HOw deplorable a case the truly Reformed Protestant Religion now is in, partly from the power and prevalency of Pope­ry, Arminianism, Socinianism, Quakerism (an Hotch-potch of all the rest) and many other dangerous Errors and Su­perstitions; partly by reason of the Death of great numbers of the most Learned, Pious, Zealous, Faithful and Painful Ministers in these Kingdomes; partly from the want of a due care to provide such as may succeed them in after-Ages, by such a liberal Education of the Youth of the present Age, as might fit them for that Service; and lastly, by the general and universal Prophaneness that every where spreads it self among us: I say, how deplorable a case the said truly Reformed Protestant Religion is now in, by the means aforesaid, and some others that might be added, would fill up a huge Volumn to declare: a Work which I shall not here undertake; but shall rather apply my self humbly to pro­pound such wayes and means, as by the Blessing of God may revive and restore the said Protestant Religion out of that deplorable state in which it seems now to lie bleeding, as it were, to death, and in some places almost ready to give up the Ghost.

But among many Proposals which I had prepared, and intended to have offered, I have singled out only these three, viz.

First, That an hearty Ʋnion, at least, in Love and Affection, between all Dissenting Parties in matters of Church-Government, that are other­wise sound and orthodox in the Doctrinals and holy Practicks of the right Reformed Protestant Religion, be heartily endeavoured.

Now this will be found principally among four sorts of Protestant-Professors in England; the Episcopal, Presbyterian, Congregational, and such of the moderate and sober-minded Anabaptists (so called) as differ only in the point of Infant-Baptism. I name the Episcopal-Protestant-Professor with the other three, because I know some of them to be men of eminent Learning and Piety, and in all the main Points of Protestan­tism very sound. Thousands (I doubt not) both Ministers and People [Page 2] of the Church of England (so called) are of the same Judgment and Practice with our famously Holy and Learned Bishop Ʋsher, published in his excellent Book, entituled, The Sum and Substance of Christian-Re­ligion. And why should not both Presbyterians, Catapaedobaptists and Congregational men (so I had rather style them, than by the odious Name of Independents) have as real and hearty good will to these as to any other? Was not the Blood of Christ shed for them? Was not Heaven founded as much for them as for any? For such of them, I mean, as are under the same Spirit of True Faith and Repentance, which the Gospel requires in all that shall be saved. As for joyning with them in Matters of Worship, where Conscience is not satisfied, I by no means perswade any to it; I cannot do it my self: yet I truly love many that do, because I am bound in Charity to think they follow their Light, whilst I see them otherwise walking in an uniform Tenour of Holiness, both within doors and without, throughout the whole course of their Lives.

The other three, namely, the Presbyterian, Antipedobaptists and Congregational, if they do but keep close to their own declared Judg­ments on each side, that is, That none be admitted into their Churches, that in a true Gospel-sence are ignorant and scandalous (for by that, those that discern not the Lord's Body, are ignorant, and those that live not holily, are scandalous) I see no reason but (salvis utrinque principiis) they may allow each others to be the true Churches of Christ. Both sides prove their Ministry to be from Christ, and to have the Essentials of an Institution in it; one Party making the Formality of his External Call to consist in the Election of the People only, with a solemn Dedi­cation to their Work by Fasting and Prayer; the other Party granting this to be requisite, but withal requiring the addition of Hands impo­sed by a Presbytery; which by the former is not esteemed necessary. And then for Synods; both Parties approve of them as useful and needful for mutual and common Advice, though they differ in the Point of Juris­diction, and the proper seat and extent of it.

Now why may not a Brotherly Amity well consist with these Diffe­rences, since on neither side any essential thing is wanting to render them true Ministers and Churches of Christ; and such as for the most part do otherwise agree in all matters of Doctrine and Practice? Nay, why may they not so far mutually agree, as to walk together in holy Fellowship one Church with another, as occasions serve, the Members of one Church communicating with the Members of the other? How sad is it, that where the way for a closure lies so fair and easie, good men [Page 3] should stand at so great a distance, for so long a time, each from other? What bitterness, what angry reflections, what unbrotherly exasperations are still found between these differing Parties? Whence comes it? Is it not from the Devil, the great Author and Fomenter of all Divisions? When shall the Spirit of Meekness, Plain-heartedness and True Christian Love put an end to these Wranglings? When shall it once be? Why should any, on one side or the other, remain under their own Passions, Prejudices and inflexible Morosities? Is there not great cause to suspect that Carnal Policy, Self-opiniativeness, Pride of Heart, or something worse, lies at the bottom? Is it possible, that where Sincerity, Humi­lity, and such a Gracious Disposition as alwayes is accompanied more or less, with the Sweet Spirit of Christ, should dwell long in any that are true Members of him? Who can be said truly to have learned of him, that are not like him in the Grace of Meekness and Lowliness of heart? Sure if any thing in the world be just matter of Wonder, this is, that no endeavours hitherto us'd, no, nor no severe Providences from God him­self, can reconcile Brethren, that have cost Christ so dear, are so dear to Christ, and ought to be so to each other! Do we not see how in Stormy Times, the poor Sheep and other Cattel will run together; how they get into their Folds and Flocks; how they herd themselves with a kind of united force; especially when the worrying Dogs and Wolves are abroad; do they not all then hasten to their Shelters and their Shepherds? And shall the very Instinct of Nature teach the Brute Beasts by this their mu­tual Ʋnion to defend themselves against present mischiefs, or approach­ing dangers, and shall not the most Noble Principle of Grace, called in the Scripture, the Wisdom from on high, much more teach men (good men!) to do the like? What is it would or could more disanimate the very worst and most potent Enemies the truly Reformed Protestant Reli­gion hath, than to see the several dissenting Parties of sound Protestants, firmly to unite together, and by mutual Allowances in the few things wherein they differ, to strengthen each other in the maintenance of the Faith which they have received from Christ and his Apostles, and do on all hands think it their highest concernment to profess and bear testimo­ny unto? This therefore may well challenge the first place in the Me­thods humbly offered for restoring the aforesaid Protestant Religion to a flourishing state.

Secondly, An universal, constant and conscientious care and endeavour in all Protestant Families throughout these Three Kingdoms, diligently to instruct their Children and Servants in the sound Principles of the said truly Reformed Protestant Religion: The like care to be used by all [Page 4] Schoolmasters, Tutors, Guardians, and others that have any charge of Souls under them; but most of all by Preaching Ministers, where-ever opportunity for such Work can be had. For the better accomplishment whereof, care is to be taken that such Catechisms may be made use of, as have no mixtures of Error in them, or are in any thing contrary to, or not agreeing with the Holy Scriptures; particularly in the Doctrine of the Christian Sabbath; and the Morality thereof; in which Calvin him­self (though otherwise a very famous and sound Divine) was defective. The Mistake of whose opinion therein, hath had too much influence upon the Protestant Churches abroad) most of all in France and the seven Ʋnited Provinces) as to the looseness of their Lives and whole Christian Profession. And here without offence let it be enquired, whether the strict observation of the Chrrstian Sabbath, as a Divine Institution of Christ, here in England, hath not rendred the sincere Professors of this Nation more eminent in all practical holiness than others of Foreign Parts? A firm belief of the Morality of our Lords-Day-Rest, and a due observation of it accordingly, contains no small part of the very Power of Godliness in it, as well as the Form thereof. The truth is, the careful and reverent regard unto this Day, as well in mens secret Closets and private Families, as in Publick Assemblies, hath kept up a pure and warm Religion more in England than in any part of the world besides. Even to this day, who do we find to be the most savoury and spiritual in Discourse, the most exemplary and worthy of imitation in their Lives, but those that are most strict in an holy observation of this Day? That have turned away their feet from the Sabbath (as the Lord speaks by the Prophet, Isa. 58.13.) from doing their pleasure on his holy day, and have called the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honoura­ble, and have honoured him, not doing their own wayes, nor finding their own pleasure, nor speaking their own words: I say, who so much as these doth God himself delight in, and all good men?

But if any say, that this concerns the Jews only, and those that keep the Seventh-day-Sabbath;

I answer, If those that are of that mind will but take pains to read what Bishop Ʋsher, in his Sum and Substance of Christian-Religion, hath written upon the translation of the Sabbath or time of rest, from the Seventh day to the First day of the Week, with the Reasons of it; as also what is published upon this Subject, not only formerly by many Learned Writers, but also of late by Mr. Hughes of Plimouth, Mr. Bax­ter, Mr. Wells, and others; but especially that most excellent Treatise upon it lately Printed, with this Title, Exercitations concerning the [Page 5] Name, Original, Nature, Ʋse and Continuance of a day of Sacred Rest; together with an Assertion of the Divine institution of the Lord's Day, and Practical Directions for its due Observation. I say, whosoever will pro­cure, and take pains to read over these Books, will soon find sufficient reason to believe, that the aforesaid words of the Prophet Isaiah, con­cerning the Sabbath, are very aptly applicable to the due Observers of our Christian Sabbath.

