A GODLIE FORME OF Household Gouernment: carefully to be practised of all Christian Householders.

A Householde is as it were a little common­wealth, by the good Gouernment whereof, Gods glorie may be aduanced, the Com­monwealth which stan­deth of seuerall fami­lies, benefited, and all that liue in that familie receiue much comfort and commo­ditie.

But this gouernment of a familie is not very The rule of good Gouern­ment is wise­dome. Pro. 24. 3. 4. common in the world, for it is not a thing that men can stumble on by chance, but Wisedome, must leade vs vnto it. Through wisedome (saith Salomon) is an house builded, and with vnder­standing it is established: and by knowledge shall the Chambers thereof be filled with all precious pleasant riches: that is, shall obtaine all kind of [Page 14] blessings. See also Pro. 28. 2. by which two [...] ces it is manifest, that such families as are [...] ordered by hap-hazard, or as it falles, but [...] Wisedome, Discretion and Counsell, do p [...] per Not carnall wisedome. in inward and outward goods, and in [...] long. When we speake of wisedome we do [...] meane that this gouernment can be in all poi [...] exercised by naturall reason and wisedome [...] mans wisedome reacheth but vnto one poi [...] and that the least of that, which family-goue [...] ment tendeth vnto.

But the wisedome that we speake of, is [...] But learned out of the word. naturall, but fetched from the fountaine of [...] wisedome, God himselfe: who by his Wo [...] giueth vnto vs pure light to walke by, not [...] the Church alone, nor in publike societie [...] men onely, but euen within the secret of o [...] owne walles, and towards such as be abidi [...] vnder the same roofe. And if we desire to wa [...] with God as Enoch did, wee must set vp t [...] Gen. 5. 24. Psal. 119. 3. light for our selues to liue by at home: For th [...] we doe no iniquitie, when wee walke in his w [...] Where no wisedome is vsed in gouerning f [...] milies, Wisedome is great wealth. Without wise­dome whatso­euer a man ta­keth in hand, turneth to his owne hurt. there all goeth to wrack, and there man enormities are to be found, as wofull breach [...] betweene man and wife, gracelesnesse and vnthriftinesse of children, lewdnes of seruants, an [...] foule scapes. And where carnall policie ruleth and not the wisedome which is from about there al that is done tendeth to the ease, pleasur [...] [Page 15] and profit of this life, wherein it is fitter for bruit beasts, then for men to seeke their felicitie.

Now that there is a good kind of gouerning of a familie, which they who follow wisely, may be said to gouerne well, appeareth out of the first Epistle to Timothie 3. verse. 4. 5. One that guideth his house well, &c. and after, Hee that knoweth not to gouerne his owne house, &c. Wher­by It is out of doubt that the wise and skilful gouernment of a house is foūd out by Pru­dence, defen­ded by Science, and conserued by Experience. it is euident, that there is a way of ordering the family aright, and there is no misgouerning of it.

To set downe this good gouernment exact­ly, is a hard matter. Here onely wee will note some things which do appertaine vnto that go­uernment which we speake of. And to doe it more orderly, that it may be the better vnder­stood, we must consider, that (as may also be ga­thered out of that place of Timothie) there are two sorts in euery perfect familie.

• 1. The Gouernours.
• 2. Those that must be ruled.

And these two sorts haue speciall duties be­longing Whereof a fa­mily consistet [...] to them, the one towards the other. In the carefull performance whereof, from the one to the other, consisteth the good gouernment of a familie.

The gouernours of a family, be such as haue The first sort are such as hau authoritie in the familie. authoritie in the familie by Gods ordinance, as the father and mother, master and mistresse.

To whom, as God hath giuen authoritie [Page 16] ouer their children and seruants, so hee wou [...] Who must vse their autho­ritie. If the gouer­nour be char­ged with weightie af­faires, he may appoint one to gouerne his house, as Abra­ham, and Poti­phar did. Gen. 24. 2. and Gen. 39. 4. haue them to vse it to the wise gouernment them, not onely for their owne priuate prof [...] credit, or pleasure, but also for the good of tho [...] whom they are to gouerne: for by a wise g [...] uernment, much good commeth to the parti [...] gouerned. If masters then or parents doe n [...] gouerne, but let seruants and children doe [...] they list, they do not onely disobey God, an [...] disaduantage themselues, but also hurt tho [...] whom they should rule: for when any ha [...] such libertie to doe as they list, it maketh the [...] grow out of order, to the prouoking of God displeasure, and curse against themselues, whe [...] as if they had beene held in by the bridle [...] Gouernment, they might be brought to walke [...] the blessing of God should follow them in thei [...] so as courses.

All gouernment of a familie must be i [...] A propertie of good gouern­ment. 1. Tim. 3. 7. comelinesse or decencie, that is, it must be suc [...] as is meete and conuenient both for the gouernour, and for the person gouerned. And therefore it is impossible for a man to vnderstand how to gouerne the common-wealth, that doth not know to rule his owne house, or order his owne person, so that he that knoweth not to gouerne, deserueth not to raigne.

Lordlinesse is vnmeete in a household gouernment, and yet familiaritie with such as are vnder gouernment, breedeth contempt. Againe [Page 17] [...]or the persons gouerned, all in the Familie are [...]ot to be gouerned alike.

There is one rule to gouerne the wife by, an­ [...]ther for children, another for seruants. One rule [...]or young ones, another for old folkes.

The gouernment of a Familie tendeth vnto The markes that family gouernment aimeth at. [...]wo things specially. First, Christian holinesse, [...]nd secondly, the things of this life. By the [...]rst, God is glorified; by the second this present [...]e is sustained, in such sort as God seeth good [...]r vs.

Howsoeuer, where humane policie is the [...]le of household Gouernment, there men only [...]ue an eye to the things of this life: yet they [...]hich fetch their wisedome to rule by out of [...]e word, shall vnderstand that their gouern­ [...]ent must not onely be ciuill, but godly also: [...]at is, they must seeke to haue Holinesse found [...] their habitation, whereby God may be glori­ [...]d, as well as riches gotten, that they may be [...]mforted. This hath beene the course of holy [...]n in former ages.

Abraham flitted often from place to place, Gen. 12. 7. 8. & 13. 18. & 11 33. & 22. 9. he built an Altar wheresoeuer hee became; [...], and trained vp his familie in the feare of [...]d. Hee did not seeke excuse in his vnsetled [...]te, to let passe the care of holinesse. Holy was not contented to worshippe God him­ [...]e alone, Iob. 1. 5 but sanctified his sonnes, that is, pre­ [...]ed them to worship God with him, Iacob [Page 28] at his returne from Padam-Aram purged familie, and set vp Gods worship there. [...] Iosu. 24. 15. saith, though others should forsake the L [...] yet hee and his familie would cleaue vnto [...] and serue him. The vertuous woman openet [...] Pro. 31. 26. &c. mouth in wisedome, and teacheth mercie vnt [...] seruants. Many of the faithfull, when they t [...] selues belieued in Christ laboured to bring [...] families to the faith also. Parents also Act. 10. & 16. 14. 15. commaunded to bring vp their children in instruction and information of the Lord. B [...] which places it is euident, that Religion [...] Ephe. 6. 4. be stirring in Christian families, and that g [...] gouernment looketh to bring godly behau [...] into families, as well as thrift and good hus [...] drie.

For want of this care, many parents [...] their children faire faces, and foule mindes; [...] per bodies, and deformed soules: full cof [...] and emptie hearts: for want of this, God [...] dwell in Churches if he will, but he hath [...] bode allowed him in priuate families. For God be where he may not rule, but must b [...] vnderling and stand & looke on, when profit [...] and pleasure shall be serued, and aloft? [...] the Spirit of God saith, that God will [...] 1. Iohn. 3. 24. & 4. 12. 13. and dwell with them that loue him, and k [...] his commaundements. Where therefore [...] nesse is not sought for in families, there [...] hath no friends, nor louers, nor walkers [...] [Page 19] him, howsoeuer they will sometime come visit him in the Church.

Besides, the ill successe that such walkers haue, who make their houses temples to Mam­mon and riches, should teach vs to haue a prin­cipall respect to God in christianitie, ruling our Math. 6. 24. houses. Many thriue not, but put that which they get into a bottomles, bagge. For God who hath none or the lowest regard in their courses, and household affaires, withholdeth his blessings Hag. 1. 6. Psal. 127. 2. from them: and then in vaine doe men rise early, and goe late to bed, and eate the bread of care­fulnesse. Others thriue, but it is a wofull thrift, that serueth to harden the heart, and to bewitch the soule with loue and liking of this world. For Gods iust iudgement is vpon may this way; because they will needes serue their owne com­moditie chiefely at home, the Lord giuing them vp to themselues, they neuer serue him but cold­ly and for custome sake at the Church: and God accepteth no more of their worship they doe there, then they doe loue and like of his gouern­ment in their houses.

The gouernours of families, if (as it is in ma­riage) The sorts of gouernours. Householders or housekee­pers are per­sons authori­zed ouer their households and charges. there be more then one vpon whom the charge of gouernment lyeth, though vnequally, are, first the Chiefe gouernour, which is the Hus­band, secondly a fellow helper, which is the Wife.

These both do owe duties to their familie and dutie one to another.

The duties they owe to their Familie, bot [...] The dutie of the husband touching holi­nesse which he must performe to them. [...] To see that they haue the word ordina­rily, the want whereof, is the greatest plague that can be. Amos. 8. 11. Math. 9. 36. 37. Esa. 32. 1. 2. 3. 4. Rom. 10. 14. Iam. 1. 18. 19. 21 1 Pet. 2. 2. Heb. 2. 1. Ephe. 4. 11. 12. concerning godlinesse, and the things of thi [...] life, belong either to the husband especially, [...] to the wife especially. The duties that belong t [...] the husband touching holinesse, are such as ey­ther

• he must
  • 1. Performe to them of his familie.
  • 2, Or require of them.

The duties which he must performe to them [...] are; first, touching the publike ministery of th [...] word, to prouide that they may liue vnder a [...] ordinarie ministerie of the word, or else to tak [...] order, that alwayes vpon the Sabbath, and at [...] ther times when it may be, they resort to su [...] places where they may haue the word ministr [...] vnto them: for else how shall they be broug [...] into the sheepefold of God (from which nat [...] rally they go astray) but by hearing the voyce [...] the chiefe shepheard, speaking vnto them b [...] those whom he sendeth? how shall they belieu [...] and so be begotten againe by the seede of th [...] word, except they heare such as God sendeth f [...] the begetting of men vnto him? how shall the [...] Iam. 1. 21. be reconciled vnto God, but by hearing h [...] messengers, into whose mouthes he hath put th [...] word of reconciliation? how shall they gro [...] in faith, and increase in grace, but by receiuin [...] with meeknesse the ingrafted word, which able to saue their soules.

Seeing then the word preached, is the mean [...] [Page 21] to beget men to a new life, and to nourish them in it: a great dutie lieth vpon the gouernours of families, to prouide by some meanes that they may haue it. For where the word is not preach­ed, there the Lords Sabbath cannot be hallow­ed as it ought.

Now the Lord would not onely haue Ma­sters of families to keep holy the sabbath them­selues, in all the parts of his worship, publike and All superiours ought to be carefull that their inferiors doe keepe holy that day, as well as them­selues. priuate, but also that euery one should in his seuerall place and roome, carefully take order that so many as be committed to his charge, should sanctifie the Lords day as well as him­selfe: which though it be true in all other com­mandements, (namely that whatsoeuer we are bound to doe our selues, we must be meanes to further other in doing the same, because the loue of God and of our neighbour spreadeth it selfe ouer all the commandements: and there­fore though it be not expressed, it is necessarilie vnderstood) yet in the fourth commandement, it is so much the more required, because besides the analogie and proportion betweene it and the other commandements which doth inforce it, the very words themselues doe bind vs there­vnto. For when it is said, Thou and thy sonne, and thy daughter, thy man-seruant, and thy maide: though it speaketh by name onely of re­sting vpon the Sabbath, yet because the end of that is, that the day might be sanctified, looke [Page 22] how many reasons there be to bind the infe [...] ours to rest, and the superiours to prouide th [...] they do so indeed, so many are there to comp [...] them to sanctifie the day in their owne perso [...] and in so many as belong vnto them. The [...] fore when first of all it is generally said in t [...] fourth commaundement, Remember the Sabba [...] Deut. 5. 12: 14. 15. day, that thou keepe it holy: and afterwards, T [...] seuenth day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy G [...] that is, which must be dedicated vnto his serui [...] and in the end you must therefore rest, that y [...] might serue him in it as he requireth: and th [...] nameth the seuerall parties that should rest: [...] meaning is, to declare the right end of th [...] resting, and so speaking by name to the gou [...] nours, saith: Thou, and thy sonne, and thy daught [...] thy man seruant, and the maid, the stranger tha [...] within thy gates, to shew vnto them, that it [...] not sufficient for them to looke that th [...] vnder their gouernment should rest, vnlesse th [...] sanctifie the day of rest also, which they m [...] be so much carefull of, by how much the san [...] fication of the day is greater, then the ceas [...] to worke vpon it, as the end whereunto this but referred: and therefore if it be a sinne in the at any time, not to haue a sufficient regard vn [...] them, that they do not worke, then it must nee [...] be a greater sinne, if that through their neg [...] gence they doe not sanctifie and keepe holy th [...] day of rest.

So that heere the Lord God requireth, that in all places there should be such good lawes publikely in the Common-wealth, and pri­uately They ought not to leaue it to their dis­cretion as a thing indiffe­rent, but to compell them thereunto. in mens houses established, and dili­gently executed, as thereby not onely the rulers, but also all in subiection should be com­pelled to sanctifie the Lords day, and that they should be sure they doe it indeed. And as hee must not leaue it indifferent to them, to choose whether they will worke or rest, and so thinke it sufficient that they doe not lay any worke vpon them, so it is not inough that they hinder them not from seruing God vpon that day, vnlesse they procure all the meanes vnto them, whereby God might be worshipped of them, and see that they worship God in them, as well as them­selues. Therefore the masters of families must prouide as much as lieth in them, that the word be publikely preached where they dwell, not for themselues alone, but for their children and seruants sake, that they might keepe holy the day together with them: and they must not one­ly come themselues to the place of common praier and diuine seruice, but bring these also with them, and spend the rest of the day in all priuate godly exercises themselues, and cause others to doe so also.

And here, least this might seeme too heauie vnto vs, and that it might not be grieuous to take so great a charge vpon vs, wee must [Page 24] remember, that as we haue great help by ou [...] feriours in many things, so the Lord would [...] vs to helpe them in the chiefe and princip [...] and as he hath made them our seruants, so should make them his seruants: and when haue serued vs sixe daies, wee might cause [...] to serue him vpon the seauenth: and as the [...] hath preferred vs aboue them with their [...] uice, so hee would humble vs with this ch [...] and care ouer them, or rather exalt vs, in th [...] would haue vs to be as it were the ouersee [...] his worke, and not onely serue him our se [...] but also see his seruice done by others com [...] ted to our charge: which if ye doe not, wh [...] shall the Christian gouernours of househ [...] differ from the infidels and heathen, and [...] greater thing shall wee doe for our seru [...] then they? Nay, what shall wee doe more [...] them then for the bruit beasts and cattell worke vnder vs, to whom we giue rest and from labour vpon the Sabbath, if we cause [...] not to sanctifie the day of rest, in which [...] shall differ from all other, not onely beasts men.

And this is the meaning of that Law w [...] Deut. 11. 10. So haue the seruants of God done in times past in their seuerall families. Moses gaue to the Israelites, Comman [...] them to write the word of God vpon the post [...] their houses, and vpon their gates. Whereb [...] vnder gouernment, were taught what sh [...] be required of them so long as they liue [...] [Page 25] those houses, namely, to serue God: and all go­uernours were taught, what especially to looke after in all them that went in and out of their gates, and liued vnder the roofe of their houses, euen to serue the Lord in all parts of his wor­ship, for which end hee hath giuen them such authoritie ouer them. According to which commandement, the worthie Captaine of Gods people Iehoshuah, made this protestation before all the Elders of Israel a little before his death, exhorting them to doe the like: I and Iosh. 24. 15. mine house will serue the Lord, promising not onely for himselfe, but for all his, which though it was too hard to doe, yet because he knew how many meanes the Lord had giuen him to bring it to passe, which also God would blesse (as all godly exhortations, admonitions, and chastise­ments, whereby if they did not profit, hee had authoritie to thrust them out of his house, and to rid himselfe of them all, which hee was pur­posed to put in practise) therefore he was bold thus to speake of himselfe, thereby shewing what all men should propound to themselues, and may attaine vnto. The like whereof Da­uid speaketh of himselfe, in that worthie Psalme. 101. which is left as a patterne for all Christian gouernours to rule by: wherein hee sheweth, how hee would rule not onely him­selfe, but his household, nay the whole King­dome, by hauing an eie to them that were good, [Page 26] to reward them, and to them that were [...] to punish them: that so not onely himselfe, all his might serue the Lord. After the s [...] manner in the time of the Captiuitie, when noble Queene Hester willed all the dispe [...] Iews to keep holy three daies together in fast and prayer, that so they might intreat the L [...] to deliuer them from that finall destruction [...] vtter ruine which Haman the cursed Am [...] kite and sworne enemie of Gods people [...] determined to bring vpon them speedily, s [...] said, That shee and her maids would doe the [...] Hest. 4. 16. Whereby no doubt, she insinu [...] vnto them, that in euerie household, her m [...] ning was, that it should be thorowly kept [...] all sides, not onely of the rulers, and fo [...] few, but of all others, euen vnto the maid-s [...] uants.

Now, the Sabbath, and the day of Fast [...] both of one nature, as the word doth sufficie [...] beare witnesse. Therefore if this hath beene [...] practise of the Church vpon that day to fast [...] not the chiefe alone, but their families als [...] then must wee needes be perswaded, [...] vpon the Lords day we ought our selues, [...] our households to serue the Lord, and to [...] with Ioshua, I and mine house will serue the Lo [...] and with Hester, I and my seruants will doe [...] like.

And how could that haue beene verified [Page 27] he religious Captaine Cornelius, which is writ­ [...]en of him, that hee was a deuout man, and one Act. 10. 1. [...]hat feared God with all his household, vnlesse [...]e had not onely frequented the common as­ [...]emblies vpon the Sabbath daies, but had also equainted his seruants therewith? Therefore [...]s the Lord himselfe speaketh of Abraham, [...]ho is the father of all beleeuers, I know that Gen, 18. 10. [...]e will commaund his Sonnes, and his household [...]fter him: that they keepe the way of the Lord, to [...]oe righteousnesse and iudgement, that the Lord [...]ay bring vpon Abraham, that hee hath spoken vnto him: So it must be practised of all them, [...]hat will be the children of this faithfull Abra­ham, and enioy the same promise that hee and his posteritie did, euen that they cause their chil­dren and their seruants, to keepe holy the Sab­bath, wherein consisteth the true worship of the Lord, that so they might walke in that way, which hath the promises of this life, and the life [...]o come.

So then it may most euidently appeare, [...]oth by the wordes of the commaunde­ment, and by the practise of the best men in the old and new Testament, that this dutie is [...]aid vpon all householders, diligently to ouer­see the waies of their families, that they serue God, as in all other duties, so especially in san­ctifying the Sabbath, as they will answere to the contrarie at their perill, to him that hath put [Page 28] them in authoritie, and as they will giue [...] count for their soules, which otherwise [...] perish through their default.

Which though it be so strictly requi [...] But in our time, it is for the most part, wholy neg­lected. all men, and vnder so great a paine laide [...] them, yet it is so generally neglected of the [...] test part, that wee may rather complain [...] iustly with griefe, then haue any hope o [...] speedie reformation of it. For besides [...] great many haue no care to sanctifie th [...] themselues, and therefore cannot with any science require it of their seruants and chil [...] but either set them to worke, or play, a [...] doe any thing vpon that day, sauing that [...] they should, and doe encourage them the to by their owne ill example and words: be others also, who though they seeme to some care to keepe holy the day themse [...] (and haue in deed) yet either through i [...] rance, or negligence, do not once looke to household, whether they come to Churc [...] no, and sit there attentiuely, and continue with profit to the ending, nor how they s [...] the rest of the day: but being demanded w [...] their seruants were, how chance they came [...] to Church, &c. they answere securelie, (an [...] they thinke sufficientlie) as though it we thing meerely impertinent vnto them, that [...] cannot tell, they doe not hinder them f [...] the Church, they may come if they will, [...] [Page 29] of age to looke to themselues, and they are boyes now, and I cannot tell what, &c.

But they must consider, besides that which [...] beene alreadie spoken concerning this mat­ [...] that they doe too foolishly and grosly ima­ [...]e to stope (as it were) the mouth of the Lord, [...]h that simple answere in his busines, which [...]y will not receiue at their seruants hands in [...]ir owne. For in the sixe daies, when their [...]ants are in their owne busines, they will not them come and goe at their owne pleasure, I content themselues with a bare imagina­ [...] that they be at their workes, but will be [...]e of it, and therefore set them to it, look vpon [...]m in the doing of it, and call them to an ac­ [...]nt for it, which if it be well done in them­ [...]es, because they know otherwise they will negligent, how must it then not needs be a at vnkindnesse and vnthankfulnesse in them [...]o God, that vpon this day (which is but one [...]ong seauen) his seruice should be so slender- [...]ooked vnto, that there is no such diligence [...]d towards their seruants, that they might per­ [...]me it?

And how must it not needes be a great iniu­ [...] to their seruants, (who are naturally and the most part more negligent and carelesse Gods seruice, by reason of their corruption, [...]n they can be in the seruice of men) to be [...]riued of that benefit of their gouernours [Page 30] (which is the chiefest, and for which cause [...] cially they are committed to their go [...] ment) namely, to be furthered by them seruice of God: but vse them more like then men, euen that they might be serui [...] vnto them, and then care not whether they God or the diuell.

Wee know that seruants looke to be p [...] red by their masters (and so there is goo [...] son when they haue serued them faithfully what kind of reward is this, when h [...] bestowed some earthly benefit vpon [...] by hauing no care to make them seru [...] Lord, and sanctifie his Sabbaths, they doe i [...] end not onely make them lose the euerla [...] reward, but preserue them to eternall de [...] ction?

Moreouer, there are a companie of idle [...] uing-men, who in spending their time a [...] Especially in great house­holdes, where there are ma­ny seruants. sixe dayes hauing almost nothing therein to are seldome looked vnto vpon the sea [...] day, but permitted to bestow it as vainely: other: and as they neuer almost doe any daies worke to their masters, so much lesse they spend any Sabbath in the Lords ser [...] but they especially are left to goe and co [...] their will.

Others that haue any office of great ch [...] and attendance (as the Cookes, Butlers, such like, in great houses) seldome or n [...] [Page 31] [...]ome to the Church, and that but by pieces, ei­ [...]her when halfe is done: or else they are ready [...]o depart before halfe be ended, and so both hin­der the Lord from that seruice which he should haue by them, and themselues from that blessing which they should inherit that way: and both cause the name of God to be ill spoken of, and [...]pul vpon themselues and their masters that curse which belongeth to the continuall polluting of the Sabbath.

And how can they looke that that seruice and that meate and drinke should doe them good, which is thus prepared, and bought (as it were) with the continuall danger of the soules of their seruants, besides the dishonour of the name of God.

When Dauid had inconsiderately desired to drinke of the water of Bethleem, three mighty men brake into the host of the Philistims, and drew water, and brought it to him: but hee would not drinke thereof, but powred it for an offering to the Lord, and said: Oh Lord, be it farre from me that I should doe thus: is not this 2. Sam. 23. 15. 16. the bloud of the men that went in ieopardy of their liues? How much lesse then ought men to eate and drinke that for which their seruants doe venter the liues of their soules? And besides, if wee iustly finde fault with them, who doe ne­uer or seldome preach to the people commit­ted to their charge, and so cause their soules [Page 32] to starue and die eternally: how can th [...] blameles, who seldome or neuer bring the [...] uants to the preaching of the word? And [...] they not needes be culpable of the same i [...] ment before God, seeing it is all one wit [...] seruants, whether they liue in the places w [...] the word of God is not preached at all: o [...] be, yet they come not vnto it.

But whereas men are ready to obiect, th [...] Obiection. a great Familie, many must needes be absen [...]

We grant it to be true, in some part, th [...] Answere. at some time, and vpon some occasion: but s [...] dinarily and so continually (as they themse [...] in their own consciences are priuie to who [...] this obiection) we know no necssitie that [...] excuse that. Nay, we are sure that the Lord [...] laid no such calling vpon any man, that sh [...] keepe him in a continual breach of the Sabb [...] and therefore both maister and seruant may [...] pect, that hee is in such a calling as is not ag [...] able to Gods word, or that hee vseth it no [...] right, when it maketh him if not wholy, ye [...] the most part, to neglect the seruice of God [...] on the Sabbath day.

And wee know (where there is great [...] to serue and please God by prayer,) the Lo [...] will giue to them such wisedome, that th [...] shall be able to redeeme, if not the whole, [...] at least a great part of the day, which other [...] will be misspent: namely, by letting passe m [...] [Page 33] needlesse things, by preparing so much before [...]s conueniently may be, by rising so much the [...]ore early in the morning, and by the inter­ [...]hangeable helpe of other seruants: especially [...]hen they will for these causes be contented [...]ith so much the lesse, though not in quantitie [...] for the reliefe of others) yet with lesse exqui­ [...]ite and curious dressing, which especially ta­ [...]eth vp the time: and so we are sure, and they [...]at will trie it in the feare of God, and with [...] care to serue him, and in a loue to the soules [...]f their brethren, shall finde it to be true by ex­ [...]erience, that many might keepe holy the Sab­ [...]ath, which now do it not at all: others might [...]eepe it more then they doe. Which if yet it be [...]ought vnpossible (because we go not about to [...]ractise it) let vs but obserue that which we shal [...]e done in the house when the seruant is very [...]esirous to goe to a Faire, and the master is as [...]illing to let him goe; you would wonder to [...]e how things shall be dispatched vp sodainly, [...]d in good order; they shall be absent many [...]ures, and yet not greatly missed: if any thing [...]e otherwise then is vsuall, it is borne with be­ [...]use it is a day of prouision for themselues, and [...]at day is not euery day. So then, if the masters [...]ere perswaded of the Lords day, as they ought [...] be, euen that it is the time of making prouisi­ [...]n for the soule, and were as carefull for the [...]ules of their seruants, as they are for their bo­ [...]es, and did esteeme it more for their worship [Page 34] and credite that their seruants were religi [...] then that they were costly, and well set ou [...] apparell; they would be better contented spare them, during the time of that Ma [...] where they may buy without money all graces of Gods Spirit, and the riches of Kingdome of heauen: whereby they should only saue their owne soules, but be made m [...] fit to doe duties to their masters of conscie [...]

Therefore (to end this point) it is the [...] tie The gouer­nours of fami­lies should take order that their whole household might come to Church to­gether. of all houshold gouernours to cause whole family to be in a readines to attend v [...] them to and fro the Church, and that it be [...] left at euery mans discretion to come when will, but that they should goe together. An [...] deed this hath beene the orderly commin [...] Gods people in times past to the place of worship, that they haue not come scattered [...] alone, but many together, and by compani [...] whereof the Prophet speaketh, When I rem [...] bred Psal. 42. 4. these things, I powred out my very heart, [...] cause I had gone with the multitude, and led t [...] into the house of God, with the voyce of singing, praise, as a multitude that keepeth a feast. [...] which place, the man of God complaini [...] that he was banished from the holy assembl [...] saith, that his griefe was increased by reme [...] bring his former estate, when he vsed to go [...] a great company to the Temple, euen as [...] feast: whereby he declareth what was the n [...] uer of their going; euen as men go to a mar [...] [Page 35] or to a feast, not only with ioy, but also by com­panies, and so many of one house as go, will go together: so they did not only go to the house of God cheerefully, but many of them together, euen as to the market, and feast of their soules. By which practise of theirs as the doing of ma­ny is condemned, so it appeareth that the men of our time are led by another spirit then they were, and are otherwise perswaded of the wor­ship and place they go vnto: for all the people, nay, the seuerall housholds come not together, but scattered, and one dropping after another, in a confused manner.

First, comes the man, then a quarter of an houre after, his wife, and after her, wee cannot tell how long especially the mayd seruants, who must needs be as long after her, as the men ser­uants are after him. Whereby it commeth to passe, that either half the seruice of God is done, before all be met: or else if the Minister tary till there be a sufficient congregation, the first commers may be weary, and sometimes colde with tarying, before the other shall be warme in their seates.

Now if it be demanded of then masters why they alone make such haste, and leaue al the rest behind them; & they answere, truly because the time is come, wherein vsually publike praier be­ginneth: can they be perswaded that it is time for themselues to come (as it is indeed) and yet no time for the rest to come with them? Hath [Page 36] the master no longer time to tarie, and hau [...] his seruants time to tarie so long after him? [...] though there were one Law for him, and ano­ther for them: or rather, that the same Law o [...] the Sabbath, which moueth him of conscience [...] doe that which he doth, did not as forcibly bin [...] them all, as himselfe: nay, did not binde him t [...] looke to them, that they should keep holy the day, as well as himselfe. Which if he grant to b [...] true & yet is not able to bring it to passe (whe [...] the Lord hath giuen him so great authority fo [...] his owne sake) partly through the frowardness [...] of his wife, and partly through the obstinaci [...] of the rest in the familie: his case is to be pitied and he is rather to be gouerned, then to gouern [...] and he might doe well to set vp one of them in h [...] [...], Cor. 6. 4. stead, seeing hee doth suffer himselfe wilfully [...] to be abused, and is contented to be ouer-rule by them in the chiefest thing.

Therefore that he might bring this matte [...] happily to passe, as he must goe before them b [...] his owne example, and be readie betimes, eue [...] first of all, so he must earnestly call vpon the [...] for this dutie, and exhort them vnto it; and th [...] flower that they are, and the more they dra [...] backe, the more forward must he be, and by hi [...] practise and words draw them forwards also For this is that readinesse which Dauid obse [...] ued in the people of his time: I reioyced wh [...] Psal. 122. 1. they said vnto me, we will goe into the house of t [...] Lord: or let vs goe into the house of the Lord, (f [...] [Page 37] they are words of exhorting, and encouraging one another thereunto.) Euen as the Prophet Esay also foretelleth, that this shall be the zeale of Gods people in the time of the Gospell, that they shall goe together to serue God, and there­fore call vpon one another for the same pur­pose, saying: It shall be in the last dayes, that the Mountaine of the house of the Lord shall be prepa­red Esay. 2. 2. 3. in the top of the Mountaines, and shall be exal­ted aboue the hills, and all nations shall flow vnto it, and many people shall goe and say: Come, and let vs goe vp to the mountaine of the Lord, to the house of the God of Iacob.

And truely this want of zeale in vs to Gods worship, and loue to the saluation of our bre­thren (bewraying it selfe in the neglect of this dutie of calling vpon one another) is the cause of this slownesse. For the husband going first out of the dotes saith to his Wife, make haste, and come assoone as you can: she comming at her leisure giues the same charge to her seruants, dispatch, and tarie not long behind; but here is no saying: Come let vs goe, let vs goe together, and if it be once said, it is not pursued, that it might be performed.

In going to market, and to a feast, what ear­nest calling will there be vpon one another: and it would seeme strange to behold the household goe deuided, and it were a thing that would much be marked, and euery one that knew vs-and whither we were going, it should be the [Page 38] first question they would aske vs: how chanceth this, that you come alone? where is your hus­band, your wife, or your children? why come you not together? So no doubt, the dispersed and broken comming of households to the Church is a thing greatly obserued of the Lord God, and of his Angels, which are present at their assemblies: and it is that which grieueth Cor. 11. 10. the rest of the Church, & as soon as they see one come in alone, they are ready with griefe to aske, where are the rest? what meaneth this partie to come alone? Therefore let all gouernours be perswaded, that it is their bounden duetie thus to looke to their families, & to be sure that they sanctifie the Lords day, as wel as themselues: & that they not only thus bring them to the pub­like ministerie, but also looke vnto them, that they spend the rest of the day in holy exercises, so much as may be: examining them in that which they haue heard, and causing them to confer about it themselues, and to appoint some to read the scripture vnto them, and all of them to sing Psalmes: and generally, whatsoeuer they haue seene before, that they ought to do them­selues, to call vpon their seruants for the same, and to take such order, that they be sure they doe it: and let them be sorie, that they haue neg­lected this dutie so long heretofore, & thereby haue charged so many sinnes of their houshold vpon themselues: and now at the last in Gods holy feare, let them begin to put this in practise, [Page 39] least they doe further prouoke the most patient Lord, to their endles destruction. And, though it be a thing so rare in the world, as it is, & men altogether so vnacqainted with it, as they be, nay, so loathsome & tedious to flesh and blood, that they are afraid once to begin with it: yet let the bare commandment of God preuaile more with vs to take in hand, and to continue in it, then all that can be said or thought against it should weigh with vs, either to keepe vs from it at the first, or afterwards cause vs to giue it o­uer. And, that all men might do it so much the The want of this care in household, is the cause of much wicked­nesse, rebelli­on, and disor­der in their fa­milies. rather, let them be assured that the want of this especially, is the cause of so many wicked and rebellious children, vntrustie and disobedient seruants, nay, vnfaithful and vnkind wiues euery where: euen for that their husbands, their fa­thers, and their masters, do not call vpon them to serue God, and see them sanctifie the Sab­bath. It is a common and iust complaint in all places, in the mouth of euery man, that seruants and children will not be ruled, that they can­not tell where to finde a good seruant, they know not whom to trust, but they see not the greatest cause of it to be in themselues, and so go not about to remedy it. For whiles they labor not to make their children the sons and daugh­ters of God by adoption, and to bring their ser­uants within the houshold of God, that they might be his seruants by grace, and to make their wiues the chaste spouses of Iesus Christ, [Page 40] and so all of them to serue him: the Lord i [...] punisheth them, making wiues, children, se [...] and all disobedient vnto them. For how ca [...] do duties vnto men, if they haue not learn [...] doe duties vnto God, and so of conscienc [...] Gods sake to do duties vnto men? Nay, not the Lord needs punish them with dis [...] dience against themselues, that by their [...] experience they might know how grieuo [...] neglect of his seruice is vnto himselfe, whe [...] iustly measureth out vnto them with the [...] measure, that they haue met vnto him bef [...]

And whereas men are readie to ima [...] Obiection. and we know it is that which many doe o [...] against this, that to deale so straightly [...] their household were the next way to rid [...] selues of all good seruants, and that then [...] might soone be master and man themse [...] They must againe on the contrarie vnders [...] Answere. that it is a great wickednesse in them on [...] think that the Lord should require that of [...] which would necessarily driue them to suc [...] conueniences: nay rather they must be assur [...] perswaded, that godlinesse hath the promi [...] 1. Tim. 4. 8. this life, as well as of the life to come: and t [...] we first seeke the kingdome of God and his ri [...] ousnes, Mat. 6. 23. in our selues, and others, all needfull t [...] shall be cast vnto vs. Euen as it is said of [...] ham, I know that he will command his sonne [...] Gen. 18. 19. his household after him, that they keepe the [...] of the Lord, to doe righteousnesse and iudge [...] [Page 41] that the Lord may bring vpon Abraham, that he hath spoken vnto him. So that thus to doe, is the very high way, not to keepe vs from, but to bring vs vnto the fruition of all Gods pro­mises, if we giue credit vnto him, who as he on­ly maketh them in the beginning of meere mercie, so must hee onely accomplish them in the end by his constant veritie and truth. We confesse indeed, if hee be an ill seruant, this is the readiest way to be rid of him, whose roome is better then his company: for hee thinketh himselfe to be in a prison, nay in hell all the while: but in the end he shall perceiue that hee is gone from the way of Heauen vnto hell, if the Lord be not more mercifull vnto him. And why should we be loth to depart from the ser­uice of them, that haue no care to serue God? or can we looke that they should doe any faith­full seruice vnto vs, that are so vnfaithfull in the seruice of God?

But as concerning the rest, if any be religi­ous, this is the best meane to retaine and keepe To haue such good orders in our houses, is not the next way to driue away our ser­uants from vs. [...]hem: if they be but indifferent, this may winne [...]hem: if they be falling away, this may recouer [...]hem. For what shall we thinke of all the godly [...]athers in times past, that when they vowed di­ [...]igently to looke to their households, that they [...]hould serue God with them, and did constant­ [...]y performe it, that then they had no seruants at all? Was so great a man as Iehoshua without seruants, when hee promised before so many [Page 42] witnesses, that he and his house would serue [...] Lord? Was Dauid left alone, and constrained doe all himselfe, when as being a mightie Ki [...] he bound himselfe vnto it by that song wh [...] he made for the same purpose, wherein he sai [...] Mine eyes shall be vnto the faithfull of the la [...] Psal. 101. 9. 7. that they may dwell with me: he that walketh a perfect way, he shall serue me: there shall no [...] ceitfull person dwell in mine house: he that tell [...] lyes shall not remaine in my sight? Had not Ab [...] ham Gen. 14. 14. a great household, when hee was able of [...] sodaine to carie forth with him, of them that w [...] borne and brought vp in his house, three hund [...] and eighteene men in armour, to rescue his brot [...] Lot? Of whom notwithstanding, it is said, that would teach his household the way of the Lord [...] it appeareth he did indeed, when by his on [...] perswasion at the word of God, all the ma [...] Chap. 17. 12. were contented to be circumcised, and to recei [...] that Sacrament, vnknowne before, and painf [...] and also ignominious to the flesh, if they h [...] looked onely to the outward signe. And m [...] not that worthy Captaine of an hundred Itali [...] souldiers needs haue a greater familie then m [...] ny of these that cauill at this doctrine? of who [...] the spirit of truth reporteth, That hee fea [...] Act. 10. 2. God, and all his household.

What shall wee thinke of all these me [...] Obiection. Shall we ignorantly presume to the further [...] ceiuing of our selues, and hardening vs in t [...] sinne, that the times were then better, and go [...] [Page 43] [...]ruants then more plentifull? Or must wee Answere. [...]eedes confesse, as the truth is indeed, that these [...]en vsed more meanes to make their seruants [...]e seruants of God then men doe now a daies, [...]nd that so the blessing of God was greater [...]pon them? And is it not set downe in writing [...]or our learning, to shew vs what is that which [...]e might looke for at Gods hands, if we would [...]alke in the same way that they did, seeing there [...] no respect of persons, times, or places with [...]im?

Secondly, hee must set an order in his house [...]or the seruice of God, to wit, that morning and [...]uening, before meales, and after meales, pray­ [...]rs and thankes may be offered vnto God, and [...]o hee acknowledged to be the authour, not [...]nely of all spirituall graces that belong to a bet­ [...]er life, but also of all temporall blessings that [...]elong to this life. For seeing that it is Gods [...]ood hand ouer vs, that doth defend vs and all [...]ur familie in the night from outward dangers, [...]nd giueth vs freedome from feares and terrors, [...]nd from Sathans rage, and also giueth vs rest [...]nd comfortable sleepe, for the refreshing of our [...]raile bodies, is it not meete wee should begge [...]t at his hand by prayer, before we prepare our [...]elues to rest, and praise him for it, when wee [...]ise from it? Againe, seeing that euery day wee [...]re subiect to iunumerable dangers, which we know not of, and both wisdome and strength to follow good and honest callings, and also the [Page 44] blessing vpon our labours to make vs p [...] by them, are from God alone: should [...] begin the day with suite vnto God for hi [...] ous protection, and for his mercifull bles [...] vs? And seeing meates and drinks are san [...] vnto vs on Gods part by the word, an [...] 1. Tim. 4. 5. by prayer: doubtlesse though God hath [...] word sanctified them, they are vnholy vn [...] when we doe not for our part sanctifie th [...] faithfull prayer and thanksgiuing. And t [...] Dauids practise. Psal. 55. 17. Euening a [...] ning, and at noonetide, will I pray, and make [...] and he will heare my voyce. If any say it is s [...] ent for the gouernour to charge euery [...] his familie to doe it priuately by himself might the Prince say, it is inough to do [...] rius did, to charge euery one in all his d [...] ons to worship no God, but Daniels Go [...] Dan. 6. 26. godly Princes thought it their dutie to [...] the worship of God in their dominions, [...] take order that God might be worshipped likely and ioyntly of all in their land. So d [...] Iob. 1. 5. 6. for his household, not only bid his childre [...] to God by themselues, but he appoin [...] times of praying together, and sacrificing commanded his children to come pre [...] thereunto. Againe, if the maister lay the [...] vpon the consciences of such as be of his [...] milie, then if they be negligent, God shal [...] no honour and worship in that familie.

But we reade of Abraham, that where [...] [Page 45] [...] became, he built an altar to God, where God Gen. 12. 7. 8. & 13. 8. & 21. 33. & 22. 9. [...]ould be worshipped ioyntly of his familie. If [...]od should measure out his goodnesse to thee, [...] thou measurest honour and glory to him, in [...]hat a cause wert thou? He doth giue a charge his Angels to keepe thee, he commandeth [...]e earth to allow thee meate for thy sustenance, [...]d his commandement is an effectuall word, [...]at maketh them to do the thing that he char­ [...]th them withall. Wilt thou now onely bid thy [...]ruant or sonne to serue and honour God, and [...]ot see that he doe it, and helpe him in it? Then [...]ou dost not measure out vnto God, as thou [...]ouldest haue him measure to thee.

This dutie then belongeth to a christian head [...]f a familie, to worship God with all his fami­ [...]e, and to take order that when he shalbe absent [...]pon necessarie occasion, it may be done reue­ [...]ently and duly by some one in his familie, that [...]y reason of wit and age may be meet for it. [...]he neglect of this dutie letteth into families [...]any grieuous enormities, and outward mise­ [...]es, while God in his iustice refuseth to blesse [...]ch, as by their carelesnesse in seruing of him [...]oe shew, that they take not him to be the au­ [...]or of all wel-fare to soule or body, but thinke [...]o do well inough without him, or else thinke to [...]aue their turnes serued without requesting.

The third dutie, which the chiefe gouernour Priuate in­structing. [...]ust performe to all in his familie, is priuate in­ [...]truction, and dealing with them in matters of [Page 46] religion, for the building of them vp [...] faith, and for the invring and bringing [...] to a conscience towards God, that the not onely know and professe religion, [...] feele and shew the power of religion i [...] liues. This dutie hath these specials be [...] to it: First, a familiar and plaine openi [...] them the principles of religion, after t [...] ner of a Catechisme. This dutie the holy [...] layeth vpon parents. Ephe. 6. 4. Traine t [...] in doctrine & holy precepts, drawn out of t [...] The like was commanded to parents in law: Let these words, which I command [...] day, be in thine heart, and whet them o [...] Deut. 6. 7. 8. 9. children, and speake of them when thou s [...] thy house, when thou walkest in the way, w [...] lyest downe, & when thou risest vp, &c. So [...] not enough to bring thy children to be [...] sed at the Church, but thou must labou [...] them at home after a more plaine and manner of instruction, that so they may [...] ter profit by the publike teaching. Loo [...] uerbs 22. 6. Thou euen by breeding th [...] dren hast helped them into corruption damnable estate: how oughtest thou the [...] holy care and paines taken with them [...] ching them the knowledge of God in to help them out of it, that they may no [...] brands of hell? And for seruants, seein [...] spend their strength, & wearie out their and bestow their dayes and yeeres in s [...] [Page 27] [...]hy profit and ease: oughtest not thou then to [...]eeke the saluation of their soules? Salomon saith, [...]he iust man hath regard to his beast: much [...]ore shouldest thou haue regard to thy ser­ [...]ant, who is made according to the image of God with thee, and is redeemed with as deere a [...]rice, as thou art. And thy care for him should [...]ot stretch to his bodie alone, but especially to [...]is soule; that seeing his calling will not suffer [...]im to vse so many, and so many, and so often [...]eanes for the good of it as were requisite, hee [...]ight herein be helped by thee.

The second speciall is, an acquainting them Reading the scriptures. [...]ith the Scriptures, by reading them daily in [...]hy house in their hearing, and directing them [...]o marke, and make vse of those things which [...]re plaine and easie, according to their capaci­ [...]ie. So Timothie was trained vp by his parents 2. Tim. 3. 15. [...] the Scriptures, so that he knew them from a [...]hild: that is, was made acquainted with them [...]y reading them, and being instructed in them [...]ccording to his capicitie. This shal make them [...]he fitter to heare and profit by the publike [...]inisterie: whereas the neglect of this dutie makes them vnable to heare and vnderstand he Preacher when he citeth examples, or quo­eth texts out of sundry places of Scripture. The [...]elp that their familie might reape by it should make them carefull in this reading of the Scrip­ [...]ure.

The third is, a diligent care, and regard that [Page 48] they profit by the publike ministery of the w [...] and Sacraments, euery one according to th [...] capacitie. And this dutie requireth, that th [...] should not onely looke that they doe diligen [...] frequent the preaching of the word, and c [...] fully come to the Sacraments in due time, b [...] also that they shew them how, and put them [...] mind of preparing themselues to the word a [...] Sacraments, as Iob did his sons. They must pr [...] pare them to heare the word, by willing them [...] consider Gods ordinance, his promise, and th [...] owne necessitie, &c. by commanding them [...] lay aside all such cares, thoughts and affection as might hinder them from a diligent hearin [...] To the Sacraments they must prepare the [...] by willing them to consider of Gods institu [...] on, the ministerie of his Sacraments, his me [...] in Iesus Christ, their faith, their repentance, an [...] their wants: that so seeking assurance of grac [...] of reconciliation, and comfort, they may com [...] preparedly to the Lords table.

Againe, to further their profit, they must di [...] gently examine them, what they haue learne [...] what vse they can make of such doctrine, & al [...] helpe and direct them, wherein they faile. Th [...] Mat. 16. 15. 16. 17. did our Sauiour Christ his disciples. Beside [...] they must call vpon them for the practis [...] of that which they learne out of the word, tha [...] the word grow not to a common matter, of n [...] further vse but to talke of vpon the Sabbath da [...]

The fourth speciall dutie that belongeth t [...] [Page 49] [...]se of Gods works either past, or present, as of [...]xamples of his mercie and goodnes, to be en­ [...]ouraged by them to trust in him: by works of [...] is iustice, to be moued to feare him, and so to [...]ow the seede of conscience & religion in them. [...]hus did Abraham, Gen. 18. 19. which care of [...]is moued the Lord to reueale to him his pur­ [...]ose of destroying the Sodomites.

The duties which they are to require of them [...]oncerning godlines, be, to vse the publike Mi­ [...]stery carefully: to be diligent and reuerent in [...]e priuate worship of God: to submit them­ [...]lues to priuate instruction of all sorts, and to [...]ake their vse of it to the building vp of them­ [...]lues in faith: and lastly, to practise all holy [...]d christian duties, which being comprised [...]iefly in the Commandements, are more [...]rgely layed open by the publike ministerie of [...]e word, and by priuate Catechising.

But after what maner must they require these [...]ties? We answere, not only by telling of them [...]hat they must doe, and calling vpon them for [...]e doing of it, and by gentle admonition when [...]ey be backward: but also by correcting them, [...] they shall be negligent and contemptuous in [...]e practise thereof.

• This correcting is either by
  • Rebuking, or
  • Chastising them,

[...]cording to the quality of the fault, & the con­ [...]tion of the partie, that is so to be dealth with.

A rebuke, is a pronouncing of some mi [...] hauiour, or knowne wickednesse of any, [...] Leuit. 19. 17. 2. Tim. 4. 2. condemning of the same by the word of G [...] whereby they may haue shame, that o [...] might feare.

Correction is a sharpe thing, and there [...] Pro. 27. 5. and 29. 19. not easie borne of our nature, which is ful [...] selfe-loue: and through the corruption o [...] ture it is turned into an occasion of great [...] wardnes, sturdines, and naughtines, where [...] not wisely dealt in. Now the better to min [...] correction, with more hope of doing goo [...] it, we must consider:

• First, the end of correcting.
• Secondly, the matters for which corre [...] must be giuen.
• Thirdly, the maner of correcting.

1 The end in correction must not b [...] wrecke and reuenge thine anger, or malic [...] to reuenge thy selfe for an iniurie done, no [...] alonely the preuenting of the like hurt by [...] like fault afterward: but in zeale of God [...] rie who is dishonoured by the lewdnes of [...] offender, and in loue to the partie, thou [...] seeke by wise correction to reclaime him [...] such euill as bringeth danger to him, a [...] make him more carefull of his dutie afterw [...] Herein they faile, who in correcting haue [...] spect, but to their owne commoditie.

2 For the matters that deserue corre [...] this is a rule, that there must be no rebu [...] [Page 51] much lesse chastising, but where there is a fault. For where any is vniustly corrected, besides the iniurie, it hurteth him by hardning him a­gainst iust correction. For he will thinke that it is the rash hastinesse of his gouernor that put­teth him to smart, and not his owne desert.

By fault I meane, not onely the committing of that which was forbidden, but also the omit­ting of that good which was commaunded. But euery such fault is not to be censured with correction: sometime ignorance, mistaking, ouersight, and a desire to please in one thing maketh inferiours to offend in others. Except there be contempt, or willing negligence, or retchlesse ouersight, a gentle admonition may serue. And indeed, superiors must take heed of comming to the greatest remedies of correction [...]oo soone: for so they may soone marre the par­ [...]ie by ouer-sharpe dealing, which by a wise [...]roceeding by degrees might haue been gai­ [...]ed. Furthermore, Gouernours must know yet more expresly for what to correct. Some neuer [...]orrect but for their owne matters, neuer re­ [...]arding the faults committed against God. But [...]he godly Gouernour, that aymeth at Gods [...]lory, and seeketh the Lord, and not himselfe, [...] most grieued for those disorders in his family, [...]hat tend to Gods dishonour, and such he cor­ [...]ecteth most carefully. And as for the defaults of [...]is familie that are against himselfe, he looketh [...]ore to Gods dishonour by them, then to his [Page 52] owne hurt or losse, & in zeale of God is dr [...] to correct, and not of selfe-loue. Hee there [...] counteth these things worthy of correctie [...] any delight in the ignorance of God, or be [...] les to approue himselfe, as one that wholy [...] pendeth on him, loueth him, feareth him, [...] renceth him, laboureth to approue all his [...] before him: if any be giuen to Idolatrie an [...] perstition, and careth not in euery part o [...] worship of God to follow his reuealed wil [...] in the parts commanded he appeare negli [...] and colde, or put them to any other vse th [...] commanded, or be giuen to images, supe [...] ous monuments, customes, occasions, or [...] like: if any dishonor the name of God, [...] in the vnreuerent vsing, or abusing, or pe [...] ting, and not vsing it with that preparatio [...] fore, feeling at the present time, and fruit [...] which is prescribed, his titles, word, Sacram [...] or works: if any prophane his sabbath by [...] pastimes, & gaming, as cards, dice, dancing, [...] going to playes, or giue not himselfe to th [...] ercises appointed for that day out of the w [...] if any neglect speciall duties towards th [...] quals, superiors, or inferiors, in yeeres, gift [...] thoritie; as Magistrates, Ministers, Master [...] rents, seruants, children, or people: if any d [...] not a conscience to flie euill, anger, malice [...] tention, quarrelling, fighting, or any hurti [...] the person of man, either in soule or body, [...] being carefull to succour the same accordi [...] [Page 53] his calling, if any be found vnchaste in body, words, countenance, or gesture; vntemperate in diet, in apparel dissolute, not caring to maintaine the contrarie holinesse in himselfe and others: if any be not carefull to preserue the goods of another man, or shall by falshood, flatterie, and oppression diminish the same; if he be negli­gent in increasing of his owne, by honest and lawfull meanes, or mispend them in Cards, Dice, gaming, &c. if any care not to maintain [...] [...]he good names of others, but be giuen to vn­ [...]ecessary blasing of other mens infirmities, by [...]ying, slandering, back-byting, taunting: if any [...]hew himselfe carelesse to restraine the moti­ [...]ns and entisements vnto sinne, and the lust of [...]he same: and hee will vse the meanes follow­ [...]ng to redresse them.

