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Professor W.H. Ellis
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Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2010 with funding from
University of Toronto
http://www.archive.org/details/wholeworksofrevo01heyw
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THE
WHOLE WORKS
OF THE
REV. OLIVER HEYWOOD, RA.
NOW FIRST COLLECTED, REVISED, AND ARRANGED,
Including some Tracts extremely scarce, and others from
impublisked Mamiscripts :
MEMOmS OF HIS LIFE.
IN FIVE VOLUMES.
VOLUME THE FIRST,
CONTAINING
LIFE OF MU. O. HEYWOOD.
EXTRACTS FROM HIS DIA*IIY.
SOLILOQUIES, LETTERS, ETC.
LIFE OF MB. N. HEYWOOD.
LIFE OF MR. ANGIER.
LIVES OF MR. O. H.''s REL ATIVES
__J__LS£iiS.VATiON
r » %s.
IDLE :
PRINTED BY JOHN^TTI^
,.., JUN3O 1989
/As t,
FOR THE EDITOU; FREDERICK WESTLEY AND A. II. DAVIS, STATIOXER|/^
court; B. J. HOLDSWORTH, ST. PAUL's CHURCH-YARD; » I
R. BAYNES, PATERNOSTER-ROW, LONDON ; AND , . V *>
D. BROWN, ST. Andrew's street,
EDINBURGH.
il82;L.,
* ...
t//
CONTENTS
THE FIRST VOLUME
LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
Page.
Preface to the Life of Mr. Hey wood - - - - - 1
PART I. Heywood Family— Birth of O. Heywood— His
religious Convictions — Pious Education — Early
Attachment to the Ministry — Entrance at the Uni-
versity — Spiritual Privileges there — Religious So-
ciety at Cambridge — Return Home — Settlement at
Coley 5
PART II. History of Coley— Ministers at Coley— Com-
mencement of Mr. Haywood's Ministry there —
His Ordination — Reflections on his Settlement at
Coley — His Lodgings — Sickness — Disappoint-
ments — Marriage — Birth of his Son John — Pa-
rental Affection — Birth of his Son Eliezer — Death
of Mr. Hey wood's IVIother — Preparation for Trou-
bles — Neglect of the Lord's Supper and Discipline
at Coley — Ordinances restored — His Joy on the Oc-
casion — Opposition — Public Calamities — Cheshire
Rising — Birth and Death of Mr. Hey wood's Son
Nathaniel — Conduct of Mr. Hey wood's Opponents
— His Invitation to Preston — The Restoration of
Charles II— Death of Mrs. Heywood— A faithful
Servant - - - - - - - -17
PART III. Ingratitude of Charles II. to the Nonconformists
— Declaration against private Bleetings — Mr. Hey-
wood's Citation to York, and Reflections — His Sus-
pension — The Act of Uniformity — Nonconformists
not guilty of Schism — Excommunication of Mr.
VIU CONTENTS.
I'aye.
Heywood — Preaching at Coley Chapel prevented
— Another Excommunication — Private Services —
Frequent Alarms — Third Excommunication — Ex-
clusion from public Ordinances — Wari'ants is-
sued — Occasional Labours — Violent Opposition —
The Conventicle Act — Frequent Opportunities of
Preaching — Activity of Mr. Heyw^ood's Enemies —
A Gospel ]\Iinister at Coley Chapel — Mr. Hey wood's
Endeavours to obtain Absolution — His Visit to
Lancashire — Journey into the South — Preservation
from Dangers — Providential Supply — The Plague
of London - - - - - - -HI
PART IV. The Five-mile Act— Soliloquy— Mr. Hey wood's
Banishment from Home — His frequent Journeys,
Labours, and Dangers — The Fire of London — IMr.
Heywood's second IMarriage — Various Journeys —
Occasional Preaching at Coley Chapel — Preserva-
tion and Labours continued — Sickness — Recovery,
and renewed Labours — Severities increased — Rea-
sons for preaching at his own House — Imprison-
ment at Leeds — The Conventicle Act revised and
enlarged — IMr. Heywood fined for preaching at
Coley Chapel — The spoiling of his Goods — Re-
proach for the Truth — Hazardous Labours — Divine
Enjoyments in Private — Observance of Bartholo-
mew's Day — Self-examination and Covenant — Re-
markable Pi'ovidence ------ II7
PART V. Blr. Heywood's Thankfulness for private Liberty
— Declaration of public Liberty to the Nonconfor-
mists — Mr. Heywood's Removal to Northowram —
Receipt of License — Reflections — Formation of a
christian Society at Northowram — Church Cove-
nant — Union of Presbyterians and Independents —
Mr. Heywood's Labours and Success — Ordination
at Manchester — Dr. Hook's Opposition — Dedica-
tion of his Sons to the Ministry — Personal Cove-
nants >_-__--- 166
PART VI. Licenses threatened to be taken away — Par-
liament prorogued — Licenses revoked — IMr. Hey-
wood's conduct on the occasion — His Perseverance
in Labours — Grateful Recollections — Parental An-
xiety — Death of Relatives^ Mr. Rich. Heywood,
CONTENTS. IX
Page.
Rev. John Angler, Rev. Nath. Heywood — Self-
examination — Ml*. Heywood apprehended at Shaw
Chapel — Thanksgiving Day — Extracts fx-om his
Diary — Sickness of Mrs. and Eliezer Heywood —
Covenant renewed — Another Excommunication —
Ordination of Timothy Jollie — Mr. H.'s successful
Labours — Repeated Illness of Eliezer Heywood —
The Death of an ungodly Preacher — Review of
16'81 — Severities exercised — Spiritual Journeys —
Visit to London — Deliverances from Dangers —
Disinterested Labours — Mr. Heywood's Apprehen-
sion and Trial — His Perplexity — Imprisonment in
York Castle — Prison Employment — His Liberation
— Renewal of his Labours - - - - - 1 97
PART VII. Death of Charles II. and Accession of James
II. — Declaration for Liberty of Worship — Com-
mencement of the Dissenting Interest at Halifax —
Erection of the Chapel at Northowram — The Re-
volution — Mr. Heywood's Annual Covenant — His
Sickness — The Congregations at Alverthorp and
Pontefract — Instances of Mr. Heywood's Useful-
ness — His Journey to York — Renewed Covenants
— Last Visits to Lancashire and York — Invitations
to London and Blanchester — Reflections on the
Year 1698— Visit of Mr. Timothy Jollie— Sickness
of his Wife and Son John — Return of his Baptis-
mal Day — Last Year of IMr. Heywood's Life - 279
PART VIII. Mr. Heywood's last Sickness and Death— His
Character as a Son — Husband — Father — INIaster of
a Family — Relative — Friend — Subject — His Reli-
gion — Spirituality of Mind — Spirit of Prayer —
Gratitude to God — Self-Examination — Watchful-
ness — Humility — Faith — Liberality — Talents —
Simplicity of Manner — Fervour of Spirit — Consci-
entiousness — Disinterestedness — Doctrinal Senti-
ments — His Views of Church Government — -His
Diligence in his Work — The Success of his Ministry 321
APPENDIX. Extracts from Mr. Heywood's Diary - - 372
Soliloquies ,___-_- 385
Epistle to the Reader of " Advice to an only Child " 420
Original Letters »-_-_- 426
X CONTENTS.
LIFE OF THE REV. NATH. HEYWOOD.
Page.
Dedication 447
The Preface 448
A Short Historical Account of the Life and Death of the
Rev. Nathaniel Heywood ----- 453
Pedigree of the Heywood Family, from the Time of Edward
VI. to the Year 1826 506
ADDENDA.
Preface to the Life of Mr. Angier _ - . - - 517
A Narrative of the Life and Death of the Rev. John Angier,
Minister of the Gospel at Denton - _ - 519
Close of ]Mrs. Ellen Angier's Life 573
A Biographical Account of Mrs. Elizabeth Heywood, the
first Wife of the Rev. O. Heywood, extracted from
his Manuscripts ------- 574
A brief jMemoir of Mr. Richard Heywood, the Father of the
Rev. Oliver and Nathaniel Heywood - - - 579
Particulars of the Life of Mrs. Alice Heywood, observed and
collected by her Son O. Heywood - - - 586
Memoir of Mr. John Heywood, eldest Son of the Rev. O.
Heywood 594
Memoir of ]\Ir. Eliezer Heywood, second Son of the Rev. O.
Heywood 602
Conclusion --.-_..-- 606
Erratum — Page fi05, the reference at the bottom should be to Letters
III. and IV. Pages 420 and 430.
MEMOIRS
OF THE
REV. OLIVER HEYWOOD, B.A,
CHIEFLY EXTRACTED FROM HIS
Hiarg ant> otter u«piiljU0f)et> J^anujscviptjsf,
BY THE
REV. RICHARD SLATE,
AND REVISED BY THE
EDITOR OF MR. O. HEYWOOD'S WORKS.
PREFACE.
The name of Oliver Heywood has been long and
deservedly held in high esteem, especially in the county
of Lancashire, in which he was born, and in the
West Riding of Yorkshire, in which he chiefly labour-
ed. He was when living a man eminently honoured by
God as the instrument of " turning many to righte-
ousness" by his evangelical discourses, and apostolical
labours in the cause of true godliness. Since his transla-
tion to the firmament of celestial glory, in which he
shines as a star of the first magnitude, many sojourners
in this vale of tears have been instructed and cheered in
their passage towards the heavenly kingdom by the per-
usal of the works he left behind. He was called to bear
his part in the common sufferings of those devoted mini-
sters of Christ in England, who in the year 16'62 relin-
quished their ecclesiastical benefices, and were prepared
to lose all and suffer martyrdom itself, "rather than act
contrary to conscience, or desert the cause of civil and
religious liberty." The traditional accounts of some of
those privations, and of the remarkable interpositions
of Divine Providence on his behalf, have greatly contri-
buted to the celebrity of his character. But his genuine
piety, as well as his labours and sufferings, made him
highly beloved by good men with whom he was per-
VOL. I. U
2 PREFACE.
sonally acquainted, and has caused his memory to be
venerated in succeeding periods of the church of Christ,
by those to whom he has been known only by report,
or by his edifying publications.
A "Life of O. Heywood" was published many
years since by the late, revered Dr. Fawcett, who when
he wrote that account, possessed only two volumes of
Mr. Heywood's private papers. Afterwards he some-
times entertained the idea of composing a new and an
enlarged edition, having obtained much fuller informa-
tion, but at last declined it on account of his other
engagements and the increased infirmities of old age.
A short time before his death, the venerable Doctor
encouraged the writer of this Life to follow up the
design, he having been favoured by Mr. Heyavood's
descendants and others, with upwards of twenty vo-
lumes of his private manuscripts .*
In compiling this Memoir, the writer has endeavour-
ed to present to the world a faithful narrative of the
Life of O. Heywood ; an unexaggerated record of his
labours and sufferings in the cause of Christ; and a plain
exhibition of the religious truths he received as " the
glorious gospel of the blessed God," together with the
influence of those truths on his public and private cha-
racter. To render the narrative as interesting as possi-
* The Writer cheerfully embraces this opportunity of publicly
acknowledging his special obligations to the late Rev. Dr. Fawcett,
to Dr. Raffles, Liverpool, the Rev. Rich. Astley, Halifax, and IMiss
Heywood, Mansfield, for the loan of valuable MSS; to the late Rev.
Dr. Ryland, Bristol, for extracts from the Northowram Register;
and to the Rev. IMr. Hunter, Bath, for his useful aid in composing
the Genealogical Table of the Heywood Family.
PllEFACE. 3
ble, it consists chiefly of extracts from Mr. Heywood's
private papers, so that the work may be considered as
a specimen of auto-biography. The manuscripts from
which the selections have been made are the following:
" A Relation" of the most considerable passages of his Life
from infancy till nearly the fortieth year of his age.
" Soliloquies" on various occurrences of his life and the state
of his mind, from May 1653 to June 1682, a period comprising
nearly the first thirty years of his ministry.
"Covenants" occasional and annual, from Feb. 1673 to 1680.
from June 1685 to February 1702.
" Returns of Prayer," from January 1672 to 1677.
from 1682 to 1702.
" Self-Reflections," from November 1677 to 1700.
" Experiences with Reflections," from February 1680 to 1702.
" Diary," from its commencement in 1666 to 1673.
from July 1677 to May 1680.
from May 1682 to July 1686.
from March 1695 to June 1699.
from October 1699 to within five days of his
decease.
"Particulars respecting Coley, collected by O. Heywood."
A private Record of the members of the church at Northowram,
containing also the church covenant, &c.
" The Heywood Family." Containing the Lives of Mr.
Heywood's ancestors and pious relatives, written by himself.
In this interesting volume, the history of the Family is con-
tinued to the present day by surviving relations.
The memoir, it is hoped, will be acceptable to the
general Reader, particularly as it relates to one of the
most eventful periods of English history. The Pro-
testant Dissenter will be pleased to meet with some
particulars concerning Mr. Heywood's companions
b2
4 rilEFACE.
ill tribulation and the general history of Nonconformity;
he will be reminded what were the principles by which
his forefathers and predecessors were influenced in
separating from the Church of England, as by law
established, and that English Dissent has not depended
on the lives of the ejected ministers, but is founded on
just and christian principles, and upheld by the mighty
power of God ; and he will learn to cherish and pro-
pagate those sentiments which animated those Con-
fessors, and to which he is so much indebted for that
measure of civil and religious liberty he now enjoys.
Pious Christians of various denominations will be
gratified with the simple relation of religious experi-
ence, given by one of the most eminent servants of
God. They will probably admire his diligence, zeal,
devotedness, and success as a minister ; but when they
follow him into the domestic scenes of his life, or the
retirements of the closet, they will be able to converse
with him as a fellow-believer, and more fully to sym-
pathize with him in his anxieties and hopes, and sor-
rows, and joys as a Christian.
Had Mr. Heywood's manuscripts fallen into other
hands, doubtless a memorial might have been raised to
his memory more worthy of the distinguished subject
whose life is recorded, and more deserving the attention
of the public. Such, however, as it is, the Author
commends it to the blessing of " the God of all grace,"
who sometimes accomplishes his purposes of mercy by
the meanest instruments, the more effectually to pro-
mote his glory.
RICHARD SLATE.
MEMOIRS
OF THE
REVEREND OLIVER HEYWOOD, B.A.
PART THE FIRST.
Heywood Family^Birth of 0. Hepvood-His religious Convictions
-.Pious Education— Early Attachment to the Ministry— Entrance
at the University—Spiritval Privileges there— Religious Society at
Cambridge— Return Home— Settlement at Coley.
The pre-eminent usefulness, which in almost every
age distinguishes a few highly honoured individuals,
furnishes ample scope for the pen of the biographer; for
however closely they may imitate Him, who did not
cause "his voice to be heard in the street;" then-
agency employed in producing the moral changes of a
widely extended sphere cannot escape observation.
When men have possessed a diversity of talents, which
has occasioned a general interest in their favour, or
when in the course of their lives, remarkable incidents
have occurred, or when amidst dangers they have been
peculiarly guarded, and wonderfully rescued by gra-
cious and signal interpositions of Providence; biography
in giving a portrait of them becomes interesting. The
Rev. O. Heywood comes before the public, with no
ordinary advantages. The eventful period in which
he lived, and the singular piety with which report has
6 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEY WOOD.
adorned his character, as well as the unwearied efforts
which, it is known, he made to do good, and the exten-
sive usefulness which attended his exertions through
the whole of his course, have created a predilection for
him, and make it a gratifying task to trace his origin,
and sketch the circumstances of his life.
" It is possible," says the pious subject of this me-
moir, " that we have sprung from some younger
branch of the house of Heywood, of Heywood Hall,
an ancient esquire's seat between Rochdale and Bury;
for Mr. Robert Heywood, whom I knew, a pious,
reverend, old gentleman, and an excellent poet, was
wont to call my father cousin : but kinship grew
out in process of time ; and it is not very material of
what family we are, so that we be of the household
of faith, and have God for our father, Christ for our
elder brother, and grace flowing in our sjiiritual veins,
disposing us to act for God." If he could not boast of
descent from the great and noble of the earth, he could
rejoice in the number of his relations distinguished
for their piety. His grandfather, Oliver Heywood,
after whom he was named, " was renowned for his
zeal, meekness, humility, love, and growth in grace;"
though not brought to a saving acquaintance with the
gospel before the sixtieth year of his age. His father
and mother, Richard and Alice Heywood, were both
esteemed truly pious before marriage, and were much
influenced by their attachment to true godliness in
their choice of each other. It was a great privilege to
be the son of such parents, and a great honour to be
the parents of such a son. They had nine children ;
John, who died in infancy, Hannah, Mary, John,
Esther, Oliver, Alice, Nathaniel, and Josiah. Oliver
Heywood was born March, 1629, in Little Lever, in
the parish of Bolton, and was baptized at the parish
HIS BIRTH AND EDUCATION. 7
church, the 29th of the same month. Respecting his
birth-place, he observes : " it hath long been famous
for glorious professors of the gospel, and powerful
preachers ; and I take it as one of the great mercies of
my life, that my nativity was in Goshen, under the
star of Jacob's special influence."*
When a child, though under considerable restraints in
his father's house, he complains of having indulged his
depraved nature in sinful acts when he had oppor-
tunity. " When, says he, one of my sisters found fault
with me for profane swearing, I replied, ' I had not
sworn so much as a neighbour's child with whom I
used to play ;' so foolish was I, and ignorant. How
fond was I of trifles ! how backward to good exercises !
how forward to sinful practices ! how easily led to fol-
low bad examples ! I may say, * childhood and youth
are vanity ;' yea, next akin to brutish stupidity and
atheistical blasjDhemy. * When I was a child, I spake
as a child ;' yea, rather like a devil incarnate. O the
desperate wickedness of my deceitful heart ! " But
God, who had designs of mercy towards him, did not
give him up to follow the corrupt inclinations of his
heart. His pious parents, who kept a watchful and
affectionate eye over him, frequently by love and awe
checked his j^rogress in sin, and these endeavours on
their part were succeeded by powerful convictions of
conscience from the Spirit of God. " Though some,"
he remarks, " can make punctual and particular state-
* The names of George Marsh and John Bradford have long been
distinguished among the first and warmest friends of the Refor-
mation in England, and occupy no mean rank in the noble army of
martyrs. Thomas Lever, an eloquent and popular preacher in the
reign of Edward VI, was the faithful companion of their hves,
though not a fellow-sufferer with them in death. The two former
were born in the adjoining parishes, and the lastmentioned in the
same township as Mr. Heywood.
b LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
ments of the method, time, manner, and means of
their regeneration, yet for my own part, I cannot give
any such account of circumstances ; though I am
fully satisfied the Lord hath been at work with my soul
both in childhood and since. Many a time have I
gone alone and been distressed, then I have fallen off
again to carelessness ; but being awakened after back-
slidings, I have been so perplexed in spirit, that I have
walked in the fields, sought where to weep, being ready
to roar out in the bitterness of my soul, keeping up
usually secret prayer and other duties. How often
have I thought my condition in some respects to be
worse than that of birds and beasts, trees and stones,
because by sin, I am subject to eternal misery, of which
they are not capable ! Sometimes I durst not pray,
lest I should take God's name in vain. Thus I have
had my inward troubles from fears and doubts. That
which hath put me to a sad stand in my self-examin-
ing work hath been, lest all those shakings should be
the fruit of education and the common workings of the
Spirit." These fears are the common experience of
many who have been favoured with early religious
instruction. Mr. Heywood was much encouraged
under them, by hearing persons of whose conversion
he was fully satisfied making the same complaints, by
comparing his present experience and conduct with
the past, and a persuasion that a man's safety does not
depend on his being able to^ ascertain the precise
period of his regeneration, but on his conformity to the
imap-e of Christ.
It was his happiness to have a mother willing and
able to instruct him in the important concerns of his
soul, and he thus affectionately and gratefully records
her spiritual care over him : " I do with thankfulness
to God remember that many a time my dear mother
HIS BIRTH AND EDUCATION. 9
did zealovisly and familiarly press upon me truths of
the greatest concern : as the preciousness of the soul —
the misery of man by nature — the necessity of con-
version — the brevity of life — and the importance of
eternity. She used to take me along with her to hear
Mr. Horrocks of Dean Church, Mr. Harrison of
Walmsley, Mr. Johnson of Ellinborough, and some-
times to Denton, to hear Mr. Angier. I confess I took
much delight in waiting upon her abroad, but what
my ends were I cannot tell, yet this I believe, that God
disposed of it for much good to my poor soul." Being
expected to give an account of the sermons he heard,
he was accustomed to take notes at the time of preach-
ing, and when his notes and memory failed, he looked
to his kind mother for help. Sometimes she would
converse with him when returning home, on the subject
they had been hearing. By these means he was early
habituated to pay attention to God's word, and early
impressions of divine truth were made on his mind.
How much he felt himself indebted to his pious mother
as the instrument of his conversion, may be learned
from what he says in her life, which he afterwards
wrote : " I may say, I owe much to her as the instru-
ment under God, of that saving good I at first received ;
and I hope I shall never forget the instructions of a
mother." When only fourteen years of age, he was
admitted into the company of some religious persons,
among whom were several young people, who met once
a fortnight during the winter evenings for spiritual
conference and prayer, and at those meetings he was
called on in his turn to exercise his gifts. Like Nico-
demus, he evaded publicity as much as possible, lest
he should meet with reproach from some of his former
associates ; but he received great encouragement from
his parents and others. About this time, he first par-
10 LIFE OF THE IlEV. O. HEYWOOD.
took of the ordinance of the Lord's supper at Bolton,
and experienced the comfort of it, in the peaceful and
happy frame of his mind both at the celebration and
afterwards.
His inclination towards the ministry of the gospel,
and his desire to engage in that sacred office were early
discovered. " When a gracious old woman," he says,
" observed that in reading, I had a strong voice, she
asked me, if I would be a preacher ? my answer was,
yes, if I may be a good one. I must confess, that since
I had any understanding, I have held those in singular
love and honour who have been pious ministers, and I
have accounted those, wretched burdens of the earth
and the worst of all men, who have been profane in
that office ; and I am now more confirmed therein, that
a wicked preacher doth most hurt among men, and
will have the greatest torments amongst lost souls."
Perceiving the bent of his mind, his friends gave him
all the advantages of learning, the neighbourhood fur-
nished ; but his progress at first was small. In refer-
ence to this subject, he observes, " I have sometimes
wondered that I was never stopped by my masters,
examiners, or parents, in consequence of my natural
weakness and unfitness for that work, for none was
more unlikely to make any figure in that calling than
I, though my desire was so much carried out towards
the great employment. Whatever my ends were, the
Lord knows, but I have cause to fear they were mostly
selfish. I used my utmost care to have my weakness
covered, that I might not be detected and diverted to
some other calling, which I could never bear to think
of, and for which indeed in many respects I was not
fit. I now see, my God designed me for greater works
and higher ends than worldly and cumbering trade, to
which my mind was always much averse." After he
HIS BIRTH AKD EDUCATION. 11
had been with a variety of teachers, he was at length
put under the care of Mr. Rudal, who excelled in no-
thing but literature, by whose instructions he was en-
abled to make considerable proficiency in human learn-
ing. " I look upon it," he says, " as an observable pas-
sage in my life, that I should in any degree suck the
juice of the authors I read, and hear the instructions
of masters that taught me, without woful contagion
to my soul, from those pestilential vanities discoverable
in both."
Having arrived at the eighteenth year of his age,
and received the benefit of public and private instruc-
tion at home, it was resolved he should enter the
University of Cambridge. Here he was placed under
the care of Mr. Akhurst, who was considered a pious
and exemplary man, though he afterwards embraced
strange and extravagant notions, from which however
he was reclaimed before his death. He was admitted
at Trinity College July 9th, 1647 ; when Dr. Hill was
the master. His excellent father, fully convinced of
the importance of the step now taken, and aware of
the dangers and temptations to which his youthful son
would now be exposed, who had nev'er before been long
absent from a parent's eye, gave him very affectionate
and suitable advice. " When my dear and honoured
father," he says, " left me at Cambridge, he wrote down
some serious and grave instructions, which he left with
me, besides many others which he and my affectionate
mother had frequently inculcated in their several con-
ferences ; they were such as these, ' My son, labour
above all things to make your peace with God, by
humbling your soul evening and morning, and oftener
before him, that you may know that God hath begun
a good work of grace in your heart. Be very frequent
in reading the scriptures, with knowledge and under-
13 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
standing, that you may be a good scribe, armed against
temptation, and able to convince gainsayers. Labour
to get every day some sanctified thoughts, and spiritual
meditations, which will be a heavenly life and walking
with God, and write them in a book entitled, " The
Meditations of my Youth." Take short notes of every
sermon you hear, and write some fairly over for your
loving mother. Often remember how short and pre-
cious your time is, and that upon it depends eternity.
Keep a mean, as to society; neither be too solitary, lest
you become melancholy ; nor too much desire company,
lest you be drawn aside ; and, above all, beware of bad
company, and seek out for good.' These rules I had
often in my eye, and though, I confess I fell short in
obedience, yet the outward part thereof I endeavoured
to practise."
While at Cambridge he had opportunities of attend-
ing the powerful preaching of Mr. afterwards Dr.
Hammond, preacher at St. Giles's church, whose minis-
try was abundantly blessed to the good, not only of
his parishioners, but also of the students in the several
Colleges. " I must confess," Mr. H. says, " my heart
was many a time very much affected under the ordi-
nances at St. Giles's, and I cannot but with thankful-
ness acknowledge him, (Dr. Hammond) as a profitable
instrument of much good to my soul. Though the
work might be wrought before, yet I am sure it was
then much revived and cleared, and many mistakes re-
moved. O with what a frame of spirit have I come
from that place ! I usually met with a suitable search-
ing word, that warmed my heart. I also met with
some ingenuous and gracious scholars, with whom I had
intimate familiarity, and was furthered by them in the
ways of God. I look upon it as an admirable mercy,
that I was preserved from those wicked and idle com-
ins BIRTH AND EDUCATION. 13
panions that might have prevailed for the utter un-
doing of my soul and body, for my nature was too
pliable, and my heart inclinable to sin and vanity.
Though I have cause to lament loss of time there,
which should have been a harvest for laying in trea-
sures of human and divine knowledge, that I might as
a good householder, bring out things new and old for
benefiting the souls of others, had I been as careful as
I might and ought ; yet it is a mercy that I lost not,
but gained something for my soul ; for I have observed
many persons very hopeful at their first arrival there,
that went away empty of goodness, and instructed in
artificial contrivances of wickedness. All the time I
was in the University my heart was much deadened in
philosophical studies, nor could I, as I desired, apply
my mind so closely to human literature, though I prize
learning above all sublunary excellencies ; I might
have been more useful, had I improved my time better
therein. My time and thoughts were most employed
on practical divinity, and experimental truths were
most vivifying to my soul : I preferred Perkins, Bolton,
Preston, and Sibbs, far above Aristotle, Plato, &c."
It was the happiness of Mr. H. to enjoy the frequent
company and conversation of several pious youths then
at College, who often met for mutual edification in
spiritual and experimental religion. Among these was
the Rev. Thos. Jollie,* afterwards ejected from Altham
in Lancashire, with whom he formed an endeared
friendship, which continued without any breach above
fifty years. They were comjDanions through life, in tri-
bulation, and labours, and both died in the seventieth
year of their age, and within twelve months of each
other. Mr. H. refers to the time they spent together at
* See JMemoirs and Sermons of Mr. Thos. JoUie, in " Select
Nonconformists' Remains/' by R. Slate.
14> LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
Cambridge, in a letter written to Mr. Jollie when they
were not far from the end of their christian race, in
which he says, " I do hereby give you my hearty thanks
for your loving letters sent to me, which further en-
dear my heart to you in friendship, which first com-
menced at Cambridge, where you were pleased to take
notice of, and take into your society, such a simple raw
lad as O, H. I oft reflect with comfort and gratitude
on the sweet opportunities we had in your garret-
chamxber, and the heart-meltings under Mr. Hammond's
ministry, with whom I conversed a fortnight before he
died at Hackney, whom we shall never see more in this
world."
With the design of lessening his father's burden of
supporting him at Cambridge, he endeavoured to obtain
a scholarship, and most likely would have succeeded,
but for a fever which attacked him with such violence
that for a time he was not expected to live. Great at-
tention was paid by those about him, and by the bless-
ing of God he was restored. In this sickness he
solemnly vowed, that if it pleased the Lord to spare
his life, he would devote himself entirely to the service
of the sanctuary. God was gracious to him, and, in
dependance on divine grace, he performed his vow with
the earnest desire, as he observes, " of promoting the
glory of God in winning souls to Jesus Christ." Hav-
ing lost this opportunity of obtaining a scholarship, and
his brother Nathaniel by this time being also sent to
the University, he remained only till he had taken his
degree of Bachelor of Arts, and then returned to his
father's house. Here he continued his studies, waiting
an opportunity of residing, for a season, in some pious
minister's family, before he fully entered on the public
work on which his heart was fixed.
He continued at home about half a year, and did not
HIS BIRTH AND EDUCATION. 15
venture to engage in preaching, that passage being
much on his mind: "Who is sufficient for these things?'*
His first attempt to preach was in some obscure place
near Preston, when on a visit to some friends in that
neighbourhood, and, afterwards on a similar occasion
at Carleton, and Skipton in Yorkshire. His uncle
Francis Critchlaw, being on a visit to some friends at
Coley, near Halifax, and finding they were destitute of
a minister at that place, mentioned that he had a nephew,
a young man just returned from Cambridge, who had
lately commenced occasional preaching. Receiving a
favourable account of him, the Chapelry deputed two
persons to wait on him, and bring him over with them.
Upon Mr. Heywood's return home from Skipton, he
found them waiting for him at Bolton. He consented
to go and supply for them one Lord's day,* and the
people were so much pleased with his services, that be-
fore he came away, they began to express a desire for
his settlement among them. Such a proposition being
quite unexpected at that time, and a way being opened
for his admission into Mr. Angler's family at Denton,
to receive instructions in religious knowledge from that
holy man, he was unable to give them an answer, but
promised to supply them another day. Having a previ-
ous engagement to go into Wales, on a visit to his uncle
Ralph Critchlaw, who resided at Wrexham, and was
at that time a justice of the peace, several Lord's days
intervened before he could perform his engagement at
Coley. During this period another person had been
engaged as a supply, with whom the people had nearly
agreed for his continuance, only some refused their con-
sent, expecting Mr. H. would fulfil his promise of a
second visit. Accordingly he went, and they renewed
their solicitations. Several days were set apart for
* This was about Micliaeljnas, in 1650.
16 I.IFK OF THE llEV. (). HEVWOOI).
seeking God by prayer, and for consulting friends on
this important subject ; and, on Nov. 26th, 1650, in
the 22nd year of his age, he agreed to supply the place
for six months.
At the close of this period, he was earnestly pressed
to accept an invitation to Houghton Chapel, in Lan-
cashire, to succeed good Mr. Horrocks, who was lately
deceased. This situation had many attractions : it
was not far from his native place and pious kindred ;
it was a place where his income would be greater than
at Coley, and his esteemed and reverend friend, Mr.
Tilsley, of Dean Church, was veiy urgent in persuad-
ing him to comply. But he had now been a sufficient
length of time at Coley, to gain the affections of the
people, and to entertain pleasing hopes of usefulness ;
and therefore concluded it was the will of God he
should remain there. His decision was honourable to
his character, a presage of his future conduct, and a
happy earnest that as he sought the glory of God, and
not his own ease and comfort in his settlement, so God
would not refuse him the blessed reward he desired —
the conversion of many souls to Christ. Had his peo-
ple rightly estimated his conduct in his determination
to abide with them, when so powerful a temptation
was laid in his way, at a time too, when he could have
complied without violating the principles of justice or
honour, (his engagement with, them being fulfilled,) it
would have disarmed them of that opposition he after-
wards met with, from some of their number. If a
minister cheerfully makes sacrifices for the good of his
people, they ought in return to make his comfort and
welfare objects of their peculiar attention.
PART II.
History of Coley — Ministers at Coley — Commeticement of Mr. Hey-
wood's Ministry there — His Ordination — liejlections on^ his Set-
tlement at Coley — His Lodgings — Sickness — Disappoinltnents —
Marriage — Birth of' his Son John — Parental Affection — Birth of
his Son Eliezcr — Death of Mr. Heywood's Mother — Preparation
for Troubles — Neglect of the Lord's Supper and Discipline at
Coley — Ordinances restored — His Joy on the Occasion — Opposition
— Public Calamities — Cheshire Rising — Birth and Death of Mr.
Heywood's Son Nathaniel — Conduct of Mr. Heywood's Opponents
— His I?ivitatiofi to Preston — The Restoration of Charles II —
Death of Mrs. Hey wood — A faithful Servant.
Coley chapel, to which Mr. Heywood was unani-
mously invited, as the scene of his stated labours, and
in the neighbourhood of which he spent above fifty
years in the service of his Master, is situated in the
parish of Halifax. The attachment a person naturally
feels to a place in which he has spent the principal part
of his days, and where he beholds on every hand the
memorials of various circumstances connected with the
most interesting seasons of his life, induced the subject
of this memoir to draw up a paper, entitled, " Parti-
culars respecting Coley, collected by O. Heywood."
The former part was v/ritten in the year 1674, and
the latter, in 1(595. The following are extracts: —
" Tradition tells us, there were two sisters, never
married, that lived at Priestley Green, having large
estates, who built the two chapels, Coley and Lightcliffe,
a mile distant from each other, and both standing in
Hipperholme township ; but in what year, or by what
VOL. I. c
18 I,IFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
inducements they were influenced I cannot learn. Be-
ing built in popish times, possibly they were founded
in superstition ; but the work was good, and it is not
our province to judge of motives at this distance.
This I take notice of, there has been a vast discrepancy
between these two chapels, considering their vicinity,
both as to the ministers of the word and the manners
of the inhabitants. They have scarcely ever had a good
minister atLightcliffe, since the Reformation, except one
Mr. Blanks, about sixty years ago ; and in the late
times of liberty, Mr. Cudworth was about a year with
them, but they hated him and soon got him out : the
rest have been generally loose, tippling preachers; and
like priest, like people. The whole chapelry is much
addicted to profaneness, so that Lightcliffe and Oaken-
shaw have been called Sodom and Gomorrah, and I
have scarcely ever known any serious people live there.
When I have gone by the place, I have often thought
of the sons of the prophets, saying to Elisha, concern-
ing Jericho, ' Behold, I pray thee, the situation of this
city is pleasant, as my lord seeth : but the water is
naught, and the ground barren,' 2 Kings ii. 19- This
I may apply to the waters of the sanctuary and to the
people, bad and barren, otherwise the place is very plea-
sant and fruitful. Comparing these two chapelries, sa
near together, I have thought of Amos iv. 7, ' I have
caused it to rain upon one city, and caused it not to
rain upon another city : one piece was rained upon,
and the piece whereupon it rained not, withered.' I
could tell sad stories from my own knowledge about
ministers and people at Lightcliffe, but my work is not
about them, therefore I shall forbear."
" To return to Coley, which has its name from
Coley-Hall, near an ancient seat of the tenure com-
monly called, St. John of Jerusalem. All the houses
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEr. 19
of this tenure are to have a cross set up on the end
of them, or else they are fineable at the court. Coley-
Hall was a priory in popish times. The ministers
at Coley chapel, since the Reformation in Queen
Elizabeth's days, were the following :'^ —
" 1. After a reader called Sir Adam, Mr. Nichols
commenced preaching : he was a good scholar and an
able expositor, and did good by catechising and ex-
pounding. His successor acknowledged he had fol-
lowed him in two places, and that he had laid a good
foundation of knowledge among the people ; yet he
was addicted to drinking and company. He would
say to his companions, you must not heed me except
when I am three feet above the earth, that is, when I
am in the pulpit. He removed from Coley to Thornton
chapel, in Bradford parish. 2. The next was one Mr.
Gibson, a pious man and an able preacher. How long
he was minister here, I cannot tell ; he left some plate
to the chapel with his name on it. 3. Mr. Ralph
Marsden was a godly, orthodox, and zealous minister,
but much opposed by several professors in this place,
who never rested till they got him out, He then be-
came curate at Ashton-under-Lyne, and was followed
by some heavy afflictions in the latter end of his days.
4. After Mr. Marsden there were several that remained
a very short time. The next settled minister was
Mr. Robt. Hurst, born at Ribchester. His brother
was vicar of Leigh, and was turned out by the act of
Uniformity, and afterwards lived at Macclesfield in
Cheshire. This choice young man was at Coley, seven
or eight years, but fell into a consumption, took his
solemn leave in the chapel, and told the people he had
spent his strength with them, and was able to preach
no more : there were many tears shed at parting.
G 2
20 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEY^VOOD.
He pined away, had his motlier with him, whose
breasts he sucked as long as he was able, and then
died, leaving a sweet savour behind him, both of sound
doctrine and holy life : he was much lamented. 5. Mr.
Denton succeeded. He was a good minister of Jesus
Christ, affluent in his worldly circumstances, and had
several children. He continued here about seven
years ; times were sharp, the bishops being in their
height. In his time came out the book for sports on
the Sabbath days. He saw he could not do what was
required, feared further persecution, and therefore took
the opportunity of going into New England. He re-
turned to Old England about 1659, and lived and died
in Essex. In his time the chapel at Coley was enlarg-
\ . ed. 6. Came Mr. Andrew Latham, a genuine Chris-
tian, born near Prescot in Lancashire : he was but a
young man, yet very hopeful and pious. By his mar-
riage he gave offence, but he soon and suddenly lost
his wife. The first time he preached after her death
was from 1 Cor, vii. 29, 30. Then came on the wars,
and he fled with others when the Earl of Newcastle
lay with his forces about Halifax. He settled at Bury
in Lancashire, at which place he died. On his death-
bed, he earnestly desired to see one seal to his ministry:
and God at last brought one, a j)oor woman in Bury
parish, who gave him great content and made him
bless God for that mercy. He was congregational in
his principles before he died, though he had been other-
wise ; but he never gathered a church, nor acted as an
Independent : he was a holy man and a useful instru-
ment. I received the Lord's supper from his hands at
Bolton church in the Presbyterian wa}% not long before
he died, and methouglit his garments shone as lie came
to me. He was a plain and powerful preacher : I be-
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 21
lieve God did much more good by his ministry than
he knew. I suppose he was at Coley nine or ten years.
7. Came Mr. Giles Clayton from Altham in Lancashire,
a holy man and serious preacher ; though not of emi-
nent parts, yet desirous of doing good. He was be-
tween forty and fifty years of age when he came, and
continued four or five years. He died and was buried
at Halifax. He was succeeded at Altham by good
Mr. Jollie : he made some attempts to set up discipline
here, and to enjoy the sealing ordinance, but could not
effect it, though he was resident in the proper season
for that purpose, in the time of the Long Parliament.
8. The next was Mr. Cudworth, a good scholar, a holy
man, (as was hoped) and a good preacher ; but so ex-
ceedingly melancholy, that it obscured his parts. He
was not at Coley above a year. Then came this poor,
inconsiderable worm, and God took me from my public
work by the Act of Uniformity."
" There were several attempts to bring a preacher to
Coley after I was turned out : and some have been for
a season. 1. Mr. Fisden. 2. Mr. Pattison, whose real
name was White. 3. Mr. Hoole, who continued there
about five years. 4. Mr. Moore, of Baildon, who staid
about half a year. 5. Mr. Furman, who remained
about a year. 6. I^Ir. Bramley, a young man born at
Sowerby, but he soon went away. 7. Mr. Andrew
Lothian, a Scotchman : he came Aug. 9, 1674, and
died Dec. 6, 1675. 8. Mr. Hovey came May 1, 1676.
He was a man of ability, and a high conformist, but
took his leave Nov. 27, 1681. 9. Mr. Lambert, for-
merly lecturer at Halifax, supplied for them at Coley
about six months : when some requested Dr. Hook to
let them have Mr. Hoole of Bradfield ; but he would
not consent, saying, he would rather have Mr. -Hey-
wood. They said with all their hearts ; and some
22 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
came to desire me to preach ; * but my friends did no
judge it expedient. 10. Mr. Timothy Ellison born at
Prescot, whose parents used to receive my brother to
preach in their house : he came July 23, 1682, and
continued to this present year 1695. He prays well,
preaches zealously, and it is said, lives honestly. The
people flock to him and are much affected. Blessed be
God ! O that he may be of some use to them."
The secret, invisible, but powerful hand of God was
engaged in bringing Mr. Heyv\'ood to Coley. " I can-
not but wonder," he says, " what the heads and mem-
bers of this congregation saw in me, so affectionately to
desire, and unanimously to choose a young lad of
twenty-one years of age to be their minister, that I do
not remem.ber the opposition of any one person, rich or
poor, to my election, though another had been tampered
with between my first supplying and my engagement
with them. I cannot also but wonder how my heart
came to be persuaded to it, considering my aversion to
settle in this hilly country ; but God led me with a
strong hand and deceived me into it, and I am willingly
deceived, though contrary to the solicitations of another
people in Lancashire to whom I was more inclined."
Conscious of the vast importance of the work in which
* This was not the only time that attempts were made to ob-
tain his return to Coley Chapel. " Jan. 10, 1676," he says, " there
vv'as a meeting of the townsmen, at which time, E. S. had prepared a
paper, and presented it to the inhabitants, expressive of their de-
sire that 1 might preach at the chapel He requested those pre-
sent to subscribe it, which they did very freely, some of wh=)m
have neither heard nor owned me almost these fourteen years.
This is wonderful, whatever may be the issue. They now profess
they will either have me or none at tlie chapel, and if I may not
preach it shall be vacant. This is strange all things considered,
that they should own a poor, despised, persecuted minister, cast
out as a vessel wherein is no pleasure. Blessed be God."
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 23
he had engaged, and deeply sensible of his insufficiency
for the right and successful discharge of the duties of
the ministerial office, he entered upon it with trembling
steps. His conduct at this season peculiarly commends
itself to the imitation of young ministers. He was
very earnest and frequent in his addresses to the God
of all grace for those supplies which he needed. When
walking abroad, his heart was often engaged in devout
ejaculations, so that he called many places, " Bethels,
Peniels, or Bochim." When in his study, he was very
diligent in laying up a store of useful knowledge, and
very attentive to his preparations for the pulpit. Nor
did he neglect the important work of heart-preparation.
Many were his tears and prayers and self-examinations
before he ascended the pulpit, and having been much
in communion with God in secret, no wonder that his
face shone when he appeared before the people. The
first-fruits of an abundant harvest of souls were given
him to encourage him in the commencement of his work.
When he had been employed at Coley nearly two
years, he thought it his duty publicly to recognize his
pastoral and ministerial engagements by the solemn
rite of ordination. The Presbyterian mode of church
government was then established in England, and he
made application to the second classis of Lancashire
ministers who usually assembled at Bury. The rea-
sons of his application to them in preference to others
were, because Bury was not far from his native place,
and because the ministers were those to whom he was
personally known, and for whom he entertained a great
esteem. The day appointed for this solemnity, was
Aug. 4, 1652 ; and the persons engaged in that work
were the Rev. John Tilsley, of Dean Church, Wm.
Harpur, Peter Bradshaw, Jon. Scholefield, of Heywood
Chapel, Tobias Furniss, of Bury, Thos. Pyke, of Rat-
24 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
cliffe Church, Heniy Peiidlebuiy, of Holcome Chapel,
Rich. Goodwin, of Bolton, and Robt. Bath, of Roch-
dale. He had previously been carefully examined as
to his literary attainments, had disputed the question,
An Pasdobaptismus sit licitus ? whether infant baptism
be lawful ? He had also preached before his examiners
on Rom. x. 15, "How shall they preach except they
be sent?" It was a day much to be remembered, and
the recollection afforded him pleasure a long time
after. " It hath often," he says, " been much satis-
faction to my spirit in the midst of my troubles, to re-
view my regular entrance into the ministry. I had
the unanimous call and consent of my people, manifested
by subscribing their names ; and some aged men sent
as delegates ,to represent the whole, accompanying me
to Bury, where by fasting and prayer, and imposition
of hands, I was set apart to the important office. I
confess I had many sad thoughts and fears about the
time of my »ordination, not so much respecting the
the temporary exercises required as preparatory there-
to ; but principally, my great insufficiency for that high
and holy calling. Such an impression it had on me,
(though I knew not the tithe of duties and difficulties
of what I have since felt,) that I should have been
completely deterred and discouraged therefrom, had not
the outward and inward call from heaven, the concern-
ment of God's glory and the church's necessity, the in-
tentions of my parents, the convictions of my conscience,
the dedication of myself to God by former vows, and
iny putting my hand to the plough, prevailed with me
and pressed me to this service. God was pleased to
conduct me comfortably through the usual exercises,
mightily to enlarge the hearts of his people in prayer,
and graciously to afford assistance to all that were em-
ployed in the work of that day. Mr. Tilsley excellently
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEV. 25
snd profitably gave the exhortation ; and tiiere were
many tears poured forth."
Having thus solemnly, publicly, and fully entered
on his pastoral work at Coley, Mr. H. reviewed his
situation, and the providences that led to that con-
nexion in the following manner : " O what riches of
grace are here ! that thou, who art one of the greatest
of sinners and least of saints, not worthy to be called
(much less to be) a saint, should be a minister, an am-
bassador of the King of kings, and be entrusted with
the most precious pearl that was ever communicated
to the sons of men ! But how camest thou into so
high an office ? Art thou not an intruder ? I hope
not. I came into it in a lawful way, according to
God's word. Though the window was open, and every
one might enter that had a mind, yet I crept not in
thereat ; but entered by the door of an internal call,
inclining, disposing, and, in some measure, qualifying
me thereunto ; and also of aii external call from the
church, moving, selecting, and designing me for that
function. Here is mercy upon mercy ! To be a mi-
nister, and a lawful minister of the gospel, to have to
deal with souls (in an authoritative way) as having
commission from Jesus Christ, my Lord and Master !
Well, but where art thou ? Amongst an affectionate
people, from whom thou hast had a general call and
invitation. They are a willing people, ready to lay
out themselves according to their power. They are
generally an intelligent people too, at least, in compa-
rison with many in other places : the foundation is
laid, and thou hast to build thereupon. Ah, who am
I to succeed so many skilful and faithful predecessors?
They are a tractable and attentive people that give
good heed unto the word, and do many things by way
of outward conformity. Thou mightest have been
Sl6 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. IIEYWOOD.
amongst a humoursome, self-conceited, and presumptu-
ous people, that would have shown their teeth against
thy sharp and plain reproofs. Though thy means are
short, compared with others, yet thou hast a better
supply by thy people's due respect and warm affection.
I had rather have my people's hearts enlarged towards
me, than their purses opened for me. O what a mercy
is here ! it is as much as thou canst wish, and more
than thou deservest. I have been in harmony with
them insomuch, that to my knowledge, I have not
fallen out with great or small in the congregation for
two whole years and upwards : this is a choice mercy,
O bless thy God for it, and ascribe it not to thyself.
Thou art also amongst a people, by whom thou mayest
benefit thy soul in holy conference, secret heart-dis-
coveries, and especially in private days of humiliation ;
for this place hath been famous for professors, I must
confess, indeed, God hath deprived thee of some valu-
able pillars, but he seems to supply their places by
young people. Here indeed is the chief of many mer-
cies : to have some beginnings of conversion, some in-
quiries after heaven, some prickings of heart, this is
worth all ; of other things I have enough. If I have
suitable fruit of my poor labours, and occasion some
glory to God, it were no matter if I beg my bread from
door to door among them : it is better to gain one soul
to Christ than gain a world. Ah, my soul, will it not be
a joyful time when I shall be able to say : * Lo, here
am I, and the children thou hast given me ?' Thou
hast some credit amongst thy people, but then thou
shalt have credit with saints, and angels, even with
Christ himself, and shalt shine as a bright and beau-
tiful star in the holy and happy firmament !"
The first three or four years of his ministry at
Coley, he lodged with a pri^'ate family, where he
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 27
learned some important and useful lessons, from the
character and disposition of the master of the house.
*' Though very kind and courteous to me," he observes,
he exhibited an epitome of carnality and worldliness.
He became a notable school-book and teacher to me
in the infancy of my ministry; in conversing with
whom, I got much insight into, and was well furnished
for answering, those carnal pleas and cavils of mis-
guided souls, which otherwise I should have been un-
acquainted with. I had also not a little help there
in the society of some serious, humble, faithful souls
that I found in the family, especially a servant-man,
a good old disciple, with whom I have taken sweet
counsel-" In a soliloquy, entitled, " Good out of Evil,"
he thus expresses himself on this subject : " How well
hath God wrought for thee, O my soul, in many things
which thou hadst thought had been against thee ; so
that thou hast had cause to bless him for crossing thy
designs, and refusing to answer thy desires ! A carnal,
sensual, profane head of a family in human apprehen-
sion might have been thy bane ; but through God's
mercy it hath contributed much unto thy advan-
tage. Although the Lord hath not succeeded thy
endeavours for the conversion of this poor man, yet,
hast thou not been much bettered by living in this
family ? Thou didst find some holy, self-denying
souls, with whom thou hast had sweet communion,
of whom thou hast received counsel and comfort in
conference, praying, and secret exercises, by which
means, thou hast been delivered from occasions and
temptations to sin. O the benefit of good com-
pany ! Perhaps thou mightest have been overcome in
other families, to the grief of thy heart, the discredit
of religion, and the dishonour of thy God. Though
thou hast not wrought upon the head of the family,
28 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
thou hast been instrumental of good to inferiors.
Hath not conversing with this bewildered creature
been a profit to thy soul ? Hast thou not hereby dis-
covered more of Satan's methods, that thou mightest
oppose them ? Hast thou not been more acquainted
with the sinful reasonings of a carnal heart, that thou
mightest better answer them ? Hast thou not disco-
vered sinners' subterfuges, false rests, and castles in
the air, that thou in ay est demolish them ? Tell me,
O my soul, are not these observable preparatives for
thy future employment ? Hath not this been a good
way to convince thee of the insufficiency of the means
itself for conversion, without the concurrent assistance
of divine grace ? From his o\^^n confession, my host,
unhappy man, hath been terrified sometimes by close
and particular applications ; yet to the grief of my
heart he hath been worse afterwards, which hath
made me say, not theoretically, but experimentally,
that God alone doth all, and that it is the work of om-
nipotence to convert a sinner to God. This hath made
thee to depend upon divine influence and the saving
efficacy of the Spirit to accompany the word. Hath
not this also been an occasion of thy tender compas-
sion to poor, wandering prodigals, and impenitent sin-
ners ? If thou hadst always conversed with believers,
(which still is the happiest thing in the world, next to
communion with God,) thy bowels would not thus
have yearned over sinners, nor prayed so earnestly
for them, nor sought so seriously for their recovery.
God saw this was a good means to try thy faithfulness:
blessed be God for using any means to such an end.
Hast thou not, my soul, by this means, learned to bless
God more sensibly and feelingly for his distinguishing
love? What made thy God to set his love on thee
and not on him ? ^Vas it for thy worth or dignity ?
HIS MINISTRY AT COl^EY. 29
Did he foresee thy nature would be milder, thy parts
brighter, thy acceptance of him readier, or thy service
for him more and better ? O no ! it was free grace
alone that made the difference. Thou wast cut out of
the same cloth for similarity, hewn out of the same
rock for hardness, flowedst out of the same fovmtain
for pollution, and wouldst have been worse than he
had not free grace stepped in. Hath it not also had
some influence on thy practice ? Hast thou not carried
thyself more circumspectly for fear of setting the least
bad example, not knowing how speedily it would be
improved to further profaneness ? Hath it not made
thee, O my soul, more weary of this world and more
willing to be with God ? O trying time now, but joy-
ful time (or rather eternity) then. The owner of my
chamber here may be a Nabal, or son of Belial ; but
the builder and master of that city is God, who hath
provided (free cost) mansions to praise him in for ever."
When Mr. Nath. Hey wood had left Cambridge, and
had come to supply at Illingworth Chapel, the two
brothers engaged a small house and imited in their
housekeeping expences. They had not lived many
months together in this habitation, before Mr. O. H.
was taken so ill one sabbath in the pulpit, that he was
obliged to break off the service abruptly and return
home. He was attacked by a severe fever which con-
fined him to the house about three weeks : indeed he
was sick nigh unto death; but God had mercy on him,
and not on him only but on the church also, for he
had but just entered into that sphere of usefulness for
which he afterwards became so eminent. The state of
his mind under affliction cannot be better described
than in his own language ; " How is it with thee now,
O my soul, when the casket that keeps this precious
jewel is so cracked ? What say est thou, trembling in-
30 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
habitant, when thy house begins to fail, and the founda^
tions of this tabernacle of clay are felt to totter ? art
thou troubled ? thy head was sick through a blind and
perverse understanding, and thy heart faint through
weakness in grace and strength of sinning ; now thy
head doth ache with pain, and thy heart is sick with a
grievous distemper. God will retaliate with a judg-
ment suitable to the offence. Acknowledge the justice
of awarding suffering according to thy sin, and admire
God's goodness that it is not more severe ; praise him
for his gentleness and pity ; inprove this blessed op-
portunity to get thy heart nearer heaven and fiu'ther
-» from the world ; long for thy house from above, and
wait for it till it come, and watch over thy heart. The
alarm is sounded, the signal is given, therefore lay
down thy weapons, surrender thyself as the Lord's
prisoner, he will not harm, but deliver thee. Is not a
happy deliverance better than a cruel slavery ? Fear
not God's call, it is but to bring thee to himself, and
canst thou be in an evil place when in God's presence,
who is the perfection of happiness ? But stay, he
comes not yet, thy time is not yet expired, thy sun
is not yet set ; knowest thou that ? Granted ; but will
it therefore follow that he will not come at all ? Will
it be any disadvantage to thee to be ready long before
death come? surely not, but the contrary. What
comfort will redound to thee thereby, and what glory
to God ! Thou wilt not stand in constant fear, nor be
affrighted then by the symptoms of death's near ap-
proach, but triumph in the thought thereof, although
the manner may be unpleasant to the flesh. If thou
couldst but look above or beyond death and the grave,
and fix thy thoughts upon thy rich inheritance in re-
version, thy life would be an Eden, and thy death a
Goshen." The peculiar support he enjoyed in this
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 3l
sickness, derived from his lively faith in gospel pro-
mises, made him even to long for the time of his dis-
solution, when his hopes would be exchanged for pos-
session. " My soul desired death," he says, " rather
than life, or rather a better life by means of natural
death. O what would I have given that I might have
sinned no more, but departed into that blessed and
blissful communion with God of which my soul had a
little transient foretaste. I was loth to be turned in-
to the world again ; yet I was freely willing to submit
to the disposing will of my gracious God ; and it seems
he had yet some further work for me to do."
The impressions made on his mind by this visitation
were not transient. He had called upon God in the
day of trouble, and having obtained deliverance, he re-
solved to glorify the God of his mercies. In his afflic-
tion he had used the language of prayer, and having re-
ceived answers of peace, he then employed the language
of praise. After his recovery he wrote the following
record of God's kindness, and his own gratitude : " It
was my God that in love brought me both into and out
of the pit of affliction, and cast all my sins behind his
back. It was he that considered the low estate of his
servant, delivered me from the gates of the grave, and
rescued me from the king of terrors. It is he that
hath preserved me, and hath again brought me to walk
before the Lord in the land of the living, while he hath
sent others to their long home who were as strong as I.
It was he that gave me favour in the sight of so many,
and sent so many Christians and others to visit me,
not empty-handed, nor empty-hearted. It was he that
put it into the minds of his people to commend my
state to God at the lowest ebb, when I could do so lit-
tle. It was he that answered me in the day when I
cried, and strengthened me in my soul. It was he that
32 I,I1'E OF THE UEV. (). IIEYWOOD.
made my bed in my sickness, mitigated my pains, and
gave me all the helps of creature-comforts that my
heart could desire. It was he that restored my health
when I said, * I shall see man no more,' I shall never
stand up in my pulpit again to speak to my affectionate
people. But God hath brought me once more into the
great congregation, where I may shew forth his loving-
kindness, and tell what great things he hath done for
me. ' The living, the living shall praise thee as I do
this day.' ' Bless the Lord, O my soul ; and all that
is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O
my soul, and forget not all his benefits ; who forgiveth
all thine iniquities ; who healeth all thy diseases ; who
redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee
with loving-kindness and tender mercies.' All the
ways of the Lord are mercy and truth ; in faithfulness
did he afflict me, and in loving-kindness did he deliver
me : heaven and earth are full of his praise. O my
soul, bless thou the Lord ! But what impressions of
devotion hath this affliction left upon thee? What
profit hast thou obtained thereby ? What fruit of holi-
ness proceedeth fiom this tree of sorrow ? What duties
doth it make thee observe ? What lust doth it make
thee mortify ? Was not the time of affliction filled with
divine consolations and joys, and hast thou not more
liberty now, and better opportunity for God's work ?
Must God be minded at no other time but when his
rod is over thee and his hand upon thee ? Wilt thou
seek him early and earnestly in thine affliction and not
in prosperity ? For shame, my soul, be not so dull ;
away with thy mourning righteousness : j^erform thy
resolutions and pay thy vows. Acknowledge God's
care, and thy fears, as Hezekiah did in his well com-
posed song after his recovery, or with Jonah after he
had escaped from the belly of hell. Lay up experience
ttiS MINISTRY AT COLEV. 33
against the time to come of God's interposition in
answering requests, fulfilling promises, accomplishing
his designs, discovering his presence, and keeping thee
from sinning notoriously or sinning cowardly under
this affliction. ' Tribulation worketh patience ; and
patience, experience ; and experience, hope : and hope
maketh not ashamed.' It is a miserable thing to lose
the benefit of affliction. Improve it as one of the
talents for which thou must give a strict account ; lay
it out to thy Lord and Master's best advantage.
Learn to trust more confidently in God, to delight in
him more, to walk more closely with him, to watch
more over thy heart, to run more cheerfully in his
ways, to do his will more angelically, to carry thyself
more circumspectly, to exercise grace more vigorously,
to resist against temptations more manfully, and to
conquer spiritual enemies more triumphantly."
Mr. Heywood was now about twenty-six years of
age, and had remained in a single state : but he did
not think it good that man should be alone, and there-
fore had been some time in search of an agreeable com-
panion for life. In so important an undertaking, he
was resolved to act with prudence, and, as far as he
could judge, according to the will of God. "After
I had continued here a considerable time," he says,
" I looked out for a suitable helpmeet. I was directed
to divers, and then stopped in my progress. Many
times I had good hopes that I was near a conjugal
relation, but was disappointed by some strange means
or other. This was no small trouble to me, but was
the means of humbling my heart, and sending me
more frequently and earnestly to the throne of grace.
I was often afraid of missing my way, and as often
begged direction, pleading this promise, that God will
teach the humble his way, and the meek he will guide
VOL. 1. D
34 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
ill judgment. I desired not to follow my own fancy,
but God's counsel. Such observable providences as I
noticed about this time concerning these things, did
mightily prevail upon me to wean me from the world
and set my heart on heaven : yea, I have been con-
vinced thereby of the deceit of strong impressions and
persuasions that such things would come to pass."
These disappointments and delays he endeavoured to
improve to some spiritual advantage in a Soliloquy,
entitled, " Hope Deferred," in which he thus expresses
himself: "O my soul, set faith at work and let prayers
fly and rend the heavens : it may be, God will be
moved to pity. If he withdraw, yet let him not
depart ; if he depart, follow as hard as faith winged
with love can fly, and then he will return and leave a
blessing behind : if not, yet wait a while and keep in
God's own way, and he shall strengthen thy heart.
Holy patience has a glorious recompense, and in the
close thou shalt not lose a jot, for thy reward is with
the Lord. Beware of setting thy heart on an outward
mercy. God sees not as man seeth, nor doth he bring
to pass what poor, ignorant souls desire, but what his
infinite wisdom thinks best. Be not thy own carver.
Follow God's direction, and then thou mayest be sure
of his guardian care. Limit not the Holy One of
Israel, by setting bounds to his beneficence or thy pa-
tience. Long-sought and dear bought mercies are
sweet and sure mercies. Ponder thy own ingra-
titude for favours conferred, and check thy murmur-
ing for favours denied. Set thy judgment at work as
well as thy will, and let understanding act its part as
well as affections. Wilt thou follow a painted shadow,
and set thy heart upon a little glittering dust ? Wilt
thou be overcome with a piece of gilded clay, and ad-
mire a skin-deep beauty, which can be easily converted
HIS MINISTKY AT COLEY. 35
into deformity, and will ere long return to dust and
corruption ? But, thou wilt say, there was something
more than this which was the ground of my affection,
namely, a discovery of glory within and excellency of
God's image stamped upon the soul. Suppose it were
so, (as thou hast good ground to believe,) may not
another be found as desirable ? Thine eyes are dim,
and thou dost not certainly know what is, and what is
not a blessing. Moderate thy desires then, bridle thy
affections, and put a curb upon thy roving imagin-
ations. Come, my soul, let me lead thee in a rational
way. Stay awhile and wait God's time, for he is
waiting to be gracious to thee, when thou art prepared
for the mercy. He will meet thee in his own time
and way, and when it comes, it will be the surest and
most seasonable blessing that ever thou hadst in thy
life. In the mean time, if God cause thee to live more
to him, and ha^^o' more communion with him, it will
be equivalent to the blessing itself."
If hope was for a season deferred, it was not finally
disappointed ; and if Mr. H. was not successful, in some
instances, according to his wishes, it was because a
greater blessing was in reserve. Miss Elizabeth
Angier, who had enjoyed the advantages of a pious
education, and had early been the subject of religious
experience, was well known for the amiableness of her
natural disposition, and her personal accomplishments.
It was the happiness of Mr. H. not only to become ac-
quainted with her, but to entertain an affection which
originated in the purest motives, and met with the
sincere approbation of all the parties concerned. He
had long been accustomed to venerate the piety and
talents of the Rev. John Angier, and esteemed it a
peculiar honovir and privilege to be admitted into the
relationship of son-in-law to this man of God. It
T>2
S^ LIFE OF THE llEV. (). IIEYWOOD.
was Mr, Angler's opiuion, that marriage should not
only be publicly solemnized, but that it should be pre-
ceded by a mutual and religious contract. His daugh-
ter and Mr. H. therefore were pledged to each other,
at the close of a solemn day of prayer and fasting, in
Mr. Angler's study, when Mr. Nathaniel Rathband
preached from Matt. i. 18, " His mother Mary was
espoused to Joseph." This was about a month before
their marriage, which took place at Denton Chapel,
April 25th 1655, on which occasion, Mr. Harrison, of
Ashton, preached from Eph. v. 31. Mr. Angier, was
unable to attend the ceremony in person, being at
that time indisposed by an attack of the gout, with
which he was frequently troubled. Nearly a hundred
persons were afterwards entertained in a decent and
sober manner at his table ; for he said, " he loved to
have a marriage like a marriage," taking for his ex-
ample, the attendance of Christ at -ehe marriage at
Cana, in Galilee.
Mr. H. was much attached to his amiable partner,
not only on account of her personal excellencies, but
because of her pious relatives. " She was not only re-
ligiously descended for many generations," he observes,
** but her immediate parent was, and is, a distinguished
preacher in these northern counties ; so gracious, faith-
ful, and successful a minister is Mr. Angier, that he is
universally reverenced, none having occasion to open
their mouths against such a man. It exceedingly
pleaseth me to think that the partner of my cares and
enjoyments is the daughter of a gospel preacher, whose
employment I prize more highly for the greatness of
the work and the transcendency of the object than the
highest preferment in the world. What mercies, O
my soul, hath God bestowed on thee, both spiritual
and temporal, in answer to thy poor distracted prayers.
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 37
Among the rest this is not the least. A prudent wife is
from the Lord ; yea, he that finds a wife finds a good
thing and obtaineth favour of the Lord. This favour
God hath showed me, he hath given me the desire of
mine eyes, the comjjanion of my youth. But this
blessing as bestowed on me hath many attendant cir-
cumstances that heighten my comfort and gratitude.
1. It was given me as an answer to prayer, which
multiplies the favour and gives it a sweeter relish.
2. It came in God's own time, which is always the
best and most seasonable. My impatient spirit had
fixed limits to the Lord, and I was loth to stay his time
and wait his choice; but now I see God's time is better
than mine, and his perfect wisdom better than my per-
fect folly. 3. It came in God's way. My wife is not
carried off by me, but sent by God. How much sor-
row would a clandestine marriage have produced !
Blessed be my God, all parties were not only satisfied
but rejoiced. 4. God hath given me the seed of the
faithful. Her reverend and renowned father is as the
Phoenix of the ministry, an angel of God for gravity,
humility, w^isdom, holiness, zeal, and all ministerial
abilities ; yea, he is a Jacob, a prince with God ; a
Moses, a man of God ; an Aaron, a saint of the Lord.
I prize the stock and treasure of the prayers and tears
of a conscientious minister and Christian above the
richest dowry, rarest beauty, costliest robes, noblest
friends, largest revenues, and most exquisite accommo-
dations in the world. I value the office of a good minis-
ter more than the magnificence of an emperor, and
the counsel of my father more than the prince's favour.
But many a corrupt branch hath come from a holy
root : yet, 5. God hath given me a gracious com-
panion, a daughter of Abraham, one that is a fellow-
citizen with the saints, and of the household of faith.
38 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEY WOOD.
whose name is written in the book of life ; one that is
accounted worthy of the kingdom of God, faithful and
beloved, and a partaker of the benefits of the gospel.
This is worth a world ! to have a wife full of the fruits
of righteousness, to go along with me heavenwards,
to lead on others by a good example, to advise, instruct,
and pray for others, to mourn over abominations, and
to seek after reformation ; O who am I, that I should
be trusted with one of God's jewels? Every good wo-
man is not indeed a suitable wife, but blessed be God,
6. I have a true help-meet. God hath given me an
humble, prudent, frugal, ingenuous companion, of a
mild, flexible disposition, with whom I may take sweet
counsel, who is of my own sentiments, and with whom
I can walk to the house of God. What an affliction
hath many a man had in a wife that was religious,
but whose principles or natural disposition were dis-
cordant. But God hath so framed our natures as if
they had been cast in the same mould, •whereby abun-
dant peace and tranquillity are in the family, a good
example is set to others, and much comfort to our own
spirits ; these are not our own deserts, but the gracious
work of God for us. Blessed be the Lord for my wife !
And I desire to bless her in the name of the Lord."
Great as Mr. Hey wood's joy was in his union to
Miss Angier, like all other earthly comforts, it was not
free from alloy. Mrs. H. was of a weak habit of body
and frequently indisposed ; so that even on the morn-
ing of her marriage, it was at first supposed she would
be unable to leave her room on account of indisposition.
Mr. H. was thus early taught to " rejoice as though
he rejoiced not." About a year after marriage their
eldest son was born, whom they called John, from the
respect they entertained for his grandfather Mr. John
Angier. Some circumstances connected with the birth
Ills MINISTRV AT COLEY. 39
of this child are thus gratefully noticed by Mr, H.
*' Recount, O my soul, what God hath done for thee !
Though a wife, and such a wife, be a rich mercy, yet
thou wouldst not have been well satisfied if he had not
given thee issue ; and herein God hath condescended
to favour thee. I now see the desire of my heart, for
this was a return of prayer. God also stood by the
mother in the time of trouble. He heard before we
had called ; for when we had designed a day for seek-
ing his face, he sent the mercy we intended to suppli-
cate. I desire to dedicate the child all his days to the
service of the church, as the best and highest office to
which he can be advanced. Who am I, that God should
set me over a family, make me a master, a husband,
and a father, as if he purposed to heap on me all the
mercies of which a creature is capable ! Surely these
are the Lord's doings and marvellous in mine eyes !
Why did I not lose my dear wife as Jacob lost Rachel?
Why gave she not up the ghost as the wife of Phinehas?
Why had I no occasion to call my son Ichabod, in sor-
rowful lamentation ? The free grace of God is the
fountain of all this ! Who would not be the servant of
such a God, who keepeth covenant and reserveth mercy
to thousands ? He is the same yesterday, and to-day,
and for ever, to them that fear him and keep his com-
mandments."
