Chapter IX: Front Matter (9)

Before the Queen's Highness came into this pageant, she required the matter somewhat to be opened unto her; that Her Grace might the better understand what should, afterward, by the child, be said unto her. Which was so, that the City had there erected the pageant with eight children, representing the Eight Blessings touched in the Fifth Chapter of _St. Matthew_; whereof every one, upon just considerations, was applied unto Her Highness. And that the people thereby put Her Grace in mind, that as her good doings before, had given just occasion why that these Blessings might fall upon her; that so, if Her Grace did continue in her goodness, as she had entered, she should hope for the fruit of these Promises, due unto them that do exercise themselves in the Blessings.

Which Her Grace heard marvellously graciously, and required that the chariot might be removed towards the pageant, that she might perceive the child's words: which were these, the Queen's Majesty giving most attentive ear, and requiring that the people's noise might be stayed.

Thou hast been eight times blest! O Queen of worthy fame!
By Meekness in thy spirit, when care did thee beset!
By Mourning in thy grief! by Mildness in thy blame!
By Hunger and by Thirst, and justice couldst none get!

By Mercy showed, not felt! by Cleanness of thy heart!
By seeking Peace always! by Persecution wrong!
Therefore, trust thou in GOD! since He hath helped thy smart!
That, as His Promise is, so He will make thee strong!

When these words were spoken, all the people wished that "As the child had spoken, so GOD would strengthen Her Grace against all her adversaries!" whom the Queen's Majesty did most gently thank, for their so loving wish.

* * * * *

These Verses were painted on the left side of the said pageant; and other, in Latin, on the other side, which were these:

_Qui lugent hilares fient, qui mitia gestant_
_Pectora, multa soli jugera culta metent._
_Justitiam esuriens sitiensve replebitur, ipsum_
_Fas homini puro corde videre DEUM._
_Quem alterius miseret Dominus miserebitur hujus,_
_Pacificus quisquis, filius ille DEI est._
_Propter justitiam quisquis patietur habetque_
_Demissam mentem, cælica regna capit._
_Huic hominum generi terram, mare, sidera vovit_
_Omnipotens, horum quisque beatus erit_.

Besides these, every void place in the pageant was furnished with Sentences touching the matter and ground of the said pageant.

* * * * *

When all that was to be said in this pageant was ended; the Queen's Majesty passed on forward in Cheap side.

At the Standard in Cheap, which was dressed fair against the time, was placed a noise of trumpets, with banners and other furniture.

The Cross, likewise, was also made fair and well trimmed. And near unto the same, upon the porch of Saint Peter's Church door, stood the Waits of the City; which did give a pleasant noise with their instruments, as the Queen's Majesty did pass by. Who, on every side, cast her countenance, and wished well to all her most loving people.

Soon after that Her Grace passed the Cross, she had espied the pageant erected at the Little Conduit in Cheap; and incontinent required to know what it might signify. And it was told Her Grace, that there was placed TIME.

"TIME!" quoth she, "and Time hath brought me hither!" And so forth the whole matter was opened to Her Grace, as hereafter shall be declared in the description of the pageant. But when in the opening, Her Grace understood that the _Bible_ in English, should be delivered unto her by TRUTH (which was therein represented by a child), she thanked the City for that gift, and said that she would oftentimes read over that book; commanding Sir JOHN PARRAT, one of the knights which held up her canopy, to go before, and to receive it: but learning that it should be delivered unto Her Grace, down by a silken lace, she caused him to stay.

And so passed forward till she came against the Aldermen, in the high end of Cheap, tofore the Little Conduit; where the Companies of the City ended, which began at Fanchurch [_Fenchurch Street_] and stood along the streets, one by another, enclosed with rails hanged with cloths, and themselves well apparelled with many rich furs, and their Livery Hoods upon their shoulders, in comely and seemly manner; having before them sundry persons well apparelled in silks and chains of gold, as Whifflers and Guarders of the said Companies: besides a number of rich hangings (as well of tapestry, arras, cloths of gold, silver, velvet, damask, satin, and other silks) plentifully hanged all the way, as the Queen's Highness passed from the Tower through the City. Out at the windows and penthouses of every house did hang a number of rich and costly banners and streamers, till Her Grace came to the upper end of Cheap.

* * * * *

And there by appointment, the Right Worshipful Master RANULPH CHOLMELEY, Recorder of the City, presented to the Queen's Majesty, a purse of crimson satin, richly wrought with gold; wherein the City gave unto the Queen's Majesty a thousand marks in gold [_= £666 = about £5,000 now_]; as Master Recorder did declare briefly unto the Queen's Majesty. [_Compare the similar usual gift to her Mother 25 years before, at Vol. II. p. 48._] Whose words tended to this end, that "The Lord Mayor, his brethren and commonalty of the City, to declare their gladness and good will towards the Queen's Majesty, did present Her Grace with that gold; desiring Her Grace to continue their good and gracious Queen, and not to esteem the value of the gift, but the mind of the givers."

The Queen's Majesty, with both her hands took the purse, and answered to him again marvellously pithily; and so pithily that the standers by, as they embraced entirely her gracious answer, so they marvelled at the couching thereof: which was in words truly reported these. "I thank my Lord Mayor, his brethren, and you all! And whereas your request is, that I should continue your good Lady and Queen: be ye ensured that I will be as good unto you, as ever Queen was to her people! No will in me can lack! neither, do I trust, shall there lack any power! And persuade yourselves that, for the safety and quietness of you all, I will not spare, if need be, to shed my blood! GOD thank you all!"

Which answer of so noble hearted a Princess, if it moved a marvellous shout and rejoicing, it is nothing to be marvelled at; since both the heartiness thereof was so wonderful, and the words so jointly knit.

* * * * *

When Her Grace had thus answered the Recorder, she marched towards the Little Conduit; where was erected a pageant, with square proportion, standing directly before the same Conduit, with battlements accordingly. And in the same pageant were advanced two hills or mountains of convenient height.

