges bayed not when they sawe the wolfe.

Idols & stockes, not trusty watch­men: who sawe the sword comming, and gaue no warning.

But wonne with reward, or ama­zed with feare: suffered soules to be seduced.

The Prince frowning: and com­maunding his lawes to be obserued for Gods truth;

They staggered as men dronke: all their wisdome and learning was gone with a word.

Holding downe their heades as degenerate: & shrinking as rammes that had lost their hornes:

In steede of denouncing to people their daunger: and deterring them from iniquity.

They themselues yealded GODS honour to man: and augmented the scandall by their example.

Great was the multitude, which swaying with the time: did cut off themselues from the body of Chri­stendome.

The earth vvas infected vvith the pride thereof: and the aire detested [Page 58]so great abhomination.

The elementes were defiled with continuall sacrileges: the bloud of the Saintes cryed vengeance.

Angry vvast thou vvith those, which were once thy beloued peo­ple: and disclaymedst from England, as none of thine inheritance.

Also deliueredst vp therefore the faint-harted shepherdes, vvith their flockes: to the handes of their mor­tall enemies.

Thy Sacrifice was taken from an vnworthy generation: thy Ceremo­nies were abolished.

Vnder name of diuine seruice were obtruded newe rites: for thy Sonnes body, a bare peece of bread.

The table and cup of Diuels, was thrust vpon the people: with pray­ers thereunto belonging.

Blasphemies & heresies were pro­claymed for Gospell: and all mens mouths opened against heauen.

England, ah vngratefull England, forgate thee the liuing God: and felt the curse of hauing a child to her King.

Thus the bournes became de­sert: and a batefull land turned to a soure soile.

Catholike faith here first planted: vvhich neither Saxons altered, nor Dane abolished;

Which the Normans rejected not: which so many ages had not vvorne out;

Was nowe at last in a most infor­tunate age: corrupted, chaunged, & destroyed.

And our Nation after a thousand of yeares, Apostated from thy faith: to the vvhich it vvas first conuer­ted.

Yet remembring thy former mer­cies: thou didst dissolue at last this heauy yoake.

Sending a Debora, vvhich judged [Page 60] Israell in peace and tranquillity: and repared the late ruines.

But too soone thou tookest her a­way: for the vnworthinesse of her subjectes.

Quickly was thy goodnesse for­gotten: the Realme returning to her vomit.

Thou pouredst forth therefore thine indignation in aboundance: & kindledst all thy wrath to the full.

Thou gauest vs ouer to our owne inuentions: suffering vs vvith full saile to make our course.

Our sinnes deserued no lesse: yet vvhat could thy vvrath doe more extreame?

The Nobility to their owne vtter extirpation: shamefully forsooke their Bishops without assistance.

Who constantly in defence of the Church: pined all in durance and perished one by one.

The common sort went vniuer­sally [Page 61]to the golden Calues: and at the commaunders voice, bowed their knees to Baall.

Sincere Christians fled from Babi­lon: least they should be plunged in her iniquities.

Thou determinedst in thy wrath­full fury: to cast of England for euer­more.

To let it runne to the bottomelesse pit: and neuer to recall it to the faith.

But a Moyses stood vp before thee: entreating for his comfortlesse coun­try.

Appeasing thy wrath, thou saidst vnto him: prepare thy selfe to be my instrument.

For I will reare vp a newe genera­tion, of Priestes and people.

They vvhich so easily forsooke me in time of tentation: shall not en­ter into the land of promise.

Forthwith didst thou puruey in a straunge lande: a receptacle for thy [Page 62]people, a refuge for thy persecu­ted.

Choosing out such as it pleased thee: of whome to frame vessels of honour.

Many thou drewst to thy seruice: by whome the Diuell wished to set forth his owne glory.

As diligent bees they gathered hony in aboundance: for succour of their distressed Country.

Being deliuered like Israelites out of the fornace of Aegipt: and called like Abraham from house and kind­red.

Thou inspiredst them vvith de­sire of conuerting soules: and sen­test them in due season of thy har­uest.

Vnder banner of a second Gregory: they aduentured the second conuer­sion of their Nation.

Opposing thēselues to the streame of the time: hope against hope was [Page 63]their comfort.

As thou gauest them learning, which their aduersaries can not re­sist: so constancy, which they can not ouercome.

They purchased soules by their Doctrine: and confirmed them by seale of their bloud.

Springes of health were opened: & from all coastes men sought helpe of their maladies.

The cause waxed famous: men beganne to lift vp their eyes, and flowe to the Church apace.

Sound of the Catholike faith, pearced through the Island: and none can anie more pleade igno­rance.

Darknesse stroue to repell light: not able to endure the glimps there­of.

The Diuell armed himselfe with furie to maintayne his KING­DOME: feelinge the foundation [Page 64]thereof to tremble.

Rigourous lawes were made: and executed with all extreamity.

Worse and worse daylie added: seuerity finding neither end, nor measure.

In these tearmes of contradiction (O ineffable Majesty) standeth thou seest, our miserable Britany.

Who by this time (hadst thou not sent supply) had become worse then Sodome and Gomorrha.

Iniquity hath ingendred impiety: and want of faith, hath brought forth double iniquity.