This new relationship of a father brought with it its
cares as well as its comforts. Mr. H. well knew the
worth of the soul and the necessity of regenerating
grace for all the sons of Adam. God having given
him a son, he felt and thus expressed himself as a chris-
tian parent in what he calls, " Parents' groans," and
'* Affections compared :" " Whilst we are in this world
Xve are always wanting something. The body and
soul have their constant necessities, and we are never
40 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEVWOOD.
SO full as not to desire more either for ourselves or
ours. When I was single I was desirous of a wife, and
when I had a wife I was desirous of having a family.
Now I have a son, and I beg his life and health as
well as his mother's. Since he is born in my own
image, in the likeness of sinful Adam, I now want for
his soul the grace of regeneration, adoption, and justi-
fication. I desire not great things for him in the
world, but good things for his soul to prepare him for
another and a better world. () that his soul may live
in God's sight, and find grace in his eyes ! O that, as
Christ, he may grow in favour with God and man !
If I should have no worldly wealth to leave him, yet
if God give him an interest in Christ and the promises,
I shall say it is enough, for he will not want any good
thing. This is what I long for, wait for, and pray for;
if my child have this, he will be fit for life or death.
May God fully answer the signification of his name,
and make him another John ! May he be not only the
" gift of God" in general, but have grace from God for
all christian and ministerial employments, and go in
the spirit and power of Elias, as the forerunner of
Ciirist did. May he have the qualifications of the be-
loved disciple and affectionate apostle, and the spiri-
tual revelations of John the divine. This is my com-
fort, that though I can do but little for God, yet I
may have a seed that may serve him when I am laid
in the grave, and gone to my long home."
"I now see and feel more experimentally, God's in-
finite love and my parents' warm affection for me than
ever before. My passionate love to my child speaks
my parents' pathetic love to me. Was it not love that
])ut them to all those pains and offices for my good,
when I could not help myself? What condescension
to my childish desire, what prudent indulging of my
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 41
htimoursome and troublesome inclinations, what pity-
ing of my infirmities, and in all things what consulting
of my advantage ! Was it not from love ? Did this
love grow weary? No, no, difficulties increased it,
and many waters could not quench it. Hindering of
business in the day, breaking of sleep in the night,
providing things convenient, and a thousand cares be-
long to these living possessions ; yet all these were
borne with delight, and so far from grudging they took
pleasure in attending me : all this proceeded from love.
As face answers to face in the water, so I can read my
parent's love to me in the beatings of my pulse towards
my child. Though I am almost a stranger to parental
affections, and expect their growing with the thriving
object, yet I can partly guess how dear my parents'
thoughts were, and continue to be. O what prayers,
fears, and tears did they pour out on my behalf ! Little
do children think, ah ! little did I think, what yearn-
ings of bowels, what meltings of heart, what impetuous
actings of mixed affections, parents have towards chil-
dren in their infancy, youth, and riper years, whether
present or absent, in health or sickness. Their love
to me was mingled with hatred to my faults, or what
would hurt me ; their joy was united with grief for
my painful distempers or corrupt nature ; their hopes
of me were mingled with fears and jealousies relative
to future misconduct ; their anger was tempered with
meekness ; thus and abundantly more were my parents'
breasts perturbed for me, and now I begin to know
something of it. Yet all these are as nothing in com-
parison of the displays of God's love to poor rebellious
creatures. Here stand admiring, O my soul, and fol-
low that feeling resemblance, so often repeated in God's
word, of his fatherly affection towards his adopted
children, which however is as dissimilar as the shadow
42 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
to the substance, as a drop to the ocean, as a spark to
the sun. He loves after a different manner from that
of the dearest father or tenderest mother. Theirs is
natural, his is spiritual affection ; theirs is temporary,
his from eternity and to eternity ; theirs by instinct or
impulse of nature, his is free ; theirs is because of some
excellency, his is to those that have no beauty, nothing
but deformity and when lying in their blood. Parents
would very rarely die for their children ; yet his love
brought him to the grave. Parents may possibly for-
get their children ; but God's eye is upon those that
are his, and his heart towards them. Though parents
love their children they cannot always accomplish
what their love designs ; but God doth. What father's
love can equal liis ? Avhat mother's affection will run
parallel with his ? Let God's love be the nonsuch,
and let man write after this copy. Let me love God
with all my might and soul ; yea, let me love God for
himself and all other things in and for him, and put all
things in a due subordination to him. Beware, my
soul, of splitting on the rock of inordinate affection.
Thou canst not overlove thy God ; but thou mayest
easily transgress in overloving dear relations. Get na-
tural affections spiritualized and so love as a Christian,
lest strong affection exceed moderation. To overlove
is the very way to lose the mercy ; for when God sees
the object is more prized than himself, if he love that
soul, he will remove the interposing object, that the
torrent of affection may be turned into the right chan-
nel. Learn to love as if thou lovedst not, and to be
weaned from the dearest outward enjoyments. The
affections are the most deceitful part of thy deceitful
heart. Learn to look upon thy child as a dying crea-
ture, and to bury it whilst it lives, that thy comforts
may survive its death. It is but lent thee for a sea-
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 43
son, be willing therefore to return it to the owner at
his call."
April 18, 1657, Eliezer, the second son of Mr. Hey-
wood, was born ; this was exactly a year after the
birth of the first-born. Thus far, the days Mr. H.
had spent at Coley, were peculiarly happy ; he seemed
to enjoy all that heart could wish. As a minister, he
was beloved by the people of his charge, and made the
instrument of good to many souls ; as a Christian, he
had been growing in knowledge and grace, and enjoyed
much of the presence of his God ; and as a man, he
was blessed with an amiable consort, the object of his
choice, and a fellow-heir of future glory, and was now
honoured with an increasing family to perpetuate his
name in the world. But a constant succession, or
even the long continuance pf enjoyments does not fall
to the lot of sinful man: it is the privilege of the inha-
bitants of heaven only, to have all tears wiped away
from their eyes, and to dwell where " there shall be no
more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, nor any more
pain." The birth of Eliezer was attended with a va-
riety of afflictive dispensations. About the time of
Mrs. Heywood's expected confinement, her husband
was taken ill. Mr. Heywood's affectionate mother,
hearing of the situation of her son's family, came from
Lancashire to render all the assistance in her power,
though at the same time, she also was labouring under
severe bodily infirmities. Mr. H. recovered from his
indisposition, his wife was graciously supported in her
trying situation, and his son was born : but four days
after the birth of his son, his mother died under his
roof.
These circumstances gave rise to the following re-
flections : " Take a view, my soul, of the late occur-
rences in thy family, and make a holy use of them.
44 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
Such losses and gains, mercies and afflictions in this
month, yea, in a single week, never happened before
in all thy life. The God of heaven first struck thee
with sickness, which occasioned thy dear mother to
come and visit thee, who fell sick, languished a while,
and died, while thy dear, dear wife was safely delivered
of another son. These are remarkable events of Provi-
dence. O my soul, dwell a little on them. See if
thou canst not read God's meaning in these lines, and
make some use of the variety of letters, which this
leaf in thy history contains. It was not for nothing
that God did threaten thee once again with a fatal
disease. At first, there were similar symptoms of ap-
proaching sickness, as in thy former fever ; but God
only threatened, the shower came not, only a few drops
fell, and so it passed away. Blessed be God, that
kept thee only one sabbath away from the public
ordinances ; the third day he did revive thee, and now
thou livest in his sight. O my soul, let this mercy be
like Aaron's rod to blossom, and let suitable fruit ap-
pear in thy life and conversation. But because thou hast
a deceitful, careless heart, and canst not bear nor use
such comforts, God put a grain of bitterness into this
cup of mercy. It was not for nothing that thy God
did thus dispose matters, that thy mother, such a mo-
ther as is very rare, a daughter of Abraham, one of a
thousand, an eminent member of Israel's family, a
wrestler and prevailer with the Lord, should come and
take her last farewell of the world in this thy family,
at such a time, and that she should be the first fruit of
death in thy house. It was no mean honour that God
vouchsafed to thee, that she who was the means of thy
life, who loved thee so dearly, who breathed out her
soul in fervent prayers for thee, should breathe her
last under thy roof, and that thou shouldst be the
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 45
Joseph to dose her eyes. O the breach that is made !
How shall it be filled up ? Such a gracious saint is
not easily found ; and shall it be altogether lost ?
I know it is her infinite gain. Shall not we have
gain also that survive? May those for whom she
poured out her cries and tears get gain ! O that her
dear husband, our honoured father, may acquire more
spiritual supplies from above, and her whole family be
gainers ! O that we may have an increase of all those
divine graces, that did so illustriously shine in her
soul ! May we, whom God hath put into public
places, have such warmth of religion in our hearts,
such public spirit, well-meaning simplicity, gravity
and sincerity, as she had, be as free from sinister ends,
as active in doing good, and as willing to spend and
be spent in God's service as she was ! Possibly, the
benefit of her prayers may be extended to us in our
holy office. How often have I found God's quickening
and supporting presence in public, at the very time
she was devoutly engaged in private. When God
helped her heart to pray, he enabled me to speak : and
shall I altogether lose the benefit thereof? Are not
many prayers yet on the file ? This is my comfort,
my friend may die, but God doth live, and prayers may
live ; therefore the fountain of my comforts doth con-
tinue. Though my loss be great, God can make it
fully up another way, and give me cause to say, O
gainful loss ! O comfortable trial ! O heart-melting
providence ! We had a more cheering and direct
mercy about that time in the deliverance of my dear
and tender wife, the sweetness of which did somewhat
moderate the bitterness of the other afflictive cup : as
one was made ripe for heaven and went from this
world ; so another came into it. May he also be
trained up to be an heir of glory ! O that he may
4{) LIFE OF THE KEY. O, HEVWOOD.
grow up to fill the gap that has been made ! Already
there hath been much of God's power and faithfulness
experienced, according to the signification of his name,
Eliezer, the God of my help. God helped the mother
when she was brought low, yea, he was remarkably
seen, a present help in time of trouble. O that he
would help the lad also, and be with him as he hath
been with her ! O that he would help us all our
days, that we may set up our Samuel's stone, saying,
"Hitherto the Lord hath helped us!' May he help
us by one mercy after another in our pilgrimage, by
providences and ordinances, from step to step, from
strength to strength, that we and ours may be so
helped on by grace, as that we may arrive at glory to
joy in the God of all our mercies through all eternity."
The death of his mother was only the beginning of
sorrows. Mr. H. had hitherto enjoyed the sunshine
of comfort with his people, but a severe storm was
gathering, the effects of which were very distressing.
*' My first apprenticeship," he observes, " of almost
seven years passed on very quietly and comfortably,
and with as much encouragement, in some respects, as
my heart desired. While the blossom was budding, it
was fair sunshine and calm weather ; but now, when I
came to some maturity, (at least, when I could better
bear it,) I experienced many a bitter blast and nipping
frost. The Lord warded off the malevolent tongue
and hands of men, so that they did not assualt me, no,
not a dog moved his tongue against me, that I knew
of. Indeed, there was not that occasion, for while I
only preached the word, the sharpest passages being
only general, did not much exasperate : however, they
did not show their teeth as they have done since. I
do not judge myself better deserving respect than other
pious ministers. O no ! I am the unworthiest of the
HIS MINISTRY AT COI.EY. 47
tribe of Levi : yet few have had so large a share of
comfort ; because, it may be, God saw I needed more
encouragement, being weaker than others, and that a
little opposition would discompose my spirit and
hinder my progress; therefore he spared me, as a man
doth a tender child. He gave me liberty to muster
and prepare for further service, to rig my ship for
storms, to fortify myself by degrees, to lay in ammu-
nition and provision for a siege, that my forehead
might become hard, and my brow brass, against the
workers of iniquity."
The occasion of this uneasiness to which he refers,
was an attempt to restore the administration of the
Lord's supper, which had not been celebrated at Coley
for several years before Mr. H.'s settlement at the
place, and also to establish church-discipline, which
had been totally neglected. The want of the ordinance
of the Lord's supper he thus deplores : " Whence
comes it to pass, O my soul, that we have been so long
deprived of that sealing ordinance, the Lord's supper?
Was our dear Saviour so careful in his bitter agony to
leave this friendly legacy, and are we so careless of his
token of love, that we scarcely seek out for it? Surely
this imports much ingratitude to him, and cruelty to
ourselves. None of God's appointments are in vain,
and they will prove a channel to convey divine influ-
ences, if duly, regularly, and conscientiously improved.
In this ordinance especially, a gracious soul may be
satisfied with the breasts of consolation. Indeed, other
ordinances, preaching, praying, reading, meditating,
and baptism, have their several needful and useful
purposes for regeneration and confirmation ; but of
this holy supper, we may say, as of Goliah's sword,
*' there is none like it." Here we see the soul's fat
pasture and still waters, where it may feed on the
48 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
bread of life, and drink those living waters which come
from under the threshold of the sanctuary : this is
Christ's flesh, that is meat indeed, and his blood, that
is drink indeed. Here grows the tree of life, bearing
all manner of fruit, the very leaves of which are for
the healing of the nations. This is a part of the
paradise of God, a resemblance of the large upper
room in which Christ ate bread with his disciples ;
yea, a presage of the everlasting feast in glory. This
is as the gate of heaven, where God sends angels by
Jacob's ladder to bring good news ; yea, he comes
himself to sup with his people. Here we may see the
ocean of Christ's blood that quenched the flame of di-
vine wrath. The close hypocrite and profane Esau
may possibly crowd in at this feast, as the man with-
out a wedding garment requisite for gospel quali-
fication, and so receive the outward elements without
the spirit of the ordinance ; but the gracious soul ac-
cepts it as a pledge of God's peculiar love and feeds on
Christ by this medium. The lukewarm Laodicean
and general professor may take it as a common meal,
or as bread of deceit and water of strife ; but a worthy
communicant considers it, like Benjamin's mess, five
times larger, better, and sweeter than his daily food.
Blessed are they who drink of these rivers of pleasure,
and whose souls are nourished with the fatness of God's
house. Others may and do enjoy these comforts ; but
alas ! we want them. And wherefore do we want
them ? Of this we cannot give a good account. We
have waited for this ordinance many years, and still
wait God's time to enjoy it in God's way ; but, as yet,
' the harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are
not saved.' We stand still and would see God's salva-
tion without our own endeavours ; we say it is not time
yet to build God's house. ^Ve look for miracles from hea-
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 49
ven and engage not in the work ; we make obstructions,
and say, ' there is a lion in the way.' Alas ! we may
wait years and ages, and not be any nearer unless we
buckle to. Who knows hov/ plain God may make our
way when we begin to walk, and how he may assist us
by his g-race when we are resolved to overcome all cp-
position? He can make all mountains to become a
plain before Zerubbabel. My soul, be not afraid but
valiant ; let not false, perfidious friends, nor open pro-
fessed foes put thee in fear. The cause is God's and
he will bear thee out. One ordinance is worth a v/orld
of pains; and one smile from God therein will counter-
balance all our troubles. Satan will raise his legions of
enemies, and invent his lies and slanders : the black
regiment will soon be mustered to break in pieces the
bonds of church-government, and cast away the cords
of scripture doctrine, for the whole Vv'orid is mad upon
liberty ; and canst thou expect to be at peace with
Christ's enemies, and yet remain his friend ? God and
mammon cannot be united, therefore have nothing to
do with the unfruitful works of darkness, but reprove
them. I confess, reforming is an ungrateful work ; but
Christ declared, purifying the temple was his meat and
drink. A distinguishing separation is harsh to carnal
minds. Be serious and deliberate ; consult with God
and take advice of his church ; do nothing rashly ; get
a good wairant and a good conscience to bear thee out
against all opposition. Be sure to walk uprightly, and
then thou wilt walk surely ; seek to engage God on
thy side by following his instructions, that thou mayest
act under his protection. Who would live in the
midst of broils and contentions when he might be out
of them ? But remember Christ, ' who for the joy
that was set before him endured the cross, despised the
shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne
VOL. I. E
50 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
of God.' Serve God in tliy generation, and strive after
the church's peace and comfort in thy station. Improve
thy interest to recover a lost ordinance and build up
the walls of Jerusalem. In the mean time make the
best improvement of the loss."
From the sentiments expressed in the above soli-
loquy, it is evident he could not satisfy his mind, with-
out making' some attempt to restore the long-neglected,
but important ordinance of the Lord's supper at Coley.
He was well aware, that many a good design has failed
through want of prudence in the manner in which the
affair was begun : he therefore consulted his judicious
father, Angier, and adopted that plan which was
likely to give least offence, and yet effect his purpose.
Fully persuaded he was walking in the path of duty,
and aiming at the glory of God in the good of his
church, he was regardless of consequences. He pre-
pared the way by some sermons on the subject,- and
then appointed a day for those persons to meet him at
the chapel who were favourable to the object. Many
came, and it was proposed that a few individuals, of
acknowledged piety and wisdom, should be appointed
by that meeting to assist him in the examination of
those who expressed a desire of becoming commu-
nicants : but this measure was not adopted, and the
whole of the work devolved on himself. Above one
hundred and twenty persons applied, from many of
whom he received abundant and unexpected satisfac-
tion. Several, labouring under trouble of mind, and
prevented by timidity from making their situation
known to him, were glad of this opportunity ; and
he rejoiced greatly to find his labours were far
more blessed than he had supposed. The names of
those approved were publicly announced to the whole,
and if objections were entertained against any, they
HTS MTNISTllY AT COLEV. 51
were to be made known to him before the day appoint-
ed for the administration of the ordinance.* Some
persons of improper character were offended at his
mode of proceeding, and threatened to make a distur-
bance by applying at the time the ordinance was to be
observed ; but they were so impressed by the morning
sermon that their courage failed.
Having so far succeeded, his heart was filled with
joy, and he thus describes the state of his mind on the
occasion : " Record, O my soul, the memorable acts of
God's distinguishing providence, relative to distin-
guishing ordinances, and relinquish not the privilege
of the supper so lately enjoyed. Time was, when thou
longedst with David for the water of the well of Beth-
lehem, and thy soul fainted with hunger and thirst.
Now, through some peril and hazardous attempts, thou
hast obtained thy object, and the supply proves not
water but wine — not wine, but blood — not the blood
of David's worthies, but the blood of the Son of God ;
the bread is not ordinary bread, but manna ; yea,
above the bread that came down from heaven : the
blood of Christ is drink indeed, and his flesh, meat
indeed. How often hath the Lord's day been the
delight of my soul, holy and honourable ; but the last
was the best, my soul was almost overjoyed : it was
the first time this invaluable ordinance had been cele-
* In a private record of church-transactions among his MSS.
he has the following entry : " I made an attempt to set up disci-
pline ; and by the good hand of my God did attain it, so far as to
restore the sealing ordinance, while I was public preacher at Coley
chapel ; and we enjoyed that sweet ordinance from 1G55 to 1660,
and some time after the king was restored. The names of such
as sat down with us are these, many of whom are now dead, and
some join not with us." Then follows a list of seventy-three names.
In a note, he says : " Almost forty of the old communicants have
gone to their long home. July 12, 1676."
E 2
52 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
brated in this place for the last sixteen years. How
did my heart leap at the restitution of it ! With what
joy did I read and repeat the institution ! O whence
is this to me, that I should be instrumental in restoring
this solemn ordinance ! It is true, indeed, all things
are not as could be desired ; there are many things
amiss, too many inconsistent members, and too few
assistant officers. Yet, O my soul, do not obscure the
glory of the mercy thou enjoyest. The Lord hath
helped thee beyond expectation ; for though our be-
ginnings are small, he doth not despise the day of
small things. The adversaries mocked at our solemn
assemblies, and derided our consultations ; but ' where-
in they dealt proudly, he was above them ;' their
words were but v/ind, and their threats of little force;
God was on our side, and took our part, the enemies
themselves being judges. Who would have thought
so great a work could have been carried on so far,
managed by so weak an instrument, with so little as-
sistance, and in the midst of so much discouraging
opposition ! Surely the hand of the Lord was in all
this ! Though we were a poor, despised company of
weak individuals, deserted, if not opposed, by the rich
of the congregation, who v/ould not put their necks
under the yoke of Christ, yet hath the Lord helped us
in the discharge of our duty. When some threatened
they would offer themselves at the ordinance, to see
if I would pass them by, the power of God's word did
so prevail, that they withdrew from their intended
design. With respect to some, who had been examined
by me, and concerning whom I had no particular
ground of objection, it pleased the Lord so to deal
with them under the forenoon's discourse, that the
most, with whom several of undoubted piety were dis-
satisfied, being conscious of their own unworthiness.
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 53
went away; so that the greater part of those that
staid were, I hope, truly gracious : this, O this was
the Lord's doing ! Alas, the state of things is such,
that we have not authority to suspend or banish per-
sons visibly unworthy ; but God himself hath under-
taken the v/ork. He it was that gave us a comfort-
able enjoyment of this ordinance, afforded his gracious
presence, and conveyed to us divine influences on the
occasion. ' This is our God ; we have waited for him,
and he will save us : this is the Lord ; we have waited
for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.'
We may say, with Abraham : ' In the mount of the
Lord it shall be seen.' He loves to own despised
worms, and to help where none else will or can. 'We
are like them that dream. The Lord hath done great
things for us, whereof we are glad.'"
The joy and ])eace that attended the first celebration
of the death of Christ at Coley, after so many years of
neglect, were of short duration. When a good work
is begun, Satan is sure to provoke opposition either by
pretended friends or avowed enemies ; if the ruins of
Jerusalem are to be repaired, Sanballats and Tobiahs
will make their aj)pearance or exert their secret influ-
ence. Some persons were highly offended because the
door of admission to church-fellowship was not thrown
open so widely as to admit persons indiscriminately,
while some, on the other hand, were dissatisfied think-
ing the terms of communion were not sufficiently strict:
from those who embraced these opposite sentiments
Mr. Heywood experienced much opposition ; and from
this period we may date the commencement of his severe
trials. It was a great trouble to him that some who
were most violent in their opposition, were those to
whom he had hoped his ministry had been useful. It
is lamentable to find how far this opposition was carried,
54 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOUl).
particularly by those who were anxious that the rules
of church-discipline should b-j of the strictest kind.
*' Such was their behaviour towards me," he says,
" that their own party elsewhere disclaimed them. I
voted some of them })lameworthy at a church meeting",
and the country did so ring* with it, that the reproach
will never be wiped ofi'. True it is, there was such
provoking occasion, all circumstances considered, that I
could very ill brook or bear it, and I found great need
of special grace, and had an opportunity to practise
some of the hardest lessons in Christianity ; to bear in-
juries without desire of revenge, to suffer grievous in-
ilignities without animosity, to pray for such as de-
spitefully used me, to love my enemies, and to overcome
evil with good. I never knew what these lessons
meant till now." At this time he experienced what
he justly denominates, " direct oj)position," in which
he says, " If God be with me, why doth all this evil
come upon me ? If God be for me, why are men against
me ? Hath not God said, that if a man's ways please
the Lord, he maketli even his enemies to be at peace
with him ? Surely something must be amiss, else God
would not thus have permitted the devil and his agents
to come in upon us. Have we not miscarried in the
business ; in matter, manner, or end ? Is not this a
punishment ? Certainly there is cause for deep humili-
ation on our part ; though the work was God's, the
defects were ours ; what is good was from heaven, anc'
what was evil from ourselves. O my soul, never tih
now didst thou feel the vigorous opposition of the
prince of darkness, especially in such open hostility
opposing the power of godliness. He has been ac-
customed to come under a visor, but now he comes in
his own colours, and with mighty force strikes at the
heart of religion. With what rage do men cast
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 55
nuisance on the ways of God and nickname the pro-
fessors of holiness? What plottings are there to thrust
me from this place ? what withdrawings of mainte-
nance ? what heart-burnings, surmises, and divisions
among the people of God? what bitter and biting words,
neglect of duty, and improper conduct among the strict-
est professors ? whither will all this lead ? will God
take away the candlestick, and give men, in judgment,
what they desire ? I do not know what he will do
with the congregation, but I fear he hath a bitter
scourge for it. A desire and endeavour to set up the
discipline of Christ hath exasperated many ; they hate
to be reformed. Now my troubles are coming thick
upon me. God hath long spared me that I might be-
come furnished for assaults and fiery trials. He hath
indulged me for seven years together with the love
and favour of the people, and encouragement on all
hands ; but summer will not always last, and now
wintry storms and blasts are come. O why should the
hopeful blossoms be nipped, and never come to per-
fection? Some persons pretending to be builders
weaken our hands, and others openly deride. Think
upon them, O my God, and turn their hearts unto thee,
or restrain their malice. How are we the reproach of
all, and the drunkard's song ! Remember me in all
my personal afflictions, and think of thy people, who
enlist themselves under thy banner : for thy sake we
have borne reproach. It is a great mercy that men
have not power to put us to death, for God is above
them, and will make them and their actions as his
footstool to advance his glory. In the meantime, O
my soul, wait thou on God and keep his ways. Be
engaged in thy work, and commit the issue of all to
him in prayer, who will keep thee in all thy ways ;
there are more with us than with those that are
against us."
56 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
Mr. Heywood's troubles became complicated in their
nature, and increased by a variety of circumstances.
The nation had long been in an unsettled state, and
though he was too prudent, as a minister of the gos-
pel, to distinguish himself by political zeal, he could
not but have his sentiments and wishes as a member of
the commonwealth. As a Christian and friend to his
country, he was attached to that form of government,
which in his opinion appeared most adapted to pro-
mote the real welfare of the nation. He was no friend
to the arbitrary measures of Cromwell, and the anarchy
that was too prevalent during the interregnum. AVhen
taking a view of what he considered, " Public Woes,"
lie thus expresses himself, particularly in reference to
the state of religion, and the horrors of internal con-
tests. " Shouldst thou, O my soul, contain thyself
within the bounds of thine own heart, and not inter-
meddle vv^ith more public affairs that concern the church
and state ? The sudden rumour of some strange cir-
cumstances, which respect the church's decay, hath
much affected the hearts of many precious saints.
When Eli heard the doleful tidings of the ark of God,
he fell backwards and died. No wonder that sympa-
thizing saints should be afilicted on account of the sins
and sorrows of the church, seeing we have peace, li-
berty, and sweet enjoyiiients under her maternal v.-ings.
When she hath trouble, why should not we lament over
Jerusalem's ruins, and have compassion on the scattered
stones of this city of our God ? How can we expect to
have a share in the church's enlargements v.'ho par-
take not of her sorrows ? Come then, my soul, and
view this guilty nation. Thou needest not make long
journeys to behold our njiseries, thine eyes will soon
affect thy heart, and objects sad enough will be pre-
sented to thee. When thou attentively surveyest
England, doth not a Golgotha appear ? We were not
HIS MINISTRY AT COI.EV. 57
long ago a Canaan, a land flowing with milk and iioney,
but our scarlet sins have changed the prospect, for it
floweth with blood, and swelleth with cruelty, and is
turned into an Aceldama. The blood of many a war-
like hero, and worthy saint has flowed in abundant
streams on the earth, and stained our country. Alas,
we have become a mere skeleton, and do daily walk
among tombs and monuments. Our faces are pale,
and our hearts tremble also for the ark of God. But
is not the Lord still the God of the nation ? And if he
be with us and for us, who can be against us ? What
need have we to complain ? Alas, this is the greatest
grief of all, that God is leaving England ! this, this is
the quintessence of our calamity. Alas, how can our
land fare well when God has departed ? Well, and if
poor England's best days be past, we alone may thank
ourselves : we must condemn ourselves, and justify
God. Our people have been surfeited with the gcsf>el.
They cry out, away with formalities ; the manna is
light food, it creates loathing. We need not wonder
then, if God should take av/ay what has become offen-
sive to the nation. Will his Spirit always strive ? It
is true, indeed, many hopeful Timothys have lately
been sent to work in the Lord's vineyard ; but are they
therefore obliged to remain in England ? Perhaps it
is God's design to make an engaging, attractive appear-
ance at parting, to let us see what he can and would
do if we would obey. God knows I do not desire these
things to come to pass ; I love my dear mother, the
church of England, would hope the best, and pray for
better things than I can well hope. I shall not be
sorry if my fears are groundless, but shall much re-
joice in God's free mercy and undeserved love ; I shall
then cry out with admiration, that God's mercy is above
all his works. O that he would display the riches of
58 LIFE or THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
his grace, and not destroy this sinful nation ! Should
not the sins of this poor island, (the cause of all its
miseries) much affect thee, my soul ? Wilt thou not
imitate the pious practice of renowned patriots of
former days, M^ho lamented for those that did not la-
ment for themselves ? Canst thou look abroad and
not behold iniquity ? canst thou see it and not lament
it ? The whole head of authority is sick, and the
v/hole heart of the nation is faint. The Lord has been
pleased to lay aside some excellent spirits as useless for
a season, and, because of our provoking sins, hath put
into their place sensual, self-seeking, and intruding
persons, who like drones, eat up the best of the land.
These are opposers of reformation, and contrivers of
ruin, by means of oppressions, taxes, and vexatious
proceedings, together with a shocking toleration of
blasphemies, and abused religion, under the harmless
pretext of liberty for tender consciences, the conse-
quences of which we have already experienced, and
shall continue to feel. O what a blow hath true re-
ligion sustained, under pretence of harmless opinions
about mere circumstantial points, whereas they raze
the foundation. We were weary of monarchy, but
shall be more weary of anarchy. Is there no one to
sit at the helm of the ship of our poor commonwealth,
but an army of rude, unruly, and contentious soldiers?
Alas, this is a sad case ! Yet it is so, or worse; for men
overawed by them, must rule and govern us. The
sword alone must now dispose of all moral, civil, and
ecclesiastical affairs. Ah poor ship, must thou be
driven away without a pilot ? Then farewell safety.
Whither will not the furious blasts of men's interests
transport thee ? On what rocks of infamy and misery
will they not dash thee? Alas, poor ship, whither
thou must go God only knows ! The sword of the
HIS MINISTRY AT COI.KV. 50
Civil magistrate is sheathed, and the word of the spiri-
tual minister is slighted. The sword of justice is
drawn to support injustice, and the power of authority
encourages such as do evil, and discourages those that
do well. Were not ministers once the chariots and
horsemen, the strength and beauty of our English
Israel ? but are they not now the scorn, and ofFscour-
ing of the world ? The clergy of England a few years
ago were the glory of the earth ; but now such as can
speak have a bolt to throw at them ! Stand and won-
der, O my soul, at this woful, frightful, and prodigious
change from one extreme to another. They that lately
were slavish in their fear and obedience, so that they
scarcely durst speak or act without their priest's di-
rections, now contemn the Lord's directions and his
ministers ! Those silly ignorant persons, that admired
learning, and almost worshipped scholars, now trample
all under their feet, and would have universities de-
melished, literature banished, and darkness introduced !
Do we not see illiterate, havighty, and presumptuous
soldiers and artificers perched up in congregations,
and without controul oppose sound doctrine, sow tares,
and teach the people to despise and malign their pious,
prudent, faithful, peaceable, and learnedly religious
pastors ? All this they do with such scurrilous lan-
guage, as if the devil were at their tongue's end, doing
his best to speak the worst of those he cannot destroy.
Are not the people apt enough to hate their ministers,
but they must be taught to cast reproach upon them ?
Is this the reward the ungrateful world affords us ? It
is our happiness then, that God is the portion of the
tribe of Levi. We are not men's servants, and they
are not to give us our reward, this is our comfort, and
blessed be God for this hope ; his providences, promises,
interest in him, and communion with him, are what
60 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
we cannot be deprived of by men. We deserve, it is
true, more than we yet have suffered on account of
pride, negligence, and covetousness ; and it is a mercy
God hath not cast us out as salt which has lost its sa-
vour. Let us then bless the Lord that things are not
much worse, even as our sins have justly deserved."
In August, I659j Sir George Booth, afterwards
Lord Delamere, attempted to excite a disposition in
the country in opposition to the powers then in autho-
rity, and in favour of Charles IL This was called the
Cheshire rising, because most of the gentry in that
county were engaged in the plot. Many were weary
of the confusion into which the nation had been
thrown, and secretly wished for the restoration of
monarchy, and the ancient family. The flame that
was kindled in Cheshire soon spread into the neigh-
boviring county of Lancashire, and the adjacent parts
of Yorkshire ; and, for a short time, threatened to em-
broil the country in another civil war ; but this little
army was met by Lambert's forces near Northwich,
and dispersed. Several of Mr. Heywood's relations in
Lancashire approved of the design, and his sentiments
in favour of the restoration being known, he was ac-
cused by some, who were offended at his conduct res-
pecting the establishment of discipline at Coley, as
being concerned in this rising. Whatever were his
private wishes, he by no means expressed his appro-
bation of the attempt, though some of the most scanda-
lous measures were adopted, to induce him to declare
his opinion, and thus involve him in civil troubles.
The shameful manner in which some of his people acted
in this affair, he thus describes : " They came to dis-
course with me, pretendedly in love and friendship, got
what they could from me on state affairs, and then,
when they saw their opportunity, threatened they had.
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 61
in writing, a charge against me uttered unav/afes by
my own lips ; and their own jealousy helped them to
invent other things, wherein they imagined I was
guilty, though far otherwise. I may truly say, as in
the presence of God, ' they laid to my charge, things
which I knew not,' and which had not entered into my
thoughts. They wrested my words, and when I de-
sired liberty to be my own interpreter, if it were con-
trary to their groundless surmisings, they charged me
with falsehood, and condemned me without trial.
When a considerable number of my friends came to
support me at a meeting, they would scarcely give
them leave to speak on my behalf. Some openly con-
tradicted me, by sending a note to me in the middle of
my sermon to distract me, though, blessed be God, it
prevailed not to do me much harm. They trampled
on me scornfully, as scarcely worthy to live, some of
them saying, ' they could not tell how to trust me with
their bodies, much less with their souls ; they would
not sit down under any man's ministry that would not
obey authority ;' though they themselves were the
most disobedient, changing the magistracy at their
pleasure many times in a year, if they did not suit
their ambitious and covetous humours ; yet they could
never charge me with disturbing the peace in word or
action. This I must confess, that I could not say,
amen, to their very irregular actions, nor act against
my conscience; for I m.ust obey God rather than men:
I durst not dissemble with God, I mean, in giving
him thanks for what I was convinced was real matter
of humiliation."*
* When Lambert's forces had dispersed the Cheshire army, the
Parliament ordered public thanks to be offered in places of wor-
ship for the success of their troops ; this was the circumstance to
which Mr. H. refers^
62 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
In the midst of these outward difficulties, his third
son, Nathaniel Heywood, was born, and by an inter-
cepted letter directed to some of his friends in Lanca-
shire, to inform them of this domestic occurrence, he
became involved in further troubles. These mixed
providences he thus records : " Review, O my soul,
a strange medley of multifarious providences about
thee and thine. My dear friends and others, in my
native county, upon serious thoughts and weighty
grounds, did take up arms against the present powers,
about August 1, 1659, among whom myself was ge-
nerally included, though falsely. My dear wife, after
a difficult time, was delivered of another son, Aug. 7.
I desired to give an account of this to my friends in
Lancashire, and sent to them the day after. The
scouting soldiers intercepted the message, sent back
the messenger, and took the letter. August 9, a band
of soldiers came and took me prisoner, and led me
away from my afflicted wife and troubled family.
They kept me one night with the resolution of send-
ing me to York, but God prevented, and raised up
some to be my friends, from whom little could be ex-
pected, who obtained my release. I was sent home
without any perplexing engagements being laid upon
me, so that I observed the fast on the Friday, and ce-
lebrated the Lord's supper yesterday. O that I could
learn the mind of God in all these dispensations !
Surely I may sing of mercy and judgment ; floods of
love, and only drops of displeasure. How mysterious
is God in his proceedings ! O that I had wisdom
iTom above to spell out his meaning ! He hath a spe-
cial design in all these national commotions : he only
knows what party will prevail ; yet a new war would
prove fatal in its progress and end. Things have been
carried on strangely in the nation, and woe be unto us
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 6^
if God enter into judgment with us ! The saddest
thing is, that professing people are engaged on both
sides, yea, many precious saints seem about to draw
their swords against one another, while wicked men
stand by and say, ' so would we have it.' O that God
would make this turn off to his glory and his people's
satisfaction ! The failure of the message to give notice
of my wife's deliverance, and to desire my dear father
Angler's coming over to baptize the child, was a pain-
ful thing : but God had a special hand therein, and
showed me much mercy. My friends and foes sym-
pathized with me, and contributed their best assistance
for my help. The chief trouble w^as the state of my
dear, afflicted, and discouraged wife ; but when her
flesh and heart began to fail, God was the strength of
her heart, and satisfying portion. The soldiers led me
some miles backward and forward in the dark of the
night, and endeavoured to frighten me with threaten-
ing words ; but God stood by me, and gave me cou-
rage under unexpected trials, and sent me home the
morning after : this was the Lord's doing ! No man
knows what a day may bring forth : what fears and
hopes, what crosses and comforts, what dangers and
deliverances he may quickly experience. God no
where promiseth to keep his people out of all trouble,
but to keep them from any deadly harm thereby ; they
may pass through the waters, but they shall not over-
flow them ; they may walk through the fire, but they
shall not be burned : God hath engaged to be with
them in both. O my soul, let not these things slip
out of thy mind ; but whilst thou hast a day to live>
continue praising God for this deliverance."
God, who had hithertho been enlarging Mr. Hey-
wood's family, now saw it good to visit him with a new
dispensation. He had begun to feel some of the plea^
64 LIFE OF THE KKV. O. HEVWOOD.
sures, cares, and anxieties of a tender father, when
beholding his children around him enjoying life ; but
now he was made acquainted with the feelings of a
pious parent, when witnessing the corpse of his child.
His youngest son did not live quite three weeks. This
event beinc: almost simultaneous Vv^th the Cheshire
rising, he thus takes notice of them : " August 20,
tidings came that the Lancashire army was utterly
routed, 3000 slain, many hundreds taken prisoners,
and the design entirely frustrated : though afterwards
we found it was not so desperate as was at first repre-
sented. My little infant was taken very ill on Monday
night, and groaned out its distress till Wednesday^
August 24, when it pleased God to take it. In all
these things God shows himself a sovereign. O what
a heart-affecting thing was the late national confusion !
It was a sudden, and perhaps an unadvised under-
taking. True it is, we had sore and heavy grievances,
and the land hath long groaned under a woful oppres-
sion and strange disappointments in church and state.
But would it not have been better to try some other
way than involve the nation in a new war? Doth
not God rather call us to suffer persecution, than rise
up against those persons that have plenary posses-
sion ? May not God have wise ends in setting over
us powers of usurpation ? When his time is coine,
cannot he easily open a way for the accomplishment
of his own purposes, without our using irregular
means? It is a serious thing to involve a whole
nation in broils and bloodshed ; and a sad thing in-
deed for any of God's people to engage in such a con-
tention ! It made my very soul bleed, to think of
pious men meeting each other in a hostile manner.
Woe is me ! that I have lived to see this day, when
ecclesiastical divisions have produced civil opposition.
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 6.5
when Ephraim envies Judah, and Judah vexes Eph-
raim. How sad is it that those who are reconciled by
the blood of Christ, should thirst after one another's
blood ! How unlike is this to the spirit and grace of
the saints of God ! Had it been a joint consent of all
the household of faith against the kingdom of Satan,
what cause of joy would it have been, and what
grounds of hope should we have had ! But, alas, I
have lived to see every man's sword against his bro-
ther. O how angry is our God at this ! and though
he has brought them off with as little bloodshed as
could be imagined, yet how may we fear it will heighten
discord among dissenting brethren, fill them with
jealousy against one another, and hinder hopes of an
accommodation ! In what desperate troubles is my na-
tive country involved, and also my dear relatives !
How will the exasperated commonalty rage against
the leaders in this affair ! But there is hope in Israel
concerning this thing, and all our help is from above.
I desire also to make some improvement of the other
sad afflicting providence relating to my child. Surely
there is something amiss in us, or God would not have
dealt so with us. O that his design may be thoroughly
accomplished in us and upon us! It is good for us
neither to slight it as an inconsiderable providence, nor
be too much dejected by it, but to observe God's hand.
David was affected with his illegitimate infant's death,
though afterwards he encouraged himself; but the
gospel covenant may revive our spirits in hope both
for ourselves and seed. Were it not for a firm per-
suasion our souls have of covenant mercy, how sadly
might we bewail the state of dying infants ! but the
promise belongs to us and our children. Though God
hath taken one child, he hath left the other two, and
will, I hope, make them of some service to glorify him
VOL. I. F
66' LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
in his church militant. O how gracious is the Lord !
sometimes he takes away those comforts we can best
spare, and afterwards proceeds to take away those in
which we conceive our life, and our all are bound up.
O that by our non-improvement of this, we may not
provoke him to touch us nearer the quick."
Mr. Hey wood's situation at this time was singularly
distressing. His domestic trial was severely felt, being
a man of strong natural feelings ; his attempts to pro-
mote church discipline were violently opposed by some
who ought to have been assistants in the work ; and
opposition was increased by vehement political pre-
judices. The unchristian and outrageous measures of
his opponents would exceed belief, were they not re-
corded in his own words. " At this time," he says,
" men triumphed over us with intolerable pride, threat-
ened sequestration, shot off a pistol under our window,
and had once almost driven me from my dear people.
Once, indeed, I had resolved to go within a day or two,
but being better advised, I thought it best to abide the
trial ; for I knew I was not guilty, no, not in the
breach of their own law. Little, ah ! little did I think,
that persons whom God hath made instruments of my
trouble would have proved so. A military gentleman
in the neighbourhood, to whom my heart was much
endeared as a christian friend, and who had expressed
the like affection for me, sent for me, and in private
discourse obtained a full discovery of my opinion about
state concerns, and, with some misinterpretations,
divulged the same among the soldiers and in a public
meeting at the chapel. Others were sent on purpose
to tempt me to speak, and catch me in my words,
whom I formerly judged as genuine friends. These
strictly marked me, and without my observation wrote
down what might be thought an accusation against
HIS MINISTIIY AT COLEY. 67
me. Some suspected me of having held correspondence
with those in Lancashire, and have been much afraid
for themselves, lest they should be unawares surprised
in their houses. Others have watched all night, and
kept an observant eye on my habitation, as if I were
their enemy and contrived mischief against them ;
whereas the searcher of hearts knows that such things
never entered my thoughts. Some have sent an un-
christian-like note to me in the pulpit, while I was
preaching, to distract me : and others have left the
place with a resolution never to hear me again, circu-
lated strange reports and lies concerning me, charged me
with untruths originating in their own mistakes, called
me and my way no better than popery, resolved and
threatened, with bitter and insulting scorn, to thrust me
from my dear congregation, took advantage from my
too hasty resolution to send for another minister, and
do still threaten to bring in another. Though some
pretend more love, others wish to prejudice me to the
utmost, to deprive me of my due rents, and resolve to
hinder what they can of the people's subscription for
my maintenance. These things seem sadly to make
against me, and are very distressing, all circumstances
being duly weighed; for some of those that oppose me
are, I hope, truly pious : some of them have been my
bosom friends, and if ever they have received good for
their souls, it has been by my ministry, (as they have'
acknowledged) and have more reason to respect me
than others, by the common law of gratitude. Some
young persons have attained to a mighty height of
pride and presumption, whose parents were my cordial
friends, and gave them serious charges to be faithful ta
me. Some M^ho have many times confessed their faults
against me, have returned and done me much mischief.
Sometimes I have been provoked to passion, and given
F 2
GB LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYAVOOD.
vent to the depravity of my heart, which has occasion*
ed me much trouble. I have been charged with what
my soul is most averse to, division and contention :
this goes very near my heart. Whatever is or may be
the issue, God is my witness how much my soul hath
breathed after love and unity amongst Christians, ho\V
(too immoderately I fear) I have followed peace with all
men, especially in endeavouring to produce concord be-
tween differing bi'ethren. But, alas! what a sad thing
that it has been unavailable, yea, that I should be
charged as a fire-brand. I desire to take up my cross,
it may be a direct punishment for my excessive desire for
peace. God is just, but I am vile ; I humbly kiss the
rod, and accept the punishment of my sin. My com-
fort is, the testimony of my conscience, that in simpli-
city and godly sincerity I have had my conversation,
in doctrine and practice, many years : and I can, by
the grace of God, appeal to my adversaries. The
charge is, I am a troubler in Israel and an enemy to
Caesar, though I have kept myself quiet and peaceable
in my place and never advised an insurrection, when
dissatisfied with the army's late innovations. I have
been silent unto man, unless provoked to declare my
apprehensions ; for I have rather desired to open my
complaints to God, who is able to redress these things
in his due time. Surely God would teach me by these
events, not to trust in man, nor to put confidence in a
brother; and would shew me the instability of my surest
comforts, and how bitter all my sweets m.ay prove. O
that I could open my bosom more to God, my sure and
faithful friend in heaven, make more haste to get out
of this world, and long more to be at rest. Then I shall
never fear soldiers coming with weapons to apprehend
me, courts of justice to try me, witnesses to swear against
me, nor the executioner to take away my life."
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 69
About the commencement of Mr. Heywood's troubles
at Coley, Sir Richard Houghton of Houghton Tower,
together with the invitation of the people, sent him a
presentation to the vicarage of Preston, worth at that
time about £100. per annum. His resolution to re-
jnain in the place where he had commenced his pasto-
ral labours, and rejection of the flattering proposal,
were not adopted but upon the most mature delibera-
tion, serious prayer, and firm belief of the will of hea-
ven, and give decisive evidence of the purity of his
motives, and the integrity of his conduct. The impar-
tial manner in which he endeavoured to ascertain the
path of duty, and his willingness to walk in it, will appear
from the following meditations on this occasion : " Re-
flect a little, O my soul," he says, " on a present provi-
dence which puts thee to a stand, and beware of ad-
venturing upon any thing without direction from
above. Thou hast an invitation to remove to ano-
ther people : look about thee, and inquire what is
thy course. There are many cogent reasons both
ways, and thy case is somewhat intricate. As things
are represented to thee, the other is the more desirable
place in many respects. They are a rich, numerous,
and intelligent congregation ; there is a pleasant situa-
tion, comfortable accommodation, abundant mainte-
nance assured thee during life, discipline comfortably
established, and the Lord's supper duly administered;
the place also is near some of thy dear relations in the
ministry, and many faithful ministers, whose praise is
in all the churches, and whose society may be helpful
to thee. Besides, thou hast a clear call on all hands,
the unanimous invitation of the serious people without
opposition from the rest, the full and free donation of
it by the worthy patron, and encouragement by some
neighbouring ministers. On the other hand, there are
70 LIFE OF THE IlEV. O. HEYWOOD.
some discouragements amongst thine own people, in-
clining thee to a removal ; such as the present obstruc-
tion to enjoying the ordinance of the Lord's supper,
shortness of a comfortable maintenance, want of a con-
venient habitation, and perverseness of some of the
people, especially among themselves. These things do
a little puzzle and trouble me at present, yet have not
much prevailed to unsettle me, or remove my heart
from my poor, dear, and affectionate people. Who
knows but that God has sent this as a temptation to
try how I love my congregation, and how I am affects
ed towards preferment? Blessed be my God, I have
some counter- working arguments to persuade me to
continue. 1. This people have had the first-fruits of
my ministerial labours. Though I was a child and
not fit to stand up in a pulpit, yet they made choice
of me to be their minister, which is to me a wonder
and doth endear me to them. 2. Their choice hath
been confirmed and their love increased. It is nothing
for strangers to delight hearers, but to keep up lively
expressions of affection for nearly seven years together,
is something more than ordinary in these unstable
days. 3. The considerable success of my poor labours
in this place. Though I be nothing, the least of saints,
and not worthy to be called a minister, yet I cannot
say I have laboured in vain, for God hath given me
divers seals to my ministry, which is not only the work
of free grace, but some inducement to proceed in God's
work among this people. 4. The door of hope is open
here for the promotion of the gospel and settlement of
religion, arising from the hopefulness of young persons
looking heaven-Avards, the external reformation of
many, the general willingness of most to attend at
wisdom's gates, the great interest God hath given me
in men's hearts, excepting the prejudices of a few
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 71
only. 5. Their many favours to me, both in my single
and married condition, have much affected my heart.
If I should now cast these behind my back, and be
ready to forget the bestowers, I might be justly charg-
ed with ingratitude, which I would ever abominate.
6. The serious advice of my dearest friends for my
continuance, together with the reasons of their advice,
whose counsel I highly value. Besides, there are the
importunities of my people, the complacency my dear
partner hath had here, and our concurrent inclination
for continuance. 7. The heart-breaking trouble I
know there would be on all sides at parting, and the
sad effects I foresee would attend my removal, some-
thing of which I have seen in a neighbouring congrega-
tion, with divisions, heart-burnings, contentions, and
the probable want of the means of grace. There is
danger of the people having to wander to other places,
or that some profane or erroneous person may be
thrust upon them, the thoughts of which would embit-
ter my comforts elsewhere, from concern for their
souls. These, and such like arguments have prevailed
with me for further continuance, and if it be the will
of God, I desire I may continue here to my dying day.
I Avish to spend my days where God hath done me so
much good ; for he hath avigmented my poor talents,
and hath not diminished but increased my worldly
estate, so that, as my reverend father Angier saith to
me, ' It is ill transplanting a tree that thrives well in
the soil.' Listen not, O my soul, to the pleadings of
flesh and blood. This base heart will say, I scorn to
live on alms, or be indebted to my people for wages ;
I must have things convenient for my station, and
keep such equipage as other ministers : and will £40.
a-year maintain a family, support hospitality, and pro-
vide for children ? Pride will prompt thee to think
72 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEY WOOD.
Avell of thyself, to esteem thyself worthy of a better
situation, and that this obscure, vulgar auditory is too
low a sphere for thy abilities. Covetousness and ambi-
tion will call thee higher, bid thee shew thyself to the
world, get what means thou canst, and carry more sail
in better company. But, O my soul, learn to distin-
guish wisely betwixt grace and natui'e, temptations to
sin and occasions of good, sacred impulses for the glory
of God and sinful motives for thy own interests :
learn the great gospel lessons of humility and self-
denial. Do what good thou canst out of the view of
others, yet resist not opportunities of doing greater
good, nor be ashamed of Christ in the world. Work
hard for God, and beware of ostentation : above all,
beware of covetous and aspiring thoughts, and affect
not, with Diotrephes, to have the preeminence. Dost
thou not remember that love of the world is enmity to
God, and is the root of all evil ? Consider how many
have fallen by prosperity, that stood firm in adversity:
and hast thou more grace and strength than they?
Hast thou not a weak head and a weaker heart ?
Canst thou sail dexterously by the rock on which
others have split, who have turned aside after filthy
lucre, embraced this present world, and pierced them..
selves through with many sorrows ? Where is thy
faith ? Is not God's providence the best inheritance ?
Did not God work a miracle for Elijah ? and is bis
hand shortened that he cannot save ? When Christ
sent his disciples without scrip or purse, lacked they
any thing ? Is not God all in all, and able to make a
little go as far as much ? What occasion hast thou to
question his providence ? did he ever fail thee ? Doth
he not ordinarily so dispose things, that they that have
little have no want, and they that have much have no^
thing to spare ? Have not some of thy near relations
HIS MINISTllY AT COLEV. 7^
experienced this truth ? Ah ! my unbelieving heart,
take heed how thou dost distrust God. Take some of
the arguments whereby thou wouldst silence the unbe-
lief of thy people, and bring them hom.e to thyself.
Blessed be God, the temptation to covetousness hath
prevailed little with me, but there is reason for caution.
The sense of fancied enjoyment provokes greater de-
sires after profit, and an increased income enlarges, ra-
ther than satisfies the appetite : this is the vanity and
vexation of things below. If thou hast food and rai-
ment for thyself and thine, be content, and say with
Jacob, ' It is enough.' My resolution and desire are to
live neither above nor below my place ; so to pass
through the world, that I may not dishonour my God,
discredit his gospel, nor bring a reproach on the minis-
try, either by careless prodigality or haggard poverty.
If my want may advantage the common cause of Chris-
tianity, I care not if I beg my bread from door to door,
so that I may effectually bring more souls to Jesus
Christ ; though blessed be God there is no need, and
I hope never will be, in this land : but if there were,
I hope God will rather help me to suffer all things
than cease from my work, ' for woe is to me if I preach
not the gospel.' Since I have concluded to remain
where I am, — may I be more useful, and be assisted in
my work, that the secret of God may be on my taber-
nacle : if I conscientiously take care of my duty, God
will take care of my comfort. Let others go from
their people on slight occasions, I consider it a matter
of consequence, and shall, I hope, make it a matter of
conscience. I dare not resist a call from God, yet I
would diligently inquire his mind. I stand m hivio,
with two ways before me, and that way which God
shall direct, and in which I can do most good, I wish to
choose, though it be against my worldly interest.
74) LIFE OF THE KEV. O. IIEYWOOD.
Here I resolve still to continue, by the good hand of
God upon me, ; this is the flock over which God liath
made me overseer. May he help me to watch over
them till Christ be formed in them ! May I long after
their real good in Christ, and see religion prosper !
May it be said, ' This and that man were born here,*
and may Christ see of the travail of his soul and be
satisfied !"
The changes in the government of this land, from
the death of Charles in 1649 to the beginning of 1660,
had been numerous. Many evils had been experienced
by the arbitrary measures of Cromwell and the lawless
proceedings of the army, which made numbers anxious
for the return of the exiled family : among these, Mr.
Hey wood must be enumerated. The restoration of
Charles II. to the British throne he welcomed as an
auspicious event, though he " rejoiced with trembling."
When reflecting on this sudden change, he thus ex-
presses himself: " Lift up thine eyes, my soul, and
behold the face of things abroad. After a dark and
gloomy winter comes a heart-reviving spring. What
a change has been effected in half a year ! Surely
there is a gracious, moving wheel of providence in all
these vicissitudes. Usurpers have had the seat of
jurisdiction, have held the reins in their hands, and
driven on furiously these twelve years. They com-
manded a toleration of all but truly tender consciences,
cast off parliaments of their own appointing at their
pleasure, and threatened sequestration, for all who
would not fall down and worship the golden image of
their invention. They turned out our nobles, made
our illustrious kingdom a confused commonwealth, an
imaginary free state, while they deprived the peoj)le of
their native privilege of electing their own members to
sit in parliament. But when they had doubled Atha-
HIS MINISTRY AT COI.EY. 75
iiali's time of usurpation, down they came from the
highest dignity to the lowest ignominy. Strange
events happened between September 1659, and May
1660. God is in the heavens, and doeth whatsoever
pleaseth him : he hath glorified his great name, vindi-
cated his truth and promises, and encouraged his peo-
ple. He hath restored our civil rights, and given us
hope of a just settlement. I must however confess,
we are in a precarious state, being afraid lest the su-
preme governor should prove wicked, frown on the
faithful of the land, obstruct the work of reformation,
set up again the abrogated ceremonies, subject us to
tyranny under an insulting hierarchy, corrupt God's
pure worship, and turn gospel discipline into courts of
formality. I'hese things are feared from the flattering
sycophants, who will flock about the newly created
king. But shall our surmisings hinder our rejoicing ?
Who knows but the twelve years' banishment has pre-
pared the king to be an understanding David ? Let
us wait on God, keep his ways, and trust him with
events." The fears entertained by Mr. Heywood were
but too soon realized. On the return of Charles, those
who had been so violent in their opposition to Mr. H.
became silent, and, for a short time, he peaceably and
successfully exercised his ministry. This season of
comfort was but of short duration ; for in less than
two years from the king's restoration, Mr. H. began to
experience those trials for nonconformity, the parti-
culars of which will be related in the subsequent his-
tory of his life. His sufferings for conscience' sake
were preceded by a trial of a domestic nature, the
most distressing to his feeling-s.
Mrs. Elizabeth Heywood was not only the wife of
his youth, but the object of his pure choice and sin-
cere affection. During the six years they had spent
76 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
ill the matrimonial state, God gave them three sons,
the youngest of whom was soon called to heaven ; he
helped them mutually to share each other's joys and
sorrows, and maintained, if not increased, that love
which brought them together. Mrs. Heywood's con-
stitution, which was naturally weak, had been im-
paired by repeated bodily afflictions, especially since
her marriage. Her kind father, perceiving the decayed
state of her health, and hoping that her native air
might be of some benefit, sent for her to Denton.
April 18, 1661, Mr. H. his wife, and two children,
took a journey into Lancashire. Soon after their ar-
rival at Denton, Mrs. H. appeared to revive, and
hopes were entertained of her recovery ; but her dis-
order was incurable: she soon relapsed, and her rapid
decline terminated in death, on the 26th of May. Mr.
Heywood thus describes his feelings, and gives a por-
trait of her character : " What a sad breach hath the
Lord made in my bosom comforts ! O my soul, he
hath taken away thy dear partner ; the heaviest blow
that ever I experienced in my outward enjoyments.
I may say with Naomi, * the Lord hath dealt very bit-
terly with me. I went out full, and the Lord hath
brought me home again empty.' We went with the
whole of our family to visit our native country, and
in less than two months, lost not only a member, but
a main pillar thereof — the wife of my youth, a plant
of grace, strong in faith, though weak in body. Her
old nature was long decaying, but her spiritual strength
rapidly increased. The Lord had been long adorning
her soul with heavenly graces, that she might be as a
bride made ready for the marriage of the Lamb. I
have no cause to lament her condition, but my own ;
the loss is mine, the gain hers ; and both unspeakable.
She is now put into the enjoyment of that which is
HIS MINISTllY AT COLEY. 77
riot attainable here ; she is with Christ, which is best
of all. Her many doubts and fears are lost in the
beatific vision. Her sad complaints are changed for
the triumphant song of Moses and the Lamb ; her
prayers and tears, for joys and praises ; her sins and
sufferings, for perfect holiness and happiness ; her
much lamented duties and performances, for uninter-
rupted communion with the Lord. She is removed
from a tempestuous sea to a quiet haven, where the
weary are at rest, and the wicked cease from troubling.
She will never now have cause to complain of hard
usage from friends or foes, of slanderous reports and
falsehoods, of pains and sicknesses of body, of losses
and crosses in estate, of sad tidings in church affairs,
of mournful dissentions among brethren, and of the
sins and licentiousness of the times : these things are
to her as a tale that is told, and if there be any re-
membrance of them, it is without the least regret.
Alas, we poor mortals speak of heaven enigmatically !
But the veil of natural and sinful infirmity is with-
drawn from the blessed eyes of her immortal spirit.
I have not the least ground of fear relative to her ;
nay, while she was with me, I had always better hopes
of her state than my own : and though she expressed
not much to others, yet she was familiarly acquainted
with the Lord in secret duties, and with her own
heart, by observing its movements in self-examination.
Her soul knew, in some degree, the way and fruit of
ascending to heaven, and now she is gone to take pos-
session. But here I am, a poor, bewildered creature,
left behind to conflict with a world of sinful allure-
ments, and anxious cares and fears, with legions of
infernal spirits, and numerous troops of inward foes.
Woe is me, that I dwell in Meshech ! When shall I
go and appear before God? Had I made the same
78 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEVWOOD.
haste in holiness, I had also made her haste to happi-
ness ; had my soul conversed as much with God as
hers, I might have enjoyed the immediate presence of
God as soon as she : Enoch was too good for earth,
therefore God took him. Had I been as ready for
heaven, I must not have stayed behind ; but the will
of the Lord be done! As I am satisfied her time was
come, so I desire to wait my appointed time : I am
not unwilling to live, nor afraid to die. O what is it
that caused the Lord to make such a breach in my
comforts? Surely he hath written bitter things against
me, and made me to possess the sins of my youth. To
lose a wife, and such a wife, is no small lovss f How
dear was 1 to her ! and what reason have I that she
should be as dear to me ? O the prayers and tears
she constantly poured forth with and for both me and
mine ! O what excellent counsel the Lord hath enabled
her to give me ! O what usefulness and faithfulness in
the things of this life ! yea, what abundant advantage
I many times received from her in my public work and
calling, both as a Christian and a minister ! Methinks
the house is lonely without her, and all my other com-
forts present to me but a mournful scene. But why
do I deplore my state ? My work is to mind the
Lord's design. As she is made a partaker of happi-
ness, may I be made a partaker of holiness ! as she is
an infinite gainer, may I be no loser ! Should I reap
no benefit from this sad aflfliction, I shall have more
cause to lament than for the loss of her : I may expect
some further blow if I do not profit by this. May the
loss of so genuine a Christian, cause the existence
or increase of some grace within me ! May her
prayers, counsels, covenants, and example appear in
her offspring in after generations, that it may be saidj
this is the seed of the blessed of the Lord."
HIS MINISTRY AT COLEY. 79
This event being one in which Mr. Heywood was so
deeply interested, it is no wonder he repeatedly notices
it in his private papers ; and every record proves, not
only the strength of his affection for his beloved partner,
but the earnestness of his desire that it might be sanc-
tified to his spiritual advantage. He says, " It was
the heaviest personal stroke that ever I experienced ;
yet the Lord hath abundantly satisfied my heart, and
supported my spirit under it, partly by the considera-
tion of her happy condition, and partly by my serious
apprehension of approaching calamities. True it is,
there are many things that tend to aggravate, as well
as on the other hand to moderate this affliction ; but
that which I would study is, what is God's design
therein, that I may derive some advantage from it, for
in all my loss the want of the fruit of affliction is the
greatest evil. She was as much a comfort to her fa-
ther as she was to her husband ; she grew up to a
wonderful maturity far beyond her years. I want her
at every turn, in every place, and in every affair ; me-
thinks I am but half myself without her. But why
should I complain ? she is at rest, God's will is done,
and I may shortly follow after. Sure I am she cannot
return, nor doth she desire it ; so then I ought not.
But if the affliction is deeper, and more painful than
any thing I ever experienced ; the supporting, quicken-
ing and comforting grace vouchsafed, is also beyond
any thing I ever before enjoyed. My God supplies all
my wants according to his riches in glory, by Christ
Jesus ; only I am afraid of losing this frame of sph'it
under the dispensation ; but my encouragement is the
same as Paul's, 'My grace is sufficient for thee.'"
In alleviation of his distress, God had granted him
a pious, faithful, and kind servant, Martha Bairstow,
who remained in his family about sixteen yeai's, and.
80 I.IFE OF THE llEV. (). IIEYWOOD,
did not forsake him in the midst of his severe
trials. A few months after Mrs. Heywood's decease,
he observes, " I keep house with one maid and my
two little sons ; and I bless God we live happily to-
gether. I cannot be better furnished with a servant.
She is my child as well as servant, one of my first and
best converts to the faith, and that spiritual relation
hath much endeared her to me. She is sober, steady,
and of a tender conscience, full of scruples, and fearing
God above many ; she is laborious and faithful, one in
whom the children take great delight ; a great mercy
to me in my solitary condition."*
* Such a servant as IMartha proved herself to be to Mr. Hey-
wood, had a just claim to his affection, and we accordingly find he
took much interest in her welfare, as will appear from the folloAV-
ing extracts, which include much of her history. " My servant-
maid, Martha Bairstow, was sent abroad into service and hardship
when only ten years of age. She has lived with me fifteen years.
Her relations have disowned her ; and when her father made his
will, he left her much less than any of the others. He died, and
was buried Dec. 1, 16/3. Her relations were churlish; but have
this day, Dec. 10, divided the goods and money : her share is
^20. She feared there would be much wrangling, but matters
were peacefully carried on to-day, though formerly she has re-
turned home weeping. She is satisfied with her little portion, and I
own this as a return of prayer to compose spirits, though she is
put off with loss." About eighteen months after this, she left Mr.
H's service to become the wife of James Tetlow, a member of the
church at Northowram. On this occasion JMr. H. says, " This
hath been a solemn day on account of IMartha's removal, my old
servant, who hath lived with me about sixteen years, hath been
faithful and careful of me and mine, afflicted with me in all my
afflictions, and sharing with me in all conditions. She is now mar-
ried to J. Tetlow. I loved her as a child. She was full of heaviness
at parting. ]My heart Avas much affected in secret prayer ; but in
the family, our affections overcame us, when reading and comment-
ing on Gen. xxiv, respecting the proceedings of Abraham's faith-
ful servant, and Rebecca's departure from home. I prayed near an
hour, and God wonderfully wrought on us. Now, there is not one
in my family, but myself, that was in it when first erected."
PART III.
Ingratitude of Charles II. to the Nonconformists — DeclaratiGu
against private Meetings — Mr. Ileywood's Citation to York, and
Reflections — His Suspension — The Act of Uniformity — Non-
cofformists not guilty of Schism — Excomiminication of Mr. Hey-
, wood — Preaching at Coley Chapel prevented — Another Excom-
munication — Private Services — Frequent Alarms — Third Excom-
munication — Exclusion fro7n public Ordinances — Warrants issued
— Occasional Labours— Violent Opposition — The Conventicle Act
— Frequent Opportunities of Preaching — Activity of Mr. Hey-
wood's Enemies — A Gospel Minister at Coley Chapel — Mr.
Heywood's Endeavours to obtain Absolution — His Visit to Lan-
cashii'e — Journey into the South — Preservation from Dangers—
A providential Supply — The Plague of London.
Charles II. was chiefly indebted to the influence of
the Nonconformists for his restoration. Had they
united their energies in opposing his return, it is pro-
bable the family of the Stuarts would never have re-
ascended the British throne : but so far from opposing
him, many secretly desired, and others publicly pleaded
for his restoration. They had just reason to suppose
his return to authority would be attended with the
happiest effects. The nation had frequently been con-
vulsed by civil discord, and the promises he had
made when in exile, encouraged their brightest hopes.
If they had no solid reason to believe that church
government and modes of worship would be established
on principles opposed to episcopacy, they justly ex-
pected they would be permitted to retain their stations
in the Establishment, or, at least, be protected in the
peaceable worship of God according to their views of
VOL. I. G
82 LIFE or THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
scripture and the dictates of their consciences. The
declaration of Charles at Breda, dated April 4, 1660,
was sufficient to raise these expectations. In that
public document he had said : " We do declare a
liberty to tender consciences, and that no man shall be
called in question for differences of opinions, which da
not disturb the peace of the kingdom." Gratitude to
his best friends and faithfulness to his own promises,
required the protection of the Nonconformists in the
exercise of their natural and religious rights. Many
of them had ventured their lives in the royal cause,
and were the first to welcome his return. When he
passed through the city on his way to Westminster,
May 29, 1660, the Nonconformist ministers in London
and its neighbourhood attended him with acclamations,
and appointed one of the most venerable of their num-
ber to present him with a richly adorned bible, which
he promised " to make the rule and government of his
life." But scarcely had he entered on the regal office,
when, after a pretended attention to the requests of the
Nonconformists, he sanctioned the most violent proceed-
ings of the high church party, and gave his countenance
to the most shameful persecution of his best subjects.
The first step taken in the persecution of the Non-
conformists, during the reign of Charles, was a decla-
ration to prevent private meetings. Many of the
Nonconformists, conscious of the integrity of their
hearts, and the sincerity of their loyalty, could not
suppose the declaration originated in opposition to-
them, but from political motives. " This day, Jan. 23,
1661," says Mr. H. " we had designed to meet together
for fasting and prayer in private, but are prevented by
a declaration from authority. The truth is, our dread
sovereign, at the first and hitherto, hath allowed us
abundant liberty for religious exercise both in public
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 83
aiki private ; but his clemency has been abused, which
hath occasioned this severe and universal prohibition.*
The fanatical and schismatical party, truly so called,
have, by their unwise and unwarrantable practices,
troubled all the people of God throughout this nation,
and have rendered the sweet savour of christian con-
verse to be abhorred. The Lord judge between such
as fast for strife and debate, and such as fast with gra-
cious hearts and designs — between loyal subjects and
despisers of authority. But why do I lay the blame
oii others and not on ourselves ? The actions of men
and edicts of princes could not have abridged our
liberties, had not our sins procured these things. Just,
very just is what has come upon us, for we have been
unprofitable under our privileges : they have been so
ordinary, that our hearts are grown indifferent, and
less than ordinary preparations have served for extra-
ordinary duties. We met as if loth to meet; our
prayers were full of deadness, unbelief, and vanity :
it is therefore just, we should not be permitted to
meet for prayer. We too much aimed at applause for
our gifts, and God hath taken away the occasion of
venting the pride and hypocrisy of our hearts. We
did not improve the society of our christian friends,
and therefore we must not now enjoy it. I doubt not
we have been too much abroad and too little at home,
religious in company, but careless in our closets : now
we must learn to enter into our closet and shut the
door upon us. It is the property of a Christian toniake
a virtue of necessity, and wisely to improve this pre-
sent restraint of christian liberty, which our gracious
God will restore to us if he see it useful."