The one of them, being on the north side of the same pageant, was made cragged, barren, and stony; in the which was erected one tree, artificially made, all withered and dead, with branches accordingly. And under the same tree, at the foot thereof, sat one, in homely and rude apparel, crookedly, and in mourning manner, having over his head in a table, written in Latin and English, his name, which was

+_RUINOSA RESPUBLICA_+,
+A DECAYED COMMON WEAL.+

And upon the same withered tree, were fixed certain tables wherein were written proper Sentences, expressing the causes of the Decay of the Common weal.

The other hill, on the south side, was made fair, fresh, green, and beautiful; the ground thereof full of flowers and beauty. And on the same was erected also one tree, very fresh and fair; under which, stood upright one fresh personage, well apparelled and appointed; whose name also was written, both in English and in Latin, which was

+_RESPUBLICA BENE INSTITUTA_+,
+A FLOURISHING COMMON WEAL.+

And upon the same tree also, were fixed certain tables containing Sentences, which expressed the causes of a Flourishing Common weal.

In the middle, between the said hills, was made artificially, one hollow place or cave, with door and lock enclosed; out of which, a little before the Queen's Highness's coming thither, issued one personage, whose name was TIME (apparelled as an old man, with a scythe in his hands, having wings artificially made), leading a personage, of less stature than himself, which was finely and well apparelled, all clad in white silk; and directly over her head was set her name and title, in Latin and English, TEMPORIS FILIA, THE DAUGHTER OF TIME.

Which two, so appointed, went forward, towards the south side of the pageant.

And on her breast was written her proper name, VERITAS, TRUTH; who held a book in her hand, upon the which was written, _Verbum Veritatis, The Word of Truth_.

And out of the south side of the pageant, was cast a standing for a child, which should interpret the same pageant.

* * * * *

Against whom, when the Queen's Majesty came, he spake unto Her Grace these words:

This old man with the scythe, old Father TIME they call:
And her, his daughter TRUTH, which holdeth yonder book;
Whom he out of his rock hath brought forth to us all,
From whence, these many years, she durst not once outlook.

The ruthful wight that sitteth under the barren tree,
Resembleth to us the form when Common weals decay;
But when they be in state triumphant, you may see
By him in fresh attire, that sitteth under the bay.

Now since that TIME again, his daughter TRUTH hath brought;
We trust, O worthy Queen! thou wilt this Truth embrace!
And since thou understandest the good estate and nought;
We trust Wealth thou wilt plant, and Barrenness displace!

But for to heal the sore, and cure that is not seen,
Which thing the Book of Truth doth teach in writing plain;
She doth present to thee, the same, O worthy Queen!
For that, that words do fly, but writing doth remain.

When the child had thus ended his speech, he reached his book towards the Queen's Majesty; which, a little before, TRUTH had let down unto him from the hill: which by Sir JOHN PARRAT was received, and delivered unto the Queen.

But she, as soon as she had received the book, kissed it; and with both her hands held up the same, and so laid it upon her breast; with great thanks to the City therefore. And so went forward toward Paul's Churchyard.

* * * * *

The former matter, which was rehearsed unto the Queen's Majesty, was written in two tables, on either side the pageant, eight verses: and in the midst, these in Latin.

_Ille, vides, falcem lava qui sustinet uncam,_
_TEMPUS is est, cui stat filia VERA comes;_
_Hanc pater exesa deductam rupe reponit_
_In lucem, quam non viderat ante diu._
_Qui sedet a læva cultu male tristis inepto,_
_Quem duris crescens cautibus orbis obit_
_Nos monet effigiæ, qua sit Respublica quando_
_Corruit, at contra quando beata viget,_
_Ille docet juvenis forma spectandus amictu_
_Scitus, et æterna laurea fronde virens._

The Sentences, written in Latin and English upon both the trees, declaring the causes of both estates, were these:

¶ +_CAUSES OF A RUINOUS COMMON_+
_+WEAL ARE THESE.+_

Want of the Fear of GOD.
Disobedience to rulers.
Blindness of guides.
Bribery in magistrates.
Rebellion in subjects.
Civil disagreement.
Flattering of Princes.
Unmercifulness in rulers.
Unthankfulness in subjects.

¶ +_CAUSES OF A FLOURISHING_+
+_COMMON WEAL._+

Fear of GOD.
A wise Prince.
Learned rulers.
Obedience to officers.
Obedient subjects.
Lovers of the Common Weal.
Virtue rewarded.
Vice chastened.

The matter of this pageant dependeth of them [_i.e., the pageants_] that went before. For, as the first declared Her Grace to come out of the House of Unity; the second, that she is placed in the Seat of Government, stayed with virtues to the suppression of vice; and therefore in the third, the Eight Blessings of Almighty GOD might well be applied unto her: so this fourth now, is to put Her Grace in remembrance of the state of the Common Weal, which TIME, with TRUTH his daughter, doth reveal: which TRUTH also, Her Grace hath received; and therefore cannot but be merciful and careful for the good government thereof.

* * * * *

From thence, the Queen's Majesty passed towards Paul's Churchyard.

And when she came over against Paul's School, a child appointed by the Schoolmaster thereof, pronounced a certain Oration in Latin, and certain Verses: which also were there written, as follows.

_Philosophus ille divinus PLATO, inter multa præclare ac
sapienter dicta, hoc posteris proditum reliquit, Rempublicam
illam felicissimam fore, cui Princeps sophiæ studiosa,
virtutibusque ornata contigerit. Quem si vere dixisse censeamus
(ut quidem verissime) cur non terra Britannica plauderet? cur
non populus gaudiam atque lætitiam agitaret? immo, cur non hunc
diem albo (quod aiunt) lapillo notaret? quo Princeps talis
nobis adest, qualem priores non viderunt, qualemque posteritas
haud facile cernere poterit, dotibus quum animi, tum corporis
undique felicissima. Casti quidem corporis dotes ita apertæ sunt,
ut oratione non egeant. Animi vero tot tantæque, ut ne verbis
quidem exprimi possint. Hæc nempe Regibus summis orta, morum
atque animi nobilitate genus exuperat. Hujus pectus CHRISTI
religionis amore flagrat. Hæc gentem Britannicum virtutibus
illustrabit, clipeoque justitiæ teget. Hæc literis Græcis et
Latinis eximia, ingenioque præpollens est. Hac imperante, pietas
vigebit, Anglia florebit, Aurea Secula redibunt. Vos igitur
Angli, tot commoda accepturi, ELIZABETHAM Reginam nostram
celeberrimam ab ipso CHRISTO hujus regni imperio destinatam,
honore debito prosequimini. Hujus imperiis animo libentissimo
subditi estote, vosque tali principe dignos præbete. Et quoniam,
pueri non viribus sed precibus officium prestare possunt, nos
Alumni hujus Scholæ ab ipso COLETO, olim Templi Paulini Decano,
extructæ, teneras palmas ad coelum tendentes CHRISTUM Opt. Maxi.
precaturi sumus, ut tuum celsitudinem annos NESTOREOS summo cum_
_honore Anglis imperitare faciat, matremque pignoribus charis_
_beatam reddat. Amen_.