Now of all the spiritual employments of this Day, next to an at­tendance upon Publick Ordinances, in the Solemn Assemblies of the Saints; what hath been ever found to be more profitable, than when the Heads of Families, and others in their respective capacities, have by Questions and Answers in a Catechetical way, conveyed the sound knowledge of Christ and his great Gospel-Truths into the hearts of those committed to their care? Reading the Holy Scriptures also, repeating Sermons, singing of Psalms, and calling upon God in fervent Prayer, are all Sabbath-day Exercises in a Family: And blessed are those Fami­lies that are alwayes so employed. But the doing of this in an Inter­locutory way, with Children and Servants, so as to make them under­stand what they hear and read, and be enriched with the well-grounded knowledge of it; O this is excellent! and one of the best means imagi­nable to preserve the True Protestant Religion, and to transmit it from Father to Son, even from one Generation to another. And because a clear and distinct knowledge of Fundamental and Substantial Truths, with such Texts of Scripture as do most contribute to the right under­standing, confirmation and defence of them against all opposers what­soever, will be a most precious Antidote, as well against all sorts of Er­ [...] as those of Popery it self, I humbly propound to the pious Readers hereof these following Considerations.

First, Let it be considered, whether it would not be time well spent, if some persons of Wisdom and Ability, whether engaged in any Church-Society, or otherwise, were appointed (or themselves did it by their own voluntary undertakement) to go from house to house at fit times and seasons, there to discourse the weighty things of Religion with their Friends and Neighbours, and so to manage this Work, as still to leave the persons they thus converse with something more knowing in the great things of Religion than formerly? Frequent Visits to this pur­pose, with Line upon Line, here a little and there a little, would turn to a much better account both with respect to God's Glory, the advance­ment of Christ's Kingdom in the world, and the enlightning of many precious souls with saving knowledge, than such vain Visits as are every [Page 6] where now in use. In some places, the Pastors and other Officers of the Churches may do something this way themselves, after the example of that holy Person, and worthy Servant of Christ, Mr. Henry Jesse, lately deceased; but where the hands of Church-Officers are full of other work, perhaps some others in their respective Congregations might be found and prevailed with, to do their utmost in it; at least, so far as might consist with their necessary employments in their respective trades and callings. This is brave work, and doubtless will be well reward­ed by the God of Heaven, to the faithful and sincere-hearted Labourers in it. What doth the gracious and industrious Parent know, but that his continual dropping of heavenly words into his Children's ears; or the religious and loving Friend or Neighbour that doth the like with all that he converseth with (where a fair oportunity is offered) may be a means to work some blessed Conviction; yea, and a through Conversion too, in the hearts of those they thus discourse with? Christ may be preached as much and as effectually in personal and interlocutory discourses, as in set speeches, or Sermons in a Pulpit; nay, I know many instances can be given, where Discourses of this kind have done more this way, than all the Sermons that have been attended, though preached by men of the greatest eminency, for many years; as the Apostle sayes in another case, 1 Cor. 7.16 What knowest thou, O Wife, whether thou shalt save thy Husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy Wife? So say I; What knowest thou, O Parent, whether thou shalt save thy Child? or what knowest thou, O Christian, whether thou shalt save thy Friend or Neighbour, thy Brother or Sister by such spiritual and well ma­naged Discourses as these? However, if it be but well designed and en­deavoured, God takes it well, though the desired effect should not fol­low. Methinks that Passage in Dan. 12.3 should greatly move to such an undertakement and earnest endeavour therein; They that be wise (in the Margin, Teachers) shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness, as the Stars for ever and ever.

Secondly, Let it be considered whether of all other, such as are Pa­rents of Children ought not to be frequent at such work as this. I mean, not only upon Sabbath Dayes and other Set Seasons for Religious Exer­cises, but in their daily and hourly converse among them; for is not this according to the Command of old given to the People of Israel, as a work that their whole heart and soul should be continually engaged in? What God required of them in this particular, is it not recorded for our instruction, in Deut. 6. from v. 4, to 7? Hear, O Israel, thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy soul, and with all thy might; and these [Page 7] words which I command thee this day, shall be in thy heart, and thou shalt teach them diligently (Hebrew, thou shalt whet or sharpen them) unto thy Children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thy house, and when thou walkest in the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

Now if this be a Command that is alwayes obliging, and to all Pa­rents whatsoever (as doubtless it is) what then can we, in a well-grounded Charity, think of those Parents and Professors of Religion too, that order their affairs so, as very seldom, even almost next to never at all, are with their Children either Morning or Evening, much less all the day long, to perform these, so frequently to be repeated duties to them? Such hurries they are in, such multitudes of business and employments they continually take upon them; yea, so fill and crowd their heads and hearts therewith, that they neither have any mind, nor can be at leisure for these serious matters. Pretences indeed they make, of being commanded to be diligent in their Callings, and of a necessity lying on them with respect to providing for their Families, and such like specious Arguments from abused Scriptures; but whether these Ar­guments will quiet Conscience upon a dying Bed, I very much question; I know the care of providing for the Houshold, lies mostly upon the man, who is the Husband to the Wife, and the Father to the Children; and that it is the Mother's Duty, as well as the Father's to instruct the Children, and to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; but will this excuse the Father from doing his part too? or will it satisfie him in clogging himself with so much other employment, and that in such an eager pursuit after the things of this world only, as ei­ther hinders him in the performance of it, or renders him unfit for it? As for his poor Children and Family thus neglected by him, is not the instructing them in the One thing necessary, and the saving of their preci­ous souls, of far greater importance, than the getting of overmuch of this world for them?

But if this be not enough, especially in such times as these, when the true Protestant Religion is so much in its wane, and Popery every where spreads so fast as it doth: I say, if this be not enough to convince and reform such Fathers of Children, as to this part of their Duty, I shall leave them to, and pity them for this their Sin and Folly; and in the mean while, will apply my self to the Mothers of those poor neglected Children, earnestly advising and perswading, that what is wanting on the Father's side, may be made up by them; and indeed, the Mothers of Children for the most part, have every where more opportunity for [Page 8] this work, as being more constantly at home and w [...]oors, and to converse more with their Children than their Fathers can. They there­fore, if God gives wisdom and skill to educate the Children which they have brought forth, or as Mothers-in-Law, are providentially intrusted with, may be much employed this way, and with the blessing of God upon their faithful endeavours herein, may become Mothers a second time unto them, in their spiritual Births: I have known some women that have been much honoured of God for their Holy Labours and Di­vine Successes of this kind, among their Children and their Childrens Children; and this, while their Husbands have been meer Sots; yea, sometimes Opposers and Hinderers of it. Instances we have in Scrip­ture also that may greatly encourage unto this work. How came young Timothy to be so well instructed as ( [...]) from his Childhood or Infancy, as the Greek word imports, to have known the Holy Scriptures? 2 Tim. 3.15. I say, how came this to pass, but by the Godly and Re­ligious care and endeavours of those two holy women, his Grandmo­ther Lois, and his Mother Eunice? as is recorded, 2 Tim. 1.5.

What a pleasant Story doth Solomon tell us of himself, concerning his own education, when he was young? See what he sayes of the In­structions which he received both from his Father and his Mother.

First, From his Father, whose words he repeats throughout the whole fourth Chap. of Prov. some of which are these; Hear ye Chil­dren the instruction of a Father, and attend to know understanding; for I give you good Doctrine; forsake you not my Law; for I was my Father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my Mother; he taught me also, and said unto me, let thine heart retain my words, keep my Commandments and live; get wisdom, get understanding, forget it not, neither decline from the words of my mouth; forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee; wisdom is the principal thing, therefore get wisdom, and with all thy getting, get understanding; exalt her, and she shall promote thee; she shall bring thee to honour when thou dost embrace her: She shall give to thine head an Ornament of Grace, a Crown of Glo­ry shall she deliver to thee. Hear, O my Son, and receive my Sayings, and the years of thy Life shall be many. I have taught thee in the way of wisdom, I have led thee in the right paths; when thou goest, thy steps shall not be streightned, and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble; take fast hold of Instruction, let her not go, keep her, for she is thy Life. These and many other, were the most excellent counsels to the end of the whole Chapter, which Solomon sayes his Father gave him: in all which, how earnest and affectionate was David in pressing those things upon his [Page 9] Son Solomon; and how many Arguments doth he use to perswade him thereunto? But that which all Fathers of Children should do well here chiefly to mind, is, the chief Matter of that Instruction which David gives to his Son Solomon; namely, that he should get wisdom (that is, Grace) for so the word must be understood; and that he should be sure to get this above all things else, even above all other gettings whatsoever; and he gives the reason of it; for this, saith he, is the principal thing: as if he had said, this, O my Son Solomon, is of far greater worth and value than the Kingdom and Crown that thou art born unto; the Scep­ter that thou shalt ere long sway, and the Throne that thou shalt fit up­on; more excellent, far more, than all the Kingly Dignity and Honour that thou art capable of, or canst enjoy in this world.

Hence it was, that Solomon himself, having learnt this Lesson from his Father, sets it forth in that manner that he doth, in Prov. 3. from v. 13. to 19. Happy is the man (saith he) that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding; for the Merchandise of it is better than the Merchandise of Silver, and the gain thereof than fine Gold; she is more precious than Rubies, and all the things thou canst desire are not to be com­pared unto her. Thus he goes on, saying much more concerning the in­estimable value of that wisdom which his Father taught him to search after, and which himself afterwards so earnestly prayed for at his first coming to his Kingdom; as is recorded in 1 Kings 3. from 6. to 13.

