A. D. 1680.
Jan. 1. Mr. Sharp, from Jer. xxx. 7, showed what reason
we have to expect and therefore provide for such a day as the Prophet
speaks of: how many present themselves as a new year's gift to Satan
by their vain mirth and jollity upon this day, which custom was derived
from the Heathens, who then sacrificed to their idol Janus: but we should
labour to present ourselves as a spotless sacrifice to God.
14. At court most of the forenoon about the poor pensioners' business,
for whose advantage my dearest father was pleased to take the trouble
of being treasurer. Dined with several friends at old cousin Milner's,
rejoicing with him for his son's return ; but came away timely, being
to give in the accounts at the Mayor's, which I did accordingly, and
Mr. L. was substituted in my father's place.
22. At Wakefield, returned early, but in a sad, melancholy and troubled
humour, the remembrance of my inexpressible loss seizing deeply upon
my spirits; went to bed with wet cheeks and a sad heart, dreamed troublesomely
and somewhat remarkably about following my dear father to his long home.
24. After dinner rode to Beeston to see the most dreadful spectacle
that was ever beheld in these parts. Mr. Scurr, his mother, and a maid
servant, every one burnt to death last Thursday, at night between eleven
and one o'clock, but whether accidentally, or designedly by the malice
of some, (whom perhaps he was in suit with) is yet uncertain. The old
gentlewoman was most burnt; her face, legs, and feet quite consumed
to ashes, the trunk of her body much burnt, her heart hanging as a coal
out of the midst of it! Part of his face and arms, with the whole body
unburnt, but as black as the coals, his hands and feet quite consumed.
Very little of the maid was to be found, only I saw her head ; a most
piteous sight! Some observe all their skulls are broken, as it were,
in the same place, which causes some to suspect it is wilfully done
; but if so, the Lord will reveal it, so that in all probability those
inhuman murderers may have their deserts in this life.
25. Die Dom. Mr. Kay, Coloss. iii. 12, discoursed very well of good
works: though faith be the life of the soul, yet good works are as the
breath by which it is perceived; and showed, as a motive to charity,
that to lay it out upon pious occasions is the only means to secure
any thing to us : we shall never be poorer for what is expended in pious
uses. Mr. Whateley, late minister of Banbury, eminent for his charity,
seriously protested, that after he begun his charitable course he had
much increased his estate ; formerly he was often forced to borrow 10l.
and could not make both ends of the year meet, but after could have
lent 100l., and imputed it to the blessing of God upon his charity—he
gave the tenth part, both of his spiritual and temporal means, to the
poor. The other instance was Dr. Hammond, that worthy assertor of alms,
who was taxed for rather overdoing in pity and compassion, yet increased
so that he died worth 1500l. &c. Mr. Sharp, Matthew xii. 21.
Feb. 7. Perusing authors concerning Bradford the meekest,
and Ridley the learnedest Marian martyr.
9. Mostly employed with aunt Alice; went to Wakefield with her, and
thence with cousin Benjamin Wordsworth to Swaith Hall.
11 Rid with cousins to Barnsley.
12. To Wakefield, and so, Laus Deo! returned well home again ; but though
very kindly entertained and reasonably cheerful when abroad, yet a trouble,
sorrow, and a deep sense of my present doleful, fatherless condition
almost overwhelmed me at my return, mourning heavily all night long,
and,
13. This day likewise, even to excess, and the prejudice of health.
March 4. At Wakefield, but returned soon to Holbeck, and found uncle much
better, Laus Deo! Perusing of Philpot, &c. Lord! imprint the good
examples of thy faithful servants so fully in my mind, that I may imitate
them in my life; and if that bloody religion should, as a plague for
our sins, be again established in these lands, good Lord! for Christ's
sake, strengthen me by thy grace, that if thou callest for it, I may
cheerfully suffer for thy name and truth's sake.
10. About six this morning, my dear uncle Thomas Idle departed this
life, changing this frail for an immortal, glorious life: it was the
greatest satisfaction imaginable to me to observe, as his bodily strength
decayed, so his faith increased ; expressing himself very feelingly
and comfortably, that he was even unwilling to abide any longer in this
world, that was so full of trouble and sorrow; and Protesting, and it
was (as himself said) no time to dissemble at death, that to his knowledge
he had never in his whole life wronged any man. He carried himself with
extraordinary patience; and my good aunt Lucy coming in, he shook her
by the hand, blessing God for that grace of patience now in his greatest
extremity, saying, that all his life long he dreaded the want of patience
to undergo these pangs of death. But now he was very remarkable for
it, called his children and myself, gave good advice, testifying his
great love and affection to me, &c. He called for all the servants,
and gave them seasonable advice.
12. All day at Holbeck, assisting to my utmost at dear uncle's funeral;
but such vast multitudes, what bidden and what unbidden, that abundance
of confusion must unavoidably happen. (Of 130 dozen of cakes not one
left.)
14. Die Dom. Mr. Kay, Coloss. iii. 15. Mr. Sharp from . . . preached
extraordinarily well, as a funeral sermon for dear uncle; but extreme
sorrow, partly for uncle, but most violent in remembrance of my dear
father, would not permit me to Write. He showed, that it is the greatest
comfort and support under the afflicting hand of God, to consider that
Christ will bring with him, at the great day, all our dear relations
that now sleep with him.
20. Reading a funeral Sermon for the Countess Dowager of Warwick, (deceased
April, 1679,) a most virtuous, religious lady: I was mightily taken
with her pious Diary, religious life, heavenly meditations, &c.
26 A great part of the day with Dr. Johnston, of Pontefract, who gave
me good advice as to my health, and encouragement as to my studies;
was pleased to adopt me his son as to antiquities.
31. At Woodkirk, Howley Hall, and Batley Church, writing the epitaph
of the famous Sir John Savile.