_Anglia nunc tandem plaudas, lætare, re sulta,_
_Presto jam vita est, præsidiumque tibi._
_En tua spes venit tua gloria, lux, decus omne_
_Venit jam solidam quæ tibi prestat opem._
_Succurretque tuis rebus quæ pessum abiere._
_Perdita quæ fuerant hæc reparare volet_
_Omnia florebunt, redeunt nunc aurea secla._
_In melius surgent quæ cecidere bona._
_Debes ergo illi totam te reddere fidam,_
_Cujus in accessu commoda tot capies._
_Salve igitur dicas, imo de pectore summo._
_ELIZABETH Regni non dubitanda salus,_
_Virgo venit, veniatque optes comitata deinceps._
_Pignoribus charis, loeta parens veniat._
_Hoc DEUS omnipotens ex alto donet Olympo,_
_Qui cælum et terram condidit atque regit_.

Which the Queen's Majesty most attentively hearkened unto. And when the child had pronounced, he did kiss the Oration, which he had there fair written on paper, and delivered it unto the Queen's Majesty, which most gently received the same.

* * * * *

And when the Queen's Majesty had heard all that was there offered to be spoken; then Her Grace marched toward Ludgate: where she was received with a noise of instruments; the forefront of the Gate being finely trimmed against Her Majesty's coming.

From thence, by the way, as she went down toward Fleet Bridge, one about Her Grace, noted the City's charge, that "there was no cost spared."

Her Grace answered, that "She did well consider the same, and that it should be remembered!" An honourable answer, worthy a noble Prince: which may comfort all her subjects, considering there can be no point of gentleness or obedient love shewed towards Her Grace; which she doth not most tenderly accept, and graciously weigh.

* * * * *

In this manner, the people on either side rejoicing, Her Grace went forward towards the Conduit in Fleet Street, where was the fifth and last pageant, erected in the form following.

From the Conduit, which was beautified with painting, unto the north side of the street, was erected a Stage embattled with four towers, and in the same, a square plat rising with degrees.

Upon the uppermost degree was placed a Chair or royal Seat; and behind the same Seat, in curious artificial manner, was erected a tree of reasonable height, and so far advanced above the seat as it did well and seemly shadow the same, without endamaging the sight of any part of the pageant. And the same tree was beautified with leaves as green as Art could devise, being of a convenient greatness and containing thereupon the fruit of the date tree; and on the top of the same tree, in a table was set the name thereof, which was, _A Palm Tree_.

And in the aforesaid Seat or Chair was a seemly and meet personage, richly apparelled in Parliament robes, with a sceptre in her hand, as a Queen; crowned with an open crown: whose name and title were in a table fixed over her head in this sort, _DEBORAH, The Judge and Restorer of Israel_. Judic. 4.

And the other degrees, on either side, were furnished with six personages; two representing the Nobility, two the Clergy, and two the Commonalty. And before these personages, was written in a table,

+DEBORAH, WITH HER ESTATES,+
+CONSULTING FOR THE GOOD+
+GOVERNMENT OF ISRAEL.+

At the feet of these, and the lowest part of the pageant, was ordained a convenient room for a child to open the meaning of the pageant.

* * * * *

When the Queen's Majesty drew near unto this pageant; and perceived, as in the others, the child ready to speak: Her Grace required silence, and commanded her chariot to be removed nigher that she might plainly hear the child speak; which said, as hereafter followeth:

JABIN, of Canaan King, had long, by force of arms,
Oppressed the Israelites; which for GOD's People went:
But GOD minding, at last, for to redress their harms;
The worthy DEBORAH, as Judge among them sent.

In war, She, through GOD's aid, did put her foes to flight,
And with the dint of sword the band of bondage brast;
In peace, She, through GOD's aid, did always maintain right
And judgèd Israel, till forty years were past.

A worthy precedent, O worthy Queen! thou hast!
A worthy woman, Judge! a woman sent for Stay!
And that the like to us, endure always thou may'st;
Thy loving subjects will, with true hearts and tongues, pray!

Which verses were written upon the pageant: and the same in Latin also.

_Quando DEI populum Canaan, rex pressit JABIN,_
_Mittitur a magno DEBORA magna DEO:_
_Quæ populum eriperet, sanctum servaret Judan,_
_Milite quæ patrio frangeret hostis opes._
_Hæc Domino mandante DEO lectissima fecit_
_Foemina, et adversos contudit ense viros._
_Hæc quater denos populum correxerat annos_
_Judicio, bello strenua, pace gravis._
_Sic, O sic, populum, belloque et pace, guberna!_
_DEBORA sis Anglis, ELIZABETHA tuis!_

The void places of the pageant were filled with pretty Sentences concerning the same matter.

The ground of this last pageant was, that forasmuch as the next pageant before, had set before Her Grace's eyes the Flourishing and Desolate States of a Common Weal; she might by this, be put in remembrance to consult for the worthy Government of her people; considering GOD, ofttimes, sent women nobly to rule among men, as DEBORAH which governed Israel in peace, the space of forty years; and that it behoveth both men and women so ruling, to use advice of good counsel.

* * * * *

When the Queen's Majesty had passed this pageant; she marched towards Temple Bar.

But at St. Dunstan's, where the children of the Hospital [_i.e., Christ's Hospital, now known as the Blue Coat School, see p. 246_], were appointed to stand with their Governors; Her Grace perceiving a child offered to make an oration unto her, stayed her chariot; and did cast up her eyes to heaven, as who should say, "I here see this merciful work towards the poor; whom I must, in the midst of my royalty, needs remember." And so, turned her face towards the child, which, in Latin, pronounced an Oration to this effect.