Ah thou eldest Daughter of Sion: howe is thy beauty faded?

Howe miserable is nowe the land: wont to be so happy and fortunate?

The Lady of Isles is become like a perilous rocke: which farre and neere is shunned for danger of ship­wracke.

Or as a cursed quick-sand: infa­mous [Page 65]through destruction of many passengers swallowed.

The chiefe of Prouinces is be­come the basest: the most Religious, turned to most sacrilegious.

Woe to a sinnefull people: whose burden is iniquity.

Woe to an Apostatrice nation: who like an Harlot hath broaken her faith.

From the crowne of the head to the sole of the foote: shee is full of sores and maladies.

Who is able to cure her leprosie: and to remedy her loathsomenesse?

She is proued a bastard vine: and degenerated to a soure grape.

A froward bowe, which will ra­ther flie in peeces: then come to the bent.

A fruitlesse and barren soile: not answerable to the sowers hope.

Against thee her God, she hath lifted vp her hand: against the om­nipotent [Page 66]she hath vaunted her fea­thers.

With a proude gate, and lofty countenance, she hath stalked against thee: as though she would checke thee to thy face.

She saith I am safe, in the midest of waters: my shippes are my brasen wall.

Yet is she flesh, and not a spirit: a worme and not a God.

Be it that she soareth as high as an Eagle: shee should be reached with thy arrowe: but spare her, O Lord.

Be it she were as stronge as steele, shee should bee dashed in peeces by thy fury: but mittigate thy wrath.

She extolleth her selfe in conceipt of prosperity: and vannteth her pro­ceedinges in iniquity.

In a moment canst thou crush her bones: and lay her pride in [Page 67]the dust: but, oh remember thy mercy.

VVhat-soeuer this people thin­keth, is meere iniquity: all their communication, is conspiracy a­gainst heauen, and treason against thee.

They haue all made a league with death: and concluded a couenant with hell.

Their feete are svvifte to euill: and their handes stronge to doe mis­chiefe.

The earth it selfe is infected with wickednesse of the inhabitants: and cryeth vnto thee for vengeance.

And possibly vvould svvallovve them, as it did Chore and his com­pany: vvere it not for thy elect sake.

Reuenging fire of Sodome and Go­morrha, might be justly feared: if the faithfull stayed not thy rodde.

If any forsake iniquity, he is made [Page 68]a pray: our chanels flow with bloud.

Who did euer heare such horrible thinges: as this people commit a­gainst thee their maker?

Degenerated is thy vineyarde and turned wilde: yealding verjuce for wine.

Thy darling and vowed Virgin: hath giuen ouer her selfe, common to all adulteries.

To Luther and Caluin she hath o­pened her bosome: and to whome so-euer else, that would dishonour her.

She hath sought her louers farre and neere: and hired teachers for her itching eares.

She careth not whome she admit, so she admit not thee her first spouse: nor whither she runne, so she flie from thy face.

As a woman contemneth her hus­band, so hath she contemned thee: and with disdaine turned her backe.

Defending her iniquity vnder pre­text of thy glory: she dareth to say; I am no adulteresse, I am no Apo­statrice.

Her brasen face cannot blush: her impudent minde can conceiue no re­pentance.

But if she harden her face not to repent: harden the face of thy mes­sengers to reprehend.

If she harden her face to perse­cute: harden thou their face to with­stand.

Confirme the hartes of those thy labourers: endue them with strength from aboue, and giue successe vnto their endeauours.

Whose only presence represen­teth in some sort: the state of former times.

And maintayneth thy holy fire: that it goe not out.

Diminish not their number, be­cause of our sinnes, and vnworthy­nesse: [Page 70]but encrease it for our better comfort.

That the daylie foode of our soules we may receiue at their hands: and not want their assistance in our extreamities.

Protect them night and day from their enemies: wheresoeuer thy bu­sines detayneth them.

Embolden our harts with courage from heauen: to concurre with them freely in furthering thy seruice.

Fully thereby to discharge our Christian duty: and be partaker of their reward and Crowne.

So may they build apace the wales of thy Hierusalem: and winne innu­merable soules to thy Kingdome.

So may they speedily bring to passe: that auncient happinesse may returne.

So may thy Temples be clensed of their abhominations: returning to the vse whereunto they were buil­ded.

No longer be dennes of Diuels: and instruments of thy dishonour.

Be it so, O mighty Patron of thy afflicted: be it so.

And all that loue their Country: let this be their daylie teares.

COME and consider vvith me the sweetnesse of our Lord: O all yee, that be of his holy congregation. Come and consider with me the glory of his Spouse: O all yee, that dwell in her Tabernacle.

Come and consider with me the happinesse of your owne soules: yee which haue entred into the sanctuary of our God.

Meditate his goodnes in the night: & in the day time lift vp your handes vnto his holy Seate.

Great is he, and vvorthy of all prayse: thy workes beare witnesse of thee, O Lord.

Thou hast erected thy Church, as thy Kingdome vpon earth: her glo­ry shall not depart from the lippes of thy Saintes.

In thy only Sonne it was founded from the beginning: and to the end of the world it shall endure.

For faithfull art thou in all thy wordes: and holy in all thy workes.