April 4. Die Dom. Mr. Kay, Colos. iii. 16, showed,
that we ought to attend to the word of God with reverence and attention
; to hearing it preached and reading it; but most persons let their
Bibles lie moulding, like old almanacks, whilst play-books and romances
are worn out with their diligent perusal.
5 Making ready writings, &c. for the North ; after dinner set forth
with uncle Michael Idle, and got well to Boroughbridge.
6. Thence to Northallerton, and so to Darlington, expecting there to
have met with Captain Widdrington.
7. Up early in the morning to Durham, and so having dispatched that
business with him, and visited relations, got well to Newcastle. Newcastle
was the place formerly much delighted in, and earnestly desired, for
my dear relations there; but now, it is an aggravation to my sorrow,
to remember past comforts and present slights.
8. Returned from Newcastle to Darlington, and thence to Topcliffe ;
and next day,
9. Home. I found my poor desolate family all well; but, alas! the fresh
remembrance of our unutterable loss is most bitter, and almost insupportable.
13. At the stationer's, &c.; afterwards with Mr. B. D. collecting
for worthy Mr. Sharp; ditto at Holbeck, &c.
20. Most of the day with some York friends at Lawyer Bathurst's, &c.
; spent too much time idly, neither reading nor writing,
25. Die Dom. Mr. Kay, Colos. iii. 16, 17, showed the necessity of singing
psalms; but though it has formerly been the constant practice of this
family, and I hope in time will be again, yet, I must confess the neglect
of it now, it being an aggravation of sorrow, and bringing my inexpressible
loss more freshly to remembrance. Methinks, I hear his very voice, that
with renewed pangs I am constrained to crouch to the bottom of the pew,
and there vent my sorrow in plenty of tears; so that, never yet, to
my shame do I record it, was I able to sing one line in public or private.
28. From morning to evening with Bulmer friends at Holbeck, writing
about the appraisement, &c., thereby missing a good lecture sermon,
though sore against my mind.
30. Some miles out of town at noon ; spent rest of the day with uncles
at Alderman Hicks', but the conclusion of the day was very bad, with
hasty words, and falling out betwixt relations, and though not much
concerned myself, yet was much troubled for others ; and now the loss
of that blessed peacemaker is sadly evident, who, with admirable prudence,
prevented such clashings.
May 1. I rid to York with uncle Jeremiah and cousin
Susan of Holbeck, and from thence to Bulmer, and though late, got well
thither.
2. Die Dom. Mr. Hasle preached honestly, but, in my slender judgment,
far off so well and learnedly as he, whose worthy labours we usually
enjoy : spent too much of the day in frivolous visits and discourse,
more fit for any other than the Sabbath-day. Evening, very happily lighted
upon a sermon of worthy Mr. Sharp's, that I had writ for cousin Eliz.
Idle, repeated it with joy, and retired into the garden, where 1 had
more satisfaction in half an hour's meditation, &c. than in all
the day besides.
3. At Stittenham, the ancient seat of the Gowers, a knightly family.
4. Rid with uncle Idle and cousin Myers (the lord of that manor,) to
Allerthorp : learnt a piece of law from a learned charge given the jury
by Mr. Langley; was nobly entertained, and had pleasure enough, but
none so great or refreshing as the happy discourse in our return with
good cousin Myers, who declared his very heart to me, and was very importunate
for direction about the main business. I was extremely glad to hear
such discourse, and as my love to him is infinitely increased upon this
account, the Lord grant that both our affections may be increased heaven-wards.
5. I returned to York, consulted Lawyer Rook-by* about the northern
business, dined at cousin Thoresby's, got well home, and in good time.
6. Went to Wakefield; had nothing of business ; under some discouragements
from want of trade.
17. Began our northern journey, had uncle Michael Idle's company, and
carried pretty sister Abigail (her dear father's picture) along with
me, and got safe to Darlington, forty long miles, and yet she not at
all weary.
19. From Newcastle we rid to Morpeth, and thence to Alnwick, where we
lodged.
20. Rid to my estate at Rock, dispatched our business, though in haste,
and returned to Alnwick again that day.
21. From thence to Newcastle, where, having stayed three or four hours,
we rid to Durham ; there I got a sight again of my poor sister. Natural
affections wrought sore, and she could not forbear weeping at our parting,
which made my very heart bleed within me, and my too violent affections
were so strong, that I think I slept not an hour all night, the inconveniences
whereof I found the next day.
22. From thence to Northallerton, and having dried us there (it being
a most stormy rainy day,) to Boroughbridge, where lodged all night.
23. Die Dom. Rid to Aldborough to church, where a young man treated
of the Sacrament, alas ! very obscurely, full of high words, to a poor
unlearned congregation; but this was the best we could have in these
parts. It was my great trouble that, because of the bad weather, and
worse way, we could not reach home yesterday; but imagining I might
spend the evening in some good manner there with my desolate family,
and being sensible of the many inconveniences that would certainly attend
us at the inn, in profane company, was willing to ride home after sermon,
but was troubled to find my expectations in some measure frustrated,
by the unseasonable visit of some, neither relations, nor very great
friends.
24. Spent most of this day in advising about affairs, visiting some
friends, having others to dine with me; so that too much of the time
was spent in idle, unprofitable talk.
25. About some necessary, though small occasions, in the forenoon; but
too much precious time spent afterwards in visits, and converse with
friends, though, blessed be God ! not in bad company.
27. Rid to Wakefield, had some little business, but was rather too compliant
in the company.
29. Very busy in the forenoon, writing to London and to the North, and
sending away some cloth, per carrier; but the latter part of the day
not so well employed; for, coming home from a visit, unhappily found
some company, (by the means of my housekeeper, cousin S. I.) to my great
dissatisfaction, too merry for our circumstances, too many profane words,
and much precious time spent idly if not sinfully.