That after the Queen's Highness had passed through the City; and
had seen so sumptuous, rich, and noble spectacles of the citizens,
which declared their most hearty receiving and most joyous
welcoming of Her Grace into the same: this one Spectacle yet rested
and remained; which was the everlasting Spectacle of Mercy unto
the poor members of Almighty GOD, furthered by that famous and
most noble Prince, King HENRY VIII., Her Grace's Father; erected
by the City of London; and advanced by the most godly, virtuous,
and gracious Prince, King EDWARD VI., Her Grace's dear and loving
brother. Doubting nothing of the mercy of the Queen's most gracious
clemency: by the which they may not only be relieved and helped,
but also stayed and defended; and therefore incessantly, they would
pray and cry unto Almighty GOD for the long life and reign of Her
Highness, with most prosperous victory against her enemies.

The child, after he had ended his Oration, kissed the paper wherein the same was written, and reached it to the Queen's Majesty; who received it graciously both with words and countenance, declaring her gracious mind towards their relief.

* * * * *

From thence, Her Grace came to Temple Bar, which was dressed finely, with the two images of GOTMAGOT the Albion, and CORINEUS the Briton; two giants big in stature, furnished accordingly: which held in their hands, even above the gate, a table, wherein was written, in Latin verses, the effect of all the pageants which the City before had erected. Which Verses are these:

_Ecce sub aspectu jam contemplaberis uno_
_O Princeps populi sola columna tui!_
_Quicquid in immensa passim perspexeris urbe_
_Quæ cepere omnes unus hic arcus habet._
_Primus, te solio regni donavit aviti,_
_Hæres quippe tui vera parentis eras._
_Suppressis vitiis, domina virtute, Secundus,_
_Firmavit sedem regia virgo tuam._
_Tertius, ex omni posuit teparte beatam_
_Si, qua coepisti pergere velle, velis._
_Quarto, quid verum, Respublica Lapsa quid esset,_
_Quæ Florens staret te docuere tui._
_Quinto, magna loco monuit te DEBORA, missam_
_Cælitus in regni gaudia longa tui._
_Perge ergo Regina! tuæ spes unica gentis!_
_Hæc Postrema urbis suscipe Vota tuæ._
_"Vive diu! regnaque diu! virtutibus orna_
_Rem patriam, et populi spem tueare tui!_
_Sic, O sic petitur coelum! Sic itur in astra!_
_Hoc virtutis opus, cætera mortis erunt!"_

Which Verses were also written in English metre, in a lesse[r] table, as hereafter followeth.

Behold here, in one view, thou mayst see all that plain;
O Princess, to this thy people, the only stay!
What eachwhere thou hast seen in this wide town; again,
This one Arch, whatsoever the rest contained, doth say.

The First Arch, as true Heir unto thy Father dear,
Did set thee in thy Throne, where thy Grandfather sat!
The Second, did confirm thy Seat as Princess here;
Virtues now bearing sway, and Vices beat down flat!

The Third, if that thou wouldst go on as thou began,
Declareth thee to be blessed on every side!
The Fourth did open Truth, and also taught thee when
The Common Weal stood well, and when it did thence slide!

The Fifth, as DEBORAH, declared thee to be sent
From heaven, a long comfort to us thy subjects all!
Therefore, go on, O Queen! (on whom our hope is bent)
And take with thee, this wish of thy Town as final!

"Live long! and as long, reign! adorning thy country
With virtues; and maintain thy people's hope of thee!
For thus, thus heaven is won! thus, must thou pierce the sky!
This is by virtue wrought! All other must needs die!"

On the south side [_i.e., of Fleet Street, at Temple Bar_] was appointed by the City, a noise of singing children; and one child richly attired as a Poet, which gave the Queen's Majesty her Farewell, in the name of the whole City, by these words.

As at thine Entrance first, O Prince of high renown!
Thou wast presented with Tongues and Hearts for thy fair;
So now, sith thou must needs depart out of this Town,
This City sendeth thee firm Hope and earnest Prayer!

For all men hope in thee, that all virtues shall reign;
For all men hope that thou, none error wilt support;
For all men hope that thou wilt Truth restore again,
And mend that is amiss; to all good men's comfort!

And for this Hope, they pray thou mayst continue long
Our Queen amongst us here, all vice for to supplant!
And for this Hope, they pray that GOD may make thee strong,
As by His grace puissant, so in His truth constant!

Farewell! O worthy Queen! and as our hope is sure,
That into Error's place, thou wilt now Truth restore!
So trust we that thou wilt our sovereign Queen endure
And loving Lady stand, from henceforth, evermore!

While these words were in saying, and certain wishes therein repeated for the maintenance of Truth, and rooting out of Error; she, now and then, held up her hands to heaven-ward, and willed the people to say "Amen!"

When the child had ended, she said, "Be ye well assured, I will stand your good Queen!"

At which saying, Her Grace departed forth, through Temple Bar towards Westminster, with no less shooting [_i.e., firing of guns_] and crying of the people, than, when she entered the City, with a great noise of ordnance which the Tower shot off, at Her Grace's entrance first into Tower Street.

* * * * *

The child's saying was also, in Latin verses, written in a table which was hanged up there.

_O Regina potens! quum primam urbem ingredereris_
_Dona tibi, Linguas fidaque Corda dedit._
_Discedenti etiam tibi nunc duo munera mittit,_
_Omina plena Spei, votaque plena Precum._
_Quippe tuis Spes est, in te quod provida virtus_
_Rexerit, errori nec locus ullus erit._
_Quippe tuis Spes est, quod ut verum omne reduces_
_Solatura bonas, dum mala tollis, opes._
_Hac Spe freti orant, longum ut Regina gubernes,_
_Et regni excindas crimina cuncta tui._
_Hac Spe freti orant, divina ut gratia fortem,_
_Et veræ fidei te velit esse basin._
_Jam, Regina, vale! et sicut nos spes tenet una,_
_Quod vero indueto, perditus error erit._
_Sic quoque speramus quod eris Regina benigna_
_Nobis per regni tempora longa tui!_

Thus the Queen's Highness passed through the City! which, without any foreign person, of itself, beautified itself; and received Her Grace at all places, as hath been before mentioned, with most tender obedience and love, due to so gracious a Queen, and sovereign Lady.