And as we have this pleasant Story from Solomon's own mouth, of his Father's instructing him when he was young, let us see what he sayes of his Mother's Instruction also, his Mother Bathshebah; as it is like­wise recorded in Prov. 31. from 1, to 10. The words of King Lemuel (that is, Solomon) the Prophecy that his Mother taught him, What, my Son! and what the Son of my womb! and what the Son of my Vows! Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy wayes to that which destroyeth Kings: It is not for Kings, O Lemuel, it is not for Kings to drink wine, nor for Princes strong Drink, lest they drink and forget the Law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted. Open thy mouth for the dumb, in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction; open thy mouth to judge righteously and plead the cause of the poor and needy. Behold here the counsel of a Mother to her Son, of a Queen-Mother to the King her Son: how happy were it if all the Kings of the Earth were thus in­structed and did act accordingly?

3ly, Since the H. Ghost insisteth so much upon the instruction of young ones, since he gives so strict commands to Parents concerning it, and to others that are in the room of Parents; and since he commendeth and [Page 10] blesseth those that have been faithful in the discharge of this so necessa­ry and great a Duty; as he did Abraham, Gen. 18.19. Saying, Abra­ham shall surely become a great and a mighty Nation, and all the Nations of the Earth shall be blessed in him. Why so? For I know (saith he) that he will command his Children and his Houshold after him; and they shall keep the way of the Lord to do justice and judgment. I say, this also be­ing duly considered, would it not be an excellent and praise-worthy pra­ctice, if young persons of their own accord, Males with Males, and Fe­males with Females, would every where, all England over (as in some places I know they do) meet together, and that not only to pray with each other, and repeat Sermons (a practice very commendable and profitable) but also to confer together upon the Fundamentals of Reli­gion, which they have read and learned out of some well-approved Ca­techism, with the Scriptures alledged for the proofs of them. Many of these, especially, if under the age of sixteen years, may meet toge­ther for such religious purposes, and be no Conventiclers. What pity is it then that such Meetings of young ones are not every where in use, for mutual edification and instructions, which that they might thrive the better, would not some one grave person among them, to guide and assist them therein, very much help them in such a pious work?

Were this and the like endeavours by Parents and others, as afore­said, every where in common practice, what blessed advantages would from thence arise as to the propagating of the truly Reformed Protestant Religion? Among which, would not this be one great one, above the rest, namely, the facilitating the work of the publick Ministry, both as to Conviction, Conversion and Edification too, whilst the respective Auditories up and down the Kingdom would be, as it were, all bespang­led and richly enamell'd with well-instructed Families, and piously af­fected Auditors? What tractable, attentive and understanding Hearers would the Congregations be replenished withal? What flourishing ef­fects, what pleasant fruits would the Labourers in Christ's Vineyards find their faithful Labours to be crowned withal? Sure, if any way can possibly be thought of not only to preserve and restore the true Pro­testant Religion, but to put it into a more prosperous estate than ever it was known to be in in this Kingdom before; this is it.

But though what hath been said hitherto, may through the blessing of God, if put in practice, prove good and effectual means to raise and revive, as it were, the truly Reformed Protestant Religion, from the present swooning and almost dying state in which it seems every where to be; yet there is another thing no less important, to be most intensely [Page 11] minded and laid to heart by all considerate and sound Protestants, and that is, what is like to become of the true Protestant Religion a few years hence, if no better course be taken for the continuance and support of it, than is any where now on foot?

As for Popery, that is kept up and maintained, not only by the Pow­ers and Potentates of most Parts of Christendom, but by a continued nu­merous succession of Learned (though miserably blinded) men; as Christ sayes in another case, the men of that dark Antichristian Kingdom are wiser in their generation than the Children of Light; they are careful, from Age to Age, to find out and set apart the very Flower of their Youth, the most pregnant, fine-witted Lads that they can any where meet with throughout their Popish Kingdoms; upon these they spare no cost nor pains, to educate and bring them up in the profoundest Learning and largest improvement of their Parts, according to their respective Genius's and inclinations, to become serviceable in the propagation and defence of their false Religion. But alas! how little of this (in comparison) is done by the Protestant Party all Europe over? Insomuch that if God in his good providence doth not some way prevent it, and provide a­gainst it, the Protestant Religion ere long is not like to have many men of Parts and Learning able to defend it against its subtil and inveterate Ad­versary the Church of Rome: And how doth this glad the Romish Ca­tholick at the very heart, and fill him with hopes, that in the next ge­neration he shall carry all before him, and that, how zealous and suc­cessful soever some may now be, in preaching, writing and disputing against them; yet that the Children of them that do so, will be other­wise minded, or at least, through Ignorance and want of Learning, will not be able to maintain the noble and righteous Cause, which their Forefathers did, and that irrefragably and invincibly.

Now therefore since the case is thus, O all you zealous, true-hearted, and sound Protestants throughout these Kingdoms of England, Scotland, and Ireland, let me humbly propound an Expedient to you, that hath been upon my heart for some years; an Expedient, which I conceive is as feasible as obvious, if God give men hearts readily to comply with what I shall here suggest concerning it; which if they shall every where unanimously and vigorously set then selves about, I shall no way doubt, but that within the space of fifteen or twenty years, the truly Reformed Protestant Religion shall have no want of such as in due time, through the Blessing of God, shall become the learned and unconquerable Defend­ers of it against the greatest Champions the Church of Rome shall be able to produce.

[Page 12]Now that which in order hereunto I have to propound, will briefly fall under two Propositions.

First, That assoon as may be, all the Children of such true-hearted and Religious Protestants as are scattered up & down in the three King­doms and the several Schools in them, whether publick or private, and shall be found of pregnant parts, and well-grounded in Grammar-learn­ing, be speedily committed to such Pious, Orthodox and Learned men as shall be found able and willing to instruct and educate them in Ʋni­versity-Studies, and especially in those Languages, Arts and Sciences as may render them able Disputants and good Divines. I confine my self to the Children only of true-hearted and Religious Protestants, because I presume no others will make their Children so happy as to be so bred up.

Secondly, That from time to time, all true- hearted and Religious Protestants, as aforesaid (whether rich or poor) will set apart such of their Children as they shall find most eminent and hopeful for natural Parts, Capacities and Dispositions, unto this great service of the Gospel; and as they grow up, to send them to the Grammar-Schools; and so to high­er Studies. Several Objections, perhaps, may here come in against these two Propositions; one from the rich Protestants, the other from the poor. From the rich: We have Estates to give our Children, say they, and thereupon intend some of them for the Inns of Court, and from thence, for higher employments; others we intend for Merchants, or such and such gainful Trades; for what encouragement is there to bring them up to that sort of Learning which may fit them for Services in the Church, when they are not like to get any preferment or employ­ment without such sinful Compliances and time-serving Conformities, both in Doctrines and Manners, as may corrupt their Hearts, de­bauch their Consciences, and endanger their Souls for ever?

To these I answer; First, To those that design their Children to high employments, in case they bring them up to the aforesaid great Service of the Gospel, and (as Hannah did her Son Samuel) consecrate them to the Lord, and to his Temple-work, I conceive, they thereby advance them to no mean employment; but rather to as noble an one as any that can be named; it is no despicable work in the Apostles sence, to serve at the Altar, nor was it so in God's own account, when he glo­rified his Son Jesus to be a Priest, Heb. 5.4, 5. Solomon was the greatest and the wisest King that ever the world had, and yet was a Preacher; so was David his Father, before him, a Preacher and a Prophet, Psal. 40. [Page 13] 9, 10. So also were the Princes of Jehoshaphat; of whom it is said, that they taught the People in the Cities of Judah.

And for those that say they have Estates to give to these their Chil­dren, by which they may be able to live without other preferments, especially those which come in by Ecclesiastical Employments; Well, ad­mit it be so, will they not shew their love to Christ so much the more, in dedicating their Children and their Estates too, unto his Service? espe­cially in such an Age as this, when the right sort of Protestants every where, for the most part, are so poor, that they cannot give so li­beral a maintenance to the painful Preachers of the Gospel, as they desire and gladly would if they were able; and in case they bring up their Children to Idleness, because they have Estates to leave to them, and so put them into no Calling or Employment at all, what do they thereby do, but render them in a manner wholly useless both to Church and State? and which is worse, expose them to all manner of Temptations and Dan­gers which are wont to accompany an idle course of Life: and what comfort can Parents have in this, or their Children either? or what ac­counts will they both give hereof at the last day?

For those that differ from both the former, that is, neither intend their Children for high employments, nor yet to leave them Estates without Callings, but design them for Merchandizing and other gain­ful Trades, because they see no hopes of Ecclesiastical preferments, but upon the ill terms before mentioned. I shall only say thus much to them, if one great cause of the future decay of the Protestant Religion should be the want of such able men to defend it, as their Children in all probability might have proved to have been, had they been, in pure love to Christ and his Truth, dedicated and brought up thereunto; and so by that means, as much, if not more than any other, Popery should over-run this Land, what good will their gainful Trades do them in such a dismal change? and how little will God and their Country be beholding to them for this their carnal policy and eager pursuit after worldly ad­vantages, with the loss of the Gospel and the True Religion which it holds forth?

To that which is said concerning the want of encouragement from Ecclesiastical preferments; if Christ himself be worthy of credit, and may be believed in what he sayes, such as go forth in his Name, to preach the everlasting Gospel, shall not want subsistance nor encourage­ment in that work; but shall be sure where they come, to find welcom as well for their Persons, as their Doctrine; and shall not need to take care either for scrips for their journey, or for two coats, or for shoes, [Page 14] or for staves, no, nor for Gold or Silver, or Brass in their Purses, Matth. 10.9, 10.

Let this then suffice for answer to the Objections of the rich Prote­stants.

