IF the natalicious and Birth-places of most Noble and Victorious Princes, or the Cities where they put off their Princely Ornaments, sub­mitting their Mortall Bo­dies to the Earth, their common Mother, may be accounted an Honour to such Places; Then may [Page 2] this Observation justly add some reputation unto him, whose Life (in part) I un­dertake to Publish: For he was Borne in Where Septini­us Seve­rus expi­red his last, and the place of his Se­pulture is known, at this day, by the Name of Sever­hill, neer York: And long after him, that vertuous Prince Constantius, surnamed Chlorus, (both of them Romane Emperors) likewise dyed: And where also Constantine the Great, his Sonne, was borne; and after his Fathers death had the Purple Robe cast upon him, and Proclaimed Emperour. And here Bellena, the Heathen Goddess of Warr had a Temple: Where also Probus Papinia [...]us, that famous Oracle of the Law. Prefissed, &c. as learned Authors, both Ancient and Moderne, do consent. YORK, that ancient City, on Tuesday the seventeenth day of March, in the year of our Lord 1564. 1564 and was the sixth Child of nineteen, borne of one Wife unto [Page 3] Mr. Richard Morton, a Reli­gious, Wise, and well-go­verned Gentleman (Mer­cer, and Alderman of that City) in the most happy and prosperous Raigne of Queen ELIZABETH of famous, and never dy­ing memory.

He was put to Schoole to Learne the English Ele­ments, in the same City, (so soon as his tender age permitted) where, as I have heard him say, were his School-fellows Mr. Thomas Cheeke (after Knighted by King JAMES) Grand­child [Page 4] to that famous Schol­ler VVho was School­master unto that Religious Prince King Ed­ward VI. This Sir John Cheeke was the honour of St. Johns Colledge in Cam­bridge, (as was his great Grand-Childe Mr. Henry Molle, Fellow of Kings College, lately deceased) both of them in their times, Publique Orators in that Ʋniversity. And this Mr. Henry Molle was Sonne unto Mr. John Molle, who dyed Prisoner in the Inquisition at Rome, after two and thirty years durance, for the Testimony of the true Protestant Religion. Quos honoris causâ memoro. Sir John Cheeke) and Guy Faux, who afterwards proved that famous and fatall incendiary in that never to be forgotten GƲN - POWDER - TREA­SON, which God Almigh­ty, through King JAMES His singular and Divine Wisdome, most happily prevented and subverted.

[Page 5]After a small time, he was sent to the Free School of Hallifax, in that County, under one Mr. Maud, then Schoolmaster there: And after a competent time, he was found fit for the Uni­versity; and was according­ly placed a Student in St. Johns College in Cam­bridge, whereof (then) was Master that incomparably learned Doctor William Whittakers, (whom but to Name is enough) unto whom, in a short time, he became known, and by him was encouraged in his [Page 6] Studies. He had two learn­ed Tutors, successively, Mr. Anthony Higgons, (long after Deane of the Colle­giate Church of Rippon in York-shire:) And Mr. Henry Nelson, afterwards Rector of Hougham, an un wearied Preacher of Gods Word there, where he lived to see this his Pupill to be Bishop of Duresine.

Now, after he had suffi­ently performed such Acts and Exercises, as by the Statutes of the House were required; he orderly took the degrees, first of Bache­lor, [Page 7] next of Master of Arts in the University, and was after that Elected Fellow of the College, (Doctor Whittakers being his wor­thy Fautor, and Promotor) and not long after he be­came Logick Lecturer of the University, which Of­fice he discharged to his exceeding commendation.

Being now of mature years (his own inclination being promoved by the ho­ly Spirit of God) he was admitted unto the Scared Order of Deacon, and the next year of Priest, by the [Page 8] right Reverend Father Richard Bishop of Peter­borow, in the year of our Lord, 1592. and 1593. And having continued in the University about five years longer, he was (by Gods All-seeing Provi­dence) called into his na­tive Country, for his pro­vident Father had (at that time) sought out and pro­cured a good Parsonage for him, called Long Marston, where he spent his time (as a good Pastor) in the dili­gent Preaching of Gods Word, unto his Parishioners [Page 9] there, and sometimes in other neighbouring places, especially where they most stood in need of Spirituall comfort and instruction.

In which Place, whiles he was Incumbent, he brought thither two learn­ed, and hopefull Seholers▪ Mr. John Price; and after him, Mr. Matthew Levet, sometimes his Pupills in St. Johns: the later after­wards, Prebendary and sub-Deane of the Collegiate Church of Rippon, a most painful and learned Preach­er, and a carefull Overseer [Page 10] of that Church and Flock committed to his Charge and Government, upo [...] whom afterwards, he colla­ted a good Prebend in th [...] Church of Durham, whe [...] afterwards Bishop there.

At this time, viz. 1598 1598 Mr. Morton was called upo [...] to take the Degree o [...] Batchelor in Divinity i [...] St. Johns College in Cam­bridge, when both by Preaching and Disputing in the Schooles ( pro gradu) he performed his task s [...] Learnedly (to his grea [...] commendation) that h [...] [Page 11] was not only held worthy of that Degree, but of an higher, which in due time followed.

In the year 1602. he 1602. was made choice of by the right Honourable Ralph Lord Eure, (who by Queen Elizabeth was selected Lord Embassadour to the Empe­rour, and King of Denmark) to attend on him for one of his Chaplains, Mr. Richard Crakanthorp, that exquisite Divine, was the other, (who long afterwards proceeded Professor of Divinity in Oxon, and among other [Page 12] learned Books which he Published, the last was, his Verè Cygnaea Cantio, that la­borious and elaborate An­swer to the Arch-bishop of Spalato (then a renegado in Religion) his Consilium Re­ditus, which he indigitated Defensio Ecclesiae Anglica­n [...]. In this travail, Master Morton having leave to pass further into high Germany, there he saw and saluted some of the Jesuites Colle­ges, and amongst sundry others, that at Mentz, where one Mulhusinius, a learned Jesuite, and he, fell into ac­quaintance, [Page 13] and had con­ference together in certain Points of Religion: Which Jesuite then gave him a lit­tle Printed Tract, with an Inscription under his own Hand, To Mr. Morton, which I have seen: And at Colen he also was known to, and conferred with another learned Jesuite, called Ni­colaus Serarius, who after­wards Though he did it obliquely, because he had mis-named Baronius the Cardinall a Jesuite, as though that were a disparagement unto him; albeit, Tolet and Bellarmine, (both of them Jesuites) were dispenced with by the Popes pleniporencie, to be tran­slated into Cardinalls, how strict soever the Rules of their Societie were against it. made mention of [Page 14] Mr. Morton in a book whic [...] he writ and Published, cal­ling it Minerval, agains [...] that miracle of Learning Josephus Scaliger.