30. Die Dom. In the morning under much trouble and dissatisfaction for
the aforementioned business, the remembrance whereof was very bitter
and accompanied with great plenty of tears.
31. Most of the day within, imitating the picture of the virtuous Lady
Mary, Countess Dowager of Warwick.
June 1. At home till five, writing and abbreviating
the life of that incomparable lady ; and here I cannot but record my
hopes are that I have found considerable advantage by reading and epitomising
the lives of pious and religious persons.
2. Mr. Sharp dined with me, for whose pious advice I hope I shall have
cause to bless God to all eternity.
3. Within till five, epitomizing Bishop Cousins's life and drawing his
picture ; he was a noble benefactor, and I hope a more sincere Protestant
than some would insinuate.
4. At Mr. Milner's at a conference in order to the sacrament.
12. Morning we set forwards, viz. uncle M. Idle, cousin S. Idle and
maid, with myself; got well to Bawtree, where lodged.
13. Die Dom. Rid thence to Tuxford (though I thought it had not been
so far) and there heard Mr. Charlesworth, who made a very honest though
not very elegant discourse; and thence rid to Newark : the maid unfortunately
got a grievous fall perhaps we may read the crime, traveling upon the
Lord's-day, in the punishment, but was not much worse.
14 Thence to Wansford, near which town a cart driving furiously down
the hill, hit the maid's horse and caught hold of her clothes, but got
her not under the wheel, though at the very door of death : thence to
Stamford, and so to Stilton, where we lodged.
15. Thence to Royston, and thence to Ware, where stayed all night.
16. To London by noon. Afternoon at Captain Widdrington's about the
business which chiefly occasioned this journey.
17. Heard the famous Mr. Baxter preach, was pleased with the very sight
of that worthy good man, but lost the advantage of his sermon by business
and diversions; was at Captain W.'s and then at Westminster.
20. Die Dom. Heard Mr. Slater in the forenoon, and Mr. Stretton in the
evening; but, alas, being involved in so much business and company,
had not the time, or rather improved it not so well as to write the
heads, whereby lost most of the advantage.
21 to 26. Every day employed either about my concerns at Rock with Captain
Widdrington, or visits at Mr. Stretton's and good cousin Dickenson's,
or buying books and pictures of good or great persons, and can better
acquit myself for going with good company to see Paradise, where multitudes
of beasts and birds are lively represented both in shapes and notes,
than in going to see a play, whither curiosity carried me, but fear
brought me back. It was the first, and I hope, will be the last time
I was found upon that ground.
27. Die Dom. Heard the famous Dr. Stilling-fleet in the forenoon; Mr.
Pemberton in the afternoon, and Mr. Stretton in the evening ; but, as
last Lord's-day, lost most of the advantage for want of writing the
heads.
Most of this week spent in business with Captain Widdrington, Sir Richard
Stott, &c. the rest in visits, buying things, transcribing monuments
in Westminster Abbey, in which I can better excuse myself than in staying
so late on Saturday night at Captain Widdrington's, where was too great
plenty of the strongest liquors, which afflicted me by their conquest
of my friend, which being partly on my account, I desire may be for
my humiliation.
July 4. Die Dom. Went to Newington-green to hear Mr.
Joseph Boyse preach, which I rejoiced in as the first-fruits of our
generation ; he showed very accurately our happiness under the Gospel
in comparison of those under the law. I came back with ditto, good friend,
to hear Mr. Charnock and Mr. Stretton in the evening, from whom and
family, especially my dearest cousin, I parted with a sad heart.
5. Came from London to Cambridge, where observed some stately buildings
and curious libraries.
6. From Cambridge to Bridge Casterton.
7. Thence to Barnby-moor, and,
8. Thence home.
9. At Mr. Boyse's, and about some necessary affairs ; but in the evening
much disturbed by the ingratitude of some persons, that I expected better
things from.
10. Writing letters about some urgent business; at Holbeck with Aunt;
and other visits took up the rest of the day.
17. Writing, and taken up with stating Rock accounts. Lord, help me
to be the better for the greater plenty and prosperity that I enjoy;
and not like the worldling, either to set my heart thereon, or be more
negligent in spiritual things.
18. Die Dom. Mr. Sharp, Psalm cxxii. 6. Shake off your security; never
since the establishment of Protestancy amongst us, was there such grounds
of fear. Be of public spirits ; look up to the gasping estate of the
Protestant religion with an affected eye. 1. Consider the example of
God's children in all ages. David, in his greatest agonies for those
two great sins, Psalm li, cries out " Lord, build up the walls
of Jerusalem. 2. Consider your near relation to Jerusalem : all our
private cases, like as the several cabins in a ship, are interested
in the Church's prosperity. Jerusalem's cause is the cause of God, and
therefore it shall certainly prevail at last. Who so hard-hearted as
not to throw in some prayers to the churches; who cannot bestow a benevolence
of tears, or levy a subsidy of sighs for Jerusalem's sake ?
19. Forenoon, with J. Robinson, about Northern tenants, and writing
to Captain Widdrington, Cousin Dickenson, &c. After dinner, at Mr.
Murfield's with young Mr. W.; and evening with other company about some
business, which, notwithstanding, was put off till
20. At Widow D.'s, lent out some money ; afterward, with the said Londoner,
and at Alderman Sykes'; but alas! spent the whole day in visits, &c.
21. Afternoon, at Mr. Morris's banquet, had some learned company, the
Vicar and two antiquaries, that made the entertainment abundantly more
acceptable.
24. Writing ut prius, and with my kind friend, Mr. Henry Fairfax, having
the honour to be sent for by my Lord Fairfax and Squire Palmes, who
expressed great kindness to rne for my dear father's sake :—the
Lord give me wisdom in all things.
27. About some business all day till four, and then took horse with
Uncle T. to York, and so to Stitnam that night. Blessed be God for his
preservation! the waters being very great and dangerous.