* Such was the favourable construction Mr. Heywood was dis-
posed to put on this proceedings but he had cause afterwards to
think otherwise.
G 2
84 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYAVOOl).
The prelates, being reinstated at the restoration orf
Charles, exerted their power to force the clergy to a
iiniformity in ceremonies. Some, more eager and
zealous than others, cited great numbers of ministers
to their ecclesiastical courts, and punished them for
disobedience before they were fully invested with legal
authority. In various parts of the land, Noncon-
formists were harassed by litigious suits in spiritual
courts, a full year before the Act of Uniformity passed.
August 25, 1661, the advocates for uniformity ob-
tained a person from another township, to tender a
common-prayer book to Mr. Heywood, when going
into the pulpit. He enquired by what authority he
presented it? to which the man made no reply, but
laid it on the cushion. Mr. H. removed it, and went
on with the service in the usual manner, and was much
assisted in the work of the day. September 13, a
bailiff of Halifax, who had lately been made an appa-
ritor, brought Mr. H. a citation to appear at St Peter's
in York, that day fortnight. His friends advised him
to attend in person or by proxy, lest he should be ex-
communicated for contempt. He went on the appoint-
ed day, and the court inquired if he had a proctor.
He replied, he w^as there in person to ansv/er any
charge. They ordered him to attend there that day
three weeks. He requested to be informed, what was
the charge laid against him. They replied, he should
be told the next time he came. Having occasion to go
into Lancashire on the appointed day, he neither ap-
peared nor employed a proctor. On his return home,
he found another citation to appear at York on the fol-
lowing Friday ; but the time being so short, and Lady
Watson having sent him word that the court as yet
had no authority, he did not think proper to attend.
After this, he was again cited to appear before them ;
HIS EJECTMENT 1-llOM COLEY. 85
and when he attended, he was again dismissed with
promise of a fair hearing the next time. Having been
put to so much trouble and expense, and believing the
court possessed no legal authority, he refused to attend
any more.
The pious frame of mind with which he entered on
that course of trials, which he experienced for noncon-
formity, and the principles by which he was influenced,
are thus described by him : " I have this day the unac-
customed news of a citation to appear before an
ecclesiastical court at York, this day fortnight. The
cause I imagine is for not reading the book of Common
Prayer, which was tendered me about a fortnight since.
This is a strange trial to me, and I am unfit to manage
it, not having had to deal with things of this nature
before. Reflect on thyself, O my soul, and see what
use thou canst make of this startling providence.
Should this appear a strange thing to thee ? Is it not
the same as many of my brethren in England have
already met with ? Hast thou not been expecting it ?
Is it any new thing, that men should rage and unite
together to prejudice Christ's flock ? Dost thou plead
exemption from the cross ? Dost thou not need it,
and may not the hand of God in this do thee good ?
Are not they blessed who are persecuted for righteous-
ness' sake ? If thou didst suffer as an evil-doer, thou
wouldst have little comfort. Examine on what grounds
thou dost refuse this English liturgy. Is it from prin-
ciples of conscience or contradiction? hast thou no
bye-ends in what thou dost ? Consider, an erroneous
conscience hath carried many very far astray, even to
die for a mere whim. Self-made crosses will be un-
comfortable ; and hast thou not cause to suspect thy
s own judgment? Consider seriously before thou dost
enter on sufferings. Thy poor congregation is dear to
86 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. IIEYWOOD.
thee ; and why wilt thou leave them to the rage of men
that hate Christ's flock, and to the charge of some in-
dolent, formal reader ? "Why wilt thou render thyself
incapable of preaching the gospel, and be laid aside as
a useless log? Wilt thou undergo the imputation of
disobedience to a lawful magistrate, whose interest
thou hast pleaded and suffered for ? Why wilt thou
put thyself into the hands of that merciless court, which
may be the ruin of thy estate and liberty ? But, get
thee behind me, Satan, thou art an offence to me; keep
silence, flesh and blood, in this matter. What have I
to do with carnal reasonings ? Hide nothing from thy
eyes that may tend to satisfaction, yet have nothing to
do with the unfruitful works of darkness. Hast thou
not carefully studied the word of God, consulted what
books and friends thou couldst meet with in this case,
wept and prayed before the Lord, that he would disco-
ver to thee what thou shouldst do, that he would
remove thy darkness, and carry thee forward on clear
grounds of scripture and conscience ? My heart is
abundantly satisfied that I cannot subscribe without
sinning against God, wronging my own conscience,
giving offence to the people of God, gratifying the pro-
fane and obstinate, and hardening superstitious persons
in their idolatrous practices. Well then, my soul,
since thou art thus resolved, prepare thyself for suffer-
ing, and glory that thou art counted worthy to suffer
for the name of Christ. It is no small honour that
God hath singled thee out as the first in this part of
the country, to bear witness to his cause : he that hath
called thee to it, will help thee in it. He can make
babes and sucklings instruments of his praise, and a
young Timothy to witness a good confession before
many witnesses, as well as an aged Paul ; yea, he can
make thy sufferings more advantageous to his gospel.
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 87
and more cheering to thy heart than all thy preaching.
The sufferings of preachers for truth have a wonderful
influence, in confirming believers and making new con-
verts. Leave God to look to his own interest, and take
thou care of thy duty. Speak not unadvisedly with
thy lips; entertain no grudgings in thy breast ; follow
the example of thy precious Saviour; revile not again;
pray heartily for thy greatest persecutors, both for the
pardon of their sins and the salvation of their souls ;
keep thy way, and the issue will be good. The Lord
can soon restrain the spirits of enemies, or blunt the
edge of their malice, and bring thee off with honour
and advantage. They are no losers who suffer for
Christ ; for he himself suffers with them, and will, no
doubt, support and encourage them, so that they will
prefer afflicted godliness to prosperous wickedness."
During a whole year, Mr. Heywood was harassed
by repeated citations, and kept in continual suspense
respecting the exercise of his ministry at Coley, not
knowing but every sermon he preached in the chapel
might be his fai-ewell. These religious opportunities
he calls " uncertain alms," and says concerning them :
*' Consider, O my soul, at what uncertainties of late
thy spiritual food hath been obtained, we may in some
respects say, ' We have gotten our bread with the peril
of our lives.' At the close of one sabbath we can
scarcely reckon on another. We have been in suspense
and hazard above a year, and yet danger is kept oflf by
God's hand. Two months since I saw the proctor's
letter to the apparitor, informing him. that there was a
suspension out against me, ah ingressu ecclesi(S, which
was to be speedily put in force, but to this day I have
heard no more of it : blessed be our good God. On
Friday we kept a private fast, and April 13, we par-
took of the Lord's supper without the least intei'rup-
88 LIFE OF THE EEV. O. HEYWOOD.
tion. God sees we have no might against our potent
enemies, therefore his own arm brings salvation. We
are just in the condition of the poor saints in Ezra's
time, who were ashamed to ask of the king a band of
soldiers, but sought the Lord and he was found of
them. Though some of the congregations are in a sad
state, whose teachers are removed into corners, yet we
may speak a word to our dear people that they may be
saved, and numbers flock to the solemn assemblies.
Whence is it, that there is this difference ? We are
not more deserving than others ; our adversaries are
as many, active, and implacable as elsewhere : it is
free grace ! But why does God delight to keep us at
uncertainties in our spiritual allowances ? Surely it is
to convince us of his sovereignty, to train us up in the
life of faith, to prevent our building tabernacles here,
and to make us think highly of our mercies from the
danger of losing them : finally, it may be, to stir up in
our hearts a longing desire for celestial glory, where
we shall never lose the enjoyment of God." Mr. Hey-
wood's active opponents could not be content with his
enjoyment of this temporary indulgence, nor wait for
his removal by the Act of Uniformity. Having pro-
cured his suspension from the archbishop's chancellor,
it was published in Halifax church, June 29, 1662.
Though suspended from his office as minister at Coley
chapel, he ventured to take leave of his beloved flock,
by preaching two or three Lord's days to them. The
fatal St. Bartholomew's day being so near at hand, he
made no efforts to procure the removal of his sus-
pension.
The advocates of episcopacy proceeded with a high
hand soon after the restoration, and at length obtained
the renowned Act of Uniformity. This Act enjoined,
that all those ministers who would not comply with its
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COEEY. 89
requisitions, should resign their situations in the esta-
blishment on the 24th of August, 1663; and that their
places should be filled by others in the same manner as
if they were deceased. The terms of conformity were,
— " That those ministers should be re-ordained who
had not been episcopally ordained ; — that they should
give their assent and consent to all and every thing
contained and prescribed in and by the book, entitled
the Book of Common Prayer ; — that they should sub-
scribe ex animo, " that the book of Common Prayer,
and of ordaining bishops, priests, and deacons, contain-
eth in it nothing contrary to the word of God ; — that it
may be lawfully used, and that they themselves would
use the form in the said books prescribed, in public
prayer and administration of the sacraments, and no
other ; — that they should take the oath of canonical
obedience to their ordinary ; — that they should abjure
the . solemn league and covenant ; — and that, besides
the oath of allegiance and supremacy, they declare it
is not lawful on any pretence whatsoever to take arms
against the king, and that they abhor that traitorous
position, of taking arms by his authority against his
person, or against those that are commissioned by him."
The real motives by which those were influenced who
were most forward and zealous in obtaining the Act of
Uniformity, appear to have been " wrath and revenge
in the old clergy, and a servile compliance with the
court, and distaste of serious religion among the young
gentry. That this is no rash imputation upon the
ruling clergy is evident," says Dr. Bates, * " not only
from their concurrence in passing that law, for actions
have a language as convincing as that of words ; but
from Dr. Sheldon then bishop of London, their great
* Dr. Bates's Funeral Sermon for Mr. Baxter. — Bates' Works,
vol. iv. p. 329, 330.
90 LIFE OF THE hev. o. heywood.
leader, who, when the lord chamberlain Manchester
told the king, when the act was under debate, ' that he
was afraid the terms of it were so rigid, that many of
the ministers would not comply with it ;' he replied,
* I am afraid they will.' This act was passed after
the king had engaged his faith and honour in his de-
claration from Breda, ' to preserve the liberty of con-
science inviolate,' which promise opened the vi'ay for
his restoration ; and after the royalists here had given
public assurance, that all former animosities should be
buried as rubbish, under the foundation of a universal
concord." Though the Nonconformist ministers were,
in general, as loyal and as anxious for the peace of the
land as any of his majesty's subjects, as earnest in their
endeavours to maintain the purity of the christian faith
as the most clamorous for uniformity, and as willing
to make any sacrifice to promote the good of souls as
any set of men, they could not comply with the terms
of this severe act.
The charge of schism has sometimes been brought
against the first Nonconformists, but with what pro-
priety let the Bartholomew act, and the history of
their sufferings declare ; " They grieved, they mourned,
they expostulated," says an eloquent American writer,*
"about things which afflicted their consciences, but they
thought not of separation. Had they been allowed to
exonerate themselves from the charge of countenancing
what, in all sincerity, they disallowed ; or had they
not been commanded to belie their conviction by an
explicit approbation of what they abhorred, the name
of Dissenters from the church of England had never
been known. Unepiscopal in their judgment they cer-
tainly were, as were all the continental protestants,
and all the fathers of the British reformation. They
* Dr. ]\Iason on Sacramental Communion.
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 91
disliked, they loathed certain exterior observances ; but
still had they been permitted to dislike and to loathe,
without exhibiting public disturbance — had they not
been required to deny what they believed to be truth,
and to profess what they believed to be falsehood — had
not the price of their peace in the Establishment been
rated so high as the perjury of their souls before God,
they had never been separated from the Church of
England. As it was, they did not retire, they were
driven from her bosom ; and they have thus left upon
record their testimony of confessors to the sacredness
of that communion which belongs to the church of
God, and to the criminality of dividing it upon slight
pretences." These holy members who were thus driven
from the places in which they had laboured with suc-
cess, " had wives and children for whom they wished
to provide ; they had friends among whom they would
have fondly remained ; they had houses to the attrac-
tions of which they were feelingly alive : but all these
they were compelled for conscience' sake to abandon !"
Nothing but a sense of duty induced them to leave the
people they loved and the means of their subsistence,
to endure the various troubles to which their noncon-
formity exposed them. Their determination was not
the hasty result of a momentary gust of passion ; they
prayed and fasted, they reflected and consulted, and at
length resolved to cast themselves on the kind provi-
dence of God, rather than violate their consciences.
The deliberations of Mr. Heywood, and the cautious
but resolute manner in which he acted on this cri-
tical occasion, may be regarded as a specimen of
what many others did, who shared with him in the
common trial. " O my soul," says he, " was ever the
hand of God so laid on the ministers of these nations,
to change them in a day from being (in some sense)
92 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
the life and spirit of the world, to become as dead car-
casses ? How many lights are thus put under a
bushel ! Woe is me ! that I have lived to see this day,
when the builders of the church are counted the
troublers of Israel, when the chariots and horsemen
thereof are not thought worthy of their stations, and
the Lord's stewards turned out of office. It is but a
little while since the Lord left me, a sad and solitary
widower, by the loss of my dear and affectionate part-
ner ; and now I am doubly solitary, in this separation
from my well-beloved people. The other was sharper
than any trial I ever met with before, yet this doth ex-
ceed it ; it is the more bitter, because it reacheth the
soul : in this, God seems to punish me seven times
more ; surely he is very angry. But have we merited
at the hands of men such things as we now suffer?
What is our transgression and our sin ? At present,
our work is to ascertain clearly the reasons of our suf-
fering : the conditions are too hard to be accepted.
Woe be to us, if we preach not the gospel ! but a
double woe to us, if we enervate the gospel by legal
ceremonies. Our people's souls are precious, and we
ought to take care of them ; but our own souls are
precious also, and we must not destroy them under
pretence of saving those of others. Our work is dear
to us ; but God is dearer, and we must not do the least
evil to obtain the greatest good. There are worldly
advantages enough to sway us to conformity, if con-
science did not answer all the pleas of flesh and blood.
Should we forsake our christian liberty, and put our
necks under such a yoke as neither we nor our fathers
were able to bear ? Should we build again what we
have destroyed, and make ourselves transgressors ?
Should we violate solemn covenants, leave the work of
reformation, and return to Egypt ? It is surely better
HIS EJECTMENT FEOM COLEY. 93
to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to en-
joy the pleasures of sin for a season. The bargain will
be too hard to provide a livelihood by making ship-
wreck of faith and a good conscience. God can ad-
vance his work without our sinful shifts, and rear up
monuments to his glory without our complying preva-
rications : suffering may benefit the gospel as much as
service, when God calls to it. Would to God we could
redeem our precious privileges by the loss of worldly
advantages. It is no pleasure for us to be idle, fain
would we be labouring in the Lord's vineyard : but
alas, we are hindered, and woe be to them by whom
the offence comes. ' Verily there is a reward for the
righteous : verily he is a God that judgeth in the
earth.' "
The sufferings of Mr. Heywood for his nonconfor-
mity came upon him in quick succession. He was
suspended from his work as a minister in the Establish-
ment before the Act of Uniformity required, and,
within a month of the fatal Bartholomew's day, was
excommunicated : " And were it just," he says, " how
formidable would that sentence be ; but ' the curse
causeless shall not come.' Yet the thing we greatly
feared is come upon us. The enemies of our liberties
have gained the upper ground of secular power, and
obtained statutes against us. This is the day they
have long and wishfully looked for. The Act of Uni-
formity struck all Nonconformists dead on Bartholo-
mew's day, Aug. 24, 1662. But as if that would not
despatch me so suddenly and effectually as men's ma-
lice intended, I must have a wound before that which
was mortal, that I, at least, might die a lingering
death, like my dearest Lord. A suspension made way
for my dissolution some months before the act took
place, whereby I was suspended, ah exercitio officii^
94 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOB.
from preaching and praying. My excommunication
was published at Halifax Nov. 2. Now I am as a
dead man out of mind ; my voice must no more be
heard upon the mountains of Israel. I am not only
turned out of the pulpit, but out of the church, and
must neither speak nor hear God's word. I am cast
out of the synagogue by men, yet the Lord doth not
cast me off: though I be as dead, yet through mercy I
am alive to praise my God, yea, alive to God through
Jesus Christ. Though I be cast out of the visible
church-state, yet not out of the mystical body of
Christ, who can and will take up those that are cast
out by men. ^I am thrust out from communion with
a corrupt administration, yet, through rich grace, I
may enjoy communion with God and his saints in
private : none can banish me from the presence of
the Lord. O the days of liberty, the opportunities of
salvation we have enjoyed ! when God's candle shone
upon my head, and when, through grace, my candle
shone upon others ; when, by the light of his love, I
walked through the darkness of temptation. ' 'Remem-
bering these things, I pour out my soul in me ; for I
had s:one with the multitude, I went with them to the
house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with
the multitude that kept holy-day.' But those pleasant
days of the Son of Man are gone for the present ; and
behold a gloomy day, yea, a dark and lonesome night.
We must not divine; men forbid, and God doth say,
amen, in severe displeasure. But shall we desist alto-
gether ? The word is as burning fire shut up in our
bones, and though it cannot blaze in public, as a
beacon on a hill, yet should be glowing in private, to
enlighten the houses of God's people, and warm the
hearts of those who are willing to entertain us or our
message." At the urgent solicitation of his father
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 95
Angier, lie endeavoured to obtain an absolution ; but
the proctor sent word, that nothing would prevail with
the chancellor to grant it, unless Mr. Heywood would
take an oath to obey the authority, and abide by the
commands, of the church. These terms were too high
a price at which to purchase ecclesiastical forgiveness.
Not content with Mr. Heywood's ejectment and ex-
communication, his opponents were determined to re-
sist all his attempts to promote the spiritual advantage
of the people to whom he had ministered in holy things,
many of whom held him deservedly in very high
esteem. " Seldom," says he, " doth one affliction come
alone. I did hope, my restless adversaries would have
been satisfied with my silence, provided for the place,
or suffered some provision to be made. It grieved my
heart to see the people scattered from sabbath to sab-
bath, and the place left totally vacant without any
solemn assembly for a long time. I did hope a stranger
might enjoy the same liberty, as hitherto I have en-
joyed elsewhere ; therefore I sent for Mr. Leaver,* a
godly minister out of Lancashire, to preach to my dear
people, at least a day or two, who with difficulty ob-
tained access to the pulpit. But the restless malice of
an implacable enemy, stirred up his active instruments
to hinder that gospel opportunity. The weather, Dec.
7th, 1662, was snowy and sharp ; yet God brought
* Mr. Robt. Lever was ejected from Cockey Chapel, in Ains-
worth, a place about a mile from the house in which Mr. Heywood
was born. He was probably a descendant of the Levers of Little
Lever, one of whom v/as an intimate friend of John Bradford,
the martyr, and a chaplain to Edward VI. After his ejectment,
IMr. Lever frequently preached in his own house, and elsewhere,
as he had opportunities. When the indulgences were issued by
king Charles, he preached publicly at Bolton, and collected a very
numerous congregation. He was the first pastor of the dissenting
chvirch in that town, and died July 4th, 1692, aged 58.
96 I.IFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
a great assembly to hear his word. But when we
were ready to go into the chapel, two of my old oppon-
ents stopped our course, and charged Mr. Leaver to
preach at his peril, threatening to disturb us with a
troop of horse. Upon this resolute and unexpected
charge we withdrew, returned home, and the con-
gregation dispersed, which, all things considered, was
judged most agreeable to scripture example, a gospel
spirit, and christian prudence. It was a sad disappoint-
ment ; we went with as great confidence of enjoying
the ordinances, as in times of the greatest liberty : but
we see man designs, yet God disposeth. It is danger-
ous for a civil officer to hinder any good, but to step
' beyond an official obligation, to do mischief, is double
wickedness. May the God of heaven open the eyes of
those who think they do him a service in preventing
his worship! May they be turned into God's way,
who are so violent in their own ! ' Father, forgive
them, for they know not,' or consider not, ' what they
do.' May the people of God learn to improve the dis-
pensation ; for our times are in God's hands, not men's.
May God make the want of an ordinance, an ordinance
for good !"
The anathema of one excommunication had already
been denounced against him at Halifax ; but as if his
opponents doubted its validity, another was obtained
from the court at Chester, and published in his native
parish. Mr. H. had been guilty of preaching a funeral
sermon, occasioned by the death of a friend at Bolton,
and for this enormous offence he was cited to appear
at Chester, and for not attending at the appointed time
he was excommunicated. The citation was published
in Bolton church, Dec. 7th, 1662, and his excommuni-
cation, Jan. 4th, 1663. Warrants also were issued for
the apprehension of his person, if he publicly ventured
His EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 97
into Lancashire. On the receipt of this intelligence
from his relations, he thus writes : " O the wonderful
malice of men, and straits of a poor worm, that every
foot would trample to death did not ray God secure
me ! I did hope my fare would have been no sharper
than my brethren in the common tribulation. I as-
sured myself, that if I was thrust out of the pulpit, yet
I might attend church ; and if I might not preach the
word for the profit of others, yet I might hear it for my
own advantage ; but an excommunication renders me
incapable of this privilege. I thought if I might not
preach in Yorkshire, yet I might occasionally engage
in my native county : but all doors are shut against me
in public : and what remains but that I sit alone and
keep silence ? O for a frame of heart suitable to my
state, to mourn in secret for my own sins and my peo-
ple's pride, in their contempt of ordinances ! When
shall I come and appear before God in public ? I could
even envy the sparrows and swallows their near ap-
proaches to the altar of God ; my soul longeth, yea
even fainteth for the courts of the Lord. I could
choose to sit at the threshold as a doorkeeper, rather
than be admitted into the presence chamber as a prince's
choicest favourite. Time was, when the Lord's house
was established on the top of the mountains, and all
the country flocked to it like doves to their windows ;
but now we sit alone, like doves in the valley. Time
was, when not a dog moved his tongue against our
church assemblies, yea, when many became professors,
for the fear of the true Israelites fell upon them ; but
now the men of God cannot go to their work, and the
saints are scattered abroad. Time was, when we went
from strength to strength till we appeared before God
in Zion ; but now God hath weakened our strength in
the way, and shortened our days, and the bright sea*
VOL. I. H
9^ LIFE OF THE UF.V. O. HEYWOOD.
son of our gospel opportunities. O when will they
return ? when will another day of mercy dawn ?"
Men did all they could to hinder Mr. H. from doing
or receiving good ; but many of the people of God in
his native county highly valued his company and la-
bours, and opened their houses and hearts to welcome
him. He cheerfully embraced every opportunity of
usefulness, and broke the bread of life to multitudes,
who came to hear him preach in the night, in private
houses. He also remembered his poor, afflicted people
at Coley, and preached to them in his own house as
often as prudence permitted, though the activity of
his enemies made every such attempt very hazardous.
He could now bear his testimony from experience to
the truth of the Saviour's declaration, " Blessed are
they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake."
He could say, " Though men forsake me, my God takes
me up ; and the worse men deal with me, the more
graciously doth God communicate himself to me, and
he raiseth me up friends to entertain me with more
endeared affection. Though I be excommunicated, the
Lord disposed my dear father Angier to admit me to
the sealing ordinance of the Lord's supper, March 1st,
1663, when the Lord wonderfully manifested himself
to my poor soul, in an awakening, quickening, and
softening manner, so that I can scarcely ever remember
having such enlargement in a public ordinance in all
my life. O that the impression thereof may be lasting,
and fit me for further service and suffering the re-
mainder of my days !"
The state of constant alarm in which he now lived,
the violence of the persecution that raged against him,
the holy courage he manifested in what appeared ta
him the path of duty, and the watchful care of divine
providence over him, may be learjit from the following^
Ills EJF-CTMENT FROM COLEY. 90
extracts: * " June 10, 1663, there was a large assembly
at Coley-Hall, where Mr. Jollie was to preach for me;
as it pleased God I was in Lancashire at that time.
The soldiers had intelligence, and came to apprehend
the j)eople, but were disappointed, the persons assembled
having notice of the design. The same night, the
soldiers came to my house to search, but found not
their prey. Since then, they have obtained informa-
tion concerning several persons that were present, who
are bound over to the sessions. Others have escaped
them at presefit, after whom search is made, and some
they are sending to prison on other accounts. Hitherto
I have lived quietly at home, though they often watch
my house to get a clear advantage against me ; but
though they have known of some solemn meetings,
which I have attended to preach the word, yet hitherto
the Lord hath restrained them."
"August 121th. Towards night, several persons came
to inform me, that the troopers were coming that night
to apprehend me, and desired me to go out of the way.
I told them, I had not broken either God's law or man's
law, so as to deserve any punishment from man ; there-
fore I resolved to stay, hoping my integrity would pre-
serve me, and my known loyalty and attachment to the
king, be my best apology against the imputations of
men about plots, which is the common pretence to se-
cure me : but my escaping would seem to ^^lead guilty.
Accordingly I stayed, and slept as sweetly as ever I did,
without the least molestation. Many other times I
have had the like merciful protection and prevention
after such alarms. Such is the active malice of some,
that upon Lord's day last, Dec. 6th, there was ano-
* These extracts, and many others, are selected from a manu-
script narrative of Mr. Heywood's life, which he brought down to
about the fortieth year of his age, and then he commenced his diary.
H 2
100 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
ther excommunication of me published at Halifax,
that that business may be surely done : the meaning
whereof, truly, I cannot tell, but desire to make some
spiritual use of it, and get so much nearer to God, as
men cast me off from him."
*'Oct. 11* I had a call to preach at Shaw chapel,
in Lancashire, which I willingly embraced, and preach-
ed there the whole day without any disturbance.
Though it was a very rainy day, a great number of
good people assembled from many parts, and there
were visible stirrings of affection. Who knows but
the Lord will do much good ? The strong desires
and great efforts of people to hear the word, should
quicken ministers to adventure themselves to break
the bread of life, as they have invitation and oppor-
tunities. There hath not been any trouble to me or
the hearers for that day's work hitherto, though there
have been troubles attending others for the like at-
tempts in the same place."
" Dec. 20. I heard there was to be preaching at
Coley chapel, and after long debate what I should do,
at last, I resolved to go and hear what doctrine is de-
livered to my beloved people ; for I had heard an
Antinomian was to preach. Being there, the church-
warden came to me in a fury, before the minister had
taken his text, and would have taken me out of the
chapel, to which, for several reasons, I refused to con-
sent. He charged the minister to forbear preaching
to an excommunicated person. I replied, if he would
not preach, I would. After a pause, he took his text,
and preached, though, so far as I could judge, not
much to edification. I stayed at home in the afternoon,
where I had an abundant tide of the Spirit, more than
ever I had experienced, (that I remember,) which car-
ried me out in affectionate prayer for the church.
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 101
Since this, I judge it my duty to spend the sabbath
in my own house as well as I can, rather than endan-
ger a disturbance in public. I may now say, as the
Psalmist, ' I watch, and am as a sparrow, alone on the
house-top.' I am become an alien at home, and may
not so much as sit down amongst my old friends, nor
set foot in the house of God. What have I done, thus
to provoke the Lord, and thrust myself out of the
house appointed for his name ? Surely, there is some
undiscovered Achan in my heart, that has caused me
to be thus troubled ; some Jonah has raised this tem-
pest, and occasioned my being thrown out of the ship
of the church. Through grace, I have not committed
any fault worthy of such a censure from man ; yet, I
cannot slightly pass it over and make nothing of it,
but must own the hand of God, and accept the punish-
ment of my sins, whatever the instruments design.
How long will the Lord be angry with our prayers,
cast us out of his presence, and deny us the enjoyment
of public privileges ? O that God would cause his face
to shine upon his sanctuary for his name's sake !"
" About this time, I rose up early one Lord's day
morning, and resolved to go to Penistone, to hear a
friend of mine, who was to preach there that day.
But being alone, I lost my way, and thinking it would
be late before I could arrive there, I turned to Honley,
to hear Mr. Drury,* but he did not preach that day.
After some overtures made for my preaching there,
but in vain, I went to Holmfirth, where vuiexpectedly,
at noon, the preacher and several of the people invited
me to preach that afternoon, which I did, and found
* Mr. Drury, ejected from this place, was a native of Scotland,
whither he returned some time after his ejectment ; but was con-
tinually changing his place. He died at Edinburgh, in the reign
of King William. He was much esteemed as a pious man, and
as having a great gift in prayer.
102 LIFE OF THE UEV. O. HEYWOOD.
much enlargement in my work: though my oppo-
nents have heard of it, they have not assayed to
molest me. It may he, my missing the way may find
a soul."
" In the court at York there were strong prejudices
against me. Some of my adversaries had informed,
upon oath, that I was preaching still, and that when
some persons came to disturb me, I beat them with my
cane, which are palpable and groundless lies : my intel-
ligence informed me, that there was a warrant in the
hands of some justices, which the proctor saith, he
saw, and desired me in prudence to avoid it. I there-
fore went into Lancashire for a month, and after ten
weeks' continuance at hom.e, heard no more of it.
Besides my civil liberty, I have hitherto enjoyed spi-
ritual privileges, though in private, yet with comfort.
I have had the communion of saints, in a considerable
company, at my house every week, day or night, since
I have been debarred from public opportunities. This
is the more remarkable, because the churchwarden
and constable are very near neighbours to me, and the
one is so malicious, that he hath been seen to watch
the house himself, and hath been known to set others
to watch."
" Now, at last, a fatal blow is given to my liberty,
for my restless adversaries have procured a writ
(de excommunicato capiendo,) to apprehend me as
an excommunicated man. The Lord providentially
brought it on me, by an occasional meeting of the bai-
liffs, who had a process to take me on May 3, 1664 ;
yet they have been exceedingly civil and courteous to
me, and were willing to dismiss me, so that I enjoy my
full liberty still, beyond my expectation, only promising
to be forth-coming when I am called for by the sheriff.
I acknowledge the kindness of Dr. Maude as iustru-
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 103
mental in procuring this reprieve ; the Lord reward
him and others, for all their great labour of love in
this behalf Though this writ hath been procured,
and I was in suspense whether I must be confined in
prison or not ; yet the providence of God hath not
only kept me at liberty, but hath ordered me more
public employment and usefulness since those fears,
than for a long time before. Three whole Lord's days
I have preached in parish churches to great congre-
gations. May I not retort on my threatening oppo-
nents, * Why boast ye yourselves in mischief, O mighty
men ? the goodness of God endureth continually.' I
have found it so, and can oppose God's goodness to
men's vileness, nor can they be so bad as he is good.
I was the first that was begun with in this county,
yet many others have been in bonds while I have been
at liberty. Shall I thence conclude, that I am more
righteous than others ? God forbid ! rather the Lord
Jesus sees my unfitness to suffer, and indulgeth my
infirmity. O my soul, bless the Lord, who is thy help
and shield, who hath delivered thee out of the hands
of all thine enemies, who hath girded thee with
strength, who hath prevented all thy fears, and hath
been even better to thee than all thy hopes. No wea-
pon formed against me hath yet prospered, and every
tongue that hath risen up against me hath been con-
demned : my God hath censured their censures, and
condemned their damnatory sentences, so that hitherto
their words have broken no bones, but vanished into
air. The more that enemies have spoken against the
servants of God, the more we have been able to speak
for our God, according to Acts iv. 29- So it is, God
opens when men shut. It is a miracle of mercies, that
men lay not violent hands on those they account not
fit to live in the land. God keeps us in our own
104 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
houses, and amongst our dear relations and neigh-
bours ; he alone preserves us."
At this time, when at home on the Lord's day, three
or four companies privately assembled at different parts
of the day, when he preached and they heard as if
every season were the last they should enjoy : but
when he had opportunities, he preferred preaching in
public places at a distance. " May 8th," he says, " I
was called out of my bed before sun-rise, by a consider-
able number of persons who came to hear the word of
God. There came also another comjiany in the fore-
noon, and still more in the afternoon : and we enjoyed
the whole day in peace, with abundant spiritual en-
largements. It was a delightful day to my soul, though
23ainful to my body ; but having so fair a call and a
full auditory, I laid out myself not knowing but it
might be a parting exercise. I find that when Paul
was ready to depart from Troas, he continued his
speech till midnight : and I cannot spend myself in a
better cause. Blessed be the Lord for his goodness ! I
questionnot but the Lord will hear prayer, accept praises,
and do our souls good by ovu* fears, tears, and troubles."
"May 15th, going to Penistone to hear Mr. Swift,*
who to this day enjoyeth his liberty, except three
weeks' imprisonment, he importunately urged me to
preach, which I was prevailed on to do. I was em-
ployed both parts of the day, and though I found not
such special assistance of the Spirit, as sometimes I
have had and did expect, yet the auditory was much
affected ; and who knows what good may be done, for
* Mr. Swift was imprisoned three times for his nonconformity,
after which he was prevailed on to take the Oxford oath, and read
a few of the prayers, though he never complied with the requi-
sitions of the Act of Uniformity. Thus he continued in this small
vicai-age till his death, which happened Oct. 13, 1G89, in the 68th
year of his age.
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 105
it was a large assembly and many had come very far ?
A gentleman in the parish sent to me at night, signify-
ing that he had heard that I was in trouble, and entreat-
ed me to lodge with him at his house as long as I
pleased, and he questioned not but in the ordinary way
of providence I might be safe there. I thanked him,
but resolved to return to my family and commit myself
to the Lord, who I hope will still watch over me as
hitherto he hath wonderfully done." A few weeks
after this, he preached at Mottram church at the re-
quest of the churchwarden, and with the consent of the
vicar, who, though a conformist, was present both
parts of the day, and was so much pleased with his
services as to request he would repeat his visit. " I
bless the Lord," says Mr. H. " that he graciously
helped me to deliver his truth with some measure of
enlargement and without reflections, which seldom do
any good, but often much harm."
In those days of peculiar danger and alarm, Mr.
Heywood was frequently engaged with his brethren in
tribulation, at special seasons of fasting and prayer in
private : they were the more earnest in addressing
God, as all hope of relief from human authority was
improbable. The length and devotional fervour of
those services, condemn those who are at ease in
Zion, in our times of gospel opportunities. The fol-
lowing extract will probably excite the astonishment
of some that read it ; but the recollection of the cir-
cumstances in which Mr. H. was placed, will justify
him from the charge of enthusiasm. " Tuesday, June
7th," he says, " we had a private day for seeking the
Lord in prayer. There was a considerable number of
Christians in the room, which was my father Angler's
study. I was put to engage in the duty first, and
continued about three hours pouring out my soul be-
106 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
fore the Lord, principally on behalf of his church. It
was a very delightful day and a token for good. The
Lord warmed my heart exceedingly, and the hearts of
others, and will certainly return answers to all those
affectionate breathings and importunate prayers."
The spirit of violent persecution which prevailed
about this time, and was cherished by the high church
party against the Nonconformists, almost exceeds our
credit, were not the fact substantiated by the most in-
dubitable evidence. The following instances may be
taken as specimens : " July 13th, 1664, being at Shib-
den-Hall, to visit a friend there, I was desired to tarry
dinner. They had invited some friends, and among the
rest Dr. Hook, vicar of Halifax, who would not stay to
dine, because, as he said, he was bound by his canons,
not to eat with an excommunicated person : and though
he would have gone away, yet I thought I would ra-
ther quit the place than that he should lose his dinner,
or be defiled, or his conscience be perplexed." " Ste-
phen Ellis, our churchwarden, came to demand four
shillings for my absence from church four sabbaths.
My servant answered, that if I came, he would put
me out of church. Yes, said he, and so I will too, for
the law must be executed, hoth to keep him awmj, and
punish his ahsence."
This persecuting spirit was not confined to a few in-
dividuals, or displayed only on a few solitary occasions,
but prevailed among the members of the British parlia-
ment of that day, and induced them to pass what has
been called the " Conventicle Act." By this law it
was enjoined: "That every jierson above sixteen years
of age, present at any meeting, under pretence of any
exercise of religion, in other manner than is the prac-
tice of the church of England, where there are five
persons more than the household, shall, for the first
MIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 107
offence, by a justice of peace be recorded, and sent to
jail three months, or pay £5 ; and for the second of-
fence, six months, or pay £lO ; and for the third time,
being convicted by a jury, shall be banished to some
of the American plantations, except New England or
Virginia, for seven years, or pay £100 ; and in case
such person return, or make his escape, he is to he ad-
judged a felon, and suffer death icithout henefit of
clergy^ It was a great hardship attending this act,
that it gave a justice the power to convict a person
without jury ; for if the convicted person was inno-
cent, there was no relief to be obtained, the justice be-
ing judge and jury. This unreasonable and anti-scrip-
tural act, commenced operation July 1st, 1664, and its
effects were soon visible in a famine of God's word,
crowded prisons, enormous fines, banished worthies,
frequent litigations, hosts of spies, and multiplied per-
juries. No benefit was derived from this act, except by
hireling informers, who infested every part of the land,
and fattened on the miseries of their best country-
men.
A human device so contrary to the spirit of the
gospel and the law of heaven, could not extinguish the
ardent zeal of Mr. Heywood, nor drive him from the
path of duty : he was in labours more abundant. "We
have had," he says, " every Lord's day that I have been
at home, a considerable number with me to keep the
sabbath, and hitherto we have been in safety, without
disturbance. Yesterday, Aug. 21st, we had a most
agreeable day. My manner is, to spend the time as
we are wont to do in public ordinances, only we are
longer in the duty of prayer, wherein I usually spend
an hour in the morning, in confession and petition, and
an hour in the afternoon, in the pleasant duty of thanks-
giving, wherein the Lord hath wonderfully enlarged
108 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
my heart far beyond my expectations. Blessed, for
ever blessed, be his name." Some of these stolen op-
portunities were rendered exceedingly refreshing by
the presence of God, and on these occasions he would
say, " Such is worth a prison : let me obey God's call,
and do his will, and let his will be done upon me."
Mr. H. was ready on all occasions to engage in his
Master's work, particularly in public, though every
time he exposed himself to the malice of his vigilant
adversaries. "Sept. 6th," he records, "when I was
preparing for an intended journey into Lancashire,
there came a messenger to me, requesting I would
preach at Penistone the Lord's day following; and be-
cause opportunities of that nature are but rare, I
waved my first intention, and embraced that motion.
The same day having the advantage of solitariness in
my house, I went into my chamber, and prostrated
myself before the Lord, earnestly desiring of him, that
if he called me to that public work, he would do some
good by me : but in that duty I had not the assistance
I desired and expected, and such as I have often en-
joyed. On the Tuesday after, at Denton, I had ano-
ther invitation to preach on the Lord's day, at Mot-
tram : and though I had travelled that week, and had
but little leisure for preparation, though I was even
under some indisposition of body, I experienced abun-
dant enlargement of soul, great liberty of speech, and
assistance in the work. The congregation was extra-
ordinarily great. Who knows whether shall prosper,
this or the other ? However, I adore infinite wisdom
and goodness in both."
If Mr. Hey wood enjoyed his liberty, and embraced
many opportunities of doing good, at a time when the
terror of three excommunications hung over him, it
was not because of inactivity or defective animosity in
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 109
liis enemies, but because the special providence of God
restrained their malice, and protected his faithful ser-
vant. " Yesterday, Oct. 9th," he remarks, " N. W — 's
man, and widow B — , watched under the gates in the
forenoon, while I prayed and preached in my house,
and uttered many bitter, threatening words, both to my
servant and others, yet we were in quietness all the
day : blessed be God. Since then, I hear there are
several persons suborned to watch my house, to see
who come to me on the Lord's day, and to give notice
to Sir John Armitage, who purposeth to surprise us as
a conventicle, according to the late act, and carry us
to prison. A short time afterwards, early on the
Lord's day morning, as I opened my gates, a man ran
away down the field : he is servant to a chief adver-
sary of mine. What his intention was, I know not,
but through God's rich providence, we enjoyed a
blessed sabbath, and had a greater company than
usual, because on that day, there was no preaching at
Coley chapel. Many of the neighbours spent the sab-
bath with us to our abundant satisfaction, and without
any disturbance : blessed be God."
It had been a great addition to Mr. Heywood's trou-
bles, that the place in which he had laboured for the
good of souls, and from which he had been ejected,
was frequently unsupplied, and though two persons
had remained a short time as ministers at the chapel,
it was still vacant. It was therefore with great plea-
sure he records : " There is an honest minister come
to Coley at last, one Mr. Hoole, a very late conformist :
the first time he preached there was Oct. 23, 1664.
He preacheth well and is a pious man, and therefore I
am resolved not to draw any from the public ordi-
nances, but encourage them to wait on God in them,
and pray for his blessing on them, to the good of many
110 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOt).
souls. But I fear my opponents will be his enemies
for following that which is good, though he do con^
form." Mr. H.'s people having the opportunity of'
hearing the gospel at home, and his preaching at his
house on the Lord's day being attended with much
danger, he was the more willing to embrace opportuni-
ties of preaching and hearing at distant places. His
narrative therefore abounds with the relation of many
sabbath-day journies about this time, among which are
the following: "Because I could not peaceably go to my
own chapel to hear Mr. Hoole, I went Nov. 5. to hear
Mr. Crossley at Bramhope, who by the good provi-
dence of God still continues in his public work without
conforming. I heard him in the morning, but at noon
Mr. Dinely, * the gentleman of the place, moved that
I should preach in the afternoon. I told him I was
willino", if Mr. Crossley was content, and if it might
not prejudice the people. They unanimously desired
it, and referred the consequences to God's providence.
I considered it as a call from God, and ventured to
preach. The Lord was graciously seen in giving me
unwonted liberty of speech and spirit, both in prayer
and preaching ; and affected the hearts of his people :
blessed be God. — Again, I went to spend a sabbath at
Bramhope, and heard a Mr. Ord, a north country mi-
nister, who had lately been imprisoned at York for
preaching in a church in that city, but was released at
the end of three weeks, upon a flaw in the signijicahit.
It was a precious sabbath to me. The day after we
took the advantage of a public fast : a great congrega-
tion came from all parts. The Lord helped me to
* Bramhope-hall, the residence of this worthy gentleman, was
a common asylum for poor nonconformist ministers during their
sufferings. The worship of God was maintained in this place till
the death of :Mr. Dineley, in 1689, in the 83rd year of his age.
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COEEY. Ill
carry on the work of the day, after Mr. C. had made
an expository beginning. The service continued from
eleven till half-past three o'clock. Blessed, blessed be
our gracious God for that precious and unexpected op-
portunity."
The dangers to which Mr. H. was constantly ex-
posed by his repeated excommunications, and the war-
rants that had been issued for his apprehension, made
him desirous to use every lawful means to obtain ab-
solution ; or if that could not be granted, to be able to
attend public preaching without fear of disturbance.
On this latter subject he says : " Because I have a
great desire to wait on God in public ordinances,
though it be but to hear the minister at Coley, I have
therefore sent to a friend at York to consult with some
proctor, whether I may not, according to the bishop's
laws, go and hear a sermon in public, though I be ex-
communicated, as they call it ? The answer I have
received is this : ' Dr. Hitch, Dean of York, saith, that
an excommunicated person is not allowed to be present
at prayers or sermon ; yet it being usual for such to
hear sermons without disturbance, he wonders that
any churchwarden should be so ignorant or malicious
as to hinder any from hearing the word. He said he
would not deliver his judgment under his hand for
£100.' I have, saith my informant, searched the
canons, and consulted with several ministers about the
case, and their opinion is, that there is no law pro-
hibiting any person, either heathen or Christian, from
hearing the word preached. This is the answer, which
smells of Babel, and is strangely confused. It is not
allowed for such a one to hear, and yet there is no law,
canon, or statute prohibiting it : surely where there is
no law, there is no transgression ; but this is like all
the rest of their rules, they make laws as they list."
112 LIFE OF THE HEY. O. HEYWOOD.
In the beginning of the year 1665, lyir. H. visited
his native place, and the people of the neighbourhood
were very importunate to enjoy his services. He
preached every night in the week, besides keeping a
fast, and his usual work on the Lord's day ; " I was
induced to it," he saith, " partly, because it is my na-
tive place, where my relations are resident ; partly,
because their public administrations are unprofitable
and discouraging; partly, because I took this as a token
for future good ; and likewise, because I knew not that
I should ever appear amongst them again." Mr. Bes-
wick, minister of Ratcliffe, near Bury, made bitter
complaints to the justices, that Mr. H. came over ta
Bolton jiarish, and preached and prayed among great
numbers of people, which he called conventicles ; but
the justices, wiser and more tolerant than he, put him
off. Afterwards he went to a privy sessions at Bolton,
and made a similar complaint ; but Mr. Hulton, of
Hulton-park, a justice of the peace, told him he did
not know what a conventicle was, and that what he
had informed against was not one, and thus gave him
a rebuke for his information. It had been well for
England, and more consistent with her boasted hu-
manity, if all justices in those perplexing times, had
acted in the same manner.
Early in the summer Mr. H. resolved to visit his
friends in the south, but came not to the determination
till he had fervently implored the divine direction and
blessing. "After long deliberation," he says, "I de-
termined on a journey into the south, and observed a
private fast to beg God's leave and presence. He gave
us a gracious token for good, and a satisfying return
of prayer afterwards ; so that in about six weeks time,
I despatched that journey and returned home in safety,
having visited several friends at Cambridge, Dedham
HIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 113
in Essex, London, Coventry, Lancashire, and else-
where. Oh for a thankful heart !" Having experienced
many mercies, and enjoyed much comfort in his journey,
he set apart the 12th of July as a day of thanksgiving,
on which occasion he was honoured with the company
of several christian friends, and the presence of God.
After his return he renewed his accustomed labours
as he had opportunity. The first Lord's day he spent
in his own house with a few of his beloved people, at
which time, he says, *' I found extraordinary enlarge-
ment in prayer and praise, but especially in wrestling
with God for mercy on behalf of the nation, There
were eleven or twelve besides my family ; and O what
floods of tears were poured forth ! We were in safety,
without fear, all day ; though I have since heard that
the constable and churchwarden were met near my
house ; but the Lord surprisingly turned them another
way."
About this time, Mr. H. was in constant danger of
being apprehended, but was remarkably preserved from
the malicious designs of men. Among other instances,
he records the following: " Yesterday, Aug. 19th, the
pursuivants took up several persons at or about Hali-
fax, and are taking up others to-day, to carry them to
York, before the Duke, on what account is not known.
Several were afraid for me, but blessed be God, we
have enjoyed this Lord's day peaceably and profitably,
and with a considerable number of people. Sept. 17th,
the constable and two men came to my house, while I
was at prayer, and searched it, when it so happened,;
that contrary to what was generally the case, there
were not more than four persons besides the family.
The rest of the day was spent in prayer and praise.
Nov. 5th. While I was engaged at Penistone, conduct-
ing the monthly fast at that place for the plague in.
VOL. I. I
114 LIFE OF THE KEV. O. HEYWOOD,
London, notice was brought into the church, that some
troopers were at the gates to apprehend me ; but being
taken a back way to Water-hall, I escaped. — When
preaching at Shadwell, near Leeds, for Mr. Hardcastle,
at that time in prison for nonconformity, a bailiff from
Leeds, having another man with him, looked in at the
window and said, I have nothing to do with this man.
He made great inquiries after the name of the preach-
er, and desired several persons to step to the pulpit
for information : but they all refused. Being told of
this at the conclusion of service, I went on to the after-
noon's work, before the congregation had dispersed.
When singing was begun, the bailiffs went off, saying,
let us leave them merry : so we enjoyed our liberty
that day."
From various circumstances already related, it ap-
pears Mr. H. was a child of special providence : this
opinion receives additional confirmation from the fol-
lowing short narrative of an event, that transpired be-
tween the time of his ejectment and the close of this
period. " While I was musing, and pondering how to
get my rent discharged, and had no way, at this time,
but to borrow it, there came a dear friend to me, and
brought me £5. which did furnish me with an over-
plus besides my rent. It was a seasonable present,
sent to me by a liberal hand ; yet I own God chiefly
in it, who cares for me, as in this and several other ex-
periences is evident. O what a sweet thing is the life
of faith ! That is a perfumed gift, which thus comes
from God as a token of love, after the actings of faith
in prayer. How good is God to me ! I live nobly,
and am so far from wanting, that I have all and
abound ; and where supplies fail one way, God makes
them up another. Many times I expect most where I
am most disappointed, and help comes in from quar-».
ttIS EJECTMENT FROM COLEY. 115
ters where I had least reason to look for any ; but this
1 may say, ' The Lord is my shepherd ; I shall not
want :' and hitherto God hath helped me." *
* This narration corresponds in so many particulars with an
anecdote in the " Life of O. Hey wood," by the late Dr. Fawcett,
that reference is probably made to the same event, only this is
Mr. Heywood's relation of the fact, and the other is the account
handed down by tradition. Among the numerous private MSS.
of Mr. H. still in preservation, and which have been carefully and
minutely examined, no allusion is made to such an event, except in
tlig above extract. Dr. Fawcett says : " The little stock of money
was quite exhausted, the family provisions were entirely consumed,
and Martha could lend no more assistance from the little savings of
former days. Mr. H. still trusted that God would provide ; when
he had nothing but the divine promise to live upon, he said,
' When cruise and barrel both are dry,
We still will trust in God iMost High.'
When the children began to be impatient for want of food, Mr.
H. called his servant, and said to her, ' JMartha, take a basket, and
go to Halifax ; call upon Mr. N. the shopkeeper, in Northgate, and
tell him, I desire him to lend me five shillings : if he will be kind
enough to do it, buy us some cheese, some bread, and such other
little things as you know we most want ; and be as expeditious as
you can, for the poor children begin to be fretful for want of
something to eat. Put on your hat and cloak, and the Lord give
you good speed ; in the meantime, we will offer up our requests
to him who feeds the young ravens when they cry, and who
knows what we have need of before we ask him.' Martha ob-
served her master's directions ; but when she came near the house
where she was ordered to beg the loan of five shillings, through
timidity and bashfulness, her heart failed her. She passed by the
door again and again, without having courage to go in and tell her
errand. At length, Mr. N. standing at his shop-door, and seeing
Martha in the street, called her to him, and said, ' Are not you
Mr. Heywood's servant?' When she had, with an anxious heart,
answered in the affirmative, he added, ' I am glad I have this op-
portunity of seeing you ; some friends at M — , have remitted to
xaejive guineas for your master, and I was just thinking how I
could contrive to send it.' Martha burst into tears, and, for some
time, could not utter a syllable. The necessities of the family,
their trust in Providence, the seasonableness of the supply, and a
116 LIFE OF THE HEV. O. HEYWOOD.
It was in this year, (156.5) that the plague broke out
in London, which carried off above 100,000 persons.
The clergy belonging to the London churches, mostly
forsook their parishioners in this season of extremity ;
but several of the ejected ministers, who had till now
laboured only in private, influenced by a tender com-
passion for the souls of their suffering fellow-men, oc-
cupied the deserted pulpits, and hastened at every call
to visit the pestilential chambers of the sick and dying,
to administer the consolations of the gospel, or pluck
the departing spirit as a brand out of the fire. They
preached, and prayed, and exhorted with the zeal of
martyrs, and the people listened to their ministry as in
the near approach of eternity. The power of God was
remarkably displayed in their preservation in the
midst of deaths, and his grace was gloriously illustrat-
ed in the success of their exertions. Yet while those
holy men were thus employed, the parliament, assem-
bled at Oxford, was preparing greater hardships for
the Nonconformists, as will appear from the sequel.
variety of other ideas breaking in upon her mind at once, quite
overpowered her. At length, she told ]Mr. N. upon what errand she
came, but that she had not courage to ask him to lend her poor
master money. The tradesman could not but be affected with the
story, and told INIartha to come to him when the like necessity
should press upon them, at any future time. She made haste to
procure the necessary povisions, and, with a heart lightened of its
burden, ran home to tell the success of her journey."
PART IV.
The Five-mile Act — Soliloquy — Mr. Heywood's Banishmenl from
Home — His frequent Journeys, Labours, and Dangers — The
Fire of London — Mr. Heyrvood' s second Marriage — Various Jour^
neys — Occasional preaching at Coley Chapel — Preservation and
Labours continued — Sickness — Recovery, and renewed Labours
— Severities increased — Reasons for preaching at his 0W7i House—
Impriso?i7nejit at Leeds — The Co7iventicle Act revised and enlarged
— Mr. Hey wood fined for preaching at Coley Chapel — The spoiU
ing of his Goods — Reproach for the Truth — Hazardous Labotirs
— Divine Enjoyments in Private — Observance of Bartholomew's
Day — Self-examination and Covenant — Remarkable Providence.
The Nonconformist ministers were driven from the
places in which they had laboured, by the Act of Uni-
formity, and they were prevented from exercising their
ministry publicly, by the Conventicle Act ; but their
distress was partially mitigated, by the kindness of
their former hearers, by the pleasure they enjoyed in
teaching them from house to house, and by their do-
mestic comforts in dwelling with their own families.
Such, however, was the spirit of persecution which
then prevailed, that, because these excellent men would
not violate their consciences by perjury, nor in their
worship comply with the mandates of bigotted eccle-
siastics, they were, by an English parliament, pro-
nounced unworthy to partake of the common blessings
of social life. While the plague was raging in the
city of London, and the judgments of an offended
God were threatening the nation, an act was passed to
prevent Nonconformist ministers, except in passing on
lis LIFE or THE llEV. O. HEY WOOD.
the road, from coming within five miles of any parish^
town, or place wherein they had acted as ministers^
or within five miles of any city, town corporate, or
borough, upon forfeiture for every such offence, of the
sum of £40 ; one-third to the king, another to the
poor, and the remaining third to the prosecutor. The
only means by which the rigours of this act could be
avoided, was by taking the following oath : " I, A. B,
do swear, that it is not lawful, upon any pretence what-
soever, to take arms against the king : and I do abhor
the traitorous position, of taking arms by his authority
against his person, or against those that are commis-
sioned by him, in pursuance of such commission : and
that / will not at any time endeavour any alteration of
the government, either in church or state." The Non-
conformist ministers were in general as loyal as most
of his majesty's subjects, many of them had suffered in
his cause, and they were willing to obey his authority
in civil concerns ; but to swear they would not, at any
time, endeavour any alteration in the government of
the church, was to renounce their nonconformity.
When this act came out, those ministers who had any
private property, settled in some obscure village or
market town, that was not a corporation ; whilst those
who had nothing for their support but what they re-
ceived from their people, were obliged to leave their
wives and children, and wander from place to place,
among those who were willing to entertain them,
coming home occasionally in the dead of the night, to
visit their families. The design of this act was to
drive the ministers away from their kind neighbours,
who pitied and relieved them, and thus by poverty,
and pinching hunger force them to compliance ; but
the scheme totally failed, for the cruelty of this severe
law raided them up friends wherever tliey Avent. Their
HIS BANISHMENT FllOM HOME. 119
iVifficulties were truly great, but God mercifully pro-
vided for them, so that scarcely any perished for want,
and though they were often imprisoned for breaking
this law, none were imprisoned for debt.
Mr. Heywood, in a soliloquy on this act, thus ex-
presses himself : " Another step the restless adversary
hath taken, by God's permission, to disquiet poor,
ejected ministers, by casting them out of their own
houses, from their flocks and families, from cities and
towns corporate. This act commences March 24,
1666, a clear evidence, that Satan and his instruments
are unwearied in seeking to wear out the saints of the
Most High. But the enemy has overshot himself, for
this act, above all other means, tendeth much to the
furtherance of the gospel. It produced strange
thoughts of heart, and strong workings of affection at
the separation of nearest and dearest relations ; yet
•even in this it hath done some good, as well as in
many other respects. Instead of one house that we
had to preach in, we have now at least a score. By
travelling abroad our acquaintance is exceedingly en-
larged, and so are our opportunities of doing good :
the persecution of seedsmen is the dispersion of the
seed, which much tends to the propagation of the gospel.
Whereas, before this act, we were confined to our own
houses ; we are now sent to many families with the
word of life, and every honest man's house is our
home. God hath not left us comfortless, but hath
come to us and made us sweet and satisfying disco-
veries of his power and love to us in the houses of our
friends. We find, by delightful experience, that the
Lord is every where by his wisdom, power, faithful-
ness, and loving-kindness, and that it is as short a
way to a throne of grace abroad, as at home : the om-
nipotent arm of a merciful Father can reach us even
120 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
at the ends of the earth. Blessed be God, men cannot
banish God from us, nor us from him. The affliction
is heavy on several of God's servants, and even on thee,
my soul, who hast had thy share of wandering al-
ready: but consider, thou hast wandered from thy
God, and now he causeth thee to wander : a suitable
punishment, wandering for wandering: though men
be cruel, God is righteous. O my soul, couldst thou
be content to enjoy a settled state when God's ordi-
nances are in a great measure withdrawn, and the
gospel seems to stand on the tip toe ? Yet consider,
it is not so bad as it might have been. Thou hast
thy liberty to walk abroad at large, not shut up in a
close prison as many ; thou art not banished into a
foreign land amongst a people of strange speech; thou
art among thy relations and christian friends, and hast
more opportunities among them than before: all which
are advantages to health, estate, and spiritual graces.
Hast thou not become more acquainted with the va-
riety of christian states and experiences, and hath not
this done thee good ? Surely goodness and mercy
have followed me all my days, and in all places. I have
found precious mercies in prohibited places, where
God hath watched over me and been a wall of fire
round about me : never have I experienced such free
liberty and large companies in my own house, as since
1 have been by law excluded from it. O what cannot
God do ! * How unsearchable are his judgments, and
his ways past finding out!' God telleth our wander-
ings, and putteth all our tears into his bottle. My soul,
think it not much to wander, since thy dear Saviour
trod many a weary step for thee : he had not so much
as a place where to lay his head, though Lord of the
whole earth, and King of kings ! Labour to imitate
thy master in going up and down doing good, and
HIS BANISHMENT FllOM HOME. 121
leave some savour of goodness in all places where Pro-
vidence doth cast thee. Few have thy advantages, for
God hath given thee credit, and inclined his people to
desire thy company. O my soul, be faithful in thy
work, and, it may be, God will make thee successful ;
beware of self-conceit and ostentation, observe the calls
of God, beg of him christian prudence, to direct thee
in the disposal of thy journeys, follow the Lord in
duty, and he will follow thee in mercy. Hitherto God
hath secured and assisted thee in all thy ways, and he
will guide thee by his counsel, and afterward bring
thee to glory. There remaineth a rest for wandering
pilgrims, a blessed rest on the bosom of Abraham, a
house not made with hands, a city which cannot be
shaken, and from which thou shalt never be banished.
O blessed day ! O happy rest which remaineth for the
people of God!"
On the 24th of March, 1666, the day appointed for
putting in force the Five-mile Act, Mr. Hey wood
began his " Diary," from which many of the following
extracts are selected, containing a minute account of
his journeys in this interesting part of his life. " This
is a great scattering day," he says, "hundreds of
ministers being by act of parliament banished five
miles from the places where they formerly preached,
if they take not an oath which they generally refuse ;
and this day I came out of Yorkshire to Denton, to
live in exile. O the tears that have been shed for
breaking up families, and separating husbands and
wives, parents and children, pastors and people !" He
now left his two little motherless sons in care of his
faithful servant Martha, and set out on his pilgrimage,
scarcely knowing whither he went. His first stage
was to Halifax, where the day was spent in taking
leave of- his friends and former hearers. On this oc-
193 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYVVOOD.
casion he says, " It melted our hearts, having been
above fifteen years together, and there having been
many endearments betwixt me and my people. The
second day I came to Denton, it was the most tedious
journey I have had that way, which I have gone many
hundred times ; but scarcely ever with so sad a heart,
and in so severe a storm of weather. On Wednesday,
my father Angier and I travelled to Sir John Stanley's,
of Auderley, where I, being called on to go to prayer
in that large family, the first night we came, was
tempted to study and speak handsome words from res-
pect to the company ; but reflecting to whom I prayed,
and that it was no trifling matter, I set myself to the
exercise in serious earnestness, and God helped me to
speak to him devoutly with respect to the state of their
souls and the good of their family." Mr. Heywood
and his father-in-law Angier, spent several days in
various respectable families, in different parts of
Cheshire and Lancashire, were entertained with the
greatest hopitality, and embraced many opportunities
of preaching where they visited. Having much leisure
in this journey, Mr. H. completed his first publication,
entitled, " Heart Treasure."
Notwithstanding the kindness with which they were
every where received and entertained, Mr. Angier ap-
peared out of his element, and longed to return home ;
indeed, he was partly compelled to return, being un-
fitted for much travelling by age and growing in-
firmities. He said to Mr. H. " Come, son, let us trust
God and go home." They returned to Denton, and
Mr. H. soon came to Yorkshire, when he thus wrote :
*' After six weeks wandering abroad to visit friends, I
am at last arrived at my own house. May 3rd, in the
night. I find my family removed, (but I hope it is for
the better,) to a more commodious house at Coley-halJ,
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 123
without land, which as times are, may prove still very-
much in my favour, with less danger, trouble, and
hazard. Being left alone in my new house, I see God
is to be found in all places ; for my soul hath had a
precious season : blessed be God. Many came to see
me, and I spent two Lord's days at home, with a con-
siderable number of Christians, to my abundant com-
fort. They were refreshing days and duties. I preached
to my neighbours several times on the week days, and
observed a solemn fast. May 15, with almost twenty
in my house, and God was wonderfully with us. The
morning after, by sunrise, I left home."
May 21st. I went to Leeds, a prohibited place.
At night, I preached at J. C — 's house, where we had
a very great number to hear. The Lord protected us ;
though a bailiff came to R. Hickson's house, where I
slept, and therefore I chose to leave Leeds. On the
Wednesday night, I went to Hunslet, where I preached
to a full congregation, at J. Beck's house. The Lord
made it a refreshing night to many souls, though our
adversaries watched and gnashed their teeth, when
they saw so many coming together. May 27th, spent
the Lord's day at Penistone in public, without disturb-
ance. There was a numerous congregation from all
parts, and I had great liberty of speech in preaching
and praying ; but not those meltings of heart I have
sometimes enjoyed, nor was I so affected with the state
of souls as my heart desires. On Friday, June 1st, I
returned home in the night, without danger, and spent
the Lord's day there. God helped me in my work,
and preserved me and my company."
The next day, Mr. H. set out on his third journey,
but did not go far from home. On his return, June
5th, about 10 o'clock at night, he was assaulted near
his house by two men. " The one," he says, " was ill
124 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
drunk ; and as they came, they ranted and roared,
saying, ' where art thou, Heywood ? Come, and pay
thy £40.' By the time they had got to the end of the
barn, and not above two or three roods from the house,
I met them ; one had fallen, and the other was lifting
him up. My horse was frightened and would not go
past ; at length having got him up, the man came to-
wards me, and said, 'he M^ould see who I was ?' but
the other held him off, and said, ' let him alone, come
by, friend ;' so I went by. But what would they have
done had they known who it was ? God held me from
them, for I had not my own horse, and had on a grey
coat, and did not speak, for they would have known
my voice. Blessed be the keeper of Israel, who hath
preserved my going out, and my coming in to this day."
He might at this time with propriety have adopted
most of the expressions of the Apostle Paul, when de-
scribing his labours and sufferings in the cause of Christ.
He was "in labours more abundant," and though
mercifully preserved from the horrors of a prison, yet
he was *' in deaths oft, in journeyings often, in perils
of robbers, in perils by his own countrymen, in perils
in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils among
false brethren ; in weariness and painfulness, in watch-
ings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in
cold and nakedness."
His diary shows how ready he was to expose him-
self to danger for the good of souls : "June l6th," he
says, " upon earnest solicitation, I went to Bramley, in
the night, about seven miles : God graciously preserved
me. I preached three times on the Lord's day, and was
much refreshed ; the hearts of the people were evident-
ly affected, and I hope some good was done. I visited
friends by the way, and returned home on Monday
night in srfety. The night after, I went into Lau-
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 125
cashire, and kept the sabbath with a considerable num-
ber in the house wherein I was born. On Monday, I
again travelled with my honoured father into Cheshire.
At night we lodged at Dunham, with my lord Dela-
mere, where we were nobly treated ; yet I thought
home and heaven were better than all this. I had af-
fecting considerations of the excellency of grace beyond
all this worldly pomp and splendour. Returned to
Yorkshire, July 17th ; and afterwards went into Lan-
cashire, and preached ^gain in the house wherein I
was born; a great number flocked thither, so that
there was not sufficient room for the people within
doors. God made that (July 29th,) a blessed day to
me. On the Monday night, at Bolton, Tuesday morn-
ing, near Bolton, in the evening, at Little Lever, and
on Wednesday, at Breightmit, I had opportunities of
preaching to considerable numbers. Aug. 6th, in the
night came to my house once more. The two Lord's
days I was at home, I spent with much enlargement,
and had above forty persons each day, when God so
concealed us that we were scarcely suspected, nor did
my enemies know I was at home."
Being in constant danger, by residing near his late
charge, he had serious thoughts of removing. " I had
nearly determined to remove into Lancashire," he ob-
serves, " that I might be quietly at home, and have the
benefit of a good schoolmaster for my sons ; but my
kind neighbours and hearers will not suffer it, they have
prevailed on me to stay, and prevented my removal,
which may be for my comfort in the issue. I preach in
my own house three times every week, besides some
work abroad. We have had more solemn and numer-
ous meetings than formerly, almost 100 persons at
once. We have a more private place than before.
126 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
where I can sing and speak as loud as I please, with-
out fear of being overheard. I remained at home two
Lord's days, with much enjoyment and safety : blessed
be my God. I went according to appointment to
Penistone, Nov. 3rd, 1666. After this journey I stayed
at home two Lord's days, very comfortably and quietly,
the Lord watching over me ; I had considerable num-
bers both on the Lord's days and week days, and
preached to those who came openly in the day time.
I hear it was rumoured abroad that there are great
meetings at Coley-hall, and a person told our neigh-
bours they were resolved to catch me ; yet hitherto
God hath preserved and prevented me." He afterwards
went abroad, and returned home, Dec. 19th. " Then,"
he says, " I stayed at home three Lord's days, followed
my studies, preached thrice a week, had a large audi-
tory, kept a fast, and God was very gracious to me all
the time I was at home. Having gone again into
Lancashire, I found that there are four persons under
convictions through my ministry, of whom I never
had heard before. When I came home, I found my
son John very ill of the small pox. He speaks far be-
yond his age, and though in pain, he saith, his hea-
venly Father takes care of him. I continued at home
two Lord's days, and was helpful to my family and
many others, who flocked to my house, as doves to
their windows, to the nimiber of a hundred at a time,
at least ; God preserving us, who in his own due time
did also graciously restore my son John, so that I kept
a day of thanksgiving, and had several friends. It
was a good day."
Scarcely had the dreadful effects of the plague ter-
minated in London, and the persons who had fled, re-
turned to their habitations, when the city was visited
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 137
by another awful scourge — the fire of London. This
terrible conflagration began about midnight, Sept. 2nd,
not far from the tower of London. Three or four days
it continued its ravages, which no power of man could
check, and at last it suddenly ceased, as if by a com-
mand from heaven. It consumed eighty ninp churches,
most of the city gates, the Guildhall, many public
structures, hopitals, schools, libraries, a vast number,
of stately edifices, thirteen thousand two hundred
dwelling houses, and four hundred streets. The ruins
of the city extended over four hundred and thirty six
acres. " It was a sight," says Mr. Baxter, " that
might have given any man a lively sense of the vanity
of this world, and all the wealth and glory of it, and
of the future conflagration of the world ; to see the
flames mount up towards heaven, and proce^ed so furi-
ously without restraint ; to see the streets filled with
people astonished, who had scarce sense left them to
lament their own calamity ; to see the fields filled with
heaps of goods ; to see sumptuous buildings, curious
rooms, costly furniture, and household stuff", yea, ware-
houses, and furnished shops, and libraries, &c. all on a
flame, and none durst come near to take any thing ;
to see the king and nobles ride about the streets, be-
holding all these desolations, and none able to afford
the least relief; to see the air, as far as could be beheld,
so filled with the smoke, that the sun shone through
it with a colour like blood, yea, even when he was
setting, it so appeared to them that dwelt in the west
side of the city. But the most doleful sight was after-
wards, to see what a ruinous confused place the city
was, by chimneys and steeples only standing in the
midst of cellars and heaps of rubbish, so that it was
hard to know where the streets had been, and it was
128 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
dangerous for a long time to pass through the ruins,
because of vaults with fire in them. No man that
seeth not such a thing, can have a right apprehension
of the clreadfulness of it." *
Most of the former part of the year 1667, Mr. H.
spent in occasional journeys to preach the gospel of the
grace of God to perishing sinners, in various parts of
Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Cheshire.
