WEe are coming now to the seige of Munster, the principall City of Westphalia: save that something must be fur­ther fetched, even from the first beginning of those stirrs till their Authors punishment upon the taking of the City. Of Thomas [Page 2] The story is briefely thus: Mun­cer having lest the Preaching of the Gospell, fell to new Doctrine; inveighs not only against the Pope, but Luther also: At first he taught against Prophanesse, would have the body Curbd with fasting, and meane attire; was for a grave set face litle talke private meditation &c. Then we must aske of God a signe that he did love us, and chide him too, if he gave us none: That God revealed his will in dreames; that revelations with the Scripture must be our Rule, withall community of goods did best become us; and all to be of equall ranke. At last, ungodly Magistrates must be downe; in order whereto he gets 8000 men toge­ther, and exherts them to fightagainst their princes, by this time with an Army neere them, tells them they knew t'was not his fancy, but Gods Comm and that set them on this worke, And helpe from heaven should make them Conquerors: As for their Bullets he would receive them all in his owne Coate: And Loe, saith he, what a gra­cious God we have! Behold the taken of his everlasting favours Lift up your eyes and see the Raine-bow in the Heavens, which since we have its picture in our Colours, Showeth plainely God will be with us in the Battell to our enemies Raine. At the encounter Mun­cers Party is quick'y routed 5000 slaine in the field, 300 more in a Towne they ran too: Muncer was hid in a house by the Gate: Thither comes in a noble mans servant, to see the house: gets up the staires, finds one in bed, askes whether he be one of the Rebels. Mun­cer saith, no: But that he had beene sick a great while of a feaver. The Servant Spyes apurse Catch'd it with hope to have a Prize, Opening he findeth letters unto Muncer from the Earle of Mans­feild to for beare Rebellion: Then askes him whither they were sent to him or not: on his denyall, the servant threatneth to dispatch him: he prayes him to hold; and confesseth he is Muncer: Then on the Rack crying out for paine they bid him now remember how many silly soules his Villany had destroyed to day. He with a mighty Laugh­ter, sayes, Themselves desired it: Yet at the Point of death he publike­ly confessed his fault. But for Example sake his head cut off was fastened to a speare and Placed in the miale of the Camp. This was in Germany the yeare 1525. Muncer's his sedi­tion amongst the Rable, [Page 3]his doctrine and his end, our fift booke made report. By him was hatched that brood of men who for their Practise and opinion are called Anabaptists: of whom also something hath beene said allready. ‘For they for bid Baptizing litle ones, are rebaptized themselves, affirming, All men else should do the same, and cleer­ly Null the former Bapistme. They pretend unto an outward dresse of Holi­nesse, Teach Christians should not goe to Law, beare Civill office, make oath, maintaine propriety, but leave all things Common.’ They began with These; then, matters farre more beynous, as I shall shew anon. And whereas Germany was farre and neere infested with them. Yet, Luthers and most other learned mens oppositions to them, with the Ma­gistrates narrower eye upon them tooke so, that they could hardly Sowder into a Considerable Number. At last they fixed in the aforesaid City strongly fortified.

It fell out thus: hard by this Munster is St Maurice Church; There did one Ber­nard Rotman in the yeare of our Redemp­tion 1532, with great Concourse of the Citizens, preach the Gospell, and when they had some thoughts of getting him into the City, the Popish Priests, to pre­vent it, give him a pretty summe of mo­neyes to exercise himselfe some other where. He takes his leave, and having veiw'd some Places where he might im­prove his parts, a few moneths after comes back againe. They, angry at his returne, would faine have put him off from Preaching: But all in Vaine, the People being taken with him. Soone after he is entertained in the City by cer­taine of the Cheifest Citizens, and when the Church was shut against him, they make a Pulpit for him in the Porch with­out.

But the number of the Citizens and his hearers encreasing dayly. They require the Preists to set open the Church, or they would breake it up.

In the Nicke of this, He, by Advice of those the People chose theretoo, dispatcheth letters into Hassia, that was neere them of the Lantgraves Jurisdiction, to desire that some learned Godly men might bee sent unto him, there to sow the Gospell with him. Two hereupon are sent from Mar­purgh. Upon their comming six of them get together and consult of the quickest course to set the Popish Clergy packing, that the Gospell might succeed the bet­ter. The best expedient found hereto was this; They draw up the Popish Er­rors and digest them into some thirty heads: Those they deliver to the Or Common Councell that Ruled the City. Senate with this resolution, That if they ‘did not Prove by the word of God All those waged war therewith, they would submit to any punishment.’

The senate Calls the Preists into the Court, and propose the Errours whereof we spake. And because they ever bare in hand their doctrine to be pure, and groun­ded on the word of God, which the Prea­chers now deny, and offer to make good [Page 6]upon their lives, ‘They aske them, whe­ther they would confute by Scriptures, what should be objected?’ They, thus demanded, and perceiving that the Senate was in very earnest in the businesse, make a short Answer, ‘That they had just no­thing to defend their cause withall, but whereas hitherto they did pretend their way was right and good, twas from opi­nion and their Ignorance.’ The Senate then, since they convicted of their errors and false doctrine, could say nothing for themselves, but confesse their naugh­tinesse, command them henceforth not to medleany more with taching, but give way in all the Churches to these new Teachers that had unmasked their knavery. On this (the People too concurring with the Senate) the Churches were Assigned to them respectively where to teach.