28. Forenoon, looking over Sir Thomas Gore's library, the best furnished
with ancient fathers and commentators, both Popish and Protestant, upon
the Scriptures, of any that I have seen; the rest were mostly on Medicine,
for which Sir Thomas was justly famous. Then at Bulmer, to visit relations
there; designed home, but was beat back by a violent shower, which wetted
me through all in a small time.
29. Came from Bulmer to York ; after business dispatched, went to the
Hall, where one Twing, a Popish priest, was upon his trial, found guilty
and condemned accordingly, but not upon the account of religion, but
treason,—saying at a consult at Sir Tho. Gascoyne's, at Barnbow,
that if they lost this opportunity of killing the King they could never
expect such another. After at the Minster, transcribing the monuments
of Archbishops Hutton, Matthews, and Frewin. Evening, to see the Manor.
30. Dispatched my business; went to the hall where Lawyer Ingleby was
tried, but before concluded,! took horse and got very well home.
Aug. 1. Die Dom. Mr. ——— from a good
text, " Cease to do evil, learn to do well :" made no extraordinary
matter ; declaring positively, in many per-sons' sentiments, for downright
Arminianism. Mr. Kay, jun. in the afternoon, made a better discourse
from Prov. xxviii. 14, showing, that though nothing can be hid from
the all-seeing eye of God, yet poor sinful creatures are too apt to
endeavour it the best they can. Mr. Sharp, Hos. xiv. 4, made an excellent
discourse, showing that sin is the soul's sickness, and Christ alone
can be the soul's physician :—for use; no wonder then, that God
is angry with these nations so full of backsliders. It was the observation
of a famous Scotchman, which though at first it look like a scandal,
will upon a serious consideration be too evident a truth; that there
can be no doctrine so monstrous, but it will find its followers in England;
the newer the doctrine, the nearer they think themselves to Heaven;
and, indeed, most are too like sheep in this respect, that are observed
to eat most greedily of the grass that rots them.
11. Writing to London ; sent for out; (as part of yesterday forenoon;)
endeavouring to make peace betwixt Cousin Ibbetson, of London, and Cousin
Cloudsley, of Leeds, which I hope was effected, so that we all dined
together at Cousin C's.
12. Almost all the day transcribing my dear Uncle Thomas Idle's Will,
especially what relates to his benefaction to Holbeck Chapel.
15. Die Dom. Mr. Milner, vicar, preached extraordinary well from Jonah
ii. 2, showing that our prayer must be fervent, if we would prevail
for mercy. If all Conformists preached thus, excellent, sound divinity,
and practical, as this good man, who could be against hearing them?
But, alas ! in the afternoon, Mr. Medcalf made sad dull, nay, I doubt,
profane matter of it; using malicious expressions to render the poor
Nonconformists ridiculous, &c. " Do but hire a stage,"
saith he, " and I will find the actors ; the precise fellow, that
like the Pharisees, delight in long prayers, &c. and felt the pulse
of a holy sister." Mr. Sharp did excellently improve his former
doctrine, that those that seek the Lord shall find; by way of reproof:
1. to those that cannot seek God, they arc so ignorant: 2. those that
will not, serve God, let things go which way they will: 3. those that
spend their time in seeking other things, and so continue till the cold
grave devour their body, and hot Tophet burn their soul: 4. seekers
of pleasure : 5. those that desire the name, rather than the thing;
religion being now-a-days too like a dial; when the sun shines, all
will look upon it, but when that is down, all is done: those hypocrites
are (as one glosses upon it) the freeholders of hell.
16. Morning, writing the heads of yesterday's excellent sermons, and
reading the admirable letter of the pious Countess of Warwick to the
Lord Berkeley Lord, help me to follow such excellent directions ! was
in a contemplative humour; much affected that tins very day completes
twenty-two years since I came into this sinful world; was afterwards
about some business, and was much troubled at the anger I oppressed
with, by the uncivil and unjust carri-age of one I expected his principles
should have taught better. Oh, the various crosses that attend us in
this world! I have lost this friend by too great kindness : I had both
money and a friend, but now can procure neither in that place.
20. Writing to the North, and to Cousin Dicken-son of London. Evening
took horse, and rid with Cousin Ruth to Pannel, whither, though late
enough, and in the dark, we got very well.
21. Went early to the Spaws ; drank of both waters freely, and hope
for benefit by them.
22. DieDom. Designed for Knaresborough Church, but prevented by the
effect of the waters.
23. Drunk the waters before noon; after rid to ditto Church, and took
the inscriptions of the monuments of the Slyngsbys; much pleased with
the serious humour of one, where, above all, stood an angel, with a
trumpet, calling Venite ad judicium. Under the name and titles of the
Knight in his winding-sheet, Omnia Vanitas!
24. Drinking the waters; rest of day in company, mostly with Dr. Hook's
son and daughter, walking, &c.
25. Drinking the waters early, and returned to hear Mr. Sharp's lecture;
afterwards visiting Mr. W.'s, and a-walking with Mr. Wispelaer, and
spent most of the day in that manner, which I hope may be for my health;
but must be cautious, lest I gratify the flesh to the detriment of the
spirit.
26. Rid to Wakefield, and returned well in good time; the greater mercy,
because in the evening was such thunder and lightning as would have
startled the stoutest heart, so extremely violent, and after such a
dreadful manner, as some in a fright were ready to judge the approach
of the day of doom, and accompanied with such a quantity of rain, that,
having my boots on, was forced to wade to the midleg by the houses,
where is no water at other times, in my return from Mr. E. H.'s.
28. Writing to London, and with tenants ; but chiefly epitomizing the
life of that Pillar of Justice, Judge Nichols; but I doubt my affections
are too much bent upon books, which, though not unlawful, yea, in some
respects commendable in themselves, yet I am afraid an immoderate love
to them doth withdraw my affections too much from more practical duties.