Iust & righteous in all thy wayes: and perfect in thy determinations.

As in the sunne-beames, thou hast placed this thy Tabernacle: that the vertue thereof might comfort the [Page 73]world.

Vpon an hill thou hast situated thy City: whither all people should repaire for lawes, and doctrine.

This is the Queene standing at thy right hand: glittering in gold, and rich attire.

Thy Spouse, vvhome thou canst not, but loue: thy turtle, which can not, but be chast and true.

The piller of truth: whereupon thy faith is builded.

The rocke, against vvhich hell gates shall not preuaile.

The ship which thou permittest to be tossed: but neuer sufferest to be ouerwhelmed.

The arke ordayned to saue the e­lect: out of which who so is found, perisheth euerlastingly.

The sanctuary of refuge: whither to flie from the anger to come.

The mount of thy sanctification: which the right hand hath cōquered.

The inheritance, which thou hast purchased with thy Sonnes bloud.

A pauilion immoueable: vvhose pinnes can neuer bee pulled out, whose cordes can neuer be broaken.

A high and strong Castle, vvhose vvalles are Adamant: against which no strength can preuaile.

A massy & hard stone: vpō whome it lighteth, it crusheth him in peeces.

All benediction thou hast bestow­ed vpon thy Church: vvho hath not her for Mother, shall not haue thee for Father.

In her only thou hast established thy true worship: and confirmed it neuer to faile.

As other people haue Gods: none the true God but Christians:

So may factions adore the also: none truly and fruitfully, but thy Ca­tholike Church alone.

Among all trees thou hast chosen one Palme: amōg al birds one Doue.

Among all flowres thou hast pre­ferred one Lilly: among all hilles one Sion.

All nations are thy subjectes and creatures: but we thine inheritance.

Rejoyce and be glad, yee inhabi­tants of Hierusalem: among whome is the great and holy one of Israell.

Yee are all like Gods: the true children of the Highest.

Happy are the eyes, vvhich see that yee see: and enjoy the presence of him, whome yee adore

Happy are the eares, that heare, what yee heare: and the harts, which are partakers of your instructions.

No nation vnder heauen hath a God so potent, so louing: so neere to them, which worship him.

More pretious are your soules in his sight: then the Phoenix or the Vnicornes fole.

He hath raised vnto you a seate of mercy: whither to haue recourse [Page 76]for remission of sinnes.

And prepared a table for your re­fection: wherein himselfe is the ban­quet and feast.

O howe delectable are thy dain­ties, O Lord? howe acceptable are thy holy Altars?

Much better are the reliques there of: then the exquisite cates of princes.

Much better is it to be an abject in thy houshold: then a great man in Kings Courtes.

The meanest in thy Church is no­ble: the poorest in thy Church is rich.

Who is able to expresse the mag­nificence of thy Church: or the one halfe of her glory?

We haue Priestes rightly conse­crated: and anointed in sacred wise.

Orderly accomplishing thy dread full misteries: in vestments of holy­nesse and honour.

Monkes, and other Religious per­sons: [Page 77]persisting day and night in prayer.

With fasting and disciplines affli­cting themselues: in sackcloath and hayre for the sinnes of the people.

Vowed Virgins, veiled hand­maides of thy Christ: by like order of life contend for like Crowne.

And fixing him profoundly in hart: whome they haue chosen as celestiall Spouse.

Endeauour nothing else, then to be perfect in his sight: and serue him without distraction.

Vpon the society of thy faithfull: legions of Angels attend for their defence.

Vpon them thy eyes are perpe­tually open: to consider their wants, and heare their prayers.

Who liueth in their vnity, is in the communion of Saintes: partaker of their assistance and patronage.

Hath his part in euery good deed: [Page 78]and is daylie prayd for, throughout the world.

Who dieth a liuely member of this holy body misticall: by prayers of the liuing hath remission of payne.

Happy art thou, O flocke of Peter: blessed are all nations, subject to his chaire.

Where sit the judges of the house of Iacob: the rodde and scepter of thy Kingdome, O Redeemer.

Thy selfe art a watchman ouer it, who neuer sleepest: a protector, who neuer slumbrest.

Whosoeuer impugne it shall rotte as they liue: their eyes shall sinke, and their tongue shall be eaten out.

They shall perish in thy fury: and melt like waxe before the fire.

None shall resist thy Church, and be innocent.

No man fighteth against her with­out foile: he dasheth his fist against a Rocke.

Her enemies shall licke the dust of her feete: and those which oppugned her, kisse her steps.

Such as will not, shall be called a reprobate company: vvith vvhome thou wilt exercise eternall wrath.

Aboundance of blessinges vpon all them, which honour her: and curses eternally will followe them, which vexe her.

Her loue and mercy is more: then the tender hart of a Mother.

Her anger more to be feared: then a Princes rage.

In her remayneth knowledge, vvhich can not erre: power, vvhich may not be contradicted.

In her is the treasure of thy Sons merits reposed.

In her possession are the Keyes of thy heauenly Kingdome.

Thou art her teacher: that shee may not be ignorant.

The holy Ghost is her sanctifier: [Page 80]to preserue her from iniquity.

As the Moone from the Sunne fetcheth her light: so is she illumi­nated from Christ her Spouse.