THat Businesse bred ill bloud among the Preists, them especially of the Ca­thredrall Church, for the most part all of Noble Bloud. They, none other shift being left, depart in rage, applying to the Bishop of that City. Whereupon Coun­cell had, it was resolved to block up all the waies, that no provision might come to the City. A little after, the waies be­ing all and every where beset, the Bishop with those of whom I spake, to promote their worke the better, comes unto Tol­get, a little Towne some one mile distant from the City. Thence letters are dispatched unto the Senate to this pur­pose. ‘That they forbeare their Course, restore their former State, or to be ta­ken [Page 8]as Enemies.’ The Bishop was Earle Francis Waldec, next before him had beene Frederick, owne Brother to the Archbishop of Colen. But He, whether because he had not well his health there, or that he smelt out something, not long, be­fore of his owne accord had left the Place, and to live private, returned him home into his Countrey. They of Munster well pausing on the businesse, deteine the Messenger, and the night before Christs birthday about 900 Sallying forth un­looked for take both the little Towne and (making good the Gates that none might scape) All that were in it. The Bishop as fell out, was gone the day before. The prisoners were forthwith brought into the City. Amongst them were the eminentest of the Clergy, and some also of the Nobility; The Senate askes them, what their pleasure is, & if they meane to stop the Preaching of the Gos­pell. They freely Anlwer, Their endeavors should not be wanting to promote that doctrine. Hereon they strike the bargain. A Copy whereof the Senate sent the Lant-grave, with all beseeching for the Gospels sake and publike good to have his helping hand. He sendeth some of his [Page 9]owne to them: by whose Mediation t'was concluded, ‘that their hearts agreed, and distast removed, both sides should cherish peace: The Gospell to be prea­ched in six Churches, all superstitious and ungodly worship turn'd packing:’ in the Cathedrall Church, no alteration to be made, nor the City reckon that in any case belonging unto them. This forme of their agreement was signed by the Lantgrave, the Bishop and his Party, the Nobility and all the people, Feb. 14. the yeare of our redemption 1533.

THings thus appeased, there came to Munster a certaine Holland That is a mender of old Clothes. Botch­er, one John a-Leiden an eager Anabap­tist. He at the first insinuating into a [Page 10]familiar discourse with them; would use to aske the Preachers of the Gospell whither they thought, that Infants duly might be baptized, They saying, yea, He that was warped quite Crooked on the other side, begins to laugh & scorne there­at. Which taken notice of Bernard Rot­man (of whom before) exhorts the Peo­ple in his Sermon to pray that sound do­ctrine ‘might be preserved with them, and kept incorrupt from fanatique Persons, the Anabaptists especially, who at this time did Creepe amongst them, and get in peoples company, whose opi­nion should it prevaile woe, would it be, not only to the state of Common-wealth but also of Religion.’ Just then, almost, comes thither Herman Strapeda, who be­ing made Rotmans Colleague, publikely Inveighs against Poedobaptisme. His Ma­ster was one Henry Rolls, whom they of Ʋtrecht (before this time a little) had pu­nished for Anabaptisme. This fellow was indeed another step to this new kind of doctrine. And now the Businesse was of such a Pitch, that most of all the talke about the City was of Anabaptists; Though things were yet but closely Car­ryed. For none could be admitted but [Page 11]who were of their Sect. And then the Authors did not openly professe these things, nor teach them, but by night; and when others were asleepe then only were their holy exercises. But the businesse coming out, when very many of the Ci­tizens were enrag'd at it, crying out, ‘T'was base, an upstart Tenet should be scattered privily and by night,’ The Senate ordered, That the Authors should be gone the City. But they going forth return'd another way, Vapouring, That they had Command from God to stay, and There, in earnest to goe through with their businesse. This was a Trouble to the Senate and somewhat did amaze them, and therefore to prevent distur­bance and farther danger the Preachers both of the Gospell, and of Anabaptisme are commanded their appearance at the Court, and some learned men together with them. Then Rotman, which he had conceal'd till now, shewes himselfe; and condemneth Paedobaptisme as a wicked and accursed thing. But Herman Busch especially did so make good the other side before the Senate, That they were by Publike Order Commanded forthwith [Page 12]to depart the City. Yet when they Pleaded that they could not safely passe the Bishops Countrey, The Senate both procured them publike faith, and also gave provision for their Journey. But they who long before, resolved not to stirre a foot, step privily aside into their owne Associates, and lie close a while.

MEane time the Senate, e're they might againe appeare above board, shut all the Churches up, save onely one. For it was feared, least the Anabaptists, whose number dayly did encrease, should with their speakers Tumble out the Preachers of the Gospell from the Church. Then, in the moneth of No­vember the Lantgrave at entreaty of the Senate, sent them two Teachers, Theodo­rique Fabrice, and John Melsinger: And this, perceiving the disturbance, startled [Page 13]also at the danger, goes home againe. The other vigorously admonished the Citizens to keepe a jealous eye upon the Anabaptists Doctrine. After which rate he held untill the Anabaptists getting uppermost turned the others out of Towne, as you shall here anon, And that nothing might be wanting, he drawes up a forme of doctrine & Church-govern­ment, to the Content both of the Senate and the People. Then, with the Senates leave, Peter Wirtem begins to Teach againe. But a few Sermons hardly over, by Rot­mans Instigation, the Anabaptists cast him out. Who now growing feircer challenge Fabrice and others to a disputation. The Senate likeing it, it was thought meete to have the businesse managed from holy Scriptures and other writings suting with them: some honest learned men, as mode­rators, to be joyned; who upon due Cog­nizance of the opinions and Arguments of either side, should determine; what they determined, to be ratifyed: So as at last, dissentions laid aside, peace might be re­stored to the Church. But as for those Tearms, Rotman and his fellowes would none of them. When therefore they re­fused Publique Test, they began to fall [Page 14]into a Generall contempt. To wash off which staine they find another more com­pendious Course.

ONe of them, like a man inspired, runs through the City and cryes out, Repent and be baptized or else the wrath of God will overwhelme you. Here first be­gan the vulgar Tumults. And all that were baptized againe cryed out as he, and in his Posture. Many ensnared by their owne simplicity (men otherwise Honest) for that they feared the wrath of God, whereof these made such noyse, come in unto them, and others too, to save their stakes. For the truth is, the Anabaptists dealing coursly with their Adversaries did fairly turne them out of all. This was about Decembers end. And now againe these peepe out of their holes, of whom I spake before. Who with an outcry hurrying to the market place together, [Page 15] command all not bapts'zd to be put to death as Pagans and ungodly wretches. Then seiz'd they on the Magazine and Hall, laying violent hands on many. The others to defend themselves and theirs, make good another Certaine Place with­in the City, by nature fortifyed, surpri­zing very many of theirs. This skirmish against the Anabaptists that kept the Hall and fenced it round held, till on giving Mutuall Hostages, They came to Termes, where by it was provided, That every man should keepe his owne Reli­gion goe home and live at peace.