31. After dinner had the honour of a visit from Mr. Henry Fairfax and
Mr. Corlas; (the virtuous Lady Barwick's* chaplain ;) was much satisfied
with their excellent company.
September 1. Mr. Sharp's lecture ; showing, that the
time of a people's enjoying the means of grace is their morning, and
fitly compared thereunto, in respect of its imperfection in respect
of heaven, which is the day, and its shortness. Showed farther, that
the more light God doth vouchsafe, the shorter usually the time is:
the old world had 120 years, but those in the wilderness only forty;
and so less and less; and our light appears to be very excellent,—a
clear light, far excelling even that of the Jews, which was clouded
till Christ's coming, with mysterious ceremonies; and much clearer than
most or all the world's,—a great part of which is clouded with
thick mists of antichristian superstition ; but now, if we improve not
this, our sins, of all others, will be most inexcusable, and we shall
be the greatest reproach to the ways and truth of God, and to our own
souls, which was the second doctrine: that if this morning be mispent,
it shall quickly be turned into night, which was evinced from many sad
examples ; even Jerusalem herself, of which God had said that place
should be his rest, yet for her slighting the Gospel, is become desolate.
So all those famous Asian Churches, mentioned in the Revelations, those
of Corinth, Coloss, Ephesus, &c. all which once enjoyed the same
glorious light of the Gospel, and had as sober, serious professors as
Europe can now boast of; and yet, alas ! for this very sin, they are
all desolate, and become the habitation of the destroying Turk. And
what now shall be said to England I know not, only this, Be not high-minded,
but repent; for the Gospel is a mercy too precious to be abused and
trampled under foot by unworthy professors. God will not lend it as
out-ward mercies of health, wealth, &c to the slighters of it, but
will certainly remove it far from us ; for it is nothing but just with
God to turn the light of a people into darkness when they reject it,
winch is the crying sin of this land: to say nothing of any public,
our own defections are very ominous. It has been impartially observed,
that ever since the first Reformation in Edward the Sixth's time, there
has been a decay of love to the truth in sincerity; but farther, though
there has been a decrease for these 130 years, yet it has been much
more evident these last thirty years ; so that, upon a serious consideration,
we have great cause to fear that God will remove the light of his rejected
Gospel from amongst us, the signs whereof are clear, even as the natural
sun.
1. You know it always sends its beams westward, and so this Sun of Righteousness,
it began to show its lustre in Jewry, eastward from us, and so came
westward to the Churches of Asia, where it stayed for a time; thence
to the Grecian Churches farther west, where it shone somewhat longer;
and from thence to Italy and Spain, where it was soon overshadowed with
idolatry and superstition ; then the light broke forth in a happy Reformation
in Germany, still more westward ; and so came at last, in its full lustre,
to these our nations; and now, whether it shall go from us to America
and the West Indies, God himself knows best: however, this is certain,
that the Gospel must be preached even to them, that the light thereof
may shine through the whole world.
2. Shadows grow longer towards night, and is it not thus with us? I
am sure the shadows of religion increase more than the substance, so
that there is little else than the shadow of. it amongst us.
3. Toward night it grows cold ; and so doth the love of many, nay most,
towards the ways of God. Professors of old have even been sick of love
to the Ordinances ; but now, those meetings that used to be spent in
bewailing their wants and directing one another heavenwards, are usually
taken up in scurrilous discourse, drinkings, &c.
4. Towards night men can outstare the sun, the too common practice of
many now-a-days, that practice contrary to what they know to be right
and true.
5. Towards night persons grow more sleepy; and do not most live a sleepy,
secure life, as though they had made a covenant with death, and feared
no danger from God's severe justice? All that is spoken to them is as
stories told to a sleeping man; and should any one be asked when he
goes out here, what he hath heard? perhaps they might say, a good sermon,
holy matter: but alas! how little would be fully remembered, and how
much less practised!
6. Wild beasts (seducers) stir out and devour towards night.
7. Men set up candles, and how many false pretended lights have lately
been set up amongst us; and, lastly, men choose new things with us,
as in the Egyptian darkness men know not which way to go, some to Quakerism,
Anabaptist Antinomianism, and they will not leave their Dalilahs, their
beloved errors. Alas ! how we should lament the loss of the sun in the
firmament, though but for three or four days; but if this glorious Sun
of Righteousness withdraw its light, it will not be for such a short
time, and this will certainly be, if we repent not. Our morning will
be turned into night: whence this third doctrine, that a serious consideration
of the swift motion of our time should be an effectual motive to repentance.
Who is there that seriously thinks upon the shortness of life and length
of eternity, the shortness of the day and length of the night, but would
look about for help in time? Oh ! the madness of those who are notionally
convinced of the truth of all this, yet will not regard,—will
have excuses. Come to a young man:—well, it is too soon for him—he
must now enjoy himself. "Rejoice" saith the wisest man, "in
the day of thy youth, before the evil days come," &c. Well,
after a few years, the young man is grown up to manhood : repentance
then comes to claim its promise. Oh! now ? not now! he was never more
busy in all his life ; he is now entering upon the world, must take
care for an estate—he that provides not for his wife and children
is worse than an infidel; but come in his old age, and then he will
certainly repent and turn. Suppose him well stricken in years;—well,
then it is too troublesome, he hath pangs enough to grapple with; he
hopess God will be merciful, and not damn his own workmanship, and so
alas! is miserably deluded till too late. .... After dinner, rode with
Squire Fairfax, Mr. Corlass, Mr. E. Hickson, and Mr. Wispelaer to Bradford
; was to visit Mr. Waterhouse, &c., and to my exceeding satisfaction,
Mr. Corlass prayed in the family. I have not in my life been so pleased
with a journey ; such duties being too frequently omitted by the best
upon the road.