Now for those of the Poor; they also do make two Objections; one is, that they are totally unable to maintain their Children, or to bring them up in Learning, either in Schools or Academies, they have not where withal to do it. The other is, they are necessitated to train them up in some way even so soon as ever capable to get their own living, if not to be helpful to them their poor Parents also, and so cannot spare or allow them time for such education as aforesaid: were we able, say they, we would do it most willingly; but we cannot.

Now for the removal of this difficulty, I would become an humble and earnest petitioner to several sorts of Rich Protestants in these King­doms.

First, To all rich Protestants both Males and Females, that, though rich, yet by the Providence of God, some way or other, are determin­ed to a single life, and have power to dispose of their Estates as seemeth good unto themselves.

Secondly, To all such rich Protestants in the married state, that have no Issue or Kindred to provide for, or at least, such as have no need of them.

Thirdly, To all such rich Protestants, as, though blessed with Chil­dren, and may have other Relations to take care of; yet have so plenti­ful an Estate, that when all are well provided for, enough remains for other acts of Piety and Charity.

Fourthly, To all such rich Protestants as have purposes in their own hearts to dispose of the whole or any part of their Estates to some good use or other, but are not yet determined which way to do it, but would be glad to be advised how to improve what they have, so as God may be most glorified, and the publick good advanced in the Places and Coun­tries where they live.

To these four sorts of rich Protestants I will now address my self, and among other acts of Piety which they may have thoughts of, would earnestly perswade to these which follow.

First, That such pregnant Youths as are above-described, who either have no parents alive, but are poor distressed Orphans, and in a manner altogether friendless, or are the Children of poor Widows, poor Non­conforming Ministers, or other poor Protestants fearing God, may be adopted or taken care of by them, in Grammar Schools and Academies, [Page 15] for the ends aforesaid; and that in order hereunto, Feoffees in trust may be appointed (good and faithful men) to seek out for such as those, and to place them in good Schools and Academies, under such Masters and Tutors as shall be found most able and faithful in instructing such as shall be so committed to their care, in Learning and Piety; with this limitation, that in case any of the said Youths grow debauched, or within the compass of the times prefixed for them to be provided for, do fall into any erroneous Opinions or evil practices contrary or preju­dicial to the true Reformed Protestant Religion, they shall thenceforth be cashiered, and enjoy no further benefit of the said Mainte­nance.

As for their Academical Studies after they leave the Grammar-Schools, I propound ten or twelve years at least to be spent in them; for this main reason, that they may have space sufficient, before they enter into the Ministry, to lay a good foundation of solid Learning, and be the more ripened in their Parts and Abilities both Natural and Acquired, for so great a work as a right Preaching of the Gospel is; for if they be of pregnant Wits, and good Sudents, they may within the space of the said ten or twelve years, be competently well acquaint­ed with the Learned Languages and all those Liberal Sciences, the knowledge whereof is requisite to the study of Divinity; and in all which by daily study and practice, they will still become more and more expert, in which chief part of their studies, I mean Divinity, I conceive it would not be amiss, if they were particularly obliged by their Bene­factors, to read such of the soundest and most ancient Fathers and best Schoolmen as comply most with the Doctrine of true Reformed Prote­stantism; as also, that they be further obliged to read such of the Mo­dern Writers, both German and French, as are likewise of the same Judgment, but especiallly, that they be much versed in our English Divines not touched with Arminianism or other the like Errors; such such as Jewel, both the Reynolds's, Perkins, Amesius, Ʋsher, with the worthy Labours of Preston, Sibs, Mr. Anthony Burges, Burroughs, Bridge, Mr. Isaac Ambrose, Allen, Owen, Greenhill, Mr. Sydrach Symp­son, Symonds, Spurstow, Sedgwick, and many other of our Practical Divines that might be named; among which, I would by no means have omitted the excellent Works of Dr. Thomas Goodwin and Mr. Jo­seph Caryl; which Authors, and such like, when they have read over, and well digested, they will undoubtedly, with the Blessing of God upon their studies, become able men to preach the Gospel, and defend the true Protestant Religion against all Gainsayers whatsoever; yea, and [Page 16] in all probability, will attain unto such an Eloquence and fluency of Speech, such a sweetness and excellency of knowledge in Gospel-truths, and such a melting and moving way of preaching, as will render them blessed Instruments of much spiritual good to their Hearers. O what a joyful sound all over the three Kingdoms would such silver Trumpets as these make! and what golden Candlesticks with burning and shining Lights in them would be set up where-ere they come!

This is the first most advantageous use (as I humbly conceive) and most of all tending to the Glory of God and the true publick Good, which such rich Protestants, as aforesaid, might make of the Wealth and Abundance which the Lord hath given them. If any Design in the world be worthy to be accounted a Noble Design, surely this is, thus to propagate the truly Reformed Protestant Religion; and especially at such a time as this is, to revive it, as it were, out of its own Ashes.

The founding of Hospitals for the relief of aged and needy people, is a good Act; and the setting the poor on work, is another; so is the binding out of poor Children to be Apprentices, and thereby be made able to live, and be useful in the world; but this, methinks, is a work beyond them all; and indeed, at this time, and in this Age, of greatest necessity and importance.

The consideration whereof, I suppose, was one of the chiefest Rea­sons that stirred up those two most worthy Patriots, Erasmus Smith and Thomas Foley Esq (both yet alive) to erect their Famous Schools of Grammar-Learning, and devise such Statutes and Orders for the good Government and Education of the numerous Youth in them, as might most conduce unto this very end: three of which said Schools were Founded by the said Erasmus Smith Esq some few years since in Ire­land, with a Revenue amounting, in some short time, if well mana­ged, to no less than fourteen hundred pound per annum (as I am assu­redly informed) given for ever, for the maintenance and support of them. The other, very lately by the said Thomas Foley Esq in Worce­stershire, with an ample Revenue likewise for the upholding of it.

Rare Examples, and highly worthy of imitation, were there any to be found so well minded! Perhaps some may be found; we will hope the best: and should this little Treatise any way conduce thereunto, how should I think it a Mercy and Honour, that ever God put it into my heart to write it, and thereby occasion any to engage in so blessed a Work.

If it be objected, how can this be done, if men had never so good a mind to it? For are not places of Publick Education every where [Page 17] grown so corrupt, and debauched, that such as fear God dare not ad­venture their Children in them; for how hopeful soever they may be when they come thither; yet have not too many found by sad experience, the power of the Temptations they have there met with, even to their utter undoing?

I answer, That were it once resolved upon by the rich Protestants a­foresaid, as they live scattered up and down the Three Kingdoms, and care taken by them to educate such Youths in every City, Great Town, and Countrey, and this known to be so; no doubt is to be made, but as good Schoolmasters would be found, to do their parts without the Ʋni­versities; so good Tutors would seat themselves within the Ʋniversities to receive Pupils from all parts, that should be sent to them: Perhaps indeed they might not be admitted into the Colledges upon the account of Nonconformity; but yet perhaps they might be admitted to inhabit somewhere without the Colledges, as Students from all parts of the world do in the Ʋniversities abroad; as at Leyden, Ʋtrecht, Padua, Paris, Heidelburg, and many others; by means whereof, they may be present at all publick Disputations, Lectures, and other Ʋniversity-Ex­ercises, and bear their share in them, and in due time take their Degrees too (if not ensnared with Oaths, or otherwise hindered) and be as eminent in all parts of Learning, as any others; but if our Ʋniversities here at home, will not admit them to live among them, but exterminate and cast them out, they might be sent by their Benefactors to the best Ʋniversities abroad, particularly to Cambridg in New-England, who are wont to admit of Strangers, and that gladly too, from whatsoever parts they come. O happy day would that be, could we once see it! if the several hundreds of such rich Protestants, as aforesaid, which might be found in these Kingdoms, would set apart some Annual Revenue to continue for ever, for so brave a Service; how many thousands of pounds yearly might be raised with ease, and disposed of this way? and how many hundreds of hopeful young Branches might thus continually from time to time, spring up to succeed the old ones that decay so fast, and die daily?

Methought it very much affected me many years since, when I saw at the Jesuites-School at Antwerp, a great number of the Flower of the Youth of the City and Countrey thereabout, to be trained up in a Reli­gion so wicked and Idolatrous as the Popish Religion is; shall these men of so false a Religion be so sedulous and careful to raise up a succession of able instruments to maintain their rotten Cause, and not think the most ripe-witted and very best-Parted of their Children to be at all dispa­raged, but much honoured rather, to be so employed? And shall Prote­stants [Page 18] be otherwise minded concerning their Children, and less careful for their Religion?

And though I judge this first means now named, viz. the education of Youths in sound Religion and good Learning, to be the speediest and very best that can be propounded for retriving and advancing of true Protestantism, yet I conceive other methods added thereunto, will yet give some farther good help therein: and therefore,

Secondly, I do farther humbly move that the aforesaid rich Protestants will make another Annual Provision to continue for ever, for the teaching of poor Children, both Males and Females, to read the Scriptures, and to learn some good Catechismes, containing full and clear Instructions in all the principal and necessary Points of the true Reformed Protestant Religion, and this in every place throughout these Kingdoms; especially in those Cities, Great Towns and Villages, where the poor do most abound, and where is greatest Ignorance and Prophaneness; and that yearly Salaries may be setled to be constantly and duly paid to Schoolmasters and School­mistresses to that end; and also that some Reward be given to such of the said Children (suppose a Bible, or such like) that are quickest in their Learning, and shall have first read over the Bible, and can give the best account of their Catechism; this would much encrease a good emulation among them, and by an holy craft engraft the knowledge of Christ in them.