ROtman the while; and Bernard Cnip­perdoling the very fore-man of that Gangue) although they gave their good [Page 16]word unto this agreement, yet by their secret letters to the Neighbour Townes encouraged all them of their stamp, That bidding adeiu to whatsoever they had, they should Post-hast be with them there; looke what they left behind they should enjoy with Tenfold Interest. Such ample and magnificent promises set on their way to Munster both men and women in the greatest Number, with certaine expectation of enjoying greater matters; The poorer sort especially that had not to live at home. The Townes-men, cheifly those of faire Estates, perceiving how the City fild with strangers, with as much Covenience as they Could, withdrew themselves, lea­ving behind, the Anabaptists and the multitude. This was about Shrove, Tues­day in the moneth of February, 1534. When the other Party had beene weake­ned thus, The Anabaptists forme a new Senate, of their owne Creatures all; and Create (a) Consuls also, Like our Mayors; but they were too. Cnipperdo­ling for one. Within few dayes they set upon St Maurice Church in the suburbs and fire both it and all the building neare it. Then rob they all the Chnrches and tare downe the inside of the Cheifest. [Page 17]By and by they run on heapes through all the streets, and first they cry, Repent, but quickly after, depart from hence imme­diately ye wicked ones, except you meane to lay your lives at stake. Withall they are strait in Armes together, and whosoever were not of their sect, without more a­doe, they thrust them out of towne without respect to either sex or Age. So as indeed some women great with Child miscarried in this tumultuous and precipitant banishment. Immediatly they seize on their Estates they had turned out. And notwithstanding this befell the day before the Bishop did beseige the City, yet of the multitude that were faine to leave it, some falling into the Bishops hands, were reckoned enemies: others in danger of their lives, and among the rest, two Preachers of the Gospell. He of whom I spake before Peter Wir­tem being himselfe in danger, was saved by the Mediation of the Lantgrave. Others of the Townsmen that were good men, troubled at this to see that if they left the City they were forced to run on present danger abroad, upon compulsion in a manner and against their will, did stay behind.

ABout this time the fore-man of the Prophets (for thats the Title they do arrogate unto themselves) John Matthew gave command that whatsoever Gold, silver, Moveables any man enjoyed, on paine of death he should bring forth among them. And for this Use there was a publique house appointed. The people much amazed with the rigor of this Order, Obey'd. Nor was it safe for any man to fayle, or to defraud them of any part. For there were two Girles pos­ses'd with Spirits of Divination, that di­scovered whatsoever fraud had beene committed. Nor did they onely bring their owne Goods thus together, but theirs also whom they had turned out of Towne, they did convert to their owne use. This done, the selfe same Prophet did command that no man henceforth keepe any other booke about [Page 19]him but the holy Bible: all others must be brought forth and abolished. This was commanded, as he said, from heaven. And thereupon Books in great Number hea­p'd together were all consumed with fire. it happened that a smith about that time, one Hubert Truteling had broake some Jest upon the (selfe-named) Prophets, which being knowne they call the peo­ple and command the Souldiers to be present: Instantly they accuse the fellow, and sentence him to die. The people were exceedingly astonished at the busi­nesse: But the fore-prophet (whom I nam'd before) layes violent hands on the poore wretch, and with a speare stabd him lying flat on the ground: yet without Mortall wound, although he fell upon him with a mighty force. Then he Commands him to be carried to another Place; where snaching up a Gun, from a young man by him, with a Bullet shoots him through, lying all along. The fellow for all this not dying present­ly he tells them, that it was reveald from heaven unto him, that his time to dye was not yet come, and God had shewne him mercy. But a few dayes after the poore man ends his life. That being knowne [Page 20]the Prophet, all in hast, catcheth up a long-sized speare, and running madly through the City, Cryes out that God the Father had commanded him to beat off the enemy from the City. Approaching to the Campe a certaine Souldier that en­gaged him, ran him through. And though the error of his predictions was this other time discovered also, yet had his Comrade Prophets so befool'd the men and put so faire a dresse upon the businesse, to the vulgar, that he was much desired, and some Calamity presag'd impendent on them from the losse of such a Worthy personage. But John at Leiden next Prophet to him bad them take heart, t'was long agoe reveal'd to him that he should come to such an end. And for the wife he left, she should be his. Within two daies of Easter they run into the Churches and set all the Bells in every Place a ring­ing. Shortly after Cnipperdoling prophe­syeth, That those which were of the highest forme must be tumbled downe, and others from the ba [...]st bench and very dunghill be exalted. Then bids he them demolish all the Churches, protesting seriously that he had such command from God. They all are at his beck, and with their utmost [Page 21]diligence put in execution the Command (he cals) from heaven. At the selfe same time almost Iohn at Leiden gives the sword to Cnipperdoling and makes him Hang­man for such was Gods pleasure that He, before who bare the greatest office and was Confull, now take the meanest, and be Hangman. He, far from unwilling, with thanks accepts the office put upon him.

WHen now the Bishop for some Moneths had beene himselfe at all the Charge of war against them, Herman Archbishop of Colen, and John Prince of Clev [...] sent ayd of money, armes, and some troopes of horse and foote. The Archbishop of Colen goes also to the Campe himselfe to give advice. And not long after they assault the City in certaine Places. But when no hopes [Page 22]remained of taking it by storme, they built seven fortresses to stop all Pas­sage, and Place some Colours of foote, and troops of horse in every of them for winter quarters. And to the end the siege and warre might be carryed on, which equally concern'd them all, the Bishop of Munster craves ayde of all the Princes and the Cities in the Province of Rhene, as being next unto him. For this, there was a meeting called at Con­fluence, about the 13th of December 1534. For Germany in the whole hath six divisions, Franconia, Bononia, Suevia, Saxony, the tract of Rhene, and Burgundy. Within these limits of auncient course were reckoned all the Princes and the Cities one or other at Imperiall dyets. At this day is division of the upper and the lower Saxony, then also is there lower Germany, Westphalia and Austria, so that at present tenne Countries doe make up the Empire.