In this Voyage, an [...] chiefly at Franckford upo [...] the Moene, he furnishe [...] himselfe with such variet [...] of learned books (whereo [...] many were Pontifican Wri­ters) as upon his retur [...] home became very useful to him for his Study, an [...] in the exaration of suc [...] Learned Works, (in Con­troversies agitated betwix us, and the Papists) whic [...] [Page 15] in succeeding time, he Writ and Published, even almost during Life.

Being returned into Eng­land, he became Chaplaine to the right Honorable and noble Lord Roger Earle of Rutland, on whom he some­times attended at Belvoir Castle, where (upon occasi­on) he Writ a Paper of Verses, which (as I remem­ber) concluded thus:

In the year 1603. fell 1603. [Page 16] that great and funebriou [...] sickness of the Plague at York, whereof some thou­sands dyed; but the poore [...] sort of the Infected, wer [...] turned out of the City, an [...] had Booths Erected fo [...] them on Hobmoor [...], neer un­to the City: For whos [...] comfort and reliefe, in tha [...] fatall extremity, Mr. Mor­ton often repaired unt [...] them from Marston to preac [...] unto them the Word o [...] God, and to Minister con­solation to their languish­ing soules; having witha [...] provisions of meat carrie [...] [Page 17] with him in Sacks, to re­lieve the poorest sort with­all. But, as often as he went thither, he suffered not any servant to attend him, but himselfe sadled and unsad­led his Horse, and had a private door-stead made through the wall of his stu­dy (being the utmost part of the house) for preventi­on, lest he might bring the contagion with him, and indanger his whole Family. This was one of the works of mercy and charity.

About this time he was made choice of by the [Page 18] right Honourable the Lord Sheffield, then Lord Presi­dent of York, to confe [...] and dispute, in points of Religion, with one Mr. Young a Popish Priest (then Prisoner in York Castle,) and one Mr. Stillington a Gentleman of that perswa­sion; which Conference was held before his Honour, and the Learned Counsell, in the Mannor house of York, where were also present many of the Knights and Gentry in the County. The main Point which was con­troverted, and disputed of, [Page 19] was, The Popes Infallability of judging: In the handling whereof, his Adversaries were so gravelled and con­founded, that Mr. Morton won the reputation of an able Divine, and acute Dis­putant. This Disputation was never hitherto Publi­shed, but is in their hands who may let it see the light now (especially) that both parties are defunct.

In the yeare 1604. he 1604. he look his Journey to Lon­don, where, by the incou­ [...]agement of the right Re­verend and vigilant Bishop▪ [Page 20] of London, Dr. [...] (who about this time w [...] translated thence to t [...] Arch-bishoprick of Cante [...] ­bury, he Published his fi [...] labour, intituled, Apolog [...] Catholicae, Pars I. and De [...] ­cated it to the said Arc [...] Bishop his noble Patro [...] And about this time, t [...] most Reverend Father God Whom Campian the Je [...]u­ite thus mentio­ [...]th, Qui nu [...]c do­minatur in conci­onibus, [...]. 5. Toby Matthew Lo [...] Arch-Bishop of York, th [...] famous Preacher, confe [...] on him a good Prebend that Metropolitical Chur [...] for his greater advanceme [...] and furtherance in Divi [...] Studies.

[Page 21]And now intending to goe forward with the se­cond Part of his Apologiae, he was for a time constrain­ed to supercede; for in the nick of this time, fell out that most horrible and exe­crable GUN-POWDER-TREASON, which yet (by the mercy of Almighty God) was even miracu­lously quashed, and over­throwne. Whereupon Mr. Morton Published a little Tract, which he instiled, Dangerous Positions and Pra­ctises for Rebellion; proving, (out of the Jesuites, and [Page 22] other Pontifician Authors, that they forged and main­tained those Positions of th [...] now Church of Rome, whic [...] were the grand work o [...] Treason and Rebellion agains [...] all Princes of Soveraigne Powers, who had renoun­ced and shaken off the Ro­mish yoake.

This being past, he Pub­lished 1606 the second Part o [...] his Apologiae Catholicae, A [...] [...]his tim [...] [...]e lo [...]ged [...] th [...] h [...]u [...]e of his h [...] ­nou [...]d Kinsma [...] S [...]r [...]ho­mas Va­visor Kni [...]ht-Ma [...]shall of [...]is Ma [...]esti [...]s most ho­norable houshold. An­no 1606. dedicating the same to King James of ever happy memory, a Prince o [...] incomparable knowledge in all kind of good Learn­ing [Page 23] But having now raised a nest of pernitious hornets about his ears, by the Pub­lishing of this Tractate (who manifested their perniti­ous malice and gall against our Church, by those viru­lent and stingie Pamphlets which they thrust out and dispersed:) This caused Mr. Morton, not long after, to write and Publish, His Full satisfaction concerning a double Romish iniquity, viz. Hainous Rebellion, and more then Heathenish Aequivocati­on: which Book was writ­ten in Answer to their Mo­derate [Page 24] Answer, (as they cal­led it) whereof Mr. Robert Parsons the Jesuite was the supposed Author. And this Book likewise, Mr. Morton dedicated unto King James, at which time, His Majesty was pleased to let him know, how that his adversary Mr. Parsons, was dead, and gaine to the Divill, as then was his Scottish Dialect.

In the year 1606. he took the Degree of Dr▪ in Divi­nity in Cambridge, where then disputed against him in the Schools, that learned, mellifluous, and dexterou [...] [Page 25] Disputant Dr. Thomas Play­fer, the Lady Margarets Pro­fessor in that famous Uni­versity, where Dr. Morton so learnedly and worthily carried, and demeaned him­selfe, in that Disputation, That the Professor perora­ted in his just prayse, these words, Laudent te Libri in portis, &c. In this Com­mencement, Doctor Morton Preached in St. Maries (pro gradu) upon that place of holy Scripture, Gen. 4. 16. Then Cain went out from the presence of the Lord, &c. At the same time, Dr. John [Page 26] Overall, the Reverend Deane of St. Pauls London, the Kings Professor of Divinity adorned him with the Scar­let Habit and Ring, which are used on those solemni­ties for compleating the degree of Dr. in Divinity.