2. Morning, my dear friend prayed again very fervently ; I was greatly
pleased, that being so many young men on travel, we should so happily
agree in the best things. Rode to Little Horton, and dined with Mr.
Sharp, that holy angelical man ; was much in his library. Evening, returned
home, but was wet to the very skin by a terrible thunder shower, the
most violent, I think, that has often been known.
13. Set forward, though melancholy, and all alone, towards Durham, baited
at Northallerton, and got well to Darlington.
14. Got to Durham pretty early; and found my poor sister, and all relations,
pretty well.
15. Enjoyed the converse of friends; then dined at Cousin Walker's;
went afterwards to see the Abbey ; viewed the exceedingly rich copes
and robes, was troubled to see so much superstition remaining in Protestant
Churches; tapers, basins, and richly embroidered I.H.S. upon the high
altar, with the picture of God the Father, like an old man; the Son,
as a young man, richly embroidered upon their copes. Lord, open their
eyes, that the substance of religion be not at length turned into shadows
and ceremonies!
16. Advising with Aunt, &c.; returned from Durham to Allerton, and
thence to Topcliffe, though late enough.
17. From Topcliffe returned to my desired home.
23. At Wakefield, and thence at the earnest entreaty of Mr. Wispelaer,
(of the same Romish persuasion) rid to Aunt Thoresby's, at Snidall,
but got well home again that night.
25. Set forward very early in the morning with Mr. Robert Hickson; had
a very rainy morning; wet to the skin, before we reached Wentbrig, where
we stayed some while : thence by Doncaster to Bawtry, and so to Gainsborough
at night; but in the way had to ferry over the Trent, and had many rivulets
to ride over within evening, but without any damage.
26. Went early in the morning to the Church; transcribed some epitaphs
; then heard an honest sermon, and then rid three miles to Knaith, to
the Lady Willoughby's of Parham, in expectation of an extraordinary
sermon, and so it proved, indeed; but in the worst sense, full of nothing
in the world but raille-nes against Protestant Dissenters, who, in his
opinion, were far more dangerous enemies than the Papists ; was much
troubled at our disappointment, and to see the house so sadly degenerated
so shortly after the Lord's death, who had the repute of a most honest,
worthy, judicious, and religious Lord ; we rid from thence over the
noted heath to the ancient city of Lincoln, whither we got well, though
late in the evening.
27. Got up early to view the town, and chiefly the Cathedral, an ancient
and stately fabric, where by the assistance of one Clark, a poor but
ingenious man, I transcribed not only the modern, but the names and
some inscriptions of the ancient Bishops' tombs; thence we travelled
to Sleeforth, where we baited, and in the church I found and transcribed
the monuments of the Carrs ; thence to ...
28. From thence to .... but in the church was no monument; but Mr. North,
the minister, had given Mr. Mede's Works, whence I transcribed his Epitaph;
from thence (for we would not venture to ride the washes, which are
dangerous at best) we rid to Wisbeach, an ancient and large market-town,
having in it a bishop's house and a fair church, but no monuments of
antiquity. For Mr. R.'s, &c. vide p. 93, which I transcribed, not
without difficulty, through the ignorance and impudence of the sexton,
who took me for a Papist. But we found much civility from two gentlemen
related to Mr. Hickson, so we stayed all night; in the evening we heard
a good honest sermon from one Mr. Howe, which was some satisfaction
for the smallness of the journey this day.
29 This morning, before we left Wisbeach, I had the sight of an hygre,
or eager, a most terrible flush of water, that came up the river with
such violence that it sunk a coal vessel in the town, and such a terrible
noise that all the dogs in it snarl and bite at the rolling waves, as
though they would swallow up the river; the sight of which (having never
seen the like before) much affected me, each wave surmounting the other
with an extraordinary violence. From Wisbeach we rid to Setcha, a small
country village, but much noted for the beast fair, all the closes round
the town for a considerable distance being spread over with beasts from
Scotland, &c. : and (if not too light an observation in this place)
for the common country proverb, Setcha has but thirteen houses and fourteen
cuckolds ; true enough in the former part, but I charitably hope false
in the latter. From thence we rid to Lynn, three miles off, a stately
great town, with many churches but few monuments; and it being late
I transcribed none, though the chief reason was because I could attain
the knowledge of few or no considerable benefactors, Here I saw the
famous cup which King John gave to the town, which is preserved with
great honour and veneration, and it being the new Mayor's festival,
I had not the sight of it only, but the honour to have it brought me
by the Mayor himself, who (when according to the ancient custom I had
taken off the cover) drunk his Majesty's health in sack, and then turned
one part of the bottom of the cup to himself and the other to me, and
so having received it, drank to another gentleman after the same manner.