AFter the fruitles storme John a-Leiden takes him to his rest, and falls a drea­ming three whole dayes space together. When he awakes, speaks not a word, but makes signes for paper, and therein Assignes twelve men (some well descen­ded in the Number) to be over all affaires, and as in Israell, steere the whole. For this He tells them is the heavenly Fathers pleasure. And now, when by the twelve a stirrup thus was made him to the King­dome, he falls proposing certaine Tenets to the Preachers, and requires their con­futation of them by the Scriptures: where if they fayld, he would referre them to the People for their approbation, and establishment. Of those, this was the [Page 24]Creame, That men were not obliged to one onely wife, but if they pleased might marry many: which when their Teachers did oppose, He calls them with the Twelve unto the hall. At their appea­rance there, he puts off his Cloake and threw it with a new Testament on the ground; by those as signes he sweares, The Doctrine he had broached, was revea­led from heaven to him, & therefore sharply threatens them, with the frownes of God upon them, if they do not bid it welcome.

At last they jumpe, and it was a full three daies worke for the Preachers Sermons to talke of Marriage. He quickly gets him three wives, one, the great Prophets John Mathew, of whom I speake before. This leading case others were not long behind So as t'was reckoned for a credit to be often married. But now some Citizens that could by no meanes brooke this trade, by a token given through the City get all that loved the Gospell to a meeting at the Hall. Then they lay hold upon the Prophet. Cnipperdoling, and all the Teachers. The Rable at first notice of it run to Armes, rescue the Prisoners, and with cruell tor­ments slew some fifty: for tying some [Page 25]to Trees and stakes they shot them through: The ring-leading Prophet making acclamation, That he that would do God good service should discharge upon them first. Others had other ends.

ABout the 24 fourth of Juneup starts a new Prophet by trade a Goldsmith. He having cal'd the People to the Hall, declare it as the will and pleasure of the heavenly father, that John a-Leiden should be Lord of all the world, and that he mar­ching forthwith a mighty Army should destroy all Kings and Princes, one or other, shewing mercy to the People only, that is, to those that do love righteousnesse: and that he should possesse the seat of his father David, untill the Father do require the Kingdome of him, for the ungodly troden under foote, the Saints must raigne, even in this [Page 26]life. This spoken openly, John a-Leiden instāt­ly faling on his knees and lifting up his hands to heaven cries out, Men and bre­thren, I have beene no stranger to this businesse, for these many daies, and yet I had no mind to publish it, but now, to put it out of doubt, the Father hath made use of another Messenger. Thus being then made King he forthwith Nulls the Twelve, and as the Regall mode is, Creates him Nobles, Commands two Crownes, a Scabbard, Chaine, & Scepter with other such like Badges of state to be provided for him of the purest Gold. Then he appointed certaine daies of hearing in all causes that required his Cognizance. As often as he came in Publique he was attended with his offi­cers and nobles of his Court. Next to him followed too young men mounted. He on the right with a Crowne and Bible, the other with a naked sword. In like state was his Principall wife attended, for he had many at that time: In the hall there was erected a lofty throne of state, covered with Cloth of Gold. The Complaints and suits before him, for the most part were of marrying or divorcing, a thing now thredbare with them. Insomuch that [Page 27]some who many yeares had lived toge­ther were now first put asunder. But on a time the People standing very thick and crowded in the hall to heare, Loe, Cnipperdoling leapeth up and Scrabling by all foure on the Crowd, he wanders to and fro upon their Tops, and gaping wide mouthed on them, saith to them se­verally, The Father hath Sanctified thee, receive the Holy Ghost. Another day leading a dance before the King, quoth he, thus my litle whore and I sometimes are want to do: But now the Father bad me do the same before the King. And when he never would have done, the King went forth offended at him. Then he mounts up the throne and Playes Rex himselfe. But the King the while returning puls downe my man and claps him three dayes up in prison.

THe siege continuing they write a booke&publish it, their Title is The Re­stitution. Herein, with other stuffe, they broach: That Christs kingdome shall be such before the last day of Judgment, that all the ungodly every where extinct, the Godly and the Elect shall raigne. They tell us also, that the people may turne off their Magistrates, and though the Apostles were not commanded to take the Civill power into their hands, yet the pre­sent Ministers of the Church ought to clayme title to the Sword, and to enforce a new forme of Government. Moreover, that none but true Christians might be suffered in the Church, and that none could be saved except they would relinquish all propriety in the Estate they had, and make it common. For Luther and the Pope of Rome they were both false Prophets, yet Luther was the worser of the twaine. And as to unbe­lievers [Page 29]Marriage, tis polluted and impure, nor to be reckoned (say they) than for whoredome and adultery. Those their opinions were oppugned chiefely by Melancthon, Justus, Menius, and Ʋrbanus Rhegius whose writings upon this Subject are ex­tant very cleere and full.

A few weekes after the new-sprung Prophet Spoken of before, by Sound of Trumpet throughout all the Streets proclaimes that all should make appea­rance in their Armes at the Cathedrall-Porch, because the enemy must be sent pack­ing from the Citie. At their coming thither they find a supper ready. Being bad about 4000 sit downe unto it: after, they sup that were the while upon the guard about 1000. The King and Queene with their houshold Servants wait. Having eaten and supper almost ended, the King himselfe reaching bread to every one saith, Take eat shew forth the [Page 30]death of the Lord: The Queene holding out the cup saith, Drink, and shew forth the death of the Lord. This done the fore­said Prophet steps up into a pulpit, askes them whether they would obey the word of God: All saying, yea, quoth he, It is the fathers command that Teachers of the word should be sent forth, about eight and twenty, who going into the foure quarters of the world may preach the doctrine famous in this City. Then names he them, directs the way that every one should take. Six were dispatched to Osenbruge, as many unto Warendorse, eight unto Susat, the like number unto Cosfield. Afterwards the King and Queene sit downe to supper with their other servants, and those appointed for the progresse. At supper the king starts up: sayes, that he hath a litle businesse the father hath commanded. It chanced there was a certaine Souldier taken him, as another Judas, the King accused of treason and himselfe beheads him. This done he returned to supper, and merily brags of that his brave exploit. Having sup'd the foresaid 28 are sent away, within night a litle, and besides provisions for [Page 31]their journy every man hath his peece of Gold which in the places where their doctrine is refused they are bid to leave behind them, as a token of their future destruction and eternall ruine, for con­tempt of peace, and such a saving doctrine.