Not long after, the Dean­ary of Glocester fell voyd by death, which (upon Arch-Bishop Bancrosts com­mendation to the King) was conferred upon Doctor Morton. About which sea­son, travelling toward Glou­cester by Oxon (the Act there being then kept) he was [Page 27] welcomed, and highly esteemed by that thrice learned and famous Doctor John Raynolds, President of Corpus Christi College, and with much Academicall Honour, incorporated Do­ctor in that famous Univer­sity; where he was likewise much honoured by many other Learned Doctors there, as, Dr. John King Deane of Christ Church, that most powerfull Preacher, (his ancient friend) after­wards the most worthy Bi­shop of London; Dr. Ayrey, the Learned Provost of [Page 28] Queenes College; Dr. Aigli­onbee, head of Harts hall, & with many other Learned and Religious Doctors.

At which time there dis­puted ( pro gradu Magistri) that hopefull Scholler Mr. Daniel Featley Fellow of Corpus Christi College, who carried himselfe so quickly, and learnedly in his dispu­ting, that he was very much admired and applauded (among others) by Dr. Mor­ton, for his singular ability in the performance of that exercise, as he most justly deserved. And indeed (af­terwards) [Page 29] he became a most able Divine, and singular disputant, as was well known to many that were able to judge; yea, and Dr. Smith (who by the Popes negative bounty, was after made the titular Bi­shop of Chalcedon) felt the weight of his arme, and of those great abilities where­with God had enabled him, when as Dr. Featley (being Chaplaine to Sir Th [...]mas Edmonds Knight, His Maje­sties Ambassador Legier to Henry IV▪ the French King) he disputed in Paris (be­fore [Page 30] a select Company of English, and divers others) with the said Dr. Smith in sundry Points of Religion, to the overthrow, and con­fusion of his Adversary. This Dr. Featley was ever after in high favour and esteeme with Dr. Morton, who was his great Benefa­ctor. But since, alas! is dead that learned Divine; but when, and where, po­sterity may with just griefe For not­with­standing bis true and known worth, he was exuted (in those late destructive times) of his Ecclesiasticall preform nis, and amongst many others, imprisoned in the Lord Pe­ters House in Aldersgate London, where falling very sick; at last, he had leave to take fresh Aire in the Country, where after a short time. be expired. record. Yet in testimony [Page 31] of his singular love, and the Reverend Affection which he bare to Dr. Mor­ton, he wrote and Published (among many other elabo­rate Pieces) a learned book, which he dedicated to Dr. Morton, then Bishop of Dur­ham.

Whilst Dr. Morton was Deane of Glocester, it pleased the Right Honorable the Lord Eure, Lord President of Wales, to nominate and assume him to be one of his Majesties Councell for the Mar [...]hes of Wales; which dignity he enjoyed, whilst [Page 32] Deane there; in which Deanary succeeded him, that most Learned Divine and Writer Dr. Richard Field.

Now within three years, viz. 1609. was vacant the Deanary of Winton, by the preferment of Dr. George Abbot from that Deanary, to the Bishoprick of Coventry and Leichfeild. To the which Deanary he was de­signed by the Kings most gracious favour, with the congratulation and furthe­rance of his best friends in Court, especially of that [Page 33] incomparably Learned Pre­late Dr. Lancelot Andrewes, then Bishop of Elie, His Majesties great Almoner. And about this very season Dr. Sibrandus Lubbertus, Professor of Divinity at Franckar in West Friesland, writ a learned Tractate in Latine against the Arminian Faction, then much prevail­ing in the Netherlands; which Book he inscribed to Dr. Morton Deane of Winton: for which honor, the Deane returned him many thanks in a Latine Epistle, where­in he refuted those hetero­dox [Page 34] Opinions, which we [...] then on foot.

About this time, he wri [...] that elaborate and learned work, which he intituled The Appeale; And almost at the same time, was vent­ed by Mr. Brierley Priest his Book called, The Prote­ssants Apologie; but know [...] it was, that he had plowe [...] with Deane Morton's Heife [...] (or Book) then in the Press at London: yet was he as quick­ly answered by the Deane, (at the same time) so much as especially concerned the doctrinall Part thereof.

[Page 35]This taske, of Writing this last Book, was imposed on him by that vigilant Prelate Arch Bishop Ban­croft; and the examinati­on of the testimonies of the Authors quoted in his Appeale, was committed unto Mr. Thomas James, (that indesa [...]igable and la­borious Keeper of the pub­lique and famous Library in Oxon) and to sundry other Learned Divines of that University: but was afterwards finished in his private Library in the Deanary house of St. Pauls [Page 36] London, where he then re­ [...]ided, Dr. Overall his reve­ [...]end friend being Deane there. At which time, he was sought out and ac­quainted with that truely noble and bountiful Knight Sir George Morton of Dorcet­shire, (his faithfull friend and Couzin) descended of the most venerable Family of Arch Bishop Morton, who was in his time famous for the happy uniting of the two Royall Houses of York and Lancaster.

Neer unto this year 1609. 1609. Dr. Sntcliffe the Dean [Page 37] of Exceter begun the founding of a College neer Chelsey in Middlesex, which was to consist of a certain number of Fellows to be imployed (chiefly for the answering of such Books as the Popish Priests should disperse, for the impugning of the Orthodox, and true Religion established in the Church of England.) Of which Fellows, the first named were, Dr. John Overall Dean of St. Pauls London, Dr. Thomas Morton Dean of Winton, Dr. Ri­chard Field Dean of Glouce­ster, [Page 38] &c. with other learned and religious Divines Which College was to be indowed by his Majesty with good Lands in Chelsey (then in reversion) after a few years; and with four [...] Farmes in Devon, which Dr. Sutcliffe gave, to the value of 300 li. per Annum besides other indowments conferred thereupon by the said Dean Sutcliffe, for that Religious use. Yet for the advancement of that pious work, it was further held necessary, to obtain His Majesties gracious favour [Page 39] for the deriving and con­ducting of a Streame of Water forth of the River of Lee, unto the Easterne Parts of the City of Lon­don, for the behoof of the Inhabitants there dwel­ling, and for the benefit and furtherance of that pi­ous worke. Whereupon those Fellows agreed on Dr. Morton, to make a La­tine Oration to His Maje­sty, Wherein (among other things, as I remem­ber) he alluded unto that [...]lace▪ Gen. 1. Quando Deus sundavit terram super aquas. which he performed at Theobalds in the Privie Chamber there. Which [Page 40] Speech being ended, to Hi [...] Majesties great content; he was graciously pleased to grant their most humble re­quest; & rising up from his Chaire, he openly declared, That that College should go [...] forwards, &c. such then was the Judgement and resolu­tion of that pious and ju­dicious King.