The manner of correcting must likewise be [...]ooked vnto: for to faile in that maketh corre­ [...]tion hurtfull oftentimes, but alwaies vnauaile­ [...]ble. For this point then, we must know, that [...]orrection must be

• Ministred in
  • Wisedome,
  • and
  • Patience.

Wisdome is that, by which we obserue come­ [...]nesse Ephe. 5. 14, 16, 17. in euery action; that is to say, by which [...]ee obserue what we doe, how, in what place, at [...]hat time, before whom: that all things may be [...]one in a conuenient place, time, and manner.

• [Page 54]Wisdome will
  • 1. Finde out the right p [...] that committed the f [...] that hee that is innocen [...] not vniustly burthened.
  • 2. Consider of what sort [...] nature the fault is.
  • 3. Weigh circumstances [...] ges, discretion, and oc [...] ons that moued the p [...] & whether it be custom [...] or a slip by ouersight.
  • 4. Looke to the mind of [...] doer, whether neglige [...] frowardnes, or simpli [...] & want of wisdome bro [...] him to it.

And according to these things wisedome [...] teach a man to measure out correction, or [...] sparing in it. Besides, wisedome will not [...] rect before the fault be euident, or before sh [...] able to winde the offender out of all shif [...] holes. For when the offender is not throu [...] conuinced, he shifteth off the shame of the [...] and of the correction, which is a part of the [...] gation to cure his disease, and besides he wi [...] bold to open his mouth against his Ruler, [...] seeke to bring him into hatred or conte [...] with the rest of the inferiours, for correc [...] vniustly. Wisedome therefore will winke [...] fault a while, & make as though she saw it [...] that she may haue a fitter opportunitie to [...] [Page 55] rect: yea towards some of a good nature wise­dome will shew that she seeth a fault, but yet for loue of the partie, & desire to haue him amend of his owne accord, she will passe ouer the euill. Moreouer, wisedome will neuer reproch the offender by reueiling, or taunting him with the fault, but minister correction in loue, and desire to haue his sore cured, and his credite sal­ued. For the casting of faults in their teeth, and disgracing them, especially before others (which is common in the world) maketh them lay off shame of offending by little and little: where­as if they saw thee carefull of their credit, they would haue much more regard to it them­selues. Lastly, wisedome will auoyde partialitie, and deale with all in the same case after the same manner.

Patience is also needfull, that through anger Patience is a stedfastnesse, in suffering the euils, that come to vs by any worke, so that they can­not discou­rage vs. Phil. 4. 5. or hastines a man do not sight nor chide, before he hath made the fault manifest to the offender: that if it may be, his conscience may be touched for it. Againe, by patience one must heare what the offender can say in his defence, and not dis­daine to heare him modestly alleadging for himselfe: and when his defence is made, by e­quitie to allow, or disalow the same. So did Iob, Iob. 31. 13. And Balaam had no reason to dis­daine the defence of his beast, Num. 22. 30, &c.

This patience also will keepe a man from bitternesse, which might sooner make the par­tie angry, then draw him to amendment; which [Page 56] thing the Apostle would haue auoyded i [...] periours towards those that be vnder the [...] Coloss. 3. 21. Ephes. 6. 4, 9. want of this, many are but a word and a b [...] many first correct and then tell the fault; t [...] lay on loade, or raile, and reuile, braul [...] scolde without measure.

Lastly, this patience will keepe thee [...] immoderate anger, a thing dangerous in [...] recter. For hee that commeth to reform [...] too much anger, shall hardly keepe a m [...] in rebuking, or chastising.

Now for the seuerall kinds of correctio [...] first is Rebuking, which is a sharpe repro [...] a fault committed, measured according [...] nature of the fault. Fxample whereof we h [...] Iacob, Gen. 30. 2. Iob 2. 10. our Sauiour [...] to Peter, Matth. 16. 23. and to Iames and [...] Luk. 9. 55. So Eli, 1. Sam. 2. 23. &c. rebuk [...] sons, but not according to the qualitie of [...] fault, which turned to his, and their ruin [...]

This reproofe may haue some threatni [...] chastisement ioyned with it, if need be: [...] end to make it sincke the deeper. Prou. [...] Be thou very angry when thou pardo [...] fault, saying, that thou for sparing him [...] wilt punish him the sorer if he transgre [...] gaine: But threatnings must not be vaine [...] without effect, but alwaies if amendeme [...] low not, thou must performe what was [...] ned, least thou become light and vaine [...] offenders eyes.

Chastisement is, when with a sharpe rebuke punishment is also laid vpon the offender, ac­cording to discretion.

If any man think fighting vnmeet for Chri­stians, or be loth to foile their hands, lest they should get themselues an ill name; let them know, that Gods ordinance is not a matter of an ill report, but onely amongst fooles, that know not what is good and meete. Now, that household chastisement is agreeable to Gods will, is euident out of the Prouerbs, where the wisedome of God doth very often commend it to vs, as chap. 13. 24. He that spareth the rod ha­teth his sonne: but he that loueth him chasteneth him betimes. Where hee requireth, that it be not deferred till it be too late, that is, till the of­fender be hardened in ill: but giuen in time, before he be past recouerie. Secondly hee saith that it is a fruit of true and pure loue, to correct in due time: and very loue in parents, and care of their children must draw them to it.

Thirdly, he saith, that such parents know not what true loue of children meaneth, but imbrace fondnesse, and foolish pitie in stead of it, who doe spare to correct, when correction is deser­ued.

Fourthly, that this fondnesse and foolish af­fection is indeede hatred, and not loue. The reason why it is to be counted hatred, is set downe, Prou. 19. 18. Chastise thy sonne while there is hope, and let not thy soule spare him, to [Page 58] his destruction. Where hee plainely saith, [...] fond pittying and sparing of children is [...] worke the destruction of them. And is it n [...] token of great hatred to be a meanes of a [...] thers destruction? Else where hee sheweth [...] necessitie of correction, and the good whic [...] doth: Pro. 22. 15. Foolishnes is bound in the [...] of a childe, but the rod of correction shall re [...] it farre from him. As if he should say much f [...] and lewdnes is couched in a childs heart, wh [...] if it be not purged will burst foorth into f [...] enormities, and therefore a purgation is [...] needfull; and what may that be, but the [...] correction?

The same is commanded, Pro. 29. 17. [...] rect thy sonne: where also he sheweth, wha [...] nefit commeth thereby to the parents: He [...] giue thee rest, yea hee will giue pleasures [...] soule: that is, thou shalt be free from so [...] heauines, and many troubles, which many [...] rents haue with vngracious children: and [...] the other side, thou shalt haue much com [...] and delight by him. Great benefit also [...] meth thereby to the children, as he shewe [...] the 15. verse, The rod and correction giue [...] dome, and Chap. 23. 13. 14. Whereas the [...] lect of it bringeth hurt to the child, and to [...] parents, as followeth: A child set at li [...] maketh his mother ashamed. And for seru [...] the Wiseman doth closely shew, how they [...] be dealt with all, where he saith, Prou. 29. [...] [Page 59] He which bringeth vp his seruant delicately from his youth, at length will be depriued of his children. And a little before, verse 19. he saith, A seruant will not be chastised with words: though he vnderstand, yet hee will not answere or re­gard.

These Scriptures shew that God hath put the rod of correction in the hands of the Go­nernours of the familie, by punishment to saue them from destruction; which if the bridle were let loose vnto them, they would run vn­to. Where men and women are content to goo contrarie to their owne nature, and to vndergo ill reports to obey the ordinance of God, there God will giue a blessing, that is, a well ordered familie, wherein all shall be of good hope.

These be the duties, that the chiefe of the familie oweth to them of his familie within The Wiues dutie, tou­ching Christi­an holinesse. To be a fellow helper, is to yeeld help to her husband, especially at home, in all the matters of the familie. 1. Tim. 5. 14. Tit. 2. 5, doores, as touching godlinesse. The Wife also, which is a fellow-helper, hath some things belonging to her to further godlinesse in her familie: as for example, in her selfe to giue ex­ample to her Household of all readie submissi­on to all good & Christian orders, to order her Houshold affaires so carefully that no exercise of religion be hindred, or put out of place, at such time as they should be done: in her hus­bands absence: to see good orders obserued as he hath appoynted: to watch ouer the manners and behauiour of such as be in her house, and to help her husband in spying out euils that are [Page 60] breeding, that by his wisdome they may be [...] uented or cured. Salomon saith of the ve [...] woman, that she ouerseeth the waies of her [...] Pro. 31. 27. verse 26. hold: And a little before, shee openeth her [...] with wisedome, and the Law of grace is i [...] tongue. And S. Paul requireth, that wines, s [...] ally the elder be teachers of good things [...] that they instruct the younger. They may [...] do much good in framing the tender yea [...] their children vnto good, while they be [...] their hands. For euen as a childe cockered [...] made a wanton by the mother will be more [...] tractable, when the father shall seeke to [...] him to good: so on the other side, a child w [...] trained vp by the mother in the young y [...] will be the easilier brought to goodnesse by [...] Fathers godly care. We read, that Timothy [...] made acquainted with the scripture fro [...] little child, by meanes of his godly Mother, [...] Grandmother; a good patterne for christi [...] And marke the proofe: God recompenced [...] godly care exceedingly: for Timothie prou [...] rare young man, of excellent graces, to the g [...] ioy and comfort of his parents. Mothers [...] also poure good liquour into their child [...] tender vessels, the sauour whereof shall s [...] in them a long while after: I meane, they [...] sowe in their mindes the seede of religion [...] godlinesse. These and such like duties, if [...] wife performe constantly, shee shall bring [...] small help to her husband, for the godly [...] [Page 61] [...]ligions ordering of his house. And thus much [...]f that part of household gouernment, which [...]oncerneth godlinesse.

Now we come to the other part, which per­ [...]ines The 2. thing, whereat hous­hold gouern­ment aymeth. to the things of this life: wherein is to be [...]onsidered, what is the dutie of the husband, [...]d of the wife, namely to.

• Take order for
  • Prouision.
  • and
  • Health.

They must take order for prouision for ne­ [...]essaries Many are carefull to liue but very carelesse to liue well. to the maintenance of themselues, and [...]ll withall their charge. These necessaries are [...]ood and rayment. Also care must be had of the [...]ealth of such as be in their families, both to [...]reserue it by rest, and recreation if need be, and [...] restore it if it be hindred, by good looking to [...]ch as are fallen into sicknesse.

That the Gouernours of the familie must [...]ake honest prouision for themselues, and their Prouision. [...]harge, and not liue vpon the Church almes, [...]r by begging, purloyning, borrowing, or cou­ [...]oning, it is most euident by that saying of Saint Paul to Timothie. He that prouideth not for his 1. Tim. 5. 8. [...]wne, and especially for them of his house, hath de­ [...]ied the faith, and is worse then an infidell. And [...]alomon saith, The iust man regardeth the life [...]f his beast: much more of his seruants and chil­dren. Pro. 12. 10.

And as the Spirit of God chargeth vs with his dutie; so hee setteth vs about such things [Page 62] whereby this may be compassed, and for [...] eth vs of those things whereby it may be [...] dered.

The things that hee teacheth vs for the [...] What things. be needfull for the making of prouision. king of this prouision, are first, That euery should hath some honest and good calling, & sh [...] walke diligently in it: that it may bring in ho [...] gaine, whereby necessaries for the familie [...] be prepared.

That euery man must apply himselfe to s [...] A calling. Genes. 3. 19. Calling is our appointed charge and manner of life in some honest worke, where­in we are day-ly to labour, as we may best [...]rofit therein. Eph. 4. 1. [...]. Thes. 2. 12. studie and calling, is so knowne that it need [...] no proofe. In the sweate of thy browes thou s [...] eate thy bread, &c. which condemneth all s [...] as liue of the labours of other men, and the [...] selues take no paines or trauaile, doe no g [...] in the world, benefit not humaine societie [...] way, but deuoure the good creatures of [...] earth, which indeed belong to them that t [...] all the paines. In this rancke doe a number [...] Gentiles in the world march, deuising gay toy [...] which might well be spared; who are but [...] profitable burdens of the earth, that fill vp n [...] ber like Ciphers, who glorie in their sha [...] that is, in their ease, pleasures, and braue [...] where of (if they knew wherto a man was bor [...] they would be ashamed.

These be they for whose maintenance in th [...] iollitie a number are faine to toile very hard [...] fare meanely, and spend their strength to t [...] very skin and bones, and yet can get but [...] slender recompence through their vnmercif [...] [Page 63] exactions. But inough of them: to returne. The good gouernour of a house must be none of these: but he must haue a calling that is good, honest, and lawfull, not onely gainefull to him­selfe, but also holy and profitable to the societie of mankind: for thus much doth Saint Paul comprehend within the compasse of his words, Ephes. 24. 28. But let him labour the thing that is good.

It is not inough to haue a calling though it be neuer so good, but it must be followed, so as it may bring in maintenance for thee, and thine, such as is meete for thy estate.

But how must it be followed? first, with di­ligence: 2. The manner of follovving a calling. for as Salomon saith. Prou. 18. 9. Hee that carieth himselfe slouthfully or loosely in his businesse, is the brother of a great waster: that is, he is another waster, and doth as much as an vn­thrift or spend-good. To diligence belongeth the blessing. Pro. 10. 4. The hand of the diligent maketh rich. and Chap. 12. 11. Hee that tilleth his land, shall be satisfied with meate. Yea, and a large blessing: The soule of the diligent shall be Pro. 13. 4. fatted: that is, hee shall haue aboundantly. And lest that any should say, that in some cal­lings Diligence, is that, by vvhich vve execute as vvel as we can the labour of our calling. 2. Thes. 3. 10. Rom. 12. 11. a man may well thriue, but not in mine: It is said. Pro. 14. 23. In all labour, that is, dili­gent following thy calling, there is abundance. Moreouer, this diligence will bring a man to renowne. Pro. 22. 29. Thou seest, that a diligent man in his businesse standeth before Kings, &c.

The better to kindle the affection vnto [...] Of the enimies [...]o diligence. diligence in following thy calling, consid [...] what is said by the spirit of God of those eu [...] that are enemies vnto it.

Many a man is idle and slothfull because [...] bour Slouth. [...]lothfulnesse [...] a wearinesse [...] tediousnesse [...] any godly, [...]irituall, or [...]uill exercises [...]hich one [...]ught for [...]ods sake to [...]e, for the be­ [...]efit of the [...]mmon- [...]ealth, or for [...]e sustentati­ [...] of himselfe [...]d his family. and toyle is irkesome and painful to hi [...] as Pro. 20. 4. The slothfull will not plow beca [...] of winter: but what is his reward? it followe [...] therefore shall hee beg in sommer, and haue [...] thing. Pouertie is the fruit of slouthfulnes [...] Pro. 18. 4. A slouthfull hand maketh poore. A [...] lest any man should thinke that he could kee [...] away pouertie, at least a great while: it is s [...] in Pro. 24. 34. that it commeth violently, a [...] with great power, and swiftly vpon such a m [...] and hee shall not withstand it: Thy pouer [...] commeth as a light traueller, and thy necessitie [...] an armed man. In the same place also the mea [...] whereby it commeth is expressed. Verse. 3 [...] Hee through folly neglected his ground, a [...] left it vnfenced, and vntilled, and so it yeeld [...] him no increase. Which being there spoken [...] husbandrie may be drawne to a generall, tha [...] let such things lie idle and vnused, which sho [...] bring in commoditie is the high way to p [...] uertie.

The slothfull is further described to be a gr [...] [...]th, glutto­ [...], and prodi­ [...]itie, are the [...]e paths that [...]duct and [...]d men to [...]uertie. wisher, and woulder, but no good household [...] Pro. 13. 4. The sluggard lusteth, but his so [...] hath nought, And againe. All the day l [...] hee wisheth, but his desire is not accomplishe [...] [Page 65] [...]hich wasteth him with sorrow. Besides, he per­ [...]wadeth himselfe that hee hath some sufficient [...]ay or let to withhold him from diligent labor, [...]nd so dare not goe forward, as the Wise man [...]ith, Prouer. 15. 19. The way of the slothfull is a Prou. 26. 13, 14 15, 16. [...]edge of thornes. And in another place he saith, [...]ro. 26. 13. A lion is in the way. But in trueth it [...] ease and lazines that letteth him. As the doore Prou. 26. 14. [...]rneth vpon the hinges, so doeth the sloth­ [...]ll in his bed. And to shew, that such a man is [...] a downe-hill to beggerie, Salomon saith, that [...]e thinketh himselfe very wise in his doing, The Prou. 26. 16. [...]ggard is wiser in his owne conceit, then seuen [...]en that can render a reason. What hope is there [...] sauing of him that the begger catch him [...]t, who pleaseth himselfe in his sloth, which [...]eth summon him to beggery? That also is [...]t to be omitted, that such a sluggard, who suf­ [...]red his owne ground to be ouer growne with [...]ornes and nettles, stones, or thistels, serueth in [...]e world for an example to make other men [...]arie. Vnder this is that same luskishnes which [...]aketh men loue their ease and sleepe, which [...]ingeth forth the same fruit that sloth doeth. [...]e sleeper shall be clothed with rags. Pro. 23. 21. [...]nd therefore the Wise man laboureth to draw [...]en from it. Prou. 20. 13. Loue not sleepe, least [...]ou come to pouertie: open thine eyes, and thou [...]lt be satisfied with bread.

Another enemie to diligence, is, following 2. Idle compa­ny keeping. [...] vaine and idle companie. For though a man [Page 66] be eager minded toward his businesse, yet [...] vaine and idle companie he shall be drawne [...] way to other delights, and lose his good ho [...] and let go the occasion of doing some thing [...] the fit season. Therefore Salomon saith, P [...] 11. 12. The man that followeth the idle is desti [...] of vnderstanding. And againe, that he shall c [...] to no better passe, then the idle man, Pro. 28 [...] He that followeth the idle, shall be filled with [...] uertie. This harme getteth he by haunting [...] company, and lewd persons. For as sweet [...] ters are corrupted and spoyled, when they into waters which are salt, bitter, or vnhols [...] and so loose the vertue thereof: euen so he [...] ioyneth himselfe in friendship, and doth co [...] himselfe in familiaritie with wicked and vn [...] ly None can walke in simpli­citie before God, that de­lighteth in the company of the vngodly. men, becommeth wicked and vngodly h [...] selfe, and is stayned and blemished with [...] vices, although heretofore he had been incli [...] to vertue and godlinesse. For, A little le [...] (saith the Apostle) doth leauen the whole lu [...] 1. Cor. 5. 6.

Pastime also carieth many from their calli [...] and likewise from thrift, Pro. 21. 17. He th [...] ueth 3. Pastime. pastime, shall be a poore man. Which bei [...] punishment threatned of God against tha [...] Lewd pastime causeth naked purses. though a man would be warie of loosing [...] at play, yet the Lord might some other [...] bring him to pouertie, and so punish him fo [...] Thrift consi­steth not in gold, but in grace. corrupt delight in that thing which the S [...] ture hath so branded.

Lastly, vnto true diligence Salomon oppo­seth 4 Great rcckoning. and setteth talking and great reckoning of what they will do. Pro. 14. 23. In all labour there is abundance, but the talke of the lips bringeth only want. For commonly such as make great ac­count of their doings, when it commeth to do­ing, can finde no fit time to begin.

Now, to finish this point of diligence to be vsed in our calling, marke the good husbandry which the spirit of God teacheth. Pro. 27. 23. Be diligent to know the state of thy flocke, and take heed to thy heards, for riches remaine not alwayes. Where hee willeth men not to trust all to ser­uants for the care of their cattel and other com­modities, but to looke diligently to them them­selues. The reason is, for that their riches be not so glewed to them but that if they be not care­fully looked vnto, they will take their leaue and be gone. And so we see it often comes to passe, that they which doe their businesse by others, haue others to thriue for them.

But here peraduenture, some husbands and wiues will say: Ye speake much of good hus­bandry, and good huswiferie? but how would you haue them to be good husbands, and good huswifes, that haue not wherewith to be a good husband, or good huswife on? Whereunto we answere, that good husbandry and good hus­wifery consisteth not so much in hauing much or little, as in the wise, carefull, discreet, & good forecasting of that which God in mercie hath [Page 68] inabled and inriched them with, to see eue [...] thing wel ordered, and imployed to a good e [...] and vse. For we see by experience, that so [...] husbands, and wiues, can so husbandly and h [...] wifely dispose of things, that they will make [...] fairer shew of a little, and cause it to stretch f [...] ther then many can of much. Yea, some can [...] as much with twentie Nobles, as some ot [...] can with twentie or thirtie pounds.

As a calling must be followed with d [...] gence, so also there is wisedome, skill, & dise [...] tion to be vsed in it. For as in lifting of a gr [...] waight, a mightie strong man wanting cunni [...] can not mooue that, though he straine and b [...] himselfe much, which a weake man will [...] with a sleight: so dealing in any calling, so [...] man shall toyle exceedingly much, and yet want of wit and discretion not doe halfe [...] good that another shall with more ease, P [...] 13. 23. Hee that hath a trade, let him learn [...] be cunning in it, and able to goe through [...] it, Prou. 16. 20. And to the end hee may wa [...] on surer ground, let him not disdaine to a [...] aduise and counsel. For the praise of contri [...] matters well by his owne wit is not so grea [...] is the losse and ignominie when for wan [...] counsell a man entreth a wrong course. [...] sides, Salomon doeth commend this wisedo [...] vnto vs often, to take heed of hastinesse, he [...] nesse. and selfe-will, and to beware of [...] weening in our owne reach, Prouerbs 15. [...] [Page 69] Without counsell, thought, that is, intents and purposes, come to nought: but in the multitude of counsell, there is stedsastnes. And 20. 18. Esta­blish thy thoughts by counsell, and by counsell make warre. Whereas on the other side, haste bringeth waste. Whosoeuer is hastie, that is, rashly goeth about his businesse without coun­sell, commeth surely to pouertie, Pro. 21. 5. That is notable, Pro. 29. 20. Seest thou a man hastie in his matters, there is more hope of a foole, then of him. The same is said of the conceited man, Seest thou a man wise in his owne conceit? there is more hope of a foole then of him. Prou. 26. 12. When the Spirit of God doth so carefully com­mend this thing to vs, we must needs thereby see that it is a matter of great necessitie, and of excellent vse. For, as the Prouerbe is, two eyes see more then one. And many times, men see more cleerely in other mens matters, then in their owne. In this case also, it is good to looke to the examples of others, and our owne expe­rience in such like cases; for much light com­meth into a wise mans mind by this window. And to the end, that thou may est make thy vse of experience & examples, when occasion shall serue; it is good to marke things which shall fall out, to obserue the beginnings, proceedings, and euents of matters, and to keep them in mind to stand thee in stead. For he that neuer marketh any thing, it is all one as if he had neuer seen or heard any thing: and such a one must alwaies [Page 70] bee running for counsell in euery light matter, or else may take a wrong course, excep [...] hee can stumble on the right way by good hap [...] This obseruation and pondering of euen [...] with the causes that went before, is the ripene [...] of wit. But idlemindednesse, and carelesse l [...] ting passe of matters maketh an emptinesse i [...] the head of such good things, as make one ma [...] excell another.

Thirdly, in following thy calling, let not i [...] stice, Iustice is a vertue, that yeeldeth to e­uery man his owne. and vpright dealing be forgotten, but [...] der thy dealing by them. If there were no [...] ther, yet this reason should weigh with the [...] that so thou mightest looke to reape good de [...] ling at other mens hands, as it is said, Pro. 21. 2 [...] He that followeth after righteousnesse and mer [...] shall sinde life, righteousnesse and glory. Where [...] such as measure out hard measure to other [...] haue the like measured to them againe, acco [...] ding to the saying of our Sauiour Christ. B [...] sides the riches gotten by ill meanes haue [...] heauie destiny vttered against them: The gath [...] ring of riches by a deceitful tongue is vanitie, toss [...] to and fro of them that seeke death. Pro. 21. 6.

As iustice and equall dealing toward all m [...] must be looked vnto, so God will haue vs no [...] Mercifulnesse is a compassion and fellow-fee­ling of an other mans misery, with best inde­ [...]our (so farre as may be) to omit mercifulnesse, and friendly dealing to [...] poore. Be not then so tied to thy businesse, th [...] thou canst neuer looke out to the necessities [...] others, nor spare time to serue their occasio [...] Among many waies of helping the poo [...] [Page 71] which are commanded, this is one, to goe or comfort, re­lieue and suc­cour him. ride for them, to saue them from wrong, or to further them in their right, to be their mouth to plead for them, when by feare and simplicity they cannot plead for themselues. And toward them especially a sparing hand is forbidden, & that with a sore item, Pro. 21. 13. He that stoppeth Psal. 16. 3. Gal. 6. 10. Heb. 6. 10. and 13. 16. 1. Iohn 3. 16. Prou. 22. 9. his eare at the crying of the poore, he shall also cry and not be heard. And to shew liberalitie (espe­cially to the Saints and faithfull) there is a per­swasion with a sweet promise, Pro. 19. 17. Hee that hath mercy vpon the poore, lendeth vnto the Lord, and the Lord will recompence him that which he hath giuen.

If any feare, that if he tie himselfe so short, as neuer to passe the bounds of equitie, and be­sides open his hand so wide to the poore, he shal neuer liue and thriue of his calling, let him re­member what is written, Pro. 16. 3. Commit thy works to the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be di­rected. And let that promise encourage him to follow the Lord whithersoeuer he calleth, not­withstanding any feare or misdoubt. Besides, let him haue that in minde, which is in Pro. 28. 22. against couetousnesse, and posting to be rich: A man with a wicked eye hasteth to be rich, and knoweth not that pouertie shall come vnto him. And againe in the 20. verse, Hee that maketh haste to be rich, shall not be innocent. Whereto agreeth that of S. Paul, 1. Tim. 6. 9. 10. He that willbe rich falleth into tentation and snares, &c. [Page 72] and the vanitie of riches ill gotten, or ill kep [...] declared, Prou. 13. 11. and 20. 21.

Hereunto men must ioyne Contentati [...] Contentation is a Vertue, whereby a man is well pleased with that estate wherein he is placed. 1. Tim. 6. 6. Phil. 4. 11. 12. Matth. 6. 31. Heb. 13. 5. with that allowance which God as a wise [...] ther that knoweth what is best, maketh v [...] them. For a restlesse, and vncontented mi [...] breedeth haste-making to riches, dryeth vp [...] riuers of liberalitie, and setteth the conscie [...] vpon the racke, and stretcheth it beyond [...] bounds of equitie and iust dealing, when h [...] of gaine is offered. Wherefore Salomon to p [...] uent these euils in men, & to make them to [...] of their present estate, telleth them, that Be [...] is a little with righteousnesse, then great reue [...] without equitie, and the like is in Psal. 37. [...] There is a double reason for this: First, bec [...] store gotten with wrong, breedeth a sore tr [...] ble, sometime of minde and conscience, [...] Esay 33. 1. Prou. 22. 22. 23. Eccles. 5. 7. and 4. 1. sometimes outward, while the right owne [...] the goods suffereth thee not to goe so qui [...] away with them: or God stirreth thee vp enemie mightier then thy selfe, that shall p [...] from thee, as thou didst from another.

The second is, because such haue the [...] tred of many, for that which they purloine, get by wrong and oppression: which a g [...] man would not haue for so small commo [...] Hitherto wee haue shewed what thou [...] looke [...]to in following thy calling. N [...] there follow other things, not vnworthy t [...] thought vpon of him that would prouid [...] [Page 73] his familie well. Though we would not haue a To spare, that thou maiest haue to spend in honestie and necessitie for Gods sake, is vvell done. A thing is soo­ner spared them gotten. man faine himselfe poore, and a niggard, when he hath abundance, as a number doe by why­ning and complaining without cause, who are neither good to the common-wealth, nor kind to themselues: yet it is not wisedome to carrie a higher port and countenance in the world then a mans abilitie will warrant. Such shall be enuied; so long as they doe beare it out by the hard-edge, they shall be laide at for charges, and if through necessitie in the end they be faine to yeeld, they shall be scorned of their enuiers, and little pittied of all others. Wherefore it is wise­dome rather to beare a low saile, and to keepe within compasse, and rather to come short of that thou mightest do, remembring that which is, Prou. 12. 9. He that is despised, and is his owne man, is better then he that boasteth himselfe, and lacketh bread.

Againe, as they which loue to pearke aloft, and desire to be carried with a full sayle by the winde Ambition is an vnlawfull or wicked de­sire of glory, namely, when a man seeketh to be aboue all other in ho­nour, and see­keth to effect the same by vnnecessarie and vniust actions, be­sides his voca­tion, trusting to his owne wisedome and strength. of Ambition, and Vaine-glorie is a certaine disordinate desire to be well thought of, well spoken of, praised, and glorified of men. Ʋaine-glory, rather then to haue sea-roome, doe oftentimes rush vp­on the rocks of want, and there sticke till they sincke: so they, which in feare of such rockes choose to ride with halfe or quarter saile, where they haue not roome at will, are more safe from danger, and may more conueniently prouide against a tempest. Yea, they may so saile, that when God shall remoue them hence, they shall not be constrained to leaue their children to [Page 74] the wide world, which thing nature binde [...] man to haue a care of.

Another rule may be drawne out of th [...] which is Prou. 10. 5. A wise sonne gatheret [...] summer: but hee that sleepeth in haruest is the [...] of confusion. Where hee teacheth, that whe [...] man spieth an opportunitie of honest gaine [...] commoditie, he is to follow that while the [...] serueth: but hee that for a small matter, let [...] slip occasions, and reckoneth of this time, [...] that time, this day, and that day, thinking th [...] to haue more fit opportunitie, that wil bring [...] to nothing.

A good neighbour (saith one) is a go [...] thing. Agreeable to this, Salomon saith. Pro. [...] 17. A friend loueth at all times. And 18. [...] A friend is nearer then a brother. As if [...] should say, there is many a friend that is m [...] kind then a brother, & more readie to doe pl [...] sure then he that is more bound by nature [...] dutie. He saith also Pro. 27. 9. As oyntment [...] perfume reioyce the heart, so doth the sweetne [...] of a mans friend by heartie counsell. That is [...] notable, which is, verse. 17. Iron sharpneth [...] so doth a man the face of his friend: to wit; [...] cause mutuall communication of friends [...] with another quickneth the spirit, and cheer [...] the heart.

All these places containe motiues, to gi [...] heede to this exhortation. Verse, 10. Th [...] owne friend, and thy fathers friend fors [...] [Page 75] not, neither enter into thy brothers house in the day of thy calamitie: for better is a neighbour that is neere, then a brother that is far off. In the end of the eighteenth Chapter. verse. 24. hee sheweth how a man shall preserue this treasure which is so good. A man that hath friends, must shew himselfe friendly. Hereto agreeth that of the heathen: he that would haue a good neighbour, must be a good neighbour. In the [...]4. verse. 27. Hee seemeth to giue a rule for the [...]ight order of managing a mans Household af­faires; saying: Prepare thy worke without; and make readie thy things in the field, and afterward [...]hou maiest build thine house. As though hee should say, first looke after things as are need­full and necessarie for house-keeping, as that [...]hou maiest haue prouision, &c: and then, when [...]hat is prouided for, thou maist fall a trimming [...]p of thy house. But many fooles begin first to [...]decke their houses, before they lay for necessa­ [...]ies, and are faine afterwards to sell their orna­ments with losse, to prouide more necessarie matters. It is a good point of wisedome, to [...]eare the want of that longest, which may best [...]e spared.

The last rule is, that a good gouernour of a Sparing is good getting, and the grea­test rent that one can haue. [...]amilie, for the better maintenance of his fami­ [...]ie, must be frugal, or (to speake english) a good [...]usband, that is sparing and sauing, and that he [...]o order and moderate himselfe, that if his goods and reuenues be not sufficient: for him and his [Page 78] charge, hee make himselfe sufficient fo [...] goods, and dispose of himselfe accordin [...] the old prouerbe: So to cut his coate ac [...] ding to his cloth, and to eate within his o [...] Tether. Yet wee would not haue him pinc [...] or niggardly, and so dried vp for liberalitie, nothing should be wroong from him for [...] vses. That is too farre on the left hand, as [...] digalitie is on the right. But where there i [...] iust cause to spend or lay out, and it might [...] well spared, there we would haue him saue, his riches be the Lords goods, which God [...] made him a steward of. When the Lord th [...] fore wils him to open his hand, there let him [...] be straight handed: but where nothing bu [...] ruly lusts and pomp, or vaine glory, bid [...] draw, there is hee to hold fast: for hee is [...] steward, that will lay out his masters g [...] where there is no neede, or where lesse w [...] serue. There be many, who of a greedy an [...] uetous mind, will easily imbrace this prece [...] sparing: but as they do it with a wrong pu [...] so they faile in the matters wherein they sh [...] saue and be sparing. Many misers pinch [...] seruants in their meate and drinke, allo [...] them not inough, or not good inough, and they take to bee frugalitie and thrift: wh [...] to prancke, and pricke vp themselues in [...] uery, and that sometimes about their ca [...] they are very lauish. This is no more to be [...] ted frugalitie, or good husbandrie, then to [...] [Page 79] poore man to giue to the rich, is true liberalitie. When therefore thou thinkest of sparing, let not the greedie desire of gathering draw thee to it, but conscience of well vsing that which God hath lent thee. And this mind will draw thee to spare and saue onely there, where it may be well done, and not there wherein conscience thou oughtest to spend. Now the better to further our selues in this honest thriftinesse, or frugality, which is called of one a great reuenew: the occa­sions of needlesse expences must be auoided. Loue not mirth and pastime, for they haue oft occasion of expences. Againe, they cause losse of time, and neglect of businesse at home: yea, and often men doe buy their pleasures with losse in their goods, while retchlesse masters haue either the euish, or carelesse seruants. Ther­fore Salomon telleth such their fortune, Pro. 21. 17. He that loueth mirth or pastime will be a poore man.

Secondly, a sweet tooth, and a fare mouth, that is, daintinesse, or choicenesse in diet is an enimie to frugalitie, a needlesse charge, to de­light the taste for a moment, whereas whole­some meat and drinke, would be more ease for the purse, and more healthfull for the bodie. He that loueth Wine and Oyle, that is, sweet deli­cats for his sences, will not be rich Pro. 21. 17.

In this ranke doth march Gluttonie: I meane Gluttonie is a vice, when any doth cram and fill bis bodie cramming and pampering the bodie, and also drunkennesse. These dull the mind and wit, [Page 78] darken reason, and make a [...]an become s [...] tish. Besides, they stuffe the body with gro [...] humours, which breed diseases, & diseases b [...] other charges for phisicke, or at least, losse [...] time, and neglect of businesse, which [...] cost a man as much as his diet wherein [...] was excessiue: so that these euils haue do [...] expences.

To be briefe in this point, God hauing [...] Drunkennesse is a vice, when any doth gull in ouermuch drinke. the destinie of the drunkard, and the glutt [...] namely, that many euils, and namely pouer [...] shall betide them, Pro. 23. 21. 29, 30. 31. [...] some way or other he will effect his iudgeme [...] For no one peece of his word shall fall to [...] ground.

A great backfriend to thrift is good-fello [...] ship, and companie keeping: for it hath losse [...] time, and draweth thee away from thy calli [...] and hindereth the due ouerseeing of good h [...] bands affaires: it maketh a man ouer slippe [...] casions of doing good things in a due and [...] season: besides, it draweth home others to th [...] house, or draweth thee to others houses, as T [...] uernes, Alehouses, and such like, the haunti [...] whereof is a thing of no good report: and it m [...] keth thee lauish in spending, or else it is no go [...] fellowship, (as they say) and by meanes there [...] thou shalt feede the gluttons, and spend that vpon others, which belongeth to thine owne f [...] milie: which Salomon saith, Pro. 28. 7. is a sha [...] to thy father.

Thy company keeping hath many other enormities: He that toucheth pitch, shalbe defiled therewith. And as thou art a partie with him in his euils, so shalt thou be also in his punishment. The companion of fooles shall be afflicted. Where­fore Prou. 13. 20. auoide such, and rather follow the wise: He that walketh with the wise, shall be wise: who are they? euen they that haue the lippes of knowledge, whose words teach good things. But such whose talke is nothing but froth, their words vnsa­uourie, bringing no good to the hearer though there be no outward euill in their liues, yet they must not be admitted for companions, further then vpon some vrgent occasion thou must deale with them: Pro. 14. 7. Depart from the foolish man, when thou perceiuest not in him the lips of knowledge.

As to haue a faithfull friend, is a matter auaile­able to thrift; so by some friends a man may be endammaged. There is a friendship, which is very costly, and chargeable to maintaine. Hee that desireth familiaritie with great men, must haue other things suteable; as costly apparell, well trimmed houses, often inuitings to ban­kets to recompence their kindnes, he must fol­low their humours, and not sticke to neglect his affaires to keepe them company.

This wlll cost a man sweetly, but what shall hee gaine? A friendly countenance, before his face, and perhaps a drie floute behind his back, especially if things go not well with him for the [Page 82] world: then oh it is pitie, a frank-hearted ma [...] no bodies foe but his owne, and such like, S [...] lomon giueth thee warning of this kind of frie [...] ship. Pro. 23. 1. 2. 3.

There is another mans friendship, whi [...] Salomon would haue thee to auoide, as hurtf [...] vnto thee, Pro. 22. 24. Make no friendship [...] an angrie man, neither goe with the furious. T [...] cholericke man, though neuer so good a fello [...] while he is pleased, yet is soone turned to h [...] thee. And no heauier foe, then he that w [...] friend: which Salomon declareth, A brot [...] offended is harder to winne then a strong Ci [...] and their contentions are like the barre of a P [...] lace. If a man could alwaies keepe in with [...] angry man (which cannot be done with [...] putting vp many iniures) yet may that b [...] hurtfull. For the Wise man addeth, Least th [...] learne his waies, that is, become like to him [...] furiousnes, and that is as hurtfull on the oth [...] side. For the furious man aboundeth in tr [...] gressions, Prou. 29. 22. which doe often cost him the setti [...] on, euen from men, who being by his rage hu [...] or reproched, doe watch their occasions [...] worke him some woe. Whereupon we say i [...] common prouerb: The angry man neuer [...] teth woe. There be also Trencher-friends, w [...] to winne fauour and good-will, will smooth in words, fawne, and glauer: they will say as y [...] say, and bring you tales of your enemie, so [...] feed your humour, that hee may winde with [...] [Page 81] you: a beast that biteth sorest of all tame beasts. For while a simple-hearted man suspecteth no hurt, he watcheth his occasions to speede him­selfe of a bootie: a matter, that by the counsell of the holy Ghost off repeated in the Prouerbs, is as carefully to be auoided, as it is hurtfull to a mans estate. If he can doe none of these, yet he hath not lost his labour: for hee had many a good welcome for his faire talke. And by often resorting to thy house, he hath furnished him­selfe with some thing to discredit thee, except thou hast walked marueilous warily, which a man can hardly doe before flatterers.

To end this matter of friendship, haue some neere friends but not many. Choose the best natured, and the best graced, that is, such as be­sides single-heartednes, and plaine simplicitie, are by grace brought to haue conscience of their dealing. And least vnder a shew of simpli­citie, wilinesse should be hid, trie before you trust, and grow into familiaritie not all at a push, but by steps. Tell things of no great se­crecie, as secrets to trie their taciturnitie. Be not ouer credulous vpon sight of a little kindnesse, to account them amongst thy neerest friends. Many haue been wiped of their commodities, by falsehood in fellowship. Some haue beene betraied by vntrustie friends, and brought into great troubles. Many opening their mindes to blabs that can keepe nothing, haue their purposes openly knowne and scanned before [Page 82] [...] [Page 81] [...] [Page 82] they can compasse them, and so are often [...] preuented through the malice of their ene [...] Wherefore, except a man can finde a fait [...] friend indeed, it is good to remember the [...] saying, My secrets to my selfe. Where [...] common prouerbe answereth: Two may [...] counsell, if one be away. The wise man ascri [...] it to folly, to powre out a mans secrets lig [...] The foole powreth out all his minde, but the Prou. 29. 11. man keepeth it in.

As hurt commeth by some friends, so by enemies many are sore annoyed. [...] charges in lawing, and other troubles be [...] in the world, through enmitie? Wherefor [...] good wisedome, by all good meanes to a [...] breaches, which breed enmitie: and by all f [...] ly, iust and wife dealing to keepe peace & [...] will, euen with the meanest. The weake [...] mie is not to be contemned. It shall goe [...] but at one time or other, hee will worke some displeasure: at least his mouth sha [...] waies be open to speake ill, to misconst [...] actions, and to blaze abroad thy infirmitie [...] scapes.

He that would haue no enimies must himselfe none, by vniust, vnkind, or vn [...] bourly dealing: but he must rather by c [...] ousnes of speech, helpfulnes, and good [...] bourhood win the loue and liking of men: [...] man may be too wise in this point. Many [...] loth to incurre any mans displeasure, w [...] [Page 83] seeke to vphold right and equitie, they will not speake for the poore, nor stand out to maintaine Gods cause, when he is dishonoured by open sin, as swearing, lying, rayling, and such like. Many to keepe in with all, vse all companies a­like: for auoyding a mans companie breedeth a grudge.

But the good will of men is neuer to be purchased with forsaking of dutie. Such things as may iustly be ill taken auoyde for peace sake. Whereof the Wiseman noteth some: as medling in other mens matters: He that medleth Prou. 26. 17. with a strife that belongeth not to him is as he that taketh a dog by the eares: that is, casteth himselfe into dangers.

2. Be not hastie to goe to Law, no not in a right cause, but agree at home. For besides that a man doeth seldome scape without great losse, (in which respect it is also to be auoided, as an enemie to thrift) thy neighbour is openly put to reproch, he becommeth thy mortall enemie and will alwaies watch to doe thee hurt.

3. Sometime to seeke reuerence of a wrong Prau. 20. 22. 24▪ 25. breedeth greater malice in the authour of the wrong, and maketh him double it; as a man spurreth his horse for kicking, when he was spurred. Say not, I will recompence euill: but wait [...]pon the Lord, and he will saue thee.

4. Oft haunting of another mans house, may [...]ring thee into mislike: wherefore the Wise­ [...]an saith, Withdraw thy foote from thy neigh­bours Prou. 25. 17. [Page 84] house, least he be wearie of thee, and hate thee. [...] by carefull auoyding of all iust occasions th [...] canst not auoyde ill will (as the world loue [...] none but her owne) neuer seeke to win fauo [...] by departing from dutie, but commit thy se [...] to God, and turne thy minde to make vse [...] thine enimie. Let enmitie, which is alway [...] prying and seeking occasions to hurt by w [...] or deed, make thee to walke, not more close [...] but more vprightly: and then mayst thou d [...] thine enimie: For he that walketh vprightly, [...] keth Prou. 10. 9. boldly.

Another enimie to thrift, (which is als [...] breaker of peace and good will among men) much borrowing. He that is to borrow d [...] spend much time, and let slip many occasi [...] of doing his busines in the due season: he [...] repay in better measure then hee borrowed else ill words, or ill will, will follow. If it [...] matter of any value which is borrowed, the [...] Salomon saith, The borrower is seruant to the [...] der: Prou. 22. 7. that is, beholding to him, and in his [...] ger. The thriftiest men loue least to be b [...] den to others, and therefore seldome seeke [...] often refuse, euen when they be offered [...] ceiue benefits at other mens hands. He th [...] eth a borrowing, goeth a sorrowing. And [...] denial he receiueth, where he thinketh he sh [...] speed, is the seede of grudge in the mind o [...] denier, and of him who is denied. But of borrowing, to borrow vpon vsurie is the de [...] [Page 85] buying, and the rankest poyson to thrift. When Dauid would wish a sore plague to his enimy, hee prayeth that he may be giuen into the vsurers hands: Let the vsurer eate him vp. If the Psal. 109. 11. vsurer be a deuourer: wo be to them that come in his hands.

To auoide borrowing, a good husband must cut off all vnnecessary expences, that hee may haue all necessaries in his house. To auoid bor­rowing of money, take heede of suertiship, of dealing in bargaines, which you are not fully a­ble to compasse of dealing with many things, and hauing too many yrons in the fire at once. Looke how you may compasse matters, before you enterprise them. Prouide long before a­gainst any day of payment, and haue not mo­ny to seeke vpon the sodaine: for that driues a man to borrowing, yea to vsurie, or to sell Robin Hoods peny-worths.

Besides, he must keepe none in his house idle, or halfe set to worke; none more then needs must. Let euery one haue his charge, that will throughly occupie him: also looke that they do their taskes euery one in his place; and haue an often eie vnto them, whether they haue done as they should doe. The masters eie maketh a fat horse: so also the mistris eie maketh a friend­ly dairie. Except you haue rare seruants, and such as truly feare God, and haue good consci­ences, trust them not further then you see them, except necessitie driue you.

Hitherto of the duties that be belonging [...] [...]he wiues du­ [...] touching [...]e things of [...]is life. the chiefe ruler of the familie, that is, the h [...] band, touching honest prouision for it. Ne [...] seeing that God hath ioyned the wife to h [...] husband as an helper, she must helpe him in th [...] prouision for her family, so much as lieth in [...] power, and is meet for her to doe. And indee [...] her industrie and wisedome may doe so mu [...] herein, that though her husband should [...] much wanting in his dutie, yet she might ho [...] in the goale. Thus many haue done, and so [...] lomon saith the wise woman will doe: A [...] [...]ou. 14. 1. woman buildeth her house. But it is not eue [...] womans case, because that all are not wise, as [...] that Salomon speaketh of. This wise woman [...] else where called a gracious woman, Prou. 11. 1 [...] And a vertuous woman, Prou. 12. 4. because m [...] ny graces and vertues meete together in her.

• For she is
  • To her husband dutifull, faithf [...] and louing.
    [...]utifulnesse or [...]tisull will, is [...]at which [...]th shine in [...]e declaration [...]d perfor­ [...]nce of du­ [...]s.
  • Towards those of her fam [...] wise and prudent.
  • In her businesse, diligent [...] painefull.
  • Towards her neighbour, mod [...] humble, kind, and quiet.

First, if she be not subiect to her husband let him rule all the household, especially o [...] ward affaires: if she will make against hi [...] and seeke to haue her owne waies, there will [...] doing and vndoing. Things will go backw [...] [Page 87] the house will come to ruine: for God will not blesse where his ordinance is not obeyed. This is allowable, that she may in modest sort shew her minde; and a wise husband will not dis­daine to heare her aduise, and follow it also, if it be good. But when her way is not liked of, though it be the best way, she may not there­upon set all at sixe and seuen, with what should I labour and trauaile? I see my husband ta­keth such wayes, that he will bring all to no­thing.

This were nothing else, but when shee see­eth the house falling, to helpe to pull it downe faster. Salomon saith, The wise woman buildeth her house; much more then doeth she vnder­prop it, and hold it vp, that by her husbands vn­discreet dealing it be not pulled downe. Shee must not thinke her selfe freed from dutie, be­cause he walketh not in his dutie, but hold her place, and labour for her part to vphold all: and so God will either blesse the worke of her hands, to the maintenance of the house; or giue her husband more wisedome and care, or else giue her a contented minde with a low estate, which is great riches. One point of subiection, is to be content with such apparell and outward port, as her husbands estate can allow her. They faile in this; who by importunitie and dis­quietnesse wring from their husbands more, then hee can well cut out of his reuenues, or gettings.

It is a part of vnfaithfulnesse secretly [...]o [...] 2. Faithfull. loyne and powle from him, for to prank [...] her children, or her selfe, her house and c [...] bers in brauerie: and besides, it is a close [...] mining of her house.

Loue and peaceablenesse in the wif [...] wards 3. Louing. Loue is a natu­rall affection of the mind, infla­ming all the powers of the Louer, with willing dutie towards the beloued. her husband, is auaileable for the [...] of the familie. For where they agree lo [...] there they counting the good of the one [...] nefit of the other, doe ioyntly watch agai [...] such things in their family as might e [...] mage it. There the seruants knowing, t [...] pleasing one they shall please both, and [...] trariwise, be carefull in all things, to deale [...] whereas diuision in the gouernours m [...] partaking in the seruants, and then they not for pleasing, but onely that side, which affect: and such kinde of seruice is but [...] beneficiall to thriuing. It can hardly be [...] ded, but there will be some squaring a [...] uersitie betweene the man and his wife they must labour to compose such [...] priuately and quickly, that they grow [...] breaches, for they be dangerous to thrif [...] there be therefore reasonings secretly be [...] themselues, of such matters as might br [...] skarre: but let them be soone ended af [...] occasion is offered, before the mindes be [...] exasperated. Let there be no hard wor [...] either side, nor opening of old matters. [...] be done priuately betweene themselues▪ [...] [Page 89] not before children, or seruants: for they will not sticke to carie tales, to please the humours of the partie to whom they are most affected. Besides, they will spie your infirmities & grow to a lesse regard of you, and they will blaze a­broad such matters to your discredit.

Now for her behauiour towards her seruants A good hus­wife is a great patrimonie, and she is most honourable, that is most ho­nest and godly. A good sauer is as good as a good getter. and children, if it be prudent and with wise­dome, it doth much good in a house: but it containeth many points. That which her care for the most part tendeth vnto, is sauing. She that will be a good sauer, must not be a slender huswife, but skilfull in all points, whereof shee shall haue vse in her familie. She must not let her maides haue their owne waies, for want of skill: but shee must be able to direct and pre­scribe, what, and how, in euery busines. Where she hath little skill, by reason of her education, she must be carefull by conferring, and mar­king to learne skil, against she is to deale in such things, that shee may be able to direct her ser­uants, and to finde them out when they haue done amisse.

She must haue a good forecast to contriue As a word spoken in his place, is like apples of gold with pictures of siluer. Pro. 25. 11. Euen so is a b [...] sines or wor [...] done in a fit and due time. and dispatch things in due time, and good or­der, that necessaries be not wanting when they should be vsed, and confusion doe not make more labour then is needfull. She must be wise, to marke the nature of her seruants and chil­dren, to deale with them as their natures re­quire, for the training of them to her hand.

All must not be dealt with one [...] and yet many haue no way but one to [...] with all: and that is chiding, and br [...] which they fall to vpon euerie occasio [...] that wearieth seruants, and maketh [...] chaunges, discourageth children, and m [...] both carelesse, whether they doe their du [...] no: yea it breedeth stubbornnes, frowa [...] and contempt in their mindes. She mu [...] wise, to marke and see what needles bur [...] vnnecessarie expences and losses there do [...] on occasions fall out within doores, an [...] uent such occasions afterwards. Shee [...] know the best waies of doing things to [...] test vse, with least charges. Briefly, she [...] know which way to saue a penny, and lay [...] her to saue it, for many a little maketh a [...] deale. She must know what is meete for [...] uants, what for workemen and what not: [...] is meete for ordinarie, and what is mee [...] strangers. Aboue all, shee must know ho [...] keepe within her compasse, and yet to [...] the reproch of a pincher, she must know [...] seruants may doe within the compasse [...] much time, and what is aboue their stre [...] She must haue a diligent eye to the beha [...] of her seruants, what meetings and gree [...] what tickings and toyings, and what w [...] and countenances there be betweene men [...] maides, least such matters being neglected, [...] follow wantonnes, yea folly within their h [...] [Page 75] [...]hich is a great blemish to the Gouernours.