Rewards likewise of this kind, or a certain sum of money allotted yearly to such aged people and poor servants, whether Males or Females, as cannot read but by their own industry, with such helps as they can get, do at last attain unto it, and can make proof thereof; and farther, that having learned thus to read, they do dayly spend some time in reading the Bible and some good Catechismes, would be money well gi­ven. Who knows what even such a measure of knowledge as many an one may get this way, may do? Who knows how many a precious soul may be saved by it? I am sure no better course can be taken to spread abroad the light of truth, the rules of holiness, and to chase away Ig­norance and Prophaneness, where it abounds most, nor where people are thus instructed, would the busie Papists and their Emissaries be able to seduce so many, as 'tis justly to be feared they now do, and will do, especially in the dark and remote parts of these Kingdoms. And as in all places, thus to provide and raise up choice Instruments, and to instruct poor ignorant Creatures, whether old or young, in manner aforesaid, and for the ends aforesaid, would be an excellent work; so to do it there most of all, where is most need, will be most praise-worthy; as in Wales [Page 19] (especially in North-wales, and such of the Northern-Countries, and o­ther parts of England, as are most ignorant of God, and are least able, without the helps aforesaid, to train up their Children, either for pub­lick Service, or at least, so far as to be able in their own Mother-Tongue, whether Welch or English, to read and know the Scriptures.

And because of all parts of His Majesties Dominions, the poor Welch Countries seem to be most destitute of the saving Knowledge of God, and the means of it, partly for want of Bibles, Catechisms and other good Books in the Welch Tongue; and partly for want of learned and good men, able to preach in that Language to them, I therefore hum­bly propound on behalf of the said Welch people, to all considerate per­sons, whether it would not be another most excellent work of Piety, Chri­stian Charity and Pity to Souls, if the rich Protestants, living in those Countries, or elsewhere, should set apart an Annual Revenue for ever, for the maintaining of such good and able men to preach in the Welch Tongue: to such of them as understand no other; I mean, such peacea­bly-minded Nonconforming Ministers, as by reason of their Nonconformi­ty, how peaceably-minded soever they be, cannot be capable of the publick maintenance. And as a farther help to the saving knowledge of Christ in those parts, I once more humbly propound, whether it would not be a worthy work for the aforesaid rich Protestants, to take care that every year, an Impression of Welch Bibles, and the worthy Labours of some of the chiefest of our soundest Practical Divines be likewise turned into the Welch Tongue, and printed, and given to such as shall be found most desirous of them, but not able to purchase them; and this course to continue from year to year, till there be a sufficient store of Bibles, and other good Books in that Language, for the use of the said Welch Countries.

But methinks I hear some say, All the ways and means here pro­pounded for the restoring of the true Protestant Religion, and the far­ther advancement of it, are very good; and no doubt is to be made, but blessed effects will come of it, were they speedily and vigorously prose­cuted and put in practice; but who can perswade dissenting Brethren to such an amicable, sincere and hearty closure, as is desired? Who can perswade the Parents of Children every where, and others, that are the Governors of Families, or any way have the care of Souls, to lay sound knowledge into the minds of such as are committed to their charge, by Catechetical Instructions as hath been suggested? Who can perswade old and young to take pains in going from house to house, per­sonally to converse each with other, for mutual and further edifica­tion? [Page 20] Lastly, Who can perswade the rich Protestants every where, to lay out the whole, or any part of their Estates in the several wayes, and for the pious ends propounded? Alas! these are great things, and not to be hoped for in this Age, a much better Spirit must be found a­mong all sorts of men, before such Counsels as these will take place.

I confess, 'tis true, the work is difficult, and not to be in the least attempted (much less is it like to be accomplished) by any humane power; but as difficult as it is, and seemingly, even impossible; yet me­thinks one way remains that may render it not only feasable, but easily practicable also, and expeditiously prosperous, and that is, the power of God put forth upon the hearts of men; he is the Lord God Omnipotent, reigning and ruling in, and over all his Creatures; he doth whatsoever he pleaseth both in Heaven and in Earth; if he say the word, and give out his command, even to the most obstinate, and invincibly inflexible to any thing that is good, they presently obey; he that can cleave the Rocks asunder, melt the Mountains, and turn the whole Ʋniverse upside down, what cannot he do upon the Spirit, the Mind and Soul of any one whatsoever, to turn and encline it which way he pleaseth?

Well then, this I suppose will be granted, that how fierce and keen soever dissenting Brethren have been, and still are, one towards another, how morose, sharp, froward soever; yet he can take off that ferocity, that ferity and fierceness, and put them into a meek and humble temper; he that can make Lions to lie down with Lambs, and Leopards with Kids, sure can make the Lambs and the Kids to agree among themselves; he that can give that wisdom (where 'tis wanting) which is from above, and is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easie to be entreated; he can quickly, fastly, firmly, sweetly unite all his people, and so in like man­ner he can perswade to all the rest of the Matters now propounded.

If it be said, All this we know God can do; for who can hinder Omnipotence it self from doing whatever it hath a mind to? But what ground have we, or can we have to believe that he will do it?

I Answer, could we see but one thing generally practised by all true-hearted sound Protestants, throughout these three Kingdomes, viz. a con­stant course of earnest and fervent Prayer kept on foot. Could we see the Spirit of Grace and Supplication poured forth upon the House of Da­vid, and the Inhabitants of our Gospel-Jerusalem, for the obtaining of the Particulars afore-mentioned, by setting the power of God on work to effect them; I think there would be good ground to affirm, even without all peradventure, that he will do it, at least so far, as shall make for [Page 21] his own Glory, and the accomplishment of whatsoever good he intends for his people. And among other Arguments, I shall mention only these three, to perswade to a Belief thereof.

First, That he is, and alwayes will be willing to hear his Peoples prayers, and that in any thing they shall call upon him for (provided they pray aright, from right Principles, in a right manner, and to right ends) is evident from his Nature; he is a God of a most merciful, sweet and gracious disposition; the Scripture every where describes him so; a God full of Bowels; he hath his [...], his tenerrimos motus, his tender mercies, [...], Bowels of Mercy and Commisera­tions. This Christ himself bears witness to, Luke 18.7, 8. Where, af­ter he had put forth a Parable from the unjust Judge to the poor oppres­sed Widow, and did it to the end, that men ought alwayes to pray, and not to faint; he adds these words, if the importunity of the poor wi­dow with the unjust Judge, prevailed for justice, though he otherwise had no mind to do her Justice, shall not God (saith he) avenge his own Elect, which cry night and day unto him, though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. He is so propense to Mercy, I, and to Justice too, that whenever his people cry unto him, he will shew them mercy in the very execution of his Justice upon his Enemies: But mark here, when will he do this? when they cry unto him, when they sigh and groan out their Complaints, as the poor Israelites did under their Oppressions in Egypt, and as Daniel and the three Children did in the fiery Furnace and the Lion's Den; The sighings of his Prisoners came up before him, Psal. 79.11.

Secondly, It is likewise evident that it is, and must needs be so; namely, that God is, and alwayes will be willing to hear his Peoples pray­ers (when for matter and manner they pray aright, as was before hinted) from the Engagement which he is under, and hath freely laid upon himself, so to do; for hath he not promised, and that often, that when­ever his people pray unto him, and seek him with their whole heart, they shall be sure to find him? Nay, hath he not commanded, that they should call upon him in time of trouble? and then backed that command with a special assurance given, that when they do so cry, he will give a gracious Audience? Psal. 50.15. compared with Jer. 29.12, 13, 14. Multi­tudes of Passages in Holy Writ put this altogether out of question; a­mong which I cannot omit to mention that most emphatical place in Isa. 65.24. It shall come to pass that before they call (the Prophet speaks it of the Lord's people) I will answer before they call! Mark that; God will be more ready to answer than they to call, mere ready to hear than they [Page 22] to speak; and this also, doth not our blessed Saviour more than once bear witness to concerning his Father; namely, That whatsoever we ask of the Father in his Name, he will give it, John 15.16. & chap. 16.23.

Thirdly, For farther confirmation unto this great and blessed Truth, that God is willing to hear his Peoples Prayers, hath he not left store of Instances upon record, that de facto he hath done so, and that from age to age, throughout all generations? Did he not hear the Groanings of the Children of Israel under their cruel Taskmasters in Egypt? Did he not hear the Cries of the poor captive Jews in Babylon, and at last bring them out from thence? Did not the Supplications of Ezra, Nehemiah, Daniel, in the three ninth Chapters of their several Books, come up to Heaven, and find acceptance, both for themselves, and all the rest of their distressed Brethren? Did not the Prayers of Mordecai and the per­plexed Jews in Shushan, added to those of Queen Esther and her Mai­dens, prevail against proud Haman? Did not the Cries of Jonah, even out of the Belly of the Whale, find a passage through the surging waves? and prove so quick, even with their watry wings, that they came in un­to God, even unto his holy Temple? as the expression is, Jonah 2.7. Time would fail to relate the pleasant stories to this purpose, which stand up­on record, not only in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament, but also in all other Ecclesiastick Story.

Well then, the Premises considered what remains, but that I now call upon all true-hearted Protestants throughout these three Kingdoms, that they would take encouragement from hence, and set upon this pray­ing-work with all possible speed and vigour; especially two things more being farther considered.