Neer unto this season, 1610▪ Anno 1610. was held the Convocation at St. Pauls Lon­don of the chief Divines in the Province of Canterbury, when, and where, Deane Morton was chosen to Preach [Page 41] the Concio ad Clerum in St. Pauls Church, whose Text was, Mat. 15. 13. Vos estis salterrae: by the Preaching whereof, he obtained such favour and estimation, that the Proloeutors place in the ensuing Synod, was by com­mon suffrage cast upon him. But he modestly declined it (on purpose) that a reve­rend friend of his might be adorned with that dig­nity.

And about the same time, there was a great fear fell upon the Inhabi­tants dwelling under the [Page 42] South side of the Cathe­drall Church of St. Paul [...] London, which was to be repaired à fundamentis; and that therefore (upon King James his command) all their houses were to be pul­led down from the East unto the West end of the said Church; which moti­on did so amaze and terrifie the Trunk makers, & other Tradesmen, whose mee [...] lively-hood consisted in their Trades and Houses that (in that wofull case) they repaired unto Dea [...] Morton, then lodging in the [Page 43] Deanary of St. Pauls, and earnestly besought him to take their lamentable con­dition into his Christian thoughts, and to be a means unto His Majesty to revers that wofull doome. Whereupon the Dean took the boldness on him to ad­dress a Letter to His sacred Majesty, wherein he most humbly beseeched Him to take their miserable estates into His Majesties most pious and Princely conside­ration, who were the living Temples of the holy Ghost. What effect that Letter [Page 44] took, I know not; this I am assured of, that those Houses stood unmoved; yet the repairs of that Ca­thedrall advanced; untill the late irreparable fire Anno Dom. 1665. which destroyed, and consumed that ancient City of Lond­don, together with that ve­nerable Pile, the Cathe­drall Church there.

A little before this time came out of France that lampe of learning, both di­vine and humane, Monsieur Isaac Causabon, who at his first arrivall was lodged in [Page 45] the Deanary of St. Paule, (where Dean Morton then sojourned) with whom was contracted that firm friend­ship, and community of Studies betwixt him and Dean Morton, which (du­ring life) was never inter­rupted. This Phoenix of learning, being after de­ceased; his true friend Dr. Morton (being then Bishop of Duresme) did at his own charge, (in memory of one so dear, learned, and loving a friend) erect that Marble Monument over his place of Sepulture in the South [Page 46] Isle of St. Peters Church in Westminster, with Verses thereon affixed on the Tombe, which were com­posed by Dr. Thomas Goad, that most learned and fa­mous Divine.

And here I must make mention of Dr. Abrahamus Scultetus, who ( Anno Dom. 1612.) 1612 came in to England, Chaplaine to the most Il­lustrious Prince and Pals­grave Frederick Elector; and also Monsieur Deodati, the learned Professor of Divinity at Genevah, and Mousieur Peter du Mouline, [Page 47] that famous Preacher and Writer (whom His Majesty made Canon of Canterbury) with sundry others, who much rejoyced in Dean [...] Morton's acquaintance, be­twixt whom was maintain­ed a friendly correspon­dence (during life) respe­ctively.

About this time, by King James his appointment, Dr. Morton answered a book which was Written by Car­dinall Bellarmine, dedicated to the Prince of Poland, and Intituled, De Officio Princi­pis Christiani: which An­swer [Page 48] Dean Morton dedica­ted to our most noble Prince Charles, Intituled, Causa Regia; and (for the Princes use) it was consigned into the hands of Mr. Murray his Highness Tutor, who pro­mised it should be the Prin­ces Taske, to reade over in then ensuing progress.

During the time of his continuance in this Deanary of Winton, he was (amongst many others) most inti­mate with, and beloved of Dr. Arthur Lake, Master of St. Crosse neer Winchester, a reverend and religious Di­vine, [Page 49] (afterwards Bishop of Bath and Wells,) Dr. John Harmar the learned Warden of Winchester College, Dr. Ni­cholas Love, then School­master, after Warden there; and other worthy Divines.

At his comming from Winton, he Preached a Ser­mon in the Preached a Ser­mon in the Cathedrall Church there (when he took his leave of that Learned and Pious Assem­bly) upon those words of Samuel, (1 S [...]. 12. 3.) Whose Oxe have I taken? or whose Asse have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom [Page 50] have I oppressed? or o [...] whose hand have I taken any bribe to blind mine eyes therewith?

And having now con­tinued about nine year [...] Dean of Winton, it pleased His sacred Majesty, to make choice of him to Govern [...] the See and Bishoprick o [...] Chester, (Anno Dom. 1610.) being at that time much infested by perverse Non­conformist [...] Ministers. Bu [...] this designation and nomi­nation of him came by a [...] [...], (as he called i [...]) in a Letter which he wri [...] [Page 51] to one he then favoured, in these very words; I see it hath pleased God by his providence, not to suffer m [...] to remain in the Dale, where­in I could willingly have spent my dayes (had there not been an [...] in it,) and to set me upon an Hill, (I pray God) as a true light for the good of soules, &c. For as in his former digni­ties, he was most free from [...]mbitious prolling and seeking; so was he as in­nocent from the touch of expecting, or so much as desiring those preferments [Page 52] which after followed, and were most freely conferred on him by those two most gracious Princes, King James, and King Charles hi [...] Sonne.

But when he stood designed B ^p. of Chester, agreat O [...] (who shall here be nameless) cast an undeserved [...] spersion upon Dean Mori [...] unto the King, viz. Th [...] he was not fit to be a Bishop for that he had spoyled one [...] the best Deanaries in England, &c. Which false c [...] lumny, was cast as a block in the way of his advancement [Page 53] to a Bishoprick: wherewith being made ac­quainted, he was of neces­sity to clear himselfe of so foule, and undeserved an aspersion; which he did, by communicating the same unto his Brethren of the Chapter of Winton; who unanimously testified un­der their Hands and Seales, That Doctor Morton had been the best Dean that ever had been in their times: And some of them were very old men, and had long enjoyed their Dignities in that Cathedrall Church; [Page 54] as Mr. Browne, Mr. Barlow, Mr. Harward, &c.

So then this black cloud of Obloquy being dispel­led, he was Consecrated Bishop of Chester at Lam­beth in the Province o [...] Canterbury, by delegation from the Arch-Bishop of York, in whose Province Chester is; where were pre­sent many Noble Men, and Gentlemen of the Court but chiefly, a Noble Ma [...] of Poland, who had the education of Prince Rodzi­vils Sonne (thither invi­ted) who very much admi­red [Page 55] the solemnity of the Ordination of the Bishops in England, and the receiving of the blessed Sacrament, (whereof they then were partakers) as it was Admi­nistred according to the Forme of the Church of England.