In her businesse she must be diligent & Paine­ [...]ull. Painefulnes is a labour or in­deuour vnto wearines, to bring any thing to passe. Hitherto belongeth that Pro. 31. 15. She [...]seth before day: and verse 18. Her candle is not [...]ut out by night. She borroweth of the morning [...]nd the euening, for to dispatch her businesse. [...]hen she is vp, doth shee sit downe and cap a [...]oole? No, she looketh that her seruants haue [...]eir necessaries, that they may go soone to their [...]orke: she setteth her maides to worke: and [...]sketh them, to keepe them occupied: yea, she [...]ffereth none to be idle in her house, but either [...]oing somewhat that is profitable, or else lear­ [...]ing somewhat that is meete for them. She must [...]ot thinke to sit and command, but she must be [...]stirrer in euerie place, to ouer see whether dutie [...]e done of all hands, and that in good sort, yea, [...]nd to quicken the diligence of her family: and [...]hat things may be well done, she must be at [...]n end of euery great worke, sometimes setting [...]o her hands to encourage the doer, sometimes [...]ently teaching, sometimes commending, [...]ometimes speaking faire, but neuer brawling: [...]ometimes shewing what is amisse in gentle [...]anguage, letting them see what losse com­ [...]eth by ill dooing of a thing: sometimes [...]riendly putting them in minde, how by slouth, [...]orgetfulnesse, or sluttishnesse they shall get an [...]ll name for their seruice, and so become turne- [...]waies from euery good house. She must lay [...] diligent eye to her household-stuffe in euerie [Page 92] roome, that nothing be embezelled a [...] thing spoiled or lost for want of look [...] nothing marde by ill vsage, nothing [...] by more vsing then is needfull, noth [...] of place. For things cast aside, are de [...] be stolen, and then there followeth [...] table suspitions, which breed much [...] nesse. And though nice Dames thi [...] vnseemely thing for them to soyle th [...] about any household matters, (and th [...] they doe any thing, it is but pricking of [...] yet the vertuous woman (as Prou. 31. 1 [...] deth her loynes with strength, and stre [...] her armes: that is, shee setteth her self [...] fully about some worke that is profitab [...] she selleth it afterwards, verse 24. Yea, [...] ticular worke is described: Shee seeke [...] and Flaxe, &c. Shee putteth her ha [...] wheele and her hands handle the spin [...] maketh Carpets. The meaning is: th [...] teth some matter to worke on, that s [...] exercise her selfe and her familie in, [...] not some idle toy, to make the world g [...] all, but some matter of good vse: H [...] is cloathed with double, and her H [...] knowne in the gate, hee is so comely a [...] apparrelled by her diligence at home, [...] is in regard among men, and knowne [...] goeth.

But what neede such as can liue [...] Obiection. lands, to labour with their hands?

What neede had the woman that Salomon Answere. [...]eaketh of? The conscience of doing good in [...]he world should draw them to doe that which [...]o need driueth them vnto. Remember that the [...]ertuous woman stretcheth out her hand to the [...]oore and needie, Pro. 31. 20. She giueth not of [...]er husbands, she giueth of her owne: she found [...]way to doe good without the hurt of her hus­ [...]and. S. Paul requireth, that women should aray 1. Tim. 2. 10. [...]hemselues with good workes, the comeliest [...]rnament in the world, if women had spirituall [...]eies, to discerne it. Dorcas in the Actes, teach­eth Acts 9, 36. wiues how to get this aray, for shee made [...] garments to cloath the naked and the poore. Thus might women finde how to set them­selues a worke, though they could liue of their owne. But for such as haue but a meane allow­ance, God thereby sheweth, that he will haue them occupy themselues in some honest labour to keepe them from idlenesse, and the euils that issue there-from. They therefore must labour, if not to sell cloth, as Salomons woman did, nor to cloath the poore, as Dorcas did; yet to cloath her familie, that they may not care for the cold. Let her auoid such occasions, as may draw her from her calling. She must shake off slouth, and loue of ease: she must auoid gosseping, further then the law of good neighbourhood doth require. S. Paul would haue a woman a good home keeper. The vertuous woman is neuer so well, as when she is in the middest of her affaires.

She that much frequenteth m [...] gosseps seldome commeth better ho [...] count it a disgrace to come much ab [...] they should be counted gosseps, wh [...] is become odious: but they must [...] lers come home to them, to bring th [...] and to hold them in a tale, lest they [...] thought to be idle without a cause. [...] ceiue not how time runneth, nor h [...] wardly their busines goeth forward w [...] sit idle. They know not, that great tale [...] be as great carriers, and that such m [...] gaine of carrying, & recarrying. The [...] man will be warie, whom shee admi [...] her house to sit long there, knowing [...] occupation is but to marke and carrie. T [...] her neighbours she is not sowre, but co [...] not disdainefull to the basest, but affa [...] modestie: no scorner, nor giber, but [...] with infirmities, and making the best of [...] not readie to stomacke them for euer [...] matter, and so to looke big, but passing [...] fences for vnities sake; not angrie, bu [...] not bold, but bashfull: not full of word [...] ring out all in her mind, & babling of he [...] hold matters, that were more fitter to [...] cealed, but speaking vpon good occasi [...] that with discretion. Let her heare and s [...] say the best, and yet let her soone bre [...] talke with such in whom shee percei [...] wisedome, nor sauour of grace. Let he [...] [Page 79] [...]ght to beleeue reports, nor readie to tell them [...]gaine to fill the time with talke: for Silence is [...]rre better, then such vnsauorie talke. Let her Silence is a grauitie, when she abstaineth and holdeth her peace from speaking when it doth not become her to speake. [...]ot be churlish, but helpefull in all things to [...]euent breaches; or else to make them vp a­ [...]ine, if by the way wardnesse of others there be [...]y made. Let her not be enuious, but glad of [...]e good of others, not fond of euery thing that [...]e seeth her neighbours haue, but wisely con­ [...]dering what is meet for her selfe, and what her [...]ate will beare. Let her not be gawish in appa­ [...]ll, but sober and modest: not nice nor coy, [...]ut handsome and huswifelike: no talker of [...]her mens matters, not giuen to speake ill of [...]y for feare of the like measure. Math. 7. 2.

1. The dutie of the Husba [...] towards his Wife.

THis dutie consisteth s [...] in these three points.

First, that hee liue wi [...] wife discreetly, according knowledge.

Secondly, that hee [...] bitter, fierce, and cruell vnto her.

Thirdly, that hee loue, cherish, and [...] his wife, euen as his owne bodie, and as [...] loued the Church, and gaue himselfe f [...] sanctifie it.

But before wee shall speake of these [...] points, we will a little touch the origin [...] beginning of holy Wedlocke: what it is, [...] where, how, and of whom it was institu [...] ordained.

Wedlocke or Matrimonie, is a lawfull [...] What Wed­locke is. and vnto God an acceptable Mat. 19. 5. 6. yoking a [...] ning together of Gen. 1. 27. 1. Cor. 6. 16. Ephes. 5. 31. Pro. 5. 18. 19. 20. one man, and one w [...] with the good consent of them both: to t [...] that they may dwell together in friendsh [...] honestie, one helping and comforting the [...] eschewing whoredome, and all vnclea [...] [Page 97] bringing vp their children in the feare of God: or it is a coupling together of two persons into one flesh, according vnto the ordinance of God; not to be broken but so to continue during the life of either of them, Gen. 2. 24. Malach. 2. 14. Rom. 7. 3.

By yoking, ioyning, or coupling, is meant, Yoking and dwelling toge­ther what it is. not onely outward dwelling together of the maried folkes, as to be ordinarily in a dwelling place for the better performance of mutual du­ties each to other, Mat. 1. 18. 1. Cor. 7. 10, 12. 13. 1. Pet, 3. 7. Ruth 4. 11. 12. but also an vni­forme agreement of mind, and a common par­ [...]icipation of body and goods; for as much as [...]he Lord saith, that they two shall be one flesh, that [...]s, one body. This is to be remembred, that Gen. 51. 2, 24. Matrimonie or Wedlocke must not onely be a [...]oupling together, but also it must be such a [...]oupling together as commeth of God, and [...]s not contrary to his word and will. For there [...]e some mariages made, whom God coupleth [...]ot together, but carnall lust, beautie, riches, [...]oods, and lands, flatterie, and friendship. In [...]uch mariages God is not thought vpon, and [...]herefore they sin the more against him. These [...]nd such like mariages be disliked & condem­ [...]ed in the Scripture, Gene. 6. 12, &c. Matt. 24, [...]8, 39. God himselfe did appoint and ordaine [...]atrimonie in Paradice, so that hee is the au­ [...]hor of the same, Gen. 2. 20. Yea and our Sa­ [...]iour Christ himselfe (who was the very natural [Page 98] sonne of God) being borne in wedlocke though of a pure Virgin) did honor and [...] mend Matrimonie, while he did vouchs [...] shew his first miracle (Ioh. 2. 1.) at a ma [...] whereby he did declare, that the Lord is [...] make the bitternes of mariage sweet, a [...] scarcitie thereof to abound with plentie, [...] the Apostle giueth this excellent title to [...] age, saying, that it is Mariage ho­nourable. 1. First, for the Authour, which is God. 2. For the time which was du­ring the state of Adams in­nocencie. 3. For the place, which was paradice. [...] Gen. 2. 24. Matth. 19. 5. Marke 10 7. 1. Cor. 6. 16. Ephes. 5. 31. Honourable am [...] Hebr. 13. 4. that is, among all estates, [...] nations. Matrimonie then being an indiff [...] bond and knot whereby the husband a [...] are fastened together by the ordinance of [...] is ^e farre straighter then any other coni [...] in the societie of mankind. Insomuch [...] a lesse offence for a man to ^f forsake fath [...] mother, and to leaue them succourles [...] notwithstanding ought by Gods comm [...] ment to be honoured) then it is for him [...] the like toward his lawfull maried wife. [...] fore let them looke well what they doe, [...] readie for light and small causes to sepa [...] and wife: seeing that Christ himselfe sai [...] 19. 9. that whosoeuer is separated fr [...] wife, sauing for whoredome, and marri [...] ther, committeth adulterie.

This is a thing worthy to be reme [...] both on the behalfe of the Suter and W [...] also on her part that is wooed: namely t [...] deale plainly and faithfully one with the [...] and not guilefully, and craftily goe [...] [Page 99] deceiue one the other, in body or goods. For so doing, they shall neuer vse one the other so louingly, and commodiously, as they hoped & desired they might; when the one hath fraudu­lently, and deceitfully inticed and beguiled the other, either in body or substance: for naturally we hate him, or her that doth beguile vs. Nei­ther is there any thing that displeaseth a man or woman more then to lacke and faile of the thing they both hoped and looked for. And therefore it were conuenient, and also much bet­ter, that both parties should disclose the one to the other, the imperfections, infirmities, and wants, in either of their bodies, as also the me­diocritie and meannesse of their goods and substance, as in trueth it is: yea though it should be with the perill and losse one of the other, ra­ther then the one to obtaine and get the other with fraud, guile and discord.

But before wee shall come to speake of the causes of mariage, we purpose (God so willing) briefly to shew, how euery one that entendeth to marrie should chuse him a meet, fit, and ho­nest mate: for there lyeth much weight in the Gen. 2. 18. wise election and choise of a Wife. As he that will plant any thing, doth first consider the na­ture of the ground, in the which he mindeth to plant: euen so much more ought a man to haue respect to the condition of the woman, out of whom he desireth to plant children, the fruites of honestie and welfare.

The first thing that is to be rememb [...] Such as are of kindred in the flesh, may not contract ma­trimonie. such a one as mindeth to marrie, is, that he [...] not chuse his wife within such degrees of [...] sanguinitie and affinitie, as are by Leui. 18. 6. &c. God forbidden.

Secondly, Deut. 7. 3. 2. Cor. 6. 14. 15, &c. Religion and Faith must b [...] sidered, least he make diuorce of the true or bring it into perill. For although he [...] himselfe as wise as 1. King. 11. 4. Salomon, and as s [...] Iudg. 16. 17. 18. Sampson, yet may he be ouercome as the [...] Therefore great aduertisement before [...] to be taken in this behalfe, least afterward [...] much griefe and sorrow of heart, he do [...] repent.

Now if any that hath matched himse [...] a wife that is an infidell, irreligious, or of [...] rupt religion, would put her away for t [...] ter, herein he deceiueth himselfe, as the A [...] manifestly proueth. For wee must put [...] rence 1. Cor. 7. 12. 13. 1. Pet. 3. 11. betweene that mariage that is m [...] done already, and that which is yet to do [...] fore hee that is snared and matched with wife, as is either froward, wayward, or e [...] soned with superstition and poperie, i [...] case must call vpon God, and liue in his [...] faithfulnesse, in patience, with discretion [...] ly counsell labouring to win her from th [...] For like as the Husbandman doth wi [...] labour and diligence till that ground w [...] hath once taken to farme, although it b [...] so full of faults: as if it be drie, if it brin [...] [Page 101] weeds, brambles, or briers; or though it cannot beare much wet; yet through good husbandry he winneth fruit thereof: euen so in like maner, he that hath maried a wife that is irreligious or froward, if he shall vse like diligence to instruct and order her minde, if he diligently and cour­teously apply himselfe to weede away by little and little the noysome weeds out of her minde, both by holesome and godly precepts, and by Christian conuersation; it can not be but in time he shall feele the pleasant fruit thereof, to both their comforts. Euery one therefore that purposeth to marry, ought also to remember that there be three maner of riches in man.

• 1. The riches of the minde.
  Three maner of riches in man.
• 2. The riches of the body.
• 3. The riches of temporall substance.

The best and the most precious are the riches of the minde: as without which, the other two are more hurtfull then profitable.

The riches of the mind, are the feare of God, Riches of the minde. faith, a desire of Gods glory, the knowledge of his will, sobernesse, liberalitie, chastitie, silence, humblenes, honestie, & such like vertues. These vertues lie not still, neither hide themselues wheresoeuer they be, but will breake out diuers wayes, so that they may well be spied and discer­ned.

As then a traueller hath markes in his way, that hee may proceed aright: so likewise the man or woman that intendeth to marry, haue [Page 102] also markes in their wayes, by which they make a right choise.

There be certaine signes of this fitnes [...] godlinesse both in the man and in the w [...] So that if the man be desirous to know [...] ­ly woman, or the woman would know [...] a godly man, then let them obserue and [...] these sixe points.

• 1. The report.
  Sixe rules to be obserued in the choise of a good wife, or a good hus­band.
• 2. The lookes.
• 3. The speech.
• 4. The apparell.
• 5. The companions.
• 6. Lastly, the education and b [...] vp, which are like the pulses that shew w [...] a man be sicke or whole, well or ill.

1. The report, name, or fame, that he [...] 1. Report. hath had, and yet haue, & what opinion [...] folkes haue of them: because as the mark [...] eth, so the market men will talke. A go [...] Prou 10. 7. and 22. 1. Preach. 7. 3. and a good woman commonly haue [...] name, because a good name is one of the sings which God promiseth to good m [...] good women. But a good name is no [...] praised from the wicked: and therefore [...] uiour Christ saith, Woe be to you when [...] speake well of you, Luk. 6. 16. that is, whe [...] Psal. 112. 6. men praise & commend you: for that is [...] argument, that you are ambitious, vaing [...] & of the world, For the world liketh and [...] his owne, Ioh. 15. 19.

Neuerthelesse, it is conuenient that euery Christian should so liue in the world, that though hee cannot say as Christ sayd, Which of you can rebuke me of sinne? Ioh. 8. 46. yet so as in trueth hee may with a good conscience boldly say, Which of you can accuse me of lying, swea­ring, whoring, dissembling, dishonesty, deceit, couetousnesse, or such like? Though therefore no man can cleere himselfe in thought before God of these, and other notorious vices, yet euery one before men should auouch it, and approoue it in their doing; and liue so vpright­ly, holily, iustly, & vnblameably, that none could iustly charge them with any open sinne, Luke 1. 6. 15. Iob 1. 1. 1. Thessa. 2. 10. and 3. 13. Tit. 2. 12. 1. Pet. 1. 15.

2. The next signe is, The looke; for as 2. The looke. Pro. 17. 24. Salomon saith, The wisedome of a man doeth make his face to shine, Eccles. 8. 1. that is, pro­cureth him fauour and good liking.

So also, godlinesse is in the face of a man or a woman: and so likewise folly and wicked­nesse may many times be seene and discerned by the face of a man or a woman. And there­fore it is said in Esay, The triall of their counte­nance Esay 3. 9. testifieth against them, as though their lookes could speake. And therefore we reade Psal. 18. 27. and 101. 5. Iob 31. 1. of proude lookes, and angry lookes, and wan­ton lookes, because they bewray pride and an­ger, and wantonnesse.

It is truely sayd, that a modest man dwels [Page 104] at the signe of a modest countenance, [...] honest woman dwelleth at the signe of [...] nest face: which may fitly be compared [...] gate of the Temple, that was called Be [...] Actes 3. 2. shewing, that if the entrie be so beautifull, in is great beautie.

To shew how a modest countenance [...] womanly shamefastnesse doe commend [...] Vnder faire fa­ces are some times hidden filthy mindes. wife, it is obserued, that the word Nup [...] declare the maner of her mariage. Fo [...] porteth a couering, because Virgins [...] should be maried, when they came to the bands, for modestie and shamefastnesse [...] uer their faces: as wee reade of Rebecc [...] Gen. 24. 65. when she saw Isaac, and knew that hee [...] be her husband, cast a vaile before he [...] shewing that modestie should be learn [...] fore mariage, which is the dowrie that G [...] deth to her portion.

3. The third signe is, her talke, or sp [...] 3. The talke. rather her silence; for a man or a woma [...] ing is the mirrour and messenger of the [...] in the which it may commonly be seene out, in what case the man or woman is [...] according to the common prouerbe: S [...] the man or woman is, such is their talke silence is the best ornament of a woma [...] To Adam first, and to Moses after. therefore the law was giuen to the man, then to the woman, to shew that he sho [...] the teacher, and she the hearer; and th [...] shee is commanded to learne of her h [...] 1. Cor. 14, 34, 35.

As the Eccho answereth but one word for Maides must speake like an Eccho. many, which are spoken to her, so a maids an­swere should be in a word: for she which is full of talke, is not likely to prooue a quiet wife. The eye and the speech, are as the Glasses of the minde: For out of the aboundance of the heart Matth. 12. 34. (saith our Sauiour) the mouth speaketh: as though by the speech, we might know what aboundeth in the heart, and therefore he saith: By thy words thou shalt be iustified, and by thy wordes thou shalt Matth. 12. 37. be condemned. That is, thou shalt be iustified to be wise, or thou shalt be condemned to be foo­lish: thou shalt be iustified to be sober, or thou shalt be condemned to be rash: thou shalt be iustified to be humble, or thou shalt be con­demned to be proud: thou shalt be iustified to be louing, or thou or thou shalt be condemned to be [...]enuious. Therefore Salomon saith: A Fooles lips Prou. 18. 7. are a snare to his owne soule. Snares are made for other, but this snare catcheth a mans selfe, be­cause it bewrayeth his follie, and causeth his trouble, and bringeth him into discredit. Con­trariwise, The heart of the wise (saith Salomon) Prou. 16. 23. guideth his mouth wisely, and the words of his mouth haue grace.

Now to shew that this should be one marke in the choise of a wife, Salomon describing a right wife, saith: Shee openeth her mouth with Prou. 31. 26. wisdome, and the law of grace is in her tongue: for that she delighteth to talke of the word of God. A wife that can speake this language, is [Page 106] better then she which hath all the tongu [...] [...]s the open vessels were counted vncle [...] also account that the open mouth hath [...] vncleanuesse.

4. The fourth signe is, The appare [...] 4. Apparell. Luke 16. 19. the pride of the Glutton is noted, in t [...] went in purple euery day: so also the h [...] of Iohn is noted, in that he went in haire [...] euery day. For doubtlesse by a man o [...] Mark. 1. 6. mans apparell, excessiue laughter, and g [...] they may partly be discerned of what di [...] on they are. It is conuenient that hee th [...] be a suiter to a woman, marke what appar [...] customably vseth to weare, whether it be [...] whorish, wanton, light, or comely, mode [...] mannerly, and beseeming her estate and [...] tion, to wit, honest and sober raiment. F [...] pa [...]rell doth giue often a certaine and s [...] monie of pride, lightnesse, wantonnesse, [...] stancie, vnshamefastnesse, filthinesse or v [...] nesse, and other vices, or vertues, that bee [...] in the man or woman. For a modest [...] woman are for the most part knowne by [...] sober attire: as the Prophet Eliah was k [...] 2. King. 1. 8. by his rough garment. So that we are to [...] for no better within, then wee see witho [...] euery one seemeth better then they be. I [...] the face be vanitie, the heart is pride. He [...] biddeth vs abstaine from the shew of eui [...] 1. Thes. 5. 22. haue vs to abstaine from those meanes, [...] bands, or wiues, who haue the shewes of [...] [Page 107] for it is hard to come in the fashion, and not to be in the abuse. And therefore the Apostle saith: Fashion not your selues like vnto this world: Rom. 12. 2. as though the fashions of men did declare of what side they are.

5. The, fift signe is the Companie by meanes 5 Companie. whereof, much may be perceiued For as whole and sound eyes, with beholding and looking on sore eyes, be annoyed and hurt: euen so good and honest folkes be oftentimes stained Men are com­monly condi­tioned, euen like vnto them that they keep company withall. and hurt with the company of the wicked and vngodly; according to the common prouerbe: Such like is euery one, as the companie is with whom they keepe. For Birds of a feather will hold together, and fellowes in sinne, will be fellowes in league, euen as young Rehoboam chose young companions: 1. King. 12. 8. The tame beast will not keepe with the wilde, nor Pro. 1. 11. & 13. 20. Psal. 6. 8. Num. 16. 20. Iosu. 23. 12. 2. Cor. 6. 14. Ephes. 5. 7. the cleane dwell with the leprous: If a man can be knowne by nothing else, then hee may be knowne by his companions: for like will to like as Salomon saith: Theeues call one ano­ther.

Therefore when Dauid left iniquitie, hee said: Away from mee all yee that worke iniquitie: shewing, that a man neuer abandoneth euill, vntil he abandon euill companie: for no good is concluded in this parliament. Therefore choose such a companion of thy life, as hath chosen companie like thee before. For they which choose such as loued prophane companions [Page 108] before, in a short time are drawne to b [...] phane too.

6 The last signe is Education, which [...] 6. The brin­ging vp. It skilleth more by whom and by what waies men be broght vp, then of whom they be begotten. also great testimonie, namely by wh [...] how euery one is brought vp, whether [...] or the woman were conuersant among [...] ous or vicious persons, and whether the [...] haue continued in the nurture of the ve [...] and shewed themselues obedient to the [...] der whom they were brought vp, or w [...] either of the parties haue broken out of [...] cipline, and followed his, or her owne [...] nes. For it is a small matter for either of [...] to haue dwelt among, or with vertuous [...] ligious folke: but herein lieth the for [...] weight, how farre, and how much, ei [...] both the parties haue followed those, an [...] fited vnder them, and were dutifull and [...] ent vnto them. For Iudas was among, [...] companyed with the Apostles, brought [...] taine yeeres vnder Christ, but for all this, [...] neuer the better: for hee left not his [...] pranks, neither was he obedient. Neuert [...] good education and discipline formeth [...] manners: men and women commonly [...] most of those good or euill things, w [...] youth they learned. Therefore to prooue [...] To be good, it doth much profit to be well brought vp. honest, and vertuous, it importeth and [...] much, from the infancie to be well go [...] and Christianly brought vp. For wee [...] much more of the customes, wherewith [...] [Page 109] bred, then of the inclinations wherewith we be borne.

All these properties are not spied at three or foure commings, and meetings of the parties for hypocrisie is spunne with a find threed, and none are so often deceiued as louers. He there­fore which will know all his wiues qualities: or she that will perceiue her husbands dispositions, & inclinations, before either be married to the other, had need to see one the other eating, and walking, working, and playing, talking, and laughing, and chiding too: or else it may be, the one shall haue with the other, lesse then hee or shee looked for, or more then they wished for. Here is to be remembred, a thing adioy­ned to marriage, and going before it, namely, Betrothing, being a solemne and laudable cu­stome of Gods children, as is prooued, Deu­teron. 20. 7. & 22. 23. 24. This Betrothing, is a What Betro­thing is. couenant betweene the parties to be married, before fit witnesses appointed thereto: where­by they giue their troth, that they will, and shall marrie together, except some lawfull vnmeete­nesse and disliking each of other doe hinder it in the meane time. The practise of it wee see, Matth. 1. 18. Luke 1. 27. Where the Virgine Marie betrothed to Iospeph, yet they had not met together, to wit, to accompany together according to the end of marriage. This cu­stome, noted and marked in diuers places of the Scripture, hath diuers good grounds to be [Page 110] obserued, which proue that there ought [...] contract before marriage. And for the [...] vnderstanding of this point of Betro [...] shall not be amisse, in some plaine and [...] maner to make knowne the holy doctri [...] of, with the doctrine also of marriage▪ marriage duties. First then we must kno [...] euery mariage, that hath bin well and orde [...] sed, either of the heathen (which were o [...] lightned with the law of nature) or of the [...] ple of God, who also were to be directed [...] word, was perfected by two solemne af [...] that is, by an apparant & open contract, [...] publike mariage, the true & vnfained co [...] tion thereof. Wherefore we will first spea [...] contract (which is also called espousing, [...] cing, betrothing, or handfasting) then of [...] age it selfe. And for betrothing, or espous [...] reade in the writing of ancient Philosop [...] Histories, Orators, Poets & others, that t [...] of great antiquitie, of necessarie vse, an [...] bin ordinarily practised. Insomuch, as the therof are highly commended, the neglect [...] abusers hereof sharpely rebuked and c [...] ned.

Which seeing they could not do, but [...] knowledge and iudgement, it doth man [...] declare, that they did it by natures law [...] and bred in their brests. And therefore [...] nature it selfe (though in some matters [...] blind, and in many of very dimme sight [...] [Page 111] in all ages bewraied the lawfulnes, the necessitie, and the vse of espousals, to be the first steppe and degree to a lawfull and comfortable mar­riage.

But to omit this law, and to come to the written word, let vs further consider what al­lowance thereof we find in the same, and con­sequently what it is, not onely to marry, but to be betrothed, not according to the direction of nature alone, but in the Lord also. First it is cer­taine, that the Lord approueth this betrothing as his owne sacred ordinance. For wee read in Exodus 21. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. How carefullie hee prouideth by sundrie and many straight commandements for the Maide-seruant that is betrothed. First, that shee shall not goe out of her seruice, as the Men-seruants doe. Secondly, that her master shall haue no power to sell her to a strange people. Thirdly, that be­ing betrothed vnto his sonne, hee shall deale with her as with his owne daughter. Fourthly, if another Wife be taken with her, that neither her foode, her raiment, nor recompence of her Virginitie, shall any whit at all be diminished. Fiftly, that whensoeuer she goeth out of her ser­uice, she shall pay no mony at all. None where­of the Lord would haue done (much lesse all of them) vnlesse espowsals had beene his own or­dinance, instituted, ordained and commaunded by himselfe to be vsed, euen of the Maid ser­uant, that was bought and sold. Againe, the [Page 112] Lord in Deutron. Cap. 22. 23. &c. re [...] lesse punishment to be inflicted vp [...] that violate the bonds of espousall, th [...] brake Wedlocke. For he commande [...] any man shall abuse a betrothed V [...] the Citie, both shall be stoned to d [...] Maide because she cried not, the m [...] he hath humbled his neighbours wife.

Whereby the way, is to be rememb [...] God calleth the betrothed, a wife. If [...] wickednesse by iustice deserueth dea [...] betrothed persons be truely to be te [...] and wife, onely in regard of the pre [...] powsals, wee may then plainely see, ho [...] the Lord doth esteeme and honour t [...] breach whereof, he punisheth with the [...] ment of adulterie, and the persons betr [...] honoureth with the names of man and [...] indeed he had not ordained and allowe [...] but that they had beene of humane in [...] alone, he would not haue honoured th [...] such titles, or haue imposed death by st [...] the breach of mans ordinance. Againe, [...] abuse a betrothed maid in the field, he s [...] the man shall die, but vnto the maid th [...] do nothing, because there is in the maid [...] of death.

Now imposing death vpon this m [...] not vpon him that abuseth a maid not [...] ed, the Lord doth hereby euidently te [...] espousals are a degree beyond a single e [...] [Page 113] of the nature of mariage. And therefore the vnlawfull breach thereof deserueth death. For what else should the Lord grace them with such great priuiledges, and punish the breach there­of with seuere punishment?

Further, the faithfull in all ages instructed by these and such commandements, approued and practised these espousals, not onely by [...]hemselues, but also by their children. Sampson Iudg. 14. 1. &c. [...]king and louing a woman of the Philistines [...] Timnah, desired his Father and Mother to [...]iue her to him to wife, and so they did, at [...]hich time Sampson made a feast, according to [...]e custome of the young men. Albeit, her fa­ [...]er afterward would not suffer him to marrie [...] er, but gaue her to another, for which iniurie [...]ampson reuenged himselfe of the Philistines [...] burning vp their rickes and standing corne, [...]neyards, and Oliues. For which the Philistines [...]rnt both the Father and the daughter. So 1. Sam 18. 15. 26. 27. 2. Tam. 3. 24. 15. [...]auid begged Micholl of her father Saul, who [...]ue her to him to wife, with condition, that he [...]uld bring him a hundreth foreskinnes of the [...]hilistines, and therefore when Saul was dead, [...] required her of Ishbosheth Saules sonne, who [...]ther vnto him. Also Ioseph and Marie, the [...]other of Christ were betrothed, which God [...]uld neuer haue permitted, if it had not beene [...] his owne ordinance, and agreeable to his [...]ne will, or if hee might any manner of way [...]ue stained either Iosephs honestie, or Maries [Page 114] virginitie: Nay if he had not much more [...] ced and adorned both, then the want of es [...] sals could haue done.

And to auoyde tediousnesse in so p [...] a trueth, seeing the scripture giueth power [...] authoritie to Parents, to giue, and not to [...] their children in marriage: saying, let hi [...] what he will.

Againe, he that giueth her in marriage [...] 1. Cor. 7. 36. 37. 38. well, and hee that giueth her not to ma [...] doth better (whereof wee shall speake m [...] large anon) there must needs be before the [...] like acte of marriage, some speciall time pointed: wherein both Parents and parties [...] testifie and signifie their mutuall liking consents, vnlesse they despise to marrie i [...] Lord.

Wherefore, if the law of nature, the [...] God, the practise of the Heathen, the cus [...] of Faithful, especially of the Parents of C [...] If the punishment of the espowsall bre [...] and the rewards and priuiledges of the es [...] sed. And finally, if the fatherly authoritie [...] children, doe approue and require the co [...] all vse of this ordinance of God, it must [...] be confessed to be both lawfull and necess [...] yea, being the first principall part of ma [...] it self, it must needs be honourable in his [...] as well as marriage it selfe is. Now then, [...] next place, let vs see and learne, what a co [...] is, to the end, that vpon sound knowledge [...] [Page 115] right iudgement, wee may alwayes vse it well, and neuer ill, for want of good vnderstanding.

This short sentence, sheweth the whole na­ture, qualitie, propertie, vse, and abuse, with all other things, that are to be obserued or eschued in a right Contract, as shall appeare by the vn­folding of euery word contained therein: For as there is none vaine and idle, voyde of his pro­per signification, so euery one hath his pro­per waight, seruing for speciall and necessary vse.

1. First, we call a Contract a promise, and so it is indeed: so what is a promise but a speech which affirmeth or denieth, to doe this or that, with purpose and words of testimonie, to per­forme and accomplish, that which is affirmed, or not to do that which is denied? And what o­ther thing is indeed a marriage Contract, but this? so that it must be in nature, a true & right promise: not the vow of a promise in time to come, but a present promise indeed. For if one partie doe say, I will promise to marry thee: this is no promise in deed, but a promise of a promise, and consequently no Contract but a [Page 116] promise of a Contract. And therefore tie [...] bindeth neither parties, nor Parents to keep [...] same; for it is not in nature any Contract [...]

Again, if a Contract be a promise, it is not [...] ly a purpose of the heart, nor a dumbe she [...] doubtfull signification of promise: but a p [...] promise vttered and pronounced in a [...] forme of speech: as when one saith, I doe p [...] mise to marry thee, or I doe espouse, affiance [...] betroth my self to thee in marriage, or such [...] wherein all ambiguitie and doubtfulnesse [...] speech, is to be eschued: that as the meani [...] the heart is simple and plaine, so likewise [...] words of the tongue, might be simple, pl [...] and voide of all deceit.

2. Secondly, we call a Contract a promi [...] marriage, because it is not a promise of e [...] thing, neither of honour, of inheritance, of [...] ches, or of any other thing else, sauing o [...] of marriage. Now we meane by marriage, [...] onely the parties married, but also coni [...] and marriage duties, and offices, that pecul [...] belong to this honorable estate, and are nece [...] rily to be performed mutually of both. For [...] promise, touching persons themselues i [...] such force and waight, that it tendeth to the [...] nation of the propertie of bodies? for so i [...] written, the wife hath not the power of her [...] bodie, but the husband: and likewise also [...] 1. Cor. 7. 4. husband hath not the power ouer his owne [...] die, but the wife. For, although this is [...] [Page 117] perfectly done, till the acte of marriage be en­ded, yet this promise is the principall beginner and worker thereof, because they that promise marriage, doe necessarily thereby promise, that two shall become one flesh, and that they will alwayes giue mutuall beneuolence one to another.

Touching the peculiar duties of husbands and wiues, which likewise are promised by this Contract, we will here onely recite them, leauing the doctrine thereof to another place and time.

1. The husband his dutie is, first to loue his wife, as his owne flesh.

2. Then to gouerne her in all duties, that properly concerne the state of mariage, in knowledge, in wisedome, iudgement & iustice.

3. Thirdly, to dwell with her.

4. Fourthly, to vse her in all due beneuo­lence, 1. Pet. 13. 7. 1. Cor. 7. 45. honestly, soberly, and chastly.

1. The wife, her dutie is, in all reuerence and humilitie, to submit and subiect her selfe to her husband, in all such duties as properly belong to mariage.

2. Secondly, therein to be an helpe vnto him, according to Gods ordinance.

3. Thirdly, to obey his commandements in all things, which he may command by the authoritie of an husband.

4. Fourthly and lastly, to giue him mutuall beneuolence. As for the rest of mutuall duties, [Page 118] as they may be all comprehended vnder i [...] so there shall be a fitter occasion to sp [...] thereof.

Thirdly, wee call this promise of m [...] voluntary, because it must not come f [...] lippes alone, but from the wel-liking an [...] sent of the heart: for if it be onely a [...] promise, without any will at all, (and so m [...] hypocritical and dissembled) though it b [...] the partie that promiseth to the perfo [...] of his promise made before God and m [...] if the Parents afterwards shall certainly [...] this, and that there was no will, nor vn [...] meaning at all in the party, neither yet i [...] rather a loathing and abhorring of his [...] betrothed, though he be not able to [...] iust and sufficient cause thereof, they may [...] this occasion, either deferre the day of m [...] the longer, to see if God will happly [...] the minde of the partie, or vtterly brea [...] frustrate the promise: if all good meate [...] occasions hauing been vsed, none will p [...] but that the partie rather groweth wo [...] worse.

For, a Contract beeing a willing [...] voluntary consent, there is no cause [...] the Parents and such as haue authorit [...] power in such cases, when they shall [...] tedly know that the promise was alto [...] vnwilling, and therefore made in meere [...] crisie and dissimulation, neither can be b [...] [Page 119] of time, or any other good meanes vsed be bet­tered, but rather (waxeth woorse and woorse) may not breake and frustrate the same. For why did Rebecaes Parents deny her to Isaack, neither would send her with Abrahams seruant to be Gen. 24. 57. 58. married, before such time as they had asked her consent: yea, when as they said, We will call the mayd, and aske her consent, do they not plain­lie shew that both the Law of Nature, and the law of God taught them, that this consent was of great moment, and absolute necessitie? And when the Apostle doth commaund men and women to marry in the Lord, how can that mar­riage be in the Lord, when the one partie doth not only not loue, but hate the other? And how can such two become one flesh lawfully, when as there wanteth the vnion and coniunction of the heart, the true naturall mother of all marri­age duties? Wherefore this promise must be in this respect, at least willing and voluntary.

For, albeit it is not necessary, neither yet possible, that there should be such great mea­sure of true, holy, & sanctified loue at that time, as afterward (for that groweth by litle and litle, according to the blessing of God, and the faith­ful performance of other duties afterward, euen to their liues end) yet if it be voluntary and vn­fained, it is enough, and sufficient to make a true contract in the Lord. So, as no man ought to separate those whom God hath thus ioyned.

Secondly, we call it voluntary, in respe [...] constraint and compulsion, contrarie [...] consent: for if either partie be vrged, cons [...] ned, or compelled, by great feare of their P [...] rents, or others, by threatning of losse of p [...] ferment, of health, of limme, of life, or of [...] such other like, or by any other violent [...] of dealing whatsoeuer, to yeeld their pro [...] cleane contrarie to the motion or good li [...] of their hearts. This kinde of promise, [...] doth not bind the partie to keepe it: so it o [...] to be srustrated and broken by the Pa [...] themselues, or by such maisters as may [...] ought to command and rule them in such [...] If this were not so, how could the parties ke [...] the commandements of God, giuing them [...] ction whom to marry? First, that they sh [...] marry onely in the Lord.

Againe, that they should not be vneq [...] yoked with the infidels, neither whereof [...] can keepe, if their parents might compell [...] or Contract and marry, it becommeth rathe [...] Parents to perswade their children by allg [...] meanes, to yeeld their consent, rather [...] to draw them by wicked sleights and cun [...] drunkennesse, or any other wicked and vio [...] meanes. For as that is not to marrie in [...] Lord: so all such forced Contracts may be [...] ken and frustrated by the Magistrate, wh [...] Gods Lieftenant, to redresse such intoller [...] enormities among the societies of men. F [...] [Page 121] Parents may deny marriage to such as haue onely by force and violence obtained the word and body of their childe, much more may the Magistrate denie marriage, where onely a ver­ball promise hath beene gotten by violent compulsion, and so for these causes, and in this sence and meaning alone, wee conclude, that Contract must be voluntary.

Fourthly, it must be a mutuall promise, that is, either partie must make it to other, not the man onely, nor the woman onely, but both the man and the woman: though decencie and or­der require the man to doe it first, and then the woman, because hee is her head, and shee his glory: and ought to leade and guide her in all things, wherein the Lord hath put a pre­heminence.

For, if this promise be not mutually made of them both, but of one alone, is it no true and perfect Contract. And therefore may be bro­ken by Parents, and such as haue authoritie herein: because the partie vnpromising, is not bound by word or deed, but is free, insomuch that such a Contract is rather so termed then for that it is any true Contract indeed.

But if it be mutuall, then it doeth mutually and inuiolably binde both: so that in this re­gard neither Parent, Magistrate, nor any other, can or ought to breake it. For this being fully performed and accomplished, is one princi­pall cause of making two one flesh, in such [Page 122] sort as it is written. Therfore a man shall le [...] father and mother, and shall be ioyned to hi [...] and they two shall be one flesh, &c. Genes. [...] Also that the man hath not power ouer h [...] bodie, nor the woman ouer hers: and s [...] short, hence ariseth all mutuall beneu [...] betweene them. And therefore a point of [...] waight and necessitie in no wise to be on [...] in Contract.

Fiftly, we say, it must be betweene o [...] and one woman: Where first it is to b [...] ted, that it may not, nor ought not to be [...] tweene any other creatures, but mankind [...] neither among brute beastes, nor Angels [...] God hath not ordained nor instituted m [...] for them, neither can it be betweene ma [...] man, or woman and woman. If any such [...] tract be either voluntarie, or by fraud a [...] ceite, by ignorance or errour, it is no C [...] at all, but a meere wicked profanation of [...] ordinance, who gaue onely woman to m [...] woman to woman, nor man to man. Li [...] it cannot be betweene Angels good or b [...] woman, because God hath set no such [...] nance in the nature of these creatures. If th [...] there hath beene any such matter, or shal [...] tempted by Sathan, with any woman ( [...] stories report) it is nothing else but a m [...] sion and diuellish practise, to deceiue and [...] superstitious persons into the kingd [...] darkenesse, and to intrap them in the [...] [Page 123] condemnation: against which, and all other di­abolicall illusions we ought to watch and pray continually.

Secondly, it is to be obserued, that betweene one man, and one woman, and not two men and one woman, or two women, not betweene two women and one man or moe. By which is condemned, as meere nullities and propha­nations, all Contracts whatsoeuer, made be­tweene moe then two. For it is written: And Math. 19. 5. Mar. 10. 8. Ephes. 5. 31. 1. Cor. 6. 16. they twaine shall be one flesh: to which Marke addeth: So that they are no more twaine, but one flesh.

Wherefore, seeing that Christ and his Apostles, expound the first institution of mar­riage of two onely, and not of any moe: it is certaine, that the Contract or promise thereof, ought to be of two alone, and no moe. So the holy Ghost saying; Let euery man haue his owne wife, and cuerie woman her owne husband: and 1. Cor. 7. 2. not, let euery one haue his owne wiues, or owne husbands: it is therefore plaine and question­lesse that hee would haue a contract and mar­riage, to be onely betweene one and one. A­gaine, saying: his owne, and her owne, doth hee not plainely insinuate euery other person, and persons, not to be their owne, but meere stran­gers, with whom they ought to haue nothing adoe, in respect of marriage duties, especially considering that the Greeke word Idion can im­port no lesse. Now then, if there be at any [Page 124] time, or in any place, a promise betweene [...] then two, as it is a wicked and meere pro [...] nation of the holy ordinance of God: so i [...] and ought to be broken; yea, seuerely puni [...] by Parents and Magistrates. If against th [...] be obiected, that many of the Patriarches, [...] good men vnder the Law, had many wi [...] at least moe then one: We answere, it wa [...] secret sinne, and great infirmitie, though [...] ceeding from ignorance of the first insti [...] of marriage, of the Law, and the holy Prop [...] (or else they had warrant from God, which [...] haue noted.) Of the institution, because C [...] interpreting it, saith: From the begi [...] Math. 19. 3. was not so: proouing, that Moses per [...] diuorcement of the first wife, and marri [...] the second, not mooued or warranted by [...] authoritie of Gods institution, but by a [...] full and timerous consideration of the [...] nesse of the peoples hearts, whom hee [...] least they should haue rebelled against [...] if hee had not so done. Of the law, be [...] there was by this meanes, great iniurie [...] to Gods truth, and to the wiues diuorced [...] sides, the law it selfe well vnderstood (as C [...] expoundeth it, Matth. 5. 32.) admitte [...] diuorcement, except it be for fornica [...] and that the Lord did disallow and h [...] other kindes of diuorcement, made wi [...] the cause of fornication it is euident, in [...] Deut. 24. 4. hee condemneth the second marriage, af [...] [Page 125] first diuorcement, affirming that the woman so diuorced, is defiled by her second husband: which could not be true, if their marriage had beene lawfull and warrantable, by the comman­dement of God, for where the marriage is law­full Hebr. 134. Mal. 2. 14. 15. 16. and honorable, there the bed is vndefiled. Of the Prophets, because the Lord hath beene witnesse betweene thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast transgressed: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy coue­nant; and did not hee make one? yet had hee aboundance of the spirit: and wherefore one? because hee sought a godly seede: therefore keepe your selues in your spirit, and let none trespasse against the wife of his youth. If thou hatest her, put her away (saith the Lord of Is­rael) yet hee couereth the iniurie vnder his gar­ment (saith the Lord of Hostes) therefore keepe your selues in your spirit, and transgresse not. Then which words, what can be more plainely spoken against this sinne of hauing moe wiues then one? For doth not the Prophet plainely 1 say, that God is witnesse, that they haue trans­gressed against the wife of their youth and coue­nant? doth he not call them to the first instituti­on, 2 when God made but one, & that because he would haue a godly seede, and not an adulte­rous generation? doth he not further say, that in 3 putting away the wife, they did nothing else, but couer iniurie, vnder pretence of his law, as with a garment? And finally, doth he not giue a clean 4 [Page 126] contrarie commaundement to that wi [...] custome of diuorcement, and marrying [...] thers? when he saith: keepe your selues in [...] spirit, and let none transgresse against the F [...] of his youth, and of his couenant? Surely [...] can be so blind, but reading this po [...] scripture, hee must needes plainely see and [...] knowledge the same. Wherefore, if the fir [...] cred institution of God, do bewray this c [...] tion of hauing moe wiues then one: If the [...] doe condemne it, and if the Prophets doe sharpely censure and rebuke it? Why sho [...] ny be so impudent and wicked, as to iust [...] in word, or to approue it in thought? Rat [...] here wee teach, let vs iudge and beleeue, t [...] uerie lawfull Contract and marriage, ough [...] be onely betweene one man, and one wo [...] And the rest to bee so many breaches of C [...] ordinances and commaundements, which [...] not but be hatefull to him, and iniurious to [...] kinde: but especially to the Church of [...] which ought to arise of a bolie and godly [...] Now if any Contract be made betweene [...] then two, it is altogether voide, and of n [...] fect, and ought to be broken by the partie, [...] punished by the Magistrate.

The sixt point, concerneth the perso [...] tweene whom the Contract is made, in w [...] there is required two properties: meetnesse [...] marriage, and freedome or libertie to marry [...] another. Touching the first, those especially [...] [Page 127] fit and meete to marrie, whom God doth call to that honourable estate, and commandeth them to vse it as his lawfull meanes, appointed and sanctified for procreation: for so it appea­reth by the first institution, wherein God gaue the woman to the man to bee an helper meete for him, as in other things, so especially in this: whom hee blessed, saying: Bring foorth fruit and multiplie, &c. And that wee may know Gen. 2. 20. 22. & 1. 28. more particularly what sort of persons they be, the holy Ghost describeth them to be such as to whom the gift of continencie is denied, yet the gift of procreation is vouchsafed and gran­ted. For if marriage (as the Apostle saith He­brewes 13. verse. 4.) be honourable among all sorts of persons, then amongst those that be strong. Againe, it is written: I say to the vnma­ried, 1. Cor. 7. 8. 9. and to widowes, it is good for them if they a­bide euen as I doe: but if they cannot abstaine let them marrie: for it is better to marrie, then to burne. In which words we may plainly see, that hee pointeth out, as with his finger, those that are called and commanded by God to marrie: namely, such as haue not receiued the gift of abstinence and continencie. Which calling and commaundement is so much the straighter, and the more to be regarded and followed, because the Apostle gaue it to those persons that were molested and pressed with many and grieuous persecutions: a reason of all other most vnfit for any to marrie in, in as much as [Page 128] beside the ordinarie in commodities of m [...] estate, it cannot but bring with it many [...] traordinarie grieuances and troubles. No [...] standing if such persons be called and [...] manded then to marrie, when as there were [...] grieuous persecutions; much more in the [...] of peace and prosperitie.

By this then wee see, that all persons w [...] haue not receiued rhe gift of abstinence, a [...] sit for procreation, are called and comm [...] to marrie, and therefore meet for mariage, [...] also may lawfully enter a Contract of the [...]

But are none else meete for mariage? [...] answere, that no other is called, comma [...] or warranted by God to make Contract [...] any of these meet ones, because they are [...] to performe the principall duties of ma [...] As for children vnder age, they are altog [...] vnsit to take vpon them this honourable e [...] and therefore debarred by Gods comm [...] ment from making any promise or Co [...] if they haue done it, it is but a meere prop [...] tion of this holy ordinance, worthy grea [...] nishment, and also to be broken, if that, [...] come to yeares of discretion and state of [...] age, they do not by wisedome and religion [...] ply all that was wanting in their former [...] attempt, to the full contentation of all that [...] interest in them. As for those that haue rec [...] the gift of continencie, they are called and [...] selled to chastitie, during the whole time of [...] [Page 129] gift: for so saith our Sauiour Christ, All men cannot receiue this thing, saue they to whom it is gi­uen, Mat. 19. 12. And againe, He that is able to receiue this; let him receiue it. So the Apostle saith, It is good for them if they abide euen as I do, 1. Cor. 7. 27. Again, Art thou loosed from a wife? seeke not a wife. So likewise are those that are borne chaste, or made chaste by men, or by themselues for the kingdome of heauen. But you will say, what if any of these doe make a contract and marrie? We answere, first, if they be vtterly vnfit for marriage their contract is of no validitie, and may be broken by superiour authoritie, but if they be fit for it, we say with the Apostle, Art thou loosed from a wife, seeke not a wife? but if thou takest a wife, thou sinnest 1. Cor. 7. 27. not: and if a Ʋirgin marrie, she sinneth not, &c. Last of all, as consanguinitie and affinitie doo restraine and binde from this former contract and marriage: so likewise doe naturall frigi­ditie and coldnesse, infancie, incurable diseases that depriue men of all fitnesse for the vse of marriage. So as if any such by fraud, igno­rance, or any other sinister meanes, be contra­cted it is nothing; and the parties may be law­fully separated, because they were neuer ioyned together in the Lord, but against the Lord. And here, when wee say meete and fit to mar­ [...]ie one with another, there would be a wise and holy regard had of equalitie in yeares, of agree­ment in religion, of similitude in nature, and [Page 130] manners, in outward estate, condition a [...] litie of person, and such like necessarie [...] stances.

For what is more vnmeete, then for [...] person to promise to be contracted to a [...] one? for an Infidell to Contract with [...] uer? for a good nature and well m [...] with a crooked and froward person [...] Prince with a begger? For although [...] doe not annihilate and make voide t [...] tract altogether, yet such Contracts c [...] in the Lord. And thus much shall s [...] haue taught touching the fitnesse of [...] riage.

Now concerning the freedome and [...] tie, it is cleere, that those alone haue [...] and freedome to Contract, who haue [...] marrie. Now if we wil know who those [...] are diuersly described and noted in L [...] where certaine degrees, aswell in affini [...] consanguinitie, are expresly forbidde [...] if such parties shall Contract themselue [...] ther, their Contract is vaine, and a mee [...] tie, such as ought to be broken and p [...] Againe, euery one either betrothed or [...] is bounden and tied from contracting [...] other: for that were nothing else but [...] mise grosse and beastly adulterie. And [...] postle teacheth, that the wife is bo [...] law as long as her husband liueth: so [...] the betrothed wife; insomuch, as if [...] [Page 131] shall Contract themselues with another, it is a meere nullitie, and wicked prophanation of Gods ordinance, and ought vpon knowledge thereof, to be broken and punished. And thus wee see what manner of persons the Lord hath called and commaunded to marrie, and who they be that are meete and free to marrie toge­ther, and who not.

The last point, is the consent and allowance of their Parents: which though it be very ma­teriall and necessarie, yet it is not the sole forme or formall cause which maketh a true Contract.

For if the Parents should yeeld their consent to their children, being neither meete nor free to be married together, it were nothing; & such a Contract, though warranted by parents con­sent, ought to be broken by the Magistrate, & both parents and children are to be punished. For this cause wee haue not sayd simply and allowed, but therefore allowed so to doe; be­cause consent of parents to such children as are not meete and fit to be married together, doth not make that Contract good, true, and inuiola­ble: which neuerthelesse, wanting their con­sents, though in other respects neuer so good, is a meere nullitie, and cannot be accomplished without the manifest breaches of the instituti­on, and guilt of adulterie.

Now by Parents, we vnderstand not onely the naturall Parents, but such as by the law of [Page 132] Nature and of GOD supply their places: [...] Grandfathers, great Grandfathers, Vncl [...] Aunts, great Vncles and Aunts, Brethren, S [...] ­sters, Kinsmen, and Kinswomen, Migistrat [...] and those to whose families the parties doe [...] pecially belong. For all these are honoured [...] Scripture by the name of Parents. Neither [...] we exempt out of this number Gardians, M [...] sters, and such to whom the continuall custod [...] and tuition of any is lawfully committed. For [...] such be commaunded to prouide for them, [...] partes of their owne families, there is no reas [...] why they should not especially be respected [...] well in bestowing them abroad out of their [...] mily, as they were in taking them into it. For [...] their consent be necessarie at their comm [...] in, why should they goe out without their c [...] sent?