" May 23rd," he says, " I took a journey with my
family, that is, my children and servant-maid, into
Lancashire. The Wednesday after, I united with my
father, Angier, at Denton, on a public day of thanks-
giving, being the anniversary of the king's return ;
and it was a delightful day. June 10th, I came home
again with my family to Coley-hall. June 19th, upon a
special call, I travelled to Sheffield, to keep a fast at Mr.
Burbeck's house. I preached and went to prayer, but
found not my wonted enlargement and assistance ; as
to personal matters, I was in some measure helped,
but as it respected public concernments, I was much
straitened. It was a solemn day, and there were ten
ministers present ; good old Mr. Wales f concluded.
* Narrative of ]Mr. Baxter's Life and Times, by Sylvester,
Part III. page ly.
+ IMr. Wales was a native of Idle, in Yorkshire, and when he
had finished his studies, settled at Pudsey, a small chapelry in the
same parish. His labours at this place were very great, and
though his ministry was not blessed to his own people as he de-
sired and others expected, yet he was made exceedingly useful
to strangers who came to hear him, and in neighbouring places
where he frequently preached. He had many lucrative offers
from other places, but nothing could prevail with him to leave
his people, for whose spiritual welfare he was exti'emely solicitous,
till he was driven from them by the Bartholomew Act, after having
faithfully served them fifty-five yeai's. He died at Leeds, May
11, 1669, above eighty years of age. His motto was, " Less than
the least of all saints."
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 129
There was also an excellent minister, a Mr. Sylvester,*
of Mansfield, whom the Lord did very wonderfully
carry out in the duty of prayer. Blessed be God for
that day."
Mr. Hey wood had remained in a state of widowhood
above six years ; but having formed a connexion with
Miss Abigail Crompton, of Breightmet, near Bolton,
not far from his own native place, they were married
by Mr. Hyde, at Salford chapel, June 37th, 1667- On
this event, he thus v/rites : " In this wandering state,
God hath added another mercy to what he had pre-
viously granted — for he hath found me out a suitable
partner. Our union was brought about through many
interruptions, and the hand of God was evidently and
eminently seen in the affair.
This union, under the circumstances in which it took
place, was a convincing evidence of their mutual affec-
tion, and of their strong confidence in God. They
were happily adapted for each other in reference to
age, disposition, and religion, Mrs. H. proved what
her husband expected — a prudent, faithful, and affec-
tionate wife to him, and a tender mother to his sons.f
Mr. Heywood remained about six weeks in Lancashire
among his own and his wife's relatives, and, " July
* Mr. Sylvester was ejected from Gunnerly, in Lincolnshire,
and became domestic chaplain to John White, Esq. of IMansfield.
He went to London after the great fire in 16G6, and was intro-
duced to the celebrated Richard Baxter, who entertained for him
the highest possible esteem. They preached together in the
Charter-house Yard with much harmony : and when Mr. Baxter
died, he left him his IManuscripts, some of which he edited. He
died at the age of seventy- one, on the Lord's day evening, Jan. 25,
I7O8. See Wilson's History of Dissenting Churches, vol. ii.
pages 108—111.
t She survived Mr. Heywood five years, and died at North-
owram, June 12, 1707, in the 'JGth year of her age, leaving be-
hind her an excellent character for hospitality and religion.
VOL. I. K
130 LIFE OF THE llKV. O. HEYW007).
25th," he says, " I brought my wife into Yorkshire, to
Coley-hal]. Some friends went along with us to Middle-
ton, and others met us at Littleborougli : but I could
not suffer many to go, because of my circumstances.
We arrived in safety, and found all well. I preached
in my own house on the Lord's day, had a considerable
congregation, and God assisted and protected."
" After we had been a fortnight at Coley-hall, I took
a journey with my wife, and came back August I6tb.
I went from home again August 23rd, and having
preached nine times in seven days, returned. Blessed
be God for work, and help, and hopes of a reward in
due time. Sept. 19th, set forward on ray journey to-
wards Lancashire, where I preached with Mr. Pendle-
bury,* at Cockey chapel. Oct. 24th, we returned to
Coley-hall, where we found my son John very ill of
the measles, so that that very daj% neighbours were
called in to see him die ; but God restored him. Eli-
* I\Ir. Pendlebury, though not so generally known as IMr. Hay-
wood, was a most excellent man and useful preacher. He was a
native of the parish of Bury, Lancashire. After having attended the
grammar school, at Bury, he went to Christ's College, Cambridge,
and when he had taken his degree of jM.A. he returned home, and
preached for twelve months at Horwich chapel, in Dean parish.
In 1651, he removed to Holcomb, in his native parish, whence he
was ejected by the Bartholomew Act. He continued preaching
amongst his own people, and in neighbouring places, as he had
opportunities, and was mercifully preserved from many of those
outward sufferings which some of his brethren experienced for con-
science and truth's sake. He laboured amongst his beloved people
about forty-four years, and died in peace, June 18th, ] 695. His
memory is still revered in that neighbourhood. His works are :
An Exposition of the Assembly's Catechism ; A Treatise on Tran-
substantiation ; A Treatise on the Sacrifice of the ]Mass ; The
Barren Fig-Tree ; Invisible Realities ; the Books Opened. A
few of his Sermons, copied from MSS. still in preservation, toge-
ther with an account of his Life, may be seen in the " Select
Nonconformists' Remains."
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. ISl
ezer had also passed through that disease in our ab-
sence, and Martha, our maid had been near death;
but blessed be our God, who hath not made a breach
upon us, nor laid them all under sickness at once, and
hath now wonderfully raised them. O for a thankful
heart ! Friday week, after our return, we observed a
solemn day of thanksgiving for the recovery of my
family, wherein God graciously assisted such as helped
me on that occasion."
Mr. Heywood sometimes occupied his old pulpit,
during Mr. Hoole's ministry, at Coley chapel, when he
was supplying elsewhere and had left the place vacant.
"Jan. 5th, 1668," Mr. Heywood says, " I preached at
Coley chapel, in public, Mr. Hoole having given notice
the Lord's day before that he should be absent ; and I
took the advantage of the vacancy. We concluded on
it only the evening before, and the morning was so ex-
ceedingly windy, that few could hear the bell ; but in
the afternoon, there was a very great assembly. The
Lord graciously assisted, and it was a good day : as
for the effects of it, the will of the Lord be done." —
*' July 4th, (1669) I had resolved to preach at home;
but Coley being destitute, they opened the doors and
rung the bell, where I preached all day without inter-
ruption. There was a numerous congregation, though
I did not know of preaching till after eight o'clock that
morning. Blessed be God for this liberty. Sept. 19th,
this Lord's day again, in the absence of Mr. Hoole, I
preached at Coley chapel. O what a good day it was,
and what a sudden congregation was collected ! We
had great peace, notwithstanding many threatenings
and fears."
" Jan. 24th, 1668, 1 went, according to appointment,
towards Bramley, to preach there on the Lord's day ;
but E. H. came to my house to prevenl me, because
K 2
132 IJFE or THE TvEV. O. HEY WOOD.
Mr. Hardcastle* had been taken at a meeting at Leeds
the Tuesday night before, and they were afraid of
danger. Providence so ordered it that I had set off,
and we missed each other. He found me at Pudsey,
and we resolved to keep to our purpose. I lodged at
Mr. Sales's-f that night, and on Saturday went to
Bramley. Preached there on the Lord's day publicly,
where was a numerous and crowded congregation.
We had peace all the day, and it was a pleasant day.
On Monday I went to Holbeck, and preached there
that night at E. Wildman's house, and had a great
auditory, I purposed going to Leeds, but a friend
sent me a letter, to inform me a constable and others
were watching for me there ; this diverted my course
to Beeston, then to Morley, where I lodged at Mr.
Dawson's house, and preached to a large company
which had been quickly assembled. Feb. 5. I jour-
neyed to Wakefield, to visit Mr. Hardcastle in the
House of Correction, sent there for holding a con-
venticle. The day after I dined with him in his de-
grading prison, and we had much conversation toge-
ther. The two following Lord's days I preached in
my house, but it could not contain the number of
hearers that attended, because there was no preaching
* ]Mr. Hardcastle was ejected from Bramham, in Yorkshire.
He was a man of good abilities and a bold spirit, fearing no dan-
ger; but of great moderation and Catholicism. He frequently
suffered imprisonment for his Nonconformity in various parts of
the kingdom. He became the pastor of a Baptist church at
Bristol, and died there in I6'j9. See Nonconformist's IMemorial,
vol. iii. p. 426 and 526.
t ]\Ir. Sales was born at Pudsey, he had exercised his ministry
at Lincoln, Thornton chapel, and Leeds. After his ejectment,
he lived at his native place, and was a great comfort to old Mr.
Wales, the minister of the place. He preached much in the
neighbourhood, till disabled by a lingering disease. He died,
April 21st, 1679.
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 133
at the chapel. Both afternoons we were in the hall,*
which was filled with hundreds of people. I was
much affected to see so many of my old hearers in a
private place. Blessed be God for these precious sea-
sons. I preached at home on the day called Easter
Sunday, God helped graciously. Though the consta-
ble hath a warrant to search my house for a conven-
ticle, yet he came not. I spent the next Lord's day
at J. Brooksbank's, being persuaded to it, because of a
proclamation the day before at Halifax against con-
venticles ; but at four o'clock in the afternoon, I
preached at home, and had a full auditory."
" April 12th. They having no minister, I preached
at Cockey chapel. There was a numerous congre-
gation, and God granted us liberty and peace, though
the High Sheriff and his father-in-law, Dr. Bridge-
man, Dean of Chester, were not far off, and the trum-
peter came at noon to an alehouse near the chapel.
Blessed be God ! The Lord's day after, I preached
publicly again at Cockey in the afternoon, though a
conformist preached in the morning : but he was
willing I should share with him in the work. At
night, I preached at J. Pilkington's."
During his many wanderings and frequent labours,
Mr. Hey wood enjoyed a state of good bodily health ;
but on his return home from this journey, he was
threatened with a severe fit of illness, which the Lord
mercifully abated and speedily removed. " Returning
from Lancashire," he says in a soliloquy, " April 30th,
the Lord visited me with a sore sickness, which began
as if it would terminate in a violent fever ; but in about
five days, he blessed the use of means for the recovery
of this poor frail body. Health itself is a rich blessing;
what would many give for the possession of this jewel ?
* He now lived in part of Coley-hall,
1^4> LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
Other outward comforts cannot compensate for the
want of it. Many are languishing with pining sick-
ness or tormenting pain, so that from morning to night
God is bringing them to an end. But thy God, O my
soul, hath cased thee in a healthful body, so that thou
mayest follow thy work. Except a little head ache,
this frame hath had no sickness these fourteen years.
Blessed be my God, who causeth the voice of joy and
health in the habitation of his unworthy servant ; and
now w^hen a sickness must needs come, there have been
choice ingredients mixed with it. God brought me
home ; why was I not seized when abroad ? I was no
Lord's day out of employment, and had many friends
to contribute their best assistance ; but above all, the
Lord was ready to save me. O my soul, the Lord
hath dealt gently with thee ; not because thou wast
better than others, but he saw thou couldst not so well
endure a tedious affliction. O w^hat a good God do
we serve ! He doth not chasten us beyond our strength,
but suits the burden to the back ; .in the midst of judg-
ment he remembers mercy. ' As a father pitieth his
children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.' This
God whom we serve secures us from a thousand deaths
and dangers, bestows upon us many mercies, and is a
present help in time of trouble. He dealeth not so
graciously with all men, nor so gently with all his
people as with me. And now, my soul, since God hath
placed thee under the law of kindness, do thou study
and practise the law of thankfulness ; thou hast reaped
the fruits of God's mercy, let him reap the fruits of thy
duty. Give thy body to God, who hath redeemed it
by his Son's blood, and hath now again redeemed it
by his powerful hand. Let the strength thou hast re-
ceived be laid out to edify the church. The last fever
thou hadst, God raised thee up to do him considerable
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 135
service in converting souls. O that it may be so now !
May this recovery be a sign that I shall go up to the
house of the Lord ! We kept a day of thanksgiving in
private ; but when shall we sing songs to the stringed
instruments in the house of the Lord ? O that such a
blessed day might come. What a sweet revival would
it be, even as life from the dead ! Then would my life
be a life indeed ! What is my life worth but to glori-
fy my God, and further his work in the world ? May
I not do something towards promoting these great ends
in ray present condition ? Such as improve not small
talents will not improve larger opportunities of serving
God. O my soul, engage in thy work more earnestly,
and do something notable for him who hath dealt so
graciously with thee." ^
Having been favoured with restoring mercies, we
find him diligently employed in his Master's work, not-
withstanding the difficulties attending it in those times.
" May 22nd," he says, " we went to Bramhope, to visit
an afflicted gentlewoman there, my lord Fairfax's sis-
ter. From thence we went to W. Thompson's, near
Headingley, where I was to preach, and there we met
with a remarkable providence. One Mr. Morrice, a
constable, observing many people go, went to Mr.
Wade, a justice of the peace, who refused to go with
him ; but he prevailed with Mr. Foxcroft, another
justice and alderman of Leeds, who came and brought
other two men with them. They knocked at the door
as we were concluding, which being perceived, I was
conveyed by a private way into the barn ; the four
men went in, and the multitude of people rushed out
and went away. Those that stayed were pressed to
give in their names, which was refused, and after the
men had stayed about an hour they went away. They
136 Liri: or the kev. o. heywood.
made a slight search, but I was gone out by a back
way to S. Ellison's, near Bramley, where we remained
till Wednesday. Aug. 8th, my wife and I went to
Pudsey, according to my promise, but we were in-
formed that a bailiff of Morley had been with C. Smith,
and they liad consulted together. It was suspected
they would disturb us and apprehend me, and I made
full account of it ; but God held them off, so that we
enjoyed a very agreeable and quiet sabbath. Old Mr.
Wales was providentially there, though sent for that
day to his dying wife. There was a multitude of
people from all parts. The gentleman of the place,
Mr. Wilner, invited me to preach, and entertained me.
I returned safely home, blessed be my God."
Mr. Heywood continued actively employed the re-
mainder of this year, 1669, and experienced a continu-
ance of the divine protection. March 28th, I preached
at Hunslet chapel, where there was a numerous con-
gregation, both within doors and without, such a multi-
tude I have seldom seen. God cleared my way regu-
larly for preaching there, though another person was
designed for that day. He protected me graciously,
assisted me in my work, and made it a comfortable
day, blessed be God. June 26th, I preached at Morley.
When I was in the pulpit singing a psalm, in comes
Mr. Broadhead, vicar of Batley, to the clerk, and bade
him tell Mr. H. to come out and let him have his own
pulpit, and then hasted away. He left his gown at a
house, took horse and went to Batley, and told justice
Copley what a multitude of people there was at Morley
hearing a Nonconformist ; he took no notice, but let
us alone, and so through God's mercy we enjoyed the
day quietly ; and it was a good day, blessed be God.
The Lord's day after, Mr. Copley took Mr. Hancock
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 137
at Alvertliorpe, near Wakefield, and hath sent him
with two more, prisoners to York Castle, this adds to
the mercy, that I escaped their hands."
Government perceiving that the conventicle act was
much evaded, a proclamation was issued to enforce the
laws against the Nonconformists, and the judges in
their circuits gave a strict charge to the juries to the
same purpose. " Methinks," says Mr. H. " God and
man are close at work. The whole creation seems to
fight against a rebellious kingdom, and yet men are
maintaining a desperate combat against the Lord of
hosts. God hath sent lately a terrible motion of the
earth, July 7th, and a powerful wind, July 25th, which
hath done much injury to the corn ; yet a proclama-
tion was sent forth July l6th, against the Nonconfor-
mist private meetings, and a strict charge was given
against us by the judges at the Assizes. Shall the
heavens rend with tliunder, the earth tremble, and
God's judgments threaten, and my poor soul not be af-
fected ? O heart ! more prodigious than all these pro-
digies ! O what a wretched heart have I ! Is not
God coming against us like an armed man ? Lord,
what wilt thou do with England ? Hath not the de-
stroying angel of the plague done his errand effectu-
ally ? Hath not the sword eaten flesh and drunk
blood till it is ahnost glutted ? Did not the fire of
God's vengeance find plenty of fuel in London's streets?
Surely God hath been very angry, yet we may justly
fear that these are only drops before the shower, the
beginning of sorrow, and prologues of ruin. The Lord
in his infinite mercy prevent the dreadful day of
England's downfall ! Methinks the Lord makes sad
approaches towards us. The heavens grow black over
our heads, the earth trembles under our feet, the air is
infested with astonishing tempests. We have had a
138 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
famine of spiritual food, but that hath not been regard-
ed, yea, men have rejoiced that the earth-tormenting
prophets have been silenced ; but vt^hat the Lord doth
mean by this earthquake himself only knows. It is fit
language for earthly men, who make this earth their
heaven. Ah Lord I when shall men's hearts quake?
O that sin might be shaken away ! But profaneness
abounds beyond measure, and men are striving which
shall be at hell first. It is doubtful whether God's
strange work, or men's horrid impieties shall be the
greater prodigy ! Surely our sins are almost ripe, and
and the sickle is at hand to cut down this sinful na-
tion. Lord, prevent it by disposing us to a true and
timely repentance, that England may live in thy sight.
Are there such sins in our land as the Lord will not
pardon ? Is there no balm in Gilead for a wounded,
dying kingdom? It is true, our iniquities testify
against us, but do it for thy name's sake, O Lord.
What a mercy would it be, to see burning and shining
lights in our candlesticks, converting work revived,
believers united in heart and judgment, discipline estab-
lished, men's inventions abolished, profaneness punish-
ed, holiness promoted, and in all these, God glorified,
souls edified, the kingdom of Christ advanced here in
grace, and the kingdom of glory hastened !"
Mr. H. was fully satisfied respecting the propriety
of his conduct in prosecuting his ministerial work,
though it was in opposition to the laws and proclama-
tions of the civil authorities. His determination was
not the hasty result of a momentary impulse, but of
deliberate investigation relative to the path of duty,
as appears from the following paper, dated Nov. 23rd,
1669:
" Reasons why I keep at home and preach on
Lord's days, though not constantly. Not that I despise
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 139
the public ordinances, or cannot hear the sermons of
conformists ; but,
" 1. Because God hath given me a call to preach ;
and in my ordination I solemnly promised before many
witnesses to continue in my duty, notwithstanding all
trouble and persecution. Now, I dare not play fast
and loose with God and my conscience ; and if men
cast me out, I ought to do my work more privately,
though I would study to do it as prudently as the Lord
enables me. — 2. Because I had a clear call to preach
at Coley ; indeed God spake to me with an imperious
voice when he sent me hither, for with my good will I
would not have come, and he has continued me here
almost twenty years, hath blessed my poor labours
here, and created such a special relation between me
and many of the people as no power of man can dis-
solve. — 3. Because there are some who cannot be satis-
fied to hear in public ; though I have used several
means for their satisfaction, yet they will spend their
time in private, and are in danger of mispending time
or being seduced to ways of error, since Satan and his
instruments are busy to draw off unstable souls from
the good ways of God. — 4. Because the spiritual court
(as they call it) did excommunicate me, after which
Dr. Hook sent to me to desire me to forbear coming to
church, and N. Whiteley would have put me out of
Coley chapel ; after this, I judged God called me to
improve my time in private, which I had no thoughts
of, till I was persecuted and driven out by men's vio-
lence, — 5. Because God hath exceedingly satisfied,
quickened, and assisted my spirit in private. Several
years togther I have spent the sabbath with about ten,
or twelve, or more persons ; and O what a time of love
hath it been ! I never met with so much of God's pre-
sence in all my life ; many a time I have thanked God
140 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
for the occasion of withdrawment, for he did me good
against my will. — 6. Because God hath made use of
me to do good to others. He hath helped me by this
means to lay out my poor talent for the good of souls,
and hath not altogether withdrawn his blessing from
my endeavours ; and if I be instrumental in gaining
one soul to God, I have part of my reward : this is my
main study and design, though dead, to make souls
live. — 7. Because there is great need of all God's har-
vest-men to be at work, for the harvest is great and
the labourers are few. I say not but there may be
honest preaching of sound truths in some public places,
though in too many we find mere quibbling, great
deadness, little good done, and profaneness much
abounds ; God calls all that can, to put out a helping
hand in this great decay of religion. — 8. Because God
hath smiled upon us in his gracious providence. Hi-
therto I have not been imprisoned, nor questioned; all
designs against my liberty have proved abortive ; no
weapon against me hath prospered. Some who have
done little have been more molested, but God hath se-
cured me. This, in addition to former arguments, is
an encouraging one."
The proclamation of government and charges of the
judges had partly the desired eifect of renewing the
spirit of persecution against the Nonconformists, and
Mr. Hey wood soon felt the consequences. March 14,
1670, he was apprehended at Leeds at a private meet-
ing and carried before the mayor, who treated him
roughly, and ordered him to be confined in a dungeon
called Capon-hall. He asked him if he had not been
in their hands before. Mr. H. replied, " Your wor-
ship may be mistaken as to my person ; I am no mover
of sedition ; in political concerns, I do not interfere ; all
I seek is to bring sinners to repentance, and thus pro-
HIS BAXISHMEXT ipEOM HOME. 141
mote the spiritual and eternal welfare of my fellow
creatures. I was never imprisoned but once, and that
was for the king, in the attempt made in his favour by-
Sir George Booth." By the mediation of some of the
respectable inhabitants of the town, he was set at li-
berty the next day. The following are his reflections
on this circumstance : " God hath been admired in my
liberty in his work and worship ; but, lest I should
presume, he hath once given me over into the hands of
men. I was committed by the mayor of Leeds to the
common prison, where I lodged all night and the day
after, the day forty years on which I was baptized.
By the interposition of some friends I was released,
though about fifty persons who were there, were fined
five shillings each, at the sessions. Reflect, O my soul,
on this critical part of thy life. What were thy thoughts
in that imprisoned state, and what useful meditations
canst thou frame thereon? Though the place was
barren, yet it is a fruitful subject ; and were thy heart
right thou mightest find it enlarged amidst thoughts
on a prison. O my soul, remember the affliction and
the misery, the wormwood and the gall, that thou
mayest be humbled by repentance, and raised in thank-
fulness and new obedience. God was to be seen in
that business. It was he that led me into trouble, and
he alone that brought me out, whoever were the in-
struments. How secure and carnally confident were
we ! Who ever expected a surprise ? When the oflScers
were in the house, we could scarcely believe our own
eyes ! We had enjoyed a long day of liberty, dreamed
of impunity, and thought none durst meddle with us.
Lord, when things smile most, make my heart most
jealous ; and when all looks black, raise within me
some glimmerings of hope ; let me be neither fearless
in the best, nor hopeless in the worst estate. I was
142 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
taken and put into another's custody when I thought
least of it, and set at liberty suddenly and unexpectedly;
God was good in both. O my soul, learn God's mind
in all this. Did constables lead thee away in the night
with lanterns? So they did thy dear Saviour, who
was a prisoner, and endured worse things for thee.
Did the magistrate give thee sharp reviling words ?
Yet not such bitter language as was given to Christ.
Did they lead thee to be imprisoned? He was led
away to be crucified. O how small a matter is this to
suffer for such a Saviour ! How many of God's ser-
vants have suffered much more, and few that have
been imprisoned have come off upon such easy terms.
God put me into the fire and quickly caught me out.
Lord, now I am at liberty, let me be thy servant, cast
down my vain imaginations, knock off the bolts of sin
that I may work for thee; take off the fetters of worldly
entanglements, that I may walk to thy glory ; open to
me the iron gates of difficulties, that I may go with
freedom among thy saints to praise thy name. Lord,
let my release be a presage of a general jubilee to thy
silenced ministers, and oppressed people. God execut-
eth judgments for the oppressed ; he looseth the pri-
soners, and raiseth up them that are bowed down. It is
as easy for God to take off the restraints from the Non-
conformist ministry, as to release one from imprison-
ment. Surely the hand of my God hath been upon
me for good. It was his work to moderate the officers
in the surprisal, and soften the jailor's heart towards
me in my confinement. He sent me many loving visitors,
concealed the worst from my affectionate wife, in-
clined the hearts of the chief people in the town to in-
tercede for me, bowed the mayor's heart to accept their
entreaty and treated me with respect, prevented snares
in my release, and brought me off with honour. It
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 143
was the Lord's doing, and is marvellous in our eyes ;
yea, in the eyes of very many. Lord, affect my heart
with these strange providences, and produce the like
deliverance for thy church. Thou showest us in this,
what thou canst do in raising up instruments, chang-
ing men's minds, succeeding efforts, and restoring per-
sons and things to their due and best settlement."
At the close of the preceding year, it was reported
that the king was inclined to favour the Nonconfor-
mists, and some of the London ministers presented an
address on the subject. His majesty received them
graciously, and promised to do the utmost to get them
admitted into the establishment ; but this, like some of
his former promises, was soon forgotten. Instead of
an enlargement of their privileges, the Act against con-
venticles was renewed and made more severe than be-
fore. It was enacted, " That all clauses in this act shall
be construed most largely and beneficially for the sup-
pression of conventicles, and for the justification and
encouragement of all persons to be employed in the
execution thereof ; and that no warrant nor mittimus
shall be made void or reversed for any default in the
form, and if a person flee from one county or corpora-
tion to another, his goods and chattels shall be seizable
wherever they are found." By this act, the most in-
famous characters were encouraged to become inform-
ers ; multitudes of perjuries were the result, to obtain
the rewards ; convictions took place without juries ;
heavy penalties were inflicted; houses were plundered,
and the peaceable inhabitants disturbed any hour of
the day or night, if some malicious neighbour pretend-
ed there was a religious meeting. Well might Mr.
Heywood exclaim : " Behold a disappointment ! We
looked for peace, but no good came ; we hoped for en-
largement, but behold restraint ; God's anger may be
144 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEVWOOD.
seen in man's displeasure. A fourth act of parliament
against the poor Nonconformists is come forth, laying
heavy j)enalties on all that are found at private meet-
ings, which are called seditious conventicles : viz. five
shillings each for the people, £20. for the minister,
£20. for the house, £lOO. for a justice of the peace if he
do not prosecute, and £5. for an inferior officer; besides
such circumstances as bespeak it artfully and wickedly
framed, and such as leave us no evasions. This takes
place May 10th, 1670, and hires the vilest wretches to
turn informers, in hopes of the third part of all the
fines ; five persons make the meeting unlawful. Lord,
whither will the rage of men transport them ? How
long shall the wicked triumph? They have driven us
into corners by the Act of Uniformity, and will they
not let us alone in them ? Did they not banish us
from our habitations by the Five-mile Act, and is that
deficient ? Did they not make one Act against conven-
ticles, and was not that sufficient for our punishment
but it must be enforced by another for the same pur-
pose ? Do they not suspect the validity of the former,
why then superadd another ? Do they not see that
no weapon formed against God's people prospers? Do
not the Jews at length discern, that rolling a great
stone, sealing it, and setting a watch, are but making
it as sure as men can ? God can invalidate men's
power. Who ever hardened himself against God and
prospered ? Where are the proud persecutors of for-
mer ages, and the edicts of emperors engraven in brass
and executed with blood ? Blessed be God, the Lord
Jesus reigns, and will reign till he has made all his
enemies his footstool. They are so far from hindering,
that they shall help Christ up to his throne. The
wrath of man shall praise God, and the remainder he
will restrain ; the more unreasonable men grow the
HIS BANISHMENT FllOM HOME. 145
more God will appear, and the more equal will his
ways of justice be found. O my soul, mourn for thy
sins that have procured these acts, and pity those that
have framed them. Alas ! that swearing, blasphemy,
drunkenness, and sabbath-breaking should find so little
discouragement by the laws of man, and that all their
care is to suppress religious exercises. Lord, open
rulers' eyes, to see that true religion is the support,
and profaneness the undermining of the nation."
The severity of these measures did not cause Mr.
Hey wood to desist from his zealous labours, but made
him the more indefatigable in his exertions, though,
for a season, at least, more careful. " May 8th," he
mentions, " I preached at Coley-hall. We had a large
auditory and a delightful day, reckoning it to be a
farewell, because of the new Conventicle Act. On
Tuesday, we kept a private fast at Mr. Dawson's : it
was a wonderful and heart-melting season. On Thurs-
day, we kept a fast at Mr. Ramsden's. The Lord's
day after, I preached at Dinah Tetlow's, where we had
just the number. Monday, we kept a private fast at
J. Priestley's. Tuesday and Thursday, I preached to
the appointed number. Afterwards I preached several
times in the week at home, admitting only four at a
time ; and sometimes I preached abroad, and in friends'
houses."
It has already been seen, that Mr. H. sometimes
preached at Coley chapel, in the occasional absence of
Mr. Hoole, without interruption ; but his adversaries
could not be content to let him enjoy such opportu-
nities with impunity. " May 22nd," he records, " as
I was rising out of my bed, my servant came to inform
me, that there were two men desiring to speak to me.
Their business was to ask me, if I would venture to
preach in the chapel, Mr. Hoole being absent, a;id, no
VOL. I. L
146 IJFE OF THE llEV. O. ITEYWOOIT.
notice having been given of a vacancy, many of the
people would come and be disappointed. At first, I
absolutely refused. They told me they should be sorry
to bring me into trouble, but if I were willing, the
chapel doors should be opened, and the bell rung as
usual. I hesitated a while, consulted some neigh-
bours, begged direction of God, and on the follow-
ing considerations, at length consented : — They were
my ancient people ; I had been forcibly thrust from
them ; the spirits of opposers seemed to be now much
moderated ; it being ^Vhitsuntide, if there were no ser-
vice, the sabbath would be profaned ; many persons
accused us for not being bold enough to ventui'e upon
duty where there was the appearance of danger ; and,
in a word, I considered the example of the Lord Jesus
Christ, who would go into Judea, though he knew the
Jews there sought to kill him. But this consideration
had the greatest weight on me — the souls of poor sin-
ners, said I within myself, are of such value as should
induce us to hazard all, where there is the prospect of
being useful to them ; and who knows, but God may
have designs of mercy to accomplish on some this day?
Upon this, I went to the chapel about nine o'clock,
and having entered the pulpit, I read some portions
of scripture, and after a psalm was sung, I prayed and
preached without interruption. My text was. Judges
V. 31, ' Let them that love him be as the sun when he
goeth forth in his might.' Soon after one o'clock, in
the afternoon, we assembled again ; but before the
service was concluded, Mr. S. Ellis brought the church-
warden and overseer threatening to fine them £5.
each if they refused to act. The officers seemed to dis-
like the business, but S. E. pushed them on before him.
One of them was so awed and ashamed that he was
seized with a fit of sickness, sunk down into a seat>
ItiS fiANlSHMEN'r PROM HOME. 14T
and could not lift up his head, nor give any account of
the persons present* The informer walked from place
to place in the chapel, looking at the people to see who
they were, and now and then fixing his eyes upon me,
but saying nothing. This occasioned some distraction
to us, but I was enabled to go on, requesting the atten-
tion of the congregation, and desiring them to look in
their bibles for the proofs to which I referred for the
confirmation of what I delivered. When the officers
went out, S. E. sent one of them in again to take down
names. He returned himself, and walked through the
chapel, sometimes standing at the end of the seats,
looking people in the face, and then going out into the
yard to complete his list of names. But though the
place was filled with his own neighbours, he and the
officers were so confused, that they could not make out
the names of more than ten persons in the congregation.
About eight days after, Mr. White and Mr. Copley,
two justices, took my affair into consideration. The
informer was present, asking the officers from time to
time. Did you not see such a person there ? But of the
many hundreds who were in the chapel on the day
above mentioned, still only ten could be nominated."
" July 13th, J. M. constable, T. H. and S. W. came
to make distress on my goods, with three porters to
carry them away. The constable took hold of the bed
whereon I used to lie, and putting off his hat, said, I
seize on this bed for his Majesty's use. I told them it
was sufficient for them to mark the goods, and leave
them till there were persons to buy them. They re-
plied, the informer will buy them. So they took the
bed and bedding, some tables, chairs, chests, and books,
to the value, at least, of £l4. My wife desired them
to take chairs instead of the meal-chest. They, how-
ever, paid no regard to her entreaties, but taking a
L 2
148 LIFE OF THE IIRV. O. HEYWOOD.
curtain and spreading it on the floor, they poured our
little stock of jneal upon it, and took away the chest.
They carried the goods to a public-house, where they
had bespoke a good dinner, telling the people they
should have overplus goods in plenty to pay for what
they might spend. They got persons of their own
cast to value the goods ; and, upon their partial valu-
ation, they amounted to £10. I6s. Sd ; but they were
certainly worth much more. Ten large books they
valued at thirty shillings. They sent about the bell-
man in Halifax to cry a sale of the goods, but they
could not sell one article. The justices told the officers,
they might take them and divide them among them-
selves ; but this they did not choose to do, as they
said they had no immediate occasion for them. The
constable, grooving entirely weary of the business, was
glad to deliver all up to the man who succeeded him
in the office. The people of the house, where the
goods were lodged, grew impatient about them, and
told the officer, if he did not take them away, they
must be thrown out of doors, for they would not have
them any longer. They then got leave to lay them
up in a barn, at Coley-hall, a year after they were
seized. At length, one R. Reyner came with a cart
to convey them to Wakefield.* When they were
loading the cart, one of the men said, in derision,
* Where is Heywood's God now, to whom he used to
pray so much?'"
On this transaction, Mr. H. remarks : " Lord, whi-
ther will not men's rage carry them if left to them-
selves ? Is plundering in fashion in times of peace ?
Must preaching the gospel cost confiscation ? Are
there laws to authorize robbery ? Shall Magna
* Ten years afterwards, they remained at Wakefield as useless
commodities.
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 149
Charta and common humanity have no place ? Shall
poor ministers have their estates taken from them for
preaching, instead of living by the altar ? Are these
all the wages we must have for our studies, preaching,
and prayers ? Can the ungrateful world afford us no
better reward ? Father, forgive them, they know not
what they do ! O that this sin may not be laid to
England's charge ! Is preaching the word grown so
heinous a thing, that it must be construed into sedi-
tion ? Is it likely that sedition can be hatched in a
public congregation, where all are free to hear ? But
this is no new thing. Paul was accounted a mover
of sedition, and Elijah, a troubler in Israel. But why
should I exclaim against men ? They act according
to their nature and commission from above ; God
doth that righteously which men do impiously. The
Sabeans and Chaldeans took away Job's property, but
he saith, ' The Lord hath taken away.' ' Is there evil
in the city, and the Lord hath not done it ? ' The
hand of God is in this. O my soul, lay to heart thy
indisposedness in that day's duty. Examine thy prin-
ciples, rule, and end. Take shame to thyself in what
thou seest amiss, and give God the glory of what was
his own. Be nothing in thyself, and let God be all in
all in what thou dost for him ; then when God and
thy soul are friends, submit to his good pleasure, re-
joice in tribulation, suffer joyfully the spoiling of thy
goods, and be not only content, but thankful for the
honour of losing any thing for God. Remember the
grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, though he was
rich, infinitely rich, yet for thy sake became poor,
that thou mightest be rich ; and art thou unwilling to
become poor for him ? Dost thou love thy goods bet-
ter than thy <jod ? Have men left thee no table to
eat at, or bed to lie on ? Thy Lord Jesus had not
15© LIFE or THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
where to lay his head. Dost thou live by borrowing ?
Bless God thou hast friends of whom to borrow.
What great difference is there between thy own and
others' goods, if thou hast the sight and use of them ?
Property is little more than a fancy. Bless God thou
hadst any thing to lose in his cause, and that he will
accept such poor offerings. Who am I, that God
should honour me so much ? Many richer than I,
have not lost so much in the cause of God ; this is free
love ! Lord, forgive my ingratitude ! I was lately
prisoner for God, and now he hath honoured me with
the loss of part of my estate for him ; it is welcome —
welcome prisons, losses, crosses, reproaches, racks, and
death itself, if the Lord call me to it, and will enable
me to endure it to his glory. The suffering side is the
safe side. God might have left me to have been a per-
secutor ; but he hath long employed me in active
work, and now in suffering work : this is as acceptable
as the former. O that God would pity the instru-
ments of this my trouble ! O that God would give
the world to see a greater beauty in suffering for
Christ, who now partly pity me for my loss, and cen-
sure me for my rashness ! O that God would pity
this poor nation, involved in so much guilt by perse-
cution, and exposed to so much wrath and indignation
from above !"
On the same day that his goods were seized, Mr.
H. says, " I preached in the afternoon to the number
four, on Heb. x. 34, * Ye had compassion of me in my
bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods,
knowing in yourselves, tbat ye have in heaven a bet-
ter and an enduring substance.' On Friday I preached
again from the same text, and on Saturday went into
Lancashire. July 21st, returned home and found all
well ; blessed be God for this jourmey ; 23rd, I went
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 151
to Pool, and preached in a chapel there. Blessed be
God that a new door is opened for God's people. I
preached several times at home in the course of the
week, and on the Lord's day four times, twice at home
and twice abrodd."
He had suffered joyfully the spoiling of his goods
for his attachment to the work of the Lord, and he
was called to experience public reproach also, for main-
taining the truths of the gospel. " That my sufferings
may be complete," he observes, " God hath added re-
proach to all the rest. Last Lord's day, July 31st,
1670, Dr. Hook took occasion to controvert an ex-
pression in my book of Heart Treasure, which is
this : ' Though grace be of greater worth, it is dis-
putable whether it attain to greater strength than cor-
ruption, even in the hearts of the sanctified, in this
life.' He called this, an unheard of assertion, and
loaded it with dreadful conseqviences, as patronizing
all profaneness ; adding, that on this principle he may
be a good man who is only as much sober as drunk.
He exclaimed most bitterly for a quarter of an hour
against such as will dare to preach and print such
dangerous errors. What I there say is disputahle.
Dr. Reynolds, bishop of Norwich, lays down as a
positive assertion in these words : ' Original sin is
stronger in the regenerate than the graces they have
received.' Strange it should be an error in my book,
and a truth in his ; but partiality blinds men. I am
glad he hath found no greater error in my book, than
what my own sad experience too evidently demonstrates.
Alas ! I fear there were bitter railing accusations
against an absent person. But why do I find fault
with him ? Hath not God bidden him, as David
said, of Shimei ?- Hath not God sent this for my fur-
ther humiliation? Is it a christian spirit in me to
152 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
snarl at the stone that is cast at me? No, God forbid!
I will lay my hand upon my mouth and be silent. The
will of the Lord be done. If my reproach may pro-
mote God's glory it is as welcome as my loss. I am
not the first that hath been called a deceiver of the
people ; my dear Saviour underwent much more. Re-
proach is grievous to a generous spirit, but reproach
for Christ is welcome to a gracious soul. Can we ex-
pect better fare than our Saviour, who was accounted
pne that wrought his miracles by the devil's aid ?
Moses esteemed the reproach of Christ greater riches
than the treasures of Egypt ; and shall we be afraid of
it ? God forbid ! Did not the primitive Christians
rejoice that they were accounted worthy to suffer shame
for his sake : and shall we fret at it ? O that God
would help us all, and me in particular, to act as be-
comes Christians, to act honourably under dishonour,
to pass on cheerfully in our christian course, through
good and evil report, to give no occasion to the adver-
sary to speak reproachfully, and to pity and pray for
our adversaries. O that God would clear up our in-
nocence, roll away our reproach, and set us as stars in
the firmament of the church !"
These persecutions for righteousness' sake did not
prevent Mr. Heywood from pursuing what appeared
to him the path of duty, but made him more courageous
and daring than before. " Aug. 6th," he informs us,
*' I went to Shadwell to preach there ; and though, the
Lord's day before, officers went to take the minister, and
I heard as I went of purj^oses to disturb us, yet God pre-
served us all that day in quietness. It was a good
day, and we had a numerous assembly deeply affected.
On Friday, returned home and found all well : blessed
be God. O for a thankful heart ! The Lord's day
after, young Mr. Root preached at Shadwell, when
. HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 153
Lord Saville, Mr. Copley, Mr. Hammond, and forty-
troopers from York came and took Mr. Root, carried
him to York Castle, and took four or five hundred
names of people, seized their horses and made them
pay five shillings apiece before they had them again.
This was on August 28th, on which day I was earnestly
desired to be there ; I had promised, but my visit was
afterwards postponed. Mr. Root was kept close pri-
soner, put into the low jail among twelve thieves, and
had double irons on him four days and nights ; but on
Capt. Hodgson's importunity with Mr. Copley, he was
released. Oct. 4th, I went to help him in a day of
thanksgiving for his deliverance out of prison. God
was present on that day. From Lord's day morning
till Friday night I preached nine times. Blessed be
God for work ; methinks I am never better than when
I work most. Dec. 27th, I went to E. Hickball's ;
when I had finished, and was sitting by the fire taking
a pipe, the constable and others came, they were five
in all. They knocked at the door, and wanted to
know who were in the house ? They came into the
parlour where we sat still. We asked them what they
saw in us more than others ? Surely friends may visit
each other this Christmas time. A little while after
they went away, sat at the alehouse, and wrote down
our names. What they intend to do, the Lord only
knows. One Binns a young man, went and fetched
the constable to obtain money ; but we had done our
work when they came. The next day we had ap-
pointed a fast to be kept at Sam. Ellison's, but I had
no sooner got thither, than the constable who had
followed us arrived. I went away and the others as-
sembled at D. Parker's. The constable came to de-
mand fines in the Shadwell business about Mr. Root."
The religious opportunities Mr. H. now enjoyed.
154 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
were mostly of a private nature, and with small num-
bers : but the Saviour's promise to his disciples was
abundantly fulfilled in his happy experience ; " Where
two or three are gathered together in my name, there
am I in the midst of them." The garrets and cham-
bers in which Mr. H. occasionally dispensed the word
of life to a few of Zion's travellers, were frequently con-
verted into Bethels by the presence and blessing of the
Most High, and amidst the darkness of their midnight
assemblies they were cheered by the light of the Sun
of righteousness : the more men persecuted, the more
God comforted. " March 24th, 1671," he mentions,
*' we had a private meeting at my house, and partook
of the Lord's supper. O ! it was a delightful season ;
though I did not find my heart so much melted that
day as the day before in preparation, wherein I was
much carried out in the confession of sin, and renewing
my covenant with God. April 19th, we had a com-
fortable day at J. Priestley's. O what a frame was my
heart in ; it hath seldom been so drawn out. Blessed
be God ; he will bow his ear when hearts are prepared.
On the 21st, my wife, sons, and maid, set out with me
on a journey into Lancashire. At Denton I preached on
the Lord's day for my father Angier, who still enjoys
his liberty. On Monday we kept a solemn day of
thanksgiving in my father Angler's study. O what a
day was it ! I may almost say none like it. These
prayers and tears God will hear. I despatched some
worldly business about my small estate in Little Lever,
and sealed writings, by which I am become a purchaser,
I hope in presage of our future settlement, parallel to
the case of Jeremiah. I confess it is strange, I should
buy land in such a day as this ; but my case is almost
like the prophet's, I am necessitated to buy it. I should
have preached at Cockey chapel on the Lord's day ;
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 155
but though I was invited, I was put off disingenuously,
for they durst not venture. I preached morning and
night at brother Crompton's. On Thursday, we came
to Rochdale, on our way homewards : but a messenger
came to us about four o'clock in the morning, to ac-
quaint us with the death of brother Laurence Cromp-
ton, whom we left well on Monday. It was a sudden
and astonishing blow. May the Lord sanctify it."
The anniversary of the 24tli of August, a day so
distinguished in the records of the English church,
and so memorable in the history of Dissent, was ob-
served with great solemnity by the ejected ministers,
and ought not to pass unnoticed by their successors
and descendants. It was generally kept by the former
as a day of fasting and prayer, and might be well occu-
pied by the latter in reviewing the annals of Noncon-
formity, or in examining and illustrating the principles
and reasons of Dissent. The following are specimens
of the manner in which this day was noticed by Mr.
Hey wood : " Aug. 24, 1665, being the killing day of
all Nonconformist ministers, I appointed a fast at my
house, and propounded four things ; first, to lament
before the Lord this sad judgment; secondly, to inquire
of God what was the cause ; thirdly, to beg of God
the sanctified use of this dreadful stroke ; and fourth-
ly, to entreat God to remove it. — Aug. 24, 1670, being
Bartholomew's day, just eight years since the Noncon-
formists were struck dead by the sad Uniformity Act,
we kept a fast that day in my house, and had the help
of some christian friends. O ! it was a sweet day.
My heart was wonderfully helped, melted, and enlarg-
ed. O for an answer of peace ! — This being Aug. 24,
1671, called black Bartholomew day, I resolved to
keep a fast : and because I came home only last night,
and could get no other company, I kept it with my
156 LIFE or THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
family. The forenoon we spent in prayer. Eliezer *
prayed first, very sensibly though short. John prayed
a long time, and exceeding pertinently and affection-
ately, weeping mnch : I wondered at it. God helped
our maid, my wife, and myself wonderfully. O what
a melting duty was it ! In the afternoon I prayed,
and preached to a considerable number of people.
Blessed be God for this day ; he will hear."
Such happy seasons encouraged Mr. H. to continue
waiting on God in private, and emboldened him in the
persecuted ways of Nonconformity. " Aug. 27th," he
says, " I preached at home as usual, had a numerous
assembly, and God helped. Two bailiffs of Bradford
were at a neighbour's house, and took a man ; but
God either hid us from them, or chained them up :
blessed be his name. Sept. — , I went to keep a fast
at Mr. Sharp's, Little Horton. Mr. Sales preached,
Mr. Sharp,! Mr. Waterhouse, i Mr. Boys, and I pray-
ed. I was much straitened in j)rayer ; God is wise.
Perhaps I was conceited of myself, and others expected
too much from me. I have not felt my spirits so out
of frame, this long time ; but God made amends, for I
had wonderful meltings of heart when another was en-
gaged in duty. It is welcome ; let me be ashamed, so
that God may be glorified and my heart bettered.
* Eliezer was only fourteen, and John fifteen years of age at
this time.
t A long and familiar acquaintance was preserved between Mr.
H. and the family at Little Horton. I\Ir. Sharp was related to
the archbishop of the same name, and became the minister of the
congregation at Mill-Hill in Leeds, where he died. Lord's day,
Aug. 27, 1793, aged 60. He was a man of very superior abilities,
and his death was much lamented.
X jMr. Waterhouse was ejected from Bradford, after which he
lived privately, occasionally preaching in his own house. He was
a learned man and much esteemed.
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 157
There was a considerable number present of different
persuasions. It was a good day. Sept. 13, we had a
private day of fasting and prayer, and I preached. It
was such a day as I never had in all my life, that I
remember. My heart was exceedingly drawn out for
myself, my family, congregation, and country, with
such a measure of feeling, weeping, and elocution, as if I
had been taking leave of my people and the world. —
Lord's day, Jan. 14th, 1672, I preached at home, and
there was a great assembly, because there was no
preacher at the chapel. About one o'clock, tidings
were brought to me, that S. Ellis had obtained a war-
rant, and was resolved to come and break us up, which
occasioned me to dismiss the people. The rest of the
day, Captain Hodgson and I spent in prayer. God
made that providence work much good."
When Mr. Heywood was prevented from proclaim-
ing the truths of the gospel as publicly as he desired
by preaching, he was resolved to edify his people, and
bless the church in future days by employing his pen.
It was in this period of his life, he completed his pub-
lications entitled Heart Treasure — Closet Prayer —
Sure Mercies of David. These compositions, as may be
naturally supposed, have some relation to the times in
which they were written,* and contain a compendium
of the divine truths that mostly occupied his attention,
* In his preface to the last of these, dated June 1670, he evi-
dently refers to the spoiling of goods which he and many of his
fellow-sufferers endured about this time : " The tyrant's rage car-
not pluck sure mercies out of your hearts and hands. This con-
sideration is of singular use in a losing time. IMen may take away
our estates, liberties, and privileges, but they cannot take away
our spiritual mercies. They may degrade us, and remove us from
our functions and offices, but cannot dissettle our souls from rela-
tion to Christ, or a state of grace, or from blessed influences of
grace."
158 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
and comforted his mind in this season of trial and
persecution.
The various circumstances recorded in this chapter,
show how diligently Mr. H. was employed in promot-
ing the spiritual welfare of others, and the following
passages prove he was equally careful of the life of re-
ligion in his own soul : " This day, July 31st, 1671,
having the opportunity of solitariness, all my family
being from home, I set myself solemnly to religious
exercises. I first read the 139th Psalm concerning
God's omniscience and omnipresence, with tears in my
eyes, commenting upon it and applying it to myself,
I accordingly set myself as in the presence of God, de-
siring to deal truly and faithfully with my own soul in
self-examination, and to lay open all my known sins.
I fell down upon my knees, and for about an hour the
Lord helped me to open my heart before him, to con-
fess my iniquities with grief, sorrow, and shame, so far
as I could call them to mind, and to cry to God with
many tears for pardon of, and power against my sins,
God brought my bitterest enemies to my thoughts, and
helped me seriously to beg mercy for their souls, for my
relations, for the congregation at Coley, for all other
congregations, for my native land, and some other ob-
jects. The Lord hath given me some secret intimations
of pardon and acceptance, and did communicate himself
graciously to my heart. These things being consider-
ed, I am pressed in spirit to renew my covenant with
my God in writing, as I have been doing it on my
knees. O that God would help me to plain dealing in
this case, that I may not deal falsely either in making
or keeping covenant with him. So far as I know any
thing of this treacherous heart, I desire to be upright
and downright in this business ; for none is privy to
these things but God and my own conscience : and I
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 15^
do this the rather, because I have found my own heart
inconstant, that I may bind myself under my own
hand-writing, taking my warrant from Isa. xliv. 5."
" Dreadful Jehovah, I am thy poor creature, and a
grievous sinner, a transgressor from the womb, and a
wanderer all my days to this moment ; lying under
the guilt of the first man's first sin, and following
such ruinous steps in various actual transgressions.
I am by nature a child of wrath, a slave to Satan,
under thy curse, and liable to hell torments ; but thou
hast, of thy own infinite mercy, spared my life, and
preserved me in the world above forty years. Thou
broughtest me up under religious parents, gavest me
thy good word to read and hear preached, didst touch
my heart with remorse for sin and cause workings of
heart, before I was twelve years of age ; and though
I backslided fearfully into great sins and a course of
security, yet thy Spirit hath several times fetched me
home again, and thy grace hath indulgently received
me. Still I find a deceitful, backsliding heart with-
drawing from the living God ; and, having tried
prayers, tears, vows, and fastings, still ray heart gives
me the slip, and grows formal, distracted, and secure.
I here call thee, my God, to witness, that it is the
desire of my soul to cleave to thee with full purpose of
heart. I do therefore acquiesce in, and admire thy
glorious design of saving lost mankind by thy blessed
Son, my precious Saviour, Jesus Christ, being God-
man, the only Mediator between an offended and righ-
teous God, and guilty, condemned sinners. I thank-
fully accept of him as my only Prophet, to teach me
by his word and Spirit the way of life ; as my Priest,
to make satisfaction to thy justice for my sin, and in-
tercede for my soul ; as my Lord and Sovereign, to
rule and govern me. And, though thou hast helped
160 LIFE OF THE UEV. O. HEYWO0I5.
me to preach many a sermon, to put up many a prayer,
and to distribute spiritual and bodily alms, I renounce
all as if I had done nothing, and rely only upon thy
grace and the merits of thy Son for my justification ;
and if ever thou accept me here or save me hereafter,
I must put all to the account of free grace alone. I do
also here give up myself to thee, body and soul, all
that I am, have, or can do, or shall be, to thy service
and use, looking upon myself henceforth no more as
my own, but the Lord's, entreating thee to sanctify
my whole soul, and sjiint, and body, resolving by thy
grace to spend and be spent for thee. If thou hast
given any faculties of soul, gifts of mind, strength of
body, or opportunity of service, I resolve, and hereby
promise to employ all, in the way of my duty, to thy
glory, depending only upon thee for strength and as-
sistance. I do also unfeignedly bind myself, under
every obligation, to fight against Satan's temptations,
to mortify my most beloved lusts and corruptions, to
avoid all appearance and occasions of sin, and to this
end, to study thy holy word, to perform all the duties
thou requirest of me, and to walk all my days in
obedience to thy revealed will, to love mine enemies,
deny myself, bear the cross thou layest upon me, and
follow the Lord Jesus, what way soever he shall be
pleased to lead me. If, at any time, through the
weakness of my flesh and the strength of temptation,
I be overcome, my desire and design are, by the assist-
ance of thy grace, to rise again by rejientance, to con-
fess my sins, to make fresh application to the blood of
Christ for pardon, to renew my engagements to sin no
more, to be more watchful over my own heart, humbly
hoping for mercy according to the covenant of thy
grace, desiring thee not to leave me at any time to my-
self, but to hold me in thy hand that my footsteps
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. iGl
slip not. O that tlioii wouldest crown tliese engage-
ments with strength of performance and perseverance
to the end ! I thank thee, that thou hast given me
a heart to make this covenant, that thou hast accepted
me through my surety, through whom all my good
flows from thee, and through whom myself and ail I
do are accepted by thee. Thus I have avouched the
Lord to be my God, hoping thou dost ratify it in hea-
ven according to thy word. This is the day of my
solemn contract with thee, in the sadness of my heart
lamenting past failures, and hoping and longing for
completion of this engagement in the kingdom of hea-
ven with joy and triumph. Thus do I make bold, O
my God ! to subscribe myself,
Thy devoted servant for ever,
OLIVER HEYWOOD.
This Itixfant, Juhj 31, 1671, in my
Studij, at Coley-hall.
"August 29th, 1671. I set myself to review my
state, and especially my course of life since my solemn
entering into covenant with God. I find many things
amiss, and have not kept close to it ; but have omitted
and carelessly performed duties, closed with tempta-
tions, committed sins, and fallen again into a course of
carelessness and lukewarmness. I have therefore first
dealt with my own heart, which I found in an ill
frame. Then read Hosea xiv. which I saw was adapted
to my condition : I commented on it, and my heart
was melted. Then I fell on my knees, and found
some measure of God's presence in confessing sin and
supplicating mercy. I laid the bible on my knees, and
improved those commands, directions, promises, and
pathetical reflections of true penitents in that chapter.
My heart was a little more warmed, the fire burned,
VOL. I. M
16^ I,1FE OF THE Ri:V. O. HEYWOOD.
and O what a flame did God excite in my soul ! Now
I experience that God heals backsliders, and that he
loves freely. () that the same free grace may prevent
future backslidings ! May I never again return to
folly as I have done ! Alas, I have found a wretched,
treacherous, abominable heart ! I have great cause to
suspect the truth of my repentance, whether it be suit-
able and sufficient, because it is so ineffectual to pre-
vent sinning. I have fallen by mine iniquity ; it is a
wonder I am not in hell ! God be merciful to me a
sinner ! None knows how vile I am ! I am afraid of
falling into sin again ; afraid to go out of my study
into the world, company, or employment. I find little
strength, and am weary of the world, weary of my
sinful heart ! * O wretched man that I am ! who shall
deliver me from the body of this death ?' When will
death part body and soul, that it may part my soul
and sin ? ^Vhen shall I be above the reach of Satan's
temptations or occasions of sin ? Lord, hasten that
blessed release, that I may be with Christ, my Lord.
Amen.'*
The late Dr. Fawcett has recorded an interesting
and remarkable providence concerning Mr. Hey wood,
which probably occurred during this period of his life,
though no account of the circumstance is to be found
among his manuscripts now extant.* The anecdote
* In a correspondence with the AVriter of this Memoir, rela-
tive to this anecdote and another given page 115, the late venerable
Dr. Fawcett says : " The particular dates of these events I am not
able to ascertain with exactness, but the facts have been so strongly,
so invariably, and so constantly affirmed, by persons of undoubted
verity, some of whom I could name, and others who have been
long dead, that I have not the least reason to doubt the truth of
them. The late ]\Ir. J. Hudson, of Clayton, informed me, that
fifty years ago he conversed with an aged woman, who was pre-
sent at the meeting at Moneybents in Craven, where Mr. H. was.
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 163
is as follows: "One winter's morning, while it was
yet dark, the horse was saddled, and this good man
set out, like Abraham, when he left his father's house,
not knowing whither he went. He went along in bye
ways for some time, for fear of being seen. Having
nothing in his pocket to bear his travelling expences,
he committed himself to the protection of Providence.
He determined at length to leave his horse at full li-
berty to go what way he would ; and thus travelled
on till both were weary. Towards evening, the horse
bent his course to a farm-house, a little out of the road.
Mr. H. called at the door, and a decent woman came
out to enquire what he wanted. ' I have reason,' said
he, * to make an apology for giving you this trouble,
being an entire stranger in these parts. My horse
stands in need, as well as myself, of shelter and re-
freshment for the night ; if you could any way make
it convenient to furnish my horse with a little hay, and
a stand under cover, and myself with a seat by your
fire-side, I ask no more.' The good woman, a little
entertained, and though then but a child, she had, when jMr.
Hudson saw her, a perfect recollection of the circumstances re-
corded in that part of the story." After this period Mr. H. re-
peatedly mentions going to visit and preach to his friends in
Craven: and when his son John went in Sept. 1678, to live with
John Hey, in Gisburn parish, he was " to preach to that people,"
says Mr. H. " to whom I have a special relation." He also notices
having been called to preach in Craven three times in the summer
of KJ/B, and says of the people : " They are willing to attend ordi-
nances, and every time I go the number is increased, and God
stirs up some affections. I found my heart more than ordinarily
enlarged in pleading for their conversion when amongst them the
last time, Aug. 10th, (1676.) It is an ignorant place, and hath
had no good preaching there for many generations, and now there
is a moving, who knows what may be done ? There are some
serious, gi-acious Christians among them, which occasioned ray
going, and with whom I have had delightful communion in fast
days, and at the Lord's supper."
M 2
164 IJFE OF THE KEV. O. KEYWOOD.
surprised at his request, told liim she would consult
her husband. After a few minutes, they both came to
the door, and Mr. H. repeated his solicitation, but told
them he had no money to satisfy them for their trouble;
yet he hoped God would reward them. They im-
mediately desired him to alight ; the master led the
horse into the stable, and the mistress began to pre-
pare something for Mr. H. to eat. He told her, he
was concerned to see her give herself so much trouble,
lie did not request either a supper or bed, but only to
sit by the fire-side till the morning. The mistress as-
sured him, that for an act of hospitality she did not
expect any reward, and that though the accommodations
her house would afford, were but indifferent, he should
be welcome ; and therefore hoped he would make him-
self easy."
" After supper, they all sat down by the fire, and
the master of the house desired to know of the stranger,
what countryman he was. ' I was born,' said he, ' in
Lancashire, but I have a wife and family in the neigh-
bourhood of Halifax.' ' That is a town,' said the farmer,
' where I have been ; and some years ago I had some
acquaintance there. Pray do you know Mr. S. and
Mr. D. ? And is old Mr. F. yet alive ?' The stranger
gave suitable answers to these, and other enquiries.
At length the kind hostess asked him, ' if he knew any
thing of one Mr. Oliver Heywood, who was formerly
a minister at some chapel not far from Halifax, but
was now, on some account or other, forbidden to preach.'
The stranger replied, ' There is a great deal of noise
and talk about him ; some speak well, others say every
thing that is bad of him : for my own part I can say
little in his favour.' ' I believe,' said the farmer, ' he
is of that sect which is every where spoken against ;
but pray, do you personally know him ? And what is
HIS BANISHMENT FROM HOME. 165
it that inclines you to form such an indifferent opinion
of his character ?' ' I do know something of him,' said
the stranger, ' but as I do not choose to propagate an
ill report of any one, if you please we will talk on some
other subject.' After keeping the farmer and his wife
in suspense for some time, who were a little uneasy at
what he had said, he told them, he was the the poor
outcast. All was then surprise, and joy, and thank-
fulness, that a merciful Providence had brought him
under their roof. The farmer said, ' Mr. H. I am glad
to see you here, having long had a sincere regard for
you, from the favourable report I have always heard
of you. The night is not far spent, I have a few
neighbours that love the gospel, and if you will give us
a word of exhortation, I will run and acquaint them.
This is an obscure place, and as your coming here is
not known, I hope we shall have no interruption.'
Mr. H. consented ; a small congregation was gathered ;
and he preached to them with that fervor, affection,
and enlargement, which attending circumstances served
to inspire. On this joyful occasion, a small collection
was voluntarily made to help the poor traveller on his
way."
PART V.
Mr. Heywood's {/lan/cfiibiess for private Liberty — Declaration of
public Liberty to the Noncoiiformists — Mr. Heywood's removal to
Northowram — Receipt of License — Reflections — Formation of a
christian Society at Northowram — Church covenant — Union of
Trcsbyterians and Independents — Mr. Heywood's Labours and
success — Ordination at Manchester — Dr. Hook's Opposition —
Dedication of his sons to the Ministry — Personal Covenants.
In the preceding detail we have seen the severity with
wliich the Nonconformists were treated ; and, though
Mr. Heywood was involved in trouble for preaching
publicly at Coley chapel, yet he was protected in his
private labours. This mercy made a deep impression
on his grateful'heart, and he set apart Jan. 31st, 1672,
as a day of thanksgiving. On this occasion he says,
" It was a good day. Reflect, O my soul, on the cir-
cumstances of thy case. What ! a day of thanksgiving
in so sad a time of affliction! Is it seasonable? Is it not
a solecism to rejoice in a day of sorrow ? No. As public
restraint may be consistent with private liberty ; so
private thankfulness may be consistent with occasion
of public mourning. It is true, carnal joy is unsuitable
to the time of the church's sorrow ; yet spiritual joy
may be maintained in the midst of outward grief.
Blessed be God that we have his presence though in
private. I have now been at Coley-hall above six years,
and have had interesting, frequent, and numerous meet-
ings all the time witliout disturbance : and doth not
this deserve our thankfulness ? ^Vell mav we bless
LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD. l67
God for a little opening of the door of liberty, though
there be many adversaries, for praise may push it fur-
ther open as well as prayer. The Act of Parliament
saith, five shall not meet ; God saith, five score shall
meet to worship him in private. Men say, we shall
be punished ; God saith, no, ' touch not mine anointed,
and do my prophets no harm :' and it must be accord-
ing to the divine commission. Men shut, but God
opens ; the omnipotent God is beyond impotent man.
God's ordinances wherever dispensed, are the gate of
the Lord, into which the righteous do enter. Who
knows what good the Lord hath done to precious souls
in a private way? He is the same in a chamber as
in a church ; God orders all for the best. Little did
I think to have been thus employed ; my resolution
was to attend in public, if not to be a speaker, at least
a hearer; but God hath seen good otherwise to dispose
of me, for when men had thrust me out of public work,
he employed me in private. I have many times
thought and said, ' I will not make mention of him,
nor speak any more in his name,' at least in this place
and in these times ; ' but his word was in my heart
as a burning fire shut up in my bones.' Sometimes I
have altered the time and given notice to the contrary,
but it would not do, the people have pressed in upon
me, frequent vacancies have occurred at the chapel,
and poor souls have been famishing and crying out
for a morsel of spiritual bread. I have put my credit,
estate, and liberty in my hand to distribute to them
the word of life, and God has secured me so that I have
never suffered for private work at home, though for
what has been public I have been plundered. Blessed
be God for this door of hope in the valley of Achor :
though I an7 civilly dead, yet ' I shall ziot die but live,
and declare the works of the Lord.' ' This is the day
168 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEY WOOD.
the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it.'
O Lord, make this private brook to hold out till thou
give plentiful rain upon the earth." This sacrifice of
praise was accepted, and some of the above remarks
were partly propheticah
It is notorious that Charles was a papist, and vmder
the pretence of a conciliatory disposition towards the
persecuted and oppressed Nonconformists, he sought
to encourage popery. Had he been the real friend of
the ejected ministers, he would not have suffered them
to have groaned ten long years under the grievous yoke
of penal laws. By an exertion of arbitrary power, he
was pleased to suspend the execution of the laws that
had been passed against the Nonconformists, and issued
a declaration, dated March 15th, 1672, in which it was
acknowledged, " that there was very little fruit of all
those forcible methods which had been used for reduc-
ing erring and dissenting persons." This declaration
was a merciful and unexpected answer of prayer, and
was received as such by Mr. Heywood, who says :
" March 18th, I went to keep a fast at J. Smith's near
Great Horton. God wonderfully helped my heart
both in prayer and preaching, but especially in prayer
for the church, and for poor ministers, that (after a
silence of almost ten years,) their mouths might be
opened. Indeed it hath long been my earnest request,
but then more enlargedly ; and behold a sudden re-
turn ! On Tuesday two messengers came, one from
Halifax and the other from Leeds, to bring me the joy-
ful .tidings of liberty to Nonconformists to preach in
public places. I confess it was welcome news, and al-
most incredible ; but having heard the particular re-
lation together with the reasons assigned, I was bound
to credit it, and rejoice in God's mercy. Ezra vii.
2,7, 28, came into my thoughts upon hearing the news;
UNDER THE PROTECTION OF A LICENSE. 169
and with respect to the return of prayer, Isa. Ixv. 24,
is very applicable. This day, March 20th, we had ap-
pointed for a solemn fast, and God sent in this mercy
beforehand to melt our hearts and encourage us in our
waiting on him. Truly it was an affecting day ; God
wonderfully drew out my heart, and I hope will give
fvirther returns of prayer." This indulgence was very
cautiously received by the Nonconformists, for they
knew the king was not influenced by love to them,
and some would not embrace the proffered liberty, lest
they should be considered as sanctioning his arbitrary
measures, and encouraging popery. Mr. H. was one
of eighteen ministers who assembled at Manchester on
the ] 9th of April, to consult what steps they should
take, when they unanimously agreed to embrace the
opportunity of usefulness thus afforded them.
About this time, Mr. Heywood being under the
necessity of removing from Coley Hall, where he had
resided six years, he returned to the house at North-
owram, where he had first become a housekeeper, and
in which he continued till removed to that house which
became his eternal home. The house with two crofts
he purchased of B. Boys, of Halifax, for a hundred
marks. As Mr. H. was an attentive observer of the
ways of Providence, and as there were some remark-
able circumstances attending this purchase and re-
moval, he has left a minute narrative of the event,
from which the following is an extract. " March 4th,
1672, I paid for my house, and have it assured to me
and mine as strongly as the law can make it. There
are several observable providences interwoven with this
affair. 1. This is the place in which I kept house im-
mediately on my first marriage. Here my two sons
drew their first breath, and in it my very dear mother
breathed her last, ascending from thence to heaven.
170 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
Here I have enjoyed much mercy, and experienced
some affliction ; I prefer it above all the houses in the
country. 2. It comes to me clear of every objection,
none opposing. 3. It comes to me seasonably, when we
knew not what course to take ; we had been expressing
our gratitude to God, and this occurrence took place.
A sense of mercy is acceptable to God, and obtains fur-
ther mercy. 4. God hath in a surprising manner en-
abled me to make this purchase. After I had been
ejected from my living, and cashiered as a minister.
After I had been exposed to persecvition, and had suf-
fered the loss of property, the liberality of the friends
of religion placed me in better pecuniary circumstances
than those in which I had been before. 5. My man-
ner of leaving it was strange. The year before the
Cheshire-rising, being suspected, I was apprehended and
prosecuted as a plotter, and as one disaffected to the state.