And Her Grace likewise, of her side, in all Her Grace's Passage, shewed herself generally an Image of a worthy Lady and Governor; but privately these especial points were noted in Her Grace, as signs of a most Prince-like courage, whereby her loving subjects may ground a sure hope for the rest of her gracious doings hereafter.

_Certain Notes of the Queen's Majesty's great mercy, clemency, and wisdom used in this Passage._

About the nether end of Cornhill, toward Cheap, one of the Knights about Her Grace, had espied an ancient Citizen which wept, and turned his head back. And therewith said this Gentleman, "Yonder is an Alderman," for so he termed him, "which weepeth, and turneth his face backward! How may it be interpreted that he doth so? For sorrow! or for gladness?"

The Queen's Majesty heard him; and said, "I warrant you, it is for gladness!" A gracious interpretation of a noble courage, which would turn the doubtful to the best. And yet it was well known, that (as Her Grace did confirm the same) the party's cheer was moved, for very pure gladness for the sight of Her Majesty's person; at the beholding whereof, he took such comfort, that with tears he expressed the same.

In Cheapside, Her Grace smiled; and being thereof demanded the cause, answered, "For that she had heard one say, _Remember old King HENRY VIII!_" A natural child! which at the very remembrance of her father's name took so great a joy; that all men may well think that as she rejoiced at his name whom this Realm doth hold of so worthy memory, so, in her doings, she will resemble the same.

When the City's charge without partiality, and only the City, was mentioned unto Her Grace; she said, "It should not be forgotten!" Which saying might move all natural Englishmen heartily to shew due obedience and entireness to their so good a Queen, which will, in no point, forget any parcel of duty lovingly shewed unto her.

The answer which Her Grace made unto Master Recorder of London, as the hearers know it to be true and with melting hearts heard the same, so may the reader thereof conceive what kind of stomach and courage pronounced the same.

What more famous thing do we read in ancient histories of old time, than that mighty Princes have gently received presents offered them by base and low personages. If that be to be wondered at, as it is passingly! let me see any writer that in any one Prince's life is able to recount so many precedents of this virtue, as Her Grace shewed in that one Passage through the City. How many nosegays did Her Grace receive at poor women's hands? How ofttimes stayed she her chariot, when she saw any simple body offer to speak to Her Grace? A branch of rosemary given to Her Grace, with a supplication, by a poor woman, about Fleet Bridge, was seen in her chariot till Her Grace came to Westminster; notwithstanding the marvellous wondering of such as knew the presenter, and noted the Queen's most gracious receiving and keeping the same.

What hope the poor and needy may look for, at Her Grace's hand; she, as in all her journey continually, so in her hearkening to the poor children of Christ's Hospital, with eyes cast up unto heaven, did fully declare; as that neither the wealthier estate could stand without consideration had to the poverty, neither the poverty be duly considered unless they were remembered, as commanded to us by GOD's own mouth.

As at her first Entrance, she, as it were, declared herself prepared to pass through a City that most entirely loved her; so she, at her last Departing, as it were, bound herself by promise to continue good Lady and Governor unto that City, which, by outward declaration, did open their love to their so loving and noble Prince, in such wise as she herself wondered thereat.

* * * * *

But because Princes be set in their Seat by GOD's appointment, and therefore they must first and chiefly render the glory of Him from whom their glory issueth; it is to be noted in Her Grace, that, forasmuch as GOD hath so wonderfully placed her in the Seat of Government over this realm; she in all doings, doth shew herself most mindful of His goodness and mercy shewed unto her. And amongst all other, two principal signs thereof were noted in this Passage.

First, in the Tower: where Her Grace, before she entered her chariot, lifted up her eyes to heaven, and said:

O LORD! Almighty and everlasting GOD! I give Thee most hearty
thanks, that as Thou hast been so merciful unto me, as to spare me
to behold this joyful day! And I acknowledge that Thou hast dealt
as wonderfully and mercifully with me, as Thou didst with thy true
and faithful servant DANIEL, the prophet; whom thou deliveredst
out of the den, from the cruelty of the greedy and raging lions:
even so, was I overwhelmed, and only by Thee! delivered. To Thee!
therefore, only, be thanks, honour, and praise for ever! Amen.

The second was, the receiving of the _Bible_, at the Little Conduit, in Cheap. For when Her Grace had learned that the _Bible_ in English, should there be offered; she thanked the City therefore, promised the reading thereof most diligently, and incontinent commanded that it should be brought. At the receipt whereof, how reverently, she did, with both her hands, take it! kiss it! and lay it on her breast! to the great comfort of the lookers on!

GOD will undoubtedly preserve so worthy a Prince; which, at His honour, so reverently taketh her beginning. For this saying is true, and written in the Book of Truth: "He that first seeketh the Kingdom of GOD, shall have all other things cast unto him."

Now, therefore, all English hearts, and her natural people must needs praise GOD's mercy, which hath sent them so worthy a Prince; and pray for Her Grace's long continuance amongst us.

#Imprinted at London in Fleet Street#
#within Temple Bar, at the sign of the#
#Hand and Star, by Richard Tottill,#
#the .rriii. day of January.#
[1559]

Rev. +WILLIAM HARRISON+, B.D.

Canon of Windsor, and Rector of
Radwinter.

_ELIZABETH arms England, which MARY_
_had left defenceless._

[Book II., Chap. 16 of _Description of England_, in HOLINSHED's
_Chronicle_. Ed. 1587[-8]. Reprinted by F. J. FURNIVALL, M.A., for
_New Shakspere Society_, _p._ 278, Ed. 1877.]

How well, and how strongly our country hath been furnished, in times past, with armour and artillery, it lieth not in me, as of myself to make rehearsal.

Yet that it lacked both, in the late time of Queen MARY; not only the experience of mine elders, but also the talk of certain Spaniards, not yet forgotten, did leave some manifest notice.

Upon the first, I need not stand: for few will deny it.