Further we say their parents, and not his [...] her parents, because parents on both sides ou [...] necessarily to consent and allow their chil [...] to betroth themselues. For this is the priuile [...] not of some parents, but of all, and in that t [...] be Parents. Moreouer we say allowed, and [...] required, neither commanded, nor yet exh [...] ted or inducted so to doe: because that a [...] the parents do neither call their children to [...] contract, neither commaund them, neither [...] quire them, neither exhort them (all wh [...] notwithstanding they ought to doe) yet if t [...] doe but onely allow them, and giue their [...] [Page 133] consent that they shall contract themselues, it is enough for the tying of the knot, and the sub­stance of the Contract. And to prooue that this contract is necessarie, we need no moe reasons but that which the Apostle setteth downe, say­ing of the father, Let him doe what hee will. By 1. Cor. 7. 36. which words, hee putteth it in the will and power of the father, either to bestow or not to bestow his daughter in marriage, saying, in do­ing either of the twaine he sinneth not. Yet it is written in another place: If her father refuse to Exod. 22. 16. 17 giue her to him, he shall pay money according to the dowry of Virgins. In which words, the Lord doth giue an absolute authority to the father, to yeeld, or not to yeeld his consent, to giue, or not to giue his daughter. For if he haue power to denie it to his daughter that is deflowred, & so, by the Apostles iudgement, made one flesh with another; much more lawfully may he de­ny his consent to her that is no maner of way bound, but is euery way free. And if hee haue 1. Cor. 6. 16. power to deny his consent in such a case, much more hath he power to giue his consent.

Now his authoritie and power to deny his consent, is apparant by the expresse comman­dement of God in that behalfe, which sayth, Take heede to thy selfe, that thou make no com­pact with the inhabitants of the land, and so take of Exod. 34. 16. their daughters vnto thy sonnes, &c. More plain, Neither shalt thou make marriages with them, neither giue thy daughter vnto his sonne, nor take Deut. 7. 3. [Page 134] his daughter to thy sonne. How could those pa­rents obserue this commandement, vnlesse God had giuen them power to deny consent to the [...] children? Or why doth he rather forbid to the Parents, then to the children, but to shew th [...] the power to giue, or not to giue was in the Pa­rents, and not in the children: especially cons [...] ­dering that children, being the principall par [...] of their Parents goods, are no lesse in their pow­er and authoritie to giue and bestow, then the rest are. This was so wel knowne in the Churc [...] and so vsually practised among the people o [...] God, that the greatest among them, who might seeme to haue greatest libertie in that behalfe durst not disobay this holy commandement [...] God. For Sampson, the strongest of all, though he loued a mayd of the Philistins, yet he du [...] [...]udg. 15. not betroth himselfe vnto her, before hee [...] intreated his parents to giue her vnto him.

Dauid a mightie valiant Prince, begg [...] [...] Sam. 3. 14. Michal at the hands of Saul her father, and [...] ter his death, being betrothed vnto her, he [...] sired her of Ishbosheth her brother. Iacob agre [...] with Laban for his wiues. And Abraham [...] Gen. 29. 18. &c. father of the faithfull, by his seruant, intrea [...] Rebeccaes parents to giue her to wife to [...] sonne Isaac. All which testimonies and ex [...] ples doe plainely prooue the greatet inter [...] power and authoritie, that parents haue in [...] stowing their children, and that their cons [...] added to the sixe former points, whereof [...] [Page 135] haue spoken, doth make so sure a Contract, as cannot be loosed and vntyed by any authoritie vnder heauen. For here in this, that saying of Christ, (Matth. 19. 6.) is truely verified: Let no men put asunder that which GOD hath cou­pled together. But if this, or any of the former be omitted, the Contract may be broken and disanulled. And least wee should be igno­rant, or forget what those errours are, which disauow and lawfully frustrate a Contract, these they be.

First, if there be onely a naked shew of a pro­mise, 1 and yet no promise indeed.

Secondly, if any other thing be promised 2 then marriage.

Thirdly, if the promise be conuinced to be 3 meere hypocriticall or forced.

Fourthly, if one of the parties alone do pro­mise, 4 and not both.

Fiftly, if it were made betweene other crea­tures, 5 or promisons, or betweene moe then one man and one woman.

Sixtly, if the persons contracted, or either of 6 them, be altogether vnfit for marriage.

Seuenthly, if either of them be formerly 7 betrothed, or haue committed adulterie after the Contract, or be allied, or of kin, or for any other cause not at libertie to marrie.

Eightly, if there lacke the consent of the 8 parents.

If all or any of these be vndoubtedly known, [Page 136] and cleerely prooued, they do ioyntly and [...] rally frustrate or nullifie the Contract, so [...] Magistrate may lawfully dissolue the sam [...] set the parties at libertie. But contrarily, [...] these concurre and accord, the Contract [...] uiolable as marriage it selfe: neither [...] parties be set at libertie by themselues, or [...] power whatsoeuer, because this Contract, [...] uerie parcel thereof, is in the Lord, it [...] sacred ordinance of GOD, as it cann [...] haue speciall vse and fruit among his S [...] so now it is time to declare and te [...] same.

1 First therefore it serueth as a strong b [...] pull backe the force and headinesse of [...] naturall, and brutish lust. For if this C [...] be holily and dutifully kept, according [...] former doctrine, it would neuer come [...] that any person, man or woman, should their bodies suddenly, or hastily vpon eu [...] stigation of lust, like bruite beastes, but [...] willingly in all modestie and sobriet [...] sufficient time of deliberation, for the [...] and accomplishing of this necessarie and Contract: which is ordained to this end men might haue sufficient time of del [...] on, to learne all the vses and abuses, al c [...] dities and incommodities, all comforts [...] comforts, with all duties and breaches [...] ties, that can fall in the honourable est [...] marriage.

Secondly, it serueth to discouer betimes, and 2 in good season, all sorts of impediments & lets that may or ought to hinder the marriage that is promised. Hence came that ancient & most excellent custome of asking the banes of Ma­trimonie thrice, on three seuerall daies, to the end that euery materiall defect might be learned in time when it might be remedied, rather then after marriage accomplished, when it is reme­dilesse.

Thirdly, it serueth for the keeping and pre­seruation of honest chastitie; seeing by this 3 meanes, not onely former promises and con­tracts, but also fornications (if any haue beene) and adulteries, may be descried and discerned. For after Ioseph was contracted, before hee was married, his wife was found to be with childe; though without ill demeanour on her part, yet it made Ioseph so afraid, that he had intended in his heart priuately to relinquish & forsake her, and had so done indeed, had not Gods Angell commaunded the contrary. Neuerthelesse, it was the Contract that discouered this trueth, & so preserued Maries virginitie, that the Scrip­ture might be fulfilled, which saith, A Virgin shall conceaue, &c. If this were not, men might vpon knowledge or ignorance make two se­uerall contracts with seuerall persons, and com­mit fornication and adulterie with other mens wiues, either betrothed or married, and so lose their honestie & chastitie, to their great infamie [Page 138] and hinderance.

4. Last of all, it serueth to condemne an [...] uoyd all priuate Contracts, and secret marriag [...] and contrarily, to iustifie and grace the ho [...] rable estate of marriage, as well in the beg [...] ning, as in the end thereof, that all things [...] ching the same might be begun, conti [...] and finished in the Lord, according to his c [...] mandement, that his promised blessings mi [...] ensue vpon it accordingly.

This being done, the parents and parties [...] to be charged in the name of God, as they [...] answere at the day of iudgement, plainly to [...] wray and declare, if they know any of the f [...] said impediments in themselues, or in t [...] children, for which this Contract ought not [...] be made. If they say, they know none, [...] if they declare none, then the consent of [...] parents is to be demanded: which if they yee [...] then the consent of the parties is also to be [...] quired. And so the parties are to be betro [...] and affianced in these words, or such like:

The same is to be done by the woman, [...] [Page 139] namely onely changed, and al in the presence of the parents, kinsfolkes and friends. After this, the parents are to be admonished, to set and appoint the day of marriage neither too neere, nor too farre off, but to appoint a competent space of time, that it may be sufficient for the learning and triall of all lets and impediments whereby promised mariage might be hindred, and yet giue no occasion by reason of the length thereof, to prouoke the parties to incon­tinencie. In the meane time, the parties affian­ced, are to be admonished to abstaine from the vse of marriage, and to behaue themselues wise­ly, chastly, louingly, and soberly, till the day ap­pointed doe come. And so with a Psalme and prayer to conclude the holy action. Now that there should be a competent space betweene the time of the Contract, and the day of marri­age it is very necessarie for these causes.

1. That there might be some preparation for the things pertaining to house-keeping, be­tweene that time and the celebrating of marri­age: but this is not a chiefe cause.

2. Because the Lord would by this meanes make a difference betwixt bruit beasts & men, and betwixt the prophane & his children. For they euen as beasts, do after a beastlike manner, beingled by a natural instinct & motion come together: but God will haue this difference, wherby his children should be seuered from that brutish manner, in that they should haue a [Page 140] certaine distance of time betweene the [...] of affection, and enioying one of another [...] a more neere ioyning of one vnto anothe [...]

3. That they should on that time think [...] the causes why they are to marry, and [...] ties of marriage. For many enter therei [...] considering at all of the great duties belo [...] to them in the same, nor thinking of the [...] bles and afflictions that follow marriage [...] the Lord would haue these things though [...] and a consideration to be had, both of the [...] ses of marriage, and the duties to be per [...] and the troubles to be vndergone.

A good and carcfull housholder so orde [...] and frameth his houshold, as it may m [...] appeare, that it is in deed the house of a f [...] full Christian, and that he himselfe is as a p [...] ouer his familie, that he instructeth it d [...] ­ly in the feare of God, and keepeth it in [...] and godly discipline by continuall exe [...] godlinesse. So that in his house, you shall [...] the chaste wife, the shame-faced, pla [...] modest wife, decked without as she is [...] no painted nor masked thing, rendring [...] obedience to her husband, and hauing a [...] full eye vpon her family, seruants and ch [...] the master, father, and husband; the ch [...] and seruants; euery one likewise in his d [...] imploying himselfe sincerely in his [...] and office, approuing his doings as b [...] GOD.

Now, like as in the minde there are such Frovvard vvic­ked qualities of the minde. 1. Cor. 5. 10, 11. and 6. 9. Gal. 5. 19. 20. 21. 2. Tim. 3. 2. 3. 4. 5. vertues, as wee haue before spoken of: so are there in it also noysome wicked vices and detra­ctions, as vngodlines, despising of Gods word, vnbeliefe, idolatrie, superstition, ignorance, churlishnesse, lying, falsehood, hypocrisie, vn­righteousnesse, swearing, backbiting, mistempe­rance, drunkennes, gluttony, couetousnes, vncha­stitie, vnshamefastnesse, misnourture, rashnesse, furiousnesse, wantonnesse, pride, presumption, vain-glorie, chiding, brawling, and vnhandsom­nesse. Who so now chooseth him a wife, or she a husband, that is infected and tangled with such noysome vices, he seeketh not a spouse, or shee a husband, for a right, peaceable, good, honest, and christian life: but an hell, a paine­fulnesse, and destruction of all expedient, quiet, and vertuous liuing: but specially, there is litle good to be hoped for of him or her, wheras vngodlinesse and contempt of the word remai­neth. For like as the feare of God draweth the whole garland of vertues with it: so vngod­lines and despising of God word, bring all vice & abhominations; yea, and shutteth vp the way to amendement.

When these points and rules are dulie and warily obserued on either part, they may ioyne together, and say as Laban and Bethuel sayd, This commeth of the Lord, therefore we will not speake against it. Oh how happy are those in whom faith, loue and godlinesse are married [Page 142] together, before they marrie themselu [...] none of these carnall, clowdie, and whi [...] marriages can say, that godlinesse was [...] and bidden to the bridall, and therefore [...] blessings which are promised to Godli [...] flie from them.

2. After the riches of the mind, doe [...] ches of the body follow next: of which [...] 2. The riches of the bodie. a comely, beautifull, or well fauoured b [...] health, a conuenient age, &c. A beautifu [...] is such a one, as is of right forme and [...] Beautie. meete, and of strength to beare children, [...] gouerne an house; euen such a one as b [...] man and woman can finde in their hea [...] fainedly to loue aboue all other, and to b [...] tent withall, &c. As concerning the be [...] comelines of the body (where there is [...] good propertie or qualitie beside) S [...] saith, Pro. 31. 30. Fauour is deceitfull, a [...] tie is vanitie: but the woman that fea [...] Lord, she shall be praised. And Pro. 11. 22, [...] iewell of gold in a swines snout: so is a faire [...] which lacketh discretion, or is of vncome [...] hauiour, and hath not wit nor gouern [...] behaue her selfe. For beautie is a fraile g [...] a slipperie, and more profitable to those behold it, then to those that haue it.

The beautifull woman can take no [...] pleasure in beautie, but a little as it we [...] glasse, and yet incontinently she forgetteth [...] she beheld and saw: and yet it is many [...] [Page 143] both to her selfe and to them that behold her beautie a prouocation to much euill. She that is faire waxeth proud of it, and he that doth be­hold her becommeth subiect vnto filthy loue. But in the minde (which is iudged to be the man) consist the true lineaments and proper­ties of fairenesse, which intice and prouoke spirituall and heauenly loue, being mixt with nothing that is shamefull, either to be done or spoken. And therefore there is no man so farre without wit, that had not rather haue her which is foule and hard fauoured, but yet is honest & vertuous, then to haue her which is faire and vnhonest, and also irreligious.

Happie, and twice happie is that man and that woman that are coupled in marriage with a godly and vertuous mate and bedfellow; they are doubtlesse greatly blessed of God. For house and riches are the inheritance of the fathers, but a prudent Wife commeth of the Lord. They therefore are not well in their wits, but great­ly deceiue themselues that make choyse of Wiues, or Husbands, hauing regard onely to their Stature, comelinesse of Personage, or to their beautie, and esteeme not more the riches of the minde.

Health also must be considered in their choyse, least otherwise great inconueniences come thereby, and least the whole house be poi­soned and infected. But wee speake here of contagious sicknesses, and not of such common [Page 144] infirmities and vsual diseases, that both men [...] women are subiect vnto. As of mad [...] frenzie, french pockes, or such like: which [...] rie wise man and woman doth vtterly dete [...].

Neuerthelesse, where any married p [...] are now together, and be visited with [...] such diseases, they must one comfort and [...] fer with the other, as they are now one [...] die, &c.

To haue temporall preferments, is [...] borne of noble parents, or to come of wor [...] full stocke, to haue lands, liuings, riches, g [...] fices, gaines, or occupyings, and such like. [...] the chiefest nobilitie, and most worthy of [...] mendation, is indeed to be noble in vertue [...] good works, manners and conditions. Bu [...] borne of gentiliue, and to vse and behaue [...] selfe vngently, is euen as much as to s [...] himselfe and his kindred.

Such therefore as purpose to marry, [...] carefully to foresee and looke to this m [...] least being too greedie of honour, wors [...] wealth, and intending to haue the Gold, [...] catch the hotte coales, and burne thems [...] without recouery: for a man may buy gold [...] Chuse a wife for vertue onely. Pro. 19. 14. deare (as we vsually say.) For temporall g [...] sak [...], the matter miscarieth, and is in dang [...]

There is sometime great wealth, but [...] little honestie, and lesse good conscience i [...] gathered together. And with the same [...] will not continue alwayes prosperity, pea [...] [Page 145] quietnesse. Many so trust to their wealth, as that they will not frame themselues to any law­full calling, neither will they learne any: there­fore also can they doe nothing to profit their countrie, and the common-wealth, but liue idly and daintily, and with pride, riot, excesse, & honesty doe quickly waste that which hath bin long in gathering together. Now, when there is alway taking from the heape, and nothing laide thereto, it wasteth away in processe of time, how great soeuer it hath beene. Then fol­loweth pouertie: yea, an intollerable, and vn­patient pouertie: for they that now lauish and spend prodigally altogether, haue had no ne­cessitie hitherto, but flowed in all wealth: there­fore after such a sunne-shine there commeth ever an extreame heate, and thenceforth be­ginne they to warme themselues at the bare leaues, and to spare when all is spent.

Such then as in their choise looke to the mul­titude of goods, and regard not how they were gotten, and whence they came, haue customa­bly such smoky hats set vpon their heads, that all the water in the riuer cannot wash away the corruption thereof. For goods without God, honestie, and good conscience, are deadly poy­ [...]on, and the bodily diuell himselfe. Yea, goods [...]nd riches in the hand of an vndiscre ete and ig­norant man are as a sharpe knife in the hand of a thild, that doth no good therewith, but wound & hurt himselfe. Wherefore euery man [Page 146] and euerie woman in their election c [...] haue more respect to vertue, godlinesse, [...] tion and knowledge, then to riches. Mo [...] an hand that is occupied and winneth [...] teth his liuing godly, christianly, and h [...] doth farre excell any riches that are wo [...] though the world esteeme them happy [...] liue in wealth, ease, and idlenes: yet t [...] Ghost approueth & alloweth them best [...] of the meane profit of their labours. Ps. 1 [...]

And this also, is a very necessarie po [...] Seeke no match in mar­riage aboue thy degree. obserued, that the man chuse such a [...] and the woman such a man, as that th [...] qualitie betwixt them both, in blood & [...]

For by how much the greater and s [...] Equalitie in marriage to be respected. the coniunction is of the husband and [...] so much the more ought eucrie one to p [...] to be indifferently matched: and truth qualitie of marriage,, is in two speciall [...] be considered: to wit, estate and age. [...] two horses, or two oxen of vnequal sta [...] not be coupled vnder one selfe same y [...] noble woman matching with a man [...] estate; or contrarily, a Gentleman [...] begger, cannot be consorted and w [...] ched vnder the bands of wedlocke. [...] when it happeneth that a man marrieth [...] man of so high a birth, he ought (not for [...] that he is her husband) more to honou [...] steeme of her, then of his equall, or of [...] mener parentage: & not only to acco [...] [Page 147] his companion in loue, and in his life, but (in diuers actions of publike apparance) to hold her his superiour. Which honour is not yet accom­panied with reuerence, as is that which for man­ners sake we are wont to do to others. And she ought to consider, that no distinction or diffe­rence of birth and nobilitie can be so great, but that the league which both Gods ordinance & nature hath ordained betwixt men & women farre exceedeth it: for by nature woman was made mans subiect. But if a man shall take to wife an inferior or meane woman, he also ought to weigh, that Matrimonie maketh equall ma­ny differences: and further, that he hath not ta­ken her for a slaue or seruant, but for a fellow and companion of his life. And seeing that e­lection Of the chois [...] of a wife. or choise, is nothing else, but to take a thing meete and conuenient to the end it is pre­pared for: therefore euery one that must chuse ought to regard the end, & to know what thing is conuenient for it. So that it is needefull that he be wise and discreet, or else hee cannot dis­pose it, nor perceiue what thing is conuenient for it. Therefore, if a man would aduisedly consider that hee is to liue with his wife conti­nually, and shee with him, he would then be very circumspect in the choise of her, which choise maketh either very much for his felicitie and comfort, or else for his great miserie & dis­comfort. For by how much the more a thing is vnited and knit vnto man, so much the more [Page 148] it may either helpe him, if it be good, or hind [...] him, if it be euill. Those dammages and hu [...] which are inwardly in the body, are worse the [...] those which are without the bodies: and thos [...] of the soule, then those of the bodie: and li [...] wise men doe iudge of those thinges which [...] called good.

But peraduenture it may seeme vnto some that these things are not vniuersally true. F [...] vnto some the losse of their goods is more th [...] the losse of their health. But this thing do [...] not arise or happen of the goods or money [...] selfe, but because some man doth perswade hi [...] ­selfe, that to loose his goods is a thing intole­rable. And yet for al that, goods are not of mo [...] estimation, then is life or health: but it is a m [...] affection that doth rule in this thing. A [...] therefore it seemeth lesse to some, to be dri [...] out of a kingdome, then to other some to loo [...] a small portion of their possessions. Some w [...] reuenge a word most cruelly, and some othe [...] well beaten and buffeted, will not reuenge [...] at all.

All these things doe proceede and come [...] the soule, which is most inwardly ioyned a [...] knit vnto a man, and hath more power in h [...] then the bodie.

If it be then of so great importance, what [...] ner of friend thou haue to liue commodio [...] or incommodiously withall, which shall n [...] otherwise dwel or be in the selfe same chambe [...] [Page 149] bed, or house with thee, but that thou mayest shake him off at thy pleasure: how much more oughtest thou to take heede, when thou chusest thee a wife, which must be continually conuer­sant with thee, at thy table, in thy chamber, in bed, in thy secrets, and finally, in thy heart and breast? If thou goe from home, thou dost com­mit thy house, thy familie, thy goods, and thy children (of all other things the most pleasant) vnto her: she is the last that leaueth thee at thy departing, and the first that receiueth thee at thy returning: thou departest from her with sweet embracements and kisses, and with sweet kisses and embracements she receiueth thee at thy returne home: vnto her thou dis­closest thy ioy and heauinesse. So that it is an heauenly life to be conuersant, and in company with those that a man delighteth in and loueth. But it is a calamitie infernall, to be bound and forced to see those things that a man doth greatly hate and abhorre, or to be in company with those that a man would not be withall, and yet cannot be separated nor depart from them.

Hereof commeth, as wee doe see in some marriages, so great ruines, so wicked and vile deedes, as maimes, and murders commit­ted by such desperate persons as are loth to keepe, and yet cannot lawfully refuse nor leaue them.

Therefore young folkes ought not to be too [Page 150] rash and hastie in their choise, but to haue [...] good aduise and direction of their pare [...] and trustie friends in this behalfe, who h [...] better iudgement, and are more free from t [...] motions of all affections then they are, A [...] they must take heede lest following the lig [...] and corrupt iudgement of their owne affec [...] ons and mindes, they change not a short del [...] tation and pleasure into a continuall so [...] and repentance. For we learne by great and c [...] tinuall vse and experience of things, that the s [...] cret Contractes made betweene those that [...] yong, doe seldome prosper, whereas contra [...] wise, those marriages that are made and stab [...] shed by the aduise of wise and religious pare [...] doe prosper well.

But specially and before all things, such [...] purpose to marrie, must faithfully with feru [...] nesse, and stedfast beleefe, (without ceas [...] make their intercession and prayer vnto G [...] [...] good wife is [...]boue all [...]hings to be [...]raued of God [...]y prayer. to whom all hearts are open and knowne, [...] he would not suffer them to goe amisse, bu [...] a tender father) helpe and direct them to m [...] a right choyse, so as they may liue honest [...] and prosperously, as good Christians ought [...] his glory, and their owne comfort. For t [...] purpose, there is a notable example of Ele [...] Abrahams seruant, who being sent to get [...] make choise of a wife for Isaack his mast [...] sonne, beginneth his matter with prayer. Ge [...] 24. 12. &c. So did Isaack also, as it appeareth [...] [Page 151] the same Chapter, verse 63. When any haue determined with themselues to marry, and haue vsed all diligence thereto required, they must desire of God, by humble and earnest prayer, good and prosperous successe: in whose hand and power it is to giue it, so doubtlesse hee will effect it; if they aboue all other things shall haue an vndoubted hope and confidence in him. For if they, after that they haue setled themselues, and haue satisfied their appetites, shall then resort vnto God by prayer, desiring him that they may obtaine the thing that they most desire: it appeareth that they would make him the Minister of their voluptuous desires and pleasures; and so doing, their vowes and prayers become most manifest blasphemie.

And therefore a man should not come vn­to marriage as vnto a prophane thing, with a loose and vnprepared heart, but with a quier, and well purged minde, as to a thing most sa­cred and holy. For Matrimonie doth not con­sist onely in the coniunction of the body, ney­ther yet in dauncing, nor banketting, procee­ding and brought vnto vs with many other things from the Gentiles: but it should rather beseeme Christians, most studiously to pray vnto God, that so weightie a thing as Matrimo­ny is might haue good and prosperous successe. For Matrimony is a thing sanctified of God, Heb. 13. 4. the which willeth the matrimoniall imbrace­ments to be chast, the bed to be vndefiled, and [Page 152] their progeny vnspotted: & it is after the m [...] S. Paul, a signe of the great mysterie where [...] Christ doth indissolubly vnite himselfe [...] Eph. 5. 25. 26. 27 his Church. Therefore thou oughtest so [...] as shall lie in thee, to lift vp thy minde, and [...] member how great and worthy an image [...] dost represent, & that thy wife shall be vn [...] as the Church, and thou vnto her as Ch [...] therefore thou shouldest shew thy selfe [...] her, as Christ shewed himselfe vnto his Ch [...] The loue of Christ vnto his Church is i [...] dible, and thy loue also to thy wife ought [...] most effectuall.

Societie, and to liue together, is the [...] surest and strongest knot, to knit & ioyne [...] tie and loue among men, and beasts themse [...]

There can be no greater societie or co [...] ny, then is betweene a man and his wife: [...] house, whose goods, whose chamber, & [...] common, their children are common, and [...] themselues partakers of all good and euill [...] cesse, of prosperitie and aduersitie: the w [...] societie and fellowship, were sufficient to [...] and prouoke him that loueth not his wife, [...] loue and beneuolence. And what company [...] loue shall a man looke to haue of him th [...] ueth not his wife? There are, that in loue [...] amitie looke for gaine, as the vile Epicure [...] vnworthy to be beloued, men which loue th [...] selues, and not their friends. And if wee [...] regard vnto commoditie and profit, the [...] [Page 153] nothing that giueth so much as doth a good wife, no not horses, oxen, seruants or farmes: for a mans wife is the fellow and comforter of all cares and thoughts, and doth more faithfull and true seruice vnto him, then either maid-seruant or man-seruant, which doe serue men for feare, or else for wages: but thy wife will be led onely by loue, and therefore she doth euery thing bet­ter then all other.

And this doth God declare, saying: Let vs make Adam a helper like vnto himselfe: By the Helper, is signified the vtilitie and profit of the seruice, and by the similitude and likenesse are signified loue and helpfulnesse. For a seruant and he that is hired are insufficient to supply that place, there can neither be so much loue, and abilitie to minister helpe and comfort to a man, as will be found in a faithfull Wife.

The child is part of the father, and through a naturall pitie, they loue each other: but yet the wife is more annexed & ioyned to her husband. The father doth labour and taketh paine for his children, but the children seldome labour or take paines for their fathers, and often times are sent to inhabite and dwell in other mens houses, whereby in a manner it appeareth, that their streight and fast societie doth dissolue and breake: but the Wife cleane contrarie, doth continually take paines for her husband, who may neither (as long as shee liueth) change house nor bed. If commoditie and profit be [Page 158] looked for, no commoditie excelleth this [...] thou shalt loue thy life, thou shalt liue [...] pleasantly, if not, thy life will be most miser [...] and wretched. For there is nothing so sh [...] nor so bitter, as to hate the thing that doth [...] uour and loue thee, nor any thing more happ [...] then to loue him that loueth thee. Theref [...] loue, that thou mayest be loued.

Now we will in few words shew the o [...] ons of Wedlocke, why and wherefore it [...] ordayned, and for what purpose it should [...] contracted; that euery man and woman [...] the better vnderstand to what thing they [...] sent, when either of them graunteth to m [...] the other.

Doubtlesse it cannot otherwise be, but [...] marriage, which was ordained of such an [...] cellent author, as of God himselfe, and in [...] a worthy place, as Paradise; and of such ancient time, as in the state of Adams [...] Eues innocencie, and after such a notable [...] der, must likewise haue speciall causes, for ordinance of it. Therefore the holy Scrip [...] doth declare chiefely three causes the [...] The first is, the procreation, begetting, [...] bringing vp of children. Gen. 1. 27. 28. & 9 [...] Three causes of Marriage. For in the children doe the parents liue ( [...] a sort) euen after death.

And, if they be well and vertuously bro [...] vp God is greatly honoured by them, the c [...] mon wealth is aduanced: yea, their parents [...] [Page 159] all other faire the better for them. For they are their parents comfort next vnto God: their ioy, staffe, and vpholding of their age: and there­fore parents ought to begin betimes to plant vertue in their childrens breasts: for late sowing bringeth sometimes a late, but neuer an apt haruest: young branches will bow as a man will haue them: but old trees will sooner break then bow, &c. But more of this shall be saide after, in the dutie of parents.

Although marriage be a holy and sanctified ordinance, yet none may vse the benefite of it, Psal. 51. 5. without some acknowledgement of originall sin, in that vacleannes may be practized there­in, which should cause Gods children to vse this meanes with as much chastitie as may be, and husband and wife to keepe themselues to­gether in the feare of God, and in all modestie and sobrietie. If then in marriage it selfe there be such mischiefes, what hellish mischiefe is ther in those lustes, which are not repressed with these considerations? So that marriage is not a mad and dissolute estate, to giue libertie to their wiues in vncleannes, nor wiues to consent with their husbands in impuritie, by immoderate, intemperate, or excessiue lust.

Many thinke they cannot sinne in this be­halfe if they passe not their owne wiues: but they may make their marriage polluted and defiled, if they vse it without prayer and sober­nesse. &c. 1. Tim. 4. 4. 5.

Therefore the husband is to forbe [...] company of his wife, when it is with he [...] is common to women, &c. Ezechiel, [...] Leuiticus 18. 19. 24. 27. 29. and 29. 18. [...] was one of the sinnes for which the Lord [...] ted out the Cananites out of their land.

The second occasion why marriage w [...] The 2. cause. Wedlocke law­full for such as haue not the gift of chastity. dained, was, that the wife might be a lawf [...] medie to auoid whoredome, fornication, [...] all filthy vncleane lusts. 1. Cor. 7. 2, 3. &c. [...] ching this point, I will say no more: for [...] handled at large by others alreadie, and [...] else where sufficiently discoursed of it.

The third and last cause was, for mans [...] moditie, The 3. cause. to the end to auoid the inconue [...] of solitarinesse, that the one may help & [...] fort the other, in sicknesse, in affliction, [...] all household cares, and trouble, as edu [...] of children, and keeping the familie in [...] For this cause, old men and old women [...] lawfully marrie. So that a wife is called by s [...] himselfe, an Helper, and not an impedime [...] a necessarie euill, as some vnaduisedly doe [...] and as other some say: It is better to bu [...] wife, then to marrie one: againe, if we co [...] without women, we should be without g [...] troubles.

These and such like sayings, tending to [...] This is often found most true: that such as are contem­ners of mari­age, are most offenders a­gainst marri­age, and liue most vnchastly dispraise of women, some maliciously and discreetly doe vomit out, contrarie to the [...] of the holy Ghost, who saith, that shee [...] [Page 157] ordained as a Helper, and not a hinderer. And if they be otherwise, it is for the most part, through the fault, and want of discretion, and lacke of good gouernment in the husband. For maried folkes, for two eyes, haue foure: and for two hands as many moe: which being ioyned together, they may the more easilie dispatch their handy businesse, and household affaires.

For like as a man hauing one hand or one foote, if by any meanes hee get himselfe an o­ther, may thereby the more easily lay hold on what he listeth, or goe whither he will: euen so, hee that hath married a wife, shall more easily enioy the healthfull pleasures, and profitable commodities of this present life. For in trou­ble, the one is a comfort to the other, in aduersi­tie, the one a refreshing vnto the other: yea, and in all their life, the one is a helpe and succour to the other.

Most true it is, that women are as men are, reasonable creatures, and haue flexible wits both to good and euill, the which with vse, dis­cretion, and good counsell, may be altered and turned. And although there be some euill and lewde women, yet that doth no more prooue the malice of their nature, then of men. And therefore the more ridiculous and foolish are they, that haue inueighed against the whole sexe for a few euill: and haue not with like fury, vituperated and dispraised all mankind, because [Page 154] part of them are theeues murtherers, and [...] like wicked liuers.

But the marriage and companie of [...] band and wife, is made amiable, sweet, & [...] fortable, by these fiue meanes: by god [...] vertue, mutuall forbearing, mutuall lo [...] by dutifulnesse performed busily and god [...] both sides.

1. Godlinesse, of right holdeth the [...] place. For there is no stable and stedfas [...] ship, vnlesse it haue his beginning from [...] and therefore must godlinesse needes s [...] fore the rest. For when couples haue d [...] ned to obey God, all things afterward b [...] more easie.

2. Vertue and honest conditions, [...] mutuall delight betweene man and [...] when vertue is exercised, it maketh c [...] tion of liuing more amiable.

3. Mutuall forbearing, whereby we [...] good worth one anothers conditions, & [...] is very needfull. For in this weakenesse [...] ture there happen many scapes, wh [...] breede strife, if they be not couered by [...] forbearing.

4. Mutuall loue hauing his begin [...] godlinesse and true vertue, maketh the [...] and wife not to be too sharpe sighted i [...] ing into one anothers faults: but th [...] things either they marke not, or if they [...] them they couer them with loue. [...] [Page 155] couereth a multitude of sinnes, 1 Peter 4. 8. Prou. 10. 12.

5 Dutie performed godlily, carefully, and cheerefully on both sides, maketh the marriage yoke light and sweet. For when man and Wife marke one another, and finde like heedfulnesse and buxomnesse in their dutie, both their com­panie is made more pleasant, and they are the more stirred vp on both sides to render duti­fulnes, that the one may requite the other a­like. Where these fiue duties be not, the com­pany of their life is both lothsome and bitter, or rather more sharpe then death. Therefore the godly couples must doe their endeauour that these vertues may be seene in their life con­tinually for euer.

Now we will (through Gods assistance) say something concerning the three seuerall points contayned in this dutie, and mentioned in the beginning hereof, and so end this dutie.

1 The first whereof is, that the Husband must liue with his Wife according to know­ledge. The point of Doctrine is most plainly proued by the Apostle Peter, wher he saith, 1 Peter. 3. 7. By Honour is meant, that the Husband ought to su­staine and re­lieue the wants of his Wife, to support, vp­hold, and beare with her infir­mities, as the weaker vessell Ye Husbands dwell with your Wiues as men of know­ledge, giuing honour vnto the Woman as vnto the weaker vessell, euen as they which are heyres together of the grace of life, that your prayers be not interrupted. Whereby hee teacheth the Husband his duety, to wit, that the more vnder­standing and wisedome God hath indued him [Page 160] with, the more wisely and circumspectly [...] ought to behaue himselfe in the bearing [...] discommodities, which through his W [...] weakenesse, oftentimes cause some iarre [...] dislike one to the other. Neuerthelesse, th [...] she be by nature weaker then hee, yet she [...] excellent instrument for him, made for [...] profitable vse: whereupon it followeth, [...] she is not therefore to be neglected b [...] she is weake, but on the contrarie part, [...] ought to be so much the more cared for l [...] as a vessell the weaker it is, the more it is [...] fauoured and spared, if we will haue it to [...] nue: euen so a wife, because of her infir [...] is so much the more to be borne withall of [...] husband. 1. Pet. 3. 7. And for so much as [...] husband and wife are equall, in that whi [...] the chiefest, that is to say, in that gracious [...] free benefit, whereby they haue euerlasting [...] giuen them, though otherwise I confesse [...] quall, as touching the gouernance and c [...] sation at home, the wife is not to be disp [...] although she be weake. And besides, all [...] lings Besides the prayers had with their fa­mily, they must [...]ray priuatly. Gen. 25. 21. 1. Cor. 7. 3. 4. 5. and chidings must be eschued and [...] way, because they hinder praiers, and the [...] seruice of God, whereunto both the hu [...] and the wife are equally called.

Also for the more confirmation of this po [...] the Apostle Paul likewise saith: Let the [...] band giue vnto the wife due beneuolence, [...] likewise also the wife vnto the husband: [...] [Page 161] wife hath not power of her owne bodie but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not the power of his owne bodie but the wife. Defraud not one another, except it be with consent for a time, that yee may giue your selues to fasting and prayer, and againe come together, that Sathan tempt you not for your incontinencie. Which is, as if the Apostle should say, the parties married must with singular affection entirely loue one the other, for that they are each in others po­wer, as touching the bodie: so that they may not defraud one another, except the one ab­staine from the other by mutuall consent, that they may the better giue themselues to prayer, wherein notwithstanding, they must consider what is expedient, lest by this long breaking off as it were, from marriage, they be stirred vp to incontinencie.

The second point, is, that the husband should not be bitter, fierce, or cruell vnto his wife: which point is prooued by the said A­postle, saying: Husbands loue your Wiues, and Coloss. 3. 19. be not bitter vnto them.

First, and aboue all things, the husband Anger in a husband is a vice. must be circumspect to keepe the band of loue, and beware that there neuer spring vp the [...]oote of bitternes betwixt him and his wife. [...]f at any time there happen to arise any cause The roote of bitternesse to be weeded out with the spade of patience. [...]f vnkindnesse betwixt them, (as it is vnpossi­ [...]le alwaies to be free from it) then he must be [...]refull to weede vp the same with all lenitie, [Page 162] gentlenesse, and patience, and neuer [...] himselfe nor his wife to sleepe in disple [...] Ephesians, 4. 26. And if hee shall haue occ [...] How & when the husband ought to re­proue. to speake sharpely, and sometimes to rep [...] hee must beware that hee doe not the [...] in the presence of other: but let him keep [...] words vntill a conuenient time, (which i [...] point of a wise man) and then vtter t [...] the spirit of meeknesse, and in the spirit [...] fect loue: and he must not let sometime [...] uer faults, and winke at them, if they be [...] great and intollerable. Whatsoeuer l [...] Faultes some­times must be couered with loue. mischance shall happen vnto him, let hi [...] it patiently, and beare it cheerfully: yea, t [...] the same should come partly through hi [...] negligence, yet let it rather be a louing [...] ning to take better heed in time to come [...] a cause of sorrow for that which is past, [...] not be holpen.

Euery wise man by his owne expe [...] Not to take vnkindnesse for euery trifle. knoweth, that he is in this life subiect [...] inconueniences, and that of nature he i [...] to displeasure, and readie to take vnk [...] for euery trifle, and specially with [...] friends, yea soonest with his louing w [...] is lothest to displease him. Let him t [...] beware of this cankered corruption, [...] sider that he ought most of all, in loue [...] with his wife, according to Christs exa [...] wards his Church, who gaue himselfe [...] he might sanctifie it, and cleanse it by the [...] [Page 163] of water through the word: That he might make it vnto himselfe a glorious Church, not hauing spot or wrinckle, or any such thing: but that it Ephes. 5. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. should be holy and without blame: So ought men to loue their wiues as their owne bodie: hee that lo­ueth his wife, loueth himselfe. For no man yet euer hated his owne flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, euen as the Lord doth the Church. As if the Apostle had said: The husbands dutie [...] to loue their wiues as themselues, of which The husband is to the wife in Gods stead. loue, the loue of Christ toward his Church is a liuely paterne. And because many husbands pretend the infirmities of their wiues, to excuse their owne hardnesse and crueltie, the Apostle willeth them to marke what maner of Church it was, when Christ ioyned it to himselfe, and how hee doth not onely not lothe all her filth and vncleannesse, but ceaseth not to wipe the same away with his cleannesse, vntill hee haue wholy purged it, and made it holy. And seeing that euery man loueth himselfe euen of nature: therefore (saith the Apostle) the husband shall striue against nature, if hee loue not his wife: which hee prooueth, first by the misticall knit­ [...]ing of Christ and the Church together, and [...]hen by the ordinance of GOD, who saith, that the husband and wife are one: that is, [...]ot to be deuided.

The husband is alwaies to remember, that Husbands may not be rigorous to­wards their wiues, especi­ally when they be new mar­ried. Pro. 20. 3. [...]e be not fierce, rigorous, hastie, nor disor­ [...]ed with his wife: for then there will neuer [Page 164] be vnitie and concord betwixt them. If the [...] do not learne to keepe silence, and the husba [...] to haue patience, it shall rather be the dwell [...] of fooles, then the house of friends. For whe [...] the husband wanteth wisedome to gouer [...] and the wife patience to suffer, they shall [...] forced (it is to be feared) in continuance [...] time, to part house, or else euery day to be i [...] ring and brawling.

Euery married man ought also to reme [...] The Wife is not to be vsed or intreated as a Handmaide or seruant, but as a fellow. Pro. 8. 7. & 14. 9. & 15. 5. & 18. 2. & 27. 22. Pro. 9. 9. & 19. 25. Gen. 16. 6. this, that either his wife is wise and religi [...] else she is foolish and irreligious. If he be [...] ched with a wife that is sottish, foolish, and [...] norant of God and his word, it will little a [...] or profit him to reprehend or chide he [...] he be married to one that is wise and relig [...] and knoweth her dutie out of Gods word, [...] one sharpe and discreet word is sufficient [...] cause if a woman be not corrected, by [...] which is wisely and discreetly said, she w [...] uer amend by that which is threatned. W [...] the wife shall be inflamed with ire, wrath [...] lice, or enuie, the husband ought to suffer [...] and after the heat is somewhat cooled, and [...] flame quenched, then mildly to admonish [...] for if she once begin to lose her shamefu [...] in the presence of her husband, then it is l [...] that there will often follow braulings and [...] rels betwixt them. And as the husband [...] at all times to shun braulings and quarre [...] with his wife, so much more he ought to [...] [Page 165] the same, when they shall be newly married. For if at the beginning shee shall haue cause to abhorre and hate him, then late or neuer will she returne to loue him faithfully. Therefore at the beginning of their marriage, the wise and discreet husband ought to vse all good meanes to winne the good liking of his wife towards him: for if then their loue be fixed and truely setled one towardes the other, although after­wards they come to some houshold words and grudgings, yet it proceedeth but of some new vnkindnes, and not of old rooted hatred, and The falling out of louers is the renew­ing of loue. therefore the sooner remedied. For loue and hatred be mortall enemies, and the first of them that taketh place in the hart, there it remaineth adweller, for the most part all the dayes of life: in such wise, that the first loue may depart from the person, but yet it will neuer be forgotten at the heart. But if the wife from the beginning of marriage, doe take the heart to lothe and ab­horre her husband, then a miserable life will follow to them both. For although the hus­band shall haue power to force his wife, to feare and obay him, yet hee shall neuer haue strength to force her to loue him.

Some husbands doe boast themselues to be serued, feared, and obayed in their houses, be­cause the wife that abhorreth, doth feare and serue her husband: but shee that indeed liketh, doth loue him and cherish him. As the wife ought with great care to endeuour and by all [Page 166] good meanes to labour to be in fauou [...] grace with her husband: so likewise the [...] ­band ought to feare to be in disgrace and [...] ­king with his wife: for if shee doe once de [...] mine to fixe and settle her eyes and liking [...] on another, then many inconueniences wi [...] sue and follow.

The husband ought not to be satisfied [...] the vse of his wiues body, but in that hee [...] also the possession of her will and affect [...] for it sufficeth not that they be married, [...] that they be well married, and liue Christi [...] together, and be very well contented. A [...] therefore the husband that is not beloued his wife, holdeth his goods in danger, his [...] in suspition, his credit in ballance, and [...] sometime his life in perill; because it is [...] to beleeue that shee desireth not long li [...] to her husband, with whom shee passeth [...] so tedious and irkesome. And if any vn [...] nesse or displeasure should happen to be [...] any time betwixt the husband and his w [...] neither of them ought to impart, or to [...] it knowne vnto any one of their neighb [...] for if they be such as wish them euill, they [...] reioyce at it, & if they be such as wish the [...] then they minister matter whereof to t [...]

That husband that is matched and [...] That man is miserable that is married vn­to a foolish wo­man. encounter with a wife that is dizzard, a [...] a babler, light of behauiour, a glutton, [...] der, slothfull, a gadder abroad, vnt [...] [Page 167] iealous, or dissolute, &c. it were better for him to be a slaue to some honest man, then a hus­band to such a wife.

The best rule that a man may hold and pra­ctise with his wife to guard and gouerne her, is to admonish her often, and to giue her good instructions, to reprehend her seldome, neuer to lay violent hands on her, but if shee be good and dutifull, to fauour her, to the end shee may continue so: and if shee be shrewish and way­ward, mildly to suffer her, to the end that she waxe not worse. But some husbands be of so sowre a nature, and so vnpleasant in their beha­uiour, that they can hardly be loued, no not of their wiues, their countenance is so lowring, their company so currish, that they seeme an­grie euen when they be best pleased: they can­not speake faire, scarce will they laugh when their wiues laugh vpon them: a man would say, they were borne in an angry houre.

This is also a dutie not to be forgotten, Husbands must prouide things neces­sarie for the house. A mans house will continue by prouision before hand, and by order in his expen­ces. Rom. 12. 17. 1 Tim. 5. 8. namely, that husbands be diligent and carefull to make prouision for their houses, to clothe their wiues decently, to bring vp their children vertuously, and to pay their seruants duely: be­cause that in voluntary matters men may be negligent, but the necessities of their house do neither suffer negligence nor forgetfulnes. The dutie of the husband is to get goods: and of the wife to gather them together, and saue them. The dutie of the husband is to trauell abroad to [Page 168] seeke liuing: and the wiues dutie is to [...] But where dis­order is in a house, it can­not endure. the house. The dutie of the husband is [...] money and prouision: and of the wiues [...] vainely to spend it. The dutie of the hus [...] is, to deale with many men: and of the wi [...] talke with few. The dutie of the husband i [...] be entermedling: and of the wife, to be s [...] and withdrawne. The dutie of the man [...] be skilfull in talke: and of the wife, to boast [...] lence. The dutie of the husband is, to be a [...] and of the wife, to be a sauer. The dutie [...] man is, to apparell himselfe as hee may: [...] Spare in time, and spend in time, for spa­ring is a rich purse. of the woman as it becommeth her, [...] dutie of the husband is, to be lord of all: [...] and of the wife, to giue account of all. The [...] of the husband is, to dispatch all things wi [...] doore: and of the wife, to ouersee and gi [...] der for all things within the house. [...] where the husband and wife performeth [...] duties in their house, we may call it a Co [...] of quietnes: the house wherein these are [...] lected, we may terme it a hell.

It is to be noted, and noted againe, [...] The honour of the Hus­band, depen­deth on the Wife. the prouision of household dependeth [...] on the husband: euen so the honour of [...] pendeth onely of the woman: in such s [...] there is no honour within the house, [...] then a mans wife is honourable. And the [...] the Apostle calleth the woman, The g [...] the man. But here it must bee noted a [...] membred, that we doe not intitle honourab [...] 1. Cor. 11. 7. [Page 169] to such, as be onely beautifull, comely of face, of gentilitie, of comely personage, and a good huswife: but onely, to her that is vertuous, honest of life, temperate, and aduised in her speech.

3. The last point is, that the husband loue, The third point. cherish, and nourish his wife, euen as his owne body, and as Christ loued his Church, and gaue himselfe for it, to sanctifie it. And this point is plainely proued by the Apostle Paul, as is suf­ficiently declared in the second point.

There are few husbands or wiues, that know in truth how they should loue one the other. If a man loue his wife onely for these respects, be­cause shee is rich, beautifull, noble, or because she contenteth and pleaseth him, after the sen­suall appetite of the flesh, and for such like causes; that is no true loue before God: for such loue may be among harlots and whores, yea among bruite beasts. But a Christian hus­band Cant. 4. 9. 10. 1. Cor. 9. 5. 1. Pet. 3. 7. must loue his wife, chiefly because she is his sister in the profession of the sound and Christian religion, and so an inheritour with him of the kingdome of heauen. And he must also loue her for her vertues, as for her shame­fastnesse, modestie, chastitie, diligence, patience, faithfulnesse, temperance, secrecie, obedience, and such like Christian qualities and graces of God: yea, although shee be but hard fauoured, and of poore parentage.

But as we would that the man when hee [Page 170] loueth, should remember his superiority, so [...] would that when he ruleth, he neither forge [...] loue, nor to temper his loue with grauitie. A [...] when he doth think himselfe to be the head [...] the soule, and the woman (as it were) the fl [...] and the body, he ought in like manner to [...] member, that she is his fellow, and compa [...] of his goods and labours, and that their child [...] be common betweene them, bone of the bo [...] and flesh of the flesh of man. And thus th [...] shall be in wedlocke a certaine sweet and pl [...] ­sant conuersation, without the which it is [...] marriage, but a prison, a hatred, and a perpet [...] torment of the mind. So that the husband [...] let his wife perceiue and know, that for [...] good opinion that he hath of her, he doth [...] her simply, and faithfully, and not for any [...] tie or pleasure. For who so doth not perce [...] that he is beloued for his owne sake, will [...] lightly doe the same to another: for the [...] that is loued, loueth againe.

If mony or nobilitie could perceiue and [...] derstand that they were beloued, they wo [...] they had any feeling at all of loue, requi [...] with loue: but when the soule is loued, i [...] much as it may loue, it giueth loue for loue, [...] loueth againe. The breaker of horses, that [...] vse to ride and to pace them, doth handle [...] rough and sturdie colt with all craft, rigour, a [...] fiercenes that may be: but with the colt that [...] more tractable, he taketh not so great paine. [...] [Page 171] sharpe and shrewd wife must be pleased and mittigated with loue, and ruled with authority: and the more gently thou doest vse and shew thy selfe vnto her that is meeke and honest, the more benigne and meeke thou shalt finde her. But she that is noble, and of a stout minde and stomacke, the lesse thou doest looke to be ho­noured, the more shee will obey and honour thee. But yet the wise husband shall neuer set himselfe so farre in loue, that he forget that he is a man, the ruler and gouernour of the house, and of his wife, and that he is set (as it were) in a Station to watch, and diligently to take heed what is done in his house, and to see who goeth out and in. And although the husband by Gods 1. Cor. 11. 3. Ephes. 5. 23. ordinance, be the head ouer his wife, yet hee may not abuse or despise her, but most louing­ly defend and keepe her from all iniuries, and all euils, as his owne bodie. For like as the head seeth and heareth for the whole bodie, ruleth and guideth the bodie, and giueth it strength of life: or as Christ doth defend, teach and pre­serue his Church, and is the Sauiour, comfort, eye, heart, wisedome, and guide thereof: euen so must the husband be head vnto his wife in like manner, to shew her like kindnes, and after the same fashion to guide her, and rule her with discretion, for her good and preseruation, and not with force & wilfulnesse to intreat her, but to be her defender, instructer, teacher, and comfort. So that when the husband hath [Page 172] obtained, that his wife doth truely and ha [...] loue him, there shal then need neither precep [...] nor lawes: for loue shall teach her moe thing [...] and more effectually, then all the precepts of [...] the Philosophers. He ought therefore to ind [...] ­uour, and more force himselfe, that his wife [...] loue him, then that shee may feare him. Wh [...] his wife shall offend or displease him, hee [...] not hate her, or quarrell with her, but patie [...] and mildly admonish her: For no man [...] Ephos. 5. 18. 29. hated (saith the Apostle) his owne bodie, [...] cherisheth it, and maketh much of it. So the [...] that loueth his wife, loueth himselfe: for the [...] by hee enioyeth peace and comfort, and he [...] to himselfe in all his affaires: therefore in [...] same verse, Paul counselleth husbands to l [...] their wiues, as their bodies. And after in the [...] verse, as though it were too little to loue th [...] as their bodies, hee saith: Let euerie one [...] his wife as himselfe: that is, as his bodie [...] soule too. For if God commanded men to [...] their neighbours as themselues, much mor [...] they bound to loue their wiues as themse [...] which are their next neighbours. As El [...] did not loue his wife lesse for her barren [...] but said: Am not I better vnto thee then [...] sonnes? as though hee fauoured her more, [...] 1. Sam. 18. that which she thought her selfe despised: So [...] good husband will not take occasion to lo [...] his wife lesse for her infirmities, but comfort [...] more for them, as this man did, that shee m [...] [Page] beare with his infirmities too. And so the one Gal. 6. 2. helping to beare the others burthen, they shall the better fulfill the law of Christ. For as in a citie, there is nothing more vnequall then that euerie man should be like equall: so it is not conuenient, that in one house euery man should be like and equall together. There is no equa­litie in that citie, where the priuate man is equal with the Magistrate, the people with the Se­nate, or the seruant with the master, but rather a confusion of all offices and authoritie.