In her only dost thou raigne with magnificence: in her only thou art to be found.

Not so the Sinagogue of the wic­ked: not so the congregation of He­retikes.

Among whome, as in his King­dome, sitteth the Prince of pride: who hath dominion ouer all children of darknesse.

Presuming as though they were thy counsailors: or as if the holy Ghost spake in their eare.

As though they were the lampes of the world: with whome Religion was borne, & with whome it should die.

They say to the auncient Fathers, hold your peace: and to the Do­ctors of the Church, we will teach [Page 81]you wisedome.

But their pride is more then their power: for thou dwellest not in harts subject to sinfulnesse.

Swelling in cogitations of their harts: they proudly tosse vp their heddes, as vntamed coltes.

As childrē of Belial without yoke: they challenge liberty without obe­dience.

Priestes they make to themselues for their newe lawe: and put vpon them authority, which they cannot giue.

Like Apostata children they haue made assemblies, & not in thy name: begonne a webbe, and not in thy spirit.

False Prophets sell them follies and lies: and set cushions of ease vn­der sinners elbowes.

For a little lucre they justifie the wicked: vpon confidence of faith, they assure saluation.

Peoples sores they close vvith a false skinne: vvhen the vvound fe­streth, they say all is well.

Eating in effect the peoples sinnes: and cloathing themselues vvith their iniquities.

In steede of the supersubstantiall Bread of life, they giue them Ser­pents: for the Chalice of saluation, poyson of Adders.

Making thee more vnjust then a­ny Tyrant: they teach that thou pu­nishest all sinnes with equall payne.

And that vvithout difference of desertes: thou rewardest all vvith e­quall glory.

They say thou canst not make thy Saints and Angels, to vnderstand our prayers: nor shewe to them thinges done in earth.

They foolishly say that thou wilt not haue vs honour thy friendes: and that thou settest litle by their inter­cession.

Denying that vvhose sinnes the Church forgiueth, are forgiuen in heauen: they say thou canst not giue such authority to man.

Doubting of thy Omnipotency, they say with the Capharnaits: howe can Christ giue vs his body for food?

With the faithlesse they sticke not to say: his wordes are hard, and who can beleeue him?

His promise of being vvith his Church to the end of the vvorld: they contemne.

And that the Holy Ghost shall teach her all truth they credit not.

Wanting the band of vnity: vnder, seuerall heades, they make seuerall companies, and sects.

Hauing no certayne rule of faith, each is author of his owne beliefe: framing a Religion by priuate fancy.

Both in Doctrine and life, all dis­order is among them: eternall hor­rour, and confusion.

Oh with how great difference (most supereminent light) hast thou seperated Israell from the Aegyptians?

So plaine hast thou made the high way of truth: that a very foole neede not misse the path.

Our enemies giue testimony to our faith: and confesse that we may be saued therein.

They which oppugne it doe justi­fie it: in confessing the primitiue Doctors to haue erred with vs.

And thy Church not vnmindefull of her great priuiledge: nor vngrate­full for thy benefits.

Honoureth thee alwaies with in­ward purity, worthy of thy holines: and with outward ornaments, wor­thy of thy Majesty.

Seauen times in the day shee sin­geth thy prayses: and prayeth for Catholikes throughout the world.

Heare her prayers (O enemy of falshood) and giue all the earth to [Page 85]vnderstand;

That Heresie is a tempest raging only for a time: but the foundation of thy Church endureth for euer.

MEDITATE, O my soule, a newe song: open my lips to a psalme of thanks­giuing.

Rejoyce in him that made thee: rejoyce in him that redeemed thee.

Rejoyce in him that conserueth thee: rejoyce in him that sanctifieth thee.

Rejoyce in thy Lord, thy God: rejoyce in thy King, and Captayne.

He hath delighted in thee, and lo­ued thee: and exalted thee to salua­tion.

Lifted vp thy head: and awaked thee from sleepe of death.

Broaken thy bondes asunder, and set thee at liberty: that thou shouldst liue acceptably before him, in the land of the liuing.

VVhilst thou walkedst peruerse paths, he regarding thy misery: de­termined better of thee, then thou didst deserue.

From thee, not ceassing to offend him daylie, hee turned avvay his anger: and kindled not all his wrath.

His eye of pitie hee fixed vpon thee: when thou wert vtterly vn­mindfull of him.

By secreet and sundry meanes: he drewe thee to his seruice.

Cleane he hath wiped thee from al filth: placed thee in a faire way, and bid thee walke therein.

As the potter frameth his vessell, or the jueller polisheth his pretious stone: so laboured he thee, to his ho­ly purpose.

By open examples: by priuie in­spirations.

By threats and allurements, by prosperity and aduersity: he ceassed not to call thee.

Aproach therefore, O yee, which feare our Lord: herken what great mercy hee hath performed in my soule.

I will sing vnto him for his abun­dant clemency: I vvill prayse the name of the Highest.

He who from a-loft, watreth the hilles with sweete showres: that the earth may bring forth her encrease;

Hath refreshed my barraine soule with heauenly dewes of grace: that it [Page 88]may waxe fruitfull to righteousnesse.

Hee who prouideth wherewith the beastes of the desert may quench their thirst:

Hath not suffered my soule: to perish in a desolate lande.