30. Before four, in a cold frosty morning, I took horse, and having
raised the people at the city-gate, I went along with my guide, (having
left Mr. Hick-son at Lynn,) to . . . . , fourteen miles off, and thence
alone through many country towns, but none of any note, till I came
at noon to that ancient, famous, and stately city of Norwich, where
the first thing I observed, as I rid along, was the manner of building
not only many houses, but churches, of flint; some flint alone, others
flint and stone, or brick mixed, and the east end of the town-house
is very curiously chequered with squared flints and brick. Christ's
church, or the cathedral, is a stately building, and kept in very good
repair and order, whence I transcribed many curious monuments of ancient
and some modern bishops ; and in a very pretty chapel adjoining, of
that late worthy divine Bishop Reynolds' foundation : and having thus
spent the afternoon abundantly to my satisfaction, I enjoyed in the
evening the company of some acquaintance, &c., and early next morning
took coach for London. The first place we baited at was . . . ., whence,
in the adjoining church, I had the epitaph of Sir Francis Bickley, famous
for his numerous posterity ; and thence to . . . ., where we dined,
but there were no monuments in the church ; thence over a great spacious
heath, many miles long and broad, where we had a fine prospect of Ely
Minster, to . . . .; and thence to Newmarket, where we had the honour
to see his Majesty and the Duke of York ; thence over the spacious heath
to Stour-bridge, where the noted yearly fair is, where we had the prospect
of two churches in one churchyard, built by two sisters; and thence
to Cambridge, where we lodged at night. Early next morning we mounted
Goginagog hills, whence in a very misty unhealthy morning, we came to
. . . ., where we baited ; thence we past by the greatest house in England,
viz. Audley-end, a vast building, or rather town walled in ; it is adorned
with so many cupolas and turrets above, walks and trees below, as render
it a most admirably pleasant seat: thence we came to Saffron Walden,
in Essex, where grows that costly flower, which teaches them to rise
early ; for they must either be up before the sun to take the seeds,
or they lose the prize : from thence to . where we dined, and from thence
to Hogsden, three miles from Ware, and seventeen from London, which
appeared but short, because of the pleasantness of the way, almost like
a continued town or street. I got safe to London that night. . . . This
evenly though very late, I went to Mr. Stretton, from Bishopsgate to
Holborn, and there, alas ! received the sad tidings of my poor cousin,
Bus. Idle's resolution, to bestow herself upon one Stubbs, altogether
unworthy of so virtuous a young woman, whom I cordially love, for her
goodness, much above the common pitch of this age.
Oct. 13. All or most of the day in buying several things,
seeking funeral sermons, lives, and pictures of eminent persons.
15. Morning, inquiring for Mr. Hickson, sen.; then went by water to
Westminster with cousin R. Idle, bought some pictures, and, upon return,
found my fellow-traveller, and stayed with him till late.
16. Die Dom. Mr. H. being gone ere I called, I returned back to the
Dutch church, but understood not so much as I expected, because of the
great echo that church makes. As the custom is, after sermon, sung a
psalm, wherein I joined them with great satisfaction, understanding
then what I read and sung; after dinner, with M. R. H., went up to Mr.
Stretton's, had some discourse with him, and then returned to the Dutch
church.
17. Went to Whitehall with Mr. R. H., and saw the Duke of Monmouth,
who was somewhat indisposed, yet, by means of Mr. Skinner, we were admitted
into the bed-chamber, when he discoursed pretty freely; and, understanding
by Mr. R. H., that we came from Leeds, the great clothing-place, he
answered, with a smile, we were not for popery there,* no more than
they in the West, alluding to his extraordinary kind entertainment there
(as in the public news); then we called at Mr. Fairfaxs, to see my Lord
and him.
18 To take leave of Mr. Stretton . . . .; was at the other end of the
town about a horse, &c. Evening, took leave of my good cousin Dickenson
and family, who has approved himself the most faithful, cordial, true-hearted
friend, I ever met with in London, and indeed equal to the best I have
in the world, which true testimony I purposely mention, as a note of
gratitude.
19. Morning, departed from the metropolis of this island, and one of
the most famous cities in the world, to Tottenham High Cross, where
is an ancient built column, erected in the full road : thence to Waltham,
where is a most curious stately cross, erected by King Edward I. in
memory of his beloved Queen Eleanor ; it is adorned with the well-cut
statues of several saints, kings, queens, &c.: thence to Edmonton,
where, in the midst of the town, is a fair conduit, in the form of a
woman, with a pitcher under her arm, whence continually issueth a stream
of water: thence to Hogsden, where is an ancient house, with stately
turrets, and a curious garden, with the best and largest pine-trees
I have seen : thence to Ware, twenty miles from London, a most pleasant
road in summer, and as bad in winter, because of the depth of the cart-ruts,
though far off as bad as thence to Buntingford and Puckeridge, and part
of the way to Royston, though we got well thither.
20. From thence, early in the morning (long before day) to Godmanchester,
a great town, and almost joined to a greater, Huntingdon, a county town
; but there we stayed not but rid on by two very delicate stately buildings
to Stamford, and thence two miles further to Bridge Casterton, where
we lodged all night.
21. As early up again, and passed safely the great common, where Sir
Ralph Wharton slew the highwayman, and Stonegate Hole, a notorious robbing
place, by Grantham, the church whereof is reported to have the highest
steeple in England ; to Newark, a garrison in the late war for King
Charles I., where, in the ruins of the old castle, I saw the place where
my grandfather was kept prisoner; within two miles of which, through
a too passionate respect to, and fear of, Mr. Hutton (who promised to
meet at night the rest of the company), I left the road and lost the
company, who designed for Barnby-moor; but the way and weather being
very bad, Mr. Hut-ton (for whose sake, lest he should receive any damage,
being too full of drink, I had left the other company) would not stir
a foot farther than Tux-ford, so that I had to ride alone eight tedious
long miles, in a place easy enough to mistake the way in, especially
in a dark evening, over Shirewood Forest; but through the mercy of a
good God, I got safe to my designed stage, and before the rest of the
company.
22. Thence to Bawtry: to my no small joy now got into my native country
again. From that Millstone town to Doncaster, and thence by Ferrybridge
to Brotherton, where I visited old Mrs. Rayner, being my great grandfather's
father's third wife, now a great age, having lived to see many of her
grandchildren's grandchildren. It was somewhat late ere I got home.
23. Die Dom. Mr. Sharp, from Acts xxvi. 8, showed that Jesus Christ,
by the ministry of the word, brings liberty to those that are captives
to the Power of Satan. By nature, we are in the power of Satan, and
how great that is, is clear from Scrip, lure. He is called the God of
this world, and that is the highest power. Consider his natural power
as a fallen angel, and then his regal power as chief of the spirits,
and you will find them great; but sometimes he has a greater power given
him by God: 1. Over the bodies of men, as many examples in history,
and some in our own memories do clearly evince. 2. Sometimes to inflict
distempers upon them, as in Job's case. 3. To torment their bodies,
as in bewitched persons ; and, lastly, sometimes to take away life from
the body, as in witches, that have made a formal contract with the Devil.