The husband and the wife are Lords of the house: for vnto them the Lord said, Be ye Lords Gen. 1. 28. ouer the fish of the sea, and ouer the fowle of the heauen, and ouer euerie beast that moueth vpon the earth. And the selfe same Creator said, that the woman should be a helpe vnto the man. Gen. 2. 18. Therefore the husband without any exception, is master ouer all the house, & hath more to do in his house with his owne domesticall affaires, then the magistrate. The wife is ruler ouer all o­ther things, but yet vnder her husband. There are certaine things in the house, that only do ap­pertaine to the authoritie of the husband, wher­with it were a reproach for the wife, without the consent of her husband, to meddle: as to receiue strangers, or to marrie her daughter. But there are other things, in the which the hus­band giueth ouer his right vnto his wife: as to rule and gouerne her maidens: to see to those things that belong vnto the kitchin, and to [Page 174] huswiferie, and to their house-hold stuffe. O­ther meane things, as to buy and sell cer [...] necessarie things, may be ordered after the [...] wisedome, and fidelity of the woman. It can [...] wel be rehearsed, how many vtilities & profits, the mutuall concord and loue of man and wife, doth bring to great things, both at home and abroad, nor how many losses and incommodi­ties doe grow of the dissention and disc [...]de betweene them. For the household, when th [...] master and their mistresse, or dame, are at de­bate, can no otherwise be in quiet, and at [...] then a citie, whose Rulers agree not, but whe [...] it seeth them in concord and quietnesse, the [...] reioyceth, trusting that they will be euen so [...] to them, as it perceiueth them to be am [...] themselues. Wherein surely, they are not dece­ued, for if the man & his wife doe louingly [...] gently support and intreate one another, th [...] learne not to disdaine, or for euery light [...] to be angrie with their seruant, or yet for a [...] household wordes, to be vexed or angry [...] with the other, but they set aside all hastie [...] cruell wordes and correction, with all o [...] things, that issue and proceed of a disdainef [...] and a furious minde. And the seruants are [...] onely merrie therefore, but also they doe th [...] seruice the more obediently and cheerefully shewing reuerence vnto the authority that proceedeth and increaseth of quietnesse and concord. For the husband doth defend his wi [...] [Page 175] estimation, with loue and beneuolence: and the wife her husband, with honour and obedience. So that vnitie and concord, causeth them to be accounted wise, honest, and vertuous, and they must needes be good, seeing they haue loued so long together. But there can be no long a­mitie or friendship, but betweene those that are good, who doe suffer and deuour vp those things, for the which other men leaue and forsake amitie, and breake off charitie. Nei­ther doth there grow of any other thing, so great reuerence and honour, as of the opinion and estimation of another mans goodnesse and wisedome: the which reuerence, is not onely honoured within the doores, but also shineth and extendeth it selfe into the citie; so that hee is taken for an honest man, and accounted to be louing and gentle, seeing that he loueth his wife so constantly, and also he is reputed for a wise man, considering that he can so moderate­ly handle so difficult and hard matters; and he is reckoned worthie to rule a common-wealth, that with such wisdome, discretion, and iudge­ment, doth rule and gouerne his owne house; and that he may easily conserue and keepe his Citizens in peace and concord, that hath so wel established the same in his owne house and familie. And one the other side, none will think or beleeue, that hee is able to be a ruler, or to keep peace & quietnesse in the towne or Citie, who cannot liue peaceably in his owne house, [Page 176] where he is not onely a ruler, but as it we [...] little King, and Lord of all. And in matri [...] ­all debate and discord, the man is more to [...] blamed, then is the woman, because that he be­ing the chiefe Ruler and head, doth not p [...] and remedie her of that vice, the which ing [...] dred that discord, or else patiently beare a [...] suffer the same. For the blame of all disc [...] is commonly laid on him that is chiefe, bec [...] he would not moderate nor stay the thing [...] come to such a strife and discord, or else be­cause he was not able to doe it. In the first, the [...] appeareth manifest malice, in the second imp [...] ­tience and weakenes, the which ought to be [...] from him that is esteemed to be most wo [...] and appointed to rule and gouerne others. A [...] thus hee commeth into hatred, for as much [...] he hath left off to do his dutie and office, wh [...] necessitie required it. That husband that lo [...] not his wife after that he hath enioyed her [...] a season, but doth waxe feeble and cold, (wh [...] is a thing most vsuall and ordinarie with su [...] are kindled with bodily lust and lecherie) [...] very beast, and no man, hauing no reason, [...] drawne to those deeds, through the moti [...] his senses, which, after the heat is a little p [...] will cleane change their opinion.

Also there are other occasions, that sho [...] The causes [...]hy the hus­ [...]and should [...]ue his wife. moue the husband to extend this loue to h [...] wife, in case he be not duller then a stone. A [...] for that his wife hath suffred so great trauell [...] [Page 177] labour, that shee hath borne and brought him forth children, the heires of his name and sub­stance, and the vpholders of his familie: and that she hath forsaken her fathers goods and riches to follow him, & to suffer with him both good and euill: and that she setting her whole mind now vpon him, knoweth no other father, not yet any of all her kin. What one thing shall suffice, if these and others cannot doe it? who so will then obey nature, humanitie and wise­dome, shall euerie day loue his wife more and more. And the better he knoweth her the more he will trust her, and so open and disclose his loue, and shew her greater signes and tokens of loue and beneuolence, manifesting that to be borne and nourished, through the experi­ence of her vertue, and through hope to be con­tinued and kept, that in time to come she may be like her selfe, and striue to ouercome her­selfe with vertue. As the husband ought to loue his wife tenderly, so from her as from a The husband must loue his wiues kins­folkes. fountaine, he must extend his loue also vnto her parents and kinsfolks, to the end that they may well know and perceiue, how greatly their cousin doth aide and helpe them, and that she in like manner may vnderstand, that his bene­uolence and loue to her is such, that it redoun­deth among her friends and parents, & of this he shall receiue no little profit at home. And seeing hee loueth his wiues kinsmen for her sake, how much more ought he then to loue her [Page 178] children, that she in like case may loue [...] he haue any: And thus the one seeing the [...] tuall loue of the other, they shall knit and [...] ple themselues in good and stedfast loue [...] their liues end. The duties which are to [...] performed of the husband and the wife, [...] either pertaining to pietie and godlinesse, [...] else mutuall seuerall duties concerning the p [...] ties themselues.

1. The first common dutie is paye, [...] they pray together by themselues. For a [...] are to pray with others in their families, [...] things which concerne their house-hol [...] there are certaine things, which belongi [...] themselues, are not to be mentioned in th [...] miles, but priuately, as namely, for a god [...] steritie, and that in the birth the child [...] comely, and not monstrous in comming [...] like monsters, which might be a griefe [...] them or an occasion that the wicked [...] speak euill of the Gospel, &c. And furthe [...] are to pray, that they may haue comf [...] them in their well carriage and good [...] our: as likewise for their house-hold, and [...] other affaires, which they cannot so co [...] ously pray for, in their publike families▪ [...] Isaack and Rebecca, besides the praiers in [...] house which they vsed with Abrahams [...] did also pray together priuately: as Gen. [...] it is said, Isaack prayed before his wife: for [...] words signifie, that they might haue child [...]

[Page 179] 2. A second dutie of pietie is, that they admonish one another. As the husband is to admonish the wife, and also to teach her, so the wife is to admonish the husband; and in her place admonishing, bringing sufficient reason as to be heard. For euen as the Master is to counsell the seruant, and likewise to heare the good counsel of his seruant, as Naaman. 2. King. [...]. 13. 14. heard his seruant, which counselled him to wash in Iorden, according to the saying of the Prophet: so in like manner, the husbands dutie is to counsell, and to admonish his wife: yet so, as when he faileth in dutie, he is to heare her good counsell and admonition, either con­cerning heauenly matters, or earthly affaires: she notwithstanding considering her estate & condition vnder him, & in humilitie confessing her selfe to be the weaker vessell. 1. Pet. 3. 7.

Their mutuall and seuerall duties pertaining to themselues, are: First, the holy familiaritie which ought to be betwixt man & wife: wher­by they haue a more familiar vsage one of ano­ther, and do more familiarly behaue themselues [...] a comely sort one to another, then any other parties whatsoeuer: in regard whereof Abime­lech Gen. 26. 8. 9. king of Gerar (after that Isaack had said of Rebecca his wife, she is my sister) seeing Isaack playing & sporting with her familiarly (know­ing that familiaritie which ought to be be­ [...]eene the husband and the wife, and know­ing that Isaack was a godly religious man, and [Page 180] therefore would not vse that kind of b [...] ­our to any other woman, saue to his wife [...] ­cerned thereby, and concluded certainely, [...] she was his wife, howsoeuer hee had de [...] before: Noting, that a woman is not to be [...] ­miliar after that sort with any other man, [...] her husband, and contrary, that the husb [...] ought not to vse this familiaritie with any o [...] woman, which hee doth with his wife. A [...] therefore Pro. 5. 19. we see that the wife, h [...] be to him, as the louing Hind: namely, de [...] full, & one in whom he may delight: that [...] Hart delighteth in the Hind: so the wife sh [...] be a delight vnto her husband: and so i [...] manner, she ought to take delight in hi [...].

2. Againe, there is another mutuall [...] pertaining to themselues: to witte, that [...] coniunction, euen in regard of their bodi [...] an holy procreation of children, in res [...] whereof the Apostle saith, the husband [...] 1. Cor. 7. 4. not power ouer his owne bodie, but the [...] &c. Onely when it is with the wife (as [...] mon to women Ezech. 18. 6.) or that [...] sicke of her disease, hee is not then to h [...] vse of her body, &c.

Such as doe aspire and purpose to en [...] the holy estate of Matrimonie, are to beg [...] Duties com­mon both to the husband and the wife. in prayer and holinesse to God. And h [...] attained to that estate, ought to vse the be [...] of marriage, as an holy ordinance of God, [...] all godlinesse and puritie, for a remedie aga [...] 1. Cor. 7. 2. [Page 181] the weakenesse of the flesh, and not for the prouocation and lust to intemperancie.

True it is, that honestie of marriage groun­ded vpon Gods ordinance, doth couer the shame of incontinencie: yet not so, as that married folkes should defile and pollute that holy estate, by admitting all things, but that they should so vse it, as there might be no ex­cesse in dissolutenesse, neither any intemperan­cie contrarie to the holinesse thereof: so that to abuse it in lasciuious excesse, is fornication.

When God created the woman, he said: It is Gen. 1. 18. [...]t good that man should be alone, I will make him a helpe meete for him. But whatsoeuer is said of the woman, that she should be a helpe to the man, must also be put in practise, and exercised by the husband toward his wife, ac­cording to the doctrine of the Apostle Saint Paul, 1. Cor. 7. whether in auoyding fornica­tion, whether in procuring generation, and the education and bringing vp of children, whe­ther in maintayning a familie, or for the ser­uice of God, and saluation of soules.

Hereby it euidently appeareth, that the du­tie common both to the husband and wife importeth, that the one should ayde and helpe the other.

First, that they may leade their liues in cha­stitie and holinesse. Next, to auoid fornication. So that the dutie of the husband and the wife, consisteth in this, that they liue together in all [Page 182] Chastitie and purenes, and that they take [...] heed, and beware of breaking the bond, [...] infringing, and violating the faith of mar [...] by fornication or adulterie, which is a dete [...] ­ble sinne in the sight both of God and [...] If such as wanting the remedie of marriage [...] committing fornication do incurre an of [...] worthie euerlasting damnation, what [...] those deserue, who hauing a remedie for [...] infirmitie, doe neuerthelesse ouerflow in [...] ­terie? yet is it not inough, onely to ab [...] from this abhomination, vnlesse wee also [...] beare from euery thing, that may see [...] tend thereunto, or to containe any begi [...] apparance, allurement, or occasion of [...] First, because, that by the law, all this [...] bidden, euen in these expresse words: [...] shalt not commit adulterie. For the word [...] trie, Exod. 24. 14. comprehendeth al prouocations, gest [...] speeches: yea, euen vnchast lookes. And th [...] fore saith Iesus Christ, He that looketh [...] other mans wife to lust after her, hath [...] Mat. 5. 28. committed adultrie with her in his heart. [...] that wee preuent all occasions of ieal [...]s [...]e, [...] most dangerous disease, & of great diffic [...] cure. For where either the husband or the [...] is tainted with iealousie, they beleeue [...] word that they heare spoken touching [...] passion, albeit it beare no apparance of [...] And therefore Christian husbands and [...] must so beare themselues, that they inc [...] [Page 183] suspition of euill: but rather they ought to pra­ctise this, as well to auoid occasion of offence, as for feare, lest iealousie should conuert mar­riage into a most miserable & wreched estate.

The care and burthen to maintaine their fa­milie is common to them both: yet so, as pro­perly the husband is to get it, and to bring it in, and the wife to order and dispose it. Howbeit the dutie of the wife, or of the husband, doth not so exempt either of them, but that she also according to her abilitie and power, must help her husband to get it, and he likewise in his dis­cretion, direct her in the dispensation thereof. He that doth not orderly gouerne his house, shall inherit the winde. (saith Salomon) And order consisteth in this, that the husband follow his businesse, traffique, or calling, without any mo­lestation of the wife, who ought not to meddle or controle him therein, but with great discre­tion and gentlenesse, as also the husband is not to deale, but soberly & in great discretion with affaires that are proper to the wife. The man is iealous of his authoritie and reputation, and the woman inclined to respect her selfe to be despised. Wherefore, as the husband cannot well abide that his wife should shew her selfe more skilful and wise in his businesse then him­selfe: so cannot the wife suffer that her husband should despise and account her a foole, by medling with her small household affaires.

As the dutie therefore of the husband and [Page 184] wife, consisteth in looking to that which [...] foresaid, to the end their marriage may be [...] et, and themselues liue together in loue: e [...] an idle and vnthriftie husband, and a pro [...] and slouthfull wife, are two ready wayes to [...] struction. The husband that hath such [...] casteth his labours into a bottomlesse s [...] and the wife that is matched with such a [...] band, draweth a Cart heauie loden through [...] sandie way without a horse.

Such a husband, especially, if idlenesse [...] him to loue and haunt Ale-houses & Ta [...] is cruell to his wife and children: and su [...] wife confoundeth her husband, and bring [...] reproch and pouertie to her whole familie. T [...] remedie for the husband that hath such [...] is patience, with discreet admonition and p [...] er to God: as also the helpe for the wife [...] hath such a husband, is tolleration, gentle e [...] hortation, and cheerefull and louing enter [...] ment of her husband, whereby to induce [...] willingly to keepe home.

They are also to be mutuall helpers, eac [...] ther in matters concerning their own sal [...] and the seruice of God. First, if one of thems [...] saith the Apostle be an vnbeleeuer, the o [...] must labour to draw his partie to the kn [...] ledge of the trueth. Saint Paul exhorting [...] husband and wife, of contrarie religions, not [...] part, but to dwell together, addeth a no [...] reason, saying: What knowest thou, O [...] 1. Cor. 7. 15. [Page 185] whether thou shalt saue thy wife: or thou O wo­man, whether thou shalt saue thy husband? therein declaring that the faithfull person in dutie is to labour and indeuour to winne his partie to the knowledge of the trueth, and so to saue her.

Saint Peter exhorteth wiues to be subiect to their husbands, albeit vnbeleeuers, and such as obey not the word: that so without speech, by their holy and vertuous conuersation, they may winne them.

Secondly, if both be beleeuers, their dutie is, to confirme and strengthen each other in the time of persecution, that they constantly follow Iesus Christ. They are also each to help and comfort other, if either of them happen to fall into any fault or sinne. They ought al­so each to perswade other to charitie, to re­lieue the poore, diligently to frequent Ser­mons, to vse praiers and supplications, and praise & thanksgiuing to the Lord, to comfort each other in the time of afflictions, to be short, either to exhort other; to walke in the feare of God, and in all duties and exercises beseeming the children of God. In this manner did that holy woman Elizeus Hostesse, exhort her hus­band to prepare a chamber, for the Prophet to lodge in. Saint Paul also saith, that women de­sirous to learne, should question with their husbands at home. Whereby he sheweth, that the husband ought to be so instructed, as that he may be readie to instruct his wife at home. [Page 186] And therefore the husband (after the examp [...] of the Bee) should euery where gather euery good instruction, that he might be able to in­part it to his wife, and by hauing communicati­on, acquaint her therewith.

There are other duties, which be common both to the husband and the wife, as among the rest, such as proceed of the vnion and con­iunction of marriage, whereof it is said, They are one flesh: Genes. 2. 24. Math. 19. 5. And of this vnion, proceedeth the mutuall loue be­twixt them. For no man (saith the Apostle) [...] ­teth his owne flesh, but loueth and cherisheth i [...]. But for as much as the foundation of this mu­tuall Ephes. 5. 15. Titus. 2. 5. loue, is the vnitie of marriage, whereby the husband and the wife are made one flesh, the husband as the head, the wife as the bodie [...] followeth, that this loue must be stedfast, n [...] variable, and that the vnion of marriage con­tinue notwithstanding, whatsoeuer befall ei­ther the husband or the wife. Notwithstan­ding whatsoeuer complexions, (we say) natu [...] and infirmities may appeare, whatsoeuer [...] ­nesse, losse of goods, iniuries, griefes or o [...] inconueniences that may arise, yet so long [...] the foundation of loue, that is the vnion of mar­riage doth continue, so long must loue and af­fection remaine. God commandeth vs, to l [...] our neighbours as our selues, because they be [...] Math. 5. 44. our flesh. Albeit therefore, that he contemne, hate, offend, or wrong vs: albeit hee be o [...] [Page 187] enemie, and in respect of himselfe, deserueth not that we should loue him, yet because hee is of our flesh, the foundation of loue remaineth, we must loue him. How much rather ought they to put this in practise, who by the bond of marriage, are made one flesh? The rather, be­cause the vnion betweene man and wife, is without comparison more straite and bindeth them each to loue other much more, then the coniunction, whereby man is vnited vnto his neighbour.

But this is the mischiefe, that in many, their loue is not grounded vpon the vnion of mar­riage but vpon beautie, riches, and other car­nall and worldly considerations, subiect to change, alteration and losse.

This corruption that respecteth beautie, is olde, and noted to be among the causes of the flood. The sonnes of God (saith Moses) see­ing Gen. 6. 2. the daughters of men were faire, lusted af­ter them, and tooke them in marriage. But in­deed, it is money that maketh loue, and riches ingender affection, witnesse the experience of our daies. Yet such loue, resembleth onely a fire of straw, which is but a blaze, and is soone out, vnlesse it be continued with great wood, or other like substance. Loue growing of beauty, riches, lust, or any other like slight, vncertaine, and fraile grounds, is soone lost and vanished, vnlesse it be maintained with the considerati­on of this vnion, of two in one flesh, and the [Page 188] vertues thereto adioyned: and therefore must euerie man thinke vpon this vnion in marriage▪ that he may enioy, nourish, and continue the loue that therof proceedeth, the rather because such loue is the nurse of concord, that maketh marriage happie, as contrariwise, the want of this loue, is the fountaine of strife, quarrelling, debate, and other like afflictions, that conuert the paradise of marriage into a hell. For dissen­tion betweene man and wife, is the trouble and ouerthrow of the house-hold.

They that will auoide such strife, must there­fore loue each other: and especially, they must haue care hereof, when they are first married. For as a vessell made of two peeces, & glewed togither, may at the first be easily broken, but in time groweth strong: so is it also with two persons that are glewed or ioyned together by the bond of marriage.

This loue, the mother of peace, will ingen­der a care and dutie, each to support other, and so to practise the same, which Saint Paul re­quireth in all beleeuers: that is, To be gentle [...] to another, friendly, and each to forgiue other, [...] as God hath forgiuen vs through Christ. Let the husband think, that he hath maried a daughter of Adam, and all her infirmities: and likewise let the woman thinke, that she hath not maried an Angell, but a child of Adam, with his cor­ruption. And so let them both resolue to beare that, that cannot be soone amend. Let not the [Page 189] bodie complaine of the head, albeit it haue but one eye, neither the head of the body, albeit it be crooked or mishapen. Such defaults doe neuer break vnion and loue betweene the head and the bodie: neither must the infirmities of the husband or the wife, infringe the loue that proceedeth of the vnion and coniunction of mariage. If the husband be giuen to brawling, or the wife to chiding, let them both beware of giuing any occasion.

The Bell hath a loud sound, and therefore he that will not heare it must beware how he pul­leth the rope and shake it: so if the one will be­gin to chide without a cause, let the other be ei­ther deafe and so not heare it, or dumbe, and so make no answere. So that where the hus­band is deafe, and the wife blinde, marriage is quiet and free from dissention. Whereby is meant, that the wife must winke at many infirmities of her husband, as if shee saw them not, and the husband put vp many shrewde speeches of his wife, as if hee heard them not. Neither can it be any reproach to the husband and wife, so stedfastly vnited, to practise this dutie, considering that Dauid protesteth, that he vsed the like patience and discretion among his enimies: They that seeke after my life lay snares, and they that goe about to doe me euill, Psal. 38. 12. talke wicked things, and imagine deceit continu­ally: But I as a deafe man, heard not: and am as a dumbe man which openeth not his mouth. Thus [Page 190] I am as a man that heareth not, and in wh [...] mouth are no reproofes.

This vnion betweene man and wife do [...] also engender that dutie which the holy Gho [...] noteth, saying: For this cause shall a man le [...] his father and mother, and cleaue to his wife. And Math. 19. 5. Ephes. 5. 31. also the wife in the like respect is bound to the like dutie toward her husband. Not that mar­riage exempteth any from their due hon [...] and obedience to parents, but to declare that the vnion betweene man and wife, is greater, then betweene the children and the parents And indeede, the true loue of the husband to the wife, and of the wife to the husband, s [...] ­mounteth all loue of children to their parents.

The husband and the wife, haue their secret counsels and communication of matters con­cerning their profit and commoditie. The w [...] is more obedient to her husband, and the h [...] ­band more desirous to please his wife, the [...] their parents: yea, and at length it falleth o [...], that they depart from their parents, to kee [...] house by themselues. And this plainely app [...] ­red in Lea and Rachel, being sisters, and [...] Gen. 31. 4. 5. &c. wiues of Iacob. For Iacob grieued at the wrong offered him by their father Laban, boldly made his moane to them.

Whereupon they also complaining of the [...] father, agreed with Iacob, and consented [...] gether, to leaue their father, and to follow the [...] husband Iacob. Herein likewise consisteth an­other [Page 191] dutie of the husband to the wife, and of the wife to the husband: namely, that they shew no greater secrecie or communication of their household affaires to their parents, then mutu­ally each to other: and this rule is especially to be put in practise, when there groweth any dis­content betweene themselues. For if the hus­band shal complaine to his parents of his wife, or the wife of her husband, such dealing might breed a most dangerous iealoufie, and conse­quently perhaps irreconciliable dissention and strife. But if it should grow to any complaint it were requisite, so discreetly to prosecute the matter, as that the wife should come to her hus­bands parents, & the husband to the wifes pa­rents. So would all cause of iealousie cease, and the complaint procure most assured remedie.

This loue and agreement in marriage pro­duceth yet another dutie, common both to the husband and the wife. And that is, that they neuer seeke, neither once thinke of diuorce. And to that end, let them remember what is written: That which God hath ioyned together, let no man put a sunder. Likewise, that nothing Mat. 19. 6. but Adulterie, may separate those that are vni­ted by marriage.

All other agreements and contracts, made by mutuall consent, may be broken and dissol­ued, by the like consent of both parties: but in the contract of marriage, Almightie God commeth in as a witnesse: yea, he receiueth the [Page 192] promise of both parties, as ioyning them i [...] that estate.

And this doth Salomon note, where he obiecteth Pro. 2. 17. to the Harlot, that shee hath forgotten the couenant or alliance of her God. But Ma­lachie speaketh more plainely, and giueth a rea­son, why God punished such husbands as lea­uing their lawfull wiues tooke others: Because Mala. 2. 14. (saith he) the Lord hath beene witnesse betweene thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom th [...] hast transgressed, yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy couenant. The promise therefore to God cannot be broken, but onely by his au­thoritie.

In the daies of Moses, husbands were easily and soone intreated to forsake their wiues, by giuing them a Bill of diuorce: yet so farre was this course from being lawfull, that con­trariwise Iesus Christ saith, that it was tolera­ted Math. 19. 8. onely in respect of the hardnesse of hus­bands hearts, who otherwise would haue vexed their wiues, and intreated them cruelly.

And this libell containing the cause of d [...] ­uorce, and putting away of the woman, did i [...] ­stifie her, and condemne the man. For seeing it was neuer giuen in case of adulterie, (which was punished with death) all other causes alled­ged in the libell, tended to iustifie the wom [...] Leuit. 20. 10. Iohn. 8. 5. and declare that she was wrongfully diuorced, and so condemned the husband, as one th [...] contraried the first institution of marriage; [Page 195] whereto, Iesus Christ condemning this corrup­tion, doth returne them, saying, It was not so from the beginning: and therefore, whosoeuer Mat. 19. 8. shall put away his wife, except it be for whoredome, and marrieth another, committeth adulterie: and whosoeuer marrieth her which is deuorced doth commit adulterie with her. So straight is the bond of marriage.

Hereof it followeth, that notwithstanding, whatsoeuer difficulties that may rise betweene the husband and the wife, whether it be long, tedious, and incurable sicknesse of either par­tie: whether naturall and contrarie humours that breede debate, wrangling, or strife, about household affaires: whether it be any vice, as if the husband be a drunkard, or the wife a slouthfull, idle, or vnthriftie huswife: whether either partie forsake the truth, and profession of religion, and doe fall to idolatrie or heresie: yet still the bond of marriage remaineth sted­fast, and not to be dissolued. Neither may they be separated, euen by their owne mutuall con­sent. For as the holy Ghost hath pronounced: That which God hath ioyned together, let no Mat. 19. 6. 1. Cor. 7. 12. man put asunder. And therefore S. Paul saith: If any brother hath a wife that beleeueth not, if she be content to dwell with him, let him not for­sake her: and the woman, which hath a husband that beleeueth not, if hee can be content to dwell with her, let her not forsake him. Also because some did suppose, that the vnbeleefe, in any of [Page 196] the parties, might breed some pollution in their marriage, and make it prophane and vnch [...] ­an, he answereth no.

His reason is, For the vnbeleeuing husband, [...] sanctified by his beleeuing wife: and the vnbelee­uing wife, by her beleeuing husband. And this he proueth by affirming, that the children is [...] ­ing of such a marriage be holy: that is to say partakers of the couenant of God, and conse­quently accepted into the fellowship of the Church. Onely he addeth this exception: If the vnbeleeuing man depart and forsake the be [...] ­uing wife, shee is not subiect to follow him. A [...] yet must this be vnderstood where such de­parture ariseth either vpon hatred that he bea­reth to the true religion that his wife professeth, or vpon a desire to vse his polluted & f [...] religion. For therein cannot his wife follow hi [...] without danger of defiling and depriuing [...] selfe of the profession of the truth, togethe [...] with the food of her soule.

Likewise, where Saint Paul speaking of [...] husband and wife, both beleeuers, saith: If [...] 1. Cor. 7. 11. woman depart from her husband, let her re [...] vnmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: [...] therein meaneth not that it shall be lawfull [...] the woman, because shee cannot beare [...] trouble-some nature of her husband, or to [...] uoid strife and debate, to depart and liue as [...] widdowe, but onely hee sheweth that wh [...] the husband vpon such like occasion, s [...] [Page 197] put away or cast off his wife, yet is not shee at her libertie to marrie another, but must remaine vnmarried, and labour to be reconci­led: And therefore those women which vp­on the hard dealing, or troublesome disposi­tions of their husbands doe forsake them are greatly to be reproued, as thereby giuing oc­casion of great mischiefe and trouble, as also are those husbands, who vpon like occasion doe forsake their wiues. For seeing nothing may make diuorce but Adulterie, euery pur­pose and determination to part vpon any o­ther occasion or reason is restrained by Gods ordinance, and the law of marriage. And for as much, as it is not lawfull for vs to continue in such separation, the whole course of our liues: neither is it lawfull so to abide at all, either so much as enter thereinto: if therefore, vpon such occasion the husband forsake his wife, or the wife her husband, rather then to con­tinue the mischiefe begunne, let them returne togither againe, and thinke, that the shortest follies doe least hurt. Obiection.

If they alleadge their intreatie, in their opi­nion, intollerable, and their nature so contra­rie, that they cannot liue without strife and de­bate: also, that being asunder, and quiet in conscience, free from trouble, they may the better apply themselues, and employ their Answere. time in prayer: the answere is, that such infir­mities must not dissolue, or breake the bond [Page 198] of marriage, and their duties to liue together: but let them thinke that GOD hath called them to the exercise of patience, which vp [...] heartie prayer hee will graunt to them: l [...] them labour, each to beare with other, that they may liue in peace, and continually pray to GOD to giue them grace so to do: let them remember, that the diuell transfor­meth himselfe into an Angell of light, whe [...] by propounding a dutie to liue in quiet, and consequently a meane to pray vnto GOD for the compassing thereof, hee induce [...] them to gain-say Gods prohibition, and a [...] to seperate that which God hath ioyned to­gether. For as the coniunction commeth of God, so the separation and diuorce proceedeth from the diuell.

If they reply, that by liuing a sunder, so th [...] they marrie not againe, they breake not t [...] bond of marriage, let them remember, th [...] marriage being ordained for a remedie aga [...] fornication, for the generation and bringing [...] of children, and also for a help each to o [...] in mutuall societie, and inseparable conuersation of life, yet doth there appeare no token [...] effect of marriage in those that liue a sund [...] albeit they marrie not againe.

So that the benefite of marriage co [...] steth not onely in the procreation of childre [...] but also in the naturall societie of the two [...] uers sexes. Otherwise it could not be said, th [...] [Page 199] therewere any marriage betweene two old folkes.

This vnion of marriage, yet teacheth vs a­nother dutie, common both to the man and to the wife, which is, that their goods be common betweene them. That common-wealth may in some sort be said to be happie, where they haue no vse of these words: Mine, and thine: but in marriage especially they ought not to be heard. If the wife haue brought most, goods in marriage, the marriage once consummate and made, her part is gone, and they are gone, and they are made common: as also are the debts, whether hers, or her husbands. And therefore can neither of them say: this is mine, but this is ours. When a woman hath brought great goods, yet may shee not say, I will doe with mine owne what I list: for she her selfe, is not her owne, but her husbands.

The husband, as the head and chiefe guide of the familie, must haue the custodie and chiefe gouernment of the goods in the house: yet may he discharge himselfe of the whole, or of part, as himselfe shall thinke meet and con­uenient.

Yet let him remember, that hee intreat her not as a seruant, by giuing her money as it were in mistrust, or with condition to returne him a particular account: for the husbands mistrust doth many times prouoke the woman, and the wiues vaine expence breedeth mistrust in [Page 200] the husband. But the faithfull and discreet em­ployment, and good vsage of the wife, and her husbands confidence in her, will procure th [...] the goods be common to both, so each a [...] shall vndertake the custodie & employment of the same. Hereunto, for a conclusion of th [...] point, wee will yet adde two duties, comm [...] both to the husband, and the wife.

The first, that they daily pray to God [...] giue them grace to liue together in peace and loue, and that each may be a help to other saluation. Let all such as desire to enioy suc [...] felicitie, vnderstand, that they must dayly p [...] to GOD for the obtaining thereof, A [...] let those that liue in strife and debate exa [...] themselues, whether they haue no cause to i [...] pute their miserable estate, to their neglect [...] this dutie.

The second, consisteth in the practise of [...] same: which, Saint Paul teacheth, saying: [...] those that be married, be as if they were not [...] ried. 1. Cor. 7. 29. But how? by so enioying the com [...] ditie and contentation of marriage, that [...] benefit of their coniunction, breede [...] diuorce betweene God and them: like [...] that thereby they be not hindered or [...] slacke in any dutie toward God and the [...] neighbours: as also that no affliction depe [...] ding or proceeding of marriage withd [...] them, or force them to resolue any thing c [...] trarie to the vnion of marriage, and the [Page 201] Christian profession that they be the children of God.

The particular duties of the husband toward the wife, are: first, to protect her, to haue re­gard and care ouer her, &c. Ruth. 3. 9. Se­condly, that hee vnfaynedly loue her, out of which fountaine springeth this dutie, that hee must beare with her infirmities, and not by and by, to enter into bitternesse and wrath: Colos. 3. 16. To the same end Saint Peter ex­horting 1. Pet. 3. 7. husbands to behaue themselues dis­creetly, and with knowledge and wisedome toward their wiues, hee requireth of them two things.

First, that they neuer say nor doe any thing, that may iustly offend their wiues; as some there be, who being prodigall, great spenders, or idle and slacke in their businesse▪ doe cause their wiues and children to languish in pouertie: others, who haunting Tauernes, Ale-houses, and Gaming, doe consume and waste that which should maintaine their famili­lie: others, who comming home drunke, doe beat and vexe their wiues, and at it were, driue them into despaire: others, who by vile and bit­terspeeches, by threatnings, and other vnchri­stian actions, vnworthy a husband, do prouoke their wiues, and so stirre vp such strife and de­bate, as doe conuert the comfort of marriage into an hell. Seeing therefore, that the husband is head, hee ought in such wisedome, reason, [Page 202] and discretion to beare himselfe, that he giue his wife no iust occasion of offence or prouo­cation: yea, he must remember that if the head be drunke, the whole bodie is in danger of weake gouernment, euen of lying in the mi [...]e.

Secondly, that albeit the wife should mini­ster iust cause of griefe and displeasure, yet that the husband should not thereof take occa­sion against his wiues infirmities, or enter into bitternesse, tauntes, or disquietnesse: but dis­creetely, and patiently beare with her, that so they may quietly, and louingly liue toge­ther.

The hurt or weakenesse of any one mem­ber of the bodie prouoketh not the head to wrath or bitternesse: but rather to compassion, and an inclination to help it. And indeede, whereas God hauing created woman the weaker vessell, as S. Peter noteth, & did so ioyne her to man, it was not to the end, that hee st [...] uing with so fraile a vessell should bruise [...] breake it, but that by gentle and discreet in [...] ting he should quietly enioy the helpe th [...] God hath giuen him.

Let him therefore, after the counsell of S [...] Peter, so respect her, as one, who albeit s [...] be weake, is neuerthelesse a profitable vesse [...] for him. Moreouer, let him loue and honour 1. Pet. 3. 7. Gen. 2. 18. her, as one, whom notwithstanding the frail [...] of her sexe, God hath so honoured, and Ie [...] Christ so loued, that being together with m [...] [Page 203] redeemed with his blood, she is, together with her husband, co-heire of life euerlasting.

A chrystall Glasse, is a precious and profita­ble vessell, yet brittle: so is the married woman. For albeit she be brittle, yet is she profitable to her husband, and precious in the sight of God, as child of God, and member of Christ. As therefore a man doth more carefully take heed of breaking such a glasse, then some earthen or [...]nne vessell, the one being more base, and the other more strong: so likewise should the hus­band haue such regard of the frailetie of his wife, that he may beare with her, and intreate her with gentlenesse and discretion, that he may [...]se her, as a precious and profitable vessell, to his comfort and ioy. And in as much as prai­er is an excellent seruice, that God requireth of vs, and the readie meanes to purchase his bles­sings, let the husband discreetly beare with his wife, least otherwise through their strife and contention, their praiers (as Saint Peter saith) beletted and interrupted. Pet. 3. 7.

Yet must wee not say, but the husband both may and ought to tell his wife of her in­firmities, that shee may amend. But here wee are to enter into consideration of sundrie points.

First, he is especially to reprooue her offen­ces against God: As when Rachell said vnto lacob: Giue me children or else I die: he repro­ted Gen. 30. 1. her of importunitie, saying: Am I in Gods [Page 204] steed, who hath withholden from thee the fr [...] of they wombe? Also when Iobs wife said to her husband: Doest thou abide in thy integritie? C [...] God and die: he wisely reproued such a wicked speech, saying: Thou speakest as an vnwise [...] man, What? shall we receiue good at the hand if God, and not receiue euill?

Secondly, that it be with gentlenesse and testimony of good will: as Elkanah dealt with his wife Hanna, when she mourned because she 1. Saem. 1. had no children. And indeed it is meete, that the husband should reproue his wife louingly, rather by perswasion, then by force. For [...] in a great stormie wiude, a man lappeth [...] cloake about him, and holdeth it fast for [...] of loosing it, but when the wind is downe a [...] the weather calme hee letteth it hang easily: so, when husbands will (as it were) perf [...] wrest away their wiues infirmities, many [...]f them will obstinately resist, yet contrari [...], by sweet wordes and louing exhorta [...] they might be wonne voluntarily to fors [...] them.

Thirdly, the husband must seeke dilige [...] ­ly to remoue the occasion and stone when at his wife stumbleth, and taketh occasion griefe. So when Sarah was moued aga [...] Abraham, because of Agar, and obiecte [...] Gen. 16. vnto him, albeit wrongfully, that hee [...] the cause that shee contemned her: bearing with his wife, hee remoued the cause of the [Page 205] contention, in suffering her to turne Agar out of doores.

He must also take heed, that he himselfe be not tainted with the same vice, which hee re­proueth in his wife, least shee stop his mouth with the reproach of the same fault: but rather by giuing her example by the contrarie vertue, let her be induced and led to follow him. In reprouing the wife, the husband must alwaies vse such discretion that shee be not brought into contempt: and therefore it should neuer be done in the presence of moe then them­selues. For as it is meere folly for a husband to praise and commend his wife in companie: so is it as dangerous to checke and reproue her before witnesse. For indeede thereof it com­meth, that women, not being able to beare that disgrace, will reply, and so prouoke strife, and dissention in open presence, which will re­dound to great reproach and offence. And ther­fore, as the husband must not flatter his wife, so hee must not reproue her before strangers. A wise husband, and one that seeketh to liue in quiet with his wife, must obserue these three rules: Often to admonish▪ Seldome to reproue: And neuer to smite her.

Let the husband also remember, that the in­firmities of his wife, must be either taken a­way, or borne withall. So that he that can take them quite away, maketh his wife farre more commodious and fit for his purpose: and hee [Page 206] that can beare with them, maketh himselfe bet­ter, and more vertuous.

The husband is also to vnderstand, that as God created the woman, not the head, and so equall in authoritie with her husband: so also he created her not of Adams foote, that shee should be troden downe and despised; but hee tooke her out of the rib, that she might walk [...] ioyntly with him, vnder the conduct and go­uernment of her head.

And in that respect, the husband is no [...] command his wife, in manner, as the Mas [...] his seruant, but as the soule doth the bodie, a [...] being conioyned in like affection & good wi [...] For as the soule in gouerning the body, tendeth to the benefit and commoditie of the same: s [...] ought the dominion and commandement of the husband ouer his wife, to tend to reioyc [...] and content her.

To conclude: As God hath testified his fe­gular goodnesse vnto man, in creating him as helper to assist him: so let him consider, in [...] many sorts she is to him a helper, to passe o [...] this life in blessednesse. And let this daily see­king of such a benefit receiued at the hands of God, induce and stirre him vp to render thanks, and to dispose himselfe to vse it well, to his owne comfort and saluation: and not to abuse it, to the destruction both of himselfe and [...] wife.

But if hee chaunce (as many doe) vpon [Page 207] troubles, and afflictions in marriage, let him remember, that the same doth proceed, not properly from marriage, but from the corrup­tions of the parties married: and for his part, let him studie to amend his infirmities and faults, by amendment of life, and withall, pray to God to grant the like grace vnto his wife; to the end that the more they recouer the I­mage of God, the more feeling they may haue of the felicitie of marriage, which Adam and Eue had enioyed, had they continued, as they were created, in the Image of God. And the particular duties of the wife to the husband, are principally these:

• First, that she be a helper vnto him.
• Secondly, that she be obedient vnto him, &c.

These speciall duties are partly touched be­fore, and partly afterwards.

As loue matrimoniall is greatly alowed of God, and much commended of all good men, as an ordinate, holy, and godly loue: so con­tratiwise hatred, dissention, strife, debate, vnqui­etnesse and frowardnes in marriage, highly dis­pleaseth God, and much grieueth all good and godly men.

And therefore the diuell, the enemie of all vnitie, concord and agreement, laboureth by all meanes he can (especiall at the first comming of the married folkes to dwell together) to sow dissention, and discord, and to cause them not to agree, but to dislike one of the other; [Page 208] against whom they must diligently watch, by feruent & earnest praier to God, that the d [...]ell preuaile not against them, by such too ea [...] disagreement. For as two boords, if at the fir [...] they be not well coupled and ioyned together are neuer fastned right afterward, but if the first coupling and ioyning together be good, then can there afterward no violence driue the boords asunder, yea the whole boord doth soo­ner breake then the glewing of them together, euen so the husband and wife must be v [...] carefull and diligent, that their first cohabi [...] tion and dwelling together be louing, delect­ble, and friendly, and not separated through [...] spightfull contention or discord, so shall the The best po­licie in marri­age, is to begin well. whole estate of their mariage be more comfortable, and prosper the better as long as they shall liue.

And though there happen to arise [...] sparke of discord betwixt them, yet let th [...] beware, that at the last there be not too much displeasure, disdaine, and inconuenience kind­led thereby. For if at their first dwelling toge­ther, there shall fall out such vntowardnesse, and vncomely discord, then will it now a [...] then be breaking out. Euen as it fareth wi [...] great wounds, and broken legges or armes, which seldome are so throughly healed b [...] somtimes they haue paine at the change of the weather: so likewise, if married folkes beha [...] themselues thus vntowardly and vnhonestlie [Page 209] the one towards the other at the first, and if iars and discord be once begun between them, the old canker of hatred will breede againe, though it be scaled afterward. Let the one therefore learne betime to be acquainted with the nature and conditions of the other, and to apply them­selues according to the same, in as much as they must needs dwell together, one to enioy ano­ther, and the one to liue and die with the o­ther, and so stedfastly and vnfainedly to loue one the other that neither of them haue any thing so deare, which they cannot be content to giue and bestow one vpon the other: yea, e­ven their owne life, if need require.

And therefore husbands and wiues must e­uen at the beginning of their marriage giue their diligence, that al iniuries and offences may be auoided, for tender and soft loue is soone dis­solued and broken.

So that this new loue and coniunction of the minde, must be nourished with benigne, sweer, and gentle conuersation, vntill it be so in­creased and fastned, that no great storme be able to dissolue or breake it. And all suspi­tion must be at all times, but especially at the beginning of matrimonie, eschewed and shun­ned, lest they should first begin to hate, or euer they begin to loue: yea, and they must beware they do not faine any suspition, nor conceiue it of any light occasions and coniectures; for vnto such they in no wise must giue eare, although [Page 210] there were some shew and great apparance of likelihood.

And this will be a good meanes to effect [...] worke this: namely, if they accustome the [...] ­selues to speake kindly, and cheerefully [...] to the other. For as the ancient counsell [...] of king Salomon gaue wise aduise and counsel 1. King. 12. 7. 8. &c. vnto Rehoboam king of Israel, to the end that hee might win the loue and good liking of the people: Speake kindly vnto them (said [...]y) and they will serue thee for euer after; which c [...] ­sell not being followed, great inconueni [...] and mischiefe after befell vnto him. Eue [...] likewise, if the husband be desirous to proc [...] the loue of his wife, and to win her to God; [...] if the wife be desirous, and would also proc [...] the loue of her husband, and winne him [...] God, then they must draw on one anothe [...] with sweet and gentle words of loue, speak [...] kindly one to another: because gentle w [...] pacifie anger, as water quencheth fire. B [...] Iudg. 19. 3. Prou. 15. 1. they shall vse taunts, or words of reproach [...] despight one against another, much hurt [...] may ensue thereof: for a little leauen s [...] the whole lumpe. And therefore let them vse [...] Gal. 5. 9. giue one to the other their dutifull names [...] titles, and to eschew & shun the contrarie fo [...] example, like as the spightfull Iewes, which [...] ted the Lord Iesus, would not vouchsafe to gi [...] him his name when they talked of him, or wi [...] him, but to shew their vtter dislike of him the [...] [Page 211] [...]sed to say: Is this he? or, art thou he that wilt [...]e such a thing? Is not this hee? &c. Againe, Whither will hee goe that wee shall not find him? Iohn. 7. 11. 15. 35. they would not say, Is not this Iesus Christ? or the Sonne of God? but they vsed a most de­ [...]pightfull kind of speaking, which did bewray abundance of malice that was hidden in their hearts: Euen so it sometimes falleth out betwixt the husband & the wife, betwixt the father and the sonne, betwixt the master and the seruant, &c. that they could speake dutifully one to an­other, but contempt and disdaine, anger and malice will not suffer the one to affoord vnto the other their due names and titles, lest they should be put in minde of those duties, which those names require. Whereout Sathan suck­eth no small aduantage: whereas many times [...]e very name of husband, or wife, father or [...]nne, master or seruant, &c. doth greatly help to perswade the minde, and to winne the affe­ction: yea, the very mentioning of these names [...]oth often times leaue a print of dutie behinde [...] the conscience.

Husbands must not forget this point name­ [...], that it is not sufficient for them to declare, [...]d outwardly make a shew of a good life, in [...]ords and precepts onely, but also in life and deede: so that two things are very necessarie for them to rule withall: to wit, wisedome, and example, and that they themselues fulfill the [...]ing that they command to be done. The life [Page 212] and outward conuersation of a man, whe [...] it be good or euill, doth not onely pers [...]ade [...] but also constraine and inforce. We do see how [...] mighty and auaileable this or the like exhor [...] tion of a Captaine is in the time of warre [...] battell: Oh my souldiers, do that yee shall s [...] me doe: the which contempt of death in [...] Captaine, doth so creepe through the wh [...] host, that there is not one, be he neuer so fee [...] and weake hearted, that doth esteeme hi [...], for the which he perceiueth that his Cap [...]e careth so little. Thus did Christ with his Apostles and Martyrs, draw the world vnto [...] Christian faith: Leuiticus 11. 44. and 19. 2. [...] 20. 7. & 21. 8. Iohn 13. 15. Phil. 3. 17. 1. T [...] 1. 16. 2. Thess. 3. 9. For as they liued, so t [...] spake, and as they spake, so they liued. The [...] fore if the husband would haue his wife to [...] temperate, quiet, chast, painefull in her ca [...] religious, &c. then he must be carefull that [...] be not distempered, vnquiet, no whore [...] ­ger, not carelesse in his calling, nor irre [...] ­ous, &c. So that if hee command any thing [...] be done, he must looke that he deny not to [...] the same himselfe, and so shall his wife and [...] milie obay the same, and be the more re [...] and willinger to doe it, being both honest a [...] lawfull to be done.

The very name of a wife, is like the Ang [...] which stayed Abrahams hand, when the str [...] Gen. 22. 11^o was comming. If Dauid because hee co [...] [Page 213] not expresse the commoditie and comfort of vnitie, and brotherly loue, was faine to say: Oh how good and ioyfull a thing it is, for brethren to Psal. 133. 1. dwell together in vnitie? then let husbands weigh and consider, how harsh and bitter a thing it is for them and their wiues to dwell to­gether in enmitie and strife. For the first yeere after marriage, God would not haue the hus­band go to warre with his enimies, to the end that he and his wife might learne to know one Deut. 24. 5. anothers conditions and qualities, and so after­wards liue in godly peace, and not warre one with another: and therefore God gaue a law and appointed, that the new married husband that yeere should stay at home and settle his loue, that he might not war and iarre after: for the God of peace dwelleth not in the house of war, As a kingdome cannot stand if it be deui­ded: so a house cannot stand if it be deuided: for Mat. 12. 25. strife is like fire, which leaues nothing but dust, smoake, and ashes, behind it. Wee reade in the scriptures of masters that strooke their seruants, but neuer of any that strook his wife, but rebu­ked her. Lot was drunke when hee lay with his daughters in stead of a wife: and so is he which Gen. 19. 33. striketh his wife in stead of his seruants. The law sheweth how a bondman should be cor­rected: the wife is like a Iudge, which is ioy­ [...]ed in commission with her husband to correct [...]her. Wilt thou strike one in his owne house? [...] more shouldst thou strike thy wife in her [Page 214] house. She is come to thee as to a Sanctuarie, to defend her from hurt: and canst thou hurt her thy selfe? Therefore Abraham said to Lot, A [...] we not brethren? that is, may brethren iarre? but Gen. 13. 8. they may say, are wee not one? can one chide with himselfe? can one fight with himselfe? He is a bad Oste that welcomes his guest with stripes. Doth a King trample on his Crowne? Salomon calleth the wife, The crowne of her h [...] band: therefore he which woundeth her, wo [...] deth Prou. 12. 4. his owne honour. She is a free Citizen i [...] thine house, and hath taken the peace of thee the first day of her marriage, to hold thy hand till she release thee againe. Adam saith of his spouse, This is flesh of my flesh: But no man (sai [...] Paul) euer hated his owne flesh. So then, if a [...] aske whether he may strike his wife? God sai [...] Gen. 2. 23. Ephes. 5. 19. nay: thou mayst not hate thy wife: for no [...] hateth his owne flesh: shewing, that he sho [...] not come neere blowes, but thinke his w [...] too much.

So me husbands are wont to say, that they will rule their wiues, whatsoeuer they be, [...] howsoeuer they came by them, and that it is [...] the hand and power of the husband, what, and of what qualities and conditions shee shall be True it is, that a great part of this doth rest a [...] lie in the husband, so that he vnderstand as [...] ought to doe, that marriage is the supreme a [...] most excellent part of all amitie and friend­ship: and that it farre differeth from tyrann [...] [Page 215] the which doth compel men to obay. Truely it may force the bodie, but not the will, in the which all loue and amitie doth consist and stand: the which, if it be drawne and forced doth resist and bow like a palme tree to the contrarie part. And the husband may assure himselfe that there cannot be any quiet marri­age or vnitie, where hee and his wife doe not agree in will and minde: the which two, are the beginning and seat of all amitie and friend­ship. And such husbands as doe bragge, and thinke themselues able to rule, and ouer-rule their wiues: by that time they haue proceeded and gone a little further, they shall well feele and perceiue themselues to be beguiled, end finde that thing to be most hard and intricate, the which, to be done, they esteemed most light and easie.

Some husbands there be, that through euill and rough handling, and in threatning of their wiues, haue and vse them not as wiues, but as their seruants. And yet surely they are but ve­ry fooles, that iudge and thinke matrimonie to be a dominion. For such as would be feared, doe afterwards pitiously lament and com­plaine, that they can find no loue in their wiues, whose loue and amitie through their owne cru­eltie and hard dealing, they haue turned into hatred. And whereas at the beginning, they gloryed and craked thus cruelly that they were their wiues masters; they haue now purchased [Page 216] vnto themselues a most miserable and lamentable life in time to come: all loue and plea­sure being now cast aside, and compassed with feare and suspition, hatred and sorrow. Surely, if a husband (as nature, reason, and the holy Scripture doe witnesse) be the head ouer his wife, and God their father: there ought, to be betweene them such societie and fellowship, yea, and greater then is betweene the father and his sonne, and not such as is betweene the ma­ster and the seruant. And amongst many rea­sons that may be vsed to perswade the hus­band and wife to liue together louingly, quiet­ly, and christianly, this is not the least: name­ly, that neither of them is certaine how long they shall liue together, and then the parte that ouerliueth & purposeth to marrie againe, hauing beene churlish, froward, &c. With his former wife; or shee with her first husband, their so hard dealing one with the other before being knowne, will (no doubt be an occasion) that they shall not speed and match so well as otherwise they might, if they had behaued themselues peaceably, and dutifully in their first marriage.

VVhat the dutie of a Wife is towards her Husband.

THis dutie is comprehended in these three points:

First, that shee reuerence her husband.

Secondly, that shee submit her selfe and be obedient vnto him.

And lastly, that shee doe not weare gorge­ous apparell, beyond her degree and place, but that her attire be comely and sober according [...] her calling.

The first point is prooued by the Apostles, Peter and Paul; who set forth the wiues duties 1. Pet. 3. 1. Ephes. 5. 22. Col. 3. 18. 1. Cor. 7. 3. [...] their husbands, commanding them to be obedient vnto them although they be prophane and irreligious; yea that they ought to doe it so much the more, that by their honest life and conuersation they might win them to the obe­dience of the Lord.