He which neasteth the birdes in trees, and fowles in the rockes: hath placed me in the tree of his owne planting, and in the rocke of his owne foundation.

Thou gauest me knowledge, O my God, to seeke remission of sins: and inckling to flie from the wrath to come.

As the day-starre arising from the East: thou shalt chase darknes from my hart.

I heard thy voyce as a whispering in mine eare, and trembled thereat: I felt thy knocking, as of one desi­rous to be let in.

So had I often donne before, but still was obstinate: exasperating too [Page 89]too much thy long patience.

Pardon me, O Lord, that I was so dull to heare thee: pardon me, and I will redeeme those dayes with great diligence.

Pardon me, for thou knowest we are flesh and bloud: prone to euill, and slowe to piety.

At last thou calledst me with an effectuall voice: and I answered, I am ready.

For why thou knewest what was fittest to mooue me: and gauest me thy hand to helpe me vp.

I cast off my former damnable sloath: and set forward my feete to the pathes of peace.

I saide to my selfe, hie thee O wreatch, into the house of God: in­to the lappe of his holy Spouse.

I resolued to take no repast, nor enter into the bed of my repose: vn­till my soule were made the Temple of the Holy ghost.

Vntill shee had made her peace with the Almighty: and were purged of her iniquities;

Wherby endued with grace I might securely go to rest: & sleep in saluatiō

I bowed my knees, and lifting vp my handes: humbly besought thee, Author of all goodnesse;

Happily to accomplish the worke which thou hadst begone in me: and to set me in state of grace.

Thou heardst my prayer: and I atchieued the just desire of my hart.

I sought earnestly to finde one of thine anointed: for discharge of my conscience.

One of those vvhome thou hast chosen: and sent to guide people to thy Kingdome.

To whome Christ bequeathed the exercise of his function: as he before had receiued it of his Father.

To vvhome hee gaue the Holy Ghost: promising that in forgiuing or loosing sinners, their judgement [Page 91]he would ratifie.

In vvhome hee hath placed the word of reconciliation: and the ad­ministration of his holy Testament.

Sending them as Embassadors to declare his will: and commaunding to receiue them as representers of his owne person.

Hard was it for me to finde such one of thy seruants: for the dayes of Elias are returned, when the Prophets were hidden in caues.

Yet thou gauest me fauour in the sight of thy Sunamite: I was admitted to speech of the heauenly Physician.

Embracing his spirituall exhorta­tiō: in solitarynes I began to prepare.

I sate downe & streightly exami­ned my soule: as he, which is to ren­der account of most weighty matters.

Our aduersary the Diuel stood on my left side, and said: wilt thou con­fesse thy secrets to a sinnefull man?

I answered, auant Satan, who ha­uing made me impudent to sinne: [Page 92]suggestest shame of repentance.

He wished me to differ till a fitter time: and said, there was no hast.

But considering howe long I had prouoked thy patience: I feared by sodain summos of death, to be taught vnprouided.

He proposed danger of the lawe: I replied, that God was to be obeyed before Princes.

He objected that the Lord only forgiueth sinnes: I answered, that from him only I expected remission, but by ministery of man.

As likewise in thy name (O migh­ty of mightiest) Physitions heale, and thy Saintes worke miracles, thou be­ing the author of both.

I letted not therefore to disclose my sinnes to thy seruant: that I might of him receiue absolution, and coun­saile.

I discouered euen my most secret sores, as to a skilfull Chirurgion: and [Page 93]obtayned with health, holsome pre­seruatiues.

Recounting my sinnes in the bit­ternesse of my soule: I accused my selfe with my owne lippes.

I sorrowed for all, knowing that thou wilt not be serued by halues: and that thou acceptest not him, which renounceth not euery sinne.

I confessed all: knowing that cur­sed is he, who lieth to the holy ghost.

Abhominable is a dissembler in thy Sacraments: & his fruit as of him, who layeth venime to his wound.

Or thinketh to be eased of his bur­den: vvhen he foolishly addeth a mighty weight to his backe.

I ouercame shame, and endured to blush: that in the world to come I might not be confounded.

But, oh howe soone did I receiue the reward of my labour: vvho can expresse the sweetnesse that I found in my soule?

I tasted of thy dainties (O Soue­raigne sweetnesse) vvhich thou hast reserued for them, which feare thee.

The excellency whereof none can imagin: but they only which proue it.

A droppe (as it were) I felt of the celestiall fountayne: wherewith thou blessest thy Saints and Angels.

A testimony of thy inuisible grace; a seale of the remission of my sinnes: a pledge of eternall glory.

When shall the memory of that time be renewed: by experiment of like joy?

Which while I tasted I could hun­ger nothing else, then righteousnes: nor thirst any thing, but the King­dome of heauen.

I said boldly, come death nowe when thou wilt: I haue vnburdned my soule, and am ready.

Flie Satan, I renounce thee for e­uer: thou hast no part in me at all.

The bloud of our LORD hath [Page 95]washed me: and the merit of his Pas­sion hath made me hole.

Nowe finde I them lyers, which slaundered our holy Mother: terri­fying me from her Paradise.

Sects haue a shadowe and name of Religion: not like thy lawe, O Lord.