WHen they departing came into their severall places, with a loud out cry through the streets. That men repent, or looke for suddaine ruine: They spread their garments on the ground be­fore the magistrate, and threw the Gol­den peeces that they had receiv'd thereon, assuring them that the father sent them to offer peace unto them, which if they would imbrace, they must make common what they had, but if they did refuse, then hereby, as an earnest, they did protest against this wickednesse of theirs and ingratitude. For now the time is come whereof all the [Page 32]Prophets spake, when through all the world God will have righteousnesse be embraced. And when the King in doing of this dutie shall bring the businesse unto such a passe that righ­teousnesse raigne in every place, then shall it be that Christ deliver up the Kingdome to his father. Talking at this rate they are laid hold off, and freindly first, then on the rack examin'd of their faith and life, and of the Cities Strength. They answer, that only they themselves held the true Doctrine and they would beare witnesse to it at the perill of their lives. For from the very Apostles time neither had the word of God beene truly taught, nor any righte­ousnesse set a foot. There are in all foure Prophets, and no more, two righteous ones, David and John a-Leiden, two wicked, the Pope and Luther, and this the worser of the twaine. Being asked why against their promise given they banished honest men the City, seizing on their goods and wives; and Children, and by what place of Scripture could they prove and maintaine that righteousnesse of theirs. They say, this is the time Christ spake of, that the meeke should inherit the earth, and in this manner heretofore God gave the Egyptians goods unto the Isralites. Speaking after­wards [Page 33]of the forces and provisions of the citie, they confesse, most men have above five wives and that they looked for forces out of Friezland and from Holland, as soone as ere they come, the King will march forth with all his Army and subdue the world unto himselfes putting to death the Kings for not administring Justice. Having beene examined, when they would bide by what they were, nor acknowledge any Magistrate besides their King, Death was their doome, yet one of them esca­ped.

BY this, the City was so close begirt that there was no way of getting out for any: the Citizens therefore fearing famine and troubled at the danger they [Page 34]were in, had thoughts to apprehend the King and deliver him bound unto the Bishop. The King, that by some tokens Smelt the businesse out, makes choice of twelve out of all the heap, that he judged most faithfull, and calls them Dukes, assig­ning unto every of them some part of the City to defend: and also yeomen of the Guard to prevent commotions. Then did he promise all the people that at Easter they should be quit both of Siege and want together. But for the Dukes he chose, far greater matters are assured to them: they shall be Lords and Ma­sters (as he tells them) yea and particu­larly layes out, what Province, Castles, and Mannors each should have. None but the Lantgrave should be spared, he said; because he hoped at last he would strike in with him.

ABove we told you of a meeting called at Confluence in the month December, of those states that were with­in the Province of Rhene, with them associated of his owne accord John Fre­derick Prince Elector of Saxony. The businesse duly weighed in that assembly, speedy aydes are ordered to the Bishop, of horse three-hundred, and three thou­sand foot for six months space. Over these forces and the whole warre Wirich Earle of Oberstene is made Generall. 'Tis ordered also that all other states within the Empire shall be sollicited for assi­stance. And because Caesar was in Spaine that King Ferdinand be desired against Aprill next for this to call a Dyet. Then sent they letters sharply to admonish the besieged to leave off their course, which is so both dishonest and ungodly as nothing more: except they yeild and submit them to their [Page 36]lawfull Magistrate, they tell them plainly that the whole Empire will not be wanting to assist the Bishop. This was about Decembers end. They answere the 13th day of January 1535. with words enough, but litle to the purpose. Yet so as too commend and justifie their under­takement, but as to what had beene ob­jected about the King they coyned, they are quite dumb to that.

BUt in their private letters to the Lantgrave they would faine excuse themselves, talking much about the ruine and destruction of all the wicked, about the liberty and dominion of the godly in this life, and herewith send him the booke of Re­stitution, that I spake of. They admonish him also to repent and not like other Prin­ces, wicked men, wage warre against [Page 37]them harmlesse soules, and Gods people. The Lantgrave having read the Letter and the booke notes what he did dislike therein, and orders some of his to answer. And since they very briefely but somewhat blindly wrote, their king was not so much of theirs, as of Gods appointment. He askes them why they did not shew those Scriptures whence they thought this course was lawfull, and why they had not first confirmed it by signes and wonders. For of Christs coming God by all his Prophets long before foretold so evidently that not only of what tribe or stock, but also when and where he should be borne was cleerely mani­fest. Twas also their desire to have a hea­ring of their cause. Hereto the Lant­grave answeres. Now there was no roome for that since they had usurped authority and were the Authors of so much mischiefe. For all men see whereat they ayme, even to the overthrowing lawes and common-wealths. And as their course is palpably wicked and villanous, so also the desire of having cogni­zance taken of their Cause is faigned and counterfeit. That for his part he had sent them faithfull ministers of the Church, by whom he is sure, they have beene well instru­cted. But whereas by their nasty doctrine [Page 38]they revolt from their Magistrate, Seize on other mens estates, take many wives, chuse a new King, deny Christ to have taken humane nature of the Virgin Mary, assert free will, force men to make all common, deny forgivenesse to a lapsed sinner. These all are both against the lawes of God and men. This answer brought them, they fall againe to scribling, and send withall a booke composed in the vulgar speech, Of Scripture Mysteries. In their Epistle, they put new trimming on their cause, and reinforce their principles: but in the booke we speake of they divide the whole worlds age, from first to last into three periods, & the first (they tell us) from Adam unto Noah perished by a floud, the other wherein we are shall by fire, the third shall be new all over, wherein reigneth righte­ousnesse. But before this last appeare, the present must be changed with fire. Yet that's not like to be till Antichrist be revealed, and his power quite subdued. Then shall it be that the decayed throne of David shall be erected, and Christ obtaine his King­dome in the earth, and all the writings of the Prophets he fulfilled. For the present world is as the age of Esau, for both herein is justice silenced, and the godly are afflicted. But [Page 39]as from Babylons captivity, so also now from so great miseries the time of deliverance and restoring is at hand: and the wicked­nesse of the wicked shall be abundantly re­compenced to them, as is signified in the Revelation. But this restoring shall precede the world to come, that all ungodly men trod under foot, a seat and habitation may be prepared for righteousnesse. The Lantgrave having received their booke commends it to some Ministers of the Church with him to draw up the confuta­tion of it.