First, That God is as willing to hear Prayers now as ever, as kind, as merciful, and as much engaged to his People that truly fear him, and seek unto him, as ever, and will be as faithful in performing with his Peo­ple as ever he was.

Secondly, That the state of the true Reformed Protestant Church and People of God never had more need of Prayer; never was at a lower ebb than now, never had more numerous and potent enemies to grapple with, since the times of Reformation came in among us.

These arguments one would think should have force enough in them, with all good and sound-hearted Christians, to put them upon this so needful, seasonable, and (if well managed) successful Duty of Prayer; a Duty, which hath done such wonders in all ages; the prevalency of which hath been attested by so rich experience in them that have made trial of it; a Duty which God himself calls us so much unto, [Page 23] takes so much delight in, and hath encouraged by so many Promises. 'Tis true, the Devil is a great enemy to it, and evil-minded men op­pose it what they can, because where this is much in use, it greatly fights against and keeps down the Dominion of Sin and Satan, not only in the hearts of particular men and women, but in whole States and Kingdoms.

If any say, it is indeed a Command, and so a necessary as well as a very profitable Duty, and God forbid but it should every where be much in practice, in every Closet, in every Family, in every publick and so­lemn Congregation, at the due times and seasons of it; but what do you mean when you call so earnestly upon the Protestants to pray? do you mean to perswade them to break the King's Laws by Conventicling and meeting together in great numbers for this Duty? 'tis some extra­ordinary kind of praying sure, you intend by this your so zealous exhor­tation to it. To which I answer.

It is indeed an extraordinary Spirit of Prayer which I long to see in all the Lord's people, there being such extraordinary occasions for it; and therefore besides the secret, private and publick Prayers before men­tioned, in Closets, Families, and solemn Congregations in times of publick Worship; it is the vehement desire of my Soul, that they would once every week at least, set apart some time, more or less, as may consist with their several Callings and Employments, to call upon God by earnest Prayer, and this all over the Three Kingdoms, where-ever any true praying Saints can be found, that can conveniently meet toge­ther: which to do, and that with mighty wrestlings, as Jacob did, when in danger of his Brother Esau, I understand not how it is a breach of any of the King's Laws, unless the late Law against Religi­ous Meetings be intended; but to grant such Meetings as these to be absolutely unlawful in themselves, or to be intended by that Law, I understand not any further, than that the number beyond four (besides the House-keeper) in such Meetings, may by that Law render them criminal: but where offence is taken at the number exceeding what the Law directs, why may not the good people of England make up their Meetings in that very number which is allowed, rather than not to meet at all; or so meet as to give offence unto the Civil Magistrate? Will not the number of forty persons, meeting in eight or ten distinct compa­nies, be as prevalent with God, as if they all made up but one Meeting? and will not the Gifts and Graces of many more particular persons be thus exercised, than can be, if all these eight or ten Meetings were uni­ted together in one?

[Page 24]But now the next thing to be considered, is, what should be the principal subject Matter of this special and extraordinary Meeting toge­ther in Prayer? This indeed to be unanimously agreed upon, and eve­ry where, as it were, uno tenore, with one consent, to be put up by all praying Saints, would be very material, and much conducing to the ends for which it is here humbly moved; an universal Harmony and Agreement in the things prayed for, must needs be excellent, and, from the very agreement that is in it, be the more prevalent; for doth not Christ himself intimate so much unto his Disciples, Matth. 18.19? If two of you shall agree ( [...]) on earth, as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in Heaven. If a right spiritual Prayer, wherein the Heart and the Mouth of any one that prayes alone, do agree together, be a Divine Me­lody, sweet and delicious Musick in the ears of God, as himself tells us it is, Cant. 2.14. Let me hear thy voice (saith he) that is, her voice in prayer) for sweet is thy voice; I say, if it be true thus of one single person praying alone, must it not needs be so much more when the hearts, minds and spirits of divers agree together, when met about that blessed work? Instances for this might be given; take one instead of many: It is that of the Prophet Malachi, chap. 3.16. where we thus read, Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another (and also one with another in this Duty of Prayer) and the Lord hearkned and heard, observe the Passage; he hearkned, as men do to some rare consort of Mu­sick; and so indeed the word Symphony used by our Saviour himself, in the place before-quoted, every one knows, that knows any thing of the Greek Tongue, doth properly signifie an Harmony of Voices, or of Instruments, or both together: Thus Novarinus in locum; Verbo Graeco elegans subest Metaphora, [...], de Musico vocum concentu har­monico (que) sono dicitur, tanquam si diceretur, non minus gratam ess Deo comordem plurium orationem quam Concentus Musicus hominum auribus sit gratus.

This then being a good reason for such an agreement in the matter of such extraordinary Prayer, as I humby move may be every where set on foot, and constantly kept up, in the practice of it, till the Scene of things be so altered, that the Harmony of Prayer, may be put into a new Tune of Praises. Among other Petitions which it shall please the Lord by his good Spirit to frame in the hearts of all praying Saints, I con­ceive the Matters mentioned in the foregoing Discourse, will be very pertinent and seasonable, as pursuant to the ends designed by it; namely,

[Page 25]That all the Particulars before discoursed upon in this small Treatise, viz. a sweet Harmony and Agreement between all dissenting Parties, a conscientious performance of all the before-mentioned Family-Duties, may be every where set on foot; with such other Methods as are pro­pounded for the encrease of knowledge, and the establishing of the minds of people in the truly Reformed Protestant Religion, now so much struck at; and especially, that God would please to stir up the Rich Protestants to the forementioned works of Piety and Charity, for the preservation of the said truly Reformed Protestant Religion, and the de­livering of it down to the Generations that are to come.

If earnest Prayer be put up for this, and that universally, by all that know how to pray, throughout all these Three Kingdoms, namely, on behalf of these Rich Protestants, as well as in the other particulars beforementioned, who can tell, what a choice publick Spirit God may put into them? He can make even the Niggard bountiful, and the Churl liberal; he can open the Hearts, Hands, Purses, and possess the minds of thousands with the excellent Service they may do this way; not only to the present, but the Future Ages: He can tell them, and set it home upon them, that they cannot possibly honour the Lord with their substance more effectually in this world, than to set it a running in the forementioned Channels, that by this means, that is, by propaga­ting and delivering down the true Protestant Religion to all posterity, by such an use of their Estates, as aforesaid, will greatly turn unto their ac­count both here and hereafter.

First here; even in this life, and that many wayes; for will they not hereby, not only provide for many poor Childrens outward subsistence and livelihood in this world? But which is a greater thing, give ad­vantage to the improvement of the Parts and Natural Gifts of many a Fine Wit for publick Services, that otherwise would be in a manner wholly lost, and become useless, both in Church and State, for want of an ingenious education? And, which is yet more, will they not keep up a learned and able Ministry; and thereby, in time, make up the la­mented loss of those many famous, burning and shining Lights, which of late years have been extinguished, and still are more and more extin­guished every day? and will they not by this means likewise, have the Prayers of Multitudes continually sent up to Heaven for them, that Blessings of all sorts may be poured down upon them and theirs? Yea, and will not (as the Apostle sayes in much the like case, 2. Cor. 9.11, 12, 13.) this very thing, namely, this bountifulness and liberal distri­bution for so brave a Service unto the Saints (as well those that are not [Page 26] yet born, as those that are) cause many Thanksgivings unto God?

Hereafter, at the great Tribunal of God; how great a reward will it lay up for them, and how high a place will it mount them to in hea­ven? all those thousands of men and women that shall come to a true knowledge of God, and the saving of their precious Souls; in after­ages, as a consequence and effect of this their so pious disposal of their wealth, will they not pass for such as they have some way been in­strumental in the saving of? The Conversions wrought by those men, which they shall have brought up, and have given a liberal and holy E­ducation to, will they not, in part, be ascribed to them? The Rule in Philosophy is true here, Causa causae est causa causati; in all noble acts, the first and remote Cause is to be acknowledged the spring and fountain of the next and more immediate causes and the good effects thereof.

When stout and valiant Champions which they instrumentally shall have thus raised up, not only for the propagating of the truly Reformed Protestant Religion, but for a strenuous defence of it also, against all Op­posers whatsoever; and when the minds of people, every where, shall thereby be so fixed and established, as to be able to stand against all shocks and storms, so that no Errors, no Powers, no Factions, Conspira­cies, Subtilties, or combined interest of a Popish Party; no Priests or Jesuites, or their Adherents shall be ever able to hinder the growth of true Protestantism; much less exterminate it out of these Kingdomes: what matter of Joy will this be to all such Rich Protestants, as upon the consecrating of their Estates to the uses aforesaid, shall see such blessed effects and fruits thereof; yea, and as was before said, what high re­ward too shall they be sure to be enriched with in the other world upon this account?

But now on the contrary, how much otherwise will it be with all such rich Protestants, especially such of them as pretend to a profession of Religion (and it may be, amongst the most zealous Protestants too) and yet have hearts so eaten into, yea so eaten up, and even gangren'd with Covetousness; that,

First, They are so far from doing good to others with the abundance of wealth which they reckon themselves Masters of, that they live like slaves themselves to it, so penuriously, so sparingly, so pinchingly, that every wise observer of them cannot but wonder at their folly, and every good man pity it.