Two young men, rash and heady, prevailed upon my
landlady to remove me, having raised my rent twice
before. I was turned out of the house in 1660, in
hopes of driving me from the chapel ; but God found
me another house. The house, after I left it, remained
empty several years, and the eldest son of the landlady
is in necessitous circumstances, while I am restored
to the place again, in point of title, as my own. 6. It
is a gracious providence that God should order a settle-
ment for me and mine at Coley, to which my heart is
attached more than to any place in the world, having
been here above twenty-one years. God blessed my
public labours when I lived in this house more than
all the time before or since, and who knows what
work he hath for me to do still ? However, I shall
not be at the pleasure of persecuting landlords. When
men curse, God blesses ; when men resist, God assists;
when men withraw, God affords supply; the worse
UNDEll THE PKOTECTION OF A LICENSE. 171
men are, the better God is. 7- As a presage of future
mercy, on my return home, in the evening my son
read Jer. xxxii, wherein methinks there are several
particulars parallel to my case. Jeremiah was a j^ri-
soner, to punish him for preaching, and to hinder him
from preaching ; and though we are not all prisoners,
yet that is the legal punishment for our preaching,
and we are shut out from the discharge of our office.
Hanameel came to Jeremiah when in prison to entreat
him to buy the field ; so J. Priestley came again and
again, urging me to buy the house, &c. The prophet
also was to buy it for himself when in a persecuted
state ; so though we are driven from the revenues of
the church that we may live as we can, yet God pro-
vides. Jeremiah knew at last it was the word of the
Lord ; so I am abundantly satisfied this is God's will,
after Iiaving earnestly by prayer committed the matter
to him. The prophet delivered the evidences of the
purchase to Barucli before witnesses, to be kept in an
earthen vessel as a token that houses, fields, and vine-
yards would be possessed again in that land ; and O !
that I could with good ground say, that this my pur-
chase is a type of the restoration of ministers to their
respective places. We have cause to fear some captivity.
The Lord fit us for it, and make good his promises to
our posterity. However, the prophet went to prayer
for his people after he had made the purchase, and
God answered him ; so, O my soul, unite this civil pur-
chase with spiritual prayers, and in due time the Lord
will answer. Amen."
A few days before Mr. H. removed to his new habi-
tation he received his license to preach publicly, and
he immediately availed himself of the privilege.*
* In the Northowram Register, in page ]6, there is a consider-
able blank, and at the bottom of the page Mr. He j wood has
172 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
" This time two years," observes Mr. H. " when the
act against conventicles came out, so severely enforced
by penalties, I remember having said, I was persuaded
none would suffer by it, at least that £lOO. in fines
would not be paid in all England. But I was mis-
taken, for many suffered deeply, yea, God was pleased
to punish my folly and security by a £lO. fine on my-
self. This day, May 4th, I received my license, signed
with the king's hand-writing : and accordingly I have
made use of it, and preached on Rev. iii. 8, to a
numerous company in Coley-hall, which is the last day
I am likely to be here. Blessed be God for this mercy.
On Wednesday May 8th, we removed, and God made
us find favour in the eyes of our neighbours. That
morning, both in my study and in the family, God
sweetly enlarged my heart in prayer, and also at night
in my new habitation at Northowram. It is rather
strange that the declaration for liberty, and ray restora-
tion to my former place of abode, after twelve years'
absence, with a better title, should come both together.
I am apt to think there is something from God in it
more than ordinary. As God continued me in this
house almost as long as my public liberty ; so the
most part of my usefulness as a minister, was granted
me when I lived here. O that God would restore all
the rest with this house and license !"
When reviewing this double mercy he exclaims,
" Surely God hath demonstrated the truth of that
word, ' The heart of the king is in the hand of the
Lord.' We begged liberty, and God hath given it us,
written : " This long interval of almost ten years, I was parted
from the exercise of my ministerial function, by the Act of Uni-
formity in August 1662. Restored again to my work by the
King's Declaration, March 12th, 1672, to ministerial employment
in my own house."
UNDl^Tl THE PllOTECTION OF A LICENSE. 173
but the manner is beyond our contrivance ; that the
laws should still remain in force, and yet we are pre-
served by authority ! Our case is like that of the Jews
in Esther's days, for though our adversaries gnash
their teeth, they cannot prevent our liberty. O what
cannot God do ! It is true, there is cause of grief that
Papists and Atheists enjoy so much liberty, but we
have opportunity of resistance ; we have liberty to do
good, as they have to do hurt ; we have as much leave
to serve God as they have to sin against him. O that
we may have hearts to improve our opportunity in
God's way and to his glory ! May the Lord compensate
for the time that has been lost these ten years, that the
promise in Joel ii. 25 — 27, may be accomplished, " I
will restore to j^ou the years that the locust hath
eaten, &c.' God hath provided a very convenient and
spacious meeting place in my new habitation. O that
it may be said, ' this and that man were born there !'
The Lord blessed the house of Obed-edom, and all
that pertained to him because of the ark of God. The
ark is at present brought under my roof by public
authority, and now I wait for a blessing on my soul,
my family, and the church in my house. Who am I
that I should have a house to live in, when many bet-
ter than I, have ' wandered about in sheep-skins and
goat-skins ; being destitute, afflicted, tormented : of
whom the world was not worthy ?' Who am I that I
should have a house of my own, when my Lord Jesus,
the Lord of life and glory, when on earth, had not
where to lay his head ? O that I could set as little
value on worldly things as my dear Saviour did ! O
that my heart may be in my heavenly home, and seek
a better country, a firmer house, and a city which hath
foundations, whose builder and maker is God ! God
forbid ! that I should now begin to build tabernacles on
174 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEY WOOD.
earth ; rather may my soul breathe after that * house
not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.' Lord,
help me to use this house for thee and thy friends, in
acts of piety to thee, and hospitality towards the mem-
bers of the Lord Jesus Christ." This freedom of wor-
ship after so long restraint, was like a resurrection to
the oppressed Nonconformists. We who live in these
days of religious liberty can form but an imperfect
idea of the value our forefathers set on this indulgence:
it was to them " a little reviving in their bondage,"
and " the word of the Lord was precious in those
days." Multitudes flocked to seek spiritual blessings,
" and the power of the Lord was present to heal them.'*
Shortly after Mr. H. went to his new habitation, and
made use of his license, such numbers attended that
many sometimes went away, not being able to press
into the house, nor come within the sound of the
preacher's voice.
Mr. Heywood having this favourable opportunity,
and being convinced of the propriety of establishing
church order, formed the pious part of his congrega-
tion into a regular society, to whom he statedly admi-
nistered the gospel ordinances. This important work
was conducted in the most solemn manner, and with
fervent prayer. The following are copies of the cove-
nant engagements into which he and the people enter-
ed on this occasion : —
" I, Oliver Heywood, in the county of York, minis-
ter of the gospel, having spent above twenty years in
the Lord's work, amongst the inhabitants of Coley
chapelry, having been suspended ten years from the
public exercise of my ministry, and now at last restor-
ed, upon the earnest prayers of the church, to the dis-
charge of my pastoral work in my own house, by his
Majesty's declaration and licence, do willingly and
rNUER THE PllOTECTION OF A LICENSE. 175
thankfully accept of this open liberty of my ministry,
lamenting my former neglects, justifying the Lord in
the evil he hath brought upon us, begging reconcilia-
tion and a better heart to do God's work more faith-
fully, imploring his blessing for success, and now re-
solving, by the assistance of God's grace, to give up
myself to the Lord's work among this people, in study-
ing the scriptures, preaching the word in season and
out of season, praying with and for them, watching
over them, instructing, admonishing, and exhorting
them publicly and privately, endeavouring to convert
sinners and to confirm, quicken, and comfort saints, —
to administer baptism and the Lord's supper, and ex-
ercise discipline according to the rules of the gospel, so
far as I am convinced from the word, — to set before
the people a holy example, resolving, by the grace of
God, to suffer affliction and persecution with them, if
God call me to it, as a faithful soldier of Christ and a
pastor of souls, that at last I may give up my account
with joy, being pure from the blood of all men : so
promiseth the unworthy servant of Christ,
" Help, Lord." OLIVER HEYWOOD."
The church covenant into which the persons then en-
tered, who constituted this christian society, is as fol-
lows : —
" We, the inhabitants of Coley chapelry and others,
being professors of the christian religion, do willingly
and heartily subscribe to the doctrine of the gospel
contained in the scriptures of truth, and solemnly pro-
fess our faith in God the Father, the Creator of all
things ; in Jesus Christ the Son of God, the Redeemer
of God's elect ; and in the Holy Ghost, the sanctifier
and comforter of the faithful; and do give up ourselves
to the Lord in covenant, according to the terms of the
176 LIFE OF THK REV. O. HEYWOOD.
gospel, to be ruled by his will revealed in the bible, ac-
knowledging the need we have of the ministry of the
word and the seals of the covenant for our edification : —
we do still own Mr. Oliver Heywood, whom God hath
wonderfully restored to the exercise of his ministry
amongst us, as our rightful pastor, formerly chosen by
us ; and we shall be willing, by the assistance of God's
grace, to believe and practise what truths and duties
he shall make manifest to us to be the mind of God,
desirous to maintain communion with God and one
another in his holy worship, and to discharge what
duties he requires of us in his word, as members of one
body and as occasion shall offer : — we resolve, by divine
assistance, to walk in our places as becomes the gospel,
in all good conscience toward God, one another, and
all men : — and we purpose to do this to the end of our
days, against all opposition from the persecutions and
allurements of the world, the temptations of Satan,
and the corruptions of our own wicked hearts, in order
to the glory of God and our eternal salvation."
Every individual member of this society afterwards
made the following declaration :
" I do heartily take this one God for my only God
and my chief good ; and this Jesus Christ for my only
Lord, Redeemer, and Saviour ; and this Holy Spirit
for my Sanctifier ; and the doctrine revealed by Jesus
Christ, and sealed by his miracles, and now contained
in the holy scriptures, I do take for the law of God
and the rule of my faith and life : and repenting un-
feignedly of my sins, I do resolve, through the grace
of God, sincerely to obey him, both in piety towards
God, righteousness towards men, and special love to
the saints, and communion with them, against all temp-
tations of the devil, the world, and the flesh : this I
resolve to do, even to the end of my life. I do also
UNDER THE PROTECTION OF A LICENSE. 177
consent to be a member of the particular church at
Northowram, whereof Mr. O. Heywood is teacher and
overseer, and to submit to his teaching, his ministerial
guidance and oversight, according to God's word : to
hold communion with that church in the public wor-
ship of God, and to submit to the brotherly admonition
of fellow-members, that so we may be built up in
knowledge and holiness, and may the better maintain
our obedience to Christ, promote the welfare of this
society, and hereby the more please and glorify God."
These mutual engagements were entered into by
Mr. H. and his people, June 12th, 1673, when the or-
dinance of the Lord's supper was first administered to
this dissenting church at Northowram, and on which
occasion, Mr. H. thus writes: "Though my heart was
out of order in preparation work, yet in the exercises
of that day I was much melted and carried out towards
God. O it was a delightful day ! God united our
spirits, so that afterwards we made a solemn profes-
sion of our faith, and entered into an engagement to
be the Lord's. The people renewed their owning me
to be their pastor, and I solemnly owned them in
that relation, to discharge all ministerial duties to
them. O that we may perform what we promised ."
This christian church was formed on Presbyterian
principles ; but Mr. Heywood's liberality of senti-
ment being known, several persons who had formerly
been members of the Congregational church at Sower-
by,* previously under the pastoral care of Mr. Root, re-
* After Dr. Fawcett, in his Life of Tllr. Heywood, has said that
Mr. Robert Tiilotson was a member of the congregational church
at Sowerby, and that he was the father of the celebrated archbishop
Tiilotson, who was born at Haugh-End in the township of Sower-
by and parish of Halifax, he relates the following anecdote : —
" Mr. Robert Tiilotson went up to London, on a visit to his son,
when he was Dean of Canterbury, and being in the dress of a
VOL. I. N
178 LIFE OF THE REV. Q. HEYWOOD.
quested leave to unite with the church at Northowram.
*' June 18th," says Mr. H. "there was a solemn meet-
plain countryman, -vvas insulted by one of the Dean's servants, for
inquiring if John Tillotson was at home. His person, however,
being described to the Dean, he immediately exclaimed, * It is my
worthy father,' and running to the door to receive him, he fell down
upon his knees in the presence of his servants, to ask his father's
blessing." He also adds, " The following epistle from Mr. Tillot-
son to IMr. Root has been preserved, which being literally copied,
will no doubt gratify the curious reader :
* For liis much respect, friend Mr. Roote, att Sorbey in Yorke-
shire, are these.
' Sir,
' To excuse the slownes and infrequency of writeing, is
growne a thing soe complementall and common in the frontispeece
of every letter, that I have made choice rather to put myselfe
upon your candor to frame an excuse for mee, than goe about
myselfe to do it.
' I cannot but thankefully acknowledge my engagements to you
for your kindnes showne to mee, both when I was in the country,
and at other times ; I shall not here let my pen run out into com-
plementall lines, gratitude (and that as much as may be) being all
that I desire to expresse.
' As for our university affayres, things are as they was before I
came into the country, only wee have lesse hopes of procuring
IMr. Thomas Goodwin for our IMaster then we then liad. Wee
are in expectation of the Visitors every day, but what will be done
at their comming wee cannot guesse.
' The engagement is either comming downe hither, or (as I
heare) already come, to which how soone wee may bee called
upon to subscribe, we knowe not; as for my selfe I do not (at
present) at all scruple the taking of it ; yet because I dare not
confide too much to my owne judgement, or apprehension of
things, and because matters of such serious consequence require
no little caution and consideration, therefore I shall desire you (as
soone as with convenience you can) to returne mee your opinion
of it in two or three lines.
' JMr. Rich. Holbrooke desired mee to present his respects to
you and your wife, to whom alsoe I desire you to present my best
respects, as alsoe to your son, Joh. Hopkinson, and his wife. Noe
more, but your prayers for him Avho remaines.
Yours, whilst
Clare-Hall, Dec. 6, IGiO. JOH. TILLOTSON.'
UNfiER THE PllOTECTlO:Sr OF A LICENSE. 179
ing at my house between our brethren of the Congre-
gational persuasion and us. Several of Mr. Root's
church came and expressed their desire to join with us
in all ordinances.* We declared plainly the state of
both societies, our present conduct, and the principles
on which we acted ; and, though our principles of
church government were diiferent, we concurred in our
proceedings in the main, and both parties were to over-
look matters of difference. On further debate and
enumeration of our members, they fully acquiesced in
my fidelity as to the admission of our church members,
and were willing to communicate with them as they
stood, without demanding any other satisfaction con-
cerning them ; we also owned them, and were willing
to receive them to all ordinances. A special season
was then appointed for communicating together at the
Lord's supper, and both parties went away abundantly
satisfied. This is the special work of God, for men's
spirits are greatly altered. Captain Hodgson earnestly
promoted this union. Blessed be God. Zeph. iii. 9«
Jer. h 5. Phil. iii. 15." \
* Ml' Henry Root, Sen. of Blagd. Col. Camb. travelled mucf*
into foreign parts in his early life. Afterwards he became a
preacher at Halifax church, and collected a congregational society
at Sowetby chapel, in 1645. He continued preaching at this
place half a year after Bartholomew's day, but was afterwards
treated with great severity. He died Oct. 1069, aged about 80.
t The names of the persons that united with the church at
Korthowram on this occasion are the following, concerning whom
Mr. H. has in some instances made observations respecting their
characters : —
1. Mr. Joshua Horton, a useful man. He died April 7th, 1679,
aged 60. — 2. JMrs. Martha Horton, wife of the above. She died
at her son's house at Chaderton, and was buried at Sowerby, July
27, 1694.— 3. Mr. John Greenwood. — 4. Mrs. Greenwood, wife
of the above. She died at Sowerby, and was buried Nov. 29,
1677 — 5. Mr. Richard Biackett. He was a pious man and a
N 2
180 LIFE or THE IlEV. O. HEYWOOD.
The first tiine this truly catholic church manifested
their mutual affection for the Redeemer in celebrating
the christian passover, was July 14th, 1672, when
about sixty communicants of this infant church were
present. " The day before," says Mr. H. " God helped
me exceedingly to plead with him for conversion work,
and for the souls of adversaries. O what a melting
season it was to me ! On the Lord's day we had that
sweet and solemn ordinance of the Lord's supper, after
the rest of the people were gone ; and though I cannot
but say God helped me in preaching and prayer all
day, yet I did not find so much of the divine presence
in that sealing ordinance as I have sometimes done :
what the reason was I know not, but desire to inquire.
Perhaps the Lord saw that I trusted too much to my
preparation ; or, that I entertained proud, vain, and
self-conceited thoughts of the numerous increase of our
society, and the union of another church ; or, perhaps
the people had too high expectations from me, which
God was determined to disappoint : fain would I know
the cause, that I may be humbled. It is true, God
helped me with suitable and abundant expressions ;
but I was conscious of vain distracting thoughts. The
solid Christian, and often joined with us. He died near Halifax,
and was buried in Holdsworth's Works, Nov. 8, 1677) aged 73. — 6.
Mrs. Root, widow of Mr. Root. — 7- Josiah Stansfield. — 8. IMartha
Stansfield, his wife. — 9. Mr. John Hodgson. — 10. I\Irs. Sarah
Hodgson. — 11. John Learoyd. He was formerly a member with
lis, but upon discontent went to Mr. Root, but returned again and
continued with us till his death, IMarch 28, 1G76. He left good
evidences of his safe condition. — 12. William Hurd. He also
had been with us, but now returned, and again left us in 1682
13. John Smith was an aged Christian, one of Sir. CoUier's con-
verts. I discoursed with him on his death-bed, and hope he was
a good man. He v.ent to his rest 1673. — 14. Mary Smith, wife
of the above. She also is gone to her long home 15. Mrs. Ellen
Drake, a widow living at the Swan Inn, Halifax.
UNDER THE PROTECTION OF A LICENSE. 181
Lord's will be done ; only as it is sin in me, so it is
matter of humiliation."
The labours of Mr. H. at this time were very abun-
dant, his ministry was numerously attended, and was
crowned with much success. On one Lord's day this
summer, he mentions : " There was a multitude of
people in the forenoon, and God graciously affected my
heart in prayer. In the afternoon the numbers were
so increased that many were obliged to stand out of
doors ; and though there came a heavy shower, and
the people were very wet, yet they continued at the
window. The rooms were excessively crowded, so that
the people trod one upon another. We want room
exceedingly." Besides his stated ministrations to the
congregation that assembled at his own house, he em-
braced every opportunity of preaching elsewhere, both
in the neighbourhood of Coley, and in distant places,
for which he obtained various licenses. The following
is a literal copy of the license he procured for preach-
ing at John Butterworth's in ^Varley :*
(Seal.) CHARLES R
Chari.es by the Grace of God, King of England,
Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith,
&c. To all Mayors, Baylifls, Constables, and other
Oui' Officers and Ministers, Civil and Military, whom
it may concern. Greeting. In pursuance of Our De-
claration of the 15th of March, 167|. We do hereby
permit and license Olever Hey wood of y^ Presbyterien
Perswation to be a Teacher of the Congregation allowed
by Us in a Roome or Roomes in the house of John
Butterworth in ye parish of Hallifax in y^ County of
Yorke for the Use of such as do not conform to the
* A Fac-simile of the Original will be found prefixed to the
second volume.
I8SI LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
Church of England, who are of the Perswasion com-
monly called Presbyterien — With further license and
permission to him the said Oliver Heywood to teach
in any other place licensed and allowed by Us, accord-
ing to Our said Declaration. Given at Our Court at
Whitehall, the 25th day of July — in the 24th year of
Our Reign, 1672.
By His Majesties Command.
ARLINGTON
Faint as the hope was, that the liberty enjoyed by
the Nonconformists at this time would be of long con-
tinuance, there were several young men in, various
places, whose hearts were so much set on the work of
the ministry, that they embraced the earliest oppor-
tunity of entering the Lord's vineyard by the solemn
rite of ordination. Such conduct under present cir-
cumstances was a pleasing evidence of their faith and
zeal, and a sacred pledge to the ejected fathers, that
the cause of the Redeemer would be maintained in the
v/orld, when they had entered the joy of their Lord.
At the close of this summer we find Mr. H. attending
one of these pleasing solemnities. " Oct. 28th, Mr.
Dawson and I went into Lancashire. The day after
according to appointment we kept a private fast on an
extraordinary occasion, in my cousin Eaton's study in
Deansgate, Manchester.* It v/as for ordaining and set-
ting apart to the work of the ministry, Mr. Jos, Daw-
* ]\Ir. Eaton was ejected from Walton in Lancashire in 1660.
Afterwards he became chaplain to Lord Delamere, and when the
liberties of the Dissenters were established by law, he preached
at Stand near Manchester. He died in Aug. 1710, aged 54. INIr.
Matt. Henry mentions his death, and observes, that in him the
church of God lost a person of great learning and integrity ; tliat
he was very much superior to most of his brethren ; but that he
was a moot humble, condescending, and alTcctionaic frieiid.
UNDER THE PROTECTION OF A LICENSE. 183
son, Mr. Sam. Angier, and Mr. John Jollie. Cousin
Eaton began with prayer, and Mr. Finch followed.*
Then I went to prayer, wherein my heart was exceed-
ingly affected, confessing ministerial sins, and begging
mercy for the persons to be ordained, ourselves, and
children devoted to God. My father Angier required
Mr. Dawson to make a confession of his faith, and
asked him the usual questions ; after which he prayed
over him with imposition of hands. Mr. Newcome
did the same to my cousin Angier ;f and Mr. Eaton
to Mr. Jollie. Then Mr. Newcome spoke from 1 Tim,
iv. 12, and gave them a solemn charge ; he afterwards
prayed and pronounced the blessing. It was a sweet
and solemn day ; a hopeful budding of Aaron's rod
after a sharp winter. Blessed be the Lord."
The zeal of the pious Nonconformists in this respite
from suffering, could not fail to excite the rage and
enmity of their opponents, who gnashed with their
teeth, and sought every possible opportunity to trouble
and vex those, they could not now openly persecute.
Dr. Hook, vicar of Halifax, had frequently manifested
a violent spirit of hostility against Mr. Heywood, and
his disposition did not alter with time or change of
circumstances. " He desired," says Mr. H. " to have
a sight of my licenses, and I sent them by J. Priestley.
He made excuses and endeavoured to pick a quarrel ;
* Mr. Finch on his ejectment retired to Warrington^ and after-
wards to Manchester, which not being a corporation was a com-
mon resort for many ejected ministers. In 1672 he preached at
Birch chapel, and continued his labours in that neighbourhood till
his sickness which terminated in death, Nov. 13th, 1704, in the
72nd year of his age.
t JMr. Newconae was ejected from the Collegiate church at Man-
chester by the Bartholomew act. He was a man of the most emi-
nent character and abilities. Mr. Henry calls him, the prince of
preachers. See his life and sermons in Select Nonconformists'
Remains.
184 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
but seeing that would do no good, he said, tell Mr.
Hey wood, I want my dues for nine or ten years. He
said also, I had nothing to do with preaching; but
if I would preach I might go abroad where there was
work, for there was no need here. He charged us
with setting up altar against altar, making separations,
and rendering their preaching contemptible. He told
many egregious falsehoods concerning us, saying, we
would not hear him, or if we did, it was to catch his
words ; he said also that in my meeting place some
walked, others talked, and some slept, &c. May the
Lord rebuke this accuser of the brethren." Many in-
stances are noticed of the vicar's persecuting spirit,
among which is the following : — " Mr. Horton* having
erected a meeting-place at Sowerby,and having procured
a license, desired me to begin a weekly lecture on Tues-
day, May 6th, 1673, which accordingly I did. He
purposed obtaining the help of some other neighbour-
ing ministers. I preached on Psal. Ixxxvi. 17, 'Show
me a token for good.' The Lord affected many hearts,
which I considered as a token for good ; but Satan is
always busy when any good work is carrying on. Dr.
Hook was so much offended, that on the Saturday fol-
lowing he sent Mr. Horton the following letter : —
Sir, I hoped to have met you with your minister on
IVednesday at our church, and afterwards with your
brethren the Feoffees of I\Ir. Nathaniel Waterhouse at
the Lecturer's ; but I suppose you were so full with
your four hours' exercise at the dedication of your new
built cottage (as you formerly called it,) now turned
into a synagogue, that you could not digest the prayers
* ]\Ir. Horton was formerly one of Mr. Root's church at Sower-
by, but had lately joined the church at Northowrara. ]Mr. Hey-
>vood in the Northowram Register speaks of him " as a pious man,
a justice of the peace, who had i,^1000 a year."
UNDER THE PllOTECTION OF A LICENSE. 185
of our church, and a sermon there the next day. Had
I seen you then, or foreseen your designed meeting, I
shoukl have been so bold, (as my pastoral duty binds
me,) to liav« asked your authority. To that end I in-
tended to wait on you at your inn to-day, but your
being gone home, I have sent after you this messenger
on the same errand. If you have authority I desire
you to show it, and that before the next meeting, which
I hear is to be on Tuesday next ; and then I have done :
but if you have not, I require you to desist. Your act,
however you judge it, is a sin, a scandal, a schism, a
danger, and so you will find, perhaps sooner than you
expect. If you should please in thankfulness to God,
who hath increased your estate, to express your pious
charity, you may do it more piously in making an
addition to the chapel at Sowerby. I give you this
timely intimation and caution in christian charity^ and
expect your present answer.'
" This honest gentleman, being a member of our
society, and the Lord's supper being administered the
day after, at night, when all was done, he read this
letter, and begged our advice. We thought it was best
to show his license to Justice Farrer, and send an an-
swer which he had written; it was indeed a very
sober reply to so angry a letter. How it will take,
God knows, but certairdy there is little reason to find
fault with his slighting public ordinances, for he at-
tends daily at Sowerby, except when he comes to us
about once a month ; and he is not behind in his con-
tribution, for he gives Mr. Booker, the minister there,
£8. a-year, besides ten shillings a sermon to the mi-
nisters who preach the lecture at his meeting-place.
Blessed be God that hath raised up any to consult and
promote the welfare of souls in this evil time. May
the good hand of our God be upon us for good, that
186 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
the work may not cease. We wait on God for the
result of this affair."
" Nov. 10th, 1673. There came an apparitor from
York, and another from Halifax, and apprehended two
of our members upon a writ de excommunicato ca-
piendo. The occasion whereof was their refusing to
take the church-warden's oath, though they faithfully
served the office. When they were excommunicated
(as it is called) they consulted with us what to do.
Fearing this capias, we desired them to send to York
and get it off, if a little money would do it ; but our
godly vicar had put in a bar in the way, so that they
are now taken to York castle ; God Almighty go with
them. We had a solemn day of prayer at W. Clay's
the day on which they were taken, and so sent them
away with prayer." Dr. Hook's opposition against
Mr. Heywood and his friends did not excite a spirit of
revenge, but called forth the most difficult christian
grace into exercise — that of forgiving injuries. Mr.
Heywood has left the following note in his diary :
*' God helped me to wrestle in prayer with some faith
and tears, particularly for Dr. Hook, that God would
liumble his heart, pardon his sin, and make use of hira
for the good of sinners."
The disposition manifested by the vicar of Halifax
was not peculiar to him, there were many in the country
who embraced every opportunity of perplexing the
Nonconformists, and disturbing their religious as-
semblies. Mr. H. records the following instance : —
"Jan. 2nd, 1673,1 joined with Mr. Richardson* in
* IMr. Richardson was ejected from Kirk-Heaton, after which
he retired to his own house at Lassel-hall. Here, besides preach-
ing on the Lord's days, he kept up a monthly lecture, in which he
was assisted by several of his neighbouring brethren. Afterwards
he went to Liverpool, and preached alternately at that place and
Toxteth-park. His preaching was accurate, plain, and popular.
UNDER THE PllOTECTION OF A LICENSE. 187
an exercise at Lassell-hall. Abundance of people came,
and when Mr. R. was preaching, Sir John Kay's ser-
vant pressed through the crowd, and inquired if he had
a license to preach there. Mr. R. answered him
smartly and went on, and the man withdrew. I con-
fess I was somewhat affrighted at the thought of his
coming when I should be preaching. When Mr. R.
had finished I succeeded, and while I was preaching
the man came again and demanded if we had licenses.
Mr. R. sharply said, What authority have you to in-
quire ? He replied, His master Sir J. Kay had sent
him. He then commanded us both in the king's name
to go with him ; and, having produced his warrant, I
gave him mild words, and promised to go when we had
done oui' work. He stood by, and I went on with
my sermon, God graciously helping me. When we
had finished we went with him and two of Sir John's
liverymen. When we entered the hall, we found many
waiting men, and some playing at cards at the table.
At last Sir John came, and asked us if we had any li-
censes, saying, His majesty hath graciously encouraged
conformists, and indulged his other subjects that pre-
tend conscience in not conforming ; but his princely
clemency had been abused in many places ; therefore
he hath sent us express orders to inquire after persons'
licenses. We told him we had a license for the place
with us, but licenses for our persons were at home.
He demanded a sight of what we had, and so far he
was satisfied ; but required a sight of the others also.
We requested time, and he gave us till Saturday. Thus
God's gracious providence hath wrought for us, so that
we can look v/ith confidence upon authority, having
and his knowledge of the scriptures so great, that he was able to
analyze and expound a chapter, on a sadden call in the families he
visited. He died in Dec. 1698, aged about 80.
188 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
authority for what we do ; blessed be God. I cannot
but observe how hostile the devil is against preaching,
when he promotes feasting, drinking, and revelling."
When Mr. PI ey wood's two sons were about seven-
teen years of age, and had received that instruction
which the best schools in the neighbourhood afforded,
their father resolved on sending them to Mr. Frank-
land in Westmoreland, who may be considered as the
first tutor of the earliest dissenting academy. The
anxious concern Mr. H. experienced on this occasion,
will appear from the solemn manner in which he now
afresh devoted them to the service of God. " My sons
being to go abroad for learning next week, I took them
with me," he says, " to three private fasts this week ;
and Thursday, May 15th, 1673, was such a day as we
have seldom had. I purposely appointed to seek God this
day on their behalf, and he wonderfully helped all his
servants to plead for them. About the middle of the
day I called them both forth, before the company, and
asked them several questions, as to what calling they
chose ? With tears they both answered, the ministry.
I asked them, for what end ? and told them they might
suffer persecution, and must not dream of honour there-
in, or of living like gentlemen. They replied, their
oniy end was to glorify God and win souls. I marked
John's words, he said, he desired to do God more ser-
vice than any of his ancestors. I asked them, what
they desired Mr. Dawson and the rest of God's servants
should pray for, on their behalf ? Eliezer spoke first,
and said, that God would give them grace and gifts,
forgive their sins of childhood, and loss of time, make
them studious, and keep them from temptation and
sinful company. John's answer was much of the same
nature. They both wej)t exceedingly, and so did the
whole company. Then I solemnly gave them up to
UNDER THE PROTECTION OF A LICENSE. 189
God in his work. Those that went to prayer read also
a portion of scripture. W. B. read 1 8am. i. on dedi-
cating Samuel to God. Mr. Dawson read Gen. xxviii.
respecting Isaac sending away his son Jacob. R. R.
read Prov. iii, on getting and prizing wisdom. Mr.
Hodgson Gen. xlviii. from 8th verse to the end. When
he came to those words, ' The angel which redeemed
me from all evil, bless the lads,' the tears stopped him
and he made a solemn pause ; and we all wept. I read
and briefly expounded 1 Chron. xxviii. containing
David's charge to Solomon about building the temple.
God helped us all in prayer. O what a flood of tears !
What pleadings with God ! I can scarcely remember
the like. Blessed be God ; it is a token for good. I
wait to hear what God will speak to all these things ;
surely he will speak peace. O that I and mine may
not return to folly. Ebenezer !"
A minister whose labours are 'confined generally or
almost constantly within the sphere occupied by the
members of a single congregation, may often remain
long a stranger to the success of his efforts to promote
the spiritual and eternal welfare of men. Some in-
stances of the happy result of his faithful services may
at times come to his knowledge, which encourage him
to persevere in the unwearied discharge of his mini-
sterial duties ; while he waits for that period emphati-
cally styled the day of the Lord Jesus, which will re-
veal the extent of his usefulness. But what may we
suppose would be the highly important consequences
of Mr. Heywood's zealous and incessant exertions,
which were not limited to a narrow sphere ? conse-
quences which must have been very imperfectly known
to him in this world, where we see but through a glass
darkly ? As far as twenty miles from his residence in
every direction (and the circle might be widened in
190 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
perfect accordance with truth,) he Jike his divine
Master went about indefatigably doing good. In some
cases he might ascertain the fruit of his labour, but
that we have reason to conclude would be far short of
the real amount. About the time when Mr. Heywood
finished his itinerant services, or not long after, places
of worshijj were erected by the Nonconformists, not
only at Leeds, Bradford, Halifax, and^Vakefield, prin-
cipal towns in the West Riding of Yorkshire, but also
dissenting chapels were built in the adjacent villages,
at Warley, Sowerby, Eastwood, Mixenden, Kipping,
Bingley, Idle, Pudsey, Cleckheaton, Heckraondwike,
Topcliff, and Hopton, besides the chapel at North-
owram, and another at Morley venerable for its anti-
quity, which at that period fell into the hands of dis-
senters. Within the district in which those towns
and villages are situated, Mr. H. for many years as
often as he had opportunity, and when trying circum-
stances permitted him, distributed to thousands the
bread of life, moved with compassion for them in their
deplorable circumstances, when suffering not from a
famine preying upon the body, but a famine which
threatened the life of the soul : and there can be no
doubt of his labours having contributed greatly to the
formation of dissenting societies, at the places just
now enumerated. These observations have been sug-
gested by the following extract : —
" June 23, 1673. Some friends were with me from
about Woodkirk, when J. Hoppindale told me (as he
expressed himself) for my encovu'agement, that most
of the persons who had been admitted into Mr. Mar-
shall's* church of late years, when delivering then'
* ]Mr. Christoplier IMarshall was a congregationalist ; a good
scholar, of considerable abilities, and of a serious spirit, but in-
clined to melancholy, on account of many personal and domestic
UNDEH THE PROTECTION OF A LICENSE. 191
experience, have signified that the first work of grace
in their souls was through my ministry in these sad
and silencing times. Indeed I am willing to believe,
that God drew me forward to preach abroad at
Hunslet, Bramley, Farsley, Pudsey, Morley, and Idle,
in public, when multitudes of people flocked together
to hear, and were affected ; at a time when none did
or durst venture on the important work of preaching
the gospel ; also in private houses in various places.
My heart was wonderfully impressed and enlarged in
those times, and I now hear of some fruit ; I hope
there is more not yet discovered. Blessed, blessed be
my God !"
Mr. Heywood, during this period of liberty, was ac-
tively employed in public labours ; but the following
occasional covenants prove that, while he paid atten-
tion to the cause of Zion in general, he did not neglect
the progress of vital religion in his own soul.
*' Having the opportunity of secresy, and having to
dispense and partake of the Lord's supper to-morrow,
I have this afternoon, Feb. 1, 1673, been setting
myself to examine my conscience, renew my faith and
repentance, and pour out my soul before God. Having
experienced some degree of enlargement, I am pressed
in spirit to lift up my hand to the Most High, and
bind myself to the Lord in a further vow of self-dedi-
cation to him."
" Infinite Jehovah ! It is no small encouragement to
this poor, sinful creature, that I live under a covenant
afflictions. Being ejected from Woodkirk, in 1662, he lived pri-
vately near his people in a house of his own. Upon the passing
of the Five-mile Act, he went to live at Horbury, but returned
and preached privately. In 1672, he preached at Topcliff-hall.
He was accused and imprisoned on account of a plot, with several
of his brethren ; but they came off clear, nMhing being proved
against them.~-^Noncoiiformis^s' Memorial, vol. 3, page 455.
192 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
of grace, and not of works, wherein, though I sin, as
thou knowest, to the grief of my heart, repentance is
not unavailable, nor the sentence irreversible ; but an
appeal is admitted from the bench of justice to the
throne of grace, from the law to the gospel, from
Moses to Christ ; God himself, even thou, my Father,
haying provided a plank after shipwreck, and a city of
refuge to secure my poor, trembling soul : according
to this blessed covenant, I return to thee this day after
my backslidings. It grieves me that I have grieved
thy Spirit by deadness, distraction, pride, unbelief,
worldliness, hyj^ocrisy, and formality. I here pros-
trate myself at thy footstool, acknowledging thy jus-
tice, if thou condemn me, adoring thy free grace, if
thou receive me; and who knows but God will accept.
O that ever it should enter thy heart to send thy Son
to redeem sinners ! O that overflowing love should
provide a surety to pay the debt of bankrupts ! I
accept it. Lord, with a hearty welcome ; I acquiesce
in this thy way, and will seek for no other to secure
my precious soul. My soul embraceth a dear Saviour
in the arms of my faith. Welcome Christ with his
yoke ! Welcome the cross of Christ ! O that my soul
may come to Christ aright ! I am willing to part
with the world, sensual gratifications, and all for
Christ, and to give up myself to Christ. I have no
other Saviour, no other Sovereign ; the Lord my Righ-
teousness is the Lord my Judge ; the Lord my King
will save me. Dear Lord Jesus ! thou art my hope,
my help, my light, and life ; thy name is as ointment
poured forth, therefore my soul loveth thee, my heart
goeth after thee ; I have none in heaven or earth be-
sides thee ; thou art the Sun of righteousness, thy
grace alone heals me, thy beams enlighten me, thy
rays refresh me ; if thou withdrawest, my spirit
UNDER THE PROTECTION OF A LICENSE. 193
faints. Whom should I admire but thee ? To whom
should I give up myself but unto thee ? Here I am.
Lord, devoted to thy fear, thy servant, the son of thine
handmaid, thou hast loosed my bonds. My person,
and all I have are thine ; yea, I look upon it as my
greatest privilege to be the Lord's devoted servant.
Lord, if thou hast given this worthless worm any gifts,
I will not use them to get myself credit, but thee glory.
No matter what men think or speak of me, so that
they have exalted thoughts of God. Let me disappear,
that the eyes of men may be fixed on the Lord. My
house, and goods, and all I have, are at thy service ;
I proclaim liberty to thee to do with all I have what
seemeth good to thee. If I may glorify thee better
without than with these things, I am as willing to be
deprived of them as ever I was to receive them. My
wife, children, and all my comforts, are more thine
than mine. I am but a steward, these are borrowed,
and when my Master calls, I will freely let all go for
thy sake and pleasure. I despise all things in compa-
rison of, or competition with, my dear Lord Jesus.
What is this world to the pearl of great price, the
Mediator of the new covenant ? My soul even scorns
and hates these poor inconsiderable things, that I may
win Christ and be found in him. ' I have sworn, and
I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judg-
ments.' I have renewed my covenant, taken the
bounty money, given my hand, and, through grace,
my soul desires to stand to it, to be the Lord's, and
only his. I am more the Lord's than my own. O
that I could be more for God than for myself! I
must, and, through grace, will take more pains in my
study, be more at the throne of grace, and preach with
vol.. I. , o
194 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD,
more compassion for poor souls. Lord, say, Amen;
and give success to
*' Thy worthless servant,
♦'OLIVER HEYWOOD."
Begun, Feb. \st, |
Ended, Feb. 3rd, j-^*^'^'
The following" covenant engagement was entered
into, Dec. 8th, 1673, at a time, when Mr. Hey wood
.suspected the increase and prevalence of Popery in
this country, and while it expresses his firm persua-
sion of the truth of the gospel, shows his willingness
to endure any degree of persecution to which the pro-
fession of liis faith might expose him.
" My glorious and gracious Sovereign ! My parents
presented me to thee in baptism in infancy, wherein I
was enlisted as thy soldier, to fight under the banner
of the Captain of my salvation, against Satan, the
world, and the flesh. When I came to years of dis-
cretion, and was under convictions, which were, I
hope, by thy Holy Spirit, I again personally renewed
that covenant by a solemn self-resignation to the Lord,.
giving my hand, and therein I hope my heart, to that
good God who gave his Son for me, and hath given
himself, his Son, and Spirit to me ; and I never had
cause to repent of this engagement. The more I have
tasted the Lord's goodness, the more have I been con-
firmed in my choice ; and the more sincerely I have
waited on God, the more hath my soul tasted his love.
And now, being under sad apprehensions of approach-
ing i^ersecutions from popish adversaries, not knowing
what things will befall me betwixt this and the grave,
I here, once again, enlist myself as a volunteer under
thy sacred colours, to war a good warfare. I do pur-
pose, by thy grace, to adhere to the true reformed
tJNnEll THE PROTECTION OF A LICENSE. 1^5
Protestant religion, to contend earnestly for tlie faith
once delivered to the saints, yea, to resist unto blood,
striving against sin. My full purpose of heart is, to
cleave to the Lord, whatever it may cost me. Behold,
I am ready, by the assistance of thy grace, to lose
father and mother, wife and children, brethren and
sisters, houses and lands, all my outward comforts,
credit, liberty, and whatever is dear to me, for thy
sake and the gospel's. ' Thou, who art the searcher of
hearts, knowest that I count not my life dear to me,
so that I may finish my course with joy, and the
ministry I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify
the gospel of the grace of God. By the strength of
God, I will keep on in my work and way, in the
duties of prayer, preaching, and all christian exercises,
and neglect no opportunity to serve my God, and save
souls ; and though I would do God's work prudently,
yet God forbid, that a pretence of prudence should
prevent faithfulness. Though I be not worthy of the
high and transcendent honour of being a martyr for
my dear Saviour, yet my present prayer and purpose
are, that I may not deny his name ; but, if he call me
to it, may witness a good confession, by continuing
in the things which I have learned and been assured
of, knowing of whom I have learned them. I design,
by thy grace, to hold fast and hold forth in my place
the word of God's patience, let the Lord do with me
what seemeth good in his eyes. Come life, come
death, I am the Lord's. Welcome Christ with a cross!
Welcome a fiery chariot to mount into my Father's
palace ! "Welcome reproach for the sake of Christ !
Let him be magnified in my body, whether it be by
life or death. If I be off'ered as a sacrifice to serve
the faith of the church, I shall rejoice let what will
o 2
196 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
come, so that I may enjoy my Lord Christ. As, through
grace, I have thankfully suffered a short imprison-
ment for God, and, as I can say it sincerely, I have
suffered joyfully the spoiling of my goods ; so I hope,
I can comfortably believe, my God will help me not to
love my life unto death, for this gospel I have pro-
fessed and preached. But, O my God, I am sensible
of the frailty of my flesh, the treachery of my heart,
and the temptations of Satan, and I am assured, if thou
shouldst leave me, I shall certainly fall as Peter did ;
therefore I flee to thy all-sufficient grace ; thou alone
art able to make me stand. Support and strengthen
this weak and worthless worm. It is not any mea-
sure of gifts, learning, resolution, or received grace
that can support me, it is nothing but thy assisting
and corroborating grace. Though I cannot dispute
for the truth, yet thou canst make me both dispute and
die for Christ. Though of myself I can do nothing,
yet by the strength of Christ, I shall be able both to
do and endure all things. Lord, support me with wis-
dom, courage, zeal, fidelity, and all heroic christian
graces, to pass through dangers and difficulties, and, if
called to such a trial, to seal thy truth with my heart's
blood. So voweth and prayeth,
" Thy resolved servant,
"OLIVER HEYWOOD."
PART VI.
Licenses threatened to be taken away — Parliament prorogued — Li-
censes revoked — Mr. Heywood's conduct on the occasion — His Per-
severatice in Labours — Grateful Recollections — Parental anxiety
— Death of Relatives, Mr. Rich. Heywood, Rev. John Angier,
Rev. Nath. Heywood — Self-examination — Mr. Heywood appre-
hended at Shaw chapel — Thanksgiving day — Extracts from his
Diary — Sickness of Mrs. and Eliezer Heywood — Covenant re-
newed — Another Excommmication — Ordination of Timothy Jollic
— Mr. H's. successful Labours — Repeated illness of Eliezer Hey-
wood — The death of an ungodly Preacher — Review of 1681 —
■ Severities exercised — Spiritual Journeys — Visit to London — Deli-
verances from Dangers — Disinterested Labours — Mr. Heywood's
Apprehension and Trial — His Perplexity — Imprisonment in York
Castle — Prison Employment — His Liberation — Renewal of his
Labours.
The liberty enjoyed in consequence of the licenses,
was considered by many of the Nonconformists as very
precarious, and so it proved. The parliament was
displeased with the king for granting them, because it
was an unlawful stretch of the royal prerogative. In
February 1673, the House of Commons voted the
king's declaration illegal, and he promised it should
not be brought into a precedent. " In this tickle junc-
ture," says Mr. H. " God furnished his servants with
a subject for prayer. The king to gratify the parlia-
ment, tore off the seal from the licenses, upon which
our adversaries began to threaten us and execute
penalties. Some ministers about Manchester gave over
their public work, and most were at a loss what to do.
The king called the judges to consult with them on
198 LU'E 01' THE llEV. O. HEY WOOD.
the case. They put him in mind of his promise to
the parliament not to draw the practice into a precedent,
yet told him all offices depended on him, and that he
might show his displeasure at the severity of the justices
by taking away their commissions. Accordingly when
one Mr.Hicks,* a Nonconformist minister, was disturbed
and fined, he rode up to the king, who not only granted
an order for the recovery of his goods, but also for tak-
ing away the commissions of the justices who were
active in the business. Upon this information the
ministers went to their work again ; blessed be God."
Every sincere friend to the British Constitution must
detest the servile spirit of these judges, and the arbi-
trary conduct of this monarch, yet we cannot wonder
that the persecuted Nonconformists embraced the op-
portunity of exercising their natural rights, in their
conscientious worship of God.
At this time, as Mr. H. justly observes : " All things
were on the wheel of change, especially concerning
the affairs of the nation. The parliament," he says,
*' hath been sitting at the stern above twelve years ;
but behold a strange and incredible alteration amongst
them. Their late votes speak astonishing change in
the members. They that were all for the king's pre-
rogative have gone to the other extreme, have called
some great men in question, have appeared violent
against the Papists, and passed many votes for the poor
Nonconformists. But while they were proceeding
with most energy in making tliose unexpected changes
in which they designed something for the good of the
* ]Mr. Hicks was a native of Yorkshire, and educated at Trin.
Col. Dublin, He was ejected from Saltash, in Cornwall, and
afterwards settled at Portsmouth, preaching as oppoi'tunity per-
mitted. Unhappily he was induced to unite with the followers
of the Duke of IMonmouth, and thereby was brought to suffer on
the scaffold, (ice the Nonconformist's Menu vol. i. page 368 — 370.
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 199
nation, all on a sudden they have been prorogued from
Feb. 24th to Nov. 10th, 1674, and afterwards to April
13th, 1675, so that there is an end to their proceed-
ings. And what ! are you also become weak as we ?
You stopped our mouths from preaching, and now
yours are stopped from voting ! You turned us out of
our houses and out of God's house ; and now you are
turned out of the parliament house ! You caused us
to be put in fear, and punished us for doing God's
work ; and now you are put in fear by potent adver-
saries, and made incapable of acting for the good of the
nation ! How comes this to pass ? Do not you see the
righteous hand of God in these wonderful revolutions?
O that these things may pierce your hearts, awaken
your consciences, and excite a spirit of repentance ! But
how comes it to pass that your minds are thus changed?
What caused you to mince the matter or alter any thing
in the act of uniformity ? Time was when you would
not vote an ace of perfect conformity away ; now you
can dispense with the cross in baptism, subscription, de-
claration, and renouncing of the covenant. &c. ! Are
these things less necessary now than formerly ? Doth
your zeal for the prelutical church slacken ? Are you
afraid of the common enemy, the Papists ? Or is it an
act of policy to unite all parties, and secure yourselves?
Or are you at last convinced of the great increase and
danger of overspreading popery ? Or do you discern
the loyalty, peaceableness, and usefulness of the Noncon-
formist ministry and people ? Who hath opened your
eyes ? Surely our God to whom we have prayed. We
know whence this comes ; but we are not ready for the
mercy, nor is the nation in a fit posture for reformation.
Lord, what wilt thou do with us ? What will be the
issue of these things ? Thou knowest the contrivances
of men, and the whole nation are at a stand, expecting
200 LIFE OF THE KEV. O. HEYWOOD.
the result of these surprising changes. God Almighty,
put to thy helping hand, take thy place and appear at
the helm ; awake, why sleepest thou, O Lord ? Con-
vince the great ones of the earth that they stand in
slippery places, and lead them to the rock of ages.
Let them see their true interest is bound up in thine,
and that what runs counter to thee cannot stand. The
greatest favourites may be soon driven from the pre-
sence and services of mortal, changeable princes, or fall
imder the censures of the ambitious, the designs of
their rivals, or the rage of the unruly mob. O my
soul, there are better honours than what hang on the
lips, or conceits of men ; there is an honour that comes
from God only. Great men often change their places,
but seldom move nearer to God. The only way to rise
is to fall ; and casting ourselves low at God's feet, is
tlie christian way of being received to the bosom of
God. Let men attend the pleasure of princes; but, my
soul, wait thou on God only. Let men advance in
the world ; do thou make progress in grace. While
men, like ants, are busily compassing the molehill of
the world, striving which shall be the highest, let it be
tiie height of thy ambition to prjss into the kingdom
of heaven. While many at this day are aiming to
make proselytes to increase their party, do thou en-
large thy desires and quicken thy endeavours to gain
souls to Christ, that at last thou mayest give up thy
account with everlasting satisfaction. In the mean
time, pity the great ones of the earth, -who have nothing
to comfort their hearts with when the favour of princes
fails, remembering what a great man once said ; ' If I
had been as careful to serve the great God of heaven
as my great master on earth, he would not have for-
saken me in my old age.'"
About the close of the year 167 -t, the king called
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 201
the bishops together, to consider what should be done
to serve the cause of religion, and, after various con-
sultations also with the ministers of state, he was ad-
vised to recall his licenses, and put the laws against
the Nonconformists in execution. This was soon after
done hy proclamation, and it was not long before Mr.
Hey wood felt its effects. Feb. 9th, 1675, having been
invited to preach at the new meeting-place in Leeds,
in giving a relation of his journey he thus writes :
" I set off from home, had studied, as I imagined, a
good sermon, and pleased myself in supposing what
an auditory I should get the day after, what satis-
faction I should give to good people, and how season-
able the text and subject were. As I rode along, I
checked myself in these proud conceits, and told the
Lord how just he would be in withdrawing himself,
and endeavoured to content myself if he should prevent
my preaching, or send wicked men to disturb me.
When I had come as far as Morley, I met a friend on
the road, who showed me the king's order for recalling
licenses and suppressing meetings. When I came to
Leeds we had a meeting at Mr. S — 's house to consult
about my preaching. They judged it expedient to for-
bear, partly because it was an order, and therefore in
force as soon as published, and partly because the
aldermen were exasperated by the Nonconformists'
conflict with them, and victory over them ; but parti-
cularly because they had told the mayor and aldermen,
that if the king called in his licenses they would for-
bear ; so I did not preach publicly, but delivered my
sermon to them privately at Mr. S — 's house that night.
There were great lamentations, for now we are left to
the rigour of the law, which is sad and severe enough.
This is the day our adversaries have expected, our
friends have feared, and we have deserved. We have
202 LIFE OF THE EEV. O. HEYWOOD.
known what it is to wander frora parish to parish,
seeking the word of the Lord, and God hath also laid
upon us great scarcity of natural food, so that clean-
ness of teeth and leanness of soul seem to go hand in
hand as uncomfortable companions. Woe unto us, for
we have sinned ! What multitudes flock to our doors
begging alms, and what multitudes of precious souls
are in danger of perishing for want of spiritual pro-
vision ! Lord Jesus, have compassion on this miserable
multitude that have nothing to eat ! When will the
Lord return ? When will these days of affliction and
persecution have an end ? How long, O Lord, wilt
thou forsake us for ever ? But is there not sufficient
cause ? May not God say, as to Joshua when pleading
for Israel ? * Wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face?
Israel have sinned, and they have also transgressed my
covenant.' Indeed this is the true cause of this heavy
blow. Oh for a spirit of reformation and repentance !
If our hearts were effectually turned, how soon would
God turn our captivity as the streams in the south.
Alas, how wofuUy do we complain of our sufferings,
and how little are we afflicted with our sins ! O that
we could learn not to put tinist in princes, nor in the
son of man in whom there is no help !"
Mr. Heywood had now the painful task of taking
leave of his people, not knowing that they should have
the opportvmity of again assembling for religious wor-
ship in a public manner. " The most heart-melting day
and exercise," he says, " that ever I remember was
Lord's day, Feb. 14th. The week before we received
the king's order for calling in licenses, and it was
judged fit we should cease preaching publicly. I there-
fore took my solemn farewell that day, preaching on
Rev. ii. 4, 5. At the close I gave my reasons, and
some advice. The occasion excited the tenderest feel-
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 203
ings, and floods of tears, such as I never witnessed in
all my life in public. I promised my best assistance
to them all in private. O that God would set the
stamp of his grace and Spirit on these warm sensations !
Who knows what good may be done by this closing
sermon ? However, these feelings are a token for good
and a presage of the Lord's gracious return. My rea-
sons for giving over public preaching are: — ] . Because I
would comply as far as I may, with the mind and plea-
sure of our rulers, that they may be convinced we are
peaceable, and to remove the imputation of sedition, of
which God knows we are not guilty. 2. Because the
parliament will shortly meet, who in the last session
were taking our case into consideration; and it is hoped
if we behave ourselves peaceably they may restore our
liberty by law. 3. The licenses not being according to
the established laws of the land, but by the king's pre-
i*ogative, it is feared by some they may prove of dan-
gerous consequence ; for if he may dispense with laws
on one account, he may also supersede them on some
other. 4. Several of my brethren elsewhere have given
over this public way of preaching, especially at Leeds,
where the people had acted nobly, and had laid out
£400. in building a meeting-place, besides Mr. Ness's
beyond the bridge. 5. Some of the brethren who have
been backward at preaching would censure and con-
demn me as obstructing their liberty if I had continued;
and I wish not to give any offence. 6. Because I would
not ensnare people, but let them know on what terms
we now are, that they might not lay the blame on me,
if hereafter any fine be laid upon them, but that they
may know the worst and count the cost. 7. Because
my people, especially the most intelligent advised me
to it, and judged it the most prudent course that could
be taken to withdraw into more retired meetings. 8.
204 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD,
I do not repent, because it was an affecting day. The
sad parting may do good, and as God hath met with
me in more retired seasons, so I hope he will hereafter
meet with me."
When the king's proclamation was issued, informers
took courage, and in many places persecution pre-
vailed ; but some justices were so honest and friendly,
as to declare, " they could not trade with their neigh-
bours one day, and send them to gaol the next." The
king's license was now of no benefit, but Mr. Hey-
wood had too high a sense of his allegiance to his
divine Sovereign, to forsake the cause of Christ when
it exposed him to danger. Prudence dictated, espe-
cially at the first, that the assemblies to which he
preached should be more private than before ; but he
cheerfully embraced every opportunity of dispensing
to them the word of salvation. " Though there are
threatenings, as to our liberty, on all hands," he ob-
serves, " and it is said, four hundred persons are sum-
moned to appear at Pontefract Sessions, this week, for
not going to church, and though I had taken my leave
of public work, yet yesterday, and most Lord's days
since the calling in of the licenses, I have preached in
my meeting place, and had nearly as numerous assem-
blies as before, without molestation ; blessed be my
good God. Though licenses from men are void, yet
our license from heaven is not out of date. O what
rich privileges have we enjoyed ! But Satan, envying
our precious enjoyments, hath gone another way to
work, by painful divisions among ourselves. The oc-
casion was small, but the effects were distressing. A
lad running away from his apprenticeship, produced
anger amongst intimate acquaintances. Affairs of
many years' date have been brought up with various
aggravations, which have engaged many of our society
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 205
in broils. O that ever I have lived to see this day !
For the divisions of Israel there have been sad thoughts
of heart. I am sure, that in me they have occasioned
great searchings of heart. I was never so much at a loss
how to conduct myself towards all as becometh the
gospel. How small a spark kindles a great fire ! How
little are the best of us able to brook reproaches !
How apt are we to avenge ourselves ! How hard is it
to conquer self, or cast out the old leaven of malice !
How apt to think we do well to be angry ! How im-
petuous and suspicious is unruly passion ! Prayer
and reason may allay it a little ; but what ungovern-
able returns doth it make ? In our j)assion, how ready
are we to unchristian each other, to bury all former
kindnesses, and to put an awkward face on former
conduct ! How strangely does prejudice interpret all
words and actions, though no harm was meant ! Lord,
what a swarm of wasps is lodged in the heart of man !
Who would have expected these things from some,
who once condemned themselves as the vilest part of
creation ! Reflection on our circumstances has made me
say, with David ' Help, Lord, for the godly man
ceaseth ; for the faithful fail from among the children
of men.' The God of heaven humble us by a spirit of
repentance, and pour upon us a spirit of recon-
ciliation."
Though Mr. H. was deeply afflicted, for some time,
by this internal contest, yet he and his people were
graciously preserved from the attacks of outward per-
secutions, though sometimes they had many alarms.
On one occasion, having dismissed the congregation
suddenly, through fear of danger, Mr. H. thus ex-
presses himself, "June 18th, 1676. Lord's day, while
I was at prayer, E. D. sent me a message to acquaint
me, that three men were coming to apprehend me. I
206 LIFE OF THE UEV. O. HEYWOOD.
knew not what to do, but dismissed the congregation
and withdrew to W. Clay's, which showed my
cowardice and pusillanimity. It is true, after those
men were gone by, we mustered the company and
proceeded again ; but my spirit was much discom-
posed in preaching. It was intended that there should
be preaching again at four o'clock, but people hung
about all that time, and some thought there was dan-
ger, so I forbore preaching that evening. When the
suspicious persons were gone, my heart was shut up
and much hardened, and God did apparently withdraw
from me, which greatly afflicted me. O M^hat a dis-
tracted and disappointed sabbath was it ! God had a
hand in it ; but I see my weakness, and desire repent-
ance and assistance for the future. On Monday morn-
ing, God melted my heart for these things."
The continued kindness of Gdd to Mr. Heywood
made deep impressions on his grateful heart, and he
records some pleasant meditations he had about this
time, on 2 Sam. vii. 20 ; while travelling to preach at
Alverthorp. " How sweetly," says he, " did God melt
my heart Avith a sense of his mercies toward me ! O my
soul, review the remembrance of them, and see what
fruit may fall from the tree at a second shaking. Let
me recount a little the kindnesses I have experienced
in my soul, body, estate, relations, and all that concerns
me. 1. For my soul, what hath God wrought for it
and in it ? God the Father hath shewn me special fa-
vour ; God the Son hath laid down his life to redeem
me ; God the Holy Spirit hath convinced, converted,
comforted, and established me. The Lord hath given
liimself to be my portion, granted me pardon of sin,
wrought saving grace in my heart, adopted me as his
child, quickened and enlarged me in duties, vouchsafed
to me communion with himself, assured me of future
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 207
glory, carried me graciously thus far towards heaven,
and will guide me by his counsel, and afterwards re-
ceive me to glory. And what could David say more ?
2. In my conjugal circumstances I have been highly
favoured, and my grateful acknowledgments are due
for the distinguishing kindness Providence has shown
me, in allotting me one and another companion to be
my solace amidst the trying scenes of my life. 3. God
has given me three sons, all living, only the youngest
lives with God in his immediate presence, having died
in infancy under the covenant. The other two have
been devoted to God from their childhood, as Samuel.
They are engaged in the service of the church, having
voluntarily chosen it, are comfortably circumstanced,
and profitably employed. They have made good pro-
ficiency, have conducted themselves hopefully, have
gifts and fitness for their work, and are very promising,
being under the covenant, and having a large stock of
prayers and tears laid uj) for them and still increasing.
And what could David say more ? ' Thou, Lord, know-
est thy servant,' and hast given hopes that my pos-
terity shall bear up thy name as well as mine for many
generations. 4. God hath blessed me as to public or-
dinances. He hath cast the lines for me in pleasant
places, given me a goodly heritage, and maintained
my lot. O the feast of fat things we have had while
others have been famishing ! Our eyes see what kings
and prophets desired ; our ears hear the joyful sound.
O the blessed days of the Son of man, the sabbaths of
rest, sermons, prayers, and ordinances we have enjoyed!
And what could David desire more, who wished to see
God's power and glory as he had seen them in the
sanctuary ? 5. God hath done more; he hath made me
a dispenser of the blessed gospel. He hath orderly
and suitably trained me up in advantageous place*
208 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
and under proper tutors. He hath honoured me with
gospel ordination, given me gifts for the work, made
me laborious and useful in it, and given nie a numer-
ous, obedient, and peaceable j^eople, and many gi*acious
souls. He hath granted me credit and honour among
God's people and others, and upheld me in my public
work, (notwithstanding much opposition on all hands)
these twenty-five years. And what could David, the
sweet singer of Israel say more? 'Thou, Lord, knowest
thy servant,' that more success of my poor labours is
all that I desire as my reward. 6. Yet once more, the
Lord hath vouchsafed me all outward, useful accom-
modations ; I want nothing that is necessary for me
in my circumstances. God hath given me the right
exercise of reason, comfortable health of body, a house
of my own to live in and entertain his people. He hath
given me a sufficiency to supply my wants, though
much of it from hand to mouth, suitable food and rai-
ment, a servant to attend me at home, and a horse to
carry me abroad, friends to receive me, employment to
occupy me, civil and spiritual liberty, a good report
among men, a study to retire to, a competent number
of useful books, disentanglement from worldly affairs,
all needful accommodations, and a heart to make a
moderate use of them. And what could David say
more? except that he was a potent prince, and I am a
poor preacher. Well, be it so; this state of life is fitter
for me on many accounts. ' Thou, Lord, knowest thy
servant,' that I would rather be a minister in the pul-
pit to convert souls, than a king on the throne to rule
over men. Farewell earthly crowns, welcome the cross
of Christ."
Many indeed were the mercies Mr. Heywood re-
ceived, and great was his enjoyment, yet he was also
a man of sorrows, and found that his path sometimes
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 209
lay throug'li a vale of tears. After his sons had been
for a season with Mr. Frankland, he sent them to the
University of Edinburgh, where they took the degree
of Master of Arts. During their continuance at this
place, he was alarmed by painful reports concerning
them, when afterwards, to his great joy, they proved
to be false ; but they naturally occasioned, for a time,
much anxiety and distress in the bosom of an affec-
tionate and pious parent. His feelings on those occa-
sions may be partly known by the following extracts :
" Jan. 26th, 1677. I went to Rawden-hall to preach,
where was a full assembly. Just as I was going to
begin, R. T. gave me a letter from B. of Bramhope,
which informed me of a report generally circulated in
the country, that ray two sons were both drowned in
Scotland. It troubled me at the moment; but having
other work before me, God put it out of my mind, and
helped me in prayer and preaching, only in the latter
part of my sermon, it overpowered me, and I was
ready to faint. Immediately after I had finished, I
went into the parlour, and inquired what had been
heard of it. J. Smith told me it had been reported
three weeks together. I despatched a messenger to Mr.
Whitaker, to inquire the grounds of that report ; but
he not being at home, I received no satisfaction.
When I went to bed, God melted my heart in secret
prayer, and I was much helped to say, ' The will of
the Lord be done.' O how sweet was it to lie at God's
feet ! I thought I could sleep and be satisfied ; but
the imaginations of my heart kept me awake most of
the night.* God helped me in the morning duty, but
* Painful as Mr. Heywood's feelings were on this occasion and
at other times, under similar circumstances, yet these troubles
were not without their spiritual benefit, and sixteen years after-
wards, he thus expresses himself when writing his Treatise, enti-
VOL. I. P
210 LIFE OF THE REV, O. HEYWOOD.
all the way home my heart was full, and in great sug-
jiense between hopes and fears. When I came to my
own gate, a boy called to me, and told me of a letter
from my sons, and when I came into my house and
read it, found that all was wdl with them. Blessed,
blessed be my God, who hath dispersed my fears."
On one occasion, he says : " O how little power
liave I over my own thoughts ! I feel the truth of
that word : ' When he giveth quietness, who then can
make trouble ? and when he hideth his face, who then
can behold him?' But now I feel the benefit of
prayer. In the multitude of my sad thoughts within
me, thy counsels and comforts, O Lord, delight my
soul. Thou hast known my soul in adversity, and
now I give up myself and mine unto thee, upon a new
score and renewed obligations. How things are, or
will yet be with my sons, I know not ; but thou hast
quieted my heart in the actings of faith and prayer,
in consequence of which, I do resolve, by thy grace,
tied, " The Best Entail :" " I have found that the miscarriage of
my child, which is the greatest cross I ever met with, hath been
blessed for the good of my soul, as a good woman said, ' Bearing
my children and my crosses has cost me deai', but I would not
be without either.' It is not fit that I should choose my affliction,
what God lays on me is welcome, and I will etseem Christ no worse
for his cross ; for I find these bitter waters the most medicinal,
and the sweetest fruits grow^ on this bitter tree. The depravity
of my child hath helped to make me better, and this heart-
breaking hath proved a heart-melting. True it is, that -wicked
men are hardened by seeing the children of the covenant thus
miscarry, (even as divisions and offences amongst God's people
are occasions of ruin, yea, even gospel-preaching is to some the
savour of death,) yet as God is just therein to them, so my soul
hath cause to bless the physician of souls, who so tempers this
poison as to make it salutary to me ; for my crosses are better
than their comforts. I will recommend religion, though I mourn
over my irreligious child, for godliness is gain, though even I gain
not grace for my child by it." — Vol. 4. p. 467-
PEilSECUTION RENEWED. 21 1
to call upon thee as long as I live, and trust in thy
covenant for my posterity. My sons are thine more
than mine, thou gavest them me, and I have given
them back again to thee, not only in the ordinance of
baptism, and many times since by prayers and tears,
but in a peculiar 'manner. May 15th, 1673, before
many witnesses. The remembrance of that day bears
up my heart with much encouragement, that God will
hear and answer in giving them grace. Lord, my
children are parts of myself, and in giving up myself
to thee, I have also given them ; and wilt thou not
accept this loan ? Is not thy covenant firm and free ?
May it not be made good to me, as well as to Abra-
ham or David ? If I had any thing better than my
own soul and the souls of my wife and children to
give thee, thou shouldst have it. Lord, are thy cove-
nant mercies worn out ? Hast thou but one blessing,
my Father ? Wilt thou begin to cut off the blessed
entail at the third generation ? Doth not thy promise
reach to a thousand generations of them that fear
thee ? O Lord, deal kindly with thy servant and his
seed ; notwithstanding, if there be iniquity in me,
scourge me thyself, for why shouldst thou leave mine
to the temptations of Satan and their own hearts' lusts?
Lord, shall children of so many prayers and tears
miscarry ? Wilt thou not take possession of thy own
right and thy Son's purchase ? I know that neither
my house- nor heart is so with thee as it ought to be ;
but thou hast made a covenant with me, ordered in all
things and sure ; this is all my salvation, and all my
desire, although thou make it not to grow. I must
needs say, I have broken the covenant by unbelief, im-
penitence, and failures, and thou mightest justly leave
my sons to walk in my steps. But doth not thy "cove-
nant provide a remedy ? Is there not pardon in the
P 2
212 LIFE 0¥ THE REV. O. HEVWOOD.
blood of Christ, for poor, penitent sinners ? If my
heart and house are out of order, yet thy covenant is
well ordered ; if my soul be fickle and inconstant, yet
thy covenant is sure and stedfast. Thou knowest, O
Lord, all my desires are before thee, and my groaning
is not hid from thee. Shouldst thou not make my
house to grow in numbers, estate, or honoiu', thou
knowest that is not my object and errand in my ad-
dresses to thee. Have I not told thee many a time, I
shall be freely content, if they be no richer than I have
been ; or to have no greater benefices in the church
than I have had, to be at a poor chapel (if God restore),
or to preach in a house to poor sinners, and convert
souls to God ? I would rather have them serious, ex-
perienced preachers, amongst a few despised servants
of God, than doctors or bishops in the highest eccle-
siastical promotions. Lord, leave them not to con-
form to ceremonies, or turn formalists, or become per-
secutors of thy people. Let it appear, there is a bless-
ing in their education in a private college, more than
in the public universities. I have committed them
more to thy tuition than man's ; and if thou wilt grant
them special, sanctifying grace, and useful gifts, and
learning to fit them for public work amongst thy peo-
ple, I will, by thy grace, bless thy name while I live ;
yea, I do solemnly purpose to devote a day in every
year to the exercise of solemn thanksgiving for that
mercy particularly, and to spend some time monthly
apart by myself to praise thy name. Lord, I hope my
heart is sincere in this solemn vow. Give me both a
heart and an occasion to pay these vows I now make
in the perplexity of my soul. Amen, amen.