THe decree that was made at Conflu­ence some few cities that were present utterly disliked, and say they will send no­tice home against it. After, all the other cities of the Empire meete at Esling: and there they come to this Conclusion, that they who met before at Confluence had not to do to impose any charge on them: for that therein there ought to be the Authority [Page 40] and Consent of Caesar and all the states. Therefore they reject that Order made, and promise mutuall helpe in case that any danger be incur'd in that regard by any of them. But whatsoever shall be duly resolved upon for publique good in publique Diets of the Empire, therein they give assurance they will do their duty.

BUt now provisions growing so scarce and deare throughout the citie in the moneth of February, that there was no hopes but some must needs be hunger-starved: one of the Queenes commisera­ting the peoples case did chance to say unto the others, that she did not think it was the will of God, to have the people thus consumed with famine. The King, [Page 41]whose Larder was well fraught not only for necessity but even to luxury, hearing hereof brings her and all the other with her to the Hall. Where having bade her fall upon her knees, he takes off her head, and being dead, brands her for a whore. Upon this deed, the other chaunt his praise and thanke the heavenly father. The king then leades a round, and perswades the people that had nothing left but bread and salt to dance and to be merry. But when Easter came and no deliverance did appeare: The King that had beene Lavish of his promise, to salve the businesse feignes himselfe sick for six dayes space, at last comes forth into the Hall, and tells them, He had sate upon a blinde Asse, and that the father had laid the sins of all the people on his back, and there­fore they were cleane all over, nor needed any other expiation. This was that deliverance which he promised, wherewith they ought to be content.

LƲther, amongst other things he put forth at this time in the country Language, Alas! quoth he, what or how shall I complaine and bemoane those wretched creatures? In truth the thing it selfe doth say that Devils dwell in heapes among them. But for our parts we have all reason in the world highly to advance Gods bottomlesse mercy. For notwithstanding for contem­ning of the Gospell, and reproaching of the name of God, and powring forth the blood of godly men, Germany deser­veth sore affliction at the hands of God: yet has he curbed hitherto Sathans rage and fu­ry, and doth not lay the reine upon his neck to let him rant it at his pleasure with us; but is a gentle Monitor, and by this Munster tragedy (far from a cunning peece) calls us to amendment. For should not God bridle and check him in, I make no question but that most subtill spirit, and such a master of his craft would have managed matters at a far other rate. But now since God hath [Page 43]maimed him sorely, he stormes and rageth, not how himselfe desireth, and would have it, but as the rope is given him. For that wicked spirit which endeavors to subvert the Christian faith, takes not this course to in­troduce polygamy, because, since all men see the cursed basenesse of the thing, he knows it well enough, they will abhor it. Policy indeed and civill government may be this way disturbed, but Christs kingdome must with other tooles and engines be assaulted. He that will neatly toll a man into deceit and snares, must not put strait for a king­dome, or dominion, and play the Tyrant. For all men do condemne that course and see his aymes. But by some hidden meanes as foot-paths come unto it. To weare a rusty garbe thats out of fashion, to set ones face to gravity, to hang downe the head, to fast, to touch no money, to eat no flesh, to abhorre marriage, to reckon civill office or Magistracy as prophane, to refuse au­thority, to professe a singular humility of mind: here lyes the way, and Method to en­trap a wise man by, and that doth by disguise, and in the darke set ope the dore to Sove­raignty. But by a face of brasse to claime a kingdome, to take as many wives as his lust inclines him to, this is not the subtilty of an [Page 44]artificiall Divell, but some one newly at the trade. Or if he be the Master of his Craft, for certaine then God hath so tyed his hands that he cannot play his game more cunningly. The end whereof no doubt is that we might feare his Majestie, and be stirred up to repentance before he loose that beaten Souldier which surely will assault us much more to our damage. For if a young Gramarian Divell can make such stirs, what will they be, when he comes full sayle against us as an higher graduat, I meane as Lawyer or Divine? Such a rude Divell therefore neede not much affright us. ‘ And I also thinke this trifling stage-play likes not all those in the city, but very many have sad harts about it who not without sighes and teares waite for Gods deliverance: as some yeares since it proved in the insurrection of the country men. And would to God there was no craftier Divell in the world than this of Munster. Let God but spare his word among us, in truth I am perswaded that scarce a man would heede such a homely senselesse sir. Although indeed when the wrath of God is kindled, there is no errour so absurd and gracelesse but Sathan can per­swade it, as we see befell in the doctrine for­ged by This fellow was an Arabian, of the poste­rity of I [...]h­mael, borne meanly a out the year of Christ 597, his fa­ther was a Pagan, his mother a Jew, him­selfe of no religi­on. In his youth he served a Merchant and kept his camels. His master dy­ing; by the help of Ma­gick he married his Mistris, left very rich. Being a crafty fol­low and am­bitious, yet no schollar he makes himselfe a prophet, pretends revelations, goes up and downe amongst his country men awretched people, never under any good government, but either lived at home by robbery, or else were soulders of fortune abroad and setting his fancies to their lioeptious humours gets many followers. In fits of the falling sick­nesse, frequent with him, he made believe the Angell Gabriel conversed with him, which his flesh not able to beare fainted un­der. Another of his taking cheats was that a dove being taught to feich corne at his eare passed currant for the holy ghost revea­ling mysteries to him. Thus getting famous, the Saracens his countrimen who fought under Heraclius the Emperor being denyed their pay and cal'd dogs for asking it, revolt, o're whom with litle difficulty Mahomet is made generall about the yeare 620. Then to make sure, by the helpe of some beretiques and Jewes, he compiles a forme of Doctrine, called the Alcoran, which is the peoples Bible and sweares the Angell Gabriel carried him to heaven and there he learnt it. Some other things be taught them. In truth his doctrine is a very monster patched up with scraps of Christianity, Judaisme and Paganisme cramb'd with non-sense fables and selfe contradictions. For a tast of all. That Christ was a great Prophet (not God) but Mahomet greater. The Jewes did not crucify him, but one like him. Children must be circumcised. Ofterings made in the Temple at Mecca. Turne thitherwardin all their prayers. God in Sinay (as in one place, but elsewhere tis in Hierusalem) gave 1515 precepts. Noah desired God to drowne the world for the Idols of Huden Scbuon Jaguta Jannea Naccu Tis lawfull to have foure wives and as many Concubines as one please. The Angel Gabriel flying his wing chanced to touch the Moone and darkned it. The day of Judgment Continues 50000 years. After it Death shall be turned into a ram. Para­dise consist in sensuall pleasures, faire women &c. Hundreds more as bad [Magdeb. Cent. 7. c. 15. See Alcoran in English.] yet are the Turks by far the vastest Empire in the worll, bewitched with this Vanity at this very day. Whether Muncer, Leiden and too many of the present time with us came not out of Mathomets shop I referre to the Readers owne Resolution. Mahomet.’ For though [Page]there be not one drame of braines in any rag [Page] ‘ thereof or the whole peace together: Yet the light of Scripture being out, it spread so far, and grew to such a pitch as now we see it.’ Which, had not Muncers counsels and endeavors beene crushed by God, would have beene the same in Germany. For the least sparke ‘that is when God gives leave, Sathan can blow into a mighty flame.’ Nor is there any better way to quench this fire than by the word of God. For whereas ‘the enemy weareth not corporall armes he cannot be conquered by either troops of horse or any other warlike engines.’ But our Princes and our Bishops goe another way to worke. ‘They hinder the Gospels teaching, whereby alone the minds and hearts of men are healed; and try the while to save by punishments the body from the Divell, but the better part of man his very heart and soule they let him take. They speed herein just as the Jewes that would extinguish Christ by crosse and punishment.’