And not long after, be­ing recovered of a violent Fever, which took him at Clayhall in Essex, the House of that Honorable Knight Sir Christopher Hatton (his most loving and deare friend) he prepared for his Journey into Cheshire, and [Page 56] advanced with his own re­tinew towards that Coun­try, but was encountred and met on the way to the City of Chester, by so grand a number of the best Knights and Gentlemen of that County Palatine, with their attendants, and that multitude of Plebeyans, thronging and rejoycing at the receipt of their new Bishop, that the like hath scarce been seen there, and perhaps in few places else where.

After a small time of his settlement there, like [Page 57] a true Bishop, (and one mindfull of what he was sent for) he convented the Non-conformist Ministers, and called on them to shew the Reasons of their dissent­ing from the Orders and Discipline of the Church; and told them, That his purpose was, to conferr with them publickly, to reduce them to conformity with the Church of England. At which time those Ministers insisted on those three Points: First, Crosse Or ra­ther af­ter Bap­tisme, as indeed it is. in Baptise. Secondly, Kneel­ing at the receiving of the [Page 58] Lords Supper. Thirdly, Th [...] Surplice, &c. In which con­ference he argued with them very zealously, and endeavoured by many Ar­guments to reduce the [...] to conformity with the Church of England; but i [...] the end, fell short of hi [...] pious expectation. Yet no prevailing with those re­fractory Ministers; not with­standing, he wrought great work, by Gods mo [...] gracious hand and ass [...] ­stance, (yea, neer the ve [...] same time) by reclaimin [...] and reducing many of t [...] [Page 59] Lancashire Recusants, and in bringing them home to the true Church, through his industrious vigilance.

And not long after, he Writ and Published a Rela­tion of that Conference, which was inscribed, The three innocent Ceremonies; which Book long after (he being Bishop of Coventry and Leichfeild) was im­pugned by one Mr. Ames, (as was conceived) but most learnedly answered and defended by Dr. John Burges Parson of Sutton Cobfeild in Warr▪. after that [Page 60] Doctor Morton had been many years Bishop of Co­ventry and Leichfeild.

About this time 1617 ( viz. Anno 1617.) the Kings Majesty returned out of his Progress from Scotland, and passed through Lanca­shire, where he was Peti­tioned by the Plebeyans of that County, for Recreation to be allowed on the Lords day; which was according­ly gratiously granted by His Majesty. Whereupon, they growing insolent, and being incouraged and heartened by some Gentle­men [Page 61] who were Popish Re­cusants, they made ill use of the Kings gracious cle­mency; and thereupon Bi­shop Morton made his hum­ble address unto His Maje­sty, and acquainted him with sundry particulars of their abuse of His well­meant gracious favour: Whereupon it pleased His Majesty, to command the Bishop, to adde what cauti­ons and restrictions he thought fit to be inserted into His Majesties Declara­tion for that purpose, which was accordingly done, viz. [Page 62] That they should have no li­berty for recreation till after Evening Prayer: That they should have no Beare-baiting nor any such unlawfull sports: And that no Recusant, who came not to Morning and Eve­ning Prayers, should be capa­ble of such His Royall indul­gence at all, &c.

Having now resided to­wards three years in that Bishoprick, it pleased the Royall Majesty of King James, to cause him to be translated to the See of Coventry and Leichfeild, where he succeeded that [Page 63] profound Doctor John Ove­rall, who was newly re­moved thence to the Bi­shoprick of Norwich, in the year of our Lord 1618. 1618

And in the Bishoprick of Chester succeeded him, Dr. John Bridgeman, one of the famous Preachers of his time; the more to be honored, because it pleased God to bless him with a Sonne, Sir Orlando Bridge­man Knight, now Lord Keeper of the Great Seale of England; which High Place may he long enjoy for the good of this Kingdom, and [Page 64] honour of the Married Clergy.

In the time of his In­cumbence in the Bishoprick of Coventry and Leichfeild, he was acquinted with that grave and learned Scholler Marcus Antonius de Domi­nis, late Arch-Bishop of Spalato in Dalmatia, Saint Hierome's Countrey-man, (as he often used to call himselfe) who had renoun­ced Popery, and passed over into England, to draw the fresh and pure Ayre of Christs true Religion: [Page 65] which yet some few years after, The most infamous Eccboli­us of our times; whose Corps were af­terwards burned at Rome for a Relaps. he most wretchedly deserted in hope of higher preferment at Rome, upon the assurance which he built of his Quondam School­fellows Election to the Pa­pacy, by the name of Gre­gory the fifteenth. But this Pope was quickly rid out of the way, and another Pharaoh succeeded, who knew not this Joseph. But his change of Religion was the more to be won­dred at, for that by His Majesties gracious bounty [Page 66] he had been These, though competent Prefer­ments, could not allay, or quench his sacred thirst: for I have seen the Copy of a Letter, (which was shewed unto me by D [...]. Bal [...]an­quall, his successour in the Savoy,) in which it appeared, That he became a Suit [...]r unto King. James for the Arch-Bishoprick of York, then rumored to be voyd, by the death of Doctor Toby Matthew the Arch-Bishop there; though be happily outlived tha [...] [...]. preferred to the Deanary of Windsor, and the Mastership of the Savoy, with the Rectory of Ilsworth, and was yearly presented by many of the Nobility, and Bishops of this Kingdom, with sundry rich gifts in Plate, and other costly accoutre­ments. All which not with­standing, in the end he de­serted the Church of Eng­land: [Page 67] Yet upon a specious pretence, forsooth, (as he gave it out) of Reconciling the Church of England, with the Church of Rome.