Now for so much as the Apostle would [...]aue Christian wiues that are matched with vn­ [...]dly husbands, and such as are not yet good [Page 218] Christians, to reuerence and obay them: [...] more they should shew themselues thankful to God, and willingly and dutifully performe [...] obedience and subiection when they are [...] ­pled in marriage with godly, wise, discreet, le [...] ­ned, gentle, louing, quiet, patient, honest, a [...] thriftie husbands. And therefore they ought euermore Wiues must be seruiceable and obedient vnto their hus­bands, & stand in a reuerend awe of them. Ephes. 5. 24. to reuerence them, and to endeu [...] with true obedience and loue to serue the [...] to be loth in any wise to offend them, yea, [...] ther to be carefull and diligent to please th [...] that their soule may blesse them. And if [...] ­ny time it shall happen, that the wife shall [...] ger or displease her husband, by doing or sp [...] king any thing that shall grieue him, she c [...] neuer to rest vntill she hath pacified him, [...] gotten his fauour againe. And if he shall ch [...] to blame her without a cause, and for [...] which she could not helpe or remedie (wh [...] thing sometimes happeneth euen of the [...] men) yet she must beare it patiently, and [...] him no vncomely or vnkinde wordes for [...] but euer more looke vpon him with a lo [...] and cheerefull countenance, and so rather [...] her take the fault vpon her then seeme to [...] displeased.

Let her be alway merry and cheerfull i [...] Cheerefull in countenance. company, but yet not with too much lightnes [...] She must beware in any wise of swelling, p [...] ting, lowring, or frowning: for that is a to [...] of a cruell, and vnlouing heart, except it be [...] [Page 219] respect of sinne, or in time of sicknesse. She may not be sorrowfull for any aduersitie that God sendeth: but must alwaies be carefull that nothing be spilt, or go to waste, through her negligence. In any wise shee must be quicke and cleanely about her husbands meate and Gen. 27. 9. drinke, preparing him the same according to his diet in due season. Let her shew her selfe in word and deede, wise, humble, courteous, gen­tle, and louing towards her husband, and also towards such as he doth loue; and then shall she leade a blessed life. Let her shew her selfe not only to loue no man so well as her husband, but also to loue none other at all, but him, vn­lesse it be for her husbands sake, and the Lords.

Wherefore let the wife remember, that (as Gen. 2. 23. 24. Matth. 19. 5. 1. Cor. 6▪ 16. Ephes. 5. 31. How the wi [...] ought to be­haue her selfe vnto her hus­band. the Scripture reporteth) she is one bodie with her husband; so that she ought to loue him none otherwise then her selfe: for this is the greatest vertue of a married woman, this is the thing that wedlocke signifierh and commandeth, that the wife should reckon, to haue her hus­band for both father, mother, brother, & sister, like as Adam was vnto Eue: and as the most no­ble and: chast woman Andromache said her husband Hector was vnto her:

And if it be true that men doe say, that friend­ship maketh one heart of two: much more [Page 220] truely and effectually ought wedlocke to doe the same, which far passeth all manner both of friendship and kindred. Therefore it is no [...] said, marriage doth make one man, or one minde, or one bodie of two, but cleerely one person; wherefore matrimonie requireth a greater du­tie of the husband towards his wife, and the wife towards her husband, then otherwise they are bound to shew to their parents. The A­postle biddeth, To reioyce with them that re­ioyce, and weepe with them that weepe. With Rom. 12. 15. whom should the wife reioyce, rather then with her louing husband? Or with whom should she weepe and mourne, rather then with her owne flesh? I will not leaue thee, saith Elisha [...] Eliah: so she should say, I will neuer leaue him [...] King. 26. till death. Beare one anothers burthen (saith Gal. 6. 2. Paul.) Who shall beare one anothers burthen, if the wife do not beare the husbands but then? Wicked Iesabel comforted her husband in his sicknesse: and leroboams wife sought for his [...] King. 21. 5. [...] King. 14. 4. Gen. 12. 1. health, though she was as bad as he. God did not bid Sarah leaue her father and countrie, as he did bid her husband, yet because he bad A­braham leaue his, she left hers too: shewing that she was content not onely to be his play­fellow, but his yoke-fellow too. Beside a yoke-fellow, [...]en. 2. 18. she is called a Helper, to help him in his labours, to help him in his troubles, to help him in his sicknesse, like a woman Phisition, sometime with her strength, & sometime with [Page 221] her counsell. For as sometime God confoun­deth 1 Cor. 1. 27. the wise by the foolish, and the strong by the weake; so somtimes he teacheth the wise by the foolish, & helpeth the strong by the weak. Therefore Peter saith, Husbands are won by the 1 Pet. 3. 1. conuersation of their wiues. As if he should say, sometime the weaker vessell is the stronger vessell: and Abraham may take counsell of Sa­rah, as Naaman was aduised by his seruant. The Shunamits counsell made her husband re­ceiue a Prophet into his house: and Hesters 2 King. 5. 3. & 4. 9. Hest. 7. 3. counsell made her husband spare the Church of the Iewes: so some haue been better help to their husbands, then their husbands haue bin to Deut. 32. 21. Rom. 10. 19. them: for it pleaseth God to prouoke the wise with the foolish, as hee did the Iewes with the Gentiles. Beside a helper, shee is called a Com­forter Pro. 5. 18. 19. 1 Sam. 16. 23. too: and therefore the man is bid to re­ioyce in his wife: which is as much to say, that wiues must be the reioycing of their husbands, [...]en like Dauids harp to comfort Saul: A good [...]ife therefore is knowne, when her words, and deeds, and countenance, are such as her hus­band loueth. She must not examine whether he be wise or simple, but that she is his wife, and therefore being bound shee must obey: as Abigail loued her husband, though he were a 1 Sam. 25. 3. foole, churlish, and euill conditioned. For the wife is as much despised for taking rule ouer [...]er husband, as hee for yeelding it vnto her. Therefore one saith, that a mankind woman is [Page 222] a monster, that is, halfe a woman, and halfe a man. It beseemeth not the mistres to be master, no more than it becommeth the master to be mistresse: but both must saile with their owne wind, and both keepe their standing.

Lastly, wee call the wife Hus-wife, that is, house-wife, not a street-wife, one that gaddeth Gen. 38. 14. Gen. 34. 1. Why wiues are called hus­wiues. Tit. 2. 5. vp and downe, like Thamar: nor a field wife, like Dinah: but a house-wife: to shew that a good wife keeps her house, and therefore Paul biddeth Titus to exhort women that they be chaste, and keeping at home: presently after Chast, he saith, keeping at home, as though home were Chastities keeper. And therefore Sale­mon depainting, and describing the qualitie [...] Prou. 7. 12. of a whore, setteth her at the doore, now si [...] vpon her stall, now walking in the streets, no [...] looking out of the window, like cursed Ie [...] ­ble, as if she held forth the glasse of temptation, 2. King. 9. 30. for vanitie to gaze vpon. But chastitie careth [...] please but one, and therefore she keeps her c [...] ­set as if she were still at prayer.

The Angell asked Abraham, Where is t [...] wife? Abraham answered: She is in the Te [...] Gen. 18. 9. The Angell knew where shee was, but he as­ked that he might see how women in old ti [...] did keepe their tents and houses. It is recorde [...] of the Shunamite, that she did aske her husband leaue to go vnto the Prophet, though she we [...] 2. King. 4. 22. to a Prophet, and went of a good errand, and for his cause as much as her owne, yet shee [Page 223] thought it not meet to goe farre abroad with­out her husbands leaue.

The second point is, that wiues submit them­selues, & be obedient vnto their own husbands, Ephcs. 5. 22. 33. 1. Cor. 11. & 14. 34. as to the Lord, because the husband is by Gods ordinance, the wiues head, that is, her defender, teacher, & comforter: and therefore shee oweth her subiection to him, like as the Church doth to Christ, and because the example of Sarah, the mother of the faithfull, which obeyed Abraham Gen 18. 12. 1. Pet. 3. 6. and called him Lord, moueth them thereunto. This point is partly handled before in the first point, as also in the dutie of the husband to the wife. As the Church should depend vpon the wisdome, discretion & wil of Christ, and not fol­low Ephes. 5. 24. what it selfe listeth: so must the wife also submit and apply her selfe to the discretion and will of her husband: euen as the gouernment and conduct of euery thing resteth in the head, not in the bodie. Moses writeth, that the Ser­pent Gennes. 3. 1. was wise aboue all beasts of the field: and that hee did declare in assaulting the woman, that when had hee seduced her, she might also seduce and deceiue her husband. Saint Paul 1. Tim. 2. 14. noting this, among other, the causes of the wo­mans subiection, doth sufficiently shew, that for the auoy ding of the like in conueniences, it is Gods will that she should be subiect to her hus­band, so that she shall haue no other discretion or will, but what may depend vpon her head. The Lord also by Moses saith the same: Thy Gene [...] [Page 224] desire shall be subiect to thy husband, and he shall rule ouer thee. This dominion ouer the wines will doth manifestly appeare in this, that God in old time ordained that if the woman had vowed any thing vnto God, it should notwith­standing rest in her husband to disauow it: so Numb. 30. 7. much is the wiues will subiect to her husband. Yet it is not meant, that the wife should not employ her knowledge and discretion which God hath giuen her, in the help, and for the good of her husband: but alwaies it must be with condition to submit her selfe vnto him, ac­knowledging him to be her head, that finallie they may so agree in one, as the coniunction of marriage doth require. Yet as when [...] L [...]e or other musicall instrument, two strings con­curring in one tune, the sound neuerthelesse is imputed to the strongest and highest: so in a [...] well ordered household, there must be a com­munication, and consent of counsell and will betweene the husband and the wife, yet such, as the counsell and commandement may test in the husband. True it is, that some women are wiser and more discreet then their husbands: as Abigail the wife of Nabal, & others. Where­upon Salomon saith: A wise woman buildeth vp Prou. 14. 1. and 18. 22. and 19. 14. and 31. all. the house: and blessed is the man that hath a discreet wife. Yet still a great part of the dis­cretion of such women shall rest in acknow­ledging their husbands to be their heads, and so vsing the graces that they haue receiued of [Page 225] the Lord, that their husbands may be honored, not contemned either of them or of others: which falleth out contrarie, when the wife will seeme wiser then her husband. So that this mo­destie and gouernment ought to be in a wife: namely, that she should seldome speake, but to her husband, or by her husband. And as the voice of him that soundeth a trumpet is not so lowd, as the sound that it yeeldeth: so is the wisdome and word of a woman of greater vertue and efficacie, when al that she knoweth, and can doe, is, as if it were said and done by her hus­band. The obedience that the wife oweth to her husband, dependeth vpon this subiection of her will and wisedome vnto him. As 1. Pet. 3. 6. Ephesians 5. 33. Ester. 1. 12. So that wo­men may not prouoke their husbands by diso­bedience, in matters that may be performed without offence to God: neither presume ouer them either in kindred or wealth, or obstinatly [...] refuse in a matter that may trouble household peace and quiet. For disobedience begetteth contempt of the husband, and contempt wrath, and is many times the cause of troubles be­tweene the man and the wife. If the obedience importeth any difficultie, shee may for her ex­cuse gently propound the same: yet vpon con­dition to obey (in case the husband should per­sist in his intent) so long as the discommoditie importeth no wickednesse. For it is better to [...]ntinue peace by obedience, then to breake it [Page 226] by resistance. And indeede it is naturall in the members to obey the conduct and gouerne­ment of the head. Yet must not this obedience so far extend, as that the husband should com­mand any thing contrarie to her honour, credit, and saluation, but as it is comely in the Lord: Col. 3. 18. Ephes. 5. 22. Therefore, as it were a monstrous matter, and the means to ouerthrow the person, that the body should in refusing all subiection and obedience to the head take vpon it to guide it selfe, and to command the head: so were it for the wife to rebell against the hus­band.

Let her then beware of disordering and peruerting the course which God in his wise­dome hath established: and with all let her vn­derstand, that going about it, shee riseth not so much against her husband, as against GOD: and that it is her good and honor to obey God, in her subiection & obedience to her husband. If in the practise of this dutie she find any dif­ficultie or trouble through the inconsiderate course of her husband, or otherwise; let her re­member, that the same proceedeth not of the order established by the Lord, but through some sin afterward crept in, which hath mixed gall among the honie of the subiection and o­bedience that the woman should haue enioyed in that estate, wherein, together with Adaw, she was created after the image of God. And so let her humble her selfe in the sight of God, [Page 227] and be well assured that her subiection and o­bedience is acceptable vnto him: and that the more that the image of God is restored in her, and her husband, through the generation of the holy Ghost, the lesse difficultie shee shall finde in that subiection and obedience, as ma­ry in their marriage haue in deed tried, to their great contentment and consolation.

Further, there is a certaine discretion and de­s [...]e required of women to please the nature, inclinations, and manners of their husbands, so long as the same import no wickednesse. For [...] the looking-glasse, howsoeuer faire & beau­tifully adorned, is nothing worth, if it shew that countenance sad which is pleasant: or the same pleasant, that is sad: so the woman deserueth [...]o commendation, that (as it were) contrary­ [...]g her husband, when he is merrie, sheweth her selfe sad; or in sadnesse vttereth her mirth. For as men should obey the lawes of their Ci­ [...]es, so women the manners of their husbands. To some women a becke of her husband is suf­ [...]ent to declare that there is somewhat amisse [...]at displeaseth him, and specially if she beare [...] husband any reuerence. For an honest ma­ [...] hath no neede of any greater staffe, but of [...] word, or one sowre countenance. More­ [...]r a modest and chast woman that loueth [...] husband, must also loue her house, as re­ [...]embring that the husband that loueth his [...]e▪ cannot so well like of the sight of any [Page 228] tapestrie, as to see his wife in his house. For the woman that gaddeth from house to house to prate, confoundeth her selfe, her husband, and familie: Titus 2. 5. But there are foure reasons why the woman is to goe abroad. First, to come to holy meetings, according to the dutie of godlinesse. The second, to visit such as stand in neede, as the dutie of loue and charitie doth require. The third, for employment and pro­uision in household affaires committed to her charge. And lastly, with her husband, when hee shall require her. Gen. 20. 1. &c. The euill and The wife must keepe a good tongue. vnquiet life that some women haue, and passe with their husbands is not so much for that, they commit with, and in their persons, as it is for that, they speake with their tongues. If the When the wife doth hold her peace, she kee­peth the peace The cause of domesticall combats. wife would keepe silence when her husband be­ginneth to chide, he should not haue so vnquiet dinners, neither she the woorse supper. Which surely is not so: for at the same time that the husband beginneth to vtter his griefe, the wife beginneth to scold and chafe; where of doth fol­low, that now and then most vnnaturally they come to handy gripes, more beast-like the [...] Christian-like: which their so doing is both [...] great shame, and a foule discredit to them both [...] Silence be­commeth a woman. The best meanes therefore that a wife can v [...] to obtaine, and maintaine the loue and good [...] ­king of her husband, is to be silent, obedie [...] peaceable, patient, studious to appease his chol [...] if he be angrie, paineful and diligent in lookin [...] [Page 229] to her businesse, to be solitarie and honest. The Lacke of knowledge of Gods word is the principall cause why wiues doe not their dutie to their husbands. chiefe and speciall cause why most women do faile in not performing this dutie to their hus­bands, is, because they be ignorant of the word of God, which teacheth the same and all other duties: and therefore their soules and consci­ences not being brought into subiection to God and his word, they can neuer vntill then, yeeld and performe true subiection and obe­dience to their husbands, and behaue them­selves so euery way, as Christian wiues are in [...]tie bound to doe. But if wiues be not so du­ [...]l, seruiceable, and subiect to their husbands, [...] in conscience they ought; the onely cause [...]ereof, for the most part, is the want and neg­lect of the wise, discreet, and good gouern­ [...]ent that should be in the husbands: besides [...]e want of good example that they should [...]e vnto their wiues both in word and deede. [...]or as the common saying is: Such a husband, [...]ch a wife. For so much as marriage maketh [...]f two persons one, therefore the loue of the [...]and and wife may the better be kept and [...]creased, and so continued, if they remember [...] duties last spoken of, as also not forget three [...]s following.

1. They must be of one heart, will, and mind, One heart and one will. [...]d neither to vpbraide, or cast the other in the [...]h with their wants and imperfections any [...]es, or to pride themselues in their gifts: but [...]er the one to endeuour to supplie the others [Page 230] wants, that so they both helping and doing their best together may be one perfect bodie.

2. It doth greatly increase loue when the How the loue, faithfulnesse, and dutie of married folkes may be kept, and increased. one faithfully serueth the other: when in things concerning marriage the one hideth no secrets nor priuities from the other, and the one doth not vtter or publish the frailties or infirmities of the other: and when of all that euer they obtaine or get, they haue but one common purse together, the one locking vp nothing from the other: and also when the one is faithful [...] the other in all their businesses and affaires. Likewise, when the one harkneth to the other, and when the one thinketh not scorne of the other, and when in matters concerning the go­uernement of the house, the one will be coun­selled and aduised by the other, the one of them being alwaies louing, kind, courteous, plaine, and gentle vnto the other in words, manners and deedes.

3. Let the one learne euer to be obsequio [...]s, diligent, and seruiceable to the other in all ho­nest things. And this will the sooner come to passe, if the one obserue and marke what thing the other can away withall, or cannot away withall: and what pleaseth or displeaseth the [...] and so from thence-forth to doe the one, an [...] to leaue the other vndone. And if one of the [...] They must se­cretly keepe no euill will in their mindes, but tell their griefe. be angrie and offended with the other, then le [...] the partie grieued open and make knowne to the other their griefe in due time, and with [Page 231] discretion. For the longer a displeasure, or euill will rageth in secret, the worse will be the dis­cord. And this must be obserued, that it be done in a sit and conuenient time: because there is some season in the which if griefes were she­wed, it should make greater debate. And if the wife should goe about to tell or admonish her husband when he is out of patience, or moued with anger, it should then be no fit time to talke with him. Therefore Abigail perceiuing Na­ [...]al 1. Sam. 25, 36. 37. her husband to be drunke, would not speake to him vntill the morning. Both the husband and wife must remember, that the one be not so offended & displeased with the man­ [...]ers of the other, that they should thereupon 1. Cor. 7. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. Mat. 19. 6. Math. 19 9. and 5. 33. Luke. 26. 18. for sake the companie one of the other: for that were like to one that being stung with the Bees, would therefore forsake the honie. And therefore no man may put away his wife for a­ny cause, except for whoredome, which must be duely proued before a lawfull Iudge. But all godly and faithfull married folkes are to com­mend their state & marriage to God by humble and feruent prayer, that he for his beloued sons [...]ke would so blesse them and their marriage, that they may so christianly and dutifully agree betweene themselues, that they may haue no cause of any separation or diuorcement. For [...]ke as all manner of medicines (and specially they that goe nighest death, as to cut off whole [...]embers, &c.) are very lothsome and terrible: [Page 132] euen so is diuorcement indeed a medicine, but a perilous and terrible medicine. Therefore euery good Christian husband and wife ought with all care and heedfulnesse so to liue in mar­riage, that they haue no neede of such a medi­cine. As the holy Scripture maketh mention of many wiues and women that were wicked and vngodly, as partly may be seene by these quotations, 1. King. 11. 1. 2. Prou. 21. 9. & 22, 14 and 25. 24. & 27. 15. Eccles. 7. 28. 30. So con­trariwise, the same sacred Scripture also com­mendeth vnto vs many women that haue beene deuout, religious, and vertuous: as partly is ma­nifest by that which hath already been said: [...] also by these places of Scripture, Ruth. 3. 11. 1. Sam. 25. 3. Pro. 14. 1. and 31. 10. Mat. 28. 1. 8. 9. 10. Luke. 82. 3. and 23. 55. 56. Acts. 1. 14. and 17. 4. and 9. 36. 39. 2. Iohn. 1. 1. Tim. 1. 5. And whosoeuer shall obserue it [...] the reading of the word of God, shall finde that it speaketh of the praise of as many, a [...] moe good women, then men. Yea, and I a [...] perswaded, that if at this day a due suruey shu [...] be taken of all men and women througho [...] his Maiesties dominions, there would be fo [...] in number moe women that are faithfull, re [...] ­ous, and vertuous, then men. The wife ought to obey her husband in all things, that be honest and agreeable to Gods word.

Now, if a wife be desirous to know how f [...] she is bound to obey her husband, the Apost [...] resolueth this doubt, where he saith, Eph. 5. 22. saying, Wiues, submit your selues vnto you [...] [Page 233] husbands, as to the Lord. As if hee had said: Wiues cannot be disobedient to their husbands but they must resist God also, who is the author of this subiection: and that they must regard their husbands will, as the Lords will. But yet withall, as the Lord commandeth that which is good and right: so shee should obey her hus­band in good and right, or else she doth not obey him as the Lord, but as the tempter. The first subiection of the woman began at sinne. For when GOD cursed her for seducing her husband, when the Serpent had deceiued her, hee sayd: Hee shall haue authoritie ouer thee. Gen. 3. 16. And therefore as the man named all other crea­tures, in signe that they should be subiect to him, as a seruant which commeth when his ma­ster calleth him by his name: so he did name the woman also, in token that she should bee subiect to him likewise. And therefore Assue­ [...] Hest. 1. 20. 22. Num. 30. 7. 8. 9. 1. Pet. 3. 6. made a law, that euery man should beare [...]le in his owne house, and not the woman. Be­cause she sinned first, therefore she is humbled [...]ost: and euer since, the daughters of Sarah [...]e bound to call their husbands Lord, as Sarah called her husband: that is, to take them for leads and gouernours.

Amongst the particular duties that a Christi­ [...] It is a speciall dutie of a mo­ther to giue her children sucke her selfe. wife ought to performe in her familie, this [...] one: namely, that shee nurse her owne chil­dren: which to omit, and to put them forth to [...]sing, is both against the law of nature, and [Page 234] so against the will of God. Besides, it is hurtfull both for the childes bodie, and also for his wi [...] and lastly, it is hurtfull to the mother her selfe, and it is an occasion that she falleth into much sicknesse thereby.

First, Nature giueth milke to the woman for none other end, but that shee should bestow it vpon her childe. We see by experience, that cucry beast, and euery fowle is nourished and bred of the same that did beare it: onely some women loue to be mothers, but not nurses. As therefore euery tree doth cherish and nourish that which it bringeth forth: euen so also it be­commeth naturall mothers to nourish their children with their owne milke. 1. Tim. 5. 10.

Secondly, the examples of the Scriptures are many that prooue this. As Sarah, who nursed Isaac, though shee were a Princesse, and there­fore able enough to haue had others to have Gen. 22 7. taken that paines. Though shee was a beau­tifull woman, and of great yeares, yet shee her selfe nursed and gaue sucke to her sonne. Also Anna. vnto whom the holy Ghost hath 1. Sam. 1. 23. left it recorded as a commendation, that shee nursed her owne sonne Samuel. So when God chose a nurse for Moses, hee led the Hand-maide of Pharaohs daughter to his mo­ther: Exod. 2. 8. Cant. 8. 1. Psal. 22. 9. Matth. 2. 14. Luke. 2. 7. 12. as though GOD would haue none to nurse him but his mother. Likewise, when the Sonne of God was borne, his father thought none sit to be his nurse, but the Virgin his [Page 235] mother. It is a commendation of a good wo­man, 1. Tim. 5. 10. and set down in the first place as a princi­pall good worke in a widow that is well repor­ted of, if she haue nursed her children. And therefore such as refuse thus to doe, may well and fitly be called nice and vnnaturall mothers: yea, in so doing they make themselues but half-mothers, and so breake the holy bond of nature, in locking vp their breasts from their children, and deliuering them forth like the Cuckoo, to be hatched in the Sparrowes nest.

Thirdly, the childrens bodies be commonly so affected, as the milke is which they receiue. Now, if the Nurse be of an euill complexion; a she is affected in her bodie, or in her minde, or hath some hidden disease, the childe sucking of her breast must needes take part with her. And if that be true which the learned doe say, that the temperature of the mind followes the constitution of the bodie, needs must it be, that if the nurse be of a naughtie nature, the childe must take thereafter. Yet if it be so that the nurse be of a good complexion, and of an honest be­hauiour: (whereas contrariwise, Maidens that haue made a scape, are commonly called to be Nurses) yet can it not be, but that the mo­thers milke should be much more naturall for the child, then the milke of a stranger. As by experience, let a man be long accustomed to one kinde of drinke, if the same man change his ayre, and his drinke, he is like to mislike it, [Page 236] as the egges of a Henne are altered vnder a Hawke. Neuer thelesse, such women as be op­pressed with infirmities, diseases, want of milke, or other iust and lawfull causes, are to be di­spensed withall. But, whose breasts haue this perpetuall drought? Forsooth, it is like the gowte, no beggers may haue it, but Citizens or gentlewomen. In the 9. of Hosea, verse 14. drie breasts are named for a curse. What a la­mentable hap haue Gentlewomen to light vp­on this curse, more then other? Sure, if their breasts be drie, as they say they are, they should fast and pray together, that this curse might be remoued from them.

And lastly, that it is hurtfull to the mothers themselues both Phisitians can tell, and some women full oft haue felt: when they haue been troubled with sore beasts, besides other disea­ses, that happen to them through plentie of milke.

The wife is further to remember, that God hath giuen her two breasts; not that she should employ & vse them for a shew, or of ostentati­on, but in the seruice of God, and to be a help to her husband, in suckling the child common to them both. Experience, teacheth that God conuerteth the mothers blood into the milke, wherewith the child is nursed in her wombe. He bringeth it into the breasts furnished with nipples conuenient to minister the warme milke vnto the child: whom hee indueth with [Page 237] industrie, to draw out the milke for his owne sustenance. The woman therefore that can suckle her child and doth it not, but refuseth this office and dutie of a mother, declareth her selfe to be very vnthankefull to God, and (as it were) for saketh & contemneth the fruit of her wombe. And therefore the bruit beasts lying vpon the ground, and granting not one nipple or two, but sixe or seuen to their young ones, shall rise in iudgement against these dainetie halfe-mothers, who for feare of wrinckling of their faces, or to auoid some small labour, doe refuse this so necessarie a dutie of a mother due to her children. The properties due to a marri­ed wife, are, that shee haue grauitie when shee walketh abroad: wisedome to gouerne her house: patience to suffer her husband: loue, to breed and bring vp her children: courtesie to­wards hee neighbours: diligence, to lay vp, and to saue such goods as are within her charge: that she be a friend of honest company, and a grea­ter enemie of wanton and light toyes. So then, the principall dutie of the wife, is, first to be subiect to her husband, Ephes. 5. 22. Col. 3. 18. 1. Pet. 3. 1. 2. To be chast and shamefast, mo­dest and silent, godly and discreet. 3. To keepe her selfe at home for the good gouernement of her familie, and not to stray abroad without iust cause.

Here it is not to be pretermitted, but wee must say somewhat touching men and women Stepfathers Stepmothers their duties. [Page 238] that be twise married, and so become Step­fathers, and Step-mothers. Such husbands and wiues as marrie againe after the death of their The Husband must so praise his first Wife, and she her first Husband, as it be not done to the offence or reproch of either to the other. Iealousie, which is the suspecting of adulterie in the married par­ties, ought wisely & care­fully to be sup­pressed on both parties, without appa­rant matter. first wiues, or first husbands, are carefully to re­member that they do not displease their wiues, or their husbands which they now haue, by o­uermuch rehearsing of their first wife, or first husband. For the course and condition of the world is such, that husbands and wiues doe ac­count & reckon things past better then things that be present. And the reason is, because no commoditie or selicitie is so great, but it hath some griefe and displeasure, and also some bit­ternesse mingled with it: which so long as it is present grieueth vs sore, but when it is once gone, it leaueth no great feeling of it selse be­hind it: and for that cause we seeme to be lesse troubled with sorrowes & discommodities past, then with those that are present. Also age stea­leth & commeth on apace, which causeth both men and women to be the lesse able to sustain and indure troubles and griefes then, than be­fore. Therefore such men and women as be twise married, and be wise and religious, ought not to esteeme their wife, or husband which is dead, better then her or him which they enioy now aliue: remembring the common pro­uerbe, That we must liue by the quicke, and not by the dead: and that we must make much of that we now haue. Let the name of Step-father and Step-mother, admonish and put them in [Page 239] minde of their dutie towards the children of the one and the other. For Step-father & Step-mother, The verie name of Step-father & Step-mother, tea­cheth them their dutie. doth signifie a sted-father and a sted-mother, that is, one father, or one mother di­eth, and another succeedeth and commeth in their stead & roome. Therfore to the end that both their loues may be setled towards the chil­dren of the one & the other, they must remem­ber that they are stead-father and stead-mother, that is, in stead of their owne father and mo­ther: and therefore they ought to loue them, to tender them, and to cherish them, as their owne father or mother did. You must not look vpon them like Rehoboam, who told his people, that hee would be worse vnto them then his prede­cessor: 1. King. 12. 13. 10. 21. for then the children will dislike of you, and turne from you, as his subiects did from him: but ye must come to them, as Dauid came to the people after Sauls death, who said, 2. Sam. 2. 7. Though your master Saul be dead, yet I will raigne ouer you: so ye must say to them, though your father be dead, or though your mother be dead, yet I will be a father, or I will be a mother vnto you: so the children will loue you, as much as they did their dead father, or dead mother. For that man that is led with discreti­on, reason, and consideration, will reckon himselfe and his wife all one: and likewise, shee will account her selfe and her husband as one. And therefore they ought to account both the children of the one, and of the other, as [Page 140] common to them both. For if friendship make all things common among friends, insomuch, that many haue loued & fauoured their friends children as their owne, how much more effe­ctually and perfectly ought marriage to cause the same, which is the highest degree, not only of friendship, but also of all blood and kindred. But Step-mothers doe more often offend, and faile in this dutie, then men, by reason that their affections be stronger then mens, and many times ouer-rule them: and therefore they are earnestly to be admonished and warned, that they shew to those motherlesse children no Step-mothers friendship, but a right motherly kindnes. Let the Step-mother aduisedly con­sider, that God hath ordained and appointed her (in stead of their owne mother) to be to them a right true mother, and not onely to re­gard them as children but as orphane children, and that he requireth her to loue them, and to doe them good, as to her owne. What a griefe would it be to her hart, if she should know now that her owne children whom shee hath borne in her owne bodie should (after her death) haue a stepmother that would be rigorous, churlish▪ and vnkinde vnto them? doubtlesse those chil­drens mother, that dead is, had vpon her death­bed no lesse care for her children. Let her ther­fore alwaies haue in minde this saying of our Sauiour Christ: As you measure vnto others, so it shall be measured to you againe, that is, as the [Page 141] step-mother doth intreate the children of her predecessor, so another wife may come after her, and intreat her children. For he that tooke away the first mother, and sent her, can take a­way the second mother, and send a third, which will not be like a stead-mother to hers, vnlesse she be like a stead-mother to these. Verely, a good woman will be vnto her husbands chil­dren that which she may heare them call her so often, that is, Mother. For what Christian wo­man is so farre from all humanitie and naturall affection, that will not be moued and mittiga­ted with is word Mother, of whom soeuer it be spoken? and chiefly of children which can­not flatter, but speake euen so from their heart, as they would to their owne mother, of whom they were borne. How sweet is the name of friendship? how many iniuries, hatreds and displeasures doth it hide and put away? Then how much more effectuall ought the sweet name of mother to be, which is full of incredible loue? Therefore euerie religious and louing wife will be mollified and moued in her heart and minde, when she shall heare her selfe named mother, by any of her husbands chil­dren.

Otherwise, she shal shew her selfe to be more vnnaturall and vnkinde, then the wilde sauage beast: for there is no beast so outragious and cruell but if any other yong beast of her owne kind fawne vpon her, she will by and by shew [Page 242] kindnes and mildnes vnto it. And shall not her husbands children make her kinde and louing vnto them, when they call and speake vnto her, by the louing and sweet name of mother?

3. The third and last point that appertaineth to the duety of wiues, is, that they do not weare As Wiues ought to goe comely, clean­ly, and hand­somely in their apparrell, so they must in any wise be­ware of pride, riot, or excesse therein. gorgeous and sumptuous apparrell, or broide­red haire trimmed with gold: but that after the example of holy women which trusted in God, they be sober in outward apparrell, and garnished and decked inwardly with ver­tues of their minds: as with gentlenesse, meek­nes, quietnes, and chastitie, which indeede are most precious things in the sight of God. This point is plainely spoken of by the A­postle to Timothie, chap. 2. vers. 9. 10. in which place he so flatly condemneth both the excesse and pride of apparell, as also the pompe, cu­riositie, and wantonnesse which women vse in trimming their heads, by plaiting, crisping, broi­ding, curling, and curiously laying out, that no man can say more against it, in so few wordes, then he hath spoken, to the vtter dislike thereof. For if a man should occupy himselfe, and giue libertie to his pen to write of the horrible abuse and excessiue pride that many women are Pride is hate­ [...]ul before God [...]nd man: Be not there­ [...]ore proude, [...]or thou art [...]ut dust and [...]shes. guilty of, in this behalfe he shouid rather want time to write then matter to deliuer. There­fore such women as will not reforme them­selues, we leaue them to the Lord; who (no doubt will in his appointed time, not onely [Page 243] seuerely punish them, but also their husbands, for suffering this great wickednesse and dis­solutenesse in their wiues, as he did the Iewes for the same sinne, as plainely may be seene in Esay 3. 16. &c. For so it falleth out, according [...]o the common prouerbe, That pride goeth Prou. 16. 18. before, and shame and destruction commeth after. And on the contrarie part, we hope that such women as be true professors of Christ and his religion, will both attire and dresse their heads so decently, and also content them­ [...]elues with such comely apparrell, as best be­ [...]eemeth their calling and degree; so as by their Titus 2. 3. good example, they may draw on other wo­ [...]en to reforme themselues in this behalfe, and [...]o rather to come short of that which their [...]ilitie and place would serue to maintaine, [...]en any way to exceede therein, to the slaun­ [...]r of their profession. And let them not so [...]ch regard what thing they would faine Temperance in apparrell. [...]e, but rather what they cannot well be with­ [...]t: so that whatsoeuer they haue no need of, is [...]o deare of a farthing.

The dutie of Parents to­wards their Children.

THis dutie consisteth, in fou [...] points. The dutie containeth foure points: namely, in teaching or instructing them in reli­gion, in ma­ners, good ex­ample of life, and skill of an occupation.

First, that fathers and mother [...] doe instruct and bring vp the [...] children euen from the crad [...] in the feare and nurture of the Lord.

Secondly, that they bring them vp in sham [...] fastnesse, hatred of vice, and loue of all ve [...] tue.

Thirdly, that they be vnto their children, [...] amples of all godlines and vertue.

Fourthly, that they keepe them from idlenesse, the mother of all mischiefes, and brin [...] them vp either in learning, or in some goo [...] Art, or Occupation, whereby they may g [...] their liuing with honestie and trueth, whe [...] they shall come to age and yeeres of discr [...] tion.

1. Touching the first point, Parents are [...] be admonished, that they beare in minde, th [...] The first point the cause why the Lord hath blessed them wi [...] [Page 245] children, is: first that they should be carefull to [...]e that their children be so vertuously brought [...]p, that they may become citizens of the Church of God: so that whensoeuer they them­ [...]es shall die in the Lord, they may leaue [...]eir children true worshippers of God in their [...]lace. But alasse, there be sew that haue any great care of this dutie.

It is to be remembred, that it is the fathers [...]tie, with all conuenient speede to present the [...]lde to baptisme, and there to giue the name [...]to his child: as may appeare by the example [...]ke 1. 63. Genesis 21. 3.

And it were a thing to be wished, that all The children of Christians ought not to be called by any popish names. [...]ents, when, and at such time as God blesseth [...]em with children, would giue them such [...]es, as are named and commended vnto [...] in the holy Scriptures; to the end that [...]en they come to yeeres of discretion, they [...]y hearing those names, may be excited and [...]ued to follow the vertuous life and Christi­ [...] conuersation of those men and women [...]hose names they beare, which the holy Ghost [...]h commended them for; and contrari­ [...]se to eschue and auoyde those faults and vi­ [...] which are discommended in them. And [...] we haue to remember, that those children [...]hich are named and called by, and after any We are neither better nor worse in respect of our names. Iosua. 10. 3. [...]f the names of the Patriarkes, Prophets, Apo­ [...]es, or by the name of any other Saint, man [...] woman, are not any thing the better, [Page 246] because they haue such godly and Christian The name profiteth none in whom ver­tue is not commended. names, vnlesse that they doe imitate and follow them in faith, vertue, and godly behauiour: so on the other side, they that be not called by such Christian names as are mentioned in the sacred Scripture, are not in respect of their names any thing the worse, hauing an assured faith in the merits of Christ his death, passion, and bloodshedding, and leading their liues a­greeable to the same. For as neither the yeerely reueneues, nor the glorious titles and names of ancestors, nor to descend of noble parentage, maketh men noble & renowned indeed, vnlesse they themselues be godly, honest, and wise: so neither the godly names, no nor yet the faith & vertue of the fathers, auaileth the wicked and vngodly children any thing at all, vnlesse they repent and become faithfull, and godly, as they were. Let vs here consider, that so often as i [...] the race of our life we do heare, or do speake [...] our name, it doth put vs in remembrance, first, of Gods mercie shewed vnto vs in our Bap­tisme: secondly, of our promise to God againe [...] And as in times amongst our ancestors, Infan [...] Luke. 1. 59. & 2. 21. Proper names are also giuen vnto vs, for this vse and end, that is, to distinguish be­twixt man and man. had their names giuen them when they we [...] circumcised, as appeareth in Luke, no doubt [...] this end, that the circumcised should be admonished by the calling by their names, at wh [...] time & place they had their names giuen them, and should thinke that they are written in the number of the children of God, and ioyned i [...] [Page 247] league with him, and made partakers of the co­ [...]enant: so likewise after the same maner, must [...]ee that haue had our names giuen vs in bap­ [...]isme remember and beare in minde, that wee are by grace adopted to be the sons of God, & receiued into his fauour, & therefore that we are Gods owne, and as it were his goods and riches, who beare his name as proper vnto him.

2. Secondly, they may assure themselues, that all their labour is lost which they bestow vpon their children, vnlesse they bring them vp in the feare of God, and oftentimes call vpon Gods help by earnest prayer, that he in mercy [...]ould vouchsafe to preserue them from the manifold snares, subtilties, and temptations of Sathan, which their tender age is subiect vnto. We may heare many parents complaine of the disobedience of their children: but they do not marke & consider that they are iustly punished [...]y God, for that they thinke by their owne in­dustrie and wit to make them good and ver­ [...]ous, without Gods blessing, which they sel­ [...]e or neuer call for in good earnest.

3. Thirdly, let them consider how noble [...] thing a child is, whom God himselfe hath [...]ped and formed in his mothers wombe, [...]ourished, brought forth into the light, and in­ [...]ed with body and soule, to the end he should (as it were in a table) represent God his first [...]aterne.

4. Fourthly, let them know that these things [Page 248] are to be dealt withall in order. Vnto the bodie Instructing, correcting, and prayer, make good children, and happie Parents. 1. King. 2. 2. 5. Gen. 35. 30. they owe nourishment, bringing vp, apparrell, and sometime correction, that they may keepe children in awe. Vnto the soule they owe cate­chising, instruction, and doctrine: and that of two sorts: namely, of godlinesse, and of ciuili­tie. By the one, they shall keepe a good consci­ence before God. By the other, they shall ob­taine a good report among men. For these are the two principall points which parents ought to be most carefull to plant in this life in their children, both which the Apostle comprehen­deth in one verse, where he saith. Ephes. 6. 4. Yee fathers prouoke not your children to wrath, [...] bring them vp in instruction, and informati [...] of the Lord. And therefore all parents are dili­gently to instruct and teach their children the first principles of Christ his religion, so soore as by age they are able to perceiue and vnder­stand the same, that they may (as it were) suc [...] in godlines together with their mothers milke, and straight waies after their cradle, may be nourished with the tender foode of vertue to­wards that blessed life. To haue godly children (no doubt) is the greatest Treasure that may be. For in the children doe the parents liue (in a manner) euen after death. And if they be wel in­structed, catechised, and vertuously brought vp, God is honoured by them, the common wealth is aduanced, yea, their parents, and all other fare the better for them. They are their [Page 249] parents to comfort, next vnto God, their ioy, staffe, and vpholding of their age: and therfore parents ought to begin betimes to plant ver­tue in their childrens breasts: for late sowing bringeth a late or neuer apt Haruest. Young branches will bow as a man will haue them, but old trees will sooner breake then bow. And therefore as arrowes are an excellent weapon of defence, to a strong & a mightie man that can shoot them with courage: euen so children god­ly brought vp, are a speciall protection and de­fence to their parents. And as the strong mans [...]iuer, the better it is furnished with chosen [...]f [...]es, the better defence he hath: so likewise the more godly children that parents haue, the greater is their ioy & happines: Yea, & further, as arrowes are at the commandement of the [...]ner to be vsed: euen so children well taught are at the commandement of godly parents.

5. Lastly, let parents remember how many s [...]nnes they commit and heape one vpon ano­ther, which doe not their dutie in bringing vp their children, as they ought to doe. First, they [...]nsgresse the law of nature, which telleth all [...]en, that their dutie is to bring vp their chil­dren godlily and honestly. Secondly, they sin against God: for they dispise the commande­ [...]ent Deut. 6. 7. 8. & 4. 9. &. 11. 19. Psal. 78. 5. 6. 78. Iosu. 4. 6. & authoritie of God: for he commandeth, that children shuld be brought vp religiously and honestly, but he is a despiser of God, that [...]efuseth to doe as he is commanded. Thirdly, [Page 250] they offend against their owne credit and estimation. For Gods will is, that Parents should (after a sort) be in his stead, so farre forth Exod. 12. 26. 27. as pertaineth to outward discipline. But such make small account of this dignitie, who neg­lect their dutie in this behalfe. Parents are fur­ther to vnderstand, that it is their dutie to have diligent care to see their children taught to pray to God, and to rehearse the Apostles Creede, and the ten Commandements. For as by this ex­ercise their hearts and mindes shall the rather be inclined to godlinesse and reuerence toward God, so as they increase in age, they shall euery day better then other comprehend that which they learne, to their owne comfort, instruction, and saluation. Also, as the tongue is called the glory of man, because that, besides all other reasons, by his speech he is discerned from the bruite beasts: so it is meete, that so soone as the childe can begin to speake, his tongue should be employed to glorifie God, by calling vpon him, and by learning some short Catechisme, containing the principles and grounds of chri­stian religion: as also in repeating the will of God in such sort, as he will that we should serue and honour him.

If parents do note or perceiue any vice in their little ones, as swearing, lying, choller, en­uie, filching, couetousnes, contempt of parents, readinesse to strife, and other like corruptions: it is their dutie, diligently & in time to reproue [Page 251] and correct them; as men vse to plucke vp weeds while they be yet young, least growing vp among the good seeds, they should hinder their growth, & choke them vp. By experience we can see that mothers in swadling their little ones, doe lay their limmes right, each in his place: likewise, if a child be giuen to be left handed, they chide him, yea, sometimes they binde it vp, or otherwise restraine the vse of it, that hee may be accustomed to vse his right hand. Also, if the child haue some string vnder his tongue, they cut it, lest it should hinder his speech: much more then ought they to beware, that through their negligence the vices of the soule doe not increase. For it is the dutie of the parents, euen in the infancie, to begin to shape and frame the soule vnto vertue.

It is also the dutie of parents to prouide that their children may learne at the least to write and read: for it may be vnto them a great help in the course of this life, and a treasure of much greater account then mony. And there­fore the negligence of many is sharpely to be reproued. Besides that, the performance of this dutie doth greatly binde their children vnto them. Neuerthelesse, the principall end there­of should not haue respect to such commo­ditie, as the children may reape therby towards the vse of this present life: but rather that they may read the word of God to their com­fort, and instruction to saluation. Also it [Page 252] were their parts to vse them daily to read some Chapters of the holy scriptures, thereby to in­cline and winne their affections to the word of God, to inure and acquaint them in the phrase of the holy Ghost, by little and little to learne the heauenly doctrine, to note the examples of Gods vengeance powred vpon the wicked and disobedient: and of his blessings vnto those that walke in his feare. Therfore if parents do looke that their children should obey them, then let them ioyne & accustome them to Gods word, which will redound much to their parents pro­fit. If they cause their children to heare & read the holy Scriptures, therein they may learne, Honour thy father and thy mother: but if pa­rents doe otherwise, then they traine them vp in the scriptures of diuels, whereout their chil­dren will learne most wicked things: but it is not so when they are instructed in the holie Scriptures. Parents therefore are diligently to apply themselues to this which God comman­deth, and so often and earnestly commendeth vnto them: namely, to instruct their children in the knowledge and feare of God, and in the faith of Iesus Christ: Deut. 6. 6. 7. and 32. 46. Ephes. 6. 4. So also to teach them those things which they are to vse in their age. It is then great folly to linger children in the learning of vaine, trifling, and vnprofitable things, which as they grow in yeares they will contemne and forget. Parents can be carefull enough to bring [Page 253] vp their children in some course, trade or other estate, wherein to get their liuings when they come to be men: and verely such fathers as doe neglect that, are vnworthie to haue children. But as the soule is more precious then the bo­dy, so is the dutie of parents, in youth to traine vp their children in the practise of those things, wherewith in age, euen in this life, they may glorifie God, and be heires of the Lord. If pa­rents want knowledge, or be vnwilling to take leisure to teach them; yet let them doe as much for their childrens soules, and the life to come, as for their bodies, and this present life. Parents that either cannot write and read, or will not, or haue not time to teach their chil­dren, will yet send them to schoole: and such as would haue them learne some Art or Occupa­tion or traffique, if themselues professe not the same, wherein they like to employ their chil­dren, they will yet put them to dwel with those that doe professe the same, to the end they may learne. How therefore can parents excuse themselues, when their children remaine vn­taught in those things that concerne the glorie of God, and life euerlasting? But howsoeuer i [...] be, if they be neither able of themselues nor do prouide to haue them taught by others, they shall be inexcusable in the sight of God: and the ignorance of the children, ingendring con­tempt of God, loue of the world, and neglect of heauenly felicitie, will crie out for euerlasting [Page 254] vengeance against their parents: so that if they account not their childrem as beastes without soule, or if they loue them with the due loue be­longing to parents, let them declare their loue especially to the soule: the christian instruction whereof surmounteth all worldly treasure.

Some say, it would be a great comfort for them in heauen to know their neere kindred, and consequently their children: and this com­meth of naturall affection. But might it not be a greater discomfort for them, euen in their life time, to see them go to hell for want of instru­ction? Some charge their children to be dull witted, and hard to be bowed, or brought to a­ny goodnesse or vertue: Albeit naturall inclina­tion be a great help or profiting, yet exercise and custome to do well, is a mightie meanes to bend and shape them that way: yea, euen such, that by experience we finde this old prouerbe true: Ʋse ouercommeth nature: as the wheele▪wright doth by strength bow his timber, and letting it lie long in that bent, it bideth crooked Barren ground well tilled, soyled, and sow [...]n with good seed groweth friuitfull, and yeeldeth good increase: Iron weareth with handling: The water by continuall dropping weareth the stone: Wilde beasts may be tamed: and wilde coults by custome be brought to the saddle, and are content to be led by the bridle: euen so the dullest capacities may by instruction and cu­stome be fashioned to vertue. As contrariwise, [Page 155] the wit most inclined by nature to vertue, may by bad instruction and the conuersation of the wicked be peruerted, and grow vicious.

Parents therefore are herein to respect two points: first, to begin to frame and bend their children in their tender youth to vertue, remem­bring that a seale entereth deepest into softest Waxe. They must be carefull that they do not speake or tell any foolish tales, baudie rimes▪ or vngodly speeches before their children, least they infect their tender wits with folly and a­stonishment. Experience sheweth that chil­dren will sooner learne any language by con­uersation then elder folkes. Also that the yon­ger the twig is, the sooner it is bent or made straight.

Secondly, it is the parents dutie to restraine their children from haunting and conuersing with such as be vicious, peruerse, and wicked. And vndoubtedly we see that they doe soone learne villanous and vnseemely speeches, and malicious lewde actions, with their corrupti­ons: and as the old Prouerbe saith, halting with the lame, they shall learne to halt. A childe that naturally speaketh wel, by conuersing with such as corrupt their speech, shall degenerate and speake as badly. Tye a young twig that is crooked with a straight one that is stronger then it, and in growing it will become straight, and so continue when it is vndone. And con­trariwise, a straight one tyed to that which is [Page 156] crooked, and stronger then it selfe, will grow and continue crooked,

Moreouer, parents when they meane to put forth their children to any trade or occupation, or to learning, then they ought carefully to see and enquire whether such as they thinke to place them withall, be religious and vertuous, and endued with the feare of God.

In the admittance of a seruant, the feare of some temporall or carnall inconuenience, cau­seth men to enquire of his, or her truth, hone­stie, or other qualities. Therefore if Parents shall commit their childe to the ordering and instruction of a Master, before they make en­quirie of his honestie and christian conuersa­tion, they plainely shew that they haue lesse care of the corrupting or infecting of their childe with vice, then of some small inconue­nience that might happen by an vnhonest and vnthriftie seruant.

When men buy an earthen pot they sound vpon it, to see whether it be broken, least they should be deceiued in a small peece of monie, yet doe they not sound whether the Master to whom they commit their childe be vicious, or vertuous: albeit by putting and placing him with one that is vicious and irreligious, they put him in daunger of losse, both of bodie and soule.

Some doe respect their friendship with some Masters, rather then their vertue, and so doe [Page 257] commit to them their children, least they should be angrie for putting them to another.

These men doe resemble and be like him, who being dangerously sicke, vseth the aduise of an ignorant Physition, that is his kinsman or familiar friend, for feare he should take of­fence, if he should call another, albeit, without comparison, more learned and skilfull.

If thou shouldest haue any waightie matter in law, wouldest thou rather commit thy cause to an ignorant and negligent atturney, because he is thy friend, then to him that were both di­ [...]igent and learned? Making a voyage through some dangerous Sea, wouldest thou in a tem­pest, commit thy Ship to a young Pilot, vn­skilfull, or drunke, because hee is thy friend? What a foole art thou, that wilt not take the like care of the profit, honour, safetie, and sal­ [...]ation of thy childe?

Others commit their children, either to him, that will take them at the easiest rate, or by whom they may grow into greatest aduance­ment in the world, but neuer respect the ha­zard of their childe, so they may either spare, or get worldly goods. Let them also be carefull to restraine their children from vice, & to inure & accustome them tovertue: and indeed the fathers that instruct, or cause their children to be in­structed, do far excell such, as onely doe beget them: for of these they receiue life only, of the o­ther good & vertuous life. Yet parents ought not [Page 258] so much to relie and rest vpon the diligence of their childrens masters, as neuer to care to vn­derstand how they profit and goe forward in learning and vertue? for the regard of such di­ligence would make the masters more careful­ly to discharge their duties. And thereof came the Prouerb. The masters eye fatteth the horse: and this, The masters eye is the fruitfulnesse of the garden.

Vpon these sins ensue many punishments, both ghostly and bodily, as well in the pa­rents, as in the children: yea, and in all the po­steritie.

The holy Scripture giueth great commen­dation to sundry men & women, for their god­ly education, and vertuous bringing vp of their children: as to Abraham, for he commanded his sonnes and his household, to keepe the way Gen. 18. 19. 1. Chro. 28. 9. Act. 10. 2. 2. Tim. 1. 5. Parents must performe their dutie to their children mo­derately with great grauitie and authority. Gen. 22. 7. 8. Pro. 4. 3. 4. 5. 6. Pro. 3. 1. 2. &c. That is [...]hought to [...]e well done which is done by example. Fruites are of the Lord. So Dauid counselled his sonne Salomon to serue God, with a perfect heart, and a willing mind. It is said also of Cornelius, that he feared God, and all his household. Likewise of Eunica the mother of Timothie, that shee nourished vp her sonne in the words of faith, and good doctrine. For where a vertuous and godly childhood goeth before, there a godly and vertuous age followeth after. Contrari­wise, when the parents are not carefull to teach their children to know God, and to know them­selues: when they do not breed them vp in ver­tue, nor reproue them when they doe amisse, [Page 259] they then become corrupt in their vnderstan­ding, and abhominable in their doings: igno­rant, and void of all knowledge and grace, and of reuerence or feeling of nature.