"OLIVERUS HEYWOOD,
" Servus Domini."
Jan. 20. 1677-
PEIISECUTION RENEWED. 213
" The Lord having in some degree granted the
mercy, by sending my sons home in safety out of
Scotland, and they being studious and hopeful in re-
ference to religion, I did, according to my preceding
vow, appoint May 9th, 1677, as a day of solemn
thanksgiving to God, for his mercy displayed in all
their journeys and studies, at which time God did
graciously help us in singing and speaking to his
praise. Blessed be the Lord, it was not without some
signal appearance of his presence amongst us."
The year 1677 was a memorable year to Mr. Hey-
wood and his family, on account of the repeated visita-
tions of death. The first was the death of his aged
father Richard Heywood, on which occasion he thus
expresses himself: "At last God hath put an end to
the long and afflicted days of my dear, tender-hearted
father ; he died March 1st, aged about 82. I may say
of him as is recorded of Abraham, that ' he gave up
the ghost and died in a good old age, an old man and
full of years ; and was gathered unto his people :' and
as Isaac and Ishmael buried him in a cave, so my dear
brother and I buried our beloved father. O my soul,
hast thou not some tears to shed at the funeral of a
father ? Nature binds thee to some workings of affec-
tion, and grace helps to regulate them. Thou hast
parted with a father, and is this nothing ? God would
not have such a providence pass without observation
and improvement. Thou hast buried a father that
provided food and raiment for thee in thy younger
days, a father that was at great care and charge for
thy education, both in the best schools of the neigh-
bourhood and at the university ; but all this was small
compared with the inward and anxious workings of
his heart for thee, which thou didst never so feelingly
know till thou hast of late felt the same towards thy
214 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
own. O what instructions, exhortations, and admoni-
tions didst thou receive from him ! What prayers did
he put up for thee, and what grief did he feel at thy
failings ! What jealousy he had of me when he came
to visit me at Cambridge ! What charge did he leave
v/ith my tutor concerning me, and how gladly did he
welcome any hopes of my well-doing ! What solicitude
he had concerning my settlement ! And though he had
been at a great expense in my education, yet how fear-
ful was he lest I should enter the ministry unfit ! This
induced him to make provision for my residence in
Mr. Angier s family ; but Providence called me to this
place. Even then he did not leave me, but followed
me with his counsels and prayers to his dying day. O
what a father ! Few have the like ! Though I can truly
say, I have studied to requite him, and thought no-
thing I could do for him too much, in his straits, yet
I have fallen far short of a full recompence. He had
a tender love for me, and I hope the remembrance of it
will not quickly be worn av/ay from my mind. My
gracious Lord also hath not left me comfortless, con-
cerning my dear, deceased father. Blessed be God that
his hoary head was found in the ways of righteousness,
and that we have good reasons for hope that he sleeps
in Jesus, and will have a happy resurrection ; and
what can we desire more ? O Lord, raise up a suc-
cession of God-fearing worshippers ; and as thou hast
been my father's God, and my mother's God, and my
God, and the God of my dear companion now at rest,
so continue to be my God and guide to death, and be
the God of my children, and children's children, even
to a thousand generations."
About six months after the death of his father, he
was called to attend the funeral of his father-in-law
Angier, whom he loved as his own parent. The man-
rERSECUTION RENEWED. 215
ner in which he records the event shows how deeply
it affected him. " O sad catastrophe ! dreadful blow
to Zion and my family ! Be black ye heavens, tremble
thou earth, lament ye saints and sons of Zion. A
strong oak is fallen, the choicest flower in the garden
is plucked, the Rev. John Angier, pastor of Denton
forty-six years, the honour of the ministry in those
parts, my dear father-in-law, the best friend I had on
earth, is fallen ! He was a man of God, a minister of
the gospel, and such a one as is not left. The first
ague fit attacked him Aug. 21, and five or six others
so weakened his spirits and wasted his strength, that
Sept. 1st, 1677, he breathed his last. He was buried
at Denton with the greatest solemnity, Sept. 3rd ;
when two knights, twelve ministers, many worthy
gentlemen, and multitudes of common people attended
his funeral and made great lamentation. And, O my
soul, hast thou nothing to say, nothing to do, nothing to
lament under this overwhelming providence? A pray-
ing Moses is gone, one that stood in the gap and pleaded
for Zion and the state ; one that, like Aaron, stood be-
tween the living and the dead, and prevailed to turn
away God's wrath from us ; one that gave God no rest
day or night, who was successful and saw many re-
turns of prayer. As a minister of the gospel, he was
so diligent in studying, so exact in walking, so weighty
in expressions, so laborious in God's work, so harmless,
charitable, wise, moderate, and useful in private con-
versation ! Though I have known many good men,
yet I never knew one like him in every thing ; the
greater our former mercy, the greater our loss now.
Woe to us ! What have we lost ? A spiritual father
in Christ, an earthly angel, a faithful steward of hea-
venly mysteries, a Boanerges to awaken drowsy sin-
ners, a Barnabas to comfort drooping souls, an Apollos
216 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
mighty in the scriptures, and fit to water God's plan-
tation, and a Paul who was caught up to the third
heavens, and saw mysteries that his modesty forbad
him to utter to others. It now appears what a bless-
ing he was. No sooner was his soul in heaven and his
body in the grave, than the scene was changed, and
darkness overspread a land of Goshen. O how doth
that place sit solitary which was full of people ! How
do the ways of Zion mourn ! O that our eyes may
affect our hearts !"
This breach was soon followed by the death of his
only surviving brother, the Rev. Nathaniel Heywood,
of Ormskirk. Well might Mr. Heywood say : " Job's
messengers make haste, treading upon the heels of each
other. Scarcely are our tears wiped off for one friend,
but tidings of another appal us. God hath broken me
with breach upon breach ! Righteous art thou, O Lord,
when I plead with thee. O my soul, be dumb, open
not thy mouth against God. Thou, Lord, hast done
it; and though I nmst not murmur, I may groan;
though I must not complain of God, I may of myself ;
though I must not mourn as one without hope, I can-
not lay aside all natural affection. O with what a blow
hath God terminated this year ! My dear and only
brother, ten years 3ij)uhlic preacher, and half that period
vicar of Ormskirk, but turned out on black Bartholo-
mew's day, 1662, having preached in 'private since,
and prophesied in sackcloth, is now clothed in white
robes before the throne in heaven. His torturhig pains
struck many a blow at that goodly tree which death
cut down. Lord's day morning Dec. I6tli, 1677. This
is a great loss to the church and nation, to his parish,
to his family, and to me in particular. O lamentable
loss ! What shall I say ? How are the mighty fallen !
How is the beauty of Israel slaiu upon the high places !
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 217
Alas ! alas ! those pleasant gardens of Eden, which have
been watered with the rivers of God, are likely to be
as the mountains of Gilboa, upon which no more whole-
some doctrine will drop and distil as the dew; but
thistles grow instead of wheat, and noisome weeds in-
stead of barley. O my dear and amiable brother !
what words shall I take, with which to lament thee ?
Alas my brother ! the honour of our family is gone !
He was a Christian, and a minister of great ability, an
ornament to his generation, eminent for zeal, piety,
humility, and all ministerial endowments. I am dis-
tressed for thee my brother, very pleasant hast thou
been to me ; yea, every way desirable : profitable while
living, honoured in death, and loved in all. Why did
not that fatal stroke take me away rather than thee ?
Am not I the older, and should not I have gone before
thee ? No, no, death was not blind. My brother was
ripe and I am not ; he had made haste and despatched
his work, and is now receiving his abundant reward,
whilst I am wearily tossed on this tempestuous ocean.
The death of this excellent servant of God hath gone
nearer my heart than any loss I have sustained these
many years, on several accounts. We were born of
the same parents, were pupils under the same tutors,
were neighbouring ministers several years, and for
some time kept house together. Seldom has natural
affection in brothers been raised to that height that
ours was. His going to a distant place was painful to
us both, and caused many tears at parting ; but our
absence was as oil to the flame. Now we are removed
to a greater distance from each other ! It increaseth my
affliction that the church should lose so useful a person
in such a day as this. He possessed incomparable
qualifications ; he had such a strong memory, profound
judgment, ready elocution, and extensive learning ; he
218 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
was many degrees beyond my attainments and capacity,
and I have often admired his singular dexterity in
managing both polemical and practical discourses to
much satisfaction and edification. Seldom have I seen
so much fitness for the Lord's work in so young a per-
son. He was far more adapted to do God service in his
church than I am, or am ever likely to be. It grieves
me when I think of his long continued pain during the
most part of the last summer, and yet I have not given
him a visit in his deep affliction, having been prevented
by business, till he was suddenly surprised with that
sickness which proved mortal in three days. I am ex-
ceedingly troubled on this account, especially since I
have heard he expressed a great desire to see me.
Lord, forgive me this sin ! for I charge myself deeply
with it, though I then thought I had sufficient excuse.
This breach is also the more aggravated because it
follows so near upon others. My father died March
1st ; my youngest sister, Alice, May 9th ; my father
Angier Sept. 1st ; and to bring up the rear, my dear
brother, Dec. I6th : all these in this memorable year,
surely it has been a black and dismal year ! I pray
that the death of these eminent servants of God this
year, may not prove a fearful prognostic to a more fatal
year ensuing. God sometimes hides his saints in the
grave from approaching storms, puts his children to
bed before night comes on, and calls home his ambas-
sadors before open war breaks out. Though the death
of God's aged and eminent servants be often a great
loss, yet the death of young Timothies, engaged in
God's work, is in a sense more ominous : as when a
man cuts down not only old trees but young plants, it
is a sign he intends to lay all waste ; this the Lord
hath remarkably done of late. How very few are the
trees of God's right-hand planting, that even a child
i
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 219
may count them ! How many full grown cedars have
fallen of late, and how few slips have been planted in
their place ! Though many are growing up in the
plantations, yet how few give evidence that they are
of the right description ! We fear they will either be
cumberers of the ground, or bring forth sour grapes!
Though this man of God was young in years, he was
old in gifts, grace, and usefulness. He was but forty
four years of age, yet he had attained to the gravity
and maturity of eighty. His time was short, but he
had lived long, and he has now obtained the prize ;
the crown is set on his triumphant head, and he is in-
troduced into the joy of his Lord, while we, poor dull
things, are lagging behind, lamenting our loss, and
fearing the approach of more dreadful storms. Lord,
prevent our fears, prepare us for trials, sanctify this
mournful breach, and bring us safely home."
These solemn and repeated strokes produced a deep
impression on Mr. Heywood's mind, and made him
more attentive to the important duty of self-examina-
tion, as the best preparation for his own solemn change.
The seriousness, earnestness, and carefulness with
which he carried on this investigation, will apj)ear from
the following extract: "Nov. 1st, 1677, I set myself
in the evening to the practice of that much neglected
duty, self-examination; and my soul was occupied with
such thoughts as these, which I feel disposed to commit
to paper : —
" My soul, thou and I have been long strangers. I
go on in the profession of religion, preaching, study-
ing, and performing religious exercises in public and
private ; but dost thou not read of searching a man's
ways ? Doth not God command persons to commune
with their own hearts, and make diligent search?
Hast thou not in thy public work lately urged this
220 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
duty ? Are not trying times coming on ; and is not
self-judging in the petty sessions a good help to pre-
vent loss or prepare for the great assizes ? Is not the
matter of very great importance ? Art thou content
to go hoodwinked, and live at confused uncertainties ?
Will not a thorough self-trial pay for the trouble?
Art thou so earnest that others should do it, and wilt
thou not engage in it thyself? Surely, my soul, it is
a profitable duty, and as it is difficult, so it is most
likely to prove necessary, because a subtle devil and
a wicked heart so much oppose it. And is it indeed
so hard a work? Is it a long journey for a man to
travel to his own heart? Shall the difficulty dis-
courage thee ? Shall it not rather quicken thy endea-
vours considering its necessity? Art thou not ap-
proaching the fiftieth year of thy life, and is it not the
afternoon of thy day ? Will not death shortly cause
thy sun to set, and will it not then be of singular use
to have thy evidences fairly written ? Who knows
what violent assaults Satan may make upon thee, or
how thy Lord may withdraw from thee ? Then,
having thy case well stated, resolved, and confirmed
on scripture grounds, it may comfort thee in some
trial to which thou mayest be called. Come then,
my soul, and let me take thee to task, and ask thee
some important questions. But do not thou, as thou
art wont, shuffle and trifle, and put me off with good
words and hopeful appearances ; but go to the bottom,
lay the axe to the root of the tree, and be faithful to
God and thy own conscience in this great affair.
Self-flattery is the high road to inevitable and eternal
misery."
" First, My soul, dost thou believe, that when thou
art separated from this body in which thou now
lodgest, thou shalt die as the beasts, and have no ex-
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 221
istence ? Ans. No, I am sure, both from scripture
and reason, that I shall have existence in a separate
state; for men may kill the body, but God can cast the
soul into hell when the body is laid in the grave.
There shall also be a resurrection, when the body must
follow the state of the soul."
^^ Secondly, But what life must thou live when
thou shalt depart from this tabernacle ? Ans. I do
verily believe, that mine, as well as other men's souls,
will go into an unchangeable state of joy or misery, in
heaven or hell ; and that when the body returns to
dust as it was, the soul shall ascend to God that gave
it, to receive from him the sentence of al)solution or
condemnation. It is appointed unto men once to die,
and after this, the judgment ; that is, a personal
judgment, preparatory to the solemn day of judgment
for all the world. I am as confident that when the
soul departs from the body, it enters either joy or
woe, as I do believe it must depart."
" Thirdly, My soul, what state of eternity dost thou
think thou shalt enter, when soul and body are sepa-
rated ? A71S. I am not much concerned to know at
what hour this body will begin to moulder, nor whe-
ther I shall die a natural or violent death, by a sudden
accident or by the hands of persecutors ; but this I do
now believe, with some degree of confidence, (though
long under many discouraging doubts and fears,) that
when the earthly house of this my tabernacle shall be
dissolved, I shall have a house, not made with hands,
eternal in the heavens. It has indeed cost me many
sighs, prayers, tears, and examinations before I arrived
at this comfortable assurance ; for it is not the work
of a day or two, but of many years. Now I know
whom I have believed, and am persuaded, that he is
able to keep that which I have committed unto him
^22 LIFE or THE HEV. O. HEVWOOD.
against that day — the day of death and judgment ; and
that he will guide me by his counsel, and afterward
receive me to glory. The same gracious and faithful
God that took me from my mother's womb, that has
been the support of my childhood and staff of my
youth, will also be the crown and comfort of my gray
hairs : I dare trust him, and as old Polycarp, when
tempted by advice given to forsake Christ, could say,
* Eighty-six years hath the Lord kept me, and shall I
now forsake him in my old age?' so I can say, above
forty years hath the Lord allured and drawn out my
heart after himself, and shall I now forsake him ? will
he now forsake me ? Indeed, I have been ready to
sink often, and have sometimes imagined I could not
go one step farther ; but, through grace, I have set up
many Ebenezers, and having obtained help of God,
I continue to this day as a monument of divine mercy.
What God hath done for me, poor and unworthy as
I am, will be a source of admiration to saints and an-
gels throughout eternity."
" Fourthly, But, O my soul, thou seemest to be very
confident ; is it not presumption, a hope built on the
sand ? How dost thou hojje to be saved, for thou art
a sinner ? Doth not God threaten death to sinners ?
Is he a man that he should repent, and will he reverse
the sentence for thee ? Is not hell prepared for sinners,
and are not fallen angels reserved in chains against
the judgment of the great day? On what grounds
dost thou expect felicity, seeing many rational creatures
just like thee by nature are now in hell ? Ans. My
case is indeed the same by nature as that of the vessels
of wrath, for I am a child of wrath as well as others.
God made man upright, but he hath sought out many
inventions, and hath lost God's image and communion
with him. But God in his infinite love and grace hath
PERSECUTION RENEWED, 223
pitied lapsed mankind, and wlien there was none in
heaven or earth of sufficient power to rescue forlorn
wretches, he sent his own Son, the second person of
the sacred Trinity, who thought it no robhery to be
equal with God ; being God, he sent him to take upon
him man's nature, to live a life of sorrows, and die an
accursed death, to satisfy violated justice, to appease
offended Deity, and make reconciliation between God
and man. ' This is a faithful saying and worthy of
all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world
to save sinners ;' he ascended into heaven, and sitteth
at the right hand of the Father, to pursue the same
design of saving souls ; as prophet to teach, as priest to
intercede, and as king to gather and rule his purchased
people ; and at last he will bring all their souls, with
this of mine, I hope, to enjoy God everlastingly."
Fiftlily^ And dost thou imagine, O my soul, that
all will be saved by the merits of Christ's undertaking?
If not, what ground hast thou to believe that thou
shalt have benefit through Christ's redeeming love
more than others, who, notwithstanding his death,
and though they live under the sound of the gospel,
and as confidently hope for salvation as thou, shall
perish everlastingly? Ans. If I can find that God
hath, by his grace, wrought in me repentance and true
faith in Christ Jesus, I have good reason to hope that
I shall be saved, because these are things that accom-
pany salvation ; and though there be no merit nor
worthiness in me, yet God is faithful to his promises,
and it is as impossible for a truly penitent, believing
soul to go to hell, as for an impenitent and unbelieving
soul to go to heaven. I find that God makes sinners
meet for heaven here, gives them the earnest of his
Spirit, seals them to the day of redemption, and here-
after gives an inheritance to them that are sanctified ;
224 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. IIEYWOOD.
whom he calleth, he also glorifieth. It is true, the
whole of this is of grace, pure grace ; and when free
grace will magnify itself, nothing shall hinder the
salvation of the soul, for he that hath begun a good
M^ork in me, will also perform it until the day of
Christ ; I may be confident of this, because faithful is
he that hath 2)romised, who also will do it ; though I
be a weak worm of myself, yet I shall be kept by the
power of God through faith unto salvation."
" Sixthly, O my soul, it is a truth, that those who
are sanctified are also justified and shall be saved ; but
art thou sanctified, in whom lodgeth such a multitude
of vile dispositions ? Art thou made meet for heaven,
who art not meet for any good work here ? Art thou
sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, who art daily
grieving the Spirit, by sinning against God ? Is there
any good work wrought in thy heart, who canst not
but be conscious to thyself of so much evil, that some-
times thou canst not perceive the existence of good ?
Ans. I must confess, that in me, that is, in my flesh,
dwelleth no good thing ; to me belongeth nothing but
confusion of face ; I am the chief of sinners, the least
of saints, if a saint. AVhen I look into my heart, I
find a cage of unclean and noisome birds, and such
a mass of sin, that I am ready to say, surely no spark
of saving grace can dwell in such a heart. Can Christ
and Belial share so small a compass as a human soul?
Will not our Lord be supreme where he comes to
dwell ? Is it imaginable he can rule where the devil's
interest is so strong ? Surely this very consideration
may damp my hopes and discourage ray heart. True
* circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and
not in the letter ; whose praise is not of men, but of
God. ' ^Vhen I read such scriptures, I am much cast
down in my own eyes, especially reflecting on the
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 225
swarms of vain thoughts that lodge within me. These
things make me suppose that all my feelings within,
and worship outwardly, are but a fine-spun hypocrisy,
which will be swept away as the spider's web, with all
the hope that shrouds itself under it. But stay, my
soul, be not so peremptory ; condemn not all the gene-
ration of the just, and thyself with them. Learn to dis-
tinguish bet wen true perfection of j)arts and degrees, and
to judge of a Christian's state in point of sanctification.
Distinguish between a state of sin, and the acts of sin —
between having hypocrisy, and being a hypocrite —
between the indwelling of corruption, and the dominion
of it — between a state of imperfection in grace, and a
state of perfection in glory ; learn these well, and then
descend into the heart. O my soul, though thou canst
not say, thou art clean, yet thou canst say, that 'having
these promises, thou art cleansing thyself from all fil-
thiness of the flesh and spirit ;' and 'having this hope,
thou art purifying thyself.' Canst thou not truly say,
thou hatest every false way, and regardest not iniquity
in thy heart ? Wouldst thou not willingly be deli-
vered from this body of death, as thy greatest enemy ?
Wouldst thou not be holy as God is holy, in all
manner of thinking and conversation ? Art thou
not content to pluck out a right eye, or cut off a
right hand ? Doth not the spirit within thee lust
against the flesh ? I hope my soul can comfortably
answer these characteristical interrogations. True, I
have a troublesome inmate, and there is a sin that doth
easily beset me and too much prevails ; but I can call
to record how many prayers, tears, and lamentations,
my corruptions have cost me. Oh what panting for
perfect sanctification ! What would I give might I be
free from sin ! If God would set me at liberty from
the baneful influence of internal depravity, it would.
VOL. I. Q
226 LTFE OF THE TcEV. 0. HEVWOOD.
be the most blessed day I ever saw ; I hope I coukl
rejoice more therein than in the gain of the whole
world. How weary am I of myself, and being in the
world, because of sin ! God knows, and this conscience
can witness, and some rooms where I have been can
bear testimony, that no affliction that ever befell me
hath rested so sadly on ray si)irit, as my sins, and rather
than commit them again against my gracious Lord, I
thought I should be content to be on a rack, yea, to
endure infernal torments. Hath not my God found
me many a time on my face, uttering my sad com-
plaints for those sins the world hath known nothing
of, and for spiritual wickednesses ? Have I not in-
quired into scripture ways of mortification of sensual
affections ? Have I not watched against occasions of
sin ? Hath not my soul been striking at the root of
sin, and making fresh applications by faith to the
death of Christ for crucifying the flesh and its lusts ?
And hath my spiritual combat been altogether without
success ? Hath not my heavenly Joshua sometimes
caused me to set my feet on the necks of these Canaan-
itish kings ? Surely, my soul can say, thanks be to
God who hath given me the victory through our Lord
Jesus Christ. ^Vell then, my soul can truly answer,
that though I have a corrupt heart and much sin, yet
I do not willingly allow myself in any guile ; that sin
reigns not, that there is sincere opposition made to it,
and that integrity and uprightness shall preserve me ;
that though I be not a glorified saint in heaven, I am
an upright Christian on earth ; that although sin be
stirring in me, I am not a slave to it ; that though I
have too much hypocrisy, I am not a hypocrite. This
soul of mine can say with Job, ' Thou knowest I am
not wicked;' and with David, *I have not wickedly
departed from my God.' "
PERSECTTTTON RENEWED. 227
" Seventhhj, My soul, thou mayest be upright in
avoiding sin, and not willingly allow the gratification
of any sensual appetite ; but what is all this to the
purpose, seeing thou art daily sinning ? Do not the
scriptures say, * Cursed is every one that continuetli
not in all thins's written in the book of the law to do
them ?' What art thou then better for thy fighting
against and mourning for sin, seeing thou art daily
overtaken by it ? Canst thou truly say thou committest
any sin against thy will ? and if thou couldst, what
will that advantage thee before the pure and holy God?
Will thy honest mind give him satisfaction for violating
his laws ? Will thy purpose to sin no more, procure a
dispensation to sin again, or absolution for past of-
fences? Will thy repentings and conflicts appease
God's wrath, justify thy person, or save thy soul ?
Ans. I know that when I have done all, if that were
possible, I am still an unprofitable servant ; it would
be but duty, and doing duty will pay no debt ; what-
soever I may do or suffer will bear no proportion to
infinite justice wronged by my sins. "What I do, and
the strength whereby I act is not my own, but my
Lord's ; by the grace of God I am what I am, and do
what I do ; yea, my exertions for God, and strivings
against sin and Satan are defective and mixed with
abundance of vanity. The graces of the Sjiirit, as
exercised by me, are too short a garment to cover my
naked soul, and are as filthy rags that need cleansing,
and therefore cannot cleanse me. Woe is me f I am a
man of unclean lips, and nothing I do is free from
pollution ; if I justify myself my own mouth will con-
demn me. If my goodness were perfect it would be
finite, and could bear no proportion to infinite justice.
The righteousness by which a sinner is justified, m.ust be
Q 2
228 LIFE OF THE EEV. O. HEYWOOD.
commensurate with the infinite holiness and justice of
the great God ; and this is what God hath provided in
his gospel. Christ is become ' the Lord our righteous-
ness ;' and ' by him all that believe are justified from
all things, from which we could not be justified by the
law of Moses ;' for God 'hath made him to be sin for
us, who knew no sin ; that we might be made the
righteousness of God in him.'"
The treatment experienced by the Nonconformists
after the calling in of the licenses, varied at different
times and in different parts of the country. Some-
times a disposition was manifested by those in power,
to attempt their comprehension within the pale of the
establishment by concessions on both sides ; but these
measures invariably proved abortive. At other times,
there appeared a determination in the magistracy to
enforce the penal laws with their utmost rigour. Oc-
casionally the Parliament appeared disposed to show
lenity towards their dissenting brethren, and some
leading men in the House of Commons spoke in their
favour, but were not able to bring any thing to ma-
turity. In some parts of the country, ill-natured per-
sons were on the alert to disturb, if not prevent, their
fellow subjects in the peaceable exercise of their reli-
gious rights. "Lord's day, April 13th, 1679," says
Mr. Heywood, " I rode to Shaw chapel, and preached
there to a numerous and attentive congregation with-
out any disturbance. But at night, I Vv'as apprehended
by Mr. Thos. Baskervil, high constable, and cairied
before Mr. Entwistle, of Ormskirk, justice of the peace,
who treated me very roughlv. Lord, sanctify this
trial to me, and do me good by it ! I was required to
give security for my appearance at Manchester the next
Quarter Sessions, which being done, I was set at li-
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 229
berty. I attended at the Sessions accordingly, was
called upon and examined, but God in his good
providence working for nie, I was honourably ac-
quitted."
"This month, I took a long journey into Nottingham-
shire, visited many friends, preached often in dili'erent
places, and to large audiences. I was admitted into
the church at J — , and preached before Sir Ralph
Knio-ht, from these words : ' Whosoever doth not bear
his cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple.' God
graciously helped me through the whole of what I had
to do, and gave me a prosperous journey. Part of my
business was to visit my son Eliezer, whom Providence
has fixed in that part of the covmtry."
Oct. iG'th in this year, was observed by Mr. H. as a
day of thanksgiving, not on account of any remarkable
occurrence, but for the general mercies enjoyed by him
and his family, when he indulged himself in the fol-
lowing pious meditations : " 1 have now waited on
God as a Christian many years, and as a preacher near
thirty years, with many tears, temptations, wants, and
weaknesses. I was engaged to the people of Coley in
1650, and having taken a review of many events dur-
ing this long period, it has made a strong impression on
my mind, so that I have observed this day, as a day of
thanksgiving, with above thirty of my special friends
in my house at Northowram ; and on the evening of
this solemn day, I am bound in spirit to make a re-
cognition of God's singular favours to me during my
four apprenticeships with this my dearly beloved peo-
ple. It is true I am conscious of many sins in all this
time, for which my soul hath been grieved, and which,
I humbly hope, God hath pardoned through the blood
of the Mediator, my dear Saviour. I shall only go
over some remarkable providences, as a landscape, the
230 IJFE OF THE llEV. O. IIEYWOOD.
review of which is pleasant to ine, and may support
my faith and promote my gratitude."
" 1. With grateful recollection I look back on the
unanimous invitation I received, when I commenced
my stated ministry, notwithstanding the numerous im-
perfections which must have been visible in such a
stripling as I then was. 2. The dijiosition which led
me to accept that invitation must have come from
above, for previously I had no inclination to take up
my residence in this district. 3. God found me a con-
venient residence, where I had many opportunities of
gaining experience both by religious society and other-
wise, by seeing the beauty of holiness and the evil of
sin, and both were of great use to me. 4. I had some
aged christian friends, from whose converse I received
much advantage, who were careful of me and faithful
to me, for which I have cause to bless God while I
have a day to live. 5. God inclined my heart in a
year or two to seek a regular admission into the minis-
terial office by solemn ordination and imposition of the
hands of the Presbytery. This was so affectingly carried
on by fasting and jwayer, that it convinced some at the
time, and hath assured me since, that it was God's
way. 6. The Lord raised me up out of a dangerous
fever, when I imagined I was in the very pangs of
death ; but God restored me from death to life that I
might show forth his praise, and proclaim his will in
the land of the living. 7. My dear Lord did graciously
prevent temi)tations, and deliver from falling into gross
and scandalous sins, thereby preventing a reproach on
the gospel, a stain on my rej)utation, and a stumbling
block in my way of doing good. 8. God knows in
v/hat chambers and fields I waited on him, what
ejaculations, self-communings, prayers and tears at-
tended my retirement. 9. God helped me to study
PERSECUTION llENEWED. 231
hard, to read much, and take jiains with my sermons
in younger days, and Uiere was more than ordinary
need, for I had not enjoyed such advantages as many
others ; and in some measure God blessed my studies
and plain style of preaching. 10. God hath wonder-
fully succeeded my humble efforts in the conviction and
conversion of souls. I shall never forget many who
with troubled consciences came to me, and though soma
of those persons have fallen off, some have gone to
heaven and others are on the road : blessed, blessed be
my God. 11. God gave me for a wife the precious
daughter of a distinguished father, who was spared to
me six years, and by whom I had given me three living
sons ; two still living. She was a singular help to me
in my work, but she was fitter for heaven than earth,
and she is now with God. 12. By the assistance of
my dear and reverend father Angier, I set up discipline
and restored the Lord's supper at Coley, which had
been long neglected, and unsuccessfully attempted
by my predecessors. 13. When I was turned off
from my public work, I was in debt, and many of
my people forsook me ; but in the year 1665, the
time of banishment, I got clear, went forward and
never have been behind since, though ray expences
have been great. 14. When I was excommunicated,
and not permitted to go to church nor chapel to hear
sermons, a few pious persons spent the sabbath with
me in my own house, and one evening in the week.
At these seasons God surprisingly melted my heart, so
that I cannot say, I ever had so much enjoyment all
my life ; the worse men were, the better was God to
me. 15. By the Five-mile Act, I had to travel abroad
in the world, by which I obtained much excellent ac-
quaintance, unceasing employment, and comfortable
supplies, so that I preached usually every other Lord's
232 LITE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
day in some public place in the most dangerous times,
and God wonderfully secured me ; what men designed
for hurt, God turned to advantage. 16. In that diffi-
cult time, 1667, God gave me another very amiable
companion. I found her to be a pious, useful, faithful
wife, whom God hath continued as a rich mercy to
me, my sons, and the church of God ; a fellow traveller
who partakes with me in my mercies and afflictions for
the gospel : blessed be my God for her. 17. God
smiled on my sons at school, opened a way for their
education, gave me the means of supporting them
several years, kept them in safety, assisted his servants
to pray for them, and, though I had my fears, he hath
given me hopes relative to their piety, settled them in
desirable places, and made them useful : blessed be my
good God. 18. At Coley-hall we had some encourage-
ment, blended however with some inconveniences. God
enabled me to purchase a house, sent me a license,
opened the door, and hath kept it open to this day ;
he made the place convenient, brought in numerous as-
semblies, maintained his ordinances among us, inclined
the hearts of his people to encourage us, and kept the
lamp burning amidst all the storms ; this is the Lord's
doing. 19. God hath found me work of importance,
at home and abroad, hath directed me to suitable sub-
jects, assisted me in my studies, preaching, and travels,
prevented dangers and death, succeeded my poor la-
bours, and made my ministry to be desired in new
l)laces, where neither I nor others have preached, and
where I hope God hath some lost sheep to bring in.
These instances I have enumerated, which might be
multiplied v/ere I a good arithmetician. Lord, humble
me for my short comings, accept my praises in the
course of my ministry, rear more permanent monuments
to thy glory, and cease not to do good both in me and
PEllSECUTION llENEWEl). 233
by me. O prepare me for an everlasting day of thanks-
giving, when I shall have faculties for that work which
I so imperfectly perform in this vale of tears ! Haste,
Lord, even so come, Lord Jesus !"
In January, 1680, Mrs. Hey wood was so severely
indisposed, that the congregation was obliged for
several weeks, to assemble at a neighbour's house ;
and Mr. Eliezer Heywood, who was coming to visit
her, was taken so ill at Derby, that his life appeared
for a time to hang in suspense : but it pleased God to
have mercy on them and restore them. " God visited
my wife," says Mr. Heywood, " with a violent fever,
Jan. I6th, and she continued ill a month, so that four
Lord's days I was kept out of my own house, and
preached at W. Clay's. My son, Eliezer, was also seized
about the same time with the ague, but came to us March
4th. The day after, we kept a solemn day of thanks-
giving to pay our vows. I preached on Psal. Ixv. 1,
and God helped in the work." In recording the cir-
cumstances connected with this visitation, he observes,
that " when Mrs. H. was very weakly, she wished me
to go into another room and pray for her. I did so,
and God graciously helped me to give her up into his
hands as to a kind father, and so was satisfied. My
son, Eliezer, coming to see his mother, fell sick by the
way and was obliged to stay at Mrs. Cotton's, at
Derby. His ague fits came upon him every other
day, and brought him very low ; but friends dealt
very affectionately and tenderly with him. O my soul,
stand admiring the divine bounty ! God hath done
great things for me, and dandled me on the lap of
smiling providences. Thou hadst become out of order;
senselessness and security had seized upon thee ; hard-
heartedness, vanity, unbelief, and forgetfulness of God
had cast thee into a spiritual lethargy ; and this rod
234 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
was seasonable and necessary to awaken, for nothing
else would do it ; in faithfulness to my soul God saw
fit to correct. Blessed be his name, that free grace
took such care of me as to chastise me ; there was
need that I should be in heaviness for a season. O
what riches of grace, that the rod attained its end !
My heart was melted, conscience awakened, grace
quickened, corruptions searched and resisted, duties
were performed in a more lively manner, the spirit of
prayer was poured upon me, so that through grace, I
poured out my soul before the face of the Lord. He
heard prayer on behalf of my wife, kept the fever
from seizing her brain, gave her patience and free
submission to the Lord's pleasure, found many friends
to help, quickened the spirits of Christians in prayer
for her, in due time completed her recovery, and helped
her heart in some suitable acknowledgement. My God
did also wisely order the circumstances of my son's
affliction ; he was cast into a religious and kind family,
where they were as careful of him as of their own
child ; and the Lord dealt gently with him ; blessed
be his name. ' My soul shall make her boast in the
Lord ; the humble shall hear thereof and be glad. I
sought the Lord and he lieard me, and delivered me
from all my fears. This poor man cried, and the
Lord heard him, and delivered him out of all his
troubles.' O what a God do I worship ! Ready at
hand to help, a present help in time of trouble. Who,
or what am I, that the Lord should deal thus graciously
with me ? I must say, while I live, ' it is good for
me to draw nigh unto God. What shall I render unto
the Lord for all his benefits towards me ?' My soul,
love thou the Lord, because he hath heard thy voice.
O call upon him continually ! O my soul ! thou hast
succeeded so well, and obtained such good alms at this
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 235
door, find the way to it again, and bring an offering
daily of praise and prayer ; so shalt thou receive some-
thing better than thou bringest. Return unto thy rest,
centre in God, look no where else for happiness ; in
him thou mayest have the desire of thy heart. But
withal, I do solemnly charge thee to walk holiiy,
watchfully, and usefully before the Lord in the land
of the living. Take heed to thy ways, make good thy
promises, seek more power against corruptions, pray
more frequently, seriously, and affectionately, converse
more spiritually and profitably, clear up thy interest
in Christ and title to heaven more carefully, and get
prepared for glory. O my soul, mercy calls for duty ;
new mercies bestowed upon thee require new obser-
vances from thee ; thou canst never do too much for
God, nor make sufficient returns to him, for thou art
sadly defective ; thou must die in thy Lord's debt, and
he will put thee into a capacity of continually paying
the sweet debt of thankfulness to all eternity. How
often hast thou forfeited all thy mercies, and incurred
God's just displeasure ? How oft hast thou provoked
him to make a legal seizure of thy borrowed enjoy-
ments ? But my Lord hath yet spared, and mercifully
continued these desirable connections ; let him alone
have the glory, and my soul the benefit of them."
So deep were the impressions made on his grateful
heart by these tokens of the divine favour to him and
his, that he resolved to renew his solemn vows to God
in writing, but was prevented accomplishing his design
till the 15tli of March, the return of the day on which
he had been baptized, fifty years before, when he thus
expressed the feelings of his mind: —
" Eternal Jehovah ! The God to whom belong the
issues from death, in whose hands our breath is, and
whose are all our ways, who killest and makcst alive,
336 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
who alone canst absolve and condemn ; I, thy poor
servant, the workmanship of thy hands, have been
preserved by thy wonderful providence fifty years in
the world, in various places, companies, conditions, re-
lations and afflictions ; have been wonderfully preserved
from suffering shipwreck on this boisterous sea, and
have pressed without harm through the fiery furnace of
sharp trials, public and personal, spiritual and natural.
Thrice I have been in a raging fever, yet by a miracle
of mercy have been raised from death to life ; I have
had many a weary day of sickness ; have travelled
thousands of miles, and had many falls, but never have
broken a bone ; have buried father and mother, sisters
and brothers, a wife and child, yet my life has been
given me for a prey ; I have escaped many sad ac-
cidents, known and unknown ; I have been twice
exconnnunicated, thrice imprisoned, once plundered,
banished from my own house, often sought after with
warrants, many times made to flee, suspended from my
public preaching, have ventured in the face of apparent
dangers, been threatened, watched, and often vexed by
censures, railing, and scorn from those that were at
ease: yet my bow abides in strength, being strengthened
by the hand of the mighty God of Jacob. I have had
studyings, watchings, fastings, preachings, real bur-
dens, frightful imaginations, discouragements and dis-
appointments in my ministerial work ; I have been in
low condition in the world at some seasons, have had
debts, cares and fears about my sons ; arid whatever
else is wont to befall a man, or a Christian, or a minis-
ter, the care of the churches abroad, and my own flock
at home, fear of being unfaithful, unskilful, and unsuc-
cessful ; add to all these the daily burdens and temp-
tations arising from my ejection and continued exclu-
sion from public employment above seventeen years,
PEllSKCnTION RENEWED. 237
while the people in some places are perishing for lack
of knowledge, and wliile some of my old hearers are
going towards hell, and I have not liberty to preach
to them : all these, and numbers more of troubles, God
hath helped me safely to pass through, and hath main-
tained me in my work ; blessed be God. Besides all
these, I have of late had alarms respecting my wife
and sons, the elder with a dangerous consumption, the
younger with an ague, and my wife with a fever ; yet
God hath spared them in answer to my poor, Aveak re-
quests ; blessed be his name. And now, O my Lord,
having obtained help of thee, I continue unto this day,
as a monument of divine patience, care, and mercy, and
know not what things will be my lot the remainder of
my days, nor am I solicitous what my God will do
with me, so that I may finish my course with joy and
the ministry I have received of the Lord Jesus. My
life is not dear to me in comparison with the gospel ;
my great fear is, lest I should deny my Lord or his
truth, in this adulterous generation ; and though the
most unworthy to do or suffer any thing for my Lord,
yet I have given up myself wholly to thee, my God.
Thine I am, by many thousand obligations which thou
hast laid on me, and which I have laid on myself in
solemn days of fasting, thanksgiving, and sacraments,
in times of affliction, and on the receipt of mercies ;
and I do not repent of this deed of gift, which I have
so often subscribed with my hand ; and if it were to do
again I would do it, for the Lord hath requited me for
all my poor, weak service and suffering, if he were not
to give me any more reward. My greatest trouble is,
that I have so often departed from my God by an evil
heart of unbelief, that I have not performed my vows,
maintained such a sense of his omnipresence, holiness,
and power, nor exercised faith, love, self-denial, and
238 LIFE OF THE REV. (). HEYWOOD.
joy in God as my soul desires. I am really ashamed
of my folly and faults, and solicit pardon through the
blood of Jesus, and divine assistance for future per-
formances. Thou great Jehovah ! who knowest the
secrets of the heart, make me sound in thy statutes
that I be not ashamed. I once again, put my soul
into thy hands. Brighten up thy image in me, assist
me further in duty, quicken my heart in thy ways,
pardon my short comings, heal my diseases, give me
perseverance, and crown me with glory.
" Thy worthless servant,
"OLIVER HEYWOOD."
The cause of Popery about this time appeared to
gain ground ; popish plots were frequently contrived,
and the Duke of York being a violent papist, every
zealous friend to the Protestant interest was in a state
of alarm. The Parliament, aware of this situation of
things, were inclined to exempt the Nonconformists
from the penalties to which they were liable, and to
exclude the duke from the succession. The king was
greatly dissatisfied with their proceedings, and hastily
prorogued them ; but before they rose, the House of
Commons came to the following resolution : " Re-
solved, ?iem. con. That it is the opinion of this House,
that the Acts of Parliament made in the reigns of Queen
Elizabeth and King James against popish recusants,
ought not to be extended against Protestant Dis-
senters; and that the prosecution of Protestant Dis-
senters upon the penal laws, is at this time grievous
to the subject, a weakening of the Protestant interest,
an encouragement to Popery, and dangerous to the
peace of the kingdom." Notwithstanding the fears
entertained of the increase of Popery, which were well
founded, the persecution of the Nonconformists was
rEllSECUTlON EENEWET). 239
increased by the violent spirit of the high church dig-
nitaries. Many pamphlets were published to repre-
sent the dissenters as schismatics and rebels ; and even
Dr. Stillingfleet, dean of St. Paul's, who had generally
been considered a moderate man, preached and printed
a sermon, in 1680, entitled, " The Mischief of Separa-
tion." Orders were sent from the king and council to
suppress all conventicles, and the enemies of the Non-
conformists were inspired with fresh courage in every
part of the kingdom. Mr. Hey wood had not experienced
much trouble from the recalling of licenses ; but on
August 15th, 1680, he was cited before the Consistory
Court, at York, with his wife, and several of his
friends, for not receiving the sacrament at the parish
church ; and because they did not appear, they were
all excommunicated. The excommunication was pub-
lished at Halifax church, the 24tli of October following.
In those dark and foreboding days, a few young
men of piety and ministerial ability entered on the
work of the ministry, among the despised and perse-
cuted Nonconformists, and Mr. Heywood was some-
times engaged in taking a part in their ordinations.
Mr. Timothy Jollie, of Sheffield,* who afterwards be-
* Mr. Timothy Jollie, soon after his ordination, married Eliza-
beth Fisher, the daughter of his predecessor. About the close of
the following year, (1682) he was committed close prisoner to the
Castle, at York, where he remained some months. To that dis-
mal place his affectionate wife accompanied him, and was there
delivered of a daughter. After various discouragements and
troubles, the fmy of his persecutors Avas happily restrained by the
Revolution, and he passed the remainder of his days in peace and
extensive usefidness, as a minister, and especially as a tutor. He
died April 28th, 1714, having survived Mrs. J. five years. His
sermon, preached and published on account of the death of his
father, is now very scarce. Dr. Grosvenor, who had been one of
his students, gives the following character of him : " He was a
man of aii excellent spirit, of great spirituality and sweetness of
240 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
came the distinguished tutor of the dissenting academy,
at Attercliffe, Mr. Heywood's spiritual son in the gos-
pel, was one whose ordination he not only attended,
but of which he has left the following account : "April
25th, 1681, Mr. Thomas Jollie came to my house, ac-
cording to former appointment, and lodged with us.
The day after, we rode to Sheffield upon a solemn oc-
casion, the setting apart of Mr. Timothy Jollie, chosen
to be the pastor of the church in that place, of which
Messrs. Fisher and Durant* had been pastors before.
Beside us two, there were Messrs. Hancock and Bloom
temper. The orders of his house were strict and regular ; and
few tutors maintained them better, and with so little severity.
Every thing here was sytematical. He had a charming voice,
flowing, and of a musical sound ; a natural eloquence ; his elo-
cution and gesture were such as would recommend any orator.
The pathetic was sometimes so heightened with that divine
enthusiasm, which is peculiar to true devotion, that he would
make our hearts glow with a fervour which he kindled in the
breasts of those who endeavoured all they could not to be moved
by him. There have been tutors of greater learning, who have
been capable of laying out a greater compass of education ; but,
at the same time, it must be acknowledged, that the relish for
practical religion, that devotional spirit which was so improved
by his example, that sweetness of tei^per and benevolent turn of
mind, which a soul of any thing the same make insensibly
catches from such an example, are things not every vvhere to be
met with ; and yet have such an influence towards our usefulness
and acceptance as ministers, as cannot possibly be supplied by any
other qualities."
* ]Mr. Fisher was ejected from the parish church in Sheffield.
After his ejectment, he was in frequent troubles and very severely
used. His long and cruel imprisonment brought on him an ill-
ness in which he languished four or five months, and then died in
January, 1666. He was succeeded by ]\Ir. Durant, ejected from
the vicarage of Crowle, in Lincolnshire. He accepted the pas-
toral office of this Independent church, in 1669, and continued to
serve them in the gospel till within about a month of his death,
which took place, February 12th, 1678, in the 71st year of his age.
See Nonconformist JMemorial, vol. iii. p. 447, and vol. ii. p. 414.
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 241
called in for assistance, who came early on Wednesday
morning. We all consulted together how to perform
that service. They unanimously appointed me mode-
rator, though I would have avoided it. I began the
public service with prayer, about ten o'clock ; and my
God did graciously assist me in that duty near an
hour. Then we put Mr. Joliie to the work of preach-
ing, for a trial of his gifts. He preached on Isaiah
lix. 1, 2, very satisfactorily. We dismissed the people,
and then engaged in the work of examination, in which
we spent about three hours, going through logic, phi-
losophy, languages, divinity, &c. Through an over-
sight, he had no position in Latin allotted to him ;
however, something was done extempore, by way of
disputation. An infantes omnes baptizorum etsi scan-
dalizantium sint baptizandi?* Having disputed on
this subject, we parted at near six o'clock, and ap-
pointed to meet at the same place at seven o'clock the
next morning. (Besides Mr. JoUie, we were desired
to try the gifts of two others, Mr. David Noble, for-
merly a schoolmaster at Morley, and Mr. Robert Dick-
enson, an English scholar. The former of these en-
gaged in prayer, and preached on Rom. viii. 1, very
profitably ; but we wanted time with reference to the
latter.) The next morning, Mr. Hancock went to
prayer, and after him, Mr. Bloom. Most of the mem-
bers of the society were present, only we were in-
formed, that two were dissatisfied with ordination by
presbyters, and thought it should be by ruling elders
in the name of the people ; but no notice was taken
of them or their opinion, and we went on with our
work. I propounded such queries to Mr. Joliie as are
prescribed ; to which he answered. Then his father
* Whether all infants of persons baptized, but notoriously ir-
regular in their conduct, should be baptized ?
VOL. I. R
242 LIFE OF THE KEV. O. HEYWOOD.
gave him up to God in this office hy prayer, which he
(lid very pathetically. After that, he kneeling down,
God helped me to pray over him on his actual ordi-
nation by imposition of hands ; and there were con-
siderably strong feelings excited in all present. At
the close of that solemnity, I proceeded to give the
exhortation, which was grounded on 1 Tim. iv. 15.
God helped me in that work in some good measure, and
I concluded with prayer. The elder of the church then
desired all who were not of that society to withdraw;
so most of the people dispersed, for there was a full
assembly. We all withdrew for about half an hour,
when one of the society read a letter from Mr. Griffith,*
of London, dismissing Mr. Jollie from his church to
the Sheffield people. Their elder then spoke in the
name of the people expressing their desires, that he
would accept the pastoral office over them, to which
the rest signified their consent by lifting up the hand ;
and Mr. Jollie signified his willingness to serve them
in the gospel. Afterwards, Mr. Jollie's father dis-
coursed on the relative duties of pastor and people,
wherein he enumerated thirty or forty appellations
given to ministers in scripture, applying them dis-
tinctly and very usefully. When he had done, his son
concluded all with prayer, very sensibly and sweetly.
The v»^hole company was then dismissed, we having
continued in the Lord's work from eight o'clock in the
morning till eight at night, except about half an hour's
intermission between four and five o'clock. We gave
him an instrument on parchment, under our hands, of
what we had done for him that 28th of April, 1681."
* ]\Ir. Griffith was formei'ly of the Charter-house, in London,
and afterwards preached at Girdler's-liall. See Nonconformist
jMemorial, vol. i. p. 107 : Wilson's History of Dissenting Churches,
vol. ii. p. 516 — 518.
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 243
Mr. Heywood, like every faithful minister of the
gospel, was very anxious for the success of his minis-
try, and, though he was remarkably useful in the con-
version and edification of souls, he v/as sometimes dis-
tressed lest he should have laboured in vain. To en-
courage him to go forward in the good work in which
he was engaged, his divine Master frequently furnished
him with gratifying intelligence of success, particularly
at those seasons when most discouraged. On one of
these occasions, he thus expresses himself: " I was ex-
traordinarily employed in Lancashire, preaching almost
every day, for nearly a fortnight, in several places about
Manchester, Bolton, and Rochdale ; I laid out myself
in weeping and labours, but had no encouragement
concerning the success of my ministry. The last day,
Sept. 30th, 1681, returning homewards, I preached near
Heywood Chapel, to a numerous assembly. There I
heard of a circumstance that exceedingly cheered me,
which was, that Mr. Chadderton, now a serious Chris-
tian and famous preacher, though living privately with
Mr. Sargeant, at Stand, was wrought upon by a ser-
mon I preached at Underwood, near Rochdale, many
years ago, and which I never heard of till that day.
The like I heard also of Mr. Timothy Hodgson, who
owns me as an instrument of good to his soul. And
is it so, O my soul, is any one wrought upon by the
word in thy mouth ? Hath God owned thy labours
for good to any, yea, so many, and to such as tend
towards the sacred office of the ministry? O adore
and admire free grace in it ! Give God the glory. O
may I speak, live, and walk to his praise whose work
alone it is from first to last ! Who, or what was I that
God should single me out for that high office ? Grace
is more magnified in me than in many others ; but
God will do what he pleaseth. He can pour his gifts
11 2
244 I,IFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
into the emptiest cask, and give success to the most
imlikely instruments. The silly ass shall forbid the
madness of a prophet, and the crowing cock convince
a fallen apostle, if a divine power accompany them.
The walls of Jericho shall fall down at the sound of
the rams' horns, and Gideon's three hundred shall
defeat the liost of the Midianites ; yea, the mere break-
ing of the pitchers, shining of the lamps, and sound-
ing of the trumpets shall overcome the enemies. The
apostle, alluding to this, saith, ' We have this treasure
in earthen vessels,' &c. 2 Cor. iv. 7- O that ever free
grace, wliicli had great choice among the sons of men,
should single out such a poor worm as I, make and
account me faithful, putting me into the ministry,
bring me in by the scriptural door, make me laborious
in my studies, faithful to sound principles, conscien-
tious in practice, compassionate to sinners, abundant
in labours, and in some of the thirty things which
Paul speaks of himself, in 2 Cor. xi. Who am I, that
God should engage my heart to the suffering party,
and to trust in him when so many turn aside to
worldly preferments ! Who am I, that God should
find me out suitable and full employment, when so
many choice ministers would gladly work, but cannot ;
for no one calls them to labour in the vineyard, and
they stand idle in the market-place all the day (or ra-
ther this night) of persecution and banishment from
public assemblies ! Yea, lastly, who am I, that God
should give such blessed success, when many better
than I labour all the day and catch nothing? O won-
der of grace ! I cannot say, ' I hai'e laboured in vain,
and spent my strength for nought.' Some souls are
gathered to Christ by me, even by me, the unwor-
thiest and weakest of all my brethren ; yea, some are
gained who may be the means of gaining others ! O
PERSECUTION HENEWED. 245
free grace ! Aaron's rod doth blossom and bring forth
almonds ! When Peter was restored, he sought to
convert and strengthen his brethren ; and when David
had a right spirit renewed in him, he taught trans-
gressors God's ways, and sinners were converted to
him. O that these converts may feel what they say,
and speak what they feel ! May these lights be set on
a hill to give light to others, and these springs be
opened to refresh the city of God ! O may the same
power that forms saints and appoints ministers, at
length bring them into sweet communion in ordi-
nances ! "
Mr. Heywood was alarmed by the frequent illness
of his son Eliezer, which not only affected his body,
but had such an influence sometimes on his mind as to
unfit him for a season for the discharge of his duties.
He had two severe fits of illness in 1680, and was
again visited with sickness in the autumn of 1681 ; at
which time his father writes : " My son Eliezer having
been under various infirmities of body, temptations of
Satan, desertion of spirits, and exceeding despondencies,
wrote to me from Walling-wells complaining sadly.
He came over to me and hoped he should find relief
by going into Craven, but found none. He was much
discouraged, went to God much in secret prayer, and
in other duties, lamenting a hard heart and God's with-
drawing himself. At last we had a solemn day of
fasting and prayer at J. Greaves's, where he sadly be-
wailed his case. I was much troubled for him, and
concluding the service of the day, God helped my heart
much in pleading for him. The day after, as we rode
together, he told me God gave him some token for
good in that duty, and the evening after, when going
to prayer with us in the family, he was much carried
out in thankfulness to God for the smiles of his face
246 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOl).
and encouragement in secret, desiring to give up him-
self to the ministry in the meanest place. Blessed,
blessed be God. We designed a day of thankfulness
to God, Sept. 13th, and the day before, our Lord gave
us another mercy in reference to him ; for having di-
rections from Dr. Carl, of Manchester, to relieve him
of his quartan ague that had been hanging upon him
eight months, the Lord so blessed the medicine that
we have good hopes of his recovery. We spent the
day in thanksgiving, and our God made it a sweet
heart-melting day. Eliezer prayed and praised God
affectionately, but John exceeded. My heart was ex-
ceedingly drawn out, so that I have seldom met with
the like in company. O what a time was it for about
six hours ! Surely God's presence was with us ! Let
him have the glory."
" And now what shall I say ! My dear Lord hath
outdone my thoughts, prevented us with his blessings,
counteracted our fears and deserts, and hath magnified
his word above all his name. How many mercies
come crowding in upon us ! Health of body, peace of
conscience, operations of grace, and hopes of glory.
So well doth our Lord love a thankful heart, that he
gives new matter of gratitude when he sees us aiming
at it ; the very design of paying our vows pleaseth him,
and brings in fresh mercies ; in the day of our gratitude
we had new grounds of gratitude. Health of body is
sweet, especially when it comes as a return of prayer.
Comfort to a drooping spirit is very desirable as a per-
formance of promise ; but the workings of the spirit
of adoption in the hearts and lijis of my children is
transcendent love, it is the fruit of Christ's purchase,
an evidence of grace, and a forerunner of glory, es-
pecially when it comes as light after darkness, and as
a resurrection from the dead. O that ever my Lord
PEllSECUTION 11ENE\VED. 247
should deal thus well with me ! God hath known my
fears and prayers, cares and tears for these very mercies.
He saw in secret and has rewarded openly. O that
ever God should give me children, spare their lives,
make them capable of learning, train them ujd hitherto,
sanctify them by his grace, employ them in his work,
set one of them af)art in his way, make the other at
last willing and desirous of that office against all dis-
couragements within and without, make them choose
the persecuted way of nonconformity in such a day as
this is, not consulting flesh and blood, but opposing all
arguments fetched from thence, by the glorious and
genuine purpose of the ministry, begging of the Lord
that he would trust them with an opportunity of la-
bouring for souls, though in the most mean and con-
temptible places : this, this is to me greater satisfaction
than if they were preferred to the highest dignities in
the church. ' My soul doth magnify the Lord, and
my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he
hath regarded the low estate of his servant ; for be-
hold, from henceforth all generations shall call me
blessed,' &c. Luke i. 46 — 50. Lord, thou hast given
me more comfort in giving me and mine covenant
grace, than if thou hadst made us earthly princes. O
for a thankful heart ! O for an obedient life ! ' What
shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits towards
me, &c.' Psal. cxvi. 12, 16. Now, even now, God be-
gins to hear the prayers of ancestors, now the graces
that flourished in mother and grandmother spring up
in young Timothies. May the blessing of their father
prevail among the blessings of my progenitors. Who
knows what a reserve my Lord hath for his church in
my sons and their companions ? Lord, have respect to
the rising generation. Let thy Urim and Thummim,
248 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
(light and perfection) be in the minds and hearts of
these consecrated to thee."
Every duty connected with the ministerial office was
diligently observed by Mr. Heywood. He was often
called to attend the bed of affliction and death ; and
on one of these occasions the scene he describes is truly
awful. "Lord's day Dec. 4th, 1681, J. L. came to me
with a message for me from Mr. J. Hanson, preacher
at Honley, v/ho being sick and startled on account of
his sins much desired to see me ; I went the day after.
He was much affected at the sight of me, embraced
me, and asked me to tell him what true repentance is.
I described it, both in discourse and by repeating a
sermon from 2 Cor. vii. 10, concerning the mistakes of
men about it. He told me he was sorry for his sins
from his heart, &c. He lamented he had so rashly
entered on a work he was not fit for, adding, that he
thought there was not a priest in the country, that
preached in public places, who was a minister of Jesus
Christ. I told him, I hoped some were good men. O,
said he, Mr. Heywood, it had been happy if I had
given over preaching and betaken myself to some other
calling, when I was so alarmed by your preaching
many years ago in this chapel ; but I took it up for a
livelihood, and have been very negligent of my people's
souls. I came into this country and married a wife
with a great estate, and began to keep gentlemen's
company, spent all my property, ran into debt, and
could not stay in the country but fled into Cheshire,
I went to be Col. Lees' chaplain, a house of excessive
drinking, this broke my constitution, and since my re-
turn I have been much addicted to liquor. He then
desired my counsel and prayers. I spoke to him as I
was able, and went to prayer with him that night and
PERSECUTION llENEWED. 249
in the morning. My soul bled for him, for I found
him very ignorant, but much awakened. Intemper-
ance had brought on him a desperate surfeit and con-
sumption. Several persons were present and were
much affected. What the Lord will do with him I
cannot tell, but I will pray and wait for an answer of
prayer and success on my poor endeavours. [He was
buried Dec. 27th, 1681.]
" O my soul, what improvement dost thou make of
this providence ? It cost thee some difficulty to travel
eight miles, in bad ways, to visit this stranger ; but
thou didst comply with a call, and glad wast thou of
such an opportunity of doing good. As God helped
me, I laid his sin home upon him, his rash entrance,
negligent management, ill example, mispent time in
the ministry ; his dishonouring God, hardening the
wicked, damning his own soul, &c. I confess I was
very defective, and could not see the desired effect ;
and God hath hereby afresh convinced me, that it is
not in man's power to work grace, and that of all per-
sons, profane preachers are the most unlikely to be
wrought upon, God in justice denying grace to despis-
ers of grace. This poor man, I fear, is not rare as a
black swan, for he hath too many companions amongst
the depraved clergy of England. O how many aspire
at the office and maintenance, but are strangers to the
work and conscientiousness of ministers ! How many
enter in not by the door, but some other way, and so
are thieves and robbers in their entrance and progress,
and draw on them the guilt of the blood of souls !
Lord, what a sad state is this land in ! Blesssed Je-
sus, come with thy scourge of small cords, and drive
out the buyers and sellers from the temple ; rouse up
the slumbering shepherds that ought to watch the sheei),
but who drive them from the mount of God into for-
250 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
bidden paths of sin ; startle their consciences, lest
death leave them helpless and hopeless. Lord, thrust
out loiterers, or turn them to be labourers, and employ-
in thy harvest those that have been unemployed. Do
thou build up Zion, and appear in thy glory, and let
the earth be covered with the knowledge of God, as
the waters cover the sea. Why may not, even now,
thy almighty power change the hearts of profane
preachers, as when a multitude of priests became obe-
dient to the faith ? O poor souls, that have such blind
guides ! But, O sadder case of such dumb dogs that
cannot bark ; yea, greedy dogs that can never have
enough, but fill themselves with strong drink ! O that
God would give his people pastors according to his
own heart, that may feed them with knowledge and
understanding ! God forbid that I should advance
myself above others, but I will not deny what my dear
Lord hath done for me ; by the grace of God I am
what I am. Distinguishing grace hath counted me
faithful, and put me into the ministry, and hath made
me faithful in it; I thank my Lord Jesus Christ.
Lord, let this example quicken me in my Master's
work, and further my good account. Amen, amen."
When he had entered on the year 1682, Mr. H.
took a solemn review of the transactions of the preced-
ing year, and says : " I find that the special hand of
my dear Lord hath been upon me for good in his work,
wherein he hath helped me to be abundant. In the year
1681, God hath helped me in preaching on week days
105 sermons, keeping 50 fasts and 9 thanksgiving days,
and in ti-a veiling 1400 miles about my Master's work.
Having made this review, I set myself, Jan. 10, 1682,
to spend some time with my dear Lord in my closet,
and was from about nine to twelve o'clock in that em-
ployment. First, I fell on my face, and gave God the
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 251
glory of the preceding year's mercies, for about an
hour, O what a sweet, melting exercise it was ! Then
I spent another hour in confessing and bewailing my
sins that year, and begging pardon and strength.
Lastly, I read and expounded, as it fell in my course,
Ezekiel xxxiv, pleading the promises in the latter part
of it for the church. Reflections — O my soul, mayest
thou not sing of mercy and judgment ; mercy first,
and afterwards of judgment ? Sing of both, for God
hath allayed the sweetness of mercy with a dash of
wholesome wormwood in thy cup. Thy God remem-
bers mercy in the midst of judgment, sharply afflicting
and sweetly supporting, and making all tend to good.
Blessed be God. O what a year of mercies hath the
preceding been ! I have ridden many hundred miles
and met with no dangerous falls ; all my bones do say,
Lord, who is like to thee ? I have heard of many
others meeting with great troubles in short journeys
this year ; but God hath delivered my soul from death,
mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. An-
other year is added to, yet also taken from my life.
What art thou better, O my soul, at the end than thou
wast in the beginning of the year ? What increase of
grace, progress in holiness, and power against corruption,
hast thou acquired ? What good hast thou attained or
done to souls ? What additions hast thou made to thy
stock of knowledge, love to God, faith and repentance?
God hath been kind to thee ; hast thou been dutiful to
him, faithful to thy trust, and useful in thy generation? f
Have thy acts of obedience been daily renewed ? Canst
thou reflect with comfort on having spent the past
year? Thou hast been much employed; hast thou
been well employed ? Canst thou reflect with comfort
on the manner, as well as the number of thy works for
God ? Thou hast preached oft ; hast thou preached
252 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
well ? Thou hast put up many prayers ; canst thou
say they were sincere, believing, and fervent ? Thou
hast kept many fasts ; were they such as God hath
chosen ? What frame of spirit hast thou maintained
in all thy journeys ? What edifying discourse hast
thou uttered in all the companies thou hast conversed
with ? Alas ! I may take shame to myself. The sins
of the last year have been multiplied. It is well if all
scores between God and thy soul be cleared, when now
a new year is begun. If the Lord should mark ini-
quities, who can stand ? I cannot answer him for one
of a thousand. On attempting to cast up my accounts,
I find my arithmetic far short of recounting either
my mercies or sins : David accounts both innumerable,
and so may I. Mercy hath filled up every hour of the
day, and every moment of the hour ; and so have my
transgressions. Alas ! my thanksgiving days have
been short of my fasting days, and how much more
short of my mercies ! My repentings have been short
of my professions of humiliation ; but infinitely short
of proportion to my sins. How may I sit down won-
dering, that God hath not shaken me off the hand of
his providence, as a viper into the fire of hell ! Lord,
take thou the glory of the last year's mercies, and pardon
my offences and provocations. Wash away all scores
in the blood of Jesus. Give my soul the comfort, and
thy people the advantage of my daily labours in the
gospel. Give me grace for the services and sufferings
of the ensuing year. Maintain my liberty one year
more ; if not, fit me for daily crosses : and if this year
produce more notable revolutions of providence than
the preceding in mercy or judgment, O lead me safely
through all to thy glory and my comfort."
This year, orders were sent from the king and council
to suppress all conventicles, which were rigorously ob-
PEKSECUTION RENEWED. 253
served in many parts of the kingdom, particularly in
London and its neighbourhood. The peaceful assem-
blies of the saints were often disturbed by some hire-
ling informer, the minister imprisoned, and the hearers
fined. Warrants were issued by the justices of the
sessions, to all constables in their district, to search
those places in which it was most probable that reli-
gious meetings were held, by the Nonconformists.
They were to take the preacher and principal hearers
before some neighbouring justice, that they might be
fined or sent to prison, on the evidence of the informer
given on oath. At the sessions, the constables were
generally called upon to give an account of all the
conventicles they found, that they might be proceeded
against. Thus hosts of spies, allured by the hope of
sharing the spoil, sought out the meeting-places of
dissenters, and kept them in perpetual fear. Fre-
quently the officers in Mr. Heywood's township gave
him intelligence of the hours, they designed to call and
search his house, and he ordered the times of meeting
accordingly ; so that while many of his neighbouring
brethren were disturbed, he enjoyed his liberty. Hav-
ing experienced so much mercy in his preservation, he
set apart Aug. 30, 1682, as a day of thanksgiving for
ten years' liberty in religious exercises, since the date
of the licenses issued by Charles II. On this day he
thus wrote : " Notwithstanding many warrants issued
out against us, as well as others, we have been secured,
through the moderation of our officers, when all the
societies round about us have been sadly broken and
scattered."
Mr. H. spent much of this year in visiting his
friends at a distance, and those visits of friendship
were generally converted into journeys of mercy ; but,
while occupied with his labours of love, he was fre-
254 LIFE OF THE TtEV. O. IIEY'WOOD.
quently exposed to danger. The appearance of dif-
ficulty and peril did not, however, frighten him from
the path of duty. " Lord's day morning, Nov. 5th,"
he says, " heing at R. Forster's, near Horbury, and
having in my turn designed to preach at Alverthorp,
that day, I was much helped in secret prayer, and in
the parlour before day. But R. N. the high-constable,
with twelve officers, came to disturb us. Yet God
heard prayer — in assisting near an hour before he
came ; — in giving us notice and time for dispersing, so
that they took us not together ; — in preserving me
out of their hands, when they chiefly aimed to appre-
hend me, hunted me out in several places, searched the
house where I was, and the chamber with a lighted
candle, a bed only being the means to secure me ; —
and in giving opportunity to preach in the evening to
a full company."
At the close of this year, Mr. H. went to visit his
son, Eliezer, and was invited to accompany the family
in which his son was chaplain, in a journey to London.
The invitation was unexpected, but, he says, " I com-
mended the matter to God in prayer, and my heart
was much satisfied about it. This appeared very
strange to me, as I had not the least thought of it when
I came from home, nor was it possible to consult my
wife about it. We set out Dec. 25th, and returned to
Walling- v/ells, Feb. 9th, 1683. I was absent from my
own house eight v/eeks and a day, during which I
received many returns of prayer. God satisfied my
wife about my journey, though it was a surprize to
her at first. The company I journeyed with was very
obliging, kind, and tender to me, and God made me of
some use to them, by praying with them morning and
evening during the journey. We had fine weather for
the time of the year, and preservation from accidents.
VEllSECUTlOX RENEWED. 255
God found me hospitable entertainment and many
affectionate friends. He also gave me suitable work
in his wise providence, as I had an opportunity of
praying and preaching, both privately and publicly,
with safety, though it was a time of great hazard,
many ministers being disturbed and sent to prison.
By this visit, I became acquainted with many worthy
and holy men of God. I preached for Mr. Nathaniel
Vincent,* the Lord's day after he was apprehended,
yet no justices nor officers came near to interrupt us.
Blessed be God. It pleased God, by my preaching
that day, to set home conviction upon a young man
in the assembly, and it is hoped that it had a saving
effect. This is w^ortfi my journey to London ; let God
have the glory. I visited my son at Garson, and was
refreshed. I conversed with the company about mat-
ters of religion as we came down ; what fruit it may
have I know not, but God helped me to discharge my
conscience. When within three miles of home, my
horse stumbled in a snow-drift and fell, but I received
no harm. What reason for gratitude ! Being out of
the road, if I had broken my leg, I might have lain
and perished there. On my return home, found my
family well and comfortable. God preserved the pub-
lic peace of my congregation, though others had been
disturbed, and provided supplies for them every sab-
* JNIr. Nathaniel Vincent was ejected from the I'ectory of Lang-
ley Marsh, in Buckinghamshire, by the Act of Uniformity. He
came to London soon after the dreadful fire in 1666, and preached
with much zeal and success to large congregations amidst its
ruins. He collected a numerous congregation in Southwark, and
suffered much hardship, and many imprisonments and fines for the
cause of God and of souls. See Nonconformist Memorial, vol. i.
p. 304 — 308 — Wilson's History of Dissenting Churches, vol. iv.
p. 296—304.