I found thy faith to be vnspotted: without stayne of any folly.

Conuerting soules from their sin­full wayes: and giuing wisdome to the ignorant.

Pearcing to the very hart: and comfortable to a single spirit.

Quickly was my desolation tur­ned to joy: thou claddedst me vvith consolation, as with a robe.

Nowe therefore being redeemed by my Maker: from the hands of the enemy;

I confesse that he is gentle, good, and exceeding bountifull: and his mercy endureth for euer.

I sate in darknesse, and in the [Page 96]shadowe of death: and there vvas none to helpe me.

I cried vnto him, & he ayded me: breaking my fetters in sunder.

Had he not assisted me: the ene­my had euen swallowed me quicke.

Blessed be his holy name: vvho gaue me not for a pray to the Dra­gons jawes.

As a litle bird I escaped the fow­lers net: as the silly hare from the pursuing gray-hound.

By the old aduersary of mankinde I had beene seduced: and supplanted by his malice.

My God streatched out his po­tent hand: deliuering me from the violent streame.

Who caught me in his armes, as if a father should catch his child: from the deuouring beare.

Because he loued me, he sought my saluation: not suffering the ene­my to triumph.

Prayse him therefore, O my soule: be not vngratefull for his benefits.

Forget not what he hath done for thee: preuenting thee in his bles­singes.

He hath made thee flourish afresh: as in the yeares of thy first regenera­tion.

Restoring thy innocency againe: and renewing thy youth as an Eagle.

As farre as heauen is from earth, or East from West: so farre hath he remooued from thee thine iniquities.

He hath crowned thee with better then pretious stones: all parts and povvers vvithin mee, magnifie his mercy.

I staggered in attempting my sal­uation: the difficulties of the time a­mazed me.

Thou girdedst me with vertue: & vnder thy protection I ouercame those tentations.

I was slowe and weake, thou ma­dest [Page 98]me swift like an Hart: that I ran forwardes without impediment.

Thou hast taught me to fight mā ­fully against the enemy: and confir­med my hart to be thy champion.

Thou hast raised me from vvorse then the dunghill: and placed me a­mōgst thy holy, & princely people.

Out of the lake of misery thou hast pulled me: and from the dirty dregs of sinne, & heresie, thou hast drawne me forth.

From Deaths dore thou reuiuedst me: from Hel-gates thou broughtest me backe.

Oft to the barrē thou sendest chil­dren: to me an orphane thou gauest thy Spouse for a Mother.

Many vvonderfull thinges thou bring est to passe: none more strange doe I knowe, then the conuersion of my hard hart.

Many wayes thy mercy sheweth it selfe: but neuer more then in par­doning [Page 99]my offences.

What should I say, O Lord? thou hast engraffed thy name in my hart: and enroled my name in thy booke of life.

Thou hast shrowded mee in thy tabernacle: against the day of wrath;

Opening to me the gates: where none but the just enter.

In vaine haue the fiends like foxes sought my soule: departing voide of their expectation.

I will loue thee therefore, O my aide and refuge: my strength, and the foundation of my hope.

The new tune which thou hast gi­uen to my mouth: I wil alwayes sing.

I will offer before thy Altar a Sa­crifice of prayse: in the sight of thy Angels & Saints I will giue thankes.

The cup of thy Crosse I will ex­pect: desiring to suffer for thy sake.

What other way can I be answe­rable to thy giftes? or how can I doe [Page 100]this also, except thou giue it.

Thou needest neither me, nor my good deedes: thou hast chosen me, and not I thee, O Redeemer.

My conuersion vvas thy handy­worke: without whose assistance I can not thinke a good thought.

Who am I, O Fountayne of good­nesse: that thou thus shouldest ma­nifest thy selfe vnto me?

That suffering thousandes to wal­lowe still in wickednesse: thou cho­sest me on whome to shewe mercy.

Neither tookest me out of this life in time of blindnesse: in midest of mine iniquities.

To thy selfe, O Lord, to thy selfe: bee the glory of this thy mercifull kindnesse.

Let the heauens prayse thee for it: and in earth others be conuerted by my example.

Let my daylie endeauours be to further thy faith: and drawe others [Page 101]to the delectable spring, wherewith my selfe haue beene refreshed.

So shall thy graces in some sort re­dound to thee againe: as floodes re­turne to the Sea.

So shall I not perish like an vn­fruitfull tree: which leaueth not his like behinde.

Prayse yee meane-space, your Creator and mine, O yee his Angels: who rejoyce at conuersion of euery sinner.

Who perpetually execute his wil: without declining at any time from his hests.

Prayse yee him, O his holy Priests: messengers of his will, shepherdes of his folde: by whose handes he re­concileth sinners.

Prayse yee him, O al yee my Bre­thren: partakers of like saluation.

Whome of caytiues plunged in like errours: he hath justified, and made righteous.

Prayse yee him, O all his seruants: neuer yet entangled with like misery.

Prayse him, O my soule, whilst thou quicknest my body: when thou partest by death, ceasse not to doe the same.

And when thou receiuest the bo­dy againe: prayse him perfectly without end.

THOV taughtest me perfect wisdome in my first con­uersion, O Lord: and I verily trusted neuer more [Page 103]to be shaken.