Whereupon, about the same time, and on this ve­ry occasion, fell out the following passage betwixt him, and Bishop Morton: For being asked by the said Bishop thus: Domine, quid tibi in animo est, convertere Papam? Etiam, Conclave Papale? Spal. Quidni, an existimas eos esse Diabolos, ut non possint converti? Episc. Coven. Minime Domine, ne [...] [Page 68] puto Dominum Spalatensem esse De [...]m, qui hoc prestare possit. Nostine Domine, Ca­nones istos Conc'. Tridentini [...] Spalat. Imò novi, & aus [...] sum tibi dicere, Millies mille esse in Italia, qui fidem nul­lam huic Concilio adhibent. This passage is worth the translating: The Bishop of Leichfeild asked him, What my Lord, is it your purpose to convert the Pope? Yea, and the Papal Conclave to, Spal. And why not? doe you think them to be Devils, that they cannot be conver­ted? Bishop Leichfeild, No, [Page 69] my Lord, nor doe I think my Lord of Spalato to be a God, who is abl [...] to performe so much. Doe you know, my Lord, those Canons in the Council of Trent? Spal. Yea, I know them well, and I dare boldly say, that there be many thousands of Italy who give no Faith to this Council, &c. However this passed, away he went, and since gone, he would be gone: he was formerly ba­nished, and commanded a­way out of England by the Kings strict command. But being arived at Rome, the [Page 70] case was altered, the for­iner Pope, his friend, being dead; and because he did not, or rather, could not answer the Books, or ra­ther the authorities there­in, quoted out of the an­tient Fathers, which he had Published and Printed at London, De Repub. Chri­stiana, and others, he found the just guerdon of his re­volt: for it was adjudged in the Holy Office, (as they call the Inquisition) that his Corps, being first strang­led in the Castle of St. An­g [...] ▪ should be burned in [Page 71] Campo Flori: yet had he been fairely premonished and minded hereof by our Bishop, who writ a large and learned Epistle Now ready for the Pross▪ after long and gr [...]at desiring the [...]eof▪ unto him in Latine a little be­fore his departure, which was consigned into his hands by the Writer here­of; wherein, as a true Pro­phet, he warned him of that which came after to passe, viz. His Treatment at Rome: Yet notwith­standing, upon the receipt of that Letter, the Arch-Bishop testified his friendly respects unto our Bishop at [Page 72] the farewell of the bear­er, in these very words, Salutes millies mille di [...] as Do­mino t [...]o nomine meo. It was often in h [...] mouth, Ego▪ mo­riar Ar­chiepis­copus Spala­ [...]ens [...]s▪

During the time of his Government of this large Dioces of Coventry and Leiehfeild, there hapned a Boy of the Village of Bil­son neer Wolverhampton in the County of Stafford, called George Purie, who was seduced by the Po­pish Priests to become a Demoniack (which thing he did, as they tutored him) whom after a small season, [Page 73] they a Gods name must dispossess. But yet all their working, and fine devises, were to very small, or no purpose; for the Devill had so wrought with the The Devill had steel­ed his heart. I [...] was [...]i [...] own wor [...] and ex­pression in his Confessi­on after▪ wards. Boy, that he accused a Woman, and she a Papist, for be­witching him: whereup­on, she was committed to the County Goale at Staf­ford, and this Boy was brought to the Assizes to confront her: where, be­fore the Judges of Assize, this Boy, albeit hood­winckt, would seem to know of the woman Priso­ner [Page 74] her comming to the Barr, which he did, as after­wards he confessed, by the jingling of her Chains, and divers strange prancks he there played, in the face of the country as a Demoniack, or person possessed, so that at the last, he was com­mitted, and recommend­ed by the learned Judg­es of Assize unto Dr. Mor­ton, Bishop of the Diocess, (being then one of His Ma­jesties Justices of the Peace) who brought him unto Eccleshal Castle, where he then resided; and after a [Page 75] competent time, found him to be a cunning Impo­ster. Which things, and many moe, were layed open to Publick view, in a Book Intituled, The Boy of Bilson. But afterwards, he much detested, and loathed the former cousening cheats, and was bound Apprentice in Bristol.

How this Bishop spent his time in that Bishoprick of Coventry and Leichfeild, his continuall Labors testi­fie, viz. chiefly in Preach­ing the Word of God; part­ly in Writing Books profi­table [Page 76] to the Church of God; partly in Conference with Recusants, and Cate­chizing of his own Family weekly, &c. But for his free Hospitality, both at Eccleshall and Leichfeild, and his continuall relieving of the poor; let them te­stifie who were eye-witnes­ses, of which many are fallen asleep, and perhaps, some remain to this day.

Whiles he was Bishop here, he had sundry learned men for his Chaplains, espe­cially that Reverend and Pious man of God Doctor [Page 77] Ralph Brownrigg, on whom he collated the Arch-dea­conry of Coventry (when Bishop of Leichfeild) and afterwards a good Prebend in the Cathedrall Church of Durham; which digni­ties His Royall Majesty King Charles did Crowne with the Bishoprick of Ex­eter, Mr. Stephen Haxbie, and Mr. George Gippes, both fellows of St. Johns in Cambridge, and Mr. Isaac Basire, with some others, on whom he freely bestow­ed such spirituall prefer­ments as fell in his Patro­nage.

[Page 78]Here I must not forget that blessed Saint of God, Mr. George Canner, a blinde young man (for blinde he came into the world) borne in the County of Lancaster, whom (with his Unckle, who had the tuition of him) this Bishop maintain­ed both at the Grammer Schoole in Chester, when Bishop there, and after in the University, till he be­came Batchelor of Arts in the University of Cam­bridge, where he proved an excellent proficient: And after Orders taken, he [Page 79] placed him Curate at Clif­ton Canvile in Stafford-shire, (when he was Bishop of Leichfeild) where he dis­charged that sacred Functi­on, by his diligent Preach­ing, even unto admiration; for the book of Common Prayer (as the Church of England requireth and en­joyneth) he could repeat by heart, and understand the Rubrick sufficiently. As for the Chapters in the Old and New Testament, (which were to be Read to the Congregation) he had them perfectly by heart, by [Page 80] his Unckles twice Reading them over unto him: For the Administration of the blessed Sacrament of Bap­tisme, and the Lords Supper, he medled not therewith, but had them discharged by another neighbouring Minister. As for his Diet, it was course, small, and not costly, for he never exceed­ed bread, butter, and cheese; no kind of flesh meat would goe down with him, nor could he indeed, digest it. His conversation was innocent, modest, chast, and spotless, whom Al­mighty [Page 81] God translated hence (being but young in years, about 26.) unto his heavenly Kingdom of glo­ry. His dying words were these, Lord take from me these raggs of mortality, and cloth me with thy robes of im­mortality.

From this Bishoprick of Coventry and Leichfeild (An­no 1633.) 1633 it pleased the Royall Majesty of King Charles the first, to preferr him to the dignity of the Episcopall See of Duresme, to which Bishoprick (be­fore the Conquest) was [Page 82] united the Prerogative of a County Palatine. And here with what Integrity, Ju­stice, Temperance, and other Christian vertues, (especially his liberall and free composition with his Tenants, whereof many in­stances might be given, if need were) I had rather the late memory of him should speak, who is yet living in a private and con­tented estate (after the Apostles diet, Having mea [...] and drink, &c.) and after his late injurious ejection out of that plentifull Bi­shoprick [Page 83] in a very old age, [...] s [...] he was then aged: but he dy­ [...]d, Anno 1659. Aetatis 95. which is 93. in this pre­sent yeare of our Lord, 1657. and was never Mar­ried, but hath led a single, and painfull life.