256 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEVWOOU.
bath day. Blessed be my good God. Feb. 21st, We
kept a day of thanksgiving to pay our vows."
In the year 1683, Mr. H. was much exposed to
danger by his numerous labours at home and abroad,
but the special care of God was exercised over him,
in softening the hearts of his opponents or giving him
information of their intentions, and in disposing others
to behave kindly to him. He notices several instances
of this nature. " April 10th. Richard Jepson, a bailiff,
of Halifax, came to my house, and told my wife he
came to summons me to the sessions. We were soli-
citous about it and resolved not to go, though I feared
the consequences of refusing. God set my heart seri-
ously to seek him on that behalf together with some
christian friends. They afterwards went to the man,
gave him a small pittance, and he j^romised he would
not attend the sessions. He accordingly did not ap-
pear, and the justices were moderate v/ith the officers.
Ebenezer."
" I promised to go and preach among a people in
private, near Cross-stone Chapel, where God hath
begun a hopeful work in the hearts of several young
persons. The day fixed, was May 29th. The day
before I spent some time in prayer, when God aided
me in pleading with him for souls. Though I appre-
hended trouble, yet my heart was much carried out for
the conversion of sinners, so that I rose above the fear
of dangers. I thus expressed myself before God, *that
if he commanded m.e to go, and had any work for me
to do in that place, I would go, as Luther said, if there
were as many devils to oppose me as tiles or slates on
the houses.' Accordingly, in the name and strength of
my great Master, I set out about five o'clock in the
morning. My friend, who met me on the way, had
a
PEKSECUTION RENEWED. 257
great fears of danger, but God animated my lieart. I
rode about twelve miles, and about eleven o'clock
began my work. The house was very commodious,
and every part was full, and also many persons outside.
We began with a Psalm. I went to prayer, and God
exceedingly affected my heart, and made apparently
strong impressions on the people. I preached about
effectual calling, from 1 Pet. v. 10, and went peaceably
through the doctrinal part ; but when engaged in the
use of conviction, I heard a great bustle in the cham-
ber over my head, and, when I enquired the reason,
was told the constable v/as coming. I desired they
would compose themselves and hearken to God's word.
They did so ; and I went on. But I had not preached
much longer before the constable sent and desired me
to give over, for he had two warrants and would be
obliged to. take me if I did not forbear, and he was
unwilling; to meddle with me : so I made a little more
haste (having preached two hours) and dismissed the
people. After the prayer and blessing the constable
withdrew, while the people went away. I went into
the parlour, and after a while, he came again vritli
two men and pretended to search the house, but said
he was as loth to see me as I was to see him. He was
doubtless sent by Mr. Robinson, preacher at Cross-
stone Chapel, who had given notice to preach that day,
but no one attended. This certainly vexed him, for
great numbers came to the house to hear me. I con-
sider all this as a great mercy and a return of prayer.
God moderated the constable, assisted me in prayer
and preaching, though Satan had a spite against the
application of my sermon, and God suffered him to
prevent the full handling of that part of my subject.
The people were much affected with the providence.
"SVho can tell what good it may do ? Who can tell, but
VOL. I. s
2a8 LIFE OF THE liEV. 0. HEYWOOD.
the devil may have overshot the mark with his own
bow? God's call by that providence maybe louder
than the call by his ordinance. O that it may be so!"
" July 7tli. This evening, J. Oakes, the high con-
stable came to warn me against preaching at my house,
and said it would not be suffered. I told him, I acted
orderly, and hoped I did no harm. He said, he came
as a friend and I must take it in kindness ; I tjianked
him. He urged me to promise that I would not preach
on the following day, and because I would not, he went
away in an ill humour, and said, I must take the con-
sequence. I returned to my study, but my heart was
so shut up I could not pray, and was much troubled.
I had appointed the people to come at six o'clock in
the morning. In the course of my daily reading, I
read the 9th and 10th chapters of Exodus, in which I
thought there were many passages very suitable to my
case. I then sought God about that day, and he so
touched my heart that I thought I had a token for
good. About six o'clock several persons came, and,
after family duty, I began in my meeting-place. The
people came in apace, and O ! what a frame was my
heart in while engaged in prayer, especially at the
thought of my danger, man's anger, and the fear of
God's taking away our liberty. God helped exceedingly,
and the people were much affected. I began my ser-
mon on Heb. iii. 9, but I had not preached above half
an hour when an alarm was given that the constable
was coming. I dismissed the people, and they with-
drew in a fright ; but nobody came till above two
hours afterwards. They had agreed to come at ten
o'clock, but J. O. understanding tliat we had a meeting
early that morning, had hastened the constable. The
cause of their delay was, they were coming without
the churchwarden and had to send for him. In the
fERSECUTIO^^ RENEWED. 2,59
hieali time, I and several of iny people went to Coley
chapel, so that when the constable came to my house
and enquired if I was preaching, my servant answered,
no, I was gone to chapel. Mr. O. would scarcely be-
lieve her, though my wife tokl him the same. He
came to the chapel and saw me there. I came home
to dinner, and immediately after, preached my sermon
to a full assembly. After service the churchwarden,
constable, and two men came. I was vv'ithin, and they
showed me their warrants to search for conventicles
and plotters. When they were gone I went to chapel
again, and heard Mr. Ellison preach a very profitable
discourse on Matt. xi. 28. After my return, I repeated
my sermon at home to my neighbours. Thus God
graciously terminated this difficult matter. Blessed
be the name of God."
" July 21st, 1683, I went to preach at Morley. The
people there encouraged ine to go, but I had serious
apprehensions of danger. I prayed to God for liis
guidance and protection, and he cleared my way. I
was something more than ordinarily carried out in
prayer on that behalf. I lodged at J. C's, who not
being certain of my coming had given no notice. How-
ever they sent about to inform the people, and we ap-
pointed to begin at five o'clock in the morning. I rose
before four ; preached in a barn to about five hundred
hearers. I was comfortably assisted, and had no dis-
turbance ; we continued from about five till near ten.
In the afternoon having prayed, I repeated my sermon.
God helped next day in a solemn meeting for prayer at
T. D's ; and at my house on the Wednesday. Ebe-
nezer. Blessed be God."
" July 31st. We designed a journey into Lancashire,
but were m.uch perplexed about it ; I had engaged to
preach at Cockey chapel^ and had private business to
s 2
260 LIFE OF THE REV. O, HEYWOOD.
attend in tliat neighbourhood. There were great
rumours of warrants against me at liome, and I was
prevented from ])reaching in my own place. On the
other hand, if I went abroad it was given out that I
went to ca^'ry on the plot, or that I fled for fear of be-
ing apprehended as a j^lotter. What to do in this case
I knew not ; so I fled to my old refuge, and committed
myself into the hands of God and set forwards ; but
avoided going through market towns as much as
possible, that I might not give provocation. When I
arrived, I found Cockey chapel shut against me ; so
I performed my services privately in several places.
God assisted and protected me, and made it a comfort-
able journey. One observable circumstance I must set
down: Aug, 14th. We went to Darcey Lever; multi-
tudes of people came. I was helped in prayer and
preaching near an hour, when there came T. H's
son from Bolton, and acquainted us with the design of
some to disperse us. I ceased, some went away, others
hovered about. I went into a house, sent scouts to
watch and give notice, then went to work again and
preached out my sermon. No officer came, yet we did
hear it was a reality, but understanding we had broken
up, they came not. The contrivers were three or four
preachers, and some others. Father, forgive them."
Nov. 217th. Mr. Heywood repeated his visit to the
people near Cross-stone chapel, and though he met with
very homely fare, he was abundantly satisfied with his
journey. "I preached," says he, "on Jer. xiii. 17-
God sent abundance of people, though it was in the
night, and very dark and slippery. It did me good to
see such willingness, and my heart was much affected
with the sad condition of poor ignorant souls in the
want of powerful preaching. I struggled with them
iii my Lord's name three hours that night, till I was
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 261
tired and very hoarse. The inn-keeper there, took me
and my companion to his house, lodged us kindly, and
would take nothing for ourselves or horses. We were
much affected, and I prayed with the family at parting.
Who can tell what good may be done ? That shall be
my pay. It pleaseth me that I had not one penny
from them all, but gave the poor man a shilling at
whose house I preached ; nor had I a farthing at
Warley the night after, where also I preached ; nor
have I had any collections at home the two last quarters,
as formerly, God thinking good to exercise my faith by
preventing them. O my soul, what sayest thou to
these dispensations ? Dost thou make all kindly wel-
come ? Not a hair falls from my head, nor a sparrow
to the ground without a divine providence. Dost thou
willingly deny thyself in worldly things, so that thou
mayest do thy Master some service ? Thy dear Lord
seems to put thee to it, whether thou wilt be and act
according to thy former vows and solemn covenants,
that if the Lord will but make use of thee thou dost
not care what fare thou hast, or whether thou hast any
reward from men. Thou hast often breathed out such
like workings of heart as these, and now God will try
thee whether thou art in good earnest or not. O my
soul, what dost thou say ? Art thou freely content to
want as well as to abound ? Hast thou learned Paul's
lesson ? Lay thy hand upon thy heart — the heart-
searching God knows whether thou hast done these
things willingly or grudgingly. Dost thou repent that
thou didst not conform when such fair offers were
made thee at St. Martin's, in York, many years ago,
when thou wast under violent prosecutions in the spiri-
tual court? Dost thou not envy them that live in
pomp and prosperity, and wish thyself in their con-
dition ? My soul shall answer, and upon good advise-
262 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEVWOOD.
ment write it down this third day of December 1683,
above twenty-one years after our doleful ejection from
public stations ; That I am so well satisfied in my re-
fusing subscription and conformity to the terms en-
joined by law for the exercise of my public ministry,
that, notwithstanding all the taunts, rebukes, and
affronts I have had from men ; the weary travels for
many thousand miles ; the hazardous meetings, plun-
derings, and imprisonments ; the banishment from my
own house, coming home with fear in the night, &c.
(which are the least part of my affliction, for banishing
from my people and stopping my mouth have occasioned
many sad temptations and discouragements, lest God
should be angry with me, lay me aside and make no
use of me;) notwithstanding all this, I am so fully
satisfied in my conscience that my nonconformity as a
minister, is the way of God, and I have so much peace
in my spirit that what I do in the main is according
to God's word, that if I knew of all these troubles be-
fore-hand, and were to begin again, I would persist in
this course to my dying day, and, if God call me to it,
would seal it with my blood : for to me, (I decide not
for others,) full conformity would be sinful, and we
must resist unto blood, striving against sin."
Mr. H.had many journeys about this time, in which
both his faith and zeal were tried ; but the providence
and grace of God were his joy and support. March
13tli, 1684, he went to preach in Kirkburton parish,
though the weather v/as exceedingly unfavourable.
*' I set out," he says, " but found the way very dan-
gerous, for it snow-balled my horse's feet. I resolved
to call at Mr, Thorp's, Hopton-hall ; but going to-
v/ards the house, my horse fell, and I lay I know not
how. The same day, 1 had a more wonderful deli-
verance, for going in the snow from Mr. Lockwood's,
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 263
of Blakehouse, towards J. Arraitage's, having no track,
I missed my way, and got entangled in a wood among
bogs and dangerous precipices. I toiled hard, some-
times riding, and sometimes walking on foot till I was
out of breath. It was moonlight, and at last I got to
J. A's, where I was to preach. When I told him
where I had been, he was much astonished, and said
I did not know the hazard to which I had been ex-
posed, for the place is so dangerous, it is called Sinking-
hill, by the inhabitants. I preached to about forty
persons, on Matt. vi. 33, and went about half-a-mile
near twelve o'clock to lodge. The people gave me three
shillings and sixpence for my labours. I was well con-
tent and bless God. Now, O my soul, what improve-
ment dost thou make of these various providences ?
Our adversaries envy us all such pains, and toil,
and hazard for our dear Lord and the good of sinners.
They enjoy their rich livings, fair parsonages, and
fruitful glebes ; they step out of their houses into their
churches, read their easy service, say their eloquent
orations, eat the fat and drink the sweet ; are com-
panions with gentlemen and peers of the realm ; have
their thousands a year, make laws for us, and yet think
much at our having a poor livelihood, and a little
honest work, weeping and wrestling with God and
sinners to do good. They call us schismatics, and
seditious ; they exasperate magistrates against us,
punish, banish, and imprison us ; confiscate our goods,
excommunicate and censure us, and think and say we
are not worthy to live, while we live peaceably, pray
for them, and dare challenge them if ever they found
fault in us save in the matters of our God. O Lord !
judge between them and us, and plead the cause of thy
servants : let the Lord be with the good. In the mean
time, O my soul; thou hast great reason to admire the
264 LIFE OF THE KEV. O. IIEYWOOD.
gracious providences of God, in this instance espe-
cially. If I had been hurt, I might have perished
before I had been found, and it would have been a
grief to my friends, and a laughing-stock to ray ene-
mies ; but my God had mercy on me, and sent his
angels to bear me up in their hands : let God have the
glory. May but sinners be gained to him, I have the
reward of all my travels. I have satisfaction in the
review of my labours in the gospel, and think it will
afford me more comfort in after-times than all our
churchmen's worldly ease, honour, revenues, and gran-
deur. Let them take these, since they are their choice;
1 have my choice, and though it be grievous to the
flesh, yet the satisfaction I have in my own conscience
abundantly countervails it. IMethinks our condition is
something like the apostle's. 1 Cor. iv. 10 — 13. xvi. 9-
2 Cor. iv. 8—12. vi. 3—10. xi. 23—33.
In 1684, various means were adopted to increase the
persecution against the Nonconformists. At Exeter,
an order was made by the justices at the quarter sessions
against dissenting ministers, offering a reward of forty
shillings to anj^ person for apprehending one of them ;
and the bishop required the order to be read by all
the clergy the next Lord's day after it should be ten-
dered to them. This was probably in consequence of
the king's having issued his commands to the justices
and others, " to use their utmost endeavours to sup-
press all conventicfes and meetings on pretence of reli-
gious worship, it being his express pleasure that the
laws be effectually put in execution against them, both
in city and country." Bishop Burnet, whose impartiality
as an historian deserves commendation, speaking of the
persecution of the Dissenters in this year, says, " they
were not only proceeded against for going to conven-
ticles, so their meetings for the worship of God were
PERSECUTION llENEVVED. 265
called, but for not going to church, and for not receiv-
ing the sacrament. The laws made against papists,
with relation to those particulars, being now applied
to them. Many were excommunicated and ruined by
these prosecutions."* So highly did the persecution
* The following account may not be considered out of place
here, especially as in the West Riding of Yorkshire, the circum-
stances are, by an interchange of names, commonly related of Sir.
Heywood : — " ]\Ir. Peter Ince, ejected from Dunhead in Wiltshire,
was a good scholar, well skilled in the languages, particularly in
the Hebrew, and an excellent practical preacher. He had an ad-
mirable gift in prayer, and on public occasions, would pour forth
his soul with such spirituality, variety, fluency, and affection, that
he was called. Praying Ince. After being silenced he lived Avith
Mr. Grove, that ornament of his country for learning, piety, and
public spiritedness. The subsequent relation was communicated
by the Rev. Josiah Tompson, who received it from an intimate
friend of I\Ir. Bates, the late aged minister of Warminster, as he
he had often heard it from IMr. Bates himself, who had spent much
time and labour in collecting accoimts of the most remarkable
providences relating to the church, but who unhappily and unac-
countably, burnt them a little before his death.
"Not long after the year 1662, IMr. Grove, a gentleman of great
opulence, whose seat was near Birdbush, upon his wife's lying
dangerously ill, sent to the minister to pray with her. When the
messenger came, he was just going out with the hounds, and sent
word he would come when the hunt was over. Mr. Grove ex-
pressing much resentment against the minister, for chusing rather
to follow his diversions than attend one of his flock in such cir-
cumstances, one of the servants took the liberty to say, ' Sir, our
shepherd, if you will send for him, can pray very well ; we have
often heard him at prayer in the field.' Upon this he was im-
mediately sent for ; and Mr. Grove asking him whether he ever
did or could pray, the shepherd fixing his eyes upon him with
peculiar seriousness in his countenance, replied, ' God forbid. Sir,
I should live one day without prayer.' He was then desired to
pray with the sick lady ; which he did so pertinently to her case,
with such fluency and fervency of devotion, as greatly to astonish
the husband, and all the family who were present. When they
arose from their knees, the gentleman addressed him to this
effect : ' Your language and manner discover you to be a very
266 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
against them prevail at this time, that the prisons were
crowded with them and many died in confinement.
Mr. Heywood could not be expected to escape appre-
hension at such a time, unless he had abated in zeal
and activity. It was in this year he was guilty of that
supposed crime for which he suffered nearly twelve
months' imprisonment in York Castle. The following
is the account he has left of this memorable event : —
" Aug. 17th. There came several bailiffs and as-
sistants to my house, about six o'clock in the morning,
and indeed were upon us before we were aware, for
they were tying their horses at W. Clay's gate, when
a lad came running to give us notice ; and though we
did disperse before they got into the room, yet they
saw the people about the house in the lane and croft.
They slipped in at the back door as people went out,
and found me and made me promise to go before Justice
Horton the day after, who bound me over to the
sessions at Wakefield, where I was to appear, Oct. 10th,
1684." On the day appointed he made his appearance,
and was rather severely handled, but permitted to
enter his traverse. His pious friends, most of whom
had been benefitted by his labours, were much con-
cerned for his safety and comfort. " There were," he
observes, " great thoughts of heart on my account,
different person from what your appeai'ance indicates. I conjure
you to inform me who and what you are, and what were your
views and situation in life before you came into my service.'
Upon which he told him, that he was one of the ministers who had
been lately ejected from the church, and that havmg nothing of
his own left, he was content for a livelihood to submit to the
honest and peaceful employment of tending sheep. On hearing
this, Mr. Grove said to him, ' Then you shall be my shepherd,'
and immediately erected a meeting-house on his own estate, in
which IMr. Ince gathered a congregation of Dissenters, which
continues to subsist to this day." — Noiicotifonnht's Memorial vol.
Hi, jwge 362— 3Gi.
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 267
and these sad thoughts stirred up strong cries and
prayers both by us, and in many i)laces for us. I
wondered to see how God's people were concerned for
such a poor creature as I. My own heart was much
drawn out, not so much for deliverance, as that the
affair might be so managed as would be most for the
credit of the gospel and the honour of God. My heart
was enlarged in secret, and when engaged with others
on this account, pleading Matt, x. 18 — 20. Blessed be
God, he hath bowed his ear to hear in many respects.
1. I have had considerable liberty in the interim both
at home and abroad, and no one has attempted to sur-
prise or make us forfeit our bonds. 2. God hath raised
up several friends to speak for me and write to the
justices, particularly Esquire Harris, whom I know
not, who represented me as loyal and a sufferer for his
majesty; it is thought this had great influence. 3.
God sent Sir John Kay, a man of great mildness and
moderation to be the chief speaker that day, and to
moderate the bench, so that they behaved respectfully
and did not give me angry words. 4. When the clerk
offered to produce an indictment against me for a cir-
cumstance that took place fourteen years ago, Mr.
Pebles said, we will not look so far back. 5. When
one person began to give a relation of his coming to
my house, &c. Sir John Kay silenced him. 6. The
justices never mentioned my last book,* which Mr.
Horton had produced, and would put me to vindicate
in open court. 7. They took no notice of the Five-
mile Act, which I am daily transgressing when at
home, and which was what I most feared. 8. They
permitted me to enter my traverse and accejited my
bondsmen that were in the court. 9. They did not
deal rigidly with my friends, only they fined two of
* Israel's Lamentation.
268 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
them twenty shillings apiece, and when they pleaded
poverty, they required their promise to attend no more
at such meetings, and upon their refusal cast them into
prison that night, and set them at liberty in the morn-
ing. As for W. Clay, a blind man, for whom we were
most concerned, he came off the best, for though he
had entered his traverse and gone out of court, they
sent for him again, fined him ten shillings and dis-
missed him. 10. I am much satisfied that the bailiffs
are to have nothing for their pains, which might have
encouraged them to new attempts, for upon the jury's
finding it a 7'iot, they will not have any thing at the
sessions when we traverse. Ebenezer."
It was now highly necessary Mr. Heywood should
conduct himself with more than common jDrudence,
lest he should prejudice his cause, and be found forfeit-
ing his engagement to keep the peace, by which was
meant that he should not preach. Souls were perish-
ing around him for lack of spiritual knowledge, and
yet he was afraid to speak to them " that they might
be saved." The state of his mind under these circum-
stances, he thus describes : " I am in the heaviest
condition as to my liberty of doing God service and
good to souls, that ever I was in all my life. Men
have broken in upon us, scattered our meeting, and
indicted me for a riot. I am bound in £lOO. traverse
and to be of good behaviour. My adversaries are
watching me narrowly to find me forfeiting my bond.
They have caught W. N,* charged him to be witness
* This person was a hearer of Mr. Haywood's, and became his
companion in tribulation : refusing to give evidence against him,
he was committed to York castle, where he remained till the
jMarch assizes. jMr. H. was much concerned for this poor luan,
and anxious for his release, but did not know what steps were
the most proper to be taken to accomplish his Avishes. " Behold,"
PEllSECLTTION RENEWED. 269
against me, are laying wait for others, and few dare
own me. Providences seem to make against me, and
that which is the heaviest burden of all is, it is the
occasion of some difference between my wife and my-
self ; for she being naturally timorous, when we are
above the number of four she is perple^jed exceedingly,
though it be not purposely but providentially. Truly
my zeal for God's glory and love to souls, on the one
side — and endeared love to my wife, fears of being
censured for rashness and indiscretion by prudent per-
sons, and making myself a prey to knaves, on the
other side — do so rack and torture my spirit that it
almost makes me weary of my life. I know not what
to do, and am often forced to go contrary to my wife's
mind. Sometimes God helps me in prayer to roll my-
self on him, and then I am easy ; but, O ! how often I
am at a loss. O my soul, this is a very great strait
that Providence has brought thee into ! The hand of
the Lord is gone out against me : ' Thou, O Lord,
hast proved me,' &c. Ps. Ixvi. 10 — 12. O that I could
say, ' Thou hast brought out into a wealthy (or spa-
cious) place.' How long shall thy church be thus
sadly confined ? How long wilt thou hide thy face
from me ? How long shall human inventions keep
out divine ordinances ? How long shall the hand of
the magistrate be stretched out against thy poor minis-
ters ? How long shall the wicked be encouraged in
plotting and informing against thy poor servants for
worshipping thee ? O my dear Lord, dost thou ap-
prove the malicious and covetous practices of impious
men? Wherefore lookest thou not upon them that
says he, " God set him at liberty by a way of his OAvn. At the
latter end of the assizes, when the calendar was read over in court
and they came to his name, Mr. Butler said, ]\Iy lord, this is a
poor man, if it please your lordship, let his name be blotted out.
He consented. It was a great mercy. Blessed be God."
870 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
deal treacherously, and boldest thy peace when the
wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous than
he ? Lord, hast thou no respect unto thy servants ?
Would not thy ministers gladly preach thy word, and
travail on account of poor sinners ? Do not our people
long to hear their former pastors ? Doth it not go to
the heart of this poor worm to hear the people say,
' When shall we come and hear you ?' They are de-
sirous to come by day or by night ; but prudence or
danger forbids us to receive them. * Mine eyes do fail
with tears, my bowels are troubled, my liver is poured
on the earth, for the destruction of the daughter of my
people ; because the children and the sucklings swoon
in the streets of the city : they say to their mothers,
where is corn and wine ?' Our hearts ache, to consi-
der the perishing condition of thousands of precious
souls, and the pining state of gracious saints that are
forced to live upon old store. ' The harvest truly is
plenteous and the labourers are few.' O thou Lord of
the harvest, thrust in labourers whom men have thrust
out these twenty-two years. Lord, take away these
troublous days, or take us away from them, if thou
hast no more work for us to do in this world. Hide
us in the grave until thy wrath be past, or renew our
days as of old."
Jan. I6th, 1685, Mr. Hey wood again appeared at
Wakefield, and was indicted for having a riotous
assembly in his house, because he had preached the
gospel of peace to above four grown persons. Strange
as the nature of the indictment appears, it is still more
astonishing that a British jury should find him guilty.
The sentence of the court was, that he should be fined
in the sum of £50. and procure two sureties for his
future good behaviour ; and because he could not pay
the fine, and would not promise to desist from preach-
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 271.
ing, he was committed prisoner to York Castle. A
petition was drawn up and presented to the court in
mitigation of the fine, but such was the severity of the
justices, they resolved the whole should be paid. In
the midst of this afflictive dispensation he observed much
mercy, which he thus records with lively gratitude of
heart : " Though my dear Lord did not think fit to
answer the multiplied and importunate prayers of his
servants, for my deliverance out of trouble or the pre-
vention of my imprisonment, yet God hath heard
prayers in mercifully ordering affairs for me when in
trouble. 1. The justices were not rude, and Mr. White
said he had heard a better character of me, than of any
of my way. 2. The bailiffs gave liberty to my friends
to come and see me, though I found it was for their own
ends. 3. All my friends were abundantly satisfied of
the justice of my cause, even adversaries were convinc-
ed I was hardly dealt with. 4. I was clear and com-
fortable in my conscience, and the £50. fine was not so
grievous to me as the bond for good behaviour, as
they explain it. 5. Both friends and foes pitied my
case. 6. My wife was as cheerful as could be expected,
and expressed her willingness that I should go to pri-
son, rather than enter into such bonds. 7. My friends
relieved me, so that though I was put to extraordinary
expenses the week I was a prisoner at Wakefield, yet I had
as much money when I left as when I entered the town.
8. God moved the heart of the York jailor to trust my
son John to bring me to York, so that we had many
sweet opportunities of prayer together, and freedom of
conversation v/ith our friends at Leeds and York,
which was a great comfort to me. 9. Mr. Butler the
jailor consulted my convenience, and turned a conform-
ist minister out of his chamber that I might have a
room to myself ; and I have all the conveniences I can
272 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
desire, as if in a friend's house. 10. I have sjiiritual
privileges, opportunities of communion v/ith God, li-
berty of studying and writing, the delightful company
of Mr. Whitaker * and his wife, who are in the next
* " Mr. Thomas Whitaker was of a very ancient family in Lan-
cashire. In 1676, he became the minister of a large congregation
of Nonconformists in Call Lane, Leeds, and had a full share of the
hardships and persecutions of the times ; yet he was so respected
by the mayor and aldermen, that they often absented themselves
when they had reason to expect the informers. At length, one
Kirshaw lodged an information against him, and he was committed
to the jail, in York, January, 1684. This trial was aggravated by
the death of his wife while he was in prison. After his liberation,
he renewed and pursued his ministry in peace, and was respected
by all till his death, Nov. 19th, 1710, in the 34th year of his pas-
toral connexion at Leeds. He left two sons; William, after-
wards a physician in London, and Thomas, who succeeded him.
Mr. Thomas Whitaker, jun. purchased the estate of Kirshaw, the
informer against his father, and actually relieved his posterity,
greatly reduced by the vices of their parent." — Toulmin's His-
torical View of the State of the Protestant Dissenters. Appendix,
p. 575, 576. Mr. Whitaker was born at Healy, near Burnley,
in 1651. He received the rudiments of learning from his worthy
father, and in various schools at Burnley, Blackburn, and ]\Ian-
chestei'. He became a student of Mr. Frankland's, at Rathmel,
and finished his studies at Edinburgh, where he took his degree
of M.A. INIr. Thomas Jollie he venei'ated and loved as his spiri-
tual father and counsellor. His views of church government were
congregational, and " his way of understanding the great doc-
trines of election, redemption, justification, conversion, and per-
severance, was agreeably to the churches of England, Scotland,
and Geneva ; yet he thought it both a slavery upon ministers, and
a damp to their success, when they suited their style rather to
the jingle of a party than to the nature of their subject."t He
was unwilling to baptize any child, if one of the parents was not
a stated member of some church, considering it an irregularity
for a person to own the covenant for his infant, who had neglected
the proper means of doing it for himself. When ]Mr. W. took
leave of his sons on his djing bed, after charging them to serve the
Lord God of their father, he left them to the disposal of Provi-
•j- Bradbury's Preface to Wliitaker's Sermons.
PERSECUTION KENEWEI). Q73
chamber, and many worthy servants of God come out of
the city to pray and discourse with me. Blessed be God."
During the former part of Mr. Heywood's confine-
ment in York castle, he was much annoyed by the dis-
solute and riotous behaviour of a papist confined for
debt in a neighbouring apartment ; but after a short
time he was removed. Considering all circumstances,
Mr. H. was as comfortable as could be expected ; his
time was much occupied in the improvement of his
mind by study, or in the promotion of the spiritual
welfare of others, as he had opportunity. The manner
in which he usually spent the day, when not disturbed
by company, was this : " After our rising, we kneeled
down and I went to prayer with my wife. — She in her
closet, and I in the chamber, went to secret prayer
alone. — Then I read a chapter in the Greek Testament
while I took a pipe. — Then a chapter in the Old Tes-
tament with Poole's Annotations. — Then wrote a little
here, (diary) or elsewhere. — At ten o'clock, I read a
chapter and went to prayer with my wife as family
prayer. — Then wrote in some book or treatise I was com-
posing till dinner. — After dinner, Mr. Whitaker and I
read in turn for an hour in Fox's Acts and Monuments
of Martyrs, Latin edition. Then went to my chamber ;
if my wife were absent, I spent an hour in secret pray-
er, and God helped usually. — After supper, we read in
the book of Martyrs, studied, went to prayer, read in
Baxter's paraphrase on the New Testament." Besides
dence in the choice of their calling, but with this character of the
ministry : " that though it had cost him so dear, yet he had served
a good Master, and was never ashamed nor weary of his work."
See " Memoriae Sacrum," by Timothy Jollie, and Preface, by
Thomas Bradbury, to the Sermons, published after his death.
His funeral sermon was preached by Thomas Dickenson, of
Northowram, from 2 Sam. iii. 38. Mr, Thomas Bradbury also
preached on the same occasion, from Acts xx. 32.
VOL. I. T
274 LIFE OF THE KEY. O. HEYWOOD.
the occasional visits of friends from the country, many
of Mr. H.'s acquaintances in the city were permitted to
visit him, particularly on the Lord's day. Mr. Whitaker
and he usually preached alternately in each other's room,
when some of the prisoners and the jailor's wife often
composed a part of the congregation. He might
have adopted the language of the apostle Paul when
writing to the Philippians : " The things which hap-
pened unto me, have fallen out rather unto the further-
ance of the gospel."
After an expensive confinement during nearly twelve
months, and after many fruitless attempts had been
made to obtain his release, a friend prevailed with the
newly-appointed sherifT to grant his liberty, provided
the fine was paid at the assizes. This was granted,
and Mr. H. took his leave of York castle, Dec. 19th,
1685. " At last," he says, " God hath graciously an-
swered the incessant prayers of his church for my de-
liverance out of prison. The particular mercies in my
enlargement were many, which I have great reason to
review. 1. It came after long expectation and frequent
disappointments, so that our hopes were almost con-
verted into despair ; when God turned back my capti-
vit)^ I was like one that dreamed. 2. The person
whom God em^iloyed to obtain it had sometimes
failed me, and I had reason to fear he had forgotten
me; but when the time came, he set himself resolutely
about it. He went to the high sheriff and found him
at home. He was treated with kindness and his re-
quest granted, though the sheriff is a high man, and
rebuked Mr. G. at the assizes for interceding for such
a one as I was. 3. It was much wondered at, that
Mr. Ash the under-sheriff, who is now jailor also, did
not dissuade the high sheriff from it, being so much
against his profit, which is the main thing such men
PF.TJSECUTIOX T?EXr.WED. 27^
look at. 4. It was the more remarlcable that the high
sheriff should consent, as it was quite optional and in-
deed not strictly legal ; but such men's oversights are
easily overlooked. 5. It is a strange thing he did not
send for me and bind me over to good behaviour, or
require me to promise not to keep conventicles. 6.
The day after I was set at liberty, I received a letter
from London, concerning the improbability of my
friends there getting my fine compounded. 7- I am in
a sort a prisoner yet, till my fine is paid, and under
the sheriff's protection, yet liberty is sweet and my
own house comfortable. Thus my dear Lord keeps us
still in dependance upon him, exercising our faith and
prayers ; for if we had all our mercies at once, we
should be in danger of taking our leave of God : a
waiting posture is needful, and we never have so much
of God but we need more of him while here below.
8. The bond that was procured was only for the pay-
ment of the fine at the assizes. 9. My great care and
solicitude during my imprisonment were for my peo-
ple, that their souls might be provided for. God took
care of them, and sent persons to administer ordinances,
so that I found them in a good and hopeful situation
for soul's affairs on my return. Blessed be God."
His return home excited the abundant thanksgivings
of many, and was the cause of much praise from him-
self. He set apart two days for thanksgiving and
prayer, and renewing his engagements to serve the
Lord. On the latter of these occasions he thus writes :
" God carried me to York, that there he might show
great and marvellous things to my soul which I knew
not ; he quickened me, instructed and comforted me
more than ever before. He gave my body health be-
yond expectation, increased my credit amongst his
people, and added to my estate considera])ly by tripling
T 2
270 I.IYK OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
my former income : thus what men devised for my
hurt, hath turned to my advantage ; yea, I now per-
ceive my sufferings have tended to the furtherance of
the gospel. Let God have the glory."
At the spring assizes he appeared at York, but the
jailor said he could not legally receive him ; he there-
fore returned home, convinced that nothing was now
expected but the payment of his fine, which he hoped
would be mitio^ated. At this time there was an act of
grace, or gaol delivery, in which it was expected his
case would have been included ; but being a fine on
execution it was not. At the summer assizes some
advised him to petition the judges, but his friend who
had obtained his release attended with him, and offered
the under sheriff £30 ; which he agreed to accept, and
returned the bond for £50. " Thus," he observes, " we
are quit of this business : blessed be God. All my in-
telligent friends look on it as a good termination."
In the interval between Mr. Hey wood's release and
the payment of his fine, he was assiduously employed
in his Master's service, in which he enjoyed much of
the divine presence. "March 24th, 1686. That very
day twenty years," he says, " on which the banishing
act took place, and when I left home with a sad heart,
despairing of ever settling again at Coley, on that very
day the Lord brought a considerable number of my
people together under my roof, when God helped me
in praying and preaching, and Mr. Dawson in prayer.
We also celebrated that delightful ordinance, the Lord's
supper, and had something of the Lord's presence.
Who would have thought of such a thing after a year's
intermission ! In this God hath exceeded our hopes,
and counteracted our fears. Blessed, for ever blessed
be his holy name ! From this time it shall be said,
* What hath God wrought ! How excellent is thy name
PERSECUTION RENEWED. 277
in all the earth !' I take this mercy as a pledge of
more."
He embraced an early opportunity of visiting his
native place, and on his return says : " I rode many
miles, lodged at nine or ten places, and preached thir-
teen times. I had much nmtual comfort with my re-
lations, it being the first time I had seen them since
my imprisonment. They were glad of my company,
and God graciously preserved me. One passage I
must not forget in this journey : I preached at ray
cousin J. L's, on the nature of conversion, from Matt.
xviii. 3, and A. Smith of Bolton spoke to me after-
wards, and said it was a gracious providence that she
should hear me again on that text, for by a sermon I
had preached from it many years ago, God had wrought
on her heart ; she is an excellent Christian. Let God
have the glory. Another remarkable thing was, that
that morning one Davis of Bolton, a bad man, was
seen coming towards the place where I had been preach-
ing but was too late ; the people met him as they
went back. Howbeit, he threatens to inform against
them unless they give him money."
When Mr. Whitaker, who had been detained a pri-
soner in York Castle, longer than Mr. Heywood, had
obtained his release, he came to visit his fellow pri-
soner, and unite in mutual praises to God for their
deliverance. "Aug. 9th, 1686," Mr. H. say, "my
fellow prisoner, Mr. Whitaker came to my house, and
remained with me a week, which God helped us to im-
prove to his glory and his people's good. On Tuesday
he preached at Warley to a great number. Wednes-
day, he and I had exercises in my house. In the even-
ing he preached at T. Priestley's, and next morning at
W. Naylor's. After that we kept a day of prayer and
praise, when I preached : it was a good day. Friday,
278 LIFE or THE UEV. O. IIEYWUUD.
I appointed as a day of tliauk fulness, though God took
away Mr. Whitaker's wife while he was a prisoner.
Blessed, blessed be God, who hath not only set us at
liberty, but given vis the liberty of ordinances without
threats or disturbances." Hence it appears, that the
sufferings of those servants of God for conscience' sake
had not diminished, but rather increased their zeal for
the divine glory. The hope of publicly serving the
cause of their divine Master was at first very faint ;
but he, who is Governor among the nations, was secretly
preparing the means for the establishment of religious
liberty in this land. Their deliverance from prison
w^as but a short time antecedent to those events which
introduced the glorious revolution, and was a presage
of that release from open persecution which Dissenters
have since enjoyed.
PART VII.
Death of Charles II. and Accession of James II. — Declaration for
Libert// of Worship — Commencement of the Dissenting Interest at
Halifax — Erection of the Chapel at Northowram — The Revolution
— Mr. Heywood's Annual Covenant — His Sickness — The Con-
gregations at Alverthorj) and Pontcfract — Instances of Mr. Hey-
wood's Usefulness — His Journey to York — Renewed Covenants —
Last Visits to Lancashire and York — Invitations to London and
Manchester — ReJlectio7is on the Year 1698 — Visit of Mr. Timothy
Jollie — Sickness of his Wife and Son John — Return of his Bap-
tismal Day — Last Year of Mr. Heytvood's- Life.
During the imprisonment of Mr. Heywood in York,
Charles II. died and was succeeded by his brother
James. The reign of Charles was a memorable period
to the Nonconformists. Flis character has been diffe-
rently described by various writers, but the history of
his actions shows us what he really was. Bishop
Burnett justly remarks : " No part of his character
looked meaner or more wicked, than that he, all the
while that he professed to be of the church of England
and to have zeal and affection for it, was yet secretly
reconciled to the church of Rome ; thus mocking God,
and deceiving the world by so gross a prevarication.
His not having the honesty or courage to own this at
last, his not showing any sign of remorse for his ill-
spent life, or any tenderness, either for his subjects in
general, or for the queen and his servants, and his
recommending only his mistresses to his brother's
care, would have been a strange conclusion to the life
of any other, but was well enough suited to all the
280 LIFE OF THE KEV. O. HEYWOOD.
parts of his." James, who was an acknowledged
papist, ascended the throne of England, Feb. 6th, 1685.
It was universally known that the former sovereign
was guided by popish counsels, and every body ex-
pected the new monarch would be under the same
guidance. Charles had scourged the dissenters with
whips, and James, it was supposed, would chastise
them with scorpions. He had, an appropriate instru-
ment in the merciless Jeffries, who filled the office of
Lord Chief Justice. Popery made rapid progress on
the accession of James II, and threatened to overspread
the nation. Fears among the members of the established
church, as well as the Dissenters, were awakened, and
those who a little before had been persecutors of their
brethren for conscience' sake, now courted the friend-
ship of those whom they had formerly despised. But
when the storm appeared to be gathering thick, which
threatened the Nonconformists with almost total ex-
tinction, they were suddenly surprised with the pros-
pect of religious liberty. The mercenary judges had
given it as their opinion, that the laws of England
were the king's laws, that it was a branch of his pre-
rogative to dispense with all penal laws at particular
times, and that he was the sole judge of those occasions.
The king acquainted his council that he had deter-
mined to send forth a declaration for general liberty of
conscience to all persons of every persuasion, and that
he had given orders to the attorney and solicitor
general, not to permit any process to issue in his
majesty's name against Dissenters. April 10th, 1687,
Mr. Heywood received a copy of the king's declaration,
on which he observes : " Many prayers have been put
up for the liberty of God's ministers to preach the
gospel, and we have been under a long restraint for
twenty-four years ; though sometimes we have enjoyed a
LIBERTY RESTORED. 281
little more liberty in private than at other times. Our
circumstances of late have been very sad, and we ex-
pected on the death of Charles II. to be either put
to death or banished ; but God hath strangely influ-
enced the heart of king James to favour us and pro-
claim liberty to all prisoners, and to take off the fines
imposed for private meetings. A copy has come to my
hands, which is as follows :
*The king was pleased this day, March 18th, 1687,
in council to declare, he thought fit for divers weighty
considerations, that the parliament should be prorogued
from the 28th of April to the 22nd of Nov. next ; and
his Majesty did also acquaint the council, that he had
resolved in the mean time to issue out a declaration for
general liberty of conscience to all persons of what per-
suasion soever, which he was moved to by having ob-
served that, though a uniformity in religious worship
had been endeavoured to be established within this
kingdom, in the successive reigns of four of his Ma-
jesty's predecessors, assisted by their respective par-
liaments, yet it hath altogether proved ineffectual :
that the restraint upon the consciences of the Dis-
senters thereunto had been very prejudicial to this
nation, as was sadly experienced by the horrid rebel-
lion in the time of his majesty's royal father : that
the laws made against Dissenters, in all the foregoing
reigns, and especially in the time of the late king, had
rather increased than lessened the number of them :
and that nothing can more conduce to the peace and
quiet of this kingdom, and the increase of the number
as well as of the trade of his subjects, (wherein the
greatness of a prince doth more consist than in the
extent of his territories,) than an entire liberty of con-
science ; it having always been his majesty's opinion,
as most suitable to the principles of Christianity, that
282 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
110 man should be persecuted for conscience, which his
majesty thinks is not to be forced, and that it can never
be the true interest of a king of England to endeavour
it. And his majesty was also pleased to direct his
attorney and solicitor general, not to permit any pro-
cess to issue in his majesty's name against any dissen-
ter whatsoever,' &c.
" This design creates displeasure in many of the
church of England, and in some Dissenters, and
jealousy in most, who suspect some other design there-
in. However it may prove, it becomes us thankfully
to accept this immunity, to improve opportunities of
service, give God the glory of all, and hope and pray
that the churches of God may make it conducive to-
wards the propagation of the gospel and the conversion
of sinners. Amen. According to this promise, a de-
claration came forth, April 4th, entitled his Majesty's
gracious declaration for liberty of conscience, in which
he gives liberty to all his loving subjects to meet and
serve God after their own way and manner, in private
houses, or places hired or built for that purpose. This
came to my hand April 10th, and I perceive all minis-
ters accordingly do preach publicly. Blessed be God.
Ebenezer. On that day I preached in my own house,
and many flocked thither, among whom was the
youngest son of my dear friend J. Priestley, and it
pleased God to touch his conscience from what I said
on Nahum i. 15. Blessed be God for these first fniits
of a hoped-for harvest. Lord, go on and perfect that
which thou hast wrought for us."
The king promised to get this declaration established
by law, and appointed commissioners to go into the
several comities, and ascertain what money or goods
had been levied on the Nonconformists by prosecutions
for recusancy, and not paid into the Exchequer. The
LlBEllTV llESTOKED. 283
information he received respecting the oppressions of
Dissenters afforded him pleasure, for by relieving
them he expected their attachment, and they now had
a favourable opportunity of being revenged on their
former opponents ; but having the cause of Protes-
tantism at heart, and hoping to experience greater
moderation for the future, they generously passed all
by. Every body knew the king had no desire to favour
the Nonconformists by these measures, but that his
real design was to encourage popery ; yet when it is
recollected with what rigour they had been treated
nearly twenty-five years, it cannot surprise us that
they embraced this opportunity with joy, and in some
instances with thankfulness.
Many of Mr. Heywood's friends and hearers resided
in Halifax, and when James's declaration for liberty
of conscience was published, they rented a large room
in, or near, the town for their greater convenience, and
requested his labours there one part of the Lord's day,
or every alternate sabbath ; and he may be considered
as the founder of the dissenting interest in that town.
But this division of service, though calculated to pro-
mote the furtherance of the gospel, did not give satis-
faction to the whole of his congregation. " I com-
menced preaching at Halifax-bank-top," he says, " July
3rd, 1687, and had a great attendance of people. But
my friends at Coley were much discouraged at mj'^
leaving them in the afternoon, though I advised with
them beforehand, and obtained the consent of most for
that day, but they were not willing that I should go
every Lord's day afternoon. Murmurings arose, and
some peevish words were uttered. I was much
troubled, could not sleep, and aggravated things in my
imagination. At last I committed the matter to God
in prayer. My friends at Halifax were much troubled,
284 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
and a meeting was appointed, July 19tli. God won-
derfully melted oui* hearts in prayer for composing
spirits, and liberty was given me till the meeting-place
in Shelf should be got ready. I have made use of this
liberty with great comfort and satisfaction till this day,
Feb. 4th. Multitudes of people have flocked to the
place and heard with attention, and some have been
convinced by my preaching. Blessed be God."
Emboldened by the liberty enjoyed through the king's
declaration, the Nonconformists began to erect con-
venient places for public worship. Hitherto Mr. Hey-
wood's hearers had assembled in his own house, which
was not sufficient to accommodate the numbers now dis-
posed to attend his ministry. Various attempts were
made to build a chapel, and several places were men-
tioned as suitable for that purpose, but none met with
cordial approbation. At length Mr. H. undertook the
work alone, and at his own expense, concerning which
he thus writes : " When I was in prison, I had many
solemn thoughts of heart, and made serious vows what
I would do for God if ever I had my liberty ; and in
these God hath answered my desires. I have had far
more opportunities of service since my release from im-
prisonment than before, and more assistance than
formerly ; blessed be God. One thing I vowed con-
ditionally, that if God gave me property in the world,
I would lay it out for him and the good of his church ;
and my Lord hath answered me in both. He hath
given me something to expend, and a heart to lay out
what I have. I have long had it on my mind to erect
a school, but had no ground on which to build it.
While I was contriving for the public good, behold an un-
expected providence of God offered itself to my abundant
satisfaction, it was this : my neighbourhood wanted a
meeting-place upon the king's declaration. Three or
LIBERTY llESTORED. 285
four places were proposed, but none of them were
judged convenient, and my house was now too small.
The people met, but could do nothing. W. Clay pro-
posed to give ground to build on, and stones to build
with. I urged this proposition on the people, and pro-
mised to give £10, towards the building, but they were
not hearty about it. At last having some masons
with me, Jan. 24th, 1688, I went over to J. Priestley
and told him my design, and desired his consent and
counsel ; I said I would build it myself, and not ask
them a penny towards it. The next day I set the men
to get stones, but I met with many discouragements,
which sent me often to a throne of grace. Scarce any
would own me in the work, and some of my friends
thought it a rash undertaking ; but I had the more re-
course to my God. The burden lay heavily on my
wife, who was much discouraged at times. April
213rd, 1688, I laid the foundation stone* at the south-
east corner. The workmen went on apace and it was
ready for use July 8th, when I preached in it on Psal.
cxxxii. 8. There was a vast multitude of people,
more than could crowd into it, though it has three
large wings. Blessed be God, that hath succeeded my
poor endeavours, answered my prayers, and again given
us a token for good." On the day when the new place
was opened, several persons from Warley and else-
where were admitted members of the church. The
building cost Mr. H. about £60 ; and he received but
little help from the j)eople, except that W. Clay gave
the land and stones, and different families erected pews
* It is related of him, that when he laid the first stone he
kneeled down upon it, and spent a whole hour in giving thanks to
God for the liberty now enjoyed and so long desired, and in pray-
ing for the success of present and future endeavours to promote
the cause of Christ.
286' LIFE OF THE llEV. O. II EY WOOD.
for tlieir accommodation ; but on a review of what
God had enabled him to expend in building this sanc-
tuary, he adds, " 1 do not repent it."
This freedom of worship enjoyed by the Noncon^
formists was very precarious, being dependent on the
caprice of a monarch who had no love for them, nor
the protestant cause ; but the affairs of James were
approaching a crisis attended with lasting benefits to
this kingdom. He was carrying things with a high
hand, and the wiser part of the nation foresaw the
ruin of their religion and liberty, if he continued to
reign. I'o the joyful surprise of multitudes, it began
to be rumoured that the Prince of Orange was pre-
paring to invade the land, to secure the Protestants,
and to preserve the liberties of the people. " The
affairs of the nation," says Mr. Heywood, " astonished
every considerate person. King James had tried the
church of England and the Dissenters, but could not
bring either of them to consent to take off the penal
laws and tests from the papists, that they might be
legally admitted to places of authority ; wherefore his
popish council and Jesuits were put on trying new
measures, and what could not be done by fraud must
be effected by force. Soldiers were raised, and many
Scotch and Irish Papists were brought into the king-
dom, and drawn towards London. The guns on the
tower were planted towards the city ; treaties were
made with the French king, to help with an army to
subdue heretics ; all faces gathered blackness, and a
dreadful consternation seized the people. Popish of-
ficers were appointed in the army and navy, and lord-
lieutenants, justices, and mayors were selected, who
either were popishly inclined or were indifferent, but
subject to the king's pleasure. Though the Dissenters
had liberty, we knew it was not out of lo^'e to us, but
l.TBF.P.TV RESTORED. 287
for another purpose. We had heard the king had
said, he was forced to grant liberty for the present to
those whom Iiis soul abhorred. In the midst of these
events, the king on the first of October, issued writs
for choosing a parliament. The day of election came,
and multitudes went to York to choose two knights,
but were prevented from proceeding by the king's call-
ing in the writs, because he had heard the Prince of
Orange was coming against him. Nobody scarcely
believed it, but in the end it proved true. The prayers
of the Lord's people were now awakened to great
solicitude, and earnest cries to heaven, seeing ourselves
in the midst of dangers." James, who was a weak
and superstitious prince, perceiving his cause daily
losing ground, abdicated his throne, which was after-
wards filled by William and Mary. Soon after their
establishment on the throne, the renowned Toleration
Act was passed, and the freedom of religious worship
was secured to the Dissenters by law. Opportunities
of public usefulness were now very numerous, and
cheerfully embraced by Mr. Heywood. Like a wise
husbandman, after a long and dreary winter, he re-
joiced at the return of spring, and laboured to the ut-
most of his power, though near sixty years of age.
In the review of this wonderful year, he mentions with
gratitude, that though his horse had fallen nine times
with him, yet by the goodness of God he had not been
materially hurt, and that he had been supported under
abundant labours,
Mr. Heywood was never able to ascertain his natal
day, but having found the day of his baptism from the
register at Bolton church, he usually observed its re-
turn with peculiar solemnity. On this day it was his
custom to review the labours and remarkable provi-
dences of the past year, and to enter on new engage-
288 I-IFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
ments to be the Lord's. His covenant at the close of
the year 1690, is as follows : " I was greatly helped
in the forenoon to spend some time on my knees, and,
prostrating myself before the Lord, to confess my sins,
supplicate mercy for my soul, my relations, and con-
gregation, for the nation and the church of my God,
and to praise him for his mercy to me a poor worm ;
and now I will transcribe the thoughts of my heart, in
the following meditations and resolutions. May God
Almighty make me sincere, that I may neither dissem-
ble in seeming better than I am, nor act inconsistently
with my profession, by unsuitable practices in the year
ensuing."
" O eternal Majesty ! Sovereign Disposer of all per-
sons and things on the face of the whole earth, who
hast prolonged my life through my sixtieth year, and
hast preserved the composedness of my mind, the
health of my body, and liberty of serving thee : blessed
be thy name. I have passed through the revolutions
of another year, and will, by the assistance of divine
grace, look a little both backwards and forwards, that
my heart may be duly affected and my life suitably
disposed."
** In general. — 1. O my soul, in this lower world
we reckon a succession of time by hours, days, months,
and years, for this is suitable to our present state ; but
the endless duration of eternity knows not such school-
boy's arithmetic, it is all folded in the gross sum of
TO vvv.* O that boundless ocean ! How are my
thoughts lost and senses confounded in the contem-
plation ! The short measures of time we now use, will
presently be insignificant terms. Lord help my heart
to dwell on things future and invisible. Let me not
look on things which are seen and temporal, but on
* An immortal Now.
LIBEllTY KESTORED. 289
things not seen, which are eternal. Nothing is worth
mentioning but the things which concern eternity.
2. How swiftly doth time run on, hours, days, weeks,
and years pass, like a swift river, never to return
again. All things below are upon the wheel of
change, nothing continues in a fixed state. Gene-
rations of men and women enter upon and pass off the
stage of the world apace ; the sun riseth and goeth
down ; the wind changes about continually ; rivers
run into the sea, and from thence vapours ascend and
are emptied on the earth ; yea, the stage itself must
be taken down, and the world, upon which so many
comedies and tragedies have been acted, shall wax old
as a garment, and shall be changed into another form;
but (I think) not annihilated. I expect no constancy
in this inconstant world; it passeth away and the
lust thereof, and therefore shall not be ray centre : I
will fix the anchor of my hope beyond the veil ; the
immutable God shall henceforth be my strength, trea-
sure, refuge, and portion for ever. Farewell, tran-
sitory world ; welcome, a city not made with hands,
eternal in the heavens. 3. Life is short. Every day
and year added to my life is so much taken from it ;
it is a passing shade, a weaver's shuttle, a fiying eagle,
a post, a watch in the night ; we fly away. Plow
soon have these sixty years of my life passed away,
like a tale that is told, as a dream when one awakes.
It is but a short time since I was an infant, then a
school-boy, and now I am one of the older sort ; anon
I shall not be here, my place will know me no more,
my soul must launch into the ocean of eternity, and
ray body be laid in the bed of dust." My life is not
now to be reckoned by years, but by months, days, or
hours, yea, it is as nothing before the Lord. Few
and evil are the days of the years of my life ; it is well
VOL. I. u
290 T.IFE OF THE REV. O. HEY WOOD.
they are few, since tliey are so evil : Lord, suffer me
not to build tabernacles here. 4. Comforts and crosses
do also fly away apace. Day and night are the two
worms that hourly gnaw the root of the tree of life,
and the comforts thereof; yea, sorrows also are as
waters that pass away. I will not be depressed with
troubles, nor exalted with enjoyments, both are short-
lived, and heaven or hell swallows up both. I will
look through clouds and thick mists to a fair day be-
yond, and I will renounce those gleams that will end
in dismal mists of eternal darkness."
" A little more partlcularJij . — 1. If I were as rich
as Croesus, as warlike as Alexander, and as great a
sovereign as Nimrod, and would give all to retrieve
the past year, it could not be. That was a foolish
request of a lady, 'Call time again.' Alas! there is
no lock by which to seize time when he is past ; once
gone, ever gone. Esau found no place of repentance,
for if the door be shut, importunate cries cannot open
it ; there is no retrograde motion out of eternity into
time ; yesterday cannot be recalled ; this morning
cannot be fetched back again. A great person
called out, ' all too late, all too late ; a world of
wealth for an inch of time.' O what would damn-
ed spirits give for a little time in this world ! Lord,
help me to improve opportunities, to redeem time,
to work while it is day, and whatsoever my hand
findeth to do, to do it with all my might. Alas !
man knows not his time. 2. I will look back again
and review the mercies I have enjoyed this last year.
I may say, with David : ' Many, O Lord my God, are
thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy
thoughts which are to us-ward : they cannot be
reckoned up in order unto thee : if I would declare
and speak of them, they are more tlian can be num-
LIBEltTY RESTOIIED. 291
bered.' God's mercies to me have been new every
morning, and renewed every moment, at home and
abroad, on foot and on horseback, alone and in com-
pany, in preventing and privileging, in spiritual things
and in temporal. O, how many sermons have I
preached and heard ! How many days and duties of
prayer have I been employed in ! What helps for my
soul have I had ! How many chapters have I read,
and what influences of the Spirit and rebukes of con-
science have I experienced ! All these are talents ;
and what have I done with them ? An account will
be called for ; and what reckoning can I make ? If I
cannot pass my account with myself, how shall I make
it pass with the righteous Judge ? Lord, help me to
set my accounts straight, and where I am defective,
help me to act faith in Christ's blood for pardon.
3. What sins have I been guilty of this past year ?
Indeed, I may say, with David : ' Innumerable evils
have compassed me about ;' they are more than the
hairs on my head. How many duties have I omitted
or negligently performed ! How many vain thoughts
have lodged within me ; and what idle words have I
uttered ! How many sinful actions have I committed !
* If thou, Lord, shouldst mark iniquity, O Lord, who
shall stand ?' I am cast at the tribunal of justice ;
but I flee to the throne of grace. Are my sins repented
of and pardoned? 4. What good have I done this
last year, by tongue, pen, or property ? Have I been
faithful to God and souls? Has this been (annus
pregnatus) a fruitful year ? or hath it been (annus va-
cuus) a barren year ? Has it been filled up by general
and particular duties, as a Christian and a minister ?
May I not complain as Titus Vespasian, (Amici, diem
perdidi) ' O my friends, I have lost a day ? ' Who
is better for me? It is true, I have been much
u 2
293 I,IFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD,
employed, but liave I been well employed? Lord,
humble nie. 5. AVhat deaths have I heard of this
year, and what funerals have I attended ? Have not
many been laid in the grave that were as likely to
live as I, both old and younp;, rich and poor, stranger
and relative, good and bad ? Many of the same age,
calling, and constitution with myself have gone ; and
why not I ? If God had given death a commission,
my soul had left this body ; and where had I now
been ? either in heaven or hell ; for immediately after
death comes judgment : and what is my present readi-
ness ? 6. What providences have I met with this last
year, cross or comfortable ? What rods of wrath or
cords of love, v/hat sicknesses and recoveries, what losses
and disappointments, what griefs of heart and im-
provement of them ? Hath not this been (annus mi-
serabilis) a woful year, on personal, domestic, and
public accounts ? Yet mayest thou not now set up an
Ebenezer ? What elegies, or songs of triumph hast
thou sung ? What benefits hast thou obtained by all
the divine dispensations ? 7. What is the state of my
said f Am I a child of God or of the devil ; in a
state of nature or grace ? Am I a stranger, or a fel-
low-citizen with the saints ? If I have wandered ano-
ther year, I am farther o\it of the way by one year's
journey. If I be a convert, what progress in holiness,
increase in grace and knowledge, and what communion
with God have I enjoyed ? What clearer evidences of
my state and interest in Christ have I ? What is my
meetness for heaven and preparation for death ? Lord,
humble and pardon thy sinful servant."
" As for the year I have entered on, I do purpose
by the assistance of divine grace, 1. Not to make ac-
count of long life, but become prepared for death.
God forbid I should please myself with the hope of
LIBEllTY llESTORED. 293
living to the end of this year. I will not boast myself
of to-morrow, for who knoAVs what a day may bring
forth? I will not anticipate either my future comforts
or crosses : sufficient to the day is the evil thereof. I
would live every day as if it were my last; for my
times are in God's hand. What a number of sudden
deaths have I seen ! and why may not I be snatched
away in an instant ? O that I could be always ready !
2. I am resolved not to put off what my conscience
tells me : if a duty, to be speedy in the practice of it ;
if a sin, to fall quickly to war against it, and mortify
it. O that I could make haste and not delay to keep
God's righteous judgments ! God forbid, I should,
with Felix, adjourn a conviction to a more convenient
time. If I put off this day, I shall be less fit to-morrow.
Time past has fled away, and the future is not at my
command. O that to-day I could hear and obey his
voice ! 3. I would be daily making new vows and
renewing my covenant with God. As I this day re-
pent of my broken covenant, so I will bring myself
under new obligations to be the Lord's devoted servant
for ever. I have sworn, and would perform, that I
will keep God's righteous judgments : I would vow
and pay, pay and vow again this day. This day
write it down, O my soul, what obligations thou hast
laid on thyself for closer obedience, constant watchful-
ness, and daily intercourse with God. 4. I do further
resolve, in the strength of God, and would take him
with me, not to take my old guilt to a new year ; and
I am loth to take my old frame to new services, for
then I should make bungling work of it. Lord, anoint
my soul with fresh oil ; give me the assistance of thy
Holy Spirit ; quicken me, and I shall own thy name ;
create in me a clean heart ; renew in me a right spirit;
stir up thy grace within me, and bring my soul nearer
to thee. 5. I will make account of troubles and diffi-
294} LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
culties this ensuing year. God forbid, I should please
myself and say, I shall have peace ; and that to-morrow
shall be as this day and much more abundant, I may
have hard work from Satan, the world, bad and good
men, myself, yea, from God. O that my foot may stand
in an even place ! I little know what is before me ;
but whatever it is, if God be with me and for me, who
can be against me ? 6. I have therefore resolved to
put myself into the hand of God, in doing and suffering,
for he is faithful Creator, a merciful Father, a skilful
Physician, a safe Guide : ' Father, into thy hands I
commend my spirit,' and will acknowledge thee in all
iny ways. He will deliver, he doth deliver, he will
guide me by his counsel, and so receive me to glory.
7. Once more, I desire to depart, and to be with
Christ, which is far better than being here. O Lord,
if it be thy will, let this be the last year of my life.
I have travelled long enough on this side the moun-
tain, make haste, my beloved, and be thou like a roe
or a young hart upon the mountains of spices. Come,
and break down this clay wall, and take me to im-
mediate and everlasting communion. O welcome death !
that shall come as a messenger to fetch me to my Fa-
ther's house. What do I here ? or I may say with bless-
ed Calvin, (usque quo, Domine?) 'how long. Lord ? '
Not that I am weary of life, or in love with death,
through any outward calamities tliat have befallen me ?
no, I bless the Lord, I am as free as most men, and I
have as much comfort and content as ever I had in all
my life; but, methinks, I am long kept from my dearest
Lord, and from the blessed society above. I almost envy
the happiness of my dear, former, christian friends,
whom I could name, and with whom I have had sweet
communion in private and public ordinances, who are
now before the throne of God and see his face. God
hath wiped all tears from their faces, whereas my tears
LIBERTY KESTOllED. 295
are wet on my cheeks. Lord, why may not this be
the blessed jubilee of my release ? But, as I pray that
thy name may be glorified, and thy kingdom come, so
also that thy will may be done in me and by me ; by
me here on earth till I reach heaven, by me here on
earth as it is done in heaven ; and if thou hast any
further service for a poor worm in thy church militant,
I am both willing and thankful for it ; only qualify
me for it, fortify me against all opposition, sanctify me
for all dispensations, and give me glorious success in
my poor endeavours for thy church's good ; the longer
I live and labour for thee, the higher the glory and
brighter the crown shall be to,
'• Thy aged servant for ever,
"OLIVER HEYWOOD."
Mr. Hey wood generally enjoyed a good state of
health, and was seldom prevented from attending to his
public duties as a minister by indisposition of body ;
but in the latter part of the year 1691, while visiting
his friends in Lancashire, he found himself indisposed
and returned home on Friday, Sept. 25th. The day
after he went to fulfil an engagement to preach at
Alverthorp, and on the succeeding Wednesday attended
a fast and preached at a neighbour's house, but was not
able to conduct the services of the sanctuary on the
Lord's day. "Oct. 4th, 1691," he says, "I had my
first fit of the ague, besides which I had six others.
They returned every third day, and every one was
worse than the preceding ; the last fit I had was on
the 16th, which stupified me. My spirits were much
affected, and my body much weakened by them. I was
brought so low that many despaired of my life, and it
was reported in many places that I was dead ; but
God showed wonders on the dead, and answered the
296 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. IIEVWOOD.
many and importunate prayers of his people for me.
Many came and prayed with me, and some private
fasts were kept on my behalf. At last God gradually
restored me, so that I preached two Fridays in my own
house, and ventured to preach in my chapel, Nov. 29th,
having been ten Lord's days from the place, eight of
which were on account of my disease. Dec. 10th, we
kept a solemn day of thanksgiving, with about forty
of our christian friends and neighbours. Dec. 14th,
we kept another day of thankfulness with about twenty
young men and women. God made it a good day,
and many mercies were enumerated concerning me."
The state of his mind under this affliction he thus de-
scribes : " I was not afraid of death, nay, I longed for it ;
and when many judged it all over with me, I was
afraid it was too good news to be true, and was loth to
be sent back from the port and harbour into the
tumultuous sea of a wicked world, with a deceitful
heart ; for God had immediately before given me as-
surance of his love, and some foretastes of heaven."
!RIr. Heywood Vv^as mercifully restored from his afflic-
tion of body ; but was soon called to experience a
different trial. Anxious for the spread of the gospel,
he cheerfully encouraged new interests, either by his
personal labours, or by his ejideavours to procure for
them supplies or stated pastors. He had frequently
served the congregations at Pontefract and Alverthorp;
but some of the people put a very wrong construction
on his motives and actions, which occasioned for a
short time no small degree 'of uneasiness to his tender
conscience. The following is his own account of the
affair : " Immediately after my recovery, there came a
letter to me subscribed only by R. J. but I perceive
consented to by others at Alverthorp, charging me
with ruining the congregations at Pontefract and
LIBEllTY llESTORED. 297
Alvertliorp, because of some words I had said to Mr.
Gill when he came to visit me. I was greatly per-
plexed, and my sleep was broken ; not that I was
guilty, but on account of their prejudice. I betook my-
self to my old remedy, and prayed God would let them
see their mistake, humble their hearts, and make us
reconciled. I wrote a letter containing a full answer
to their charges against me ; but mine not arriving,
they wrote again and I sent another. At length six
of them came purposely to me to confess their faults
and mistakes, and wished me to go and preach for
them again. The mistake originated with the young-
man they had invited to come to them, judging, or
rather misjudging, that I had so much interest in the
places, that Mr. S. and Mr. G. could not come with-
out my leave, whereas I gave no occasion for such a
suspicion." As a proof of his cordial forgiveness he
embraced an early opportunity of preaching for them ;
and on his return experienced a gracious deliverance
from danger. " The day before I preached at Alver-
thorp," Mr. H. says, " C. Clark came for me, and we
commended ourselves into God's hands. We came
safely to Wakefield, where I preached that day, and at
Alvertliorp on the Lord's day, at Mr. Naylor's on
Mondaj'-, and at Wakefield again on Tuesday. I knew
not of any company home, and set off at four o'clock.
At the back of the town, when I came to W^estgate
Moor, I struck towards the road ; but in passing over
a ditch which proved deeper than I expected, my horse
threw me before him. With much difl[iculty I got out,
and found I had bit my tongue and bruised my face ;
but was able to get on my horse and ride home. This
was a gracious providence, and I look on it as an
answer to my poor prayers that morning. I was alone
and not in the road, so that if I had been hurt, it might
298 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
have been a long time before I had been found, and I
am very vmwieldy and helpless. J. W. was killed
near Morley by a horse and cart about a fortnight
since. Why was I not brought home dead or lamed ?
Just before, my wife and I had been a journey into
Lancashire, and returned home in peace and safety.
Blessed be our gracious and prayer-hearing God. O
my soul, give God all the glory."
The diligent and disinterested labours of Mr. Hey-
wood were remarkably blessed to the conversion of
souls, and he often records, with gratitude and joy,
many instances of his successful preaching that came
to his knowledge : " My eager and earnest desire for
many years," he says, " hath been carried out for the
conversion of sinners to God, and it hath been some
discouragement of late that I have not heard of such
results as formerly ; but God hath now revived my
languishing hope, which I must solemnly record.