If Parents be desirous to haue their children vertuous, and honest indeed (as in conscience they ought) then they must be diligent and wont to take their shape carefull to practise godlinesse and honestie themselues. For we see by experience, according to the common Prouerbe. As the old cocke [...]eth, the young learneth: such a father, such a [...]e: and such a mother, such a daughter. For [...]e as when the head is well and sound, and al­so the stomacke pure from hurtfull humours, the bodie is commonly well affected: euen so, there the head or chiefe of any familie or household, is religious and sound in the faith, [...]d feareth God, it commonly goeth wel with [...]l the household.

What shall it auaile, for parents to teach their [...]dren honestie & modestie, when they them­selues in their workes and behauiour, do inuite [...]em to wantonnesse, and lewdnesse? Verball [...]struction, without example of good deedes, [...] a dead doctrine: and contrariwise, good ex­ [...]ples are the life of instruction, to make it [...]fitable and effectuall. If the example of [...]ents be contrarie to their instructions: If [...]ey teach their children sobrietie, modestie, [...]d chastitie, and yet themselues will follow [...]kennesse, foule and lasciuious speeches, [Page 260] gestures, and actions: it is as if with their tongues they should say be vertuous, and by the hands lead them with them to all vice and cor­ruption. So that wicked parents are wicked counsellers to their children. If we would take him to be a Monster in nature, and vnworthy to liue in a Common wealth, that should coun­sell his child to drunkennesse and fornication, what shall we thinke of those, who commit­ting such iniquitie, doe by their example much more mightily put forward their children to such abhomination, then by word they are able? What account can those Parents giue vnto GOD, who by their euill example, haue drawne into Hell their children, whom he deli­uered to their charge to be guided into Hea­uen? Albeit such parents pitie not themselues, yet at least let them take pitie of their children, and not carrie them with them into euerlasting destruction. Such parents then deserue grie­nously to be reprooued, as shall vse any lewd speeches, or shamelesse behauiour, in briefe, a­ny worldly or carnall actions in the presence of their children, to whom their examples may be as a dispensation, to giue themselues to the like. As also, how can they forbid that in their children, which they themselues doe commit? how can they correct them for the faults, which they themselues vse? Albeit children, in respect and reuerence to their parents, dare not reply and say, themselues doe these things, for the [Page 161] which they reprooue them: yet will the neigh­bours or others obiect it to their shame. Be­sides, their authoritie shal be so much the lesse. in that they declare in their works and actions, that they allow that which they forbide in words.

If parents therfore desire that their instruction may be effectuall, and yeeld fruit, let them de­clare the same in holy life, and vertuous conuer­sation: let them so order & gouerne themselues, that their children seeing the same as it were in a glasse, may be restrained from dishonest speech and wicked deeds: let them doe as guides, that shew the right way ouer foords and riuers, by going before those whom they leade: that their children following the steps and examples of their parents, may conforme themselues to their vertues, and so with them, and by them, be led to saluation, and life euerlasting.

For this cause Moses gaue commandement Deut. 6. 5. 6. 7. & 31. 13. vnto the Iewes, that the law might be kept in their families, that they might prosper in all that they went about. When Obed-edom had receiued the Arke of God into his house, which signified true Religion, the Lord blessed him 1. King. 17. 10. &c. 2. King. 4. 1. &c. and all his household. When the widdow of Z [...]epthah in the daies of Eliah, and the other [...]ddow of Israel, in the dayes of Elisha, had receiued the Prophets of God into their hou­ [...]es, who is ignorant how mightily and merci­ [...]lly the Lord prouided for them? When our [Page 262] Sauiour Christ had restored the Rulers sonne to his health, the Ruler beleeued and all his fa­milie. [...]hn 4. 53. After Zacheus had receiued Christ into his house, and was conuerted: saluation came to [...]uke 19. 9. the same household. To be short, when Corne­lius [...]ct. 10. 44. the Centurion embraced the Gospel, his familie also beleeued and were baptized, and the holy Ghost fell vpon them all, which heard the preaching. And how well that house was ordered, where Timothie was brought vp, his knowledge in the Scriptures from a childe [...]. Tim. 1. 5. & 3. 15. can witnesse.

And this is also a point worthy to be remem­bred, that the Lord, by his Prophet Ezechiel, calleth the children of the Israelites, which they had begotten, His children, because they were Eze. 16. 20. 21. partakers of the promises, and signed with the seale of his couenant: and the Prophet calleth them, The inheritance of the Lord.

Such parents therefore, as be Christians Psal. 127. 3. must know, that their children are also the chil­dren of God, and partakers of those blessings that are promised to them in Christ Iesus their Sauiour: and therefore that they shall do great iniurie to God himselfe, whose children they are, if they shall not see them carefully brought vp in his feare: and much more, if they, as be­fore time many haue done, bequeath them, and See more of this point in the vse and necessitie of catechising. in a maner consecratn and sacrifice them to the seruice of men, by thrusting them into Ab­beyes, Munckeries, Frieries, Nunneries, and [Page 263] Seminaries, there to be brought vp, and re­maine in perpetuall bondage of ignorance and errour, in superstition and idolatrie.

The second point is, that fathers and mo­thers The second point. doe nourish and trayne vp their children in shamefastnesse, hatred of vice, and loue of all vertue.

They be charged by the fit Commande­ment, Deut. 6. 20. Exod. 12. 26. and 13. 14. The proper dutie of good parents to their children, is to nourish them soberly, to keepe them vnder obedi­ence, and to teach them good maners. to feed, to nourish, and to bring vp their children, to teach them the principles and seed of Christian religion, to see they learne the Ca­techisme, to teach them to praise God before and after meales, as also to teach them by little and little, and by often repetitions, to vnder­stand wherefore the Sacraments were institu­ted: to teach them manners, how to behaue themselues decently in their going, in their speaking, and gesture of their bodies: how to order themselues reuerently in the Church: how abroad in all places, and towards all men, i [...] all honest companies: and so to begin some conscience in them. For it were better for chil­dren to be vnborne, then vntaught.

Now contrarie to this, is, when parents suffer their children to haue their will from the be­ginning: when they discourage and daunt them by seueritie, and by being too hastie with [...]em: when they let the common ignorance of the word to be rooted in them, and haue no [...]re to frame them to learne trueth and godli­ [...]esse, and so to prepare them, to be apt to [Page 264] receiue profit from the publike Ministerie.

It is therefore meete for all fathers, and mo­thers, if they will haue ioy of their children, that Pro. 23. 13 and [...]9. 18. and 26. [...]5. 17. & 22. 6. [...]5. & 13. 24. then they correct them when they doe amisse, and keepe them in shamefastnesse, hatred of vice, and loue of all vertue, according as the holy Ghost counselleth by the mouth of the wise men in sundrie places.

For as the common Prouerbe is: Byrch brea­keth no bones, neither doth moderate correcti­on bring danger of death: but oftentimes it bridleth and keepeth backe the childe, that o­therwise would runne headlong into hell, and so is a meane to saue his soule.

For the fountaine of all vertue, and chiefe of all mans felicitie, is good instruction, and right bringing vp. And contrariwise, children euill brought vp, bring shame & great heart breake to their parents. As old Elie was corrected him­selfe, for nor correcting his sonnes, which is a 1. Sam. 2. 12. & [...]3. 12. 13. 14. and 4. 11. 1. King▪ 1. 5. 6. notable example, necessarie for all parents to imprint in their hearts, that they may see their children well taught and corrected, least they procure the wrath of God to fall vpon them, as did vpon this Elie, who honoured his children aboue the Lord, and therefore the Lord cut him and them off. For the comfort hee had of his sonnes, was this: the Arke (the witnesse of the Lords presence) was lost, thirtie thousand of the people slaine, his two sonnes Hop [...]i and Phinehas killed: himselfe when newes [Page 265] thereof came to him, for sorrow fell backe­ward and brake his necke: vpon this his daugh­ter in law fell in trauell, and in trauell died: the remnant of his house was glad to craue and begge for a small peece of siluer, and a morsell of bread.

Also the two and fortie children, that moc­ked 2. King. 2 23. 24. Elisha the Lords Prophet, saying, Come [...]p thou bald head, were rent in peeces with Beares. Thus we see that children vntaugh and vnchastised, bring shame and confusion to their parents.

Let them therefore alway remember this, that How children should be brought vp. they prouide and bestow diligent labour, that their children be forthwith instructed in vertue and godlinesse, whilest their wits are yet voyd from cares & vices, and whilst their age is ten­der Hold thy chil­dren in awe, and they shall haue thee in reuerence. and tractable, and their minds flexible, and readie to euery thing; for then they will keepe fast good lessons and vertuous precepts, if they be taught them. For this is certaine, that we re­member nothing so well when wee be old, as those things we learne in young yeeres.

It shall be conuenient and profitable there­fore to handle the waxe straight way while it is moyst: to season those earthen vessels with ve­ry good liquor whilst they are new: to dye and [...]e the wooll while it is faire and white, and Pro. 30. 25. & 6. 6. 7. [...]ot defiled with any spots. The Emmets, or P [...]smires are not taught to gather into their [...]oles or hillocks in Summer, whereby they [Page 266] should liue in winter. Bees learne not to make their cels, to gather iuyce, and to make honey: but all these things be done by instruction of nature. So euery liuing thing, the lesse meete it is to learning, so much the more it hath of natiue prudence. But man neither can eate, nor goe, nor speake, except he be taught. Then if fertile fields, for want of tillage waxe barren: if trees being neglected, either bring forth no fruit, or else the same vnsauourie, without di­ligence or grafting and pruning: if dogs be vn­meete to hunt, the horse and oxen vnapt to the plough, except mans diligence be put thereto: how vilde then and vnprofitable creatures would children become, except diligently and in due time they should be fashioned by good bringing vp? What a shame is this for any man to take great care to haue his dog well taught, his horse well broken, his land well husbanded, his house goodly trimmed, & richly furnished: and yet to haue his childe shamefully rude in maners, and altogether void of all garnishing and instruction of vertue and godlinesse? What a great folly and madnesse is this, for a father to take great care and thought how to get mony and possessions, and to haue no regard of his childe, for whom the same is gotten? This is no lesse shame to heare, then if a man taking thought for the shooe, would set nought by the foot: or with great care and studie would pro­uide, that there should be no fault in the childes [Page 267] [...]rment, not regarding the health of his body. This is (as the common saying is) to be penny­ [...]ise, and pound-foolish: to saue a sticke, and [...]rne a house: to saue a ioynt, and lose the bo­ [...]e. But oh vaine man, hast thou more care and [...]esire to leaue thy sonne faire buildings, and [...]ll of lands, then for to instruct him in the way [...]f godlinesse, and so leaue him a vertuous con­ [...]c [...]ence? Hast thou rather a desire to hoord vp Mat. 6. 19. [...]easure for him, with rust and moth to be con­ [...]i [...]ed, then to teach him the knowledge of. God, which will not canker, but last for aye? Most parents (a pittifull thing to remember) be [...]ing to the bodies of their children, but their [...]es they care not for: they desire their wel­ [...]e in this world, but they passe not what they [...]ll suffer in the world to come. Yea fathers [...]uide lands, rents, reuenues, great annuities, [...]es and offices, for their children here: but a­ [...], few prouide or be carefull to haue them [...]ught vp in vertue, and the feare of God. For [...] losse of their liues and bodies, they will sore [...]aile and much lament: but the health and [...]ation of their soules, they make no recko­ [...]ing of. If they see them poore and sicke, they [...]ow and sigh; but though they see them sin, [...]d greatly displease God, they are nothing [...]ued. It behooueth, that parents doe care­ [...]ly obserue, vnto what vices their children are [...]st inclined, and so by good meanes admo­ [...]h and draw them from the same. As [Page 268] parents be carefull to prouide temporall things for their childrens bodies, which are transitorie: so much more carefull ought they to be to pro­uide spiritual things for their soules. And as they be diligent to keep the bodies of their children from fire and water, when they be young: so much more they ought to take care, that their soules be not poysoned with vices, and false and erronious doctrine, when they come to yeares of discretion: and this is the most acceptable seruice that they can doe to God. Children are called the fruit of their parents. Therefore, as a Psal. 127. 3. Mat. 12. 33. good tree is knowne by bringing forth good fruit: so parents should shew their goodnes in the good education of their children, which are their fruit.

To teach a child in the trade of his way, as Salomon commandeth, Prou. 22. 6. is, not one­ly to instruct him vnto godlinesse, but also vn­to all other humaine duties: wherefore this du­tie then belongeth vnto parents, and they are bound to doe it. For who should teach and in­forme Reasons. the childe, but they which haue the go­uernment and commanding of him? But it is well knowne, that parents onely haue the go­nernment and commanding of their children, or such as they shall procure for their better e­ducation, and therefore this charge and dutie lieth vpon them, and they must look vnto it. A­gaine, this is apparant euen by the general law of nature, which hath taught the very bruite [Page 269] [...]sts to bring vp their young. And further, this [...]ie is yet enforced from the opportunitie of [...]e thing commanded. For euen as a plant will [...]ner take nourishment, and thriue better in [...]e soyle where it first grew or sprung vp, [...]en in any other ground, because it liketh his [...]ne soyle best: so children will sooner take [...]struction and good nourture from their pa­ [...]s, whom they best like, and from whom [...]y had their first being, then from any other: [...]d therefore you parents are in fault, if your [...]dren be not well taught. For whatsoeuer [...]d commeth from the parent to the child, is [...]all and kindly, no otherwise then the [...]me milke from the mothers dugge: you [...]ll sooner be heard of your children, then ei­ [...] the sage counsell of the ancient, or the for­ [...]le and mouing speech of the learned. Lastly, [...]e rule of iustice doth require, that euen as the [...] parent Adam, and so all other after him, [...]e beene a meane of falling to all their poste­ [...], Gen. 5. 3. in the begetting of children in their owne [...]ge, which according to the law of creation, [...]ld haue beene borne Gods Image: so now [...] [...]ew of this all parents should lend their [...]ds to lift them vp againe, & neuer cease, vn­ [...] they see in some measure, the beautie of the [...] Image, and the vertue of the second Adam. This is confirmed by many testimonies of Scrip­ [...]e, as amongst other these doe proue. Deut. [...] 9. and 11. 1 &. 19. Ephes. 6. 4. Psal. 78. 5. And [Page 270] because this dutie of parents, is many times committed to Schoolemasters, to Masters o [...] Families, to Dames, to Patrones, and Guardians, and such like: they must therefore vnder­stand, whosoeuer they be, that they are bound by the voyce of the almightie, to performe and to doe the dutie of parents, to all such as are committed to their charge, as if they were their owne children.

Now, the vices which some parents commit▪ in not performing these duties before and after named, and ought of them to bee eschued, are these.

1. First, the ignorance of the parents: as if they be so rude, that they be not able to teach their children then they greatly offend God in the breach of this so necessarie a dutie: and ther­fore they must indeuour to get so much nur­ture and knowledge, as that they may be able to instruct others vnder them.

2. The second vice is, the prophannesse of many parents, who, so they may prouide liue­lihood and necessaries for their children, they care for no more.

3. The third vice is committed of such poore parents, which make no great choise with what Maisters and Dames they place their children, so they may haue meate and drinke inough, and wages thereto competent, and are neither back-beaten, nor belly beaten, as they say. Alas, such poore children, while they serue [Page 271] [...] their bellies, they may loose their soules, [...]cause they want godly masters and dames to [...]e them wholesome instruction, to hold them by good example, and to gouerne them con­ [...]ally in the feare of the Lord. Wherefore [...]e let all Parents learne, that it is their dutie to [...]ke chose of such masters and dames for their [...]ldren, as are godly and religious, wise hear­ [...], such as are both able and well disposed, to [...]ne vp youth in all good nurture, and Gods [...]ce: and not onely this (for the greatest care [...] all lieth vpon the parents) but also they must [...] often as conueniently they may, repaire vnto [...]m, and see how they profit, and holde them [...] by their good counsell, and be carefull to [...]rea [...]e those which haue the gouernment of [...]m, to be good vnto them, in this chiefe point [...]e the rest. For (as Salomon saith:) Life and Pro. 18. 21. [...]ch is in the power of the tongue: so we may wel [...], life & death is in the education of our chil­ [...]. If they be well brought vp, it shall be life [...]o them: but if it be otherwise, they are trai­ [...]l vp to euerlasting death.

4. The fourth vice is, the fault of many ma­ [...]s and dames, who make no further recko­ [...]g of their seruants, then they do of their bruit [...]sts. For so long as their worke and businesse [...]ewell done by them, they care for no more, [...]d they will teach them no further, then may [...]e for their owne turne and benefit: that is, [...] be a profitable seruant vnto them. Such [Page 272] maisters make their seruants drudges to the world and the diuell: and the life of such youth dieth while it shooteth vp. All these sin & tres­passe against the will and word of God, because they are contrary to good nurture and godly instruction. Parents must be very carefull that their children may learne some occupation, or profession of life: and this is either mechanicall, which we call handicraft: or liberall, which is the learning of schooles: and the end of this is, eyther to get their liuing honestly, and in Gods ordinance, or else if they want no maintenance, to apply their profession and trade to the be­nefit of the Common-wealth. No childe of what birth or stock soeuer he be, ought to want this instruction and bringing vp. If thou say, my childe hath no need of any trade: yet the common-wealth and Gods Church, hath need of him: for no man is borne for himselfe, but his friends will require one part, his kindred ano­ther, and his country the third. And if handi­crafts like thee not, thou hast the liberall Scien­ces, of which no man euer was yet ashamed, but many haue made them their crowne of glo­ry. Saul was annointed king, while he was see­king 1 Sam. 9. 2. &c. and 16. 11. Psal. 78. 70. 71. 1. King. 19. 19. Amos. 1. 1. 2. his fathers Asses: and Dauid was taken from the sheepefolde, to feede with his wise­dome, and gouerne with his prudence that ho­nourable people of the children of Israel. And againe, wee reade that those two famous Pro­phets, Elisha and Amos, the one was called [Page 273] [...]om the plough, and the other from keeping [...]f beasts: which examples doe plainly teach vs [...]at the great and reuerent God despiseth no [...]onest trade of life, be it neuer so meane, but [...]owneth it with his blessing, to draw all good [...]indes to his holy ordinance. But now a daies, [...]ch is the pride of our hearts (a thing to be la­ [...]ented through all our land) that many gen­ [...]emens children may not be brought vp in any [...]de. Oh it is too base and beggerly for them: [...]em must liue of their lands, they must main­ [...]ne their gentrie: a small learning will serue [...]eir turne: but in the meane while this ordi­ [...]nce of God is neglected, what miserie from [...]ce ensueth? Who are the wasters of patri­ [...]onies? Who are the robbers and rouers in [...]e Common-wealth? who are the deflowrers [...] maidens? Who are the defilers of matrones? [...]ho are the corrupters of youth? and to speake [...] one word, who are the seedes-men of all mis­ [...]iefe in our countrie, but these children of [...]tlemen, who haue not been taught and trai­ [...]d vp in learning, or some occupation, while [...]ey were young? For euen as a weed, if it grow [...]ancke soyle, will waxe out of measure noy­ [...]me: so these children comming of honorable [...]d worshipful parents, brought vp in ease, and [...]mpered with the delights of gentrie, they [...]e immeasurably vicious, and who may [...]pe them vnder? neither lawes, nor Magi­ [...]es, nor any other good meane.

First, Parents must teach their children to Good man­ners in speech. vse faire speech, not onely towards themselues, but also towards others, and to call their betters by a reuerent and an honourable name: 1. Sam. 25. 24. Mar. 10. 17. Pro. 16. 24.

Secondly, to speake modestly and humbly of themselues, and this point of good manners they may learne of that wise matrone Abigail, in 1. Sam. 25. 41. where we reade, that when she was sent for of Dauid, to be his wife, she first bo­wed her selfe to the seruants, and then made this lowly answere to him that brought the mes­sage: Behold, let thine Handmaide be seruant to wash the feete of the seruants of my Lord.

Thirdly, to admonish them, louingly to sa­lute their friends and acquaintaince, and gene­nerally all others, whom they take to be christi­ans and brethren: which consisteth in praying well to others, wishing health and prosperitie vnto them: Luke 1. 28. 40. 1. King. 1. 37.

Fourthly, to put them in minde, to acknow­ledge a benefit, where they haue receiued it, with giuing of thankes.

Fiftly, to teach them to confesse an offence where it is committed, with humble crauing of pardon, And example hereof, they may haue in that vertuous and faire spoken matrone Abigail, as they may reade in 1. Sam. 25. 23. &c. Oh that men and children saw what great dangers they draw vpon them by the neglect of this dutie, and might preuent it▪ and also what [Page 275] gratious blessings they might procure both to themselues and others, by meanes of it, as this vertuous Abigail kept Dauid from shedding innocent blood: saued her owne life, with the [...]es of her familie, and in the end was receiued to be a Princes wife, for the wise carriage of her selfe in this matter.

Againe, Parents must teach their children good manners, and ciuill behauiour, to rise vp [...] their betters, to vncouer the head, to make obeysance, to be courteous towards their e­quals, to be gentle and lowlie to their inferi­ [...]rs, and louing and kinde to all: this is no lesse needefull for youth, then their meate and their drinke.

Also to admonish them, to giue their elders [...]d betters leaue to speake before them: Iob. [...]. 45. That they keepe silence while their bet­ [...]s are in place, vntill they be spoken vnto: and [...]en they must make answere in few words, [...]thout vnnecessarie circumstances, and direct­ [...] vnto the matter. And they may not be loude, [...]ling, or hot in speech, but colde and milde: [...]ouerb. 17. Warne them, that they doe not [...]errupt or trouble others while they are in [...]eaking. Prou. 29. 20. Wherefore, if children [...] keep the bounds of good maners, they must [...] be streperous or troublesome in talke, but [...]ey must obserue and take their due time and [...]se, and if there be any thing spoken vnto [...]ich they would willingly make answere, [Page 276] they must either courteouslie craue leaue of him that speaketh, or else they must carrie it in remembrance, vntill their turne commeth to speake, which is the better of the twaine. And further, they must giue an entercourse of speech vnto others: and so suffer others to speake by them; for there is a time to keepe silence, and so to heare others speaking, for he that will haue all the talke, passeth the bounds of good man­ners.

Moreouer, Parents ought to teach their chil­dren, how to frame their gestures to a reuerent Good man­ners in gesture. and dutifull behauiour towards others: which consisteth in these points.

1. The first is to meete those that are com­ming towards them. And of this they haue an example in holy Abraham, Gen. 18. 2. where it is said: And he lifted vp his eyes and looked, and loe, three men stood by him, and when he saw them, he ranne to meete them from the tent doore. A­gaine, another example they may haue in King Salomon, sitting vpon his regall throne: 1. King. 2. 19. Bathsheba therefore went to King Salo­mon, to speake vnto him for Adoniah, and the King rose to meete her.

2. The second is, to rise vp to elders and betters when they passe by them. And this is taught Leuit. 19. 23. Thou shalt rise vp before the hoare head, and honour the person of the olde man, and dread thy God: I am the Lord. But heere wee must warne you of a great abuse, [Page 277] which for the most part is committed in all Churches, and which tendeth to the high dis­honour of God: which is this, that neither you your selues, neither your children, nor seruants, doe know the time of your duties, but you will then rise vp to men, when both you and they should kneele downe to God: as if one that is more honourable among you, shall come into the Church, while you are vpon your knees in prayer vnto God, presently you start vp, and leaue God, to reuerence men. Is this religion? is this deuotion becomming Gods house? is not this all one, as if a man should say, stay GOD heere comes in my father, my master, my wor­shipfull neighbour, and my good friend, to whom I am much beholden, I must doe my dutie vnto him, I must rise vp till hee be past, and then I will come to thee againe? What is this but to preferre men before GOD? this doing plainely sheweth, that such are louers of men, more then God: and that such as take this dutie and reuerence vpon them, are rob­bers of Gods honour, and they shall answere him for it.

Is there no time to shew our dutie towards men; but euen then when wee are about Gods seruice? Why, know thou, when man [...]andeth before God, how honourable so e­uer he be, hee is but dung and filth, and not to be regarded in comparison of him. And let Parents learne this wisedome, that while [Page 278] they are taught their duties towards men, it is not to rob God of his worship: but there is an appoynted time to euery dutie and purpose: as Ecclesiastes in his third Chapter well admoni­sheth: To all things there is an appointed time, and a time to euery purpose vnder the heauen. It is re­corded [...]cles. 3. 1. of Leuie, to his eternall praise: Deut. 33. 9. that in Gods cause he said of his father and mother: I see him not, neither knew he his bre­thren, nor his owne children: euen so beloued, our eyes and our minds, and deuotions, should be so fixed and intent vpon God, when we are in his seruice, that we should not see or regard any man in that while, And againe, we reade in the second Chapter of the Gospel after S. Iohn, of our Sauiour himselfe, who though hee was the most dutifull childe that euer was borne of woman, yet when he was about his fathers bu­sinesse, he saith vnto his mother: Woman, what [...]ohn. 2. 4. haue I to doe with thee? which examples will teach vs, that when we are about Gods seruice, all other duties must sleepe and be laid a part.

3. The third dutie of good manners to be obserued in their gesture, is to stand while their betters are sitting in place: example of this wee haue in holy Abraham, of his enter­tainning of the two strangers, as it is written. Gen. 18. 8. And he tooke butter and milke, and the Calfe which hee had prepared, and set before them and stood by himselfe vnder the tree, and they did eate. Well may Abraham be called the father [Page 279] of the faithfull, for giuing his children so good example.

4. Their fourth dutie, is to bend the knee, in token of humilitie and subiection: example of this, 1. King. 2. 19.

5. The fift thing is, that they giue the chiefe place to their betters, and to offer the same to others in courtesie. 1. King. 2. 19. Luke. 14. 8. 9. 10. Pro. 15. 33. and 16. 18.

6. Their last dutie is, to vncouer their head. And though wee finde no example for this in holy scripture, as being not vsed in those for­mer times: yet seeing the thing is eiuill and comely, and one of the speciall courtesies of our daies, we will confirme it also with the au­thoritie of Gods word: Phil. 4. 8. Whatsoeuer things are honest, whatsoeuer things are of good report, those things do. And again. 1, Cor. 14. 40. Let all things be done decently, and according to [...]der. Now this kind of ciuilitie, is both decent and according to order, as also honest, and of good report: and therefore warranted and commended by Gods word, and so worthy to be followed.

Therefore if our children be not thus [...]ned vp in nurture, while they be young, then they be old they shall be found so head- [...]ong, and they will not be gouerned, but this [...]nsequent must needes follow, that all order [...]hall be taken away, and then confusion must [...]eedes ensue.

For if nurture be neglected, then our el­ders and gouernours shall not be reuerenced; if they be not reuerenced, they will not be regarded: if they be not regarded, they will not be obeyed: and if they be not obeyed, then steps in rebellion, and euerie one will doe what hee listeth.

These vices and great abuses, are to be re­formed, and with speede amended, not onely of many parents and masters themselues, but also that they labour with all diligence, that they may be redressed and amended in their children and seruants: first, the grosse ignorance in the grounds of Christian Religion, which yet re­maineth in any Parents, Masters, and their fa­milies, who giue themselues to sleepe in the Church, to talke one with another, to turne o­uer their bookes there, and vsing of their owne priuate deuotions or praiers, in the time of pub­like preaching and prayer, all which no doubt are grieuous sinnes and transgressions: and be­sides many absent themselues from holy exerci­ses, and specially vpon the Lords day, then ly­ing in their beds, haunting of Ale-houses and Tauernes, riding and going abroad about their worldly affaires, for pleasure and profit, being also wearie whilst they be present at prayers and preaching, seldom do they preuent or come be­fore prayers, nay many come in the midst there­of, to the great disturbance of the same, and o­thers that are there: and some againe before the [Page 281] Sermons are ended: other some after the prayers made, and before the singing of the Psalmes, and the vsuall blessing to be pronounced, depart thence, whereof they as well as those that tarrie should be partakers, posting also our of the Church, as it were from a play, or may-game, as though they supposed that no more reuerence should be shewed there, then in other places or that some part of diuine seruice belonged vnto them, and not vnto other some, whereas in very truth, euerie one ought to be a like partakers of the whole.

And how should wee looke for any good­nesse from God, where this, that is the seede of [...] sin, and the nurse of all abhominations raig­ [...]eth and swaieth so much?

Let such as are fathers and mothers, and [...]aue children, know in what sort they must be [...]refull for them. Their children are the good [...]essings of God, they be members of the body [...]f Christ, & the sonnes of God. The kingdome [...] heauen belongeth to them. God hath apoin­ [...]d Mat. 18. 10. his Angels to guide and leade them, and to [...]eld them from euill: and their Angels be in [...]e presence of God, and do behold the face of [...]eir father which is in heauen. They be fresh [...]ants of the Church. Who knoweth what ne­ [...]ssary instruments they may be in the house of [...]od? It is not inough to feede them, to cloath [...]em, & to nourish their bodies with necessarie [...]stenance.

For the heathen doe this, which know not God: and the sauage and bruite beasts, and the birdes, which haue no vnderstanding, they breed vp their young ones, and are tender and painfull to prouide for them. The Asse though she be dul, the Beare and Lion, though they be wilde and cruell, yet seeke they far and neare to get wherewith to help their young. There­fore, if there be any, or can be any, which doth forsake and leaue his owne, hee is more beastly then the foolish Asse, and more vnnaturall, then most cruell Beares and Lions, and Tigers.

But in this behalfe, men are for the most part ouer carefull. For this cause many builde their houses with blood, and seeke possessions by iniquitie: they ioyne house to house, and field to field, and will dwell alone vpon the earth: they oppresse the poore and needie, and doe wrong Esay. 5. 8. to the Widdow and the fatherlesse: they make money their God, and spoyle one another: and all to prouide for their children. This is the couer and cloake for all their mischiefes, they may not leaue their children vnprouided for. Vnhappie are such fathers: which in this sort care for their children, by the ruine and spoyle Esay. 24. 1. of the needie and innocent, and so breake the commandements of God: because their portion shall be with the wicked in the lake that burneth with fire and brimstone. And vnhappy are their children, because they are partakers of their Fathers wickednesse, and [Page 283] therefore shall also be partakers of punishment with them.

The Prophet Dauid saith: I haue seene the wicked strong, and spreading himselfe like a greene Psal. 37. 35. 36. Bay-tree: Yet hee passed away, and loe, hee was [...]e, and I sought him, but he could not be found. His roote was deepe, his stocke strong, his branches broad, hee spread ouer and shado­wed the whole countrie: yet hee passed away: he departed, his sonnes died, his house soone decayed, and his name was in little time quite [...]gotten.

Oh, how much better then is it, to furnish the mindes of our children, and to instruct them in godlines, to teach them to know God, [...] leade their life vertuously, and to rebuke [...]em, and chastise them for ill doing?

The beginning of wisedome, is the feare of Psal. 111. 10. Pro. 9. 10. God. Let them then learne, what that good and acceptable will of God is. Shew them the way in which they shuld walke, that they go neither [...] the right hand, nor to the left. The word of God is pure, and giueth vnderstanding to the Psal. 19 7. 8. 6. and 119. 6. 105. [...]mple: it is a light to their footesteps: it teach­ [...] those, that are young to amend their waies. for children by nature are darkenesse, and can­not see except they be lightned with Gods [...]ord.

And therefore Salomon saith: Catechise a Pro. 22. 6. childe in his youth, and he will remember it when [...] is old. This is the right blessing, when fathers [Page 284] and mothers giue to their children, when they cause God to blesse them too.

When Christ came into Ierusalem the young Mat. 21. 15. 16. children receiued him: They cried, Osanna to the sonne of Dauid; Blessed is he that commeth in the name of the Lord. Christ giueth witnes of them: By the mouth of babes and sucklings, hast thou set Psal. 82. forth thy praise. The words of the little and sim­ple children, were able to confound the wise­dome of the Pharises. Thus were they taught from their cradle, so carefull were their godly parents for them.

Contrariwise, they cannot haue any wise­dome, that dispise the law of the Lord. They become blinde and wicked, and abhominable in all their waies. They haue no sence nor fee­ling of the will of God. They cannot know light from darknes, nor God from Belial. Such were the children that derided Elisha, as also 2. King. 2. 13. 2. Sam. 16. 1. &c. Absolon, whose heart Sathan had so possessed with the spirit of pride and ambition, that hee went about to depose his father from his king­dome. So also his brother Adonijah vsurped the kingdome of his father Dauid. 1. King. 1. 5.

Another care, which a father ought to haue of his children, is to traine them vp in study and vertue, and of a godly life. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. They which keepe Mat. 5. 8. not this way, are the children of wrath. Herein standeth the whole profession of a Christian life. For God hath not called vs to vncleannesse, but [...]. Thess. 4. 7. [Page 285] [...]o holinesse. This is the will of God, and this our promise made vnto him, that wee serue [...] in holinesse and righteousnesse all the daies [...] our life, that we increase in vertue, and grow Luke 1. 74. 75. [...] grace to grace.

A wise and louing father which sendeth his [...]e to a dangerous iourney, eyther by sea or [...]d: first instructeth him with aduise, and tel­ [...] him in what sort hee shall auoyde perils. [...]ke heede (saith he) the way is dangerous, [...]ich thou must passe. The sea is terrible, the [...]es rise vp as high as heauen, and by and by, [...] shalt see a pit as lowe as hell. The sands [...]y swallow thee, the rockes may destroy thee. [...]hou shalt passe by huge mountaines, and [...]gh a wildernesse, where theeues will as­ [...] thee. Thy heart will quake. Thou shalt [...]e for succour, and find no man to help thee. [...] these and these places hath many a good [...]ns childe bin cast away. O take heed (my son) [...] art the staffe, and the comfort of mine age. [...]ght come to thee otherwise then well, I [...]all soone end my daies in sorrow.

If a father be thus carefull that his childe [...]uld escape worldly dangers, hee must be [...]efull of spirituall dangers, in which who so­ [...] is lost, is lost for euer. Therefore, thus, or to [...] effect, will he say to him: Oh my sonne vn­ [...]stand what God hath done for thy sake. [...]ke heed to thy selfe. The world is all ouer­ [...]wde 1. Pet. 5. 8. Iam. 4. 7. Pro. 18. 10. with snares. The diuell raungeth and [Page 286] seeketh whom he may deuoure. Giue no ground to him, but resist him, and hee will flie from Psal. 50. 15. thee. Be strong in faith. The name of the Lord is a strong tower of defence. Call vpon him in the day of thy trouble, and he will deliuer thee. He will giue thee of his spirit. Take heed my sonne, and be not deceiued, let no wilfulnesse cast thee away. If sinners intice thee be not a companion of them in wickednesse. Fashion Pro. 1. 10. 11. Rom. 12. 2. 1. Iohn. 2. 15. not thy selfe to the likenesse of this world: for the world passeth away, and the lust thereof. He that loueth this world, the loue of God is not in him. Be not like vnto them that perish. Thou wast conceiued and borne in sin. Thou Psal. 51. 5. Ephes. 2. 3. Col. 1. 12. 13. art by nature the child of wrath: but God made thee meete to be partaker of the inhetitance of the Saints in light, and hath deliuered thee from the power of darknes: and hath translated thee into the kingdome of his deare sonne Receiue not this grace in vaine; but cast away the works 2. Cor. 6. 1. Rom. 13. 12. of darknesse, and put on the armour of light. Be renued in thy heart, and in thy spirit, that it may appeare I haue bin carefull for thee. Thus a carefull father seeketh to traine vp his sonne, and to nurture him.

Now there be some neeessarie meanes and helpes, whereby godly parents may the more effectually and vertuously bring vp their chil­dren according to the directions before spoken of, as these:

First, not to suffer their children, and youth to [Page 287] [...]aue their owne will. For Salomon saith, Prou. [...]1. 20. They that are of a froward heart, are ab­ [...]ination vnto the Lord. And againe, in the 29. Chapter, verse. 15. A childe set at libertie, ma­ [...] his mother ashamed. But what will some be [...]die to answere in this case? Oh hee may be [...]ken of that time enough afterwards. But [...]hat saith the wiseman, Eccles. 25. 27. Giue no [...]age to the waters, no not a little. The heart of [...] childe is as the violent waters. And as those [...]ich haue experience in keeping and repai­ [...]g the sea banks, can easily tell vs, that if the [...]ing waues should be suffered to breake ouer [...] one tide, they should hardly in many daies [...]er it againe: so if thou sufferest thy childes [...]fections to haue the full swinge and course, [...] but a small season, thou shalt hardly or ne­ [...] againe winne this breach.

2. The second meanes is, moderation in [...], not to pamper children with too much [...]t, or that which is delicate, but to giue them [...]t which is holesome and sufficient, and no [...]e. For excesse breedeth diseases, both in [...]die and minde, maketh them gluttons and [...]nkards, consumers of patrimonie, and this [...]e draweth a thousand more with it: and e­ [...] as the fattest soile bringeth forth the ran­ [...]t weeds, so pampered children brought vp [...]hout due gouernment and discipline, thrust [...]th the greatest and most ouergrowne vices.

3. The third help is, not to cloth them [Page 288] with costly apparrell, or to attire them with new fashions. For this againe is contrarie to the nature of paines and labour, and stirreth vp pride. For euen as soft flaxe is soone on fire so youthfull nature will soone be inflamed with this vice, as lamentable experience too much teacheth at this day. For, from whence commeth this disguised and monstrous appar­rell, but from wanton and dissolute education of youth? This is the speciall sinne of England, and if any thing be the ouerthrow of it (which God for his mercie turne away) it will be this: the land is too heauie of this sin. For the pride of all nations, and the follies of all countries are vpon vs, how should wee long beare them? How art thou fallen from heauen, O Lucifer, sonne Esay. 14. 12. Zeph. 1. 8. of the morning? And it shall be in the day of the Lords sacrifice, that I will visit the Princes, and the Kings children, and all such as are clothed with strange apparrell.

4. The fourth help is reprehension, or chi­ding. And this is taught. Prou. 29. 15. The red, and correction giue wisedome. Whereby the rod, is vnderstood chastisement, and by corre­ction is vnderstood, chiding or reprehension. The want of this help was the vtter spoyle and vndoing of Adoniiah, as may be seene, 1. King. 1. & 2. chapters. And here we cannot but iustly find fault with most parents, who though they be somewhat carefull for their children while they be tender: yet when they be come to some [Page 289] [...]eares of discretion, as to fifteene or sixteene, [...]hich time is most fit for reprehension, be­cause then by all reason it should soonest enter; [...]nd which time againe is most dangerous, be­cause then our affections are most strong in vs) [...]h then they be growne to mens and womens [...]ate, they may not be reprehended, they may [...]t be disgraced. But know thou, oh wise pa­ [...]t, that so long as thou hast a child, so long [...]ou art a parent: and so long as thou art a fa­ [...]er, so long thou must carry a fatherly autho­ [...]e and power ouer him.

5 The fift help, is chastisement, and it may [...]ell be called a help, because where reprehen­ [...]n will not serue, that must help: and this [...]st be vsed in order and method, as the skil­ [...]ll Phisition will not giue his strong & bitter [...]l before his preparatiue, lest the working of [...] should be hindered by the stubborne and in­ [...]ra [...]e obstructions: so the wise parent in cu­ [...]ng his sonnes vices, must not strike before he [...]th reprehended or preadmonished: least ei­ [...]er he be too much cast downe and discoura­ [...]d, or waxe obstinate. This kind of physicke, [...] it is more strong then the former, so it hath a [...]ore forcible and excellent working. For great [...] the godlinesse in that seueritie, by which the [...]wer of sinning is taken away. And againe, [...]mon in the 22. of the Prouerbes, verse 15. [...]ith more worthily: Foolishnesse is bound in [...]e heart of a childe, but the rod of correction [Page 290] shall driue it away, And againe in the 13. chap­ter, verse. 24. Hee which spareth the rod, hateth his sonne: that is, hee is an enemie vnto him. Wherefore know thou this, O thou father, that when thou seest thy sonne dangerously sicke with the disease of sinne, and doest not vse this help and remedie, which God in his holy word hath prescribed vnto thee, thou art accessarie to thy childs death, as an enimie, and his blood shall be required at thy hands: because where thou mightest haue saued him, thou hast wil­fully cast him away. For Gods loue (good pa­rents) looke to your children.

Oh that parents had lesse carnall affection, and more wisedome: for euery parent is blind in his owne children.

Oh, is it not a pitifull thing, that parents should themselues make graues for their owne children, & burie them quicke without all com­passion, and thinke they doe well in it? And is it not a follie aboue all follies, that while the pa­rent layeth his hand vpon his childs mouth, to keepe away the colde winde, hee presseth it downe so hard, that hee strangleth him there­with? Thus many a father and mother in the world, haue killed their deare ones by their in­ordinate loue and cockering of them, and thus many poore infants must stil be murthered, be­cause parents will not be warned.

Parents are bound by the law of nature to loue their children: for what a crueltie were it, [Page 291] not to loue them that they haue begotten and borne? But yet wisedome requireth, that they somewhat dissemble and hide their loue specially to those children that be of some rea­sonable discretion) lest they should take bold­nesse thereupon to doe what they list.

For if we well consider of mans nature, [...]at it is euill euen from his birth, we shall then Gen. 6. 5. and 8. 21. [...]de the yong child which lieth in the cradle, Mat. 15. 19. [...] be both wayward, and full of affections: and [...]ough his bodie be but small, yet hee hath a [...]eat heart, and is altogether inclined to euill: [...]d the more he waxeth in reason by yeeres, [...]e more he groweth proud, froward, wilfull, [...]uly and disobedient. If this sparkle be suffe­ [...]d to increase, it will rage ouer, and burne [...]wne the whole house. For wee are changed [...]d become good, not by birth, but by edu­ [...]ion.

For like as planting and carefulnesse hath [...]at power in all growing things: euen so [...]h Education greater vertue and strength: [...], and better fruit in the diligent bringing [...] of children.

Therefore parents must be warie and cir­ [...]spect, that they neuer smile or laugh at [...]y words or deedes of their children, done [...]dly, vnhonestly, naughtily, wantonly, or [...]amefully, nor to kisse or commend them for [...] doing. For children will commonly accu­ [...]e themselues vnto such things, as they [Page 292] shall see and perceiue to be pleasing and delightfull to their father and mother. There­fore they must correct, and sharply reproue their children, for saying or doing ill, and make it knowne vnto them, that they be neither well pleased, nor contented with their so doing, but that it greatly disliketh them. And again, on the other side, let them kisse and make much of them, whensoeuer they shall see or heare them doe any thing that is a signe of goodnesse.

But such is the fond and too much cocke­ring affection of some parents towards their children, that there is more need in these daies, to teach and admonish them not to loue them too much, then to perswade them to loue them. For Dauids darling, was Dauids traytor.

And this is the manner of God, and his iust 2. Sam. 15. all and 18. 35. iudgement, that when any father or mother begins (as it were) to set their childe, or any thing else, in the roome of God, and so loue the same aboue him which gaue it, either to take away the child, or the thing, or else to take a­way the parents, before they prouoke him too much. For as the Ape doth with too much em­bracing well neere kill her young whelpes: so likewise, some vndiscreet parents, through im­moderate loue and ouer-much pampering and cherishing, doe vtterly spoile and marre their children.

Therefore, if parents would haue their children liue, they must take heede that they [Page 293] [...]oue them not too much: for the giuer is [...]spleased, when the gift is more esteemed then [...]e.

We may see by experience, how that many Ill bringing vp is a cause of marring many which are of a good toward­nesse and wit. [...]ildren of good wit and towardnesse, are mar­ [...]d and spoyled for want of good education, [...]nd so get those vices from their tender yeeres, [...]hich all their life after doe for the most part [...]company them.

For when parents doe either too much [...]cker their children, or by their lewd exam­ [...]e allure to naughtinesse, or neglect due in­ [...]ction: what other thing (I pray you) can [...]e to passe, then which wee see in trees, [...]ich from the beginning being neglected, [...]come crooked and vnfruitfull?

Contrariwise, they that are pruned, erected, [...]dered and watered with the hand and cun­ [...]ng of the Husbandman, are made straight, [...]ile, and fruitfull. So that the manner of life, [...]cation and custome, are of great impor­ [...]ce to moue to vertue.

What a great follie is it in Parents, to toyle [...]emselues and be occupied in getting riches, [...]d to be nothing carefull for their children, [...] whose sake riches are gotten? Assuredly [...]e can none more precious and better he­ [...]ge be left vnto children, then if they be well [...]d vertuously brought vp from their tender [...]e, and be rightly instructed vnto vertue from [...]r infancie. This patrimonie remaineth with [Page 294] them continually, nothing at all subiect to the Two things which much hinder good education. stormes and troubles of fortune. But we see two speciall causes, why some parents do more negligently prouide that their children be in­structed: to wit, too much cockering, and nig­gardship.

In cockering, mothers doe more often of­fend, and especially those which haue but few children.

These doe like as if some Husband-man should refuse to til his fielde, because he hath but one only. Who could suffer this mans folly and peruersenesse of iudgement?

Is it not much more to be tilled, because it is onely one?

Yes verily, that so the profit and increase of one, may recompence the want of many: euen so, after the same sort we iudge it to be the du­tie of mothers, so much more diligently to bring vp their children, by how much they are fewer.

But wee see what doth let mothers, that they loue their children more deerely, then that The fewer the children, the more diligent­ly to be cared for, that they he well brought vp. they can suffer them to be an houre out of their sight: but this is cruell loue, so to loue their chil­dren, that they should be as it were giuen o­uer of their mothers vnto all naughtinesse: of which peruerse and cruell loue, not a few shall suffer the iust punishment, which with great griefe of minde, and with teares shall be com­pelled to see the vnbridled wantonnesse and [Page 195] [...]ngratiousnesse of their children, vnto which [...]hey doe now, all too late, goe about to pro­ [...]de a remedie.

On the other side, niggardship is oftentimes The second cause which hindereth good educa­tion. [...]eater, then that parents will not bestow the [...]st.

Whatsoeuer is spent vpon horse-keepers, [...] horse-breakers, fooles, minstrels, dogges, [...]kes, &c. that, some thinke, well bestowed: [...] if they see any thing to be spent about in­ [...]cting their children, they thinke all ill be­ [...]wed, and are much more carefull that an [...]se be well framed to vauting and leaping, [...]en that their childe be well instructed to [...]tue.

This inconuenience commeth to the minds [...]f children, if they be not well brought vp, that [...]ey become seruile, and lie open to all sinne [...]d naughtinesse.

For if a man leaue his field vntilled, he shall [...]d it to haue brought forth fearne & thistles, [...]d such vnprofitable weedes: after the same [...]t, if he shall leaue the wits of his children vn­ [...]ked vnto, and vnexercised, he shall be sure [...] reape most aboundant fruite of wantonnesse [...]d vngratiousnesse.

The holy Ghost speaking in the Scriptures [...]f foolish sonnes, as that he that begetteth such [...]e, getteth himselfe sorrow, and that the fa­ [...]er of a foole hath no ioy: Prou. 17. 21. mea­ [...]h it not so much of naturall fooles or idiots, [Page 296] and such as are destitute of common reason (although it is true, that is a lamentable iudge­ment of God, and a heauinesse to the parents of such a childe) as of wicked children, such as either are ignorant in the word, or not know­ing how order one right steppe to the King­dome of God: or else hauing some knowledge, abuse it to maintaine their carnall Ius [...]es and appetite.

For this cause, as it would grieue parents to haue naturall fooles to their children, or such as either in some imperfection of nature are dismembred, or deformed, and misfigured in the parts of their bodie: so much more should it grieue them to haue such children, as either for want of knowledge and heauenly wise­dome, cannot walke in the feare of God; or a­busing the knowledge giuen them, prostitute and giue themselues to all sinne and wicked­nesse.

It is marueilous how greatly parents can be­waile the want of one naturall gift, proceeding of some imperfection, and how easily they can passe ouer without any griefe, the want of all spirituall graces, springing from corrupt edu­cation.

In like manner is it strange, that men can take the matter so heauily, when their children breake into such offences, as either haue open shame, or ciuill punishment following them: and yet can make no bones, but passe ouer such [Page 297] [...]ins as are against the maiestie of God, ac­companied with euerlasting confusion, and [...]nspeakeable torments?

Wherein what doth the most part of men [...]wray, but their great hipocrisie, in that nei­ [...]er their ioy, nor their griefe is sound to their children, and that they loue themselues more [...]n their children, then either their saluation, [...] the glorie of God: the tender loue and care [...]hereof (no doubt) did increase the sorrow of 2. Sam. 18. 33. Dauid, for the death of his sonne Absolon: who [...]s not so much grieued for the losse of a son, [...]s for that vntimely end of his sonne, to whom [...]e time of repentance for his saluation, and [...]e glory of God, was denied: which happily, if [...]e had liued, his father Dauid might haue re­ioyced in.

Let Parents therefore learne to correct [...]eir affections to their children, and be grie­ [...]d for their ignorance, impietie, and sinnes; [...]hereof either their carnall copulation, the not [...]menting of their naturall corruption, the want [...]f prayer and holy seede, or prophane educa­ [...]on, armed with the wrath of God, may be a [...]ost iust occasion.

Can parents hope for a holy posteritie? or doe they maruell if the Lord crosse them in the children of their bodies, when they make as [...]old and brutish an entrance into that holy [...]dinance of the Lord, as is the meeting of the neighing horse with his mate? when being [Page 298] ioyned in that honourable estate of matrimony, either as meere naturall men, without all knowledge of God, they beget their children: or as too carnall men without the feare and reuerence of the Lord, neither bewailing their corruptions which they receiued of their an­cestrie, nor praying against their infirmities, which may descend to their posteritie, they a­buse the marriage bed.

Lastly, when hauing receiued the fruit of the wombe, they haue no care, by good and vertuous bringing vp, to offer it to the Lord, that their childe by carnall generation, may be the childe of God by spirituall regene­ration?

Surely no: and yet men looking vp to God his prouidence and secret counsell, without all bethinking themselues of their corrupt gene­ration, from which their children are descen­ded, without all looking backe into their wic­ked and godlesse bringing of them vp, wil fret against their sinnes, fume against their children: yea, often they will correct them, and that to serue their owne corruptions, not so much grie­ued for that they haue sinned against God, as that they haue offended them.

Christians therefore must know, that when men and women raging with boyling lust, meete together as brute beasts, hauing no o­ther respect then to satisfie their owne carnall concupiscence, when they make no conscience [Page 299] [...] sanctifie the marriage bed with prayer, when they haue no care to increase the Church [...]f Christ, and the number of the elect, it is [...]e iust iudgement of God to send them either [...]onsters, or naturall fooles, or else such as ha­ [...]ing good gifts of the minde, and well propor­ [...]oned bodies, are most wicked, gracelesse, and prophane persons.

Againe on the contrarie, wee shall finde in [...]e word of God, that noble and notable men [...]mmended vnto vs, for rare examples of ver­ [...]e and godlinesse, were children asked and [...]tained of God by prayer.

Our first parents Adam and Eue, be­ [...] Gen. 4. 2. 25. humbled after the birth of their wic­ [...] sonne Caine, obtained a righteous Abell: [...]f whom, when by his bloodie brother [...]ey were bereft, they receiued that holy man [...].

Abraham; begetting in the flesh, had a Gen. 21. 2. [...]sed sonne Ismael, but waiting by faith for the [...]mplishment of God his couenant, he ob­ [...]ed a blessed Isaack.

Iacob not content with one wife, according Gen. 30. 24. [...] the ordinance of God, was punished in his [...]ldren: yet afterward being humbled, hee re­ [...]ed faithfull Ioseph.