In the day of her reconciliation, thou saidst vnto my soule: nowe art thou my faire Spouse, this day haue I assumed thee.

Why then doth the tempter whi­sper in my eare, and say: hovve long vvilt thou serue thy GOD in vaine?

Why doe the speeches of those mooue my minde: who saying they loue me well, vpbraide me to my face of follie.

Objecting that I spend my age in wilfull calamity: neither reape the pleasure of my life.

Remember, O Lord, the comfor­table word: that thou spakest to my hart.

Preserue me still among the gene­ration, which seeketh thee: which alone enjoyeth thy presence & pro­tection.

Which with vndefiled lippes and [Page 104]cleane hart, offer vp day lie sacrifices: and magnifie thy holy name.

Among whome only, is saluation to be hoped for: and thy true honour to be found.

Let mee alwayes put my trust in thee: and neuer be ashamed of the God of my forefathers;

Nor deny my selfe: to be of his holy chosen company.

Keepe me, O my maker; that ne­uer in thought, word, or deede: I consent to rites of a straunge Religi­on, or partake in their actions.

Neither openly, nor priuily, in speech nor silence: by action nor o­mission, or any signe whatsoeuer.

Least I bee enwrapped in their plagues, because of their company: and drinke the cup of their damna­tion.

Let neither friendship, nor hatred: profit nor losse;

Payne nor pleasure, life nor death: [Page 105]separate me from thy Church.

Suffer not that my brethren, and fellowe seruants: stumble by my ex­ample, to their ruine;

Or say of me; see howe he hath lost his part in Israell: his inheritance aboue the starres.

Loe howe he was not built vpon a rocke, but vpon sand: great and shamefull is his fall.

Permit not that my ghostly ene­mies scorne at me, and point me out: this is he, whose soule we haue sedu­ced.

Who beganne a worke, and could not finish it: satisfying our eyes with his disgrace.

Let not the aduersaries of thy law and testament: triumph ouer me as of a conquest.

Conceiuing by my example that more will yeald: and fewe resist a cruell assault.

And that we esteeme no more of [Page 106]our faith, then they of theirs: nor haue assured certainty of our Reli­gion.

Forbidde the fowles of the ayre, the fiendes of hell: to take from my hart the seede, which thou hast sow­en.

Forbidde that either riches and cares choke it: or the heate of perse­cution wither it.

Forbidde that perswasions of car­nall friends should corrupt it: or any thing else hinder the encrease there­of.

Fie, that wealth should be dearer to me, then my faith▪ or worldlie friendes, then my God.

Heretofore I comforted other: and when I am touched my selfe, shall I tremble?

Where is then my awe and loue? where is sortitude and patience?

Where is the dutie of a Christian man become?

The constancie and seruice, which I owe to thee my GOD, I vvill alwaies keepe: to thee my life shall liue.

The word of truth take not out of my mouth: for in thee is all my con­fidence.

Cursed are they: which decline from thy Commandements.

All iniquity therefore bee farre from me: still may I cleaue to thy lawe.

Dilate my hart, comfort my spi­rit: that I may cheerefully runne my race, and gayne my crowne.

Shall I not loue thee: whome on­ly I ought to serue?

Shall I joyne with thy enemies: in their prouocations and blasphe­mies?

Or shall I lie with my lippes, and say I loue thee: when I doe not fol­lowe thee?

No, no, I vvill confesse thy [Page 108]Religion: neither before people, or Magistrate will I be ashamed.

Least thou deny me likewise at the latter day: and before thy An­gels and Saints, put me to confusion.

If they vrge me with obedience: I will not let to tell them, that God must be obeyed before man.

If they threaten paynes: I will set before mine eyes the euerlasting tor­ments, prepared for rennegats.

I will tell them, that whatsoeuer they can doe: must haue a short end.

Happy man, who escapeth paines: which neuer cease.

If they punish me, I will with thy Apostles rejoyce: that thou hast vouchsafed me, to suffer for thy sake.

If they kill me, it is the vtmost of their power: and the beginning of my glory.

Yet know I that Satan is chayned: and can not hurt a hayre, but by thy permission.

Thou art my light, and my salua­tion, whome should I feare? thou art my protector, whereat should I quake?

Heauen fall; the earth sinke: the whole frame of the world turne vp­side downe;

All that is therein runne to confu­fusion: chaunce vvhatsoeuer may chaunce;

Rather then that I forsake my faith: by renouncing to be of thy holy congregation.

One thing only is necessary, O my Lord, and my God: to serue thee stedfastly; and all thinges else are vaine.

In this happy course begonne: graunt that I faint not, during my life.

The zeale which thou once didst in me kindle: suffer not to waxe cold.

Let not the spirit of thy loue: be in me extinguished.

Though I forsake all for the pre­tious pearle: which thou hast reuea­led vnto the world:

Yea though I forsake my selfe al­so: I buy it not too deare.

Thou hast shewed me a hidden treasure: the price of the field, I must, and will pay.

This only with Dauid I aske of thy diuine Majesty: to dwell in thy house all the dayes of my life.

To be a member of thy holy bo­dy mysticall: a childe of thy Spouse for euer.