For the second, I have heard that when one of the greatest Peers of Spain [_evidently in Queen MARY's reign_] espied our nakedness in this behalf, and did solemnly utter in no obscure place, that "It should be an easy matter, in short time, to conquer England; because it wanted armour!" his words were then not so rashly uttered, as they were politicly noted.

For, albeit, that, for the present time, their efficacy was dissembled; and semblance made as though he spake but merrily: yet at the very Entrance of this our gracious Queen unto the possession of the Crown, they were so providently called to remembrance, and such speedy reformation sought, of all hands, for the redress of this inconveniency, that our country was sooner furnished with armour and munition from divers parts of the main [_the Continent_], besides great plenty that was forged here at home, than our enemies could get understanding of any such provision to be made.

By this policy also, was the no small hope conceived by Spaniards utterly cut off; who (of open friends, being now become our secret enemies; and thereto watching a time wherein to achieve some heavy exploit against us and our country) did thereupon change their purposes: whereby England obtained rest; that otherwise might have been sure of sharp and cruel wars.

Thus a Spanish word uttered by one man at one time, overthrew, or, at the least, hindered sundry privy practices of many at another time.

* * * * *

In times past, the chief force of England consisted in their long bows. But now we have in manner generally given over that kind of artillery, and for long bows indeed, do practice to shoot compass for our pastime; which kind of shooting can never yield any smart stroke, nor beat down our enemies, as our countrymen were wont to do, at every time of need. Certes, the Frenchmen and Reitters [_i.e., Reiters, the German or Swiss Lance-knights_] deriding our new archery, in respect of their corslets, will not let, in open skirmish, if any leisure serve, to turn up their tails, and cry, "Shoot, English!" and all because our strong shooting is decayed, and laid in bed.

But if some of our Englishmen now lived, that served King EDWARD III. in his wars with France: the breech of such a varlet had been nailed to his back with one arrow; and another feathered in his bowels, before he should have turned about to see who shot the first.

But as our shooting is thus, in manner, utterly decayed among us one way: so our countrymen wax skilful in sundry other points; as in shooting in small pieces, the caliver, and handling of the pike; in the several uses whereof, they are become very expert.

Our armour differeth not from that of other nations; and therefore consisteth of corslets, almain rivets, shirts of mail, jacks quilted and covered with leather, fustian, or canvas over thick plates of iron that are sewed in the same. Of which, there is no town or village that hath not her convenient furniture. The said armour and munition likewise is kept in one several place of every town, appointed by the consent of the whole parish; where it is always ready to be had and worn within an hour's warning.

Sometimes also it is occupied [_used_], when it pleaseth the magistrate, either to view the able men and take note of the well keeping of the same; or finally to see those that are enrolled, to exercise each one his several weapon: at the charge of the townsmen of each parish, according to his appointment. Certes there is almost no village so poor in England, be it never so small, that hath not sufficient furniture in a readiness to set forth three or four soldiers (as, one archer, one gunner, one pike, and a bill-man), at the least. No, there is not so much wanting as their very liveries [_uniforms_] and caps; which are least to be accounted of, if any haste required. So that if this good order continue, it shall be impossible for the sudden enemy to find us unprovided.

As for able men for service, thanked be GOD! we are not without good store. For by the Musters taken in 1574 and 1575, our number amounted to 1,172,674; and yet they were not so narrowly taken, but that a third part of this like multitude was left unbilled and uncalled.

What store of munition and armour, the Queen's Majesty hath in her storehouses, it lieth not in me to yield account; sith I suppose the same to be infinite. And whereas it was commonly said, after the loss of Calais, that England would never recover the store of ordnance there left and lost; the same is proved false: since some of the same persons do now confess that this land was never better furnished with these things in any King's days, since the Conquest.

The names of our greatest ordnance are commonly these:

_Robinet_, whose weight is 200 lbs.; and it hath 1-1/4 inches
within the mouth.

_Falconet_, weighing 500 lbs., and his wideness is 2 inches within
the mouth.

_Falcon_ hath 800 lbs., and 2-1/2 inches within the mouth.

_Minion_ poiseth [_weigheth_] 1,100 lbs., and hath 3-1/4 inches
within the mouth.

_Sacre_ hath 1,500 lbs., and is 3-1/2 inches wide in the mouth.

_Demi-Culverin_ weigheth 3,000 lbs., and hath 4-1/2 inches within
the mouth.

_Culverin_ hath 4,000 lbs., and 5-1/2 inches within the mouth.

_Demi-Cannon_, 6,000 lbs., and 6-1/2 inches within the mouth.

_Cannon_, 7,000 lbs., and 8 inches within the mouth.

_E. Cannon_, 8,000 lbs., and 7 inches within the mouth.

_Basilisk_, 9,000 lbs., and 8-3/4 inches within the mouth.

By which proportions, also, it is easy to come by the weight of every shot, how many scores [_i.e., of yards_] it doth fly at point blank, how much powder is to be had to the same, and finally how many inches in height, each bullet ought to carry.

The names of the Weight of Scores [of Pounds of Height of
Great Ordnance the Shot. yards] of Powder. Bullet.
hath lbs. carriage. Inches.

_Robinet_ 1 10 1/2 1

_Falconet_ 2 14 2 1-1/4

_Falcon_ 2-1/2 16 2-1/2 2-1/4

_Minion_ 4-1/2 17 4-1/2 3

_Sacre._ 5 18 5 3-1/4

_Demi-Culverin_ 9 20 9 4

_Culverin_ 18 25 18 5-1/4

_Demi-Cannon_ 30 38 28 6-3/4

_Cannon_ 60 20 44 7-3/4

_E. Cannon_ 42 20 20 6-3/4

_Basilisk_ 60 21 60 8-1/4

As for the Armouries of some of the Nobility (whereof I also have seen a part), they are so well furnished, that within some one Baron's custody, I have seen three score or a hundred corslets at once; besides calivers, hand-guns, bows, sheafs of arrows, pikes, bills, pole-axes, flasks, touch-boxes, targets, &c.: the very sight whereof appalled my courage.

* * * * *

Seldom shall you see any of my countrymen, above eighteen or twenty years old, to go without a dagger at the least, at his back or by his side; although they be aged burgesses or magistrates of any city who, in appearance, are most exempt from brabling and contention.