Elkana and Hannah, praying and being cast 1. Sam. 2. 9. [...]ne, had a Samuel, that did minister before [...]e Lord.

Dauid and Bathsheba lamenting their sinnes, 2. Sam. 22 24. [Page 300] obtained Salomon, a man of excellent wise­dome. 2. Sam. 22. 24.

Zacharia and Elizabeth fearing the Lord, Luke. 1. 13. receiued Iohn the Baptist, a fore-runner of Christ.

Looke what sinnes parents haue receiued naturally, without God his great blessing, with­out prayer and humbling of themselues, they shall conuey them to their posteritie. And although the Lord graunteth sometimes ciuill gifts vnto the children of naturall and carnall men: yet for the most part they receiue their naturall sinnes.

But if the children of God, by regenerati­on, doe see into themselues, and lament their sinnes of generation, praying that their naturall corruptions may be preuented in their posteri­ties, they shall see the great mercies of God, in some measure, freeing their children from the same.

Now when thou shalt see such sinnes to be in thy children, enter into thine own heart, exa­mine thy selfe whether they are not come from thee: consider how iustly the hand of God may be vpon thee: and when thou wouldest be angry against thy child, haue an holy anger with thy selfe, and vse this, and such like medi­tation with thine owne soule: Lord, shall I thus punish mine owne sinne, and that in mine owne child? shall I thus persecute the corruptions of my ancestors? nay, I see (O Lord) and proue [Page 301] [...]at thou art displeased with me, for the too [...]arnall conception of my childe: I lay then in [...]me sinne, I asked it not of thee by praier: be [...]ercifull vnto me (O Lord) and in thy good [...]e shew some pittie vpon my child.

Thus thinking, thou goest about to correct [...]ure in thy childe, which hee could not help, [...]ing thy selfe with prayer, repenting with [...]b, thou shalt be so affected, as desirous to [...]w thy child out of sin, yet with the mildest [...]nes and least rigor.

And one thing is most wonderfull; that [...]e will teach their children to speake cor­ [...]ptly, and doe wickedly, whilest they are [...]ng, and yet beat them for it when they are [...].

Againe, some will imbolden their little [...] to practise iniquitie towards others, [...]ich when by the iust iudgment of God, they [...]erwards exercise towards the parents them­ [...]es, they are corrected for it. And yet deale [...]th these, and such like men, for the euill edu­ [...]ion of their children, and they will answere: [...]e not we as much as is of vs required? we [...]d our children to the Church to be instru­ [...]ed of the Pastor: and to the schoole to be [...]ght of the maister: if they learne, it wil be the [...]er for them: if not, they haue the more to [...]were for: what can wee doe more? But re­ [...]mber, O man: consider, O woman, who­ [...]euer thus speaketh, that for sins sake, and the [Page 302] want of praier, there may be a plague vpon the Pastors paines, and a curse vpon the teachers trauell.

If parents therefore would haue their chil­dren Children pro­fit more by good example in one month, then by in­struction in a vvhole yeare. blessed at the Church, and at the schoole: let them beware they giue their children no corrupt example at home, by any carelesnesse, prophannesse, or vngodlinesse: for when ex­amples are set before childrens eies, they are easily led away to that which is euill: otherwise, parents will doe them more harme at home, then both Pastor and schoole-master can doe good abroad. For the corrupt example of the one, fighteth with the good doctrine of the o­ther: which is so much the more dangerous, because that corrupt walking is armed with na­ture, and therefore more forcibly inclineth the affections of children to that side.

And further, experience teacheth vs, that children like, or mislike more by countenance, gesture and behauiour, then by any rule, do­ctrine, or precept whatsoeuer.

Some there be, that will not haue their chil­dren taught, vntill they be ten or twelue yeares old, because (as they say) at that age they haue but an apish imitation.

To whom wee answere, that although they cannot then deepely discerne, nor profoundly conceiue things: yet how many things before these yeares, will they both receiue and re­member?

And we demaund, if children be apish in [...]itation and following that whilst they be [...]ong, which they will haue the habit, quali­ [...]e or propertie of when they be old, may they [...]much better doe apishly good, whiles they [...]e young, which they may carefully do, when [...]ey are old? besides, let them goe so vntaught, [...]d they will grow so head-strong, that they [...]l sooner be broken, then bended: sure it [...], that one stripe, or two words, will doe more [...]ood to a child in time, then a hundred stripes [...]erward.

And here let parents be admonished of their [...]discreet correction; who doe their children [...]e harme in shewing a merrie countenance, [...]er their discipline vsed, then they doe good [...]y their chastisement of them, whiles they doe [...]rect them.

Neither doe we purpose to take away na­ [...]rall affections, and a Christian kind of com­ [...]assion in all our censures: for it is our great [...]mplaint of the brutish vnmercifulnesse of [...]any parents here, but we would wish Christi­ [...]s to correct their vndiscreet affections herein [...]y heauenly wisedome.

Neither are we so stoicall, as to denie a more [...]ild and affable kind of speech to be law­ [...]lly and conueniently vsed to children, and yet [...]e wish it to be void of all vnseemely lenitie, [...]d without all shew of foolish, vaine, and vn­ [...]ecessarie behauiour.

To be briefe, how needefull household go­uernment is towards children, may appeare by the slender thriuing, and small profiting either of religion or vertue, either in the Church or Common-wealth.

Speake men of discipline neuer so much, complaine they of the want of Church gouern­ment neuer so lowd, preach they, teach they neuer so much abroad, vnlesse they will begin discipline in reforming their houses, and giue religion some roome at home, they shall trauell much, and profit little.

And surely, if men be carefull to reforme themselues first, and then their families: if their charge be greater then their circuites and pro­uinces wherein the Lord hath placed them, it were the best way to mooue the Lord to be­stow reformation and discipline on his Church among vs: and of all meanes that now may be hoped for, this seemeth best: for of particu­lar persons, come families: of families, townes: of townes, prouinces: of prouinces, Realmes: so that conueying discipline thus from one to another, in time, and that shortly, it would come into the Church.

Well (we say) let there be neuer so good lawes in cities, neuer so pure order in Chur­ches, if there be no practise at home: if fathers of families vse nor doctrine and discipline in their houses, and ioyne their helping hands to Magistrates and Ministers, they may indeed, [Page 305] [...]t vniustly, as many haue done complaine [...]t their children are corrupted abroad, when [...]ey were before, and are still corrupted and [...]ed at home.

Alas, if parents, to whom the comfort of [...]ir children well brought vp, is a precious [...]wne, will not informe, and reforme their [...]ldren in the feare of God, how would hope [...]taine these men, that others will performe [...] dutie for them, to whom this charge doth [...]elesse appertainc.

Lastly, let parents remember, that there­ [...]e they haue disordered and disobedient [...]dren to themselues, because they haue beene [...]sobedient children vnto the Lord, and disor­ [...]ed to their parents, when they were young: [...]ereof because they haue not repented, the [...]ord punisheth their sinnes to others, with the [...]e sinne to themselues.

Wilt thou know thou father, how thou [...]ist haue that blessing to be the blessed [...]er of a blessed seede? Wilt thou know, [...] mother, how to auoid that curse, to be [...] cursed mother of a cursed seede? bring [...]y children within the compasse of the coue­ [...]t, indeuor to make thy son, the son of God, [...]d thy daughter by nature, the daughter of God by grace: and remember that God, on his [...]t protested to father Abraham, that hee [...] as all sufficient, for the accomplishment of [...]is promise, in giuing him a blessed seede: [Page 306] and requested also on father Abrahams part, that he should walke before him, and be vp­right.

Wilt thou then haue the one part of this couenant, that is, that God should blesse thee in thy seede? then remember also, that thou walke before the Lord, and be vpright.

Wilt thou haue thy children as the blessed seed of Abraham? teach them with Abraham the iudgements of the Lord: pray for them with Abraham, that they may liue in the light of the Lord: be readie to offer them with A­braham, that they may be an holy sacrifice vnto the Lord.

It is thou (O man) (O woman) that maist doe thy childe the greatest good, and the grea­test harme: if thou praiest for them, and repen­test for thy selfe, the Lord will blesse thy care, the Pastours paynes, and the Teachers tra­uell: but if thou despisest these duties, the Lord will deny thee these blessings, and the curse of God will fall vpon thy childe, at home in thy house, abroad in the Church, and in the schoole.

And seeing the Lord hath promised that he will be thy God, and blesse thy seede, if thou beest faithfull, thou mayest both hope, that thou art of the faithfull, if thou hast a blessed seede: and feare that thou hast not, as yet, the blessing of the couenant, when thy seede is ac­cursed.

But had not Iacob wicked children, and Da­ [...] Obiection. vngodly sonnes? and doth not daily expe­ [...]ence teach vs, that wicked men haue godly [...]ldren?

Yes, for besides the secret counsell of the Answere. [...]d herein, wee must know, that neither the [...]omise of the Lord is so vniuersall, that euery [...]ticular child of a faithfull man, should be [...]hin the couenant: or if of many, there be [...]one blessed, the promise is performed: [...], which more is, though the faithfull man [...]e neuer a good child, yet, if vnto the thou­ [...]d generation, there be but one good, the co­ [...]ant is not broken: neither must we tie the [...]d his worke, so much to man, that a good [...]n may not haue an euill son, seeing though [...]e Lord visit not his sinnes, yet he may visit [...] sinnes of some of his Forefathers, to the [...]d and fourth generation going before.

To the second (we say) that an euill father [...]ng a good childe, though the Lord shew [...] mercie to that particular man therein, [...] he may remember his promise to some of [...] Forefathers, in the thousand generations [...]g before: and though that euill man [...] no cursed childe, yet the curse may be ac­ [...]plished in the third and fourth generations [...]ing.

Wherefore, not speaking of election, or re­ [...]ation, which wee leaue onely to the Lord, make good or bad: we exhort parents to [Page 308] the ordinarie meanes to bring vp their chil­dren, so as they, either by some good tokens may see them the children of God, and heires of the couenant, or at least be comforted in their owne conscience.

If their children for some cause vnknowne, refuse it, yet may they reioyce in this, that to the vttermost of their abilitie, they haue vsed all good and godly meanes to bring them vp well, and offered them to God.

And if Parents haue cause to be grieued, when thus trauelling in good education, they cannot see good in their children, how much more cause of griefe may they haue, when they haue vsed and bestowed no labour at all, to bring them vp in the feare of the Lord? And yet many will be grieued for the one, that will not for the other.

Wherefore, if wee wish to conuey God his blessings to our posterities, let vs vse the duties thereunto: let vs, (if we be loth to conuey God his iudgements to our children) carefully auoid the meanes vnto it.

And surely, as it is a blessed thing in the houre of death, with Simeon to depart in peace, Luke. 3. 29. leauing our wiues, children, and seruants, mem­bers of Christ, spouses to Christ, children to God, and seruants to the Lord: so in death, no one thing will be more grieuous vnto a man, then (the Lord hauing giuen him the charge of so many soules to be furthered to [Page 309] saluation) that his owne tormented conscience [...]hall presse him: how, as much as he could, hee [...]h helped them forward to their damnation: [...]d so (which is more fearefull) hee shall haue [...]em spewing and foming out on his face, con­ [...]all curses in hell, accusing him for euer to be [...] murtherer of their soules, and a cut-throte of [...]eir saluation.

The end of all this briefly is thus much, that [...]ents hauing fooles, children not walking ei­ [...] in knowledge, or in a good conscience, [...]st make some vse of so iust a cause of griefe, [...]mining themselues, and accusing their owne [...]les before the Lord, eyther for that their [...]eeling was prophane to so holy an estate, or [...]ish, because they desired rather a seed like [...] themselues in flesh and blood, then such [...] might be like to Christ by grace, and new [...], or that they begat their off spring as meer [...]rall, or very carnall men: or because [...]ey either prophanelie neglected all good e­ [...]cation: or monstrously misliked that in their [...]ng children, which they liked in themselues, [...] punished in them their owne corrupt pre­ [...]s: or for that they suffered their children [...]riously to do euill to others, which they [...]ld not suffer to doe to themselues: or vn­ [...]ght them that at home, which was taught a­ [...]d: or in that they do lie in some sin vnrepen­ [...] of; or else because they neuer made con­ [...]ce to bring their posteritie within the [...]enant of saluation, but still loued the flesh [Page 310] of their children, and not their soules.

Let all Parents remember, that they are bound by the law of God and nature, as con­cerning this bodily life, to make good and ho­nest prouision (according to their degrees) for the reliefe and maintenance of their children and familie. And therefore such Fathers and mothers, as consume and waste away their money and substance vnthriftily, by dicing, carding, gaming, or by any other indirect and vnlawfull meanes, whereby their children and familie should be maintained, doe very vnnatu­rally sinne, and breake Gods commaunde­ments.

The wise man sheweth parents, when is the best time to sow the seede of vertue in their children, that it may bring forth the fruit of life, and make them alway readie to die: saying, Eccle. 12. 1. Remember now (saith he) thy Crea­tor Youth must thinke on death betimes, to the end to liue well, and die well. in the dayes of thy youth. As if he should say: Be mindfull, and thinke on God in thy youth, and doe not prolong or defer it vntill age. And so all their life shall runne in a line, the middle like the beginning, and the end like the middle: as the Sunne setteth against the place where it rose.

One of the principallest duties that belong to parents towards their children, is, that they Marriage with Papists, &c. Gen. 2. 23. Verse 24. be very warie and carefull, that their sonnes and daughters doe not match in marriage with such as are vngodly, wicked, and voyd of true [Page 311] religion. Which if they doe, they endanger the faith of their children, and so commit a grieuous sinne.

For proofe whereof, let vs consider first what marriage is, and how nigh a coniunction the Lord hath made it. He made the woman of the [...]ans nature, flesh of his flesh, and bone of his bones: so that wee may not imagine, that that God which required so neere a coniunction in [...]e outward and inferiour part, will suffer the [...]nde and spirit of the husband and wife, be­ [...]eene faith and superstition to be rent asunder. Therefore when God said: They shall be two in [...]e flesh: We may not thinke but that he spake [...] of the whole and perfect creature made of [...]odie and soule, that they should be of two [...]e. Or that God did by so holy a Law, set free [...]e holiest part, requiring onely such agreement [...] the flesh and bodie, and leaue the soule and [...]pirit in dissention? For as God gaue vnto [...]oth one name, as touching their earthly na­ [...]re, signifying their vnitie, and called them Alam: Gen. 5. 2. So he gaue vnto them a like­ [...]esse in name, as they were ioyned in marriage, [...] signifie their agreement in minde and spirit, [...]d called the one Man, and the other Woman: Gen. 2. 22. 23. Yea, he gaue vnto marriage this [...]peciall priuiledge. For this cause shall a man Gen. 2. 24. [...]e his father and his mother, and shall cleaue [...] his wife, and they shall be one flesh: but it [...]uld neuer be, that any vniting onely of flesh [Page 312] and blood, should haue found a dispensation from that Law, that bindeth mind and consci­ence. Honour thy Father and thy Mother: Exod. 20. 12.

The holy and faithfull bond of marriage be­tween man & wife, is commended to vs by that most holy Coniunction of Christ with his Church: Ephes. 5. 25. Seeing that this is a Con­iunction both of bodie and soule, then such as are Christian parents, ought to be carefull, that How should that marriage speed well, when the bridegrome marrieth such a one, as to whom he may not say, God speed, because she is none of Gods friends? 2. Ioh. 10. 1. Cor. 7. 39. But how doe they marrie in the Lord, who doe marrie the Lords ene­mies? their children may reioyce in it: howsoeuer it liketh others to marrie their children, yet they ought to see that their children do settle them­selues, that they may knit their minds in religi­on, where they make their bodies one, that so their marriage may beto them, as a loo­king glasse, to view and behold the loue of Christ.

Saint Paul giueth this generall rule to all that will marrie, that they marry in the Lord. And to marrie onely in the Lord, is not to be led by flesh and blood, with fauour, credit, honour, friendship, riches, or beautie, but rather it is to marrie religiously in the feare of God, and in the fellowship of the Church of Christ, where true Christians liue by one faith, professe one re­ligion, and serue one God.

Now let vs a little call to our remembrance, what fruit such equall marriages haue brought forth from the beginning.

The sonnes of God, saw the daughters of Gen. 6. 2. 11. [Page 213] men, that they were faire, and they tooke them As the Iewes might not mar­rie with the Cananites, so christians may not marrie with them which are like Cananites. Gen. 24. 3. and 28. 1. Mal. 2. 11. Ezra. 9. 14. [...]iues of all that they liked.

This aduenturous marriage in a strange re­gion, did so infect the world, that all flesh had [...]rupted his wayes. For this cause God gaue [...]is plaine and expresse law vnto the people [...]f Israel, as touching all the Inhabitants of the [...]d of Canaan: Thou shalt not giue thy daugh­ [...] vnto his sonnes: Deut. 7. 2. 3. 4. Exod. 34. 16. [...]ely they will turne away thy heart: 1. Kin. 11. [...]. Ezra. 9. 1. 2. &c. and 13. 10. 1. 2. &c. reade the [...]ces.

We may not here thinke, that this inhibition [...]eth not now vnto vs, as touching Pagans, [...]ks; or Infidels: but rather we must assure our [...]es in the trueth, & know that no people in [...] world, are more within the compasse of this [...], then the Papists, & superstitious idolaters. [...]e holy Ghost forbiddeth vs to keepe com­ [...]y If Adulterie may separate marriage, shall not idolatrie hinder marri­age, which is worse then it? with Idolaters, and such as are of a strange [...]gion. And how can he then permit, that we [...]ld marrie with them? Hee commandeth [...]ightly: that we should not draw in one yoke [...] the vnbeleeuing. 2 Cor. 6. 14. which to doe, [...] vnseemly, as an oxe and an asse to be yo­ [...] together to plough: Deu. 2 [...]. 10. And how [...] we possibly deuise to violate and break this [...]mandement more contumeliously, then to [...]e our selues in marriage with the vnfaith­ [...] We are charged: To offer vp our bodies a liue­ [...] holy, and a reasonable sacrifice vnto God: [Page 314] Rom. 12. 1. But if we shall giue our bodies to Papists, wee then shall make them one flesh with the Papists and then we may be sure, that no corrupt sacrifice can be a sweet smelling sa­crifice vnto the Lord our God.

Here godly parents ought then aduisedly Parents may not giue their daughters to a man vnsancti­fied. Gen. 34. 14. to consider, that the strengthning and constant standing in religion of their children, is onely of God, and from God, and not of themselues; and therefore although they haue brought vp their children religiously and vertuously, and thinke the [...] are so well grounded and setled therein, that they cannot be remooued and drawne from their sound profession: yet they must beware, that they doe not tempt Go [...] and venture their children to walke in that w [...] which so many haue fallen in. How can they assure themselues? that their children shall abide constant, and stand vpright, if they shall consent, that they may couple themselues in marriage with Papists.

Sampson was borne by Gods promise, con­secrated to the Lord from the day of his birth, to the day of his death, made Iudge of Israel, a deliuerer of Gods Church, and a Reuenger of his enemies: verie great and especiall tokens of the grace of God in him, that it should be con­tinued: yet, when he would attempt to marrie one of a strange religion, he lost his honour, and became a laughing-stocke vnto the ene­mies of God. Iudges the fourthteenth Chapter [Page 315] [...]nd first verse, &c. and 16, 4. 17. 18. &c.

Salomon was a wise man, as euer was any Miserable is that man which is fette­red with a wo­man, that liketh nor his religion. [...]efore him or after him: God had indued him [...]th heauenly gifts, and had set him vp, as a fi­ [...]e of his Sonne Christ: yet when he had mar­ [...]ed with Pharaohs daughter, (and others of an­ [...]her religion, and strangers from the Com­ [...]on-wealth of Israel) he then fell from worse [...] worse, till at the last he fell to miserable ido­ [...]rie. 1 King. 11. 4.

What was the cause that Ahab King of Is­ [...]aell, He feareth not sinne, which doth not shun occasions, and he is worthie to be snared, which leadeth himselfe into temptation, and so maketh a trap for himselfe. Luke. 11. 4. did worse then all the kings before him, a [...]an euen sold to worke wickednes in the sight [...]f the Lord: aboue all his idolatries, and wal­ [...]ng in the most wretched waies of Ieroboam, [...]e Scripture layeth this to his charge euen as [...]s greatest sinne, that hee tooke the daughter [...]f the King of the Sidonians to his wife: 1. Kin. [...]. 28. 29. 30. 31. And least such parents as ey­ [...]er haue, or hereafter shall marrie their chil­ [...]en to Papists, should thinke their case to be [...]ter then his, because though they marrie [...]em to Papists, or to Atheists, yet they do not [...]rrie them to any Pagans: let them consider [...]hat the scripture teacheth them more.

Iehoram King of Iudah married neither The wife must be meet, as God said. Gen. 2. 18. But how is she meet, if the husband be a Christian and she a Papist? [...]ith any Sidonian, nor Aegyptian, neither [...]ith Pagan or Infidell, but with one of his [...]ne people, and of the Tribe of Israel: yet [...]ecause she had corrupted her religion in her fathers house, the Scripture sheweth this to [Page 316] to be the cause of all Iehorams sinne: Hee did euill in the sight of the Lord, because the daugh­ter of Ahab was his wife, 2. King. 1. 18. Yea the Scripture maketh this sinne so great, that Iehosophat a good King, was yet defiled with it, and it is reported as a great blemish of his vertuous doings, that euer hee suffered his sonne Iehoram so dangerously to marrie, 2. Chro. 18. 1.

When God would blame the Idolatrie of his people of Israell, shewing both how greatly he did hate it, & what plagues he would bring vp­on them for it, he reuealed it vnto the Prophet vnder this parable: bidding him take vnto him­selfe a wife of fornications: that is, a wife full of spirituall whordomes, such a one as a Pa­pist is, that in such a marriage (as in a glasse) he might behold how loathsome the peoples Idolatries were, Hose. 1. 2. &c.

Parents haue further to remember, that they haue not this rule and authoritie ouer their children, that they may chuse whether they will let them marrie or no, or when they list, and whom they list: but fathers and mothers must consider, that they haue rule ouer their children vnder the Lord, so that the Lord is a­boue them: and therefore parents must deale with their children according to the will and mind of God, which will of God is reuealed vnto vs out of his word. Now God by his A­postle saith: To auoid fornication, let euery man 1. Cor. 7. 1. [Page 317] [...] his owne wife, and let euerie woman haue [...] owne husband. Whereby all parents may see [...] God commaundeth them to permit and [...]er euerie one to marrie that is disposed to [...]ie.

Now, if they may not forbid any man or [...]an to marrie, much lesse their owne chil­ [...], whom if they suffer not to marrie, not ha­ [...] the gift of continencie; then they breake [...]esist Gods ordinance. For we read, that [...] Isaack forbad his sonne Iacob to marrie Gen. 28. 1. 2. [...] of the daughters of Canaan, hee did not re­ [...]e him altogether from marriage, & there­ [...] hee directed him, where and with whom [...] should marrie.

Likewise the parents of Sampson, when he Iudg. 14. 12. 3. [...]d a wife of them, did not simply forbid [...] to marrie, but they reproued him, for be­ [...]e hee would marrie an infidell, and a pro­ [...]e woman.

Therefore such parents as be godly, will It is the parents dutie to giue their children that which may help them in this life, to counsell or to prouide them fit and religi­ous marriages. 2. Cor. 12. 14. Gen. 24. 2. 3. 4. Ruth 3. 1. [...]e aduised considerations and regard of the [...]mities of their children, and whether they [...] liue continent and chaste, or no: and if [...] shall make choise, and haue a good liking [...]h as be honest, religious & godly, (hauing [...]ed their parents consent) although they be [...] rich and wealthie, as they would wish [...] to match with: yet they ought not to hin­ [...]estraine, and forbid their children to mar­ [...]ely for want of goods and substance.

Parents ought to be carefull, that their chil­dren doe marry in such an age wherein they should vnderstand whom they choose, and very well perceiue what they take in hand, and that they doe not seeke to match themselues in mar­riage aboue their degree. And it is verie expe­dient, that parents admonish their children, to make their choise according to their complexi­on and condition.

This is a most vnnaturall and cruell part, for When Parents doe abuse their authoritie. parents to sell their children for gaine & lucre, and to marrie them when they list & to whom they list, without the good liking of their chil­dren, and so bring them into bondage. And Parents must not match their children onely for carnall re­spects. therefore if parents shall force and compell their children to marrie contrarie to their mind and liking: then the sorrowfull children may not say they haue married them, but for euer they haue marred and vndone them. And ther­fore When parents doe marry their daughters to men of vnder­standing they shall performe a waightie worke. to the end, that marriages may be perpetu­all, louing and delightfull betwixt the parties: there must and ought to be a knitting of hearts, before striking of hands.

The places of Scripture, are many and di­uerse, by which may plainly appeare, that all godly and Christian Parents, are charged by God himselfe, that they should be carefull in time, to make meet choise of husbands for their daughters, and fit wiues for their sonnes: amongst many, these quotations doe sufficient­ly prooue it. Deutro. 7. 3. Nehemia. 13. 23, 24. [Page 319] [...]. [...]9. 6. 1. Cor. 7. 36. 37. 38. Gen. 24. 10. &c. [...]d [...]8. 1. 2. and 34. 4. and 38. 6. 8. Iosu. 15. 16. [...] 2. Sam. 13. 13. Iudg. 14. 1 &c. Let fathers [...]d mothers therefore (on whom this charge [...] Gods his commandement lieth, to take wiues [...] their sonnes, and to prouide husbands for [...] daughters) take diligent heede hereunto, [...] they abuse not this their power and autho­ [...]e ouer their children, but as in other causes, Colos. 3. 21. [...]y are willed by the Apostle, that they deale [...] in such sort towards them, that they here­ [...] be dismaid and discouraged: so especially [...] is matter of greatest moment and value [...]ll other worldly things whatsoeuer, let [...] abstaine from all rigour and roughnesse, [...] beware that they turne not their fatherlie [...]sdiction and gouernment, into a tyran­ [...]ll sowernesle and waywardnesse, letting [...] will goe for a law, and their pleasure for a [...]son.

For the rule of Parents ouer their chil­ [...], ought to resemble the gouernment of [...]d Princes towards their subiects: that is to [...], it must be milde, gentle, and easie to be [...]ne.

For as they, so likewise Parents, so farre concerneth them, and lieth in their abilitie performe, must carry such an euen and vp­ [...]ht hand in their gouernment, that they may [...] loue seeke to win the hearts of those, ouer [...]hom they are set, to be firme & sure towards [Page 231] them; and not to keepe them vnders seruile or slauish awe and subiection by too much feare, but rather by a childlike and reuerent feare, which both the subiects owe vnto their princes, and children vnto their Parents, and which both the one and the other, easily obtaine at the hands of such as are vnder their gouerne­ment, by their equall, vpright, and moderate behauiour towards them.

It doth therefore stand Parents greatly in hand, that in making choise for their chil­dren, Parents ought to deale sin­cerely in the choise of their children. they be free from all sinister and corrupt affection, and that for lucre and couetousnesse they seeke not to thrust such matches vpon their children, as they cannot brooke, nor like well of.

Yea, and in this most graue and waightie cause, it is a thing earnestly to be wished, that all Christian Parents would not take this mat­ter and businesse lightly in hand, as if it were In prouision of matches for their children, Parents ought to beginne with prayer. but a toy, or a iest, but that they begin it with prayer: that in the whole action, they may in such sort be directed, that they doe no­thing against the word of God, or vnbesee­ming the same authoritie, the which God himselfe in this cause hath imposed or laid vpon them.

And thus doing, God no doubt will adde a blessing vnto their godly indeauour and holy care, and worke obedience in the hearts of their children, as he framed the heart of Isaack with entire affection to embrace Rebecca, whom [Page 321] [...] father Abraham had by his steward pro­ [...]ed for him: Gen. 24. 7. &c.

The third point that appertaineth to Parents, [...] be themselues examples of all godlines & The third point. Examples doe much more perswade then words, yet we must liue by precepts, and not by exam­ples. [...]uousnes to their children. So that they must [...]ember, that they themselues doe not say, or [...]e any thing, that is euill or offensine, in the [...]sence of their children. For it is certaine, that [...]dren follow and learne nothing so much, and [...]one, as that which they see their father and [...]her doe, or say. For the vertue, thriuing and [...]speritie of children, is for the most part [...]ught by the fathers and mothers good ex­ [...]ples and instructions, and contrariwise: for [...] which is done by examples the inferiours [...]l thinke they may lawfully doe the like. [...] good examples doe edifie and vphold: so [...] examples doe destroy and confound. For [...]manitie is taught by the law of Nature.

If therefore Parents by their example [...]uld teach the contraie, what doe they else [...] indeuour to transforme men into beasts, [...]ginning first to performe it in their owne [...]ldren? They must be circumspect that their [...]ldren doe not fight, and iniurie one another: [...]d if they sweare, curse, lye, or speak any baw­ [...] or ribaldous words, or sing any filthy [...]es, or vnchristian songs, then to reprooue [...]em sharply for it.

And let all parents alway labour, that their [...]dren may rather feare them, for loue and [Page 322] reuerence, then for feare of punishment. For children that obey their Parents for feare of correction, commonly feare them no longer, then the stripes endure. Before all things, it is As the father beginneth, so it is like the sonne will proceed. needfull that Parents should shew themselues vnto their children, as a manifest patterne or example, not onely by not sinning and offen­ding God any waies: but also by liuing godly, and by doing all things honestly, that so their children may looke into their liues, and peruse themselues as in a glasse. And therefore, if Pa­rents Gal. 6. 7. doe giue good examples, they shall reape the fruit thereof, in the life, behauiour, man­ners, and prosperitie of their children. For children loue and delight to do, as their Parents did before them.

All Christian fathers ought to be very care­full, in nourishing and maintaining natural loue and concord, amongst the children and family, and in no wise to suffer any sparke of hatred to enter into their hearts, least it kindle a fire in Mat. 18. 7. their breast: much lesse ought they themselues to cast in coales of discord among them, by vn­kind or iniurious examples of dealing. For the state of a familie if it be in due order, is like to a frame of ioyning worke, or building, where­of, if some one peece be out of his place, it ten­deth to the disordering of all the rest: and one disorder following another, all becommeth out of ioynt, and falleth vnto confusion very dis­praisable.

So that Parents therefore ought to be care­ [...]ll to maintaine their children in peace, con­ [...]rd and amitie: For if discord and contenti­ [...] be dangerous and pernitious among all [...], how much rather betweene brethren and [...]ers?

Likewise, if it be hard quenching of sto­ [...]ck and debate betweene those that are not [...]ioyned in kindred, it is farre more difficult [...]e-vnite brethren, because enmitie among [...] is mightie and strong, like iron barres to [...]pe them a sunder. Neyther is there any [...]ng more slippery or of greater efficacy to [...]ert a familie, then dissention among bre­ [...]en.

It is an old saying: by concord small things [...] grow, but by discord great things come to [...]ght.

Againe, how dangerous it is for parents to [...] more loue and affection to one childe, [...] to another, except vpon iust and great [...]se: the example of Iacobs children doth te­ [...]. For what was the originall of their en­ [...] and cruelty, executed against their brother [...]ph? Gen. 37. 3. Moses there saith, that Ia­ [...] louing Ioseph better then his brethren, [...]e him a party coloured coate, and thereof [...] tooke occasion to take him, and to speake [...]ghly vnto him.

Parents therefore to the end to preuent the [...] inconueniences, are to vse equalitie among [Page 324] their children so neere as may be, whether in their ordinary vsage, or in the diuision of their goods.

For all men naturally are inclined, but too much to the loue of earthly goods: so the vnequall sharing and diuiding of the same, doth oftentimes breed great braules and per­nitious debate betweene Brethren and Si­sters.

Therefore all fathers and mothers are with great diligence to take heede what they say or doe in their houses, and that they doe not com­mit any lewde or wicked deede, whereby their children may be moued to imitate and follow the same: neyther that they vtter or speake any baudy or ribaldous words, or vse to sweare, or lie in their presence: for euill speakings or com­munication (saith the Apostle) corrupteth good 1. Cor. 15. 33. manners.

Seruants also are to be looked vnto, and sharply rebuked, if they doe commit or shew any lewd tricke, or vnhonest behauiour in the presence of children, eyther in word, deed, or gesture. For if they be iustly called murthe­rers that kill their children being new borne, and kill but the body: how great wickednesse is it then to kill the mindes of children through euill examples? Deserue not such seruants se­uerely to be punished by law (thinke you) that bewitch young children, and hurt their weake bodies with poysons? What then doe they [Page 325] [...]serue, which corrupt the chiefe parts of In­ [...]s with most vngratious venime, we meane, [...] filthy talke, and lewde conuersation of life? [...] it is a lighter matter to kill the body, then [...] minde and soule.

Further, Parents ought to be circumspect [...] wary that their children doe not haunt or [...] euil company, nor vse any vnhonest pastime. [...] if it be so that a father will not suffer his [...]de to come into a place where he may be in [...]ger to take hurt of his body either by infe­ [...] of the plague, or otherwise: how much [...]e is he bound to with-hold and keepe his [...]de from comming there, where hee should [...] and poyson his soule?

The fourth and last point is, that Parents The last point. [...]e with all care and diligence, keepe their [...]dren from lazie idlenesse, a vice no doubt, [...] of which doe spring many inconueniences, [...] is condemned by the holy Ghost in ma­ [...] places Gen. 3. 19. Ezech. 16. 49. Pro. 12. 11. and 18. 9. 1. Tim. 5. 13. 2. Thes. 3. 10. 11 of Scripture: whereby God decla­ [...], that he created no man in vaine, or to no [...]pose, neyther is there any man, vnto whom [...] hath not alloted, as it were a certaine stan­ [...]g and roome, and a lawfull calling to walke [...] Whereupon it followeth, that the order [...]h God hath appointed, is troubled by [...] as liue idlely: yea, Gods ordinance is bro­ [...], which is great sinne and wickednesse.

So then, by the Word of GOD, none [...]ht to liue idlely, and to neglect his charge [Page 326] and dutie, but ought to giue himselfe to some profitable calling to get his liuing by, and to doe good to others.

Although fathers prouide for their chil­dren great store of money, and huge heapes of treasure: yet in three or foure houres, all may be wasted and come to nought. For much euill commeth through Idlenesse: It is an euill teacher: He that doth nothing is ill occupyed. The minde of man is euer stirring and doing somewhat: if it be not doing well, it is doing ill.

A water though it be neuer so cleare and faire, fresh and comfortable; yet if it stand still in a pit or hole, or be kept long in a vessell, whence it hath no issue, it will putrifie and cor­rupt, rotte and smell, and be vnwholesome: euen so it fareth with children; yea, and with all the sonnes of Adam, if they haue nothing to doe, no way to bestow their wit, they will rot, and proue vnwholesome, and deuise mischiefe all the day long.

For as labour and exercise of body in one Idlenesse bring­eth much euill. man, industrie and diligence of minde in ano­ther man, are sure forts and strong bulwarkes of Countries: euen so Idlenesse and negligence are the cause of all euill: for an idle mans braine becommeth quickly the shop of the Diuell. And as in all things naturall, there is one thing or other which is the spoyle of it: as the can­ker to the Rose, the worme to the Apple, and [Page 327] [...]e Caterpiller to the leafe: so the common [...]yle to all youth, is the contrary to paines [...] labour, which is Idlenesse. Therefore is I­ [...]esse worthily called the mother of all e­ [...], and step-dame of all vertues.

The Prophet Ezekiel in his sixteenth [...]pter, verse forty nine, teacheth that Idle­ [...] was one of the principall sins of Sodome, [...]h pulled downe fire and brimstone from [...]en vpon their heads.

This Idlenesse is the Diuels confederate: [...] euen as the traiterous seruant, while his [...]er is a sleepe, and all things at rest, setteth [...] the doore for the theefe to enter in vpon [...], and spoyle him at his pleasure: euen so [...]nesse while we are not aware, lying soft vp­ [...]he pillowes of securitie, openeth the doore [...]he Diuell to enter into vs with full swing, [...]e destruction both of body and soule.

[...]int Matthew saith, Chapter thirteene, [...]e twenty fiue, that while men slept, the e­ [...]e came and sowed tares among the wheat: [...]e fittest time that the Diuell can finde to [...]e vpon vs, is when wee are idle, for that [...]e sleepe of the soule.

[...]n the eleuenth Chapter of the second of [...]el, wee reade, that while Dauid tarryed [...] at home in the beginning of the yeere, [...] kings vsed to goe forth to battell, he was [...]e ouertaken with those two foule sinnes of [...]tery and Man-slaughter.

Oh that men saw, to how many vices and euils they shut the doore, when they cease to be idle, and giue themselues to honest labours, and a lawfull calling. So long as Sampson (Iudg. 19.) warred with the Philistines, he could neuer be taken or euercome, but after that hee gaue himselfe to idlenesse and pleasure, he not onely committed fornication with the strumpet Dalilah, but also was taken of his enimies, and had his eyes miserably put out.

If those two which were such excellent men, indued of God with singular gifts the one of Prophecie, and the other of Strength, and such as no labour or trouble could ouercome, were notwithstanding ouerthrowne, and fell into gricuous sinnes by yeelding for a short time to ease: then what crimes, what mischiefes and inconueniences, are to be feared of them, who all their life long, giue themselues to idlenesse and loitering? But such hath alwayes beene the peruerse incredulitie of mens hearts, that they will not belieue that other men haue perished, vntill they themselues perish also.

If wee be vtterly void of vnderstanding, let vs goe to the bruit creatures, which want those helps of reason and gouernment that man hath, and learne of them: Goe to the Pismire, O slug­gard (saith Salomon, Prou. 6. 6.) behold her wayes, and be wise: for shee hauing no guide, nor ruler, prepareth her meate in summer, and gathe­reth her food in the haruest.

What is it that filleth the prisons, and bring­ [...]h so many to the gallowes, and causeth so [...]any parents to lament & bewaile the vntime­ [...] death of their children, but Idlenesse? When [...]e poore condemned wretches haue receiued [...]r iudgements, and come to the place of exe­ [...]tion, and stand on the ladder, what counsell [...] they to young men, and to children, but to [...]are of Idlenesse?

What is the cause of such, and so many dis­ [...]es, in the body? Aske the Physitians, and they [...]ll tell you, Idlenesse? Whereof rise rebelli­ [...] in kingdomes against Princes? Whereof [...] mutinies, and mutterings in Cities against [...]gistrates? You can giue no greater cause [...]reof then Idlenesse.

Christ our Redeemer saith: Of euery idle Mat. 12. 36. [...]d (that is, vaine and vnprofitable trifles, [...]ch the most part of people spend their liues [...], that men shall speake, they shall giue account [...]eof at the day of iudgement. If we shall make [...] account for idle words, what shal we do for [...]ds, for idle feet, for idle body, for idle soule? [...]hat account for all idlenesse, especially for [...]ked deedes, shall we make at the day of [...]gement? Seeing then that idlenes is so noi­ [...]e and hurtfull, let all christian parents ther­ [...]e labour and indeuour to auoid it, both in [...]emselues and their children, as a plague or [...]tagious disease.

Therefore it is most requisite and necessary, [Page 330] that Parents doe bring vp their Children ey­ther To learne that Science, which they be most apt for. in learning, or in some occupation and handicraft, whereby they may get their liuing another day, and so liue the better.

But some vnaduisedly aad foolishly do rea­son, Obiection. saying; What need is it for noble and rich mens children to haue learning? they shall haue enough?

We answere, the greater the ship is, and the Answere. more marchandise that it carryeth about, the more need it hath of a cunning Ship-master: so the greater the childe is both by birth, and by inheritance, so much the more need it is for him to be brought vp in learning, and in good literature. For learning, knowledge, and vnder­standing Pro. 3. 13. 14. 15. is profitable both for rich and poore. So that (as the Grecians say:) hee that is igno­rant and vnlearned seeth nothing, although he haue eyes. The life of such a one, is as a tree without fruit, a day without Sunne, a night without Moone or Starres, a house without a man, and a head without a body.

It is found by experience, which is the best Schoole-maister, that vnto what occupation or Science soeuer any young man shall be put, the more skill and knowledge he hath in the liberall Sciences, so much the more sooner shall he learne his occupation, and the more ready and handsomer shall hee be about the same. And besides this, hee that hath learning, al­though it be but small, shall much better vnder­ [...]tand [Page 331] the Preachers, and take more profit by [...]earing of them, to his great and endlesse com­fort, then he that hath no learning. Experience [...]so teacheth vs this, that goods, riches, beauty, [...]lory, and health, be vnstable, and fade, perish, [...]asse away, come and go: but learning and ver­ [...]e neuer stagger, alway be constant. Therfore [...] all the charges that Parents be at about their [...]ldren, that money is best bestowed, that is [...]id out vpon learning: especially when they [...]e taught to know God aright, and how hee [...]l be serued.

It is a lamentable thing, to consider how [...]elesse some Parents are of their Children, [...]hen they put them to the Schole, in that they [...]ke small account and reckoning to what [...]hoole-master they put their children to learn, [...] they may haue them taught for little or no [...]st, though their children profit little or no­ [...]ng in learning, so that oftentimes they not [...]ely bestow their money in vaine, but also [...]ely suffer their children to loose their time, [...]ich is a thing so precious, as it cannot be re­ [...]emed with any money, and so let them spend [...] or three yeares in learning that, which [...]ey might by the diligence and orderly teach­ [...]g of a skilfull schoole-master, learne in lesse [...]en halfe this time, if there be any aptnesse [...]d towardnesse in their children.

Therefore let Parents remember that as the [...]oodnes of the ground is not much profitable [Page 332] for corne, vnlesse there be a meete husband­man to till and sow the same: so likewise it is not enough to finde good towardnesse in your children, vnlesse you prouide a meete and fit Schoole-maister to further the same.

And as Noblemen and Gentlemen are desi­rous to haue a good and skilf [...]ll Horse-keeper, that can keep their horses well, and they spare not to giue slipends to such: euen so much more ought Christian Parents to be desirous to haue, and maintaine a good Schoolemaister, that might bring vp their children in vertue, wisedome and good learning. And like as if their horse be not well broken, or haue any e­uill qualitie, they will be carefull to see it reme­dyed, and that he may be made tractable and gentle: so likewise godly parents ought to be much more carefull, not onely that their chil­dren may by instruction be brought to some good order, but also to looke that there be no fault in the teacher, to whom they commit the care to bring them vp in learning and good manners.

But alas, and with griefe be it spoken, many Why some men bring not vp their children to any good perfection in learning. men now a dayes, albeit they perceiue their children to be forward and apt vnto letters, and capable to receiue good learning, hauing wealth and riches enough to maintaine them thereat, yet will they not suffer them to conti­nue thereat vntill they come to any good per­fection: some because they themselues do not [Page 333] like of our state & religion: other some because they see little preferment, and no worldly ad­uantage to follow learning, but great trouble and affliction: all which men, in this doing, de­clare themselues to be irreligious, vngodly, and destroyers both of themselues, their children, and of all Common-wealthes and congregati­ons. For what publike wealth, Towne, Citie, [...] Parish, can be well gouerned, without the Prince, Magistrate, or Preacher, be learned, both in humane and diuine lawes?

In times past when ignorance and supersti­ [...]on was accounted good deuotion, at which time men saw so many spirituall promotions (as they then called them) vnto rich Bishop­ [...]cks, Abbies, Priories, Deaneries, Benefices, &c. then they would let for no cost to haue [...]heir children learned in some sort, to the end, [...]hey might get them to be Priests, and so to [...]ay Masse, and the rest of that idolatrous ser­ [...]ce, that so they might liue in ease and idle­nesse.

But now that they see how painfull and pe­ [...]llous a charge it is to preach, and rightly to [...]uide Gods word, and to deliuer the same free­ [...]y and faithfully, and also how vnthankefull an office and calling it is, to gouerne well a Con­gregation: they had rather their children should be bound prentises to some trade, or else follow any other profession, then that they should stu­die Diuinitie.

When children were nothing apt to good learning, and when there was no good learn­ing to be had, no nor good teachers, yet then well was he that might set his child to schoole. But now when youth was neuer so apt to good learning, as it is at this day: and learning and all good meanes neuer so plentiously flowrish­ing, being restored and reduced into such a fa­cilitie, and a compendious cleare briefenesse: yea neuer so good; learned, and skilful School-masters: neuer such plenty of so good and plaine bookes printed, neuer so good cheape: the holy Ghost mercifully offering his gifts, as it were into the mouthes of all men: few there be that will open their mouthes to receiue them: their eyes to see the cleare light: nor yet their eares to heare so pure, manifest, and wholesome, and heauenly doctrine, euen the Word of God, the meanes of our salua­tion.

It is therefore to be feared, that for this our great vnthankfulnesse, these so manifold hea­uenly blessings shall be taken from vs, and gi­uen to some other nation, that will both be more thankfull for them, and also shew forth better fruits of Christianitie, then wee hitherto haue done.

Oh therefore that parents would aduisedly consider, that the want of this christian duty of the good education of their Children, is the onely cause of great mischiefe & much misery, [Page 335] both vpon children and themselues; yea, in [...]th it is from hence that so much sorrow, [...]iefe, and shame befalleth many times vpon [...]thers and mothers.

And how commeth this to passe, that the Parents owne dounge, is cast in their faces by [...]eir owne children, in mocking and dispising [...]f them? and whence arise all these inconue­ [...]ences before named, together with all these [...]euous plagues and iudgements of God vp­ [...] their children, to the consuming of their [...]es, but from this their owne negligence, in [...]inging vp their children? for it is euen iust [...]th God, that seeing they haue offended him [...] the greatest blessings, they should be pla­ [...]ed with the same thing wherein they offen­ [...]d, with the greatest iudgements.

O you vnnaturall parents! the rich man in Luke. 16. 27. [...]ll shal rise vp against you, in the day of iudge­ [...]ent and condemne you: for he being in hell [...]d a care of his fathers house, that they might [...] forewarned: and therefore desired Abra­ [...] to send Lazarus to his Brethren, to testi­ [...] vnto them that they came not into that [...]ce of torment: but you will not admonish [...]r children, you will not teach them Moses [...]d the Prophets: and you will not shew them [...]e danger of Gods heauy displeasure hang­ [...]g ouer their heads, and therefore your owne [...]ildren shall be one of the furies of hell, to [...]ment you. The Lord open your eyes to [Page 336] foresee and flie these fearefull iudgements.

But if you will bring them vp well and ver­tuously, they shall be the better for it all their Prou. 22. 6. liues after: nay, the world to come shall reape this benefit: for such children as you now bring vp, such parents shall they be after when you are gone: & looke what parents you leaue behinde you, the like children againe shal they reare vp.

Wherefore, O you parents, you are eyther the making or the marring of the world: for if your children learne no good education at your hands, how should they be good fathers after you? and how should they leaue that to their posteritie, by the right of inheritance, which they neuer receiued from their Ance­stors?

To conclude this point (wee say) once a­gaine, Oh yee parents, endeauour to goe for­ward in this vertuous education of your chil­dren, and then (no doubt) God neyther shall, nor will hide any necessary secret or instructi­on from you, neyther will hee with-hold any good blessing from your posteritie: so shall ye be fathers of the faithfull, as Abraham was, if you will haue the same care, and practise the same diligence for your children and familie, that he did. Gen. 18. 17. 18. and 12. 2. 3.

Parents also haue to remember, that they shall commit an act very vnnaturall, iniurious, and vngodly, if they should vndeseruedly [Page 337] [...]inherit their eldest Sonne. For as nature in Disinheriting of the eldest Son is a thing very vnlawfull. 2. Chron. 21. 3. [...] her works, for the most part seemeth to [...]ke some one thing to be chiefe before all the [...]st, whereby the same is, and the rather conti­ [...]eth: so reason in the order of a familie, which [...]n imitation of a state ciuill, or body-politike, [...]swaded of experience and necessitie, that [...]e be one before the rest as chiefe. Whereby [...]y be conserued, that beautie of vnitie, and [...]mony, of concord, which the Almighty in [...]creation so wonderfully and diuersly teach­ [...], and our Sauiour himselfe, so carefully and [...]ecially commended to his Church. And [...]eof seemeth to come that preheminence more speciall regard, which the law of God Exod. 13. 1. 2. and 34. 19. 20. Num. 3. 13. & 18. 16. [...]e olde Testament appointed to his peo­ [...] the Israelites, to be obserued towards [...] first begotten sonne, and likewise some­ [...]at concerning other dumbe Creatures, [...]h first were brought forth into the [...]d.

By the ancient law of the Iewes, the eldest [...] double so much as the others, of the fathers [...]ds, and alone to the eldest pertained the [...]sing of the father, wherewith should seeme [...]ayes the heritage to goe and succeede: is manifest by the will of God in Deut. 21. [...] 16. 17. If a man haue two Wiues, one [...], and another hated, and they haue borne [...] Children, both the loued, and also the ha­ [...]: If the first borne be the sonne of the hated, [Page 338] then when the time commeth, that hee appointed his sonnes to be heyres of that which hee hath, hee may not make the sonne of the beloued first borne, before the son of the hated, which is the first borne: but hee shall acknowledge the sonne of the hated, which is the first borne, and giue them double portion of all that he hath: for hee is the first of his strength, and to him belongeth the right of the first borne.

The Patriarkes and other the seruants of God, although by diuine reuelation and other notice of the will of God, they were certified that they might marrie many or sundry wiues at one time, yet did they exclude from their heritage the prerogatiue of the blessing, all the children of those secondarie and after marri­ages. This appeareth in Gen. 21. 10. The son of the bond-woman shall not be heyre with my sonne Isaak: yet was hee the eldest, but was not the sonne of the first marriage, nor borne of a free-woman.

Also an heyre is the worke and institution of nature; and heritage is due to the sonne of na­ture, therefore it is so due that he must needes haue it; seeing those things which come by na­ture, or be vnnaturall, are not mutable or to be changed.

Moreouer, this name Heyre, which in a manner with all Nations is the eldest, is the successor of the law Nationall, besides the lawes natural & diuine. And that father who maketh [Page 339] [...]ther heire then is by these authorities ap­ [...]nted, cannot but expresse himselfe a rebell, [...] disobeying and contemning so great lawes [...] authorities, beginning a new law of his [...]e head contrarie thereunto. Then what is [...]e vniust, then to do contrarie to all laws, and [...]ewith to disobey the will of God, to per­ [...] the due order of discent, preferring the [...]nd marriage before the first, the younger [...]re the elder, the late of-spring before the [...] begotten, so much tendered & respected? [...]w as the greatest iniurie a father can doe to [...] sonne, is to disherit him: so is it the most [...]achfull blot or dammage, to suffer the in­ [...]ie and discredit of disherison.

For if the eldest sonne be worthy to be [...]ited in his fathers house, hee may be [...]ght not worthy to drawe breath out of [...] for that hee ought to be conuinced faul­ [...] in those crimes and hainous offences, [...]h be either repugnant to the dutie of a [...], or not meet for the profession of a Chri­ [...] namely, if hee strike or offer violence to [...] father: if hee oppresse him with some [...] wrong: if he seeke his death or destructi­ [...]y poysoning, or other wise: if he lie with Deut. 21. 18. &c. Gen. 35. 22. and 46. 3. 4. 1. Chro. 5. 1. [...]thers wife: If he will not suffer his father [...]ake his will: if hee be not of the true and [...]olike faith, but is conuinced to be an here­ [...], whereby his life and heritage is in hazard. [...]f he refuse to succour and deliuer his father [Page 340] out of prison, by his suertiship: or if he follow the trade and companie of such persons, as in the law be counted infamous, vile, and most dishonest: as Iuglers, Sorcerers, Coniurers Theeues, and Pirats. Or if he be an idiot, a mad man, a naturall, or lunatike person. Or if the fa­ther offering him a meet marriage vnder fiue and twentie yeares, hee refuse it, and delight to liue continually in whoredom, and filthy order of life: these and such like, be the causes that the ciuill or Ecclesiasticall lawes doe assigne.