‘But now as to the things that are spoke abroad, and written of the men of Munster. I take them to be very truthes.’ And I am confirmed herein by their owne writing lately published. [Page 47] ‘wherein their madnesse is neatly pain­ted by themselves. For first in matters of faith, they teach very fowle absurdities. And of Christ, as if he were not fowen Of Mary (as they phrase it) although they do confesse that he came of the seed of David. But they do not fully let us know their mind herein.’ The Devill hatcheth (sure enough) some mon­ster under it. Tis true this is not darkly hinted by him, That the seed or flesh of Mary cannot save us. But the attempt ‘is fruitlesse, for Scripture speakes it, that Christ was borne of the Virgin Ma­ry, which phrase all languages do referre to a young one that, conceived and for­med of the mothers flesh and blood, is brought to light.’

‘Then for their censure on former bap­tisme as prophane: that also is their ig­norance. For they do not reckon it as an ordinance of God, but as a worke of man.’ But if that ought to be condem­ned wholy, and throwne out of doores ‘whatsoever wicked men do give or have’, I wonder truly why they do not abhorre the Gold and silver and other riches

And truly this we speake is both too much, ‘and seemes not very necessary, specially since others fully have dispatched the same already.’

IN the Diet of the empire, which king Ferdinand at the intreaty of the Prin­ces did by his Am­bassadors or Messen­gers. Legates appoint at Wormes in the month of Aprill, the Cities, which had hitherto parted with no monies, at their first entrance do protest that their appearance there was not for the order made at Confluence but in obedience unto Caesar and King Ferdinand. Then fell they to great dashing with them about the contributi­on with the Princes. At last they did [Page]conclude of ayde for five Months space, at the rate of 20000 Crownes the month: also that the Citie being got by storme or otherwise there should be mercy shew­ed to the harmelesse Multitude: & that the honest, who either were besieged or had wandered to some other place should have their goods restored to them. Upon this order the Bishop of Munster gives up the Armie to Oberstene. But whereas publique monies were very slow­ly, and almost too late dispatched unto them, nothing worthy notice could be at­cheived; yea the Captaines more than once were in danger of their lives by the Souldiers mutiny for want of pay.

NOw when within the city things were in such a plight that many daily perished with the famine: many also got away to other places, who came forth, so nothing else but very skin and bone, that it commanded pitty from the enemy to them: the commanders give the Townes-men notice if they would deliver but the King & some few others with him, themselves should suffer nothing. The Citizens, though it were their earnest longing, yet frighted by the vigilancy, and severity of the King durst not ven­ture. For so obstinate was the King that whilst he lived as himselfe (but with fewothers) openly declared he would never yeeld. The Commanders therefore upon this writing back forbid the sending forth of any more, so much as women and Children. This was the first day of [Page 52]June. Next day they answere, complai­ning that they could not have a lawfull hearing, and that they were ill dealt with, far beside their merit, in the soarest manner: that if any would discover their errour to them, they should be ready to their duty. Then they unfold a place of Daniel about the fourth beast, which was by far the cruellest of them all. The close of the letter was by Gods blessing they would abide by this confession of the truth. But all this was thus written by the Kings appointment.