Secondly, When any opportunity is offered them for advancing any work of publick or private Charity, be the necessity and excellency there­of never so visible and apparent; yet, they either find pitiful excuses, or [Page 27] frivolous Arguments against it, and so plainly reject it; or, if [...] part with any thing, it is in so small a pittance, and with so much pain and difficulty, as if they were letting out so much of their Heart-blood.

I say concerning such miserably-minded rich men as these, how lamen­table is their condition here? and how much more lamentable is it like to be hereafter? for the evincing of both which, it would be well for this sort of men frequently and with all seriousness, to read and consider these following great Scripture-Truths wherein they are deeply concerned, and for whose sake, after an especial manner, they seem to be made a part of the Divine Oracle, and to be left upon record.

First, The manifold mischiefs, hurts and dangers that this wretched spirit of theirs inevitably hurries them into, as is expressed at large in Prov. 28.20, 22. and in Eccles. 5. from v. 10, to 18. compared with Mat. 13.22. 1 Tim. 6.9, 10. Jam. 4.4, 5. from v. 1, to 5.

Secondly, With as much seriousness and frequency to read and consider that passage, 1 John 3.17. Whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his Brother have need, and shutteth up his Bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? And what advantage will he have by his wealth, if God hath no love for him, nor he for God and his people, in a right use and improvement of it?

Thirdly, and lastly, Let them seriously consider, that being but Stewards for God, and must give an account of their Stewardship; as is fully set forth in the Parable of the rich man's Steward, in Luke 16. Their account of all others, is like to be the most dreadful, and thereupon have they not need to use this, or the like Letany?

From an excessive love unto, insatiable desires after the world, with a vehement and most eager pursuit thereof; from the sordid spirit of the vile person, mentioned by the Prophet Isaiah, chap. 32. from v. 5. to 8. from the God-provoking, soul-damning and detestable sin of Covetousness, which is Idolatry; from an exclusion out of Heaven, and the loss of eternal life; from the Treasures of wrath heaped up against the day of wrath, and from the everlasting burnings of unquenchable flames among the Devils in Hell, which are the Miser's portion; Good Lord deliver us.

THe consideration of two things, methinks, should very much affect all sound and true-hearted Protestants.

First, The great and continual decay of the old Stock of our Learned, A­ble, Orthodox, Faithful, Laborious, Protestant Divines. How fast do they drop away? how do they die daily? And how are the Flocks and People they were Shepherds unto, every where left destitute? To say nothing of those Famous Lights which were extinguished in the foregoing Age, viz. the reverend Mr. Greenhams, Hildershams, Reynolds, Dods, Clevers, Scud­ders, Twisses, Byfields, Batemans, Rogerses, Capels, Boltons, Balls, Whartons, Wards, Bowleses, Perkinses, Amesiusses, Straughtons, Har­risses, Pinks, Wheatleys, Whites, Wilsons, and hundreds more. What sore blows in this kind have we received within this last twenty or five and twenty years? How many Marshals, Burroughses, Wilsons, Goodwins, Carters, Sympsons, Bonds, Jeanses, Sydenhams, Palmers, Symonses, Whitakers, Arrowsmiths, Youngs, Vineses, Gatakers, Ashes, Penns, Hills, Collinses, Beadles, Fullers, Cawdreys, &c? Yea, within this last fifteen years, how many Noltons, Taylors, Strongs, Slaters, Sedgewicks, Ruttons, Spurstows, Burgesses, Helmses, Hammonds? Yea, within one five years, how many Tuckneys, Stauntons, Reyners, Calamies, Newcomens, Greenhils, Bridges, Malories, Caryls, Nyes? And among others, how many young ones in the very Prime and Flower of their age, and heat of their work in the Lord's Vineyard, have been cropt off? How many Swinnocks, Sammses, Allens, Woods, Blakes, Pearses, Ste­ries, Loaders, Vennings, Janeways?

Secondly, The very few or almost none at all that have come up in the room of them nor (as things now stand) are like to do for the last fif­teen years together, where have any been found (setting the Confor­mable Clergy aside) who have filled up the places of the foremention­ed, either in Life or Doctrine, in Studies or Preaching, or in such an elaborate care of Souls, as those deceased Worthies underwent, even un­to the death?

Now of all others, should not you the sincere-hearted Professors of the said Reformed Protestant Religion, and the true lovers of it; you the Parents of Children, and you the Friends to other young Relations (es­pecially, [Page 29] (if numerous, or any way committed to your care [...] solicitous for their souls welfare now in this next following Age, and [...]down to succeeding times? Would you not be willing that your Chil­dren and your Childrens Children should be good Protestants? and in or­der thereunto, that sound, able and faithful Protestant-Divines should from time to time be bred up, to make up the loss of such as die daily? That young ones still should come up in the room of old ones, and so the Faith, which, as the Apostle saith ( Jude 3.) was once delivered unto the Saints, should be maintained in all future Generations? I sup­pose you would; and if so, what better way can you think of to pro­vide such, than what is suggested in this little Treatise? If you can find a better way, take it, and do your utmost in it; but do not imagine that you are no way concerned, and that the care of these matters lies upon God only, as if his will were not, that in this, as in all things else, we should use all lawful and good means to attain the mercies we need, as well in Soul-concerns, as in those of the Body. I know God will have a Church in all ages, and a select People unto himself, pickt out and cull'd from the rest of the world; and I know and believe further, that not one of his elect shall miscarry or come short of heaven. The Scriptures of Truth are full for these things, and by one means or another the all-wise and all-powerful God will effect them; and when ordinary means fail, he can and will make use of extraordinary. But this doth not exempt us from our duty and utmost endeavour to do our part; for in such a neglect shall we not be found rather Tempters of God, than Trusters in him? 'Tis true, in former times, when deep Popery and the gross dark­ness of it had thickned the Heavens over us, and even quite darkned all the European World, God was pleased here and there to raise up Instru­ments in an extraordinary way to own, maintain and propagate the Truth in several Ages and Kingdoms. Thus about the thousandth year after Christ, he was pleased to raise up one Leuthericus Archbishop of Senes in France, effectually to own and maintain the Truth in the point of Transubstantiation, which he most stoutly opposed. And some time after him Beringarius, born at Towres in France, and constituted Arch-Dea­con of Angeirs, defends the same Truth against Transubstantiation with great boldness; and therein was followed by the French Protestants cal­led Hugonites. Then about 350 years after, he raised up our famous John Wi [...]kliff of Merton-Colledge in Oxford, who in the days of our King Edward the Third, and Richard the Second, so notably discovered the Pope to be Antichrist, and so strenuously asserted and maintained the main Truths (which we Calvinists now hold) that he was called [Page 30] the Lamp of England. Some time after riseth up our famous Bradwar­dine; and John Hus follows him in Bohemia; and Jerom of Prague fol­lows John Hus. Then Martin Luther about 100 years after, is fetched out of the Colledge of Augustin Monks at Erphord in Germany; him Desiderius Erasmus of Rotterdam (that Prodigy of Wit and Learning) de­fends. Next Huldericus Zuinglius of Tigurum among the Switzers. Oecolampadius of Weinsperge in Germany; Ʋrbanus Regius in the Ter­ritories of Montfort; Carolostadius in France; Wolfgangus Capito in Al­satia; Leo Judae in Helvetia, Fredericus Myconius in Franconia; John Diazius, a Spanish Priest, and a great friend to Martin Bucer; Gasper Cruciger of Lipseich in Misnia; Paulus Fagius, born in the Palatinate; Martin Bucer aforesaid of Selestadt in Germany; Gasper Hedio of Etlin in the Marquisate of Baden; George Prince of Anhalt; Justus Jonas of Wittenberg in Germany; who having unwittingly eaten an Onion which his Father when sick of the Plague, had applied to his Sore, was mira­culously preserved for the Service he was born unto; Peter Martyr of Florence in Italy; Conrade Pelican of Rubeac in Swedeland; Bugenhagi­us of Julinum in Pomerania, Philip Melancton of Bretta in the lower Palatinate; John Lasco of a Noble Family in Poland, Augustine Marlo­rat, born in the Dukedom of Lorrain, an Augustin Frier; Nicholas Amsdorsius, born of Noble Parents in Misnia; Wolfangus Musculus, born at Pusa, a little Town in Litharingia, and a Benedictine Monk in the Palatinate, Gerardus Hyperius at Iper in Flanders; John Calvin born at Noviodunum near the Borders of Picardy; Paulus Vergerius, Pope Clement the seventh his Legate in Germany; Victorinus Strigelius of Kausbira in Switzerland, John Brentius of Wile in Sweveland; Peter Viretus, born in the Countrey of the Bernates; Stephen Zegedine, born in the lower Panonia; Peter Ramus, born in France; Henry Bullinger, born at Bremagarta in Switzerland; Flavius Illiricus, born at Albona in Selavonia; Josias Simlerus, born in Helvetia; Peter Boquin, born in Aquitane; Zacharias Ʋrsin, born in Silesia; Abraham Bucholtzer, born at Scovanium; John Wigandus, born in Mansfield; Martin Chemnitius born at Britza in old March; Rodolphus Gualter, born in Tigure; Ga­sper Olevian, born in Trevir; George Stronius, born at Friburg in Wret­ [...]law; James Andreas, born at Waiblin in Wittenberg; Hieronimus Zanchius, of a Noble Family in Italy; Anthony Sadel, born upon the Confines of Savoy, not far from Geneva; Lambertus Danaeus, born at Aurelia in France; Nicholas Hemingius, born at Loland in Denmark; Robert Rollock and John Knox, both born in Scotland; James Heer brand, born at Noricum in Swevia, for his early and late studies called Suevica [Page 31] Noctua, the Swevian Night-crow; David Chytraeus, born at Ingelfing in Sweveland; Daniel Tossanus, born at Moumbelgard in Wirtemberg; Franciscus Junius, and Theodora Bezus, born in France; Amandus Po­lanus, born in Silesia; Andraeas Gerardus, born at Hypeirs in Flanders; Aretius Benedictus, born at Berne in Switzerland; John Drusius, born at Aldnard near the City of Gaunt; James Gerynaeus, born at Berne in Helvetia.