That I may be partaker: of thy perpetuall Sacrifice;

Whereby thy Passion is applyed vnto vs: and we reape the fruit of our redemption.

Giue me thy grace, O thou which sanctifiest soules: giue me strength and courage, giue me wisdome and patience.

Then, though a thousand fall on [Page 111]my right side, and ten thousand on my left: yet will I stand.

Though those, which shine like the Sunne and Moone, fall from thy kingdome: yet will I be sted­fast.

Thou forsakest none, except they first forsake thee: confirme there­fore my heart, that it may neuer quaile

Confidence in mine owne power I haue none: but what is it that in thee, I dare not vndertake?

In thee, who art the mightiest, haue I placed my hope: thou art my refuge, to thee I commend my selfe.

Thou shalt deliuer mee from the open arrovve by day: and from darke daungers of secret malice.

From the Day-diuell, and tem­ptations: vvhich comming in their ovvne likenesse, dare shewe their face.

And from the night spirits: which shroude themselues vnder faire pre­tences.

Whatsoeuer become of me, to thy blessed will I resigne vp my selfe: my fortune is in thy hand.

Great, O Lord, art thou; great is thy might: and thy wisdome is in­comprehensible.

Many perils our frailty is wont to fore-cast: still we cry, fearing to be drowned.

But if we delight in thee thou wilt, thou wilt giue vs our desires: and bring those feares to nothing.

Men will forge excuses: to serue their turne.

And a thousand shiftes iniquity searcheth: to build vnto it selfe a sinnefull, and false security.

Thou searchest the harts & peines: discerning easily howe men flatter themselues.

Shall I (as diuers doe) blind mine [Page 113]eyes, least I should see? or when I see, shall I not vnderstand?

Shall I seeke darknesse in the o­pen Sunne: and subject my con­science to my will?

Direct my paths according to thy lawe: that vnrighteousnesse neuer subdue me.

Regard my affliction and combat: dispose of me according to thy pro­uidence ouer the Elect.

Keepe my feete from sliding, and be still before mine eyes: preserue my soule from the death of deadly sinne.

For those which so die inherit not with thee: but with them in whose seruice they partake.

Thou hast once lightned my lāpe: keepe me therefore euermore from darknesse.

Examples sometime doe giue me scandall: prouoking my hart in like sort to ralent.

Ah wreatch that I were: if I re­lied my soule vpon such shattered reedes;

And would (as it were) for com­pany: post forward to hell.

Whereas holy examples are plen­tifull: of glorious Confessors, which fill the prisons.

It hath come to my minde, that I may be saued at the last: and re­pent vvhen Death knocks at the doore.

A foole, whosoeuer so ventureth eternall damnation: not knowing hovve soone he shall be cited to ap­peare.

Thy grace is not alwayes at com­maundement: and vncertayne is the valewe of constrayned repentance.

The tempter hath suggested that thou art mercifull: and wilt easily e­nough forgiue.

But thy mercy and clemency I haue already prooued: in expecting [Page 115]me to saluation;

In not striking me in midst of my sinnes: and taking me away in mine ignorance.

It is nowe time to thinke of thy judgementes: and hazard no more to prouoke thy wrath.

Who assurest vs that thou art a seuere Iudge: and comparest thy self to a soure Master.

The vvilie Serpent hath put in­to my head: that the secret of my conscience, I may to my selfe re­serue.

But thou commaundest not to dis­semble Religion: but precisely to stand vpon profession of a Catho­like.

He would make me beleeue that there is small diuersity: vvhereas their faith is blasphemy, or ours Ido­latry.

The Diuell therefore once chased from my soule: neuer more may be [Page 116]returne to his former habitation.

Hauing once set my hand to the plough: no more must I looke back, least I become vnfit for thy King­dome.

Being deliuered out of Sodome, I must no more minde it: but remem­ber the dreadfull example of Lots wife;

Whome thou turnedst into a pil­ler of falt: a perpetuall monument of an vnstedfast, and vnseasoned hart.

Saue me (O my Sauiour) from all such vnstablenesse: that during my life, I may prayse thee in thy house.

Make me to flourish like a bay: within precincts of thy Court.

Least I wither in my prime: and enter quicke into hell-gates.

Least my latter sinnes become more grieuous then the former: and my end worse then my beginning.

Nowe is the time of triall: nowe proouest thou my loyaltie.

Our state is a warrefare: and nowe is the houre of battaile.

If I streatch out my hande to a straunge sect: wilt thou not reuenge it vvith rigour?

If I betray thee: shall I remayne vnpunished?

Stand stedfast in justice, O my soule: depart not from the Taber­nacle and tents of thy God.

Then may I with confidence shew my face: and not be afraid at the ter­rible day.

I shall depart this life in a good hope: my bones shall rest in secu­rity.

Litle it is that I can suffer for thy sake, O bountifull King: and grea­ter scourges the wicked themselues sustayne.

My storme shall passe: and when I seeme consumed;

At euening shall brightnesse and felicity arise: as if the Sunne were at [Page 118]his highest.

Vnder the shadowe of thy winge I will shrowde my selfe: vntill the dayes of desolation be passed ouer.

Obseruing my profession & faith: my duety, purpose, promise, and allegeance vnto thee, O my God.