He hath had, being Bi­shop of Duresme, sundry eminent Schollers for his domestick Chaplains, as Dr. Joseph Nayler (whom God hath newly translated) on whom he collated the rich Rectory of Sedgefeild, and a Prebend in the Ca­thedrall Church of Du­resme: Mr. John Johnson, a Londoner borne, a godly, [Page 84] learned, and faithfull Preacher of the Word of God (with whom he lives in eternall blessedness) whom he constituted to the Rectory of Bishop Weremouth; and also Mr. William Flathers, long since departed; Dr. Ferne, Lately Master of T [...]ini [...]y College in Cam­bridge: Deane of Ely; and [...]ly, Bi­shop of C [...]ester, by King Charles [...]1. his [...]. Since [...] to God. a re­verend and learned Divine, as his excellent Treatises Writ and Published in these late sad times doe suffici­ently speak him; Mr. Evers Gower, since departed, on whom he collated the Re­ctory of Stanhopp, and Arch­deaconry of Northumberland; [Page 85] as also, the afore-named Dr. Isaac Basier, whom he Ordained Deacon, and after that Priest, when Bishop of Leichfeild; and being tran­slated to Duresme, he col­lated on him the fore-na­med Rectory of Stanhopp, with a good Prebend in the Cathedrall Church of Du­resme, and the Archdeaconry of Northumberland. Of this learned Gentleman much might be said, who is living still, though far remote, for in these late heavy and do­lorous times, he was forced to sit down, yet with ho­nor, [Page 86] (after more then his Ʋlissian Travails in three parts of the known world) Professor of Divinity at Alba Julia in Transilvania But now, af­ter 16. years pe­regrinati­on, he is returned home, in the halcy­on dayes of King Charles II. his auspicious and happy reigne, enjoying his former prefer­ments. As also Mr. Richard Wrench Batchelor in Divinity, som­times Fellow of St. Johns in Cambridge: And lastly, Dr. John Barwick, first Dean of Durham, after that, of St. Pauls London, lately deceased.

This Bishop was such an indefatigable Student, and such a constant Heluo libro­rum, that whether he pas­sed by Water, or rid on [Page 87] Horseback (as he used in his private estate) or tra­velling in his Coach, (af­ter that he had obtained greater preferments) he had alwayes some choice and usefull book, which he either read himselfe, or els caused a Chaplaine, or his Amanuensis to reade unto him, who attended on him Journying. And very sel­dome, or never, did he goe to his bed, but his devoti­ons ended in publique with his Family, and afterwards more privately by himself; his bed-chamber servants, [Page 88] who had been usually Uni­versity Schollers, continued their tasks in reading some other pious books, or some Church History unto him, till such time as acceptable sleep stole upon him, and so relieved and discharged them of that duty. And when he did sleep, it was very moderate, or rather small, for (as I have said) he either continued read­ing himself, or others read­ing unto him, till late at night, and after some few houres repose, he was al­wayes ready to fall on his [Page 89] Study afresh with early Aurora.

For an example of his Piety, and generall care which he took in his Dio­cess, for the fuller in­structing of Children in the Grounds of Religion, he caused many thousands of Catechismes (according to that forme which is pre­scribed in the Book of Common Prayer) to be Printed at his own charge, and to be dispersed in the several Deanaries and Arch­deaconries of the Diocesses where he had been Bishop, [Page 90] which he commanded his (respective) Chancellors, Re­gisters, and other Ecclesi­asticall Officers, in their pla­ces, to distribute in every Parish; and like wise admo­nished the severall Mini­sters, to be diligent and carefull in the due Cate­chising of their youth, ac­cording to that Forme.

For his manner of Lodg­ing, Diet, and Study-gar­ments, they might have been (if you will) of ano­ther Anthony, for the never could endure a soft, much less a downe bed, but ei­ther [Page 91] a Matress, or a single Quilt, which was his usuall lodging. His Study▪ gowne was sometimes of a course black hairy rugg: and his constant Diet (when not visited by strangers) was one meale a day through almost the whole course of his life; which in his mid­dle age, and before he was Bishop, was usually a Sup­per; in his declining age, and after he was Bishop, usually a Dinner, and that but a bare and slender one to himself, though bounti­full, and plentifull to all [Page 92] others his Commensals. He very seldome, or never drunk strong drink; and wine most rarely, and that in a very small quantity, as perhaps might warme his mouth, but scarcely his stomach, for his health be­ing constantly good, and his bodily Sa [...] that [...]h [...]n [...]e was Bi­shop of Chester [...]e was [...]i [...]c [...]ed with the [...]i [...] of th [...] Stone, v [...]yding one, and but [...] ▪ [...] at that time his sister Mistris Joan Rose prepa [...] him a distilled drink▪ which gave him present ease, [...] (by [...]ods blessing) did remedy that Ma [...]a [...]y, so the [...]ster, [...]e was scarce ever troubled therewith. infirmities few or little, (indeed his abste­miousness was very great) and (I beleive) this later [Page 93] was a great preserver of the former.

I might further tell you, That he never Purchased one foot of Land (what [...] he sold) nor other temporall Possession in all his long life, notwithstand­ing his plentifull incomes; but as his Revenues in­creased, so were they ex­pended (as I have formerly noted) in Hospitable, cha­ritable, and other Christi­an uses; which thing may partly appear by his being so bare, and unprovided at the beginning of the late [Page 94] turbulent and trayterous times; so that when he was committed under the black Rodd (for protesting against those uncivill tumults then on foot) he had scarcely wherewith to defrey the Fees and Charges of his Confinement, which is the less to be wondred at, that he was not so plentifull in his Purse, and the rather, considering the great and extraordinary charges which he was put to, by the fre­quent entertainment of Scottish Lords, and others who Posted too and fro, [Page 95] especially about the time of the Scottish Insurrection, Durham being in their Northern Road, Ah! nimi­um vicina Scotis Dunelmia.

He never Ordained any for Priests and Deacons, (which he commonly did at the foure Ordinations) but such as were Graduates in the University (or other­wise well qualified in good Learning:) And for a try­all of their Parts, he al­wayes appointed a set time to examine them in Uni­versity Learning; but chiefly in Points of Divini­ty; [Page 96] and in this he was very exact, by making them an­swer Syllogistically, accord­ing to their abilities. And he trusted not his own Chaplains in this sacred business, though otherwise, very able and learned Di­vines.

He never conferred any Benefice, or Spirituall Pre­ferment, chiefly whiles he was Bishop of Duresme, (being a most free and bountifull Patron) but on his own learned Chaplains, except three onely, which were commended unto him [Page 97] by King Charles I. his sa­cred Majesty, viz. Mr. John Weemes, that learned Wri­ter in Morall Divinity, Mr. Anthony Maxton, both which were made Prebendaries of the Cathedrall Church of Duresme, and Mr. Clappur­ton, being three Scotch men, and able Schollers.