Our Nobility commonly wear swords or rapiers, with their daggers; as doth every common serving man also that followeth his lord and master.

* * * * *

Finally, no man travelleth by the way, without his sword or some such weapon, with us; except the Minister, who commonly weareth none at all, unless it be a dagger or hanger at his side.

_ALCILIA:_

_PHILOPARTHEN's_

_Loving Folly._

_Non Deus (ut perhibent) amor est, sed_
_amaror, et error._

AT LONDON.

_Printed by R. R. for William Mattes,_
dwelling in Fleet street, at the sign of the
_Hand and Plough._
1595.

[The only copy of the 1595 edition, at present known, is in the
City Library, at Hamburg.

It was recovered, and reprinted in 1875 by Herr WILHELM WAGNER,
Ph.D., in Vol. X. of the _Deutschen Shakespeare-Gesellschaft
Jahrbuch_; copies of this particular text being also separately
printed.

A limited Subscription edition, of fifty-one copies, was printed by
Rev. A. B. GROSART, LL.D., F.S.A., of Blackburn, in 1879: with a
fresh collation of the text by B. S. LEESON, Esq., of Hamburg.

The present modernized text is based on a comparison of the above
two reprints of the 1595 edition with the text of the London
edition of 1613 in which some headings (herein inserted between [],
on _pp._ 256, 276, 278) first occur.]

_A Letter written by a Gentleman to the_
_Author, his friend._

+FRIEND PHILOPARTHEN+,

In perusing your Loving Folly, and your Declining from it; I do behold Reason conquering Passion. The infirmity of loving argueth you are a man; the firmness thereof, discovereth a good wit and the best nature: and the falling from it, true virtue. Beauty was always of force to mislead the wisest; and men of greatest perfection have had no power to resist Love. The best are accompanied with vices, to exercise their virtues; whose glory shineth brightest in resisting motives of pleasure, and in subduing affections. And though I cannot altogether excuse your Loving Folly; yet I do the less blame you, in that you loved such a one as was more to be commended for her virtue, than beauty: albeit even for that too, she was so well accomplished with the gifts of Nature as in mine conceit (which, for good cause, I must submit as inferior to yours) there was nothing wanting, either in the one or the other, that might add more to her worth, except it were a more due and better regard of your love; which she requited not according to your deserts, nor answerable to herself in her other parts of perfection. Yet herein it appeareth you have made good use of Reason; that being heretofore lost in youthful vanity, have now, by timely discretion, found yourself!

Let me entreat you to suffer these your Passionate Sonnets to be published! which may, peradventure, make others, possessed with the like Humour of Loving, to follow your example, in leaving; and move other ALCILIAS (if there be any) to embrace deserving love, while they may!

Hereby, also, she shall know, and, it may be, inwardly repent the loss of your love, and see how much her perfections are blemished by ingratitude; which will make your happiness greater by adding to your reputation, than your contentment could have been in enjoying her love. At the least wise, the wiser sort, however in censuring them, they may dislike of your errors; yet they cannot but commend and allow of your reformation: and all others that shall with indifferency read them, may reap thereby some benefit, or contentment.

Thus much I have written as a testimony of the good will I bear you! with whom I do suffer or rejoice according to the quality of your misfortune or good hap. And so I take my leave; resting, as always,

Yours most assured,
+PHILARETES.+

Author ipse ~philoparthenos~ ad
libellum suum.

_Parve liber Domini vanos dicture labores,_
_Insomnes noctes, sollicitosque dies,_
_Errores varios, languentis tædia vitæ,_
_Mærores certos, gaudia certa minus,_
_Peruigiles curas, suspiria, vota, querelas,_
_Et quæcunque pati dura coegit amor._
_I precor intrepidus, duram comiterque salutans_
_Hæc me ejus causa sustinuisse refer._
_Te grato excipiet vultu rubicundula, nomen_
_Cum titulo inscriptum viderit esse suum._
_Forsitan et nostri miserebitur ilia doloris,_
_Dicet et, ah quantum deseruisse dolet:_
_Seque nimis soevam, crudelemque ipsa vocabit,_
_Cuinon est fidei debita cura meæ;_
_Quod siquidem eveniet, Domino solaminis illud,_
_Et tibi supremi muneris instar erit._
_Si quis (ut est æquum) fatuos damnaverit ignes,_
_Pigritiæ fructus ingeniique levis:_
_Tu Dominum cæcis tenebris errasse, sed ipsum_
_Erroris tandem pænituisse sui,_
_Me quoque re vera nec tot, nec tanta tulisse,_
_Sed ficta ad placitum multa fuisse refer._
_Ab quanto satius (nisi mens mihi vana) fuisset_
_Ista meo penitus delituisse sinu:_
_Quam levia in lucem prodire, aut luce carentis_
_Insanam Domini prodere stultitiam._
_Nil amor est aliud, quam mentis morbus et error._
_Nil sapienter agit, nil bene, quisquis amat._
_Sed non cuique datur sapere, aut melioribus uti,_
_Forte erit alterius, qui meus error erat._
_Cautior incedit, qui nunquam labitur, atqui_
_Jam proprio evadam cautior ipse malo._
_Si cui delicto gravior mea poena videtur;_
_Illius in laudes officiosus eris._
_Te si quis simili qui carpitur igne videbit,_
_Ille suam sortem flebit, et ille meam._
_ALCILIÆ obsequium supplex præstare memento,_
_Non minima officii pars erit illa tui._
_Te fortasse sua secura recondet in arca,_
_Et Solis posthæc luminis orbus eris._
_Nil referet, fateor me non prudenter amasse;_
_Ultima deceptæ sors erit illa spei._
_Bis proprio PHOEBUS cursu lustraverat orbem,_
_Conscius erroris, stultitioeque meæ,_
_A quo primus amor coepit penetrare medullas,_
_Et falsa accensos nutriit arte focos._
_Desino jam nugas amplecti, seria posthæc_
_(Ut Ratio monet) ac utiliora sequor._

_Amoris Præludium._

[_Vel, Epistola ad Amicam._]

To thee, ALCILIA! solace of my youth!
These rude and scattered rhymes I have addressed!
The certain Witness of my Love and Truth,
That truly cannot be in words expressed:
Which, if I shall perceive thou tak'st in gree,
I will, from henceforth, write of none but thee!