BUt now when things within the Ci­tie were brought unto the lowest ebbe, out ran two of them. One taken by the Souldiers, the other, upon paroll [Page 53]comes to the Bishop, and both tell the way to take the City. Oberstene and the Bishop having heard the revolters talke, and the businesse duly weighed, on June the 22 by parle advise the townes­men to yeeld themselves, and save the starving multitude. They in the pre­sence of the King, answer by Rotman: yet so as to hold on their course. Two dayes after about eleven a clock by night the forces drew downe silently to the Citie, and by the industry of one of those revolted, the forlorn having slaine the centiness, get thorow the trench into the bulwark: others at their heeles find a wicket open, and about five hundred with some captaines and their collours threst through into the City. There then the townesmen in a body made others halt that were breaking in at last with much a­doe repulse them, and clapping fast the gate fall on those gat in allready, put­ting many to the sword. And when a sharpe dispute held thus for two houres space, the Souldiers thus shut in teare up by strength of hand the gate next to them, where the guard was weake, and cleere an entrance for their fellowes, who instantly rush in with a mighty Ocean. [Page 54]And when at first the townesmen stood their ground, and had made good the Hall; the case appearing desperate, and many slaine; they, at the first assault cry quarter and obtaine it.

Here now the King and Cnipper doling both are taken prisoners. Rotman past hopes of escaping, that he might not fall into their hands alive, Char­geth the enemies body and is ran through. The city being taken, halfe the plunder and the Armes the Bishop taketh to himselfe. Then the Army is disbanded: two Collours only kept to be his guard.

THere followes upon this another Diet of the Empire at Wormes about the 15 day of July. Therein King Fer­dinand by his Legates doth propose and aske whether, the Citie being now possessed, course should be farther taken for the utter rooting out of the Anabaptists. Adviseth also, that the Princes move the Pope about the Counsell. They answere, what course to take with Anabaptists is provided for allready by certaine Edicts. For a counsell the Pope hath more than once beene solicited thereunto by Caesar: nor would they make, they said, any further pro­gresse in it. At the same meeting the Bishop of Munster desireth that his charge and dammage might be repaired; and complaineth that the monies promi­sed were not yet come in. When no pro­ceedings farther could be had, and few Estates were present, another meeting was appointed about the first day of November, when there should be hea­ring had of the accounts and charges of the warre: and resolved upon what forme of government for the time to come at [Page 56] Munster should be established. When that day came, the Legate of King Fer­dinand reports the causes of the calling this Assembly, namely among other things, that it might be also thought on how the Citie lately taken might be hence­forth setled in its old Religion. Then the Bishops legate shewes them how great expences he was at throughout the war, how deepely he was run in debt, how, though the Citie now were taken, yet to prevent disturbance and all danger he was enforced to raise two Cittadels in the City and to garison them: Upon all which he desireth consideration may be taken. T'was answered: that the Bishop was pos­sessed allready of both the greater part of the spoiles and all the Armes, yea, and the Citizens goods, all which indeede belong unto the Empire: that it was meet to have the things, being prized, compared with the charge, what more was wanting care should be had thereof. After twas resolved that the Bishop of Munster, as heretofore, should be subject to the Empiretall the Nobi­lity he restored, and the Citizens also, so they were not Anabaptists, that were wandered unto other places: for re­ligion, that the Bishop follow the decrees [Page 57]of the Empire, in the beginning of the spring, next yeare that the Legates of the Princes go to Munster, take Cognizance of the Citizens conditions, save the innocent, demolish all the forts raised by the Ana­baptists, and that the Bishop also pull downe the Cittadels raised by himselfe within the Citie. For the King and Cnipperdoling and Cretchting, that were prisoners, let him punish them without longer stay at the first opportunity ac­cording to their demerits. As to that we told you was resolved on about re­ligion, the Princes of Saxony, the Lant­grave of VVirtemberg, and Anhalt publi­quely protested their dissent the same professed the Cities also: and they would not have the ancient fortifications of the City to be demolished, for the new they were content.

THe King and his two fellow prisoners were carried up and downe unto the Princes to be looked, and laughed at; Through this occasion the Lantgraves Preachers get a conference with the king; and the list is entred specially on these Ar­ticles: Of the Kingdome of Christ. The Magistrate, Justification, Baptisme, the sup­per of the Lord, the incarnation of Christ, and marriage. Wherein they went so farre by proofe of Scripture that the man, for all his wrastling to make good his ground, was, though not fully turn'd, yet bent and weakned so that at the last he almost granted all. Which yet 'tis thought he did in hopes to save his life. For when they came the second time unto him he [Page 59]promised, if he might be spared, that he would make the Anabaptists growne so numerous in Holland, Brabant, England, Friezland, all to be still and submit in all things to the Magistrate. The same men then enter disputation with his fellowes, both by word and writing, Of Mortification, Paedobaptisme, Community of goods, and the kingdome of Christ.

WHen they were brought to Talget, the King being as­ked by the Bishop, by what authority he durst to arrogate such licence on his City and his people? Askes him againe, and who gave him the Rule and Govern­ment there? when the Bishop answe­red that he had it by consent of the [Page 60]Colledge and the people: he replyes God called him thither. Then on the 19 day of January they are brought back to Munster and put in severall prisons. The same day also thither came the Bishop, and with him the Le­gates of the Archbishop of Colen and Prince of Cleve. The two dayes fol­lowing were spent in godly admo­nition to reclaime them from their errour, and the king indeed con­fessed his sin, and praying, made his application unto Christ for Succour. But the other two neither did acknowledge any fault, and stiflly stood upon their vindication. Next day the King brought forth upon a scaffold is bound unto a stake. Two Executioners are standing by him, and tongs burning hot. At the three first pinches he spake not a word: but afterwards continually im­ploring God for mercy, when he had beene torne this fashion for an houre or more, by a sword at last thrust through his heart, gave up the Ghost. His fellowes fared a­like. Being dead, they are all made [Page 61]fast in severall Iron cages, and hung upon the highest tower of the City. The King indeede betwixt them both, and about the stature of a man above them.