For his Judgement of the due deserts of Learn­ing, take one instance; when he was Deane of Glo­cester, and Mr. John Donne had cast himselfe into a Sea of misery, by the marriage of the Daughter of Sir [Page 98] George Moore Knight, where­by he was exuted of his Secretaries place under the Lord Chancellor Egerton, and had spent most of his own means in the pursuit of his said marriage, where­by he was brought to a low ebb and debility in his Estate; and knowing no wayes, or means whereby he could subsist, Children especially encreasing year­ly; then did Deane Morton earnestly and seriously move him to take the holy Ministery on him, whereby the better to support and [Page 99] maintain that Charge; and for his better incourage­ment, he willingly and freely offered to resigne unto him the Rectory of Long Marston in York-shire, being of the yearly value (plus minus) of two hun­dred pounds per Annum; yet to this friendly motion he would not (then) give his assent, but put it by, in hope (as it should seem) of some other preferment, for which he thought himselfe more fit.

And long after, the said Mr. Donne, having grapled [Page 100] with many extremities at home, he passed over into France, where he gave him­self to the Study of the Laws: And from Amiens, (as I remember) he writ a Letter to his alwayes true friend Deane Morton, where­in he requested his advice, Whether taking the De­gree of a Doctor in that Profession of the Laws, it might not be conducible and advantagious unto him to Practice at home in the Arches London. Unto whom the Deane then returned him answer, That in his [Page 101] Judgement, he thought the Ministry in the Church of God would be safer, and fitter for him: Whereupon he desisted from further prosecution of those Stu­dies.

For doubtless the holy Spirit had the greatest stroak and power to in­cline, and draw him to that sacred Profession: For my selfe have long since seen his Picture in a dear friends Chamber of his in Lincolnes Inne, all envelloped with a darkish shadow, his face & feature hardly discernable, [Page 102] with this ejaculation and wish written thereon; Do­mine illumina tenebras meas: which long after was really accomplished, when (by King James his weighty and powerfull perswasions) he took holy Orders at the hands of the right Reve­rend Father John Lord Bi­shop of London, and so be­came a learned and assidu­ous Preacher. Whereupon His gracious Majesty King James bestowed the Dean­ary of St. Pauls London up­on him: where what pro­fitable pains he took, and [Page 103] els where, the large Book of his Sermons, and other Learned Labors, (which are Published, both before, and after he had been Dean) do most sufficiently attest and demonstrate.

For a Close, concerning this Learned Gentleman, I will add one instance of his ripe and sudden wit, For at one time when Bishop Mor­ton gave him a good quan­tity of Gold (then a use­full token) saying, Here Mr. Donne, take this, Gold is restorative: He presently answered, Sir, I doubt I shall [Page 104] never restore it back again: and I am assured that he never did.

This Bishop Morton was a great benefactor to Saint Johns College in Cambridge, (where sometimes he had been Fellow) and bestow­ed many hundreds of pounds in Books for the adorning and augmenting of that their faire Library, which Dr. Williams Bishop of Lincolne, and Lord Keeper of the Great Seale of England, sometimes Fellow there, had Founded. He built also out of an old decayed [Page 105] Chappell at Bishop Auck­land, a fair Grammar School, and endowed the Master thereof with 24. pounds per Annum for ever: Other things he purposed to have done, as the enlarging of the old Market Place; and the erecting a new Market Crosse in the Pavement at York, (near to which he was born,) but was pre­vented by the late wofull and destructive times: but God would accept of his smal offerings, as he did the poor Widdows Mite.

He converted sundry [Page 106] Persons (in his time) from the Popish Religion, and by Gods grace, brought them to the true Church of Eng­land; amongst which was the Lady Cholmeley, Wife to Sir Henry Cholmeley Knight When he was Bi­shop of Chester, he [...]r [...]ed [...]er.: So Mr. Redmaine a Popish Priest, afterwards Viccar and Preacher at Con­gleton in Cheshire: So Mr. Theophilus Higgons, who after was a learned Preach­er, and Rector of Hunton in Kent. Mr. Toby Swinburn [...], then lately returned from the English College at Rome, afterwards created Doctor [Page 107] of the Laws at Oxon, and in these late unhappy times, deprived of his life, whose death was chiefly effected by their cruell imprison­ment of him, after that he had received many deep, and desperate wounds in the battle at Newbery for the affection and loyalty which he did bear to His late Majesty Charles I. Al­so a Reverend Bishop now living, (but here shall be nameless:) Also Mr. Tho­mas Hulse Gentleman: Mr. Mathew, and sundry others.

[Page 108]He was alwayes very be­neficiall and bountifull to the poor, wheresoever he lived or came; so that as it pleased God to devest him of those ample means, which sometimes he had to dispose of, and to doe good on all occasions; so took he timely order (during al­most his whole life) to ero­gate and bestow the mean [...] which God lent him, to the best ends, which was, for the maintenance of the poor of all sorts, viz, [...] the place where he resided, or by the way where [...] [Page 109] travelled, or poor Schol­lers in the University, to many of whom he gave yearly Stipends; poor stran­gers and Travellers, to whom his Purse was always open. And in the Bishop­prick of Duresme, he gave, (besides his dayly Almes to the poor at the Castle­gate) so many Gowns of blew Cloth to certain poor men, as he had been Bishop of Durham, with their diet in the Hall foure dayes in the week.

For example of his libe­rall mind, and the con­tempt [Page 110] of worldly wealth (besides that single in­stance above rehe [...]rsed; when he was leaving the Deanary of Winton) he forgave unto one Mis. Place of Hurworth near the River of Teise (whose husband unhappily made a way himself (as they spake) his whole Estate (being forfeited to the Bi­shop as Count Palatine) which was valued at 2000 ^li. and took onely of her for a [...] acknowledgement of the right of the County Palatin [...] (that which he bestowed among his domesticall Ser­vants) [Page 111] the summe of 50 ^li. Likewise in his first Visita­tion of the Bishoprick, be­ing at Barwick upon Tweede, he [...]orgave unto one Mr. Edward Moore of Tweedmouth near Barwick, 300 ^li. in which summe he was fi [...]ed (for a Ryott at the Assizes before, at Dur­ham) which the Bishop was the rather moved to doe upon his humble supplica­tion then made. More ex­amples of his bounty and beneficencies might be produced, which I forbeare to recite, intending onely a briefe [Page 112] recitall of some such speci­all things as fell under my knowledge and observati­on, whereof now an end.

But now shall begin a piece Limned by a curiou [...] Pencil.