Here may you find the wounds yourself have made!
The many sorrows, I have long sustained!
Here may you see that LOVE must be obeyed!
How much I hoped, how little I have gained!
That as for you, the pains have been endured;
Even so by you, they may, at length, be cured!

I will not call for aid to any Muse
(It is for learned Poets so to do):
Affection must, my want of Art excuse,
My works must have their patronage from You!
Whose sweet assistance, if obtain I might!
I should be able both to speak and write.

[Sidenote: Nemini datur amare simul et sapere.]

Meanwhile, vouchsafe to read this, as assigned
To no man's censure; but to yours alone!
Pardon the faults, that you therein shall find;
And think the writer's heart was not his own!
Experience of examples daily prove
"That no man can be well advised, and love!"

And though the work itself deserve it not
(Such is your Worth, with my great Wants compared!);
Yet may my love unfeignèd, without spot,
Challenge so much (if more cannot be spared!).
Then, lovely Virgin! take this in good part!
The rest, unseen, is sealed up in the heart.

Judge not by this, the depth of my affection!
Which far exceeds the measure of my skill;
But rather note herein your own perfection!
So shall appear my want of Art, not will:
Wherefore, this now, as part in lieu of greater,
I offer as an insufficient debtor!

_Sic incipit Stultorum Tragicomedia._

It was my chance, unhappy chance to me!
As, all alone, I wandered on my way;
Void of distrust, from doubt of dangers free,
To pass a grove where LOVE in ambush lay;
Who aiming at me with his feathered dart,
Conveyed it by mine eye unto my heart.

Where, retchless boy! he let the arrow stick,
When I, as one amazèd, senseless stood.
The hurt was great, yet seemèd but a prick!
The wound was deep, and yet appeared no blood!
But inwardly it bleeds. Proof teacheth this.
When wounds do so, the danger greater is.

Pausing a while, and grievèd with my wound,
I looked about, expecting some relief:
Small hope of help, no ease of pain I found.
Like, all at once, to perish in my grief:
When hastily, I pluckèd forth the dart;
But left the head fast fixèd in my heart.

Fast fixèd in my heart, I left the head,
From whence I doubt it will not be removed.
Ah, what unlucky chance that way me led?
O LOVE! thy force thou might'st elsewhere have proved!
And shewed thy power, where thou art not obeyed!
"The conquest's small, where no resist is made."

But nought, alas, avails it to complain;
I rest resolved, with patience to endure.
The fire being once dispersed through every vein,
It is too late to hope for present cure.
Now PHILOPARTHEN must new follies prove,
And learn a little, what it is to love!

_These Sonnets following were written by the Author_
_(who giveth himself this feigned name of PHILOPARTHEN_
_as his accidental attribute), at divers times, and upon_
_divers occasions; and therefore in the form and_
_matter they differ, and sometimes are quite_
_contrary one to another: which ought not to_
_be misliked, considering the very nature_
_and quality of Love; which is_
_a Passion full of variety,_
_and contrariety_
_in itself._

I.

[Sidenote: _Ut vidi, ut perii, ut me malus abstulit error._]

Vnhappy Eyes! that first my heart betrayed,
Had you not seen, my grief had not been such!
And yet, how may I, justly, you upbraid!
Since what I saw delighted me so much?
But hence, alas, proceedeth all my smart:
Unhappy Eyes! that first betrayed my heart!

II.

To seek adventures, as Fate hath assigned,
My slender Bark now floats upon the main;
Each troubled thought, an Oar; each sigh, a Wind,
Whose often puffs have rent my Sails in twain.
LOVE steers the Boat, which (for that sight, he lacks)
Is still in danger of ten thousand wracks.

III.

What sudden chance hath changed my wonted cheer,
Which makes me other than I seem to be?
My days of joy, that once were bright and clear,
Are turned to nights! my mirth, to misery!
Ah, well I ween that somewhat is amiss;
But, sooth to say, I know not what it is!

IV.

What, am I dead? Then could I feel no smart!
But still in me the sense of grief reviveth.
Am I alive? Ah, no! I have no heart;
For she that hath it, me of life depriveth.
O that she would restore my heart again;
Or give me hers, to countervail my pain!

V.

If it be Love, to waste long hours in grief;
If it be Love, to wish, and not obtain;
If it be Love, to pine without relief;
If it be Love, to hope and never gain;
Then may you think that he hath truly loved,
Who, for your sake! all this and more, hath proved!

VI.

If that, in ought, mine eyes have done amiss;
Let them receive deservèd punishment!
For so the perfect rule of Justice is,
Each for his own deeds, should be praised, or shent.
Then, doubtless, is it both 'gainst Law and Sense,
My Heart should suffer for mine Eyes' offence.

VII.

I am not sick, and yet I am not sound;
I eat and sleep, and yet, methinks, I thrive not.
I sport and laugh, and yet my griefs abound;
I am not dead, and yet, methinks, I live not.
"What uncouth cause hath these strange passions bred,
To make at once, sick, sound, alive, and dead?"

VIII.

Something I want; but what, I cannot say.
O, now I know! It is myself I want!
My Love, with her, hath ta'en my heart away;
Yea, heart and all, and left me very scant.
"Such power hath Love, and nought but Love alone,
To make divided creatures live in one."

IX.

PHILOPARTHEN. "Come, gentle Death! and strike me with thy dart!
Life is but loathsome to a man opprest."
DEATH. "How can I kill thee! when thou hast no heart?
That which thou hadst, is in another's breast!"
PHILOPARTHEN. "Then, must I live, and languish still in pain?"
DEATH. "Yea, till thy Love restore thy heart again!"

X.

Were Love a Fire, my tears might quench it lightly;
Or were it Water, my hot heart might dry it.
If Air, then might it pass away more slightly;
Or were it Earth, the world might soon descry it.
If Fire nor Water, Air nor Earth it be;
What then is it, that thus tormenteth me?

XI.

To paint her outward shape and gifts of mind,
It doth exceed my wit and cunning far.
She hath no fault, but that she is unkind.
All other parts in her so complete are,
That who, to view them throughly would devise,
Must have his body nothing else but eyes.

XII.