But God seldom allows him this immediate power on the bodies of his
children. But though these examples of his power over men's bodies are
very dreadful, even to make our hair stand on end at the reading thereof,
many whereof are contained in a book called the Theatre of God's Justice,
yet this is nothing to the design he hath upon, and power over the souls
of men. 1. By a tempting power to sin ; he being a spirit can approach
nearer the souls of men. 2. By a deluding power. 3. By a tyrannizing
power over all, and even a ruling power over the wicked. ..... Afternoon,
I went to church, but could have wished myself at home, a stranger preaching
very meanly. I was especially vexed at these words, " Precise persons
now-a-days will cry out of innocent plays and honest comedies, &c.,
when in the mean time themselves are the greatest actors in the world."
A speech, in my opinion, very unbecoming a minister of the Gospel at
any time, much more in the pulpit, leading to the encouragement of those
insatiable devourers of precious time.
24. Morning writing to London ; but most of the day abroad visiting
friends, and discoursing Mr. Kay and Mr. B. Dixon (a faithful friend)
concerning the London business.
27. (Our fair-day,) being the last day (last year) that I enjoyed the
invaluable happiness of my dear father's prayers, directions, society,
&c. ; the reflections upon the severe Providence of God in depriving
us of so every way useful a person to Church and State, and the unspeakable
loss to this poor desolate family almost overwhelmed me; the violence
of natural affections, augmented with the sense of the displeasure of
God for my sins, the occasion of so severe a dispensation, was so extreme,
that such rivers of tears issued from my eyes, as almost deprived me
of the use of them ; the smart and pain scarce suffering me to open
them, accompanied with such an exceeding pain in my head, as made me
doubt what the issue would be ; which sorrow (though the pain abated)
continued the next,
28th, day, so that I refused all consolation ; would not stir into town,
but retired, spending the time in bitterness and lamentation for my
unspeakable loss,— a mercy to his pious soul, yet a judgment upon
me!
Nov. 1. Thinking to have got up by six, was mistaken
; rose so early, that I had read a chapter before it chimed four; spent
most of the time in reading my dear father's diary. I entered into a
resolution, to redeem more time, particularly to retrench my sleeping
time, and getting an alarm put to the clock, and that set at my bed's
head, to arise every morning by five, and first to dedicate the morning
(as in duty obliged) to the service of God, by reading and prayer; to
spend some hours in writing and collecting remarks upon the lives and
deaths of the saints and servants of God in most, or all ages ; and
I have thoughts, and some glimmering hope to bring down a continued
series of all the heroes, both spiritual and temporal, since the very
first planting of Christianity in this our island.
2. This morning again I got up sooner than I designed, having read a
chapter before four; till day, writing into a book the inscriptions
I had taken from some monuments in London.
3. Most of the day transcribing some observations upon the lives and
deaths of some great persons, out of Lloyd's Memoirs.
5. Morning, preparing charcoal and powder for a ship of war ; then heard
Mr. Sharp, who made an excellent discourse, and suitable to the deliverance
vouchsafed our ancestors upon this day ; in the evening, full of company,
to see the ship discharged.
6. Morning, writing to Durham and Newcastle; afternoon, spent rather
too much time abroad, though not in bad company, or I hope bad discourse,
though much in controversy about Con. and Nonconformity.
7 Die Dom. Mr. Naylor made such a discourse as I am apt to believe,
was never preached in the New church since it was built, so full of
rancour against poor Dissenters.
10. Morning, writing; and surprised with the death of honest Mr. Robert
Myrfield, as courteous and well humoured a person, as the town of Leeds
afforded; lamented the loss of him, being also a serious Christian,
and willing to do any kindness that lay in his power.
15. Writing in the morning; but spent most of the day in visits, especially
Mr. Naylor, with design of discourse about his sermon.
22. In the house all day, sorting the effigies of many worthy persons,
to place them according to their several centuries in my collection.
Dec. 2. Afternoon with some company to perform the
usual ceremony of going to drink with cousin Fentons, at Woodhouse Hill,
where stayed late enough though not so late as some, being resolute
against drinking, having observed the bad consequence.
6. Writing some Collections till noon from five in the morning, (having
procured an alarm to the clock.) designing to prosecute my former resolutions
not to sleep away so much of my precious time, but endeavour to improve
it to what advantage I can, which I have the more need to do considering
the frequent summons to many persons-more likely for life than myself,
as J N. at whose funeral I was.
9. Up ut prius, writing till noon, then dined at uncle Idle's; thence
sent for by Mr. B. D.; writing till nine in the evening the public donations,
gifts to the poor, lecturer, free-school, highways, &c. designed
to be engrossed upon a table, and hung up in the church, which good
design my dear father was very earnest in prosecuting many years ago,
but prevented by the iniquity of some great persons, who had of the
poor's money in their hands.
13. Arranging the pictures of many noted persons, in order to fix them
methodically into the book.
16. Lost too much of the morning; most of the day pasting the collection
of pictures, and placing them according to their several generations.
21. Came from Snidall with cousin and Mr. Wispelaer; dined at Dr. Neale's,
and stayed there rather too long at play, to the loss of too much precious
time.
27. Morning set forward with friends for the North; got well to Rippon,
and thence, though some miles in the dark, without harm to Catterick.
28. Thence to Piercebridge and Bishops Aukland; transcribed the epitaph
of Bishop Cousins, interred in a stately chapel of his own foundation;
thence to Durham, without prejudice, though the ways very deep and the
night dark.
29. Dined at cousin Walker's, and stayed most of the day there, with
relations.
31. Rid with cousins to Newcastle.