All these famous men (as they are reckoned up by Melchior Adam, Ful­ler, and others) as well those which are here named before Luther, as those that are reckoned up after him, and were born some time within the Sixteenth Century, were at first born in Popery, and in their younger times were trained up in it; but being all of them men of admirable Natural Parts, great Students, and singularly well learned, were touch­ed with Divine Powers, enlightned and warmed with Divine Beams of Truth, and the Love of it, and thereupon forsook their Popish Principles, some in part only, some wholly and throughout, and were by extraor­dinary calls from God, set up as glorious Lights in the dark times and places when and where they lived; God himself plucking them, as it were, like Firebrands out of the Fire, with a purpose to make an honou­rable use of their Parts, Learning and Grace, against Popery and all manner of Popish Sects and Orders, as Monks, Priests, Friers, Jesuits, and their detestable Doctrines. And as he did this abroad, in the seve­ral Countries abovenamed, so here in our own Native Countrey; did he not in the same times, I mean in the same 16th Century raise up many worthy men, famous also for their both Parts and Learning; and not only convert them after their popish education, but make eminent use of them as valiant Champions, Confessors and Martyrs for the Truth, viz. John Colet of London, John Frith of Westram in Kent, William Tyndal, Thomas Bilney, John Rogers, the Proto-Martyr in Queen Maries dayes; Laurence Sanders, John Bradford, John Hooper, Hugh Latimer, Nicholas Ridley, Thomas Cranmer, Rowland Taylor, John Philpot, John Jewel, John Reynolds, John Fox, and many more which might be added. I say, though God did this, and can do the like again in an extraordina­ry way; though he can open the eyes of those learned men in this our present age, and turn their hearts from the Error of their wayes, who are now deeply dren hed in the Doctrines of Pelagianism, Arminianism, Socinianism, Popery, or whatsoever it is that borders upon any one of them; though he can find out an Ambrose, by his preaching to con­vert an Austin, with the help of the Prayers and Tears of his Mother Monica; though by one man's Books he can convert another, as he did [Page 32] Martin Bucer, Paulus Vergerius, Carolostadius, Leo Judae, Zuinglius his companion in Studies; Fredericus Myconius, John Diazius a Spa­nish Priest; Ʋrbanus Rhegius, Wolfangus Musculus, and many other Famous men in Germany, by reading of Luthers works. I say, though by these and many other wayes, he can raise up instruments even from men of the present age, and now in the very Prime and Flower of their Parts and Learning, cause them to return to sound Doctrine! whatever their present Errors may be) and strenuously to maintain it against Pope­ry and other prevailing corruptions in Doctrine or otherwise: Yet no man in his right senses will deny but that it is every good Protestants duty, in his place and calling, and as opportunity may be providentially given to him, or taken by him, to do his utmost for providing a standing and alwayes succeeding Ministry in the usual and ordinary way of Education of hopeful Youths in Schools of Learning, which is the thing that in this small Treatise I principally press unto. And therefore to conclude all, since the Scriptures both of the Old and New Testament declare it to be a most blessed thing to convert Souls, and to bring in sinners to Christ's Fold, as is evident by comparing Dan. 12.3. with Luke 1.14, 18. Eph. 3.7, 8. with many other pregnant Texts that might be added to the same purpose; I Query,

1. Whether the Work of the Ministry, where it is faithfully and sincerely discharged by able, orthodox and painful Labourers in Christ's Vineyard, and is accompanied with an answerable success, or at least finds a gracious acceptance with Christ, be not a very honourable, and (to all considerate good men) a very desirable employment? and whether those Parents and their Children that undervalue, despise and scorn it as a mean and contemptible course of Life, may not well expect to be scorn­ed of God, and for ever to be rejected by him?

2. Although the Ministry and the work thereof be so honourable an employment, as willingly to be undertaken and delighted in by such as the Lord inclines unto it and qualifies for it; yet whether they ought not to be encouraged and rewarded for their faithful and painful Labours therein, even to the utmost power and ability of those that sit under them, and have the benefit thereof? For doth not Christ himself say, The Labourer is worthy of his hire, Luke 10.7. and the Workman of his Meat, Mat. 10.10. and this, though he be otherwise rich, and hath no need? And much more then must it not needs be true of all such faithful and painful Ministers, as having Wives, Children and Families to maintain, have nothing else to live upon but what comes in this way? Let all that are concerned herein, read and consider well 1 Cor. [Page 33] 9.13, 14. Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things, live of the things of the Temple? and they that wait at the Altar, are parta­kers with the Altar? even so hath the Lord ordained, that they which preach the Gospel, should live of the Gospel. And that in 1 Tim. 5.17. Let the Elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour ( [...], double reward) especially they who labour in Word and Do­ctrine.

3. But when and where worthy and able men are found, that with the peace of their own Consciences, cannot be capable of publick mainte­nance through their Nonconformity in matters Ecclesiastical; and the well-minded Protestant-Party every where, by persecutions, are (for the most part) so far impoverished, ruined and undone, that they are not a­ble to give a livelihood to such as preach unto them; would it not be a worthy work, and exceedingly well pleasing unto God, if such rich ones among them, as are yet left able to do it, would take care so far to minister to them, and allow them such a maintenance as might encourage them in their work, in the midst of all that opposition which they meet with from unreasonable and ill-minded men?

4. Whether all such rich Protestants as are mentioned in the forego­ing Treatise, that have Sons of their own, of pregnant Parts, apt to learn, and by perswasions of them their Parents, would easily be incli­ned to the Service of Christ in the aforesaid glorious work of the Ministry, or in case they have no such Sons of their own, yet would please to adopt such as are in the said Treatise already suggested, and not only bring them up to the said Service, in manner as is propounded; but settle a liberal maintenance upon them during their lives, at least, in case they continue sound in the Faith, painful in their Work, and holy in their Conversations: I say, whether those that shall do such a noble work as this, besides the giving proof of their Love to Christ, they will not by this means render the Children which they thus bring up & dedicate to the Lord's work, and settle Estates upon them in considera­tion of it (whether they be their own Children or such as are adopetd by them) I say, whether they will not render them doubly happy? First, in putting them into so honourable and heavenly an employment? Se­condly, In delivering them from the Snares and Temptations they would otherwise be endangered by, if not thus provided for, upon account of their faithfulness and constancy in their work, whatsoever discourage­ments and troubles they may meet with for their works sake?

5. Whether it would not be one of the most Glorious works that some Ages have produced, if certain rich Protestants, amongst others the [Page 34] aforementioned Acts of Piety humbly moved to be promoted by them, here in Old England, should agree together to set [...]le a perpetual liberal maintenance upon the Ʋniversity of Cambridge in New-England, and so to endow it; that it might be a standing and lasting Nursery to all suc­ceeding Ages, not only to train up such hopeful and well educated Youths for the service of the Gospel there, as shall be born in that Coun­trey; but such also as shall be sent from hence for the same purpose, in due t [...]me to return hither richly furnished with sound Learning and abi­lities to do the like service here? Methinks 50 or 60 (if not 100) per­sons might easily be found in this Kingdom of Old-England, that might each of them give an hundred pounds a year for ever to the said Ʋniver­sity in New Eng [...]and, for so pious and renowned a work, and thereby not only perpetuate and embalm their Names here, but prepare the more abundant entrance for themselves into the Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and so be he higher in happiness hereafter. For though I am far from that Popish Opinion of Merit (whether of condignity or con­gruity) and do not in the least think that any man whatsoev [...] [...]an de­serve any thing at the hand of God for any good work or work that can be done by him; yet that every one receives according to his w [...]ks, is no false Doctrine, if those Scriptures be true in 2 Cor. 5.10. [...] 14.13. & 20.12, 13.

6. Whether this small Treatise, if it shall be judged useful and seaso­nable, will not be so most of all by being dispersed abroad into many hands, and into those principally that it is more particularly intended for, as into the hands of all dissenting (though sound in the main) true-hearted Professors; into the hands of the Parents and Governors of nume­rous Families; into the hands of the several sorts of the aforementioned rich Protestants; into the hands of all religiously affected young persons, especially such as are under the age of sixteen years? And whether it would not be Money well laid out to print so many Impressions, and take care and pains to disperse them, as might replenish all the aforesaid Par­ties in these Three Kingdoms of England, Scotland and Ireland? Per­haps some of the things humbly proposed in the Treatise, may take with some, others with others; some may be prevailed with by it, to de­dicate their own Sons to the Service of the Sanctuary; some to adopt o­thers; some that cannot, or have no mind to do this, may settle Coun­trey-Schools, and give yearly Stipends for teaching poor Children to read, in great and populous Towns, and where is greatest Ignorance and least Means for Knowledge in the remote and dark parts of the Kingdoms particularly in the Northern and Western Parts, and all over Wales?