1. J. Rhodes, of Haworth, told me of a man near
Colne, wrought upon by a sermon I preached at
Holmes Chapel, two or three years ago, who is now
very serious. 2. J. Butterworth informed me of a
young man at Liverpool, convinced by a sermon I
preached at Ormskirk three years since, who says, he
never engages in prayer but he prays particularly for
me. He is become eminent, and hath been an instru-
ment of good to some of his relations. S. Lydia Wood
came to me the other day in great trouble of spirit,
and appears very hopeful. 4. Mary Hanson lately
came to me in agony of mind. Her husband told me
some circumstances that gave me grounds to hope well
of her. 5. W. Ramsden's daughter was forbidden by
her father to hear me : but she came once, and God
was pleased to take hold of her heart. 6. Another
young woman hath come to me, weeping much on ac-
LIBERTY RESTORED. 299
count of lier soul. 7. A servant at Rhodes-Hall, who
had been a wicked lad, comes constantly to hear me,
and is much changed, spends much time in reading,
praying, and talking in a religious strain with his
fellow-servants, and is very hopeful. I have also
heard that God hath set the faces of several young-
men among my hearers heaven-wards, and that they
frequently meet in the night for prayer. I was greatly
rejoiced by the good news, and sent on Lord's day to
speak to one of them, desiring he would ask his com-
panions to come to my house the following Wednes-
day. They came Nov. I6th, 1692, about two o'clock,
and continued till seven. God greatly assisted them
in confessing sins, pleading for converting grace, and
in expressing their concern lest they should be mis-
taken in their views of themselves. They pleaded for
the church, for me, and my family, &c. It was time
profitably spent. Much of the presence of God was
enjoyed by these hopeful youths, with whom I never
before joined in prayer except with one. Six of them
engaged, and prayed experimentally and feelingly ; I
was amazed at their gifts. Many of them are the
children of carnal parents. They blessed God for my
recovery and labours, and that they had ever seen my
face and heard my voice. I concluded the meeting, and
was about an hour in prayer. Such feelings of grati-
^tude I have seldom had with other persons. Blessed
be free grace for this abundant answer of prayer."
When Mr. Heywood entered the 65th year of his
age, he still continued his itinerant labours as he had
opportunities, besides his stated services at home. In
a journey to York, during the summer of 1693, he
says : *' I visited and prayed with Mr. Sharp, and bap-
tized five children for him at Leeds. On Friday, I
preached the lecture in the new meeting place, at
300 LIFE OF THE liEY. O. HEYWOOl).
York, for Mr. Coltoii ; travelled to Bell-Hall, and
discoursed with Lady Ilewley, and prayed for her and
her sick family ; preached on the Lord's day at York,
and visited my friends ; met Lord Wharton at
Healaugh, gave him a catalogue of 160 bibles and
catechisms distributed by me ; procured 50 bibles
and catechisms for friends ; obtained £5. for J. Hey-
wood, £3. for our* school, and £lO. for Bramham.
' I prayed four times vi^itli Lord Wharton, f and re-
turned safely home, though late, Aug. 24th."
** ]Mr. H. was at this time engaged in the erection of a school
in his neighbourhood, to which he subscribed liberally himself,
and obtained the benevolent contributions of others, which he
recoi'ds: " ]Mr. J. H. who owns Northowram-Green, was willing
to give ground, ten yards square, and stones for the building.
Wm. Clay, R. Ramsden, J. Baxter, and I undertook the affair :
J. Baxter was to overlook the work. I gave £5. at first, and
procured £7- towards building it ; but we are not certain what it
will cost. It was finished ; and iMr. David Hartley, born at Hali-
fax, and educated at Oxford, came to teach school, Dec. 5th, 1693.
I prevailed with Lord Wharton to maintain six poor scholars at
this school."
t " Philip, Lord Wharton, was a puritan nobleman of consider-
able note. He was one of the lay members of the Westminster
Assembly, and took a most active part in supporting the Parlia-
ment against the King, for which service he was created an Earl
by the House. He was appointed, with several others, resident
Commissioner at Edinburgh, to attend the Scotch Parliament.
He was sent to the Tower for challenging the legality of the long
Parliament of Charles II. After this he travelled abroad, taking
Mr. HoAve with him. He seems to have been a decided Noncon-
formist, and his house was a refuge for Nonconformist Ministers
in time of persecution. While attendinc;- Dr. Blanton's Meeting
at one time, the place was beset and his name taken down. The
place was fined £40. and the Minister £20. which his Lordship
paid. Mr. Locke describes him, as ' an old, expert parliament
man, of eminent piety and abilities, and a great friend to the Pro-
testant religion, and interest of England.' In a postscript to a
letter which Dr. Owen wrote from his house to the church, in
Berry-Street, when he Avas ill, he thus expresses himself concern-
IJBEllTY RESTOEED. 301
His covenant at tlie close of this year is as follows :
"0 my dear Lord, I have, by thy wonderful hand of
providence, passed another year in mercy, and though
a vile cumber-ground, spent one week in another
year, by the interposing kindness of my all-sufficient
Mediator. I do now prostrate myself at thy Majesty's
footstool, giving thee most hearty thanks, setting up
my Ebenezer, and saying, with thy servant David :
' Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that
thou hast brought me hitherto ?' Thy kindness hatli
counteracted my demerits and fears, and surmounted
my hopes and expectations. There is scarcely such
an instance of divine benignity under the heavens !
Thou hast regarded me according to the estate of a
man of high degree, O Lord God ! Thou hast made
me a member of, yea, a minister in, thy church ; an
office more fit for a prince than a peasant, an angel
than a mortal man. Thou hast found me out employ-
ment public and private, at home and abroad ; thou
hast given me the esteem and affection of thy people ;
hast crowned my labours with abundant success ; hast
favoured me with many visits from heaven, maintained
ing the family : ' I humbly desire you would in your pi'ayers re-
member the family where I am, from whom I have received aud
do receive great christian kindness. I may say, as the Apostle of
Onesiphorus, The Lord grant to them that they may find mercy
of the Lord in that day : for they have often refreshed me in my
great distress. The Countess of Wharton appears to have been a
very excellent woman, and from the language of ]\Ir. Howe, in
the Dedication of his " Thoughtfulness for the Future," she was
decidedly a Nonconformist, if not a member of his church. He
speaks of her Ladyship having been called to serve the christian
interest in a family wherein it had long flourished, and which it
had dignified beyond all the splendour that antiquity and secular
greatness could confer upon it." — Orme's Life of Owen, p. 375 — 6.
Lord Wharton died at Hampstead, Feb. 5th, 1696, aged 82, and
was buried at Wooburn — 0. Hej/wood's MS.
302 LIFE OF THE EEV. O. HEYWOOD.
my lot, and continued me in this neighbourhood, in
some measure of faithfulness, against all opposition,
these forty-four years. Thou hast even spoken well
of thy servant's house for a great while to come ; for
thou hast given me two hopeful sons, (the third is, I
hope, in heaven,) whom I have given back to thee in
the ministry. My eldest son hath this last year found
a wife, a prudent companion, and thereby obtained
favour from the Lord. Thou hast called my son to
pastoral employment in Pontefract, given him a heart
concerned for the good of precious souls : and who can
tell what spiritual children he may have in the gospel?
Many prayers are on the file in heaven for him : and
what can thy servant speak more unto thee, for the
honour of thy servant ? My outward comforts are
not inconsiderable : thou hast given me Agur's lot,
neither poverty nor riches, but food convenient for
me. Thou hast rather increased than diminished my
estate this year : and thou, O my God, hast told thy
servant, that 'thou wilt build him a house, therefore
thy servant hath prayed unto thee.' O my dear Lord,
the everlasting, covenant-keeping, and prayer-hearing
God, I am thy worthless servant, the minister of my
Father's house, and that the least in our English
Israel. Thou hast taken me, as it were, from the
sheepcote, though very deficient in capacity, and one
of the darkest sinners amongst the sons of men, as un-
likely a being as any to be brought into the bond of
thy covenant ; yet such is thy transcendant and con-
descending love, that thou hast been with me whither-
soever I have walked, and hast made me a name like
the name of the great, at least of the good men that
are in the earth. I have in my days passed through
straits and abundance, liberty and imprisonments, com-
forts and crosses, honour and dishonour, evil and good
LIUERTY RESTOEED. 303
report, as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; my journey
to the heavenly Canaan hath been up hill and down,
and hitherto my days, like a sea-faring man's, have
been sometimes lifted up to heaven, and presently cast
down into the deep abyss. Well, be it so : God is still
the same and changeth not, therefore I have not been
consumed. Whatever instability or disorders there
are in my house or heart, I am persuaded the cove-
nant of grace is ordered in all things and sure, and
there is all my salvation and all my desire, though he
make it not to grow. Thou, O Lord, art my rock on
whom I repose : thou hast received great sinners,
propped up weak saints, comforted grieved spirits, re-
lieved and released tempted souls ; I can set my pro-
hatum est to all thy sovereign receipts. I have found
a believing prayer to be as a merchant's ship to fetch
good commodities from a far country, a private key to
unlock the treasures of heaven, a channel to convey
divine influences. Sometimes guilt has set a lock on
my lips, and hardness has stupified my heart, and
deadness has benumbed my conscience and affections.
I have been so troubled that I could not speak, and so
overwhelmed as not to express the agonies of my heart;
but presently the tide has been turned, and the Holy
Spirit has given free vent to my troubled thoughts ;
then a torrent of affections has flowed and my heart
has gone out to God, because God has come into my
soul. He is a free agent, like the wind that comes
and goes where and when it listeth. Blessed be God
that my spiritual state and eternal happiness depend
not on the mutable ebullitions of my heart, or variable-
ness of my sensations ; but on his eternal thoughts of
love to sinners, Christ's death, and the infallible promises
of his blessed covenant ; there I repose and venture
my immortal soul ; and though my comforts may ebb
304 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
and flow, yet free grace, Christ's merits, and the Spirit's
needful influences are the support of
" Thy devoted servant,
"O H."
At the close of the next year of his life, he thus
writes : " March 15th, 1695. This morning I set my-
self to spend some time in prayer, being sixty-five years
from the day whereon I was baptized. I began with
reading my regular chapter, which was 1 Cor. iii.
About seven o'clock proceeded to confess the sins of my
nature, heart and life, in the course of my pilgrimage,
for about one hour, and came down to family duty.
Went uj) again, read Isa. xl, and then pleaded with
God for my own soul about an hour ; God greatly as-
sisted me. Then I read a chapter, began pleading
with God for the nation and my congregation, but was
straitened and discouraged ; I rose from my knees,
considered a little, and had thoughts of desisting, but
resolved to try once more. I read Ps. cxv, resolved on
the duty of thankfulness ; and O what a field of mat-
ter, what floods of tears, and what meltings of heart
had I for an hour ! Blessed be God for that little cor-
ner of heaven ; I must write it down, and set a star
upon it as one of the days of heaven, an anticipation of
that glory I am hastening to and am not far from."
" My dear parents presented me to the Lord in the
ordinance of baptism, devoted me then, and therein
doubtless prayed for me ; and afterwards afforded me
a pious and liberal education. Yet little did they think
that I should live above sixty years, to see such changes
in civil and ecclesiastical affairs as I have done since
1640: the bishops in power, then down, and then
up again. Little did they think that I should be a
public preacher above forty-four years, have such a
LIBERTY IIESTOIIED. 305
measure of health, liberty, and opportunities more
than most of my brethren, with some good success and
fruit of my poor labours; — that I should print so many
books, enjoy so many comforts of life, bring up two
sons to be ministers, build a chapel, help so many poor
ministers and Christians in their necessities by myself
and others, and yet have a competency for myself and
family ! Nothing was more improbable than these
things ; which, without adding more, I record not for
ostentation, but to set off the riches of grace, and
that I and my posterity in future ages may learn to
trust God and glorify his all-sufficiency. O my soul,
reflect upon thyself. Thy life has been a life of won-
ders, and the life of nature hath been attended by a
better life of grace. O the lively influences of grace
I have enjoyed ! Many a sweet hour hath my soul
had with God ; this hath been the seasoning of my
life. I could not have lived nor carried on without
God ; this is the antidote against the poison of sin, the
pledge and presage of a better life to come. My dear
Lord hath not only put me into a posture for enjoying
his presence hereafter, but made me instrumental in
diffusing spiritual life among others. Blessed be his
holy name ! Who knows but my own sons, and others
whom I have been instrumental in introducing into
the ministry, may be the means of converting others ?
This, this is better to me than crowns and kingdoms,
or thousands a-year. My soul praise the Lord, speak
well of him, act more vigorously for him, keep close to
him, live always as in his sight, long to be with him,
and make thyself ready for his immediate presence."
In the year 1696, Mr. Hey wood paid his last visit
to his native county. His advanced age rendered
him unfit for travelling much abroad ; but he had a
strong inducement to undertake this journey, princi-
VOL. I. X
306 LIFE OF THK REV. O. HEYWOOD.
pally to testify his afiectionate regard to the memory
of his sister Esther Whitehead,* who had lately died,
and requested him to preach on a given text at Bolton.
" I designed a journey into Lancashire this summer,"
he says, " on account of some worldly business with
my tenants, but chiefly to preach my sister Esther's
funeral sermon at Bolton, on a text she left as a blessed
legacy, Isa. xliv. 22. I was solicitous about that jour-
ney, and prayed to God to direct and protect me. At
last I resolved, and cousin J. Heywood came for me,
with whom I set out, June 1st,, and returned with Jas.
Lomax, f June 12th. In that journey I preached se-
ven times, at Eccles, INIanchester, Bolton, Cockey-moor,
Rochdale, and Sowerby ; baptized two children, and
administered the Lord's supper at Bolton to near 500
persons, I judge. I was fatigued, but the Lord
brought me safely home. I found peace and safety in
every step of my way, assistance in my work, and suc-
cess in my undertakings, namely, in relieving several
necessitous poor, reconciling differences, and conversing
with friends. O for the fruit of my labours in my na-
tive county ! I have seen some gracious answers of
prayer, and remarkable passages of providence in the
review. Blessed be my good God."
Soon after his return from Lancashire, he resolved
* She was about two j'ears older than her brother Oliver^ and
was married to William Whitehead in 1648, who was born in
Craven, and brought up at Halifax. " He was a man of singular
endowments, much reading, gravity, holiness, usefulness, a non-
such of his kind in the country both for gi'ace and natural abilities,
(rod removed him by a few days' sickness, Nov. 15, 1661." — O.
Heywood's MS. He was buried in Bolton church-yard.
t James Lomax married Esther the younger daughter of John
Heywood, Oliver's oldest brother. They lived on part of the
family estate in Little Lever, which is still occupied by their de-
scendants.
LIBEllTY PtESTOBED. 307
to visit his friends at York and in the neighbourhood,
before the close of the summer. The following is the
account he gives of his journey: " Aug. 25, I696, I
set out for York, having put myself into the hand of
God, visited many friends, and lodged at my old quar-
ters. I preached the lecture at York on Friday, spent
the Lord's day at Bell-Hall with Lady Hewley, which
was providentially ordered, Mr. K. assisting Dr. Colton
at York that day. Met with Mr. Taylor and his com-
pany, and travelled with them to Ferry-bridge, which
gave me opportunity to discourse w^ith Mr. White rela-
tive to various matters of moment, he being one of my
Lord Wharton's executors. I lodged at Fontefract,
and saw my daughter and grandchild, and got safely
home a day sooner than I expected, and found all well:
praised be God."
The ministerial character, abilities, and usefulness
of Mr. Heywood, caused him to be respected wherever
known. Public worship among the Dissenters being
now protected by the laws of the land, many dissenting
places were erected about this time, and the people
wishing to obtain settled pastors, and there not being
a sufficient supply of young ministers to answer the
numerous demands, some of the congregations in large
and populous towns were under the necessity of ap-
plying to those who had been labouring in obscure
parts of the country. Mr. Heywood, being v/ell knov/n
amongst the Dissenters by his publications and preach-
ing, received several invitations this year to other places.
The congregation at Little St. Helen's,* in London,
* Dr. Annesley collected a congregation here, upon king Char-
les's indulgence in 1672. In this place, the first public ordination
amongst the Dissenters Avas held June 22, 1694. The service was
conducted with great solemnity, and continued from ten o'clock
in the morning till six in the evening. Dr. Annesley was promised
considerable preferment in the establishment, if he would conform,
X 2
308 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOl).
lately under the pastoral care of Dr. Ainiesley, were
anxious to have him as their pastor, but he iipmediately
gave them a denial. He also received invitations to
labour at Halifax and Manchester, both which he re-
fused. In his review of this year he says : " March
15th, 1697, my baptismal day, I resolved to spend the
forenoon in secret in my chamber with God, &c. After
dinner I returned to my study, and made some reflections
on what had past the former year. Much delightful ex-
perience I have had of communion with God in my
chamber, and many remarkable providences about my-
self and small family, at home and abroad. God hath
given me abundant supplies in worldly concerns this
year, though many have been brought to poverty by
decay of trade, scarcity of money, and bankruptcies ;
yet I have rather laid up than run into debt : blessed
be God. I have had more invitations to considerable
places this year than before. At Halifax, where the
people have built a large meeting place, and fixed on
Mr. Priestley to supply every other sabbath, Mr.
Priestley and some others spoke to me, wishing me to
supply the vacant sabbath. I preached the first ser-
mon in it, Nov. 11th, but dared not promise to go
constantly, however I told them I would help occa-
sionally, which I have done, and got supplies for
Northowram. Oct. 14th, two men came from Man-
chester to persuade me to accept an invitation to the
place where Mr. Newcome had preached. I put them
off at that time, but they wrote to me repeatedly : at
last I told them I was resolved to stay where I was."
" Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my father's
but he was so convinced of his duty to act as a Noncoiiformist
minister, that he resisted all the temptations offered him. He
laboured much and successfully in the Lord's vineyard for fifty-
five years, and died in the 77th year of his age, Dec. 31, 1G90.
LIBERTY IIESTOIIED. 309
house that thou hast brought me hitherto ? I have
continued sixty-seven years in the world, and forty-six
in this neighbourhood, preaching publicly and privately.
My old hearers are more unwilling to part with me
than ever. Some of them are sensible the salary is but
small, that I maintain considerable hospitality, and
that several are now gone from us to Halifax. Some
of my friends enlarged their contributions without my
asking, for I never stood upon terms with them ; I
told them, whether they gave me any thing or nothing
I was resolved to stay with them, and would draw my
last breath amongst them, for the following reasons :
1. This was the first and only place I have been
settled in. 2. Many of my people have adhered to me
in difficult times and in my imprisonment. 3. God
hath given me many seals, as children born to him in
this place, whom I dare not leave. 4. I cannot but
foresee the sad consequences of my leaving them, for
none would serve them at the rate I have done. 5
God hath given me a house of my own, and I have
been at charges to build a chapel, and let the peojile
have the use of it gratis. 6. I have something of my
own yearly coming in for necessary supplies, and I
desire not riches since my family is small, and my sons
are educated. 7. I have many christian friends in the
country whom I visit, and to whom I preach, who are
kind to me, and I have some indigent places for which
I procure supplies ; I think if my own people would
let me go others would not. And, alas, how long
have I to live ? What a bad example it would be to
others, and what reproach would it raise against us,
that we are covetous and would move for more in-
come, and I cannot expect that either Manchester or
London would be heaven? I might meet with troubles
there and then call in question my call to^ remove.
310 LITE OF THE llEV. (). HEVWOOD.
Besides, it is ill transplanting a tree that thrives well
in the soil, as my father Angier wrote to me about
my going to Preston. He also quoted, ' When I sent
you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any
thing? And they said, nothing.' I cannot say, I
have wanted conveniences ; nay, God hath abundantly
blessed me in this place, and I have seen the sad effects
of persons removing to greater places. I am sure my
gifts are more adapted to a poor village than to a
great town or city ; I have a numerous assembly con-
stantly, and a society to which I administer all ordi-
nances, as many as I am able to overlook ; and I think
my genius and constitution are more adapted to a
country than a city life."
" The Eternal Jehovah, one God in three persons,
whom I have chosen as my chief good, and have many
times in the uprightness of my heart given myself
unto, hath this year loaded me with mercies, as many
as I am able to bear. God hath given me temporals.
1. A pious, prudent, careful, good-natured wife, who
is exceedingly tender of me, almost to excess, with
whom I have lived very peaceably almost thirty years.
2. God hath given us our health in a great measure,
though we have both been under the sentence of death
for a short season. We are free from any lingering
distempers by which many are sorely afflicted. 3. God
hath kept death out of our family thirty-six years.
My dear wife, Elizabeth, died at her reverend father
Angler's, 1661, and since that time, we have had a
continuance of the same number, with the addition of
my present wife. 4. I have two sons who are a very
great comfort to me, and who have expressed their
care of me beyond comparison, both when absent and
present, when sick and well : and as my wife is as
affectionate towards them as any mother can be, so
LIBERTY HESTORE1-). 311
are they as kind and dutiful to her as if she were their
own mother. 5. God hath added to our family two
very lovely branches, my son John's wife, a very amia-
ble, and I hope, pious person, whose marriage with
him was very disinterested, as she knew not whether
he would have any thing or nothing, though she had
above £400. to her portion. However, I have since
given him half of my land in Little Lever ; she was
married to him regarding him as a pious minister,
and they live very comfortably together. And God
hath added one more, by giving them the fruit of mar-
riage, a very lovely son, a Timothy, a return of prayer
dedicated to God in baptism, called after Mr. Timothy
Jollie, whom my daughter-in-law owns as her spiritual
father, and he is my son in the faith as Timothy of
old was of Paul's. This young Timothy, my grand-
son, is above a year old, comes on apace,* and I hope
will bear God's name in the world as well as mine in
aftertimes. 6. We have a faithful, laborious, conscien-
tious, and quiet servant, Susannah Tillotson,f whom
• we have had in the family nearly sixteen years ; who
kept house for us carefully that year when I was in
York Castle, indeed she is, as a servant, a non-such,
with whom we have scarcely ever had an angry word ;
however, she never answers again, she is very prudent,
and, I hope, fears God. 7. The habitation in which
I live is my own, purchased twenty-five years since,
in which I have lived comfortablj^, where I commenced
housekeeping when first married, above forty years
* " Timothy Heywood, son of Mr. John Heywood, of Ponte-
fract, died Sept 24th, 1717; he had been married on the 18th of
the same month." — Northowram Register, continued by Mr. Thomas
Dickenson.
t "Susannah Tillotson died May 21st, 1712. Had been a ser-
vant to Mr. and Mrs. Heywood about twenty-six years. Aged
about seventy three."— Nor//zowra7« Register, &c.
312 MFE OF THE llEV. O. IlEYWOOD.
ago, in which my three sons were born, and from which
my own mother ascended to heaven, the only house
I would choose in all the country, a good house with
little land, that I might not be cumbered with worldly
business. 8. God gave me money to build a meeting-
place very near my house, which is a great convenience
for me in my old age, and contains some hundreds of
people every Lord's day. 9. God hath cast my lot
among peaceable, affectionate neighbours, in a village
of about fourteen families, so that no difference hath
fallen out among us, and they all generally come to
my chapel, and are glad apparently of my company.
10. God hath blessed me with a competent estate, and
though I have visibly a smaller income than many,
yet I do experience a secret blessing in what I enjoy,
iso that besides my family expenses and acts of charity,
I do every year lay up something. 11. I have had
great safety at home, as freedom from robbers and un-
reasonable men, and among all my journeys and falls, I
have never broken a bone nor put one out of joint. 12.
I have had daily accommodations, food, raiment, re-
freshing sleep, a fire to sit by, a good chamber to study
in, books to read, my memory, imagination, and the use
of all my limbs. What shall I say more ? Many, O
Lord my God, are the wonderful works which thou
hast done, they cannot be reckoned up in order unto
thee ; if I would declare and speak of them, they are
more than can be numbered. One thing more, as an
outward mercy, which occasioned this meditation, is
the good esteem I have among ministers and Chris-
tians, which is no contemptible mercy. Demetrius
had a good report of all men, and of the truth itself.
God hath honoured me with this, which hath been
variously demonstrated, particularly in the kind invi-
tations I have had from abroad, and the respect I have
LtBEIlTY RESTOUED. 313
at home. God forbid, this should feed an ambitious
desire, yea, it humbles me, I must not however bury
it in the grave of silence, but adore God in it as an
inducement to my doing good,"
" But the best blessings and most precious are my
soul's mercies, which as they are of infinitely more
worth, so they are no fewer. The Father of mercies,
Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, one God, is my God,
who hath in the covenant of grace made himself over
to me, and all his perfections to be employed for my
good. The Father hath given his own and only Son
to lay down his life for me, to reconcile me to God,
who is become my prophet, priest, and king, who
hath called me by his grace, put spiritual life into me
when dead in trespasses and sins, who hath enlight-
ened my mind, convinced my conscience, bowed my
will, renewed and drawn my affections to himself,
given me a heart to believe, repent, and obey his gos-
pel, hath engaged my soul in solemn covenant, con-
quered Satan for me, subdued sin in me, loosened my
heart from the world, and helped me to love and fear
him, to hate sin and abstain from appearances of evil.
It was only free grace that hath divorced me from
vain company and brought me into the society of
Christians from my childhood to this day. O what
delight and satisfaction have I had in the communion
of saints, many of whom have long since landed safe
in heaven. O the blessed private fasts, days of thanks-
giving and conferences I have had ! How sweet have
sabbaths, sermons, and sacraments been to my soul !
Many a time have I sat under the shadow of God with
great delight, and his fruit hath been sweet unto my
taste. He hath cast me down and raised me up by his
Spirit. Many choice refreshments I have had in my
journeys and in God's sacred institutions. But what
314 LIl'E OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
outgoings of soul and incomes of grace have I met
with from God in secret ? My daily communion with
God hath made the happiest seasons of my life. I have
crept to my dear Lord every morning and at other
times, and he hath not been a stranger to me. He
hflth given me tokens of his love, and not disclaimed
my secret groans, sighs and tears. I would not barter
these endearments for all the purchases on earth.
Though it hath not been always so, yet sometimes my
dear Lord hath taken me into his banqueting house,
and his banner over me hath been love. I can truly
say, that God deals familiarly with man. O what mul-
titudes of sins hath my God pardoned ! What numer-
ous prayers hath he answered, what fears dispelled,
and griefs removed, yea, my God hath performed all
things for me. These last years I have been loaded
with mercies in my private and personal capacity as a
Christian, and in my public work as a minister. I
can look no way but mercies surround me beyond my
arithmetic. What shall I render to the Lord for all
his benefits towards me ? I will pay my vows , unto
the Lord now, in the presence of all his people, and
make new vows."
In the review of the year 1698, he thus expresses
himself : " Blessed be God who hath brought me
hitherto through a variety of duties, difficulties and
mercies, to enter upon the seventieth year of my life,
the age of man. Whether I shall accomplish this year,
I know not, nor am I much concerned, so that I may
live to God, and finish my course with joy in his service
and to his glory. I said to him this day, when pros-
trate before him, now. Lord, I would welcome my last
breath, that this poor carcass may never rise but be
carried to the grave, if only my soul may ascend to
heaven ; but I have arisen in health, and this breath
LIBERTY llESTOREU. 315
I give to tliee, this body and all its powers and senses
shall be for thy service, this soul and all its faculties
shall be for thy glory. I am here to comply with thy
mind, to be at thy disposal ; service or suffering, this
ensuing year, shall be welcome. Make my heart sound
in thy statutes, search me to the bottom, discover to
me all the deceit and fallacies in my heart. Leave me
not to myself, hold me by my right hand, that my soul
may still follow hard after thee. Give me this year
seals to my ministry, set my soul some steps nearer
heaven, and let me have some further attainments to-
wards perfection. O that I could bring forth still
more fruit in old age to myself and otliers, and in both
to God. Help me to arise and depart, for this is not
my rest, that my soul may aspire more after my ever-
lasting rest above."
The increasing infirmities of old age prevented Mr.
Heywood from going much abroad, so that he could
not enjoy the society of his numerous friends as
formerly; but he was occasionally refreshed by the
company and conversation of those who came to visit
him. He takes particular notice of a visit paid him
by Mr. Timothy Jollie, for whom he entertained the
most cordial affection, not only as a Christian, but as
his son in the gospel. " May 17th, 1700, my wife
and I had been at a private fast, and immediately after
we came home, Mr. Timothy Jollie came to my house,
and brought Mr. Mault, (his scholar,) and his son
Timothy* with him, intending to stay the Lord's day ;
* This Timothy Jollie, son of ]Mr. Timothy Jollie, the tutor at
AtterclifFe, became assistant to IMr. Wadsworth, his father's suc-
cesssor. In 1720, he was invited to London, to assist INIr. Mat-
thew Clarke, at Miles' s-Lane, Cannon- Street. On the death of
Mr. Clarke, he was chosen pastor of that church, in which station
he continued till his death, Aug. 3d, 17^7; figed sixty-five. His
316 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
but iny wife was taken so ill I durst not invite them,
but in the morning she was better. There were many
mercies in this mercy. — He, his pupil, and myself
spent some time in prayer on Saturday forenoon, when
every one of us felt his heart going out after God. —
Mr. Jollie was particularly affected in the duty, when
taking notice of the sermon I preached twenty-six
years ago in Westmoreland, on 2 Tim. iii. 7, from
which he dated his conversion. — He also took special
notice of another sermon I preached while he was at
Mr. Frankland's, on making a spiritual use of all parts
of learning. I had forgotten it, but he remembered it
very distinctly, having been edified thereby. — Mr.
Jollie informed me of a circumstance concerning my
son Eliezer, which I had never heard before, that he
had saved his life at Natland when some of the scholars
went to bathe. Blessed be God for that preventing
mercy. — He preached both parts of the Lord's day in my
meeting-place, on Jer, iii. 22, very feelingly and judi-
ciously ; he prayed very fervently, and gave great
satisfaction to the congregation, which was very large.
He said he had not seen such a numerous assembly in
a country place, nor even in a market town. May
God do good to them. — Our personal converse was
agreeable and savoury, though, alas, not so profitable
as it might and ought to have been ; but he is very
intelligent and observant. — I do perceive that God hath
made him of great use in training up young persons
to the ministry. He has at this time twenty-six
scholars, and forty more, who have been instructed by
him, are employed in that sacred office. Indeed he is
well accomplished for this work, having learning, gifts,
funeral sermon was preached by Dr. David Jennings, from Phil,
i. 23. — See Wilson's History of Dissenting Churches, vol. i.
p. 492^496.
LIBERTY llESTORED. 317
sweet temper, and soundness in the faith ; not drawn
away with the new opinions, very orthodox, and of a
moderate spirit. Blessed ^e God for him. He receives
Mr. Prince's people to commmiion, and some of his
people sit down with Mr. Prince, though he be a
Congregationalist ; he is of a healing and humble spirit.
These are important and signal mercies for which I
have prayed, and cannot but take special notice of, as
an answer to prayer."
In the latter part of this summer his wife and son
John had the sentence of death in them, but God had
mercy on them and on him also, lest he should have
sorrow upon sorrow. " My wife," he mentions, " was
taken ill on the Lord's day, Sept. 22nd. I was afraid
she was seized with a fever which is very much about
in the neighbourhood. She was much weakened by
it, so that she could not go to chapel the next Lord's
day. I was greatly concerned for her ; prayed and
gave her into the Lord's hand, who was pleased to re-
store her, so that the Lord's day after she was at our
l^lace of worship, wrote the sermons, and repeated as
she is wont to do. J. C. lies dead at this time, who
has been ill of the fever only a fortnight. My wife is
above sixty-eight years of age, and he little above forty.
My son Eliezer came and told me my son John was in
a fever. I charged him when he returned the next
day to let me know how he did, but I heard nothing
for several days. I was much concerned, spread his
case before the Lord, and put him into his hands.
On the Lord's day after, two men went about Halifax
and told several persons I was dead ; * the next day
* A similar report had been circulated several months before,
on which he made the following remarks : " Alas, what a lying
world is this ! Some raise a groundless report, others tell it con-
fidently without examining the truth, as in this, so in many other
318 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. IIEYWOOD,
many inquired of our servant, who rectified the mis-
take ; but I was afraid lest my son John was meant,
on which I was much distressed and prayed again for
him. On Friday night a boy brought me a letter
written by himself, signifying his recovery, and that
he had preached the Lord's day before. O what a re-
vival was it to my spirit ! Blessed be God for this sea-
sonable answer of prayer."
"March 12th, 1701," he says, "I staid at home and
set myself solemnly to spend all that forenoon in secret
prayer in my chamber, because my baptismal day
happens on the last day of the week. Accordingly,
after I had performed my usual chamber devotions and
family duty, at nine o'clock I went into my chamber
and began my exercises ; read Psal. li. fell on my
knees, humbled my soul for sin, pleaded for pardon
and grace about an hour, and God graciously helped ;
then 1 read Isaiah Ixiv, prayed for the church
and nation, and God helped; then read Psalm cii.
prayed again for the interest of Christ abroad in
the world, and was assisted ; then I read 1 Timothy,
iv, pleaded for my sons, my congregation, and re-
lations, till twelve o'clock; it was a delightful fore-
noon; blessed be God. O what abundant cause have
I to admire the gracious providence of God to me
cases of greater importance. What cause have I to admire the
good hand of Providence which hath kept me alive thus long,
when I daily hear of others younger than I being snatched
away by death ? O that tliis may quicken and rouse up my spirit
to be more active for God as one raised from the dead, that hence-
forth more good may be done by me than ever, and that it may
appear God had glorious ends in sparing my life more than I yet
see ! Such a report as this, though false, should leave a real
impression on my spirit to mortify my corruptions, wean my
heart from this world, work up my soul to heavenly objects and
to prepare for death — for cue day it will be a true report — he is
dead."
IJBEKTY RESTORED. * 319
this last year on many accounts ! This day, I de-
sire to contemplate the seventy-first year of my life,
longer by far than I expected to live, longer than my
mother, brother, or sisters have lived, or most of my
relations, except my poor father, who lived to be above
eighty years of age. O what have I been doing ?
What doth the Lord spare my life for, from year to
year ? I cannot but wonder that I should be kept
alive, when so many of my age and under have this
year been laid in the silent dust. It hath been a year
of great mortality. This time twelve months I was
taken very ill ; my sons and their wives came much
alarmed to see me, and I was considered in great
danger ; but I am better now than before."
Mrs. Heywood was again visited by severe indisposi-
tion of body this year, so that for a time she was sup-
posed to be near death ; but God graciously restored
her in answer to fervent prayer, after an illness of
about eight weeks. " Sept. 20th, 1701," Mr. H. ob-
serves, " my wife and I being in the house alone, we
spent some time in prayer, and God gave her much en-
largement of heart as formerly : blessed be God. This
is the first time she engaged with me since her sick-
ness. Both my sons came and preached in my chapel
Sept. 24th, and kept it as a day of thanksgiving for
her. It was a good day : blessed be God."
Having surpassed the usual limits of a man's life,
Mr. Heywood was looking forward to the time of his
departure, and longing for its approach, and in the re-
view of the last year of his life he thus expresses him-
self: "I have had multiplied mercies this year. My
life is still prolonged notwithstanding my many in-
firmities, especially my short-breathing, which hath so
increased upon me that I could not walk to my chapel,
but my friends have prdvided me a chair in which two
320 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
men ccivry me ; and when I get into the pulpit am en-
abled to preach audibly. My dear Lord has been with
me all along. My wife had a long and dangerous
fever which kept her ill eight or nine weeks. She
wished to be gone, and desired me not to pray for her
life. I gave her into God's hands and begged her
again in submission to his will. He answered my de-
sire, though she is yet weak and tender, and hath not
been at chapel this February, 1702, but she is very
helpful to me and others, though nearly seventy years
of age. There have been many deaths about us, but
death hath not broken in upon me and mine these forty
years, except a little son of my son Eliezer's which they
called Oliver, about seven days old : blessed be God.
JSut who Mows ivliat this next ijear mmj hring forth"^^
I have a capacity for studying sermons, and writing
much. I sleep, eat my meat well, have a good diges-
tion, and much ease, except fits of coughing which are
soon over : blessed be God."
* This was written only two or three months before his death.
PART VIII.
Mr. Heywood's last Sickness and Death — His Character as a Son
— Husband — Father — Master of a Family — Relative — Friend —
Subject — His Religion — Spirituality of Mind — Spirit of Frayer
— Gratitude to God — Self-Examination — Watchfidness — Humi-
lity — Faith — Liberality — Talents — Simplicity of Maimer — Fer-
vour of Spirit — Conscientiousness — Disinterestedness — Doctrinal
Sentiments — His Views of Church Government — His Diligence
in his Work — The Success of his Ministry.
Real religion appears beautiful in every age and
condition of life, but especially when its possessor is
drawing very near to eternity. The patriarch Jacob
was an illustrious character, but never appeared more
dignified than when he strengthened himself on his
bed, called his children around him, told them what
should befall them in the last days, and declared that
he had waited for the salvation of God. Moses, the
servant of the Lord, never spoke more eloquently in
addressing the tribes of Jacob, than when he was a
hundred and twenty years old, and had received the
command of God to ascend mount Nebo and die there.
When David sat on the throne of Israel, invested with
all the grandeur of his office, he did not appear half
so glorious as when he assembled the princes of his
people in his dying chamber, collected all his remaining
strength, stood up on his feet, gave Solomon and the
princes a solemn charge to build the house of the Lord,
and concluded the interesting scene by blessing the glo-
rious name of Jehovah, and praying that the whole earth
VOL. I. y
522 LIFE OF THE KEY. O. HEYWOOD.
might be filled witli liis glory. We have traced, with
some degree of minuteness, the eventful course which
the subject of this memoir thought it his duty to pur-
sue, and not a little of the power of religion as dis-
played in the active, holy, and devoted life of O. Hey-
wood, may be learnt from the preceding pages, and it
remains for us to observe its influence on the closing
scene of his life.
^Vhen Mr. Heywood was unable to bear the fatigue
of walking to his chapel, though but a short distance
from his dwelling-house, his people were unwilling to
be deprived of his services, especially as he wished to
continue his ministerial labours to the last, and, when
carried into the ])ulpit in his chair, he was able to con-
duct the services with his accustomed energy. It must
have been peculiarly delightful to see this faithful ser-
vant of the Lord Jesus, whose days had been devoted
to the cause of Christ and the good of souls, spending
his last moments in recommending that gospel to
others which had been his support and consolation
through life. He delivered to others what he had
seen and handled of the word of life, with all the
earnestness of a man on the brink of eternity. He
had no secret fear that he was deceived himself, or
that he was deceiving others, when extolling the glories
of Christ and the wonders of redeeming grace ; but
living and dying he was " not ashamed of the gospel
of Christ," knowing that it was "the power of God
unto salvation to every one that believeth." The sub-
ject on which he discoursed several Lord's days, imme-
diately preceding his dissolution, M^as in accordance with
the solemn event : " Nevertheless, the foundation of
God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord know-
eth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth
the name of Christ depart from iniquity," 2 Tim. ii.
DEATH AND ClIARACTEE. 323
19. He was spared to complete a course of sermons
on this text, and with it he closed his public ministrj^
the Lord's day but one before liis death. No parti-
culars of his death are preserved, except that he died
in peace. May 4th, 1702, in the seventy-third year of
his age, and fifty-second of his stated ministry. In
the absence of other information, the concluding part
of his diary, which he continued till within five
days of his death, may be acceptable. "April 26th,
Lord's day. In the morning I was little fit for the
work of the day; yet made a venture. Read Job xiv;
did pray, but was short ; preached on 2 Tim. ii. 19-
Finished that text. Some came in at night. I was
very weary. 27th. Morning, I was ill, and had much
ado to get into my chamber.* Came down, and kept
down all day ; began to write, but was not able. Mr.
B. came and went to prayer with me. Was something
better in the afternoon. 28th. | I was not able to go
up into my chamber, but prayed below. Was a little
assisted in the afternoon to pray in my parlour.
29th. Morning, I had help to get up, and my wife left
me for prayer in the parlour. We went to family
prayer. God helped. I had many visitors, and W.
Clay came and went to prayer with me. Young J. P.
came ; his father went to prayer with me." This was
written on Wednesday, and he died on the Monday
following. It is generally supposed he was interred in
his mother's grave, on the south side of Halifax church,
called Holdsworth's chapel ; but though no stone
points out the place of his interment, and no monu-
ment records his name and excellencies, yet his me-
mory is still revered in the neighbourhood where he
* Chamber, was a term by which he frequently meant hi$
study.
t His Will bears date this day.
Y 2 •
324 LIFE OF THE llEA'. O. HEYWOOD.
was born, and in the places where he dispensed the
word of life ; and his record is on high.*
The chief end of biography is to instruct and im-
prove mankind. On this account the history of per-
sons, who by their natural or acquired abilities, have
arisen so far above the common standard, that they
have attracted the general gaze, as if belonging to a
superior order of beings, or who by birth or accident
have been exalted to stations which very few can ex-
pect to occupy, is not so calculated to be productive of
benefit as that of individuals who have moved in a sphere
of life more resembling the ordinary circumstances of
men. It is true that there are some incidents in the
life of Mr. Heywood, and in the history of the times
in which he lived that have contributed to his celebrity;
but in the preceding narrative, which contains much of
his own language, we have become acquainted with
him as a man of like passions with ourselves. He has
told us of his dangers, and trials, and labours as an
ejected minister, and he has also made us familiar with
his conduct and feelings as a man, and a Christian.
He has often introduced himself as occupying the rela-
tions and engaged in duties common to ourselves ; and
that we may the better estimate his worth, and be ex-
cited to imitate his excellencies, we shall endeavour to
* Mr. Heywood was succeeded at Northowram, a few months
after his death, by the Rev. Thomas Dickenson, who was ordained
at Gorton Chapel, in Lancashire, May 24, 1694, and continued
there till his removal to A^orthowram, in 1702. He died Dec. 2(5,
1743, haying been minister at Northowram upwards of forty-one
years. He is said to have been " an eminent, useful, and faithful
minister of God's word ; a meek and humble Christian ; an affec-
tionate, tender parent ; a kind husband ; a sincere friend ; a social
neighbour ; a cheerful companion ; very temperate ; had an un-
common memory ; lived well ; and died looking for the mercy of
our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life." — Northowram MS. Re^
g'lstcr.
DEATH AND CHARACTER. 325
describe his Character. To give a full length por-
trait, and a striking likeness of this distinguished man
of God, would require a personal knowledge of the in-
dividual, and the hand of a skilful artist, neither of
which the writer of these pages can pretend to claim.
Nothing more must be expected than the faint out-
lines of an imperfect sketch, filled up by a few quo-
tations.
As a Son, he appears an illustrious example of duti-
ful affection. It was his happiness to have parents who
cared for his soul as well as his body, and their en-
deavours being crowned with the divine blessing, he
considered himself as laid under a double obligation to
love and obey them. As long as he lived he enter-
tained sentiments of cordial esteem for their memory,
and he never mentioned them but in the language of
kindness. When his father was in difficult circum-
stances he travelled many miles, and cheerfully relin-
quished a part of his own right to satisfy the claims
of creditors and preserve his father's reputation. His
pious mother was very dear to him. He considered it a
great honour that she took her leave of the world
when on a visit at his house. In the account of her
life he leaves this memorial of her piety and his affec-
tion : " I owe much to her as the instrument under
God of that saving good I at first received ; and I hope
/ shall never forget the instructions of a mother T
It might naturally be expected that he, who was so
affectionate as a son, was not less so as a Husband.
His affection for Miss Angier, having originated in the
purest motives, and being fostered by christian prin-
ciples, was ardent and of long continuance. He fre-
quently made mention of her many years after her
decease in the most affectionate manner. In his second
wife he found a suitable companion for himself, and a
326 IJFE OF THE llEV. O. HEVWOOD.
kind mother to his sons. Her temporal and spiritual
welfare he endeavoured to promote by every possible
means. If any little unpleasant circumstance trans-
pired, and such there will occasionally be in domestic
life, his custom was to flee to a throne of grace. On
one such occasion he remarks : " This is my old remedy
and it never fails."
When he became a leather he showed himself feel-
ingly alive to the best interests of his children. He
dedicated them to God in infancy, not only in the
solemn rite of baptism, but by earnest and importunate
prayer, and afterwards by frequent and solemn cove-
nant engagements. On the birth of his first-born he
thus expresses himself; "I desire not great things for
him in the world, but good things for his soul, in order
to another and a better world." As his children ad-
vanced in life, so, if possible, he increased in holy
anxiety for their welfare. Aware of the many temp-
tations to which they were exposed, he watched over
them with godly jealousy, encouraging every hopeful
appearance of grace, and strenuously opposing their
propensities to evil. Many a sleepless night did he
spend on their account when absent from him. On one
occasion when he had heard an unfavourable report of
one of them, he says: "I could not sleep one wink
that night ; but in the morning God melted my heart,
and gave me some relief. I wrote letter upon letter,
not knowing where he was, and fearing further snares
and temptations which added new vigour to my repeated
prayers." At length he received a letter from his son,
by which his heart was much comforted. On another
and different occasion lie thus describes his feelings :
** Many a time I have poured out my soul to the Lord
for my two sons, that God M^ould grant them special
grace and ministerial gifts, and make use of them.
DEATH AND CIIAllACTER. 327
God hath gone a considerable way in answering these
prayers. I hope he hath given them a principle of
saving grace, "and employed them in families and con-
gregations where their labours have been acceptable.
Blessed be God for mercies thus far." His affectionate
concern for his sons did not consist in mere expressions,
but was evident throughout the whole of his conduct
towards them, and he had the pleasure of seeing them
comfortably settled in life, and usefully employed in
the church.
As the Master ofafam'dij, he was very zealous in
maintaining family religion. Besides the stated wor-
ship of God M'ith his household morning and even-
ing, he adopted other means to prove his determina-
tion that he and his house would serve the Lord.*
Every individual in his family was, at family worship
in the evening, expected to give an account of the ser-
mons preached on the Lord's day. Sometimes he de-
voted special seasons for the purpose of family-cove-
nanting, when each person was required in rotation to
engage in the duty of prayer. The following is a de-
scription of the manner in which he conducted these
services: "Oct. 18th, 1672. I resolved to spend some
time in family exercise, as I had preached the week be-
fore from Zech. xii. 12, 'And the land shall mourn,
every family apart.' Accordingly we set ourselves to it.
I spoke something of family covenants to affect our
hearts. My son Eliezer began, and prayed sweetly
* It is greatly to be lamented that family religion is so much
neglected amongst professors of religion in the present day. The
early Nonconformists were eminent for their attention to this im-
portant christian duty, and when properly observed it was crowned
with remarkable success. See a beautiful picture of Family reli-
gion as described in the " Life of Philip Henry, enlarged edition,
by J. B. Williams," page 73 — 86 : and see the blessed effects in
the history of the lives of his children.
328 LIFE OF THE KEY. O. HEYWOOD.
and sensibly though short ; * but John was both
a good while, and prayed to my admiration, pleading
with God, and using such expostulations as I wondered
at with many tears. Then Martha, (the servant)
prayed ; then my wife, and then I concluded. O what
a heart-melting evening was it ! Blessed be God for the
gift and spirit of prayer ; they are worth a world !"
His conduct as a Relative, displayed both natural
and christian affection. When in health he frequently
visited his native county, not only on account of his
civil concerns, but to promote the spiritual welfare of
his relations. Those were very numerous, and during
his visits he was much engaged in praying with them
and preaching to them, that they might be saved. He
often wrote letters to them on religious subjects, and
when he published a book, presented each of his rela-
tives with a copy, f When unable to take so long a
journey, he was not unmindful of his distant relatives,
but dedicated a small Treatise entitled "The Two
Worlds," expressly to them. In the " Author's Epis-
tle to his Relations in Lancashire," he thus addresses
them : " I think no labour nor travel too much, to do
your souls good ; but it is now come to pass that I am
superannuated, and much incapacitated for travelling
into your parts. I have outlived all my brothers and
sisters, and am, within few a days, seventy years of
age, a m.ucli longer time than I exjjected to sojourn in
this weary world, having been under the sentence of
death by renewed fevers four times. How long this
frail life will yet be prolonged I cannot tell. — My dear,
* Eliezer was at this time only fifteen, and John sixteen years
of age.
f The Writer has seen lists of the names of persons to whom Mr.
H. gave copies of Jiis books, when published, and in some instances
they amounted to near a huncked.
DEATH AND CHAllACTEIl. 329
and beloved kindred, I can truly say with the blessed
apostle, ' My heart's desire and prayer to God for you
is, that you may be saved.' You cannot but know-
how many of our ancestors have died in the faith, and
are gone to heaven. They have laid up many prayers
in God's book, and put many tears in his bottle for
their surviving posterity, which will have a resurrec-
tion either for your conversion, or for the aggravation
of your sin and condemnation. Though you had godly
relations and ancestors, yet remember grace is not
hereditary. Many pious parents of whom we read in
scripture, had wicked children. Remember you are
all by nature the children of wrath, and unless you are
born again you cannot see the kingdom of God."
Many had the happiness to call him their Friend.,
and on all occasions he was disposed to show himself
friendly. He made those his chief companions on
earth whose society he hoped to enjoy in the heavenly
world. Next to communion with God he valued the
company and conversation of his christian brethren.
His friendship was of the most valuable nature. If any
of his friends became distressed he was ready to relieve
them according to his ability, or to use his influence
with others on their behalf. If any were afflicted he
made their case known to his Almighty Friend, who
frequently sent remarkable answers to his supplications.
Being a successful pleader at the throne of grace, his ac-
quaintances so much valued his prayers, that sometimes
he was engaged with them three or four days in a week,
in observing days of fasting and prayer on account of
their personal and domestic trials, or keeping days of
thanksgiving for mercies bestowed. Mr. Dawson, his
neighbour and most intimate companion, who had been
ejected from Thornton chapel, often attended with him
in these exercises, and was himself benefited by his
3S0 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
prayers. "Feb. 14th, 1684," Mr. Heywood says, "I
went to visit my dear brother, Mr. Jos. Dawson, whom
I found wonderfully recovered from a dangerous disease,
which it was feared would prove mortal. My heart
had been much affected with fears of losing so useful
an instrument. God had drawn out my heart several
times for him, especially at a solemn fast ; and I was
secretly persuaded from that time he would recover.
I found him so much better this day that he desired
me to praise God for him, which I did ; and O what
endeared meltings of heart did God excite in me for
hearing prayer." If differences arose between friends,
no one was more successful in the heavenly art of
l)eace-making than he, several instances he records,
among which is the following: "Dec. 1st, 1693, I
preached a preparation sermon on Eph. v. 2, ' Walk in
love.' I ordered J. Brooksbank, and A. Lea, two of our
communicants to come to my house, with some other
friends, that if possible we might accommodate their
difference of some years standing. They began stoutly,
and used hard words, but at last were made friends
and appear cordial. It had cost me many thoughts
of heart and earnest prayer." Mr. H. was so highly
esteemed by those that knew him, that many of the
excellent, and some of the honourable of the earth ac-
counted it a privilege to rank him in the list of their
most intimate friends.
His character as a Subject of the British govern-
ment was peaceable, obedient, and loyal. There were
many changes among the governors of this land in his
days ;* but he interfered in politics as little as possible
in the circumstances in which he was placed. His
* The following singular inscription on the tombstone of John
Okey, brother-in-law to Mr. Heywood by his second marriage, in
Bolton churchyard, records some of those changes :— ■
DEATH AND CHARACTER. 331
sentiments were in favour of the Restoration, but he
sanctioned no violent measures against the powers that
governed during the Interregnum. When oppressive
and cruel laws were enforced against the Noncon-
formists by the restored sovereign, he harboured no
revenge, but patiently submitted to the evils inflicted.
Gladly would his enemies have accused him as a rebel
or traitor, if there had been the shadow of pretence ;
but they could not find any occasion against him ex-
cept " concerning the law of his God." When James
abdicated the throne, and William and Mary succeeded,
he rejoiced at the event, as a friend of civil and reli-
gious liberty. Having suffered much for conscience'
sake, he knew how to value the liberty then enjoyed,
and felt gratitude for the privilege. He was very fre-
quent and earnest in his prayers for the preservation
of the king's life, and the peace of the land, and when
either appeared in danger, he observed special seasons
in public or private for imploring the divine protection.
The governing principle of Mr. Heywood's life and
" JOHN OKEY,
" The servant of God, was born in London, 1608, came to this
town in 1629, married Mary the daughter of James Crompton, of
Breightmet, 1635, with whom he lived comfortably twenty years,
and begot four sons and six daughters. Since then he lived sole
till the day of his death. In his time were many great changes,
and terrible alterations. Eigliteen years civil war in England,
besides several dreadful sea-fights — the crown or command of
England changed eight times. Episcopacy laid aside fourteen years.
London burnt by Papists and more stately built again. Germany
wasted 300 miles. 200,000 Protestants murdered by Papists in
Ireland. This town thrice stormed — once taken and phmdered.
He went through many troubles, and divers conditions, found real
joy and happiness only in holiness, the faith, fear, and love of God
in Jesus Christ. He died the 29th of April, 1684, and lycth here
buried,
" Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly.
•' Holiness is man's happiness."
332 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYAVOOD.
conduct, and which constrains us in these remote days
to venerate and love the man we never saw, was his
Religion.
In his religious profession both as a Christian and a
minister, he was eminent for tlie spiritualiiy of his
mind. It could be said of him as of Enoch, "he
walked with God." Such was the influence of his
daily communion with heaven, that common objects in
life were made use of to spiritual purposes. " There
is a circumstance," he observes on one occasion, "which
though but small, hath some influence to help my de-
votion many times, it is this : — The cushion in my
study, on which I kneel at prayer, hath the initials of
my first wife's maiden name, E. A. which I usually
see when going to prayer alone. It much quickens
my heart to consider, not only how much she prayed
alone and is now praising God in heaven, but also her
enlarged prayers for me, still on the file in heaven ; and
also her serious persuading of me to the duty of secret
prayer. It is not to tell how small a thing, if God
give it effect, will stir up great emotions. Even the
crowing of a cock could excite repentance in Peter."
When for greater convenience he changed his place of
study, he would not occupy it till he had first earnestly
prayed for the consecrating presence of God. " Dec.
28th, 1675," he says, " I removed my books and goods
out of my lower study into my new study in the meet-
ing-place chamber, which is more convenient. At
night, after my preaching and conference that day, I
fell on my knees, and God helped me during good part
of an hour to confess my sins in all the other places
I had occupied, and to give him praise for the gracious
visitations I had in my father's house, at Cambridge,
Landimer, Godley, this house, Norwood-green, Coley-
hall, and in my lower study ; all these places I may
DEATH AND CHARACTER. 333
call Peniels, for I have seen God's face in them. I
pleaded with God that I may come with a new heart,
spend more time with him, and feel more of his grace.
It was a sweet, heart-melting evening. O that God
would hear my groans, accept my tears, and be with
me still." These may appear but trifling occurrences
and scarcely deserving notice, but it is in little things
the real character of a man is best discovered, there
being a greater temptation to appear what we are not
when the eyes of men are upon us, than when no one
is acquainted with our thoughts and actions but God
and ourselves. Many similar instances might be se-
lected from his private papers, for the spirituality of
his mind was not like a meteor, which appears only
occasionally and for a short time, but, like the lamp in
the ancient temple — always burning. At particular
times it shone with a greater degree of lustre than at
others, but it was his earnest desire it might always
be brilliant. For this purpose, he drew up, " Rules of
Practice, which," he says, " I desire to charge upon my
own base heart in the course of my life. 1. Be serious,
whether short or long, in all religious exercises. Do
thy best in the best works. Trifle not in any thing,
much less in the duties of religion. 2. Have special
regard to thy thoughts ; and what thou art afraid to
do before men, be afraid to think before God. Study
thy heart most ; and regard that pure eye which dis-
cerns heart-workings. 3. Let thy heart be composed
in all states. Be set aside by nothing. O for a holy
state of soul, that it may be under the power of no-
thing beneath itself! Nothing can be worth the loss
of a quiet spirit. 4. Be catholic both in principle and
practice ; neither confine thy love to a party, nor thy
obedience to one or more duties. Partiality is a mark
of hypocrisy; universality, of sincerity. 5. Be con-
334 LIFE OF THE KEV. O. HEYWOOD,
tent witli witnesses above and within. Do thy best
work invisibly to men. Let duties be done without
outward encouragements, yea, against discouragements.
Be better before God than before men. 6. Let special
corruptions be crossed by peculiar grace and watchful-
ness; and make the best fence where the hedge is lowest.
Bend against thy inclination ; and mortify that sin
which opposetli thy soul's peace and safety. 7. Study
self-denial ; it is the highest and hardest lesson of the
Christian : whatever excellencies thou hast they are
ciphers without this. 8. Conceive of things now as
thou wilt judge of them at death and judgment, or
when trouble and sickness or sad accidents befall thee.
The best way of happiness is not to be anxious about
sublunary things, but to cure thy conceit of them. 9.
Get thy will subdued to God's. Learn to do his will,
or thou wilt not be able to bear it. Bear the yoke of
commands, or thou wilt not be able to bear the yoke
of thy cross. Let nothing displease thee that pleaseth
God, nor any thing please thee that displeaseth him.
10. Pray most for those that hate thee worst, for they
need it most ; and let those coals of love fall on their
heads and hearts. Long for their conversion. God is
the God of vengeance, therefore meddle not with his
prerogative. The injured side is the safer side."
One of the most effectual means by which the
spirituality of his mind v/as preserved, was the fre-
quency of his approaches to the throne of grace. He
was indeed a man of prayer ; like Jacob, " he wept
and made supplication." The public and social duties
of his office, as a minister, did not make him forgetful
of his privilege as a Christian. His study was not
only the place in which he made preparation for the
services of the sanctuary, but his closet in which he
maintained intercourse with his heavenly Father, who
DEATH AXD CHARACTER. 335
seeth in secret. While offering the language of prayer,
he frequently entered into its spirit, and being brought
to the gate of heaven, he was unwilling to leave it to
attend to the concerns of this sinful world ; this may
account for the frequency and length of his secret
devotions.*
He was deeply conscious of his unworthiness of the
least of God's mercies, and therefore received with
much gratitude the many favours he enjoyed, parti-
cularly when sent in answer to prayer. His heart
was not " the grave of forgetfulness, but the altar of
praise." While pursuing his journey to the heavenly
rest he made frequent stoppages, not only to ask for
grace to persevere to the end, but also to raise Eben-
ezers of thanksgiving to that God who had hitherto
helped him. He paid particular attention to the ex-
hortation of the apostle : " By prayer and supplication,
with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known
unto God." He watched for seasonable opportunities,
proper subjects, and answers of prayer, and in a book
recorded what he considered remarkable " Returns of
prayer."! He often regarded the state of the weather,
and mentions several instances of successful pleading
on this behalf. " In the autumn of 1698," he says,
" after a very cold summer there was excessively wet
weather, so that corn did not ripen and people could
not reap, though there was a plentiful crop on the
* It was not an uncommon thing for him to be engaged nearly
an hour in secret devotion. His piece on " Closet Prayer," has
been deservedly esteemed, and has passed through several edi-
tions. It is a subject on which he was well qualified to write, be-
cause it was one he constantly practised.
t From this MS. many extracts have been given in tlie account
of his life. The general nature of the MS. proves he was an
attentive observer of Providence ; what are frequently termed
common mercies, excited in him special notice and thanksgiving.
ti3G I-IFE OF THE KEA'. O. ITEVWOOD.
ground. Corn arose from 24s. to 34s. a load. The
poor bought peas and beans to make bread, the hea-
vens continued to pour down rain, and there was a
great outcry. It pleased God to put it into my heart
to appoint a public fast at the chapel, on Oct. 6th.
1 obtained the help of Mr. J. Bairstow. Many people
came, and God made it a good day so that our hearts
were much drawn out in prayer. He preached on
2 Chron. vii. 14. and I on Matt. vi. 11. It was a
happy day, and the people were much affected. God
made that promise good : ' It shall come to pass that
before they call I will answer.' The day before, it cleared
up and was a pleasant and sun-shiny day, and it hath
continued almost three weeks good harvest weather."
Mr. Heywood often attended to the important work
of self-exammation. This constituted a chief part of
his employment on the return of his baptismal day,
and was carefully observed on the Friday or Saturday
before the sabbath on which he administered the
Lord's supper. Beside these periodical seasons, he
embraced other opportunities of attending to this so-
lemn duty when he felt his mind so disposed ; and
generally he found his reward in his work. " Feb.
29th, 1676," he writes, " I designed to spend some
considerable time by myself in heart searching, hum-
bling my soul, and secret prayer ; but visiting some
sick persons in the afternoon, I was hindered till five
o'clock. Then went to my study, and read Psal. Ixxi,
with which my heart was wonderfully affected. After-
wards I confessed my sins with their aggravations, and
poured out my soul for pardon, in v/hich God wonder-
fully helped me with many tears. I pleaded for the
conversion of souls, and for my children, wherein my
feelings were very strong. While I was pleading for
them in the bitterness of my soul, that scripture came
DEATH AND CIIARACTETl. 337
to my mind in the Psalni I had been reading : ' But I
will hope continually, and yet praise thee more and
more ;' especially the last clause, which supported my
spirit wonderfully. O that it may be verified ! Thus
God helped me above an hour in my wrestling with
him."
By watchfulness over his own spirit he often de-
tected the risings of pride, and mourned over them
when others were not conscious of their activity. The
following quotations illustrate the remark. " Aj^ril
1st, 1672, B. Boys's wife at Halifax, being sick, I was
sent for to visit her. I went after dinner, and having
discoursed and prayed with her, and visited several
friends I returned home. As I came by Halifax Bank-
top, my horse stumbled amongst some rough stones
and fell down ; my leg was under him, but I felt no
hurt : blessed be God ! it was a wonderful preservation.
Afterwards I reflected on what 1 was thinking about
when I fell, and recollected I had been thinking of the
great companies that had come from Halifax to Coley
the day before, and was pleasing myself with imagin-
ing what a great assembly I should have, if God would
grant me liberty in the chapel. Methinks it was a sea-
sonable correction of my pride, it did me good in after
meditation, and gave me occasion to think on Prov.
xvi. 18. Blessed be God for this gracious correction
of my pride and preservation of my body." "Jan.
27th, 1674. My house was paved, and my heart was
too much taken up with the convenience and neatness
of my habitation. I mispent too much time in look-
ing over the workmen, and began to please myself with
worldly accommodations. At night, in family prayer,
I judged myself and confessed my sin. God graciously
enlarged my heart, and enabled me to give up house
and all I have to him ; O what a melting duty it was!,
VOL, I. z
338 LIFE OF THE P.EV. O. HEYWOOD.
My lieart fully re.sio-ned up all I have, if God should
call me to leave it by death, banishment, imprison-
ment, or confiscation. I hope I can truly say, that I
am as willing to part with all for my Lord's sake as I
ever was to receive it. Blessed be God that this temp-
tation ended with a conquest." " Lord's day, August,
1677, I was to preach at Leeds for Mr. Stretton.*
In the morning, at E. Hicksou's, there was a great
number of people, at whicli my heart was puffed up.
In the afternoon, nuiltitudes came to the new meeting-
place, and my spirit was too highly exalted with vain,
popular applause. The 'people said there were more
than had been seen in it since it was built. On Mon-
day, God helped me to compose a letter to Mr. Stretton,
and at a meeting it was subscribed to by the people :
I tliought it well done. I was still more advanced
with high conceits of mj'self when many came to see
me. Several invited me to their houses to dinner, and
on Wednesday, at the lecture, there was a great as-
sembly of various denominations. These things did
too much tickle me with vain-glorious opinions of my-
self, so that I came home on Thursday with over-
weening thoughts. But reflecting on these things the
morning after in my retirement, I fell on my knees
and humbled myself for the pride of my heart ; and
* Mr. Stretton was born at Claybrook, in Leicesterhire, about
1632, and was ejected fi-om Petworth, in Sussex. He became
chaplain to Lord Fairfax, wlio brought him into Yorkshire. Upon
tlie death of his patron, he removed to Leeds, where he exercised
his ministry about seventeen years, and from thence to London,
where he gathered a congregation tliat met for worship in tlie
Haberdashers'-Hall. He had his share in the afflictions of the
Nonconformists, but lived to enjoy the benefit of the Toleration
Act. He died, July 3, 1712. His funeral sermon was preached
by Mr. Henry, from 2 Cor. viii. 16. — See Nonconformists' Memo-
rial, vol. iii. p. 326. — V/ilson's History of Dissenting Charclies,
vol. iii. pp. 1-29—133.
DEATH AND CHARACTER. 339
God debased me in my own eyes. O what a wretch am
I that can be so soon swelled with popular applause !
Lord, pardon me. But for all this admiration, not all
those people at that rich place bestowed so much as a
penny on me, except one woman ; God seeing not ht
that I should have both profit and honour at once, lest
I should be exalted above measure, convincing me
withal, of how little avail vulgar praise is towards ne-
cessary supplies ; but no matter for either, so that good
may be done."
The most spiritual and holy persons are generally
most distinguished for humility. It pleased God to
favour Mr. Hey wood with abundant spiritual enjoy-
ments, so that he could say, " there are few days when
I am at home, but God and my soul meet in secret."
But the nearer and more frequent his approaches were
to the pure and glorious God, the more was he abased
in himself. He was so sensible of the exceeding de-
pravity of the human heart, that he made use of the
most humiliating expressions concerning himself when
addressing God in prayer. * In the renewal of his
* " Clu-istiaiis are often ridiculed for speaking of themselves in
depreciating terms ; especially when they call themselves, the
vilest of the vile, or the chief of sinners. It is admitted and la-
mented that such language may be insufferable cant ; and is
sometimes used by persons, who give ample evidence of their not
believing- it. When show is a substitute for reality, it is generally
excessive. Many fish for praise with the bait of humility, and
say things against themselves in hopes that you will contradict
them ; but we trust you never will. It is otherwise with a real
Christian ; he speaks according to his real views and feelings. He
does not, however, mean that he has been the greatest profligate :
but he knows that sin is to be estimated by its guilt ; not by its
grossness ; and he knows more of himself than he can of others.
He 5an only see the actions of others, and not the greater part
even of them ; but he can look nito his own heart. He knows
not but the sins of others will admit of extenuation ; and he ought
z 2
340 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. IIEYWOOD.
personal covenant, at the close of the year 1698, after
observing that in his acts of charity he generally aimed
at the tenth i)art of his income, he makes the following
remarks : " And now, O my soul, what hast thou to
boast of? Just nothing. Let my sins be set against
my duties, and they will exceed them to an infinite
extent. If I have done any thing that is good, it is
not I, but the grace of God in me. Alas, ' the good
that I would, I do not ; but the evil that I would not,
that I do .' There are abundant defects in my best
duties, and I dare not stand by the holiest of my per-
formances for my justification. It is well if I be found
v/orthy in a gospel sense ; for I have carried a bad
heart with me to all I have done, I have failed both in
the manner and end, and when I have done all, I am
an unprofitable servant. Woe is me ! How much
pride, hardness, deadness, unbelief, security, and dis-
traction cleave to me ! Men see my outward acts, but
none see my inward frames ; men would scarcely be-
lieve what a world of sin lod^eth under a fair show.
It is well if sin hath not dominion over me ; I am
sure it hath great possession of me, and my iniquity
often preponderates over my piety ; I dare not trust
to my own righteousness. Lord, forgive the sins of
my prayers. I must weep over my tears, yet that
w^eeping will make God no compensation. My omis-
sions are more than my performances ; yea, the evil of
my performances is often, I fear, far more than the
good in them. I am cast and condemned if the new
testament Aaron do not bear the iniquity of my holy
things. I depend only on Christ's sacrifice for satis-
faction to justice, and on his intercession for the
to be willing, as far as possible to excuse ; bnt he knows against
what light and advantages his own transgressions have been com-
mitted." — Jay's Short Discourses, vol. iv. p. 290 — 291.
DEATH AND CHARACTER. 341
acceptance of my person and performances ; there I
rest, there I centre my soul. I am nothing, I can do
nothing, and deserve nothing but wrath. If ever God
save me, it is grace, free grace, infinite grace ; I will
crown grace only, coming to me through the merits of
Jesus Christ."
As a believer, he enjoyed the benefit of a steady
and strong faith. When deeply humbled before
God, under a sense of guilt, the enemy of souls was
not permitted to tempt him to unbelief ; but he applied
afresh to the blood of sprinkling. The fulness, free-
ness, and efficacy of the Saviour's merits were subjects
on which he delighted to dwell, and where these are
cordially believed, it is impossible that the soul can
despair. He knew in whom he had believed, and
having committed the important concerns of his soul
to God, and enjoying frequent communion with him,
he was not afraid to trust him also with the manage-
ment of his temporal affairs. Scriptural confidence,
like every other spiritual grace, improves by exercise.
His faith, though often tried, never ultimately failed
him. His outward circumstances, particularly in the
first years of persecution, were sometimes very low,
and when almost destitute and human expectations
proved abortive, God raised up friends and sent him
relief at times and from places the most unlikely.
When common mercies are received, as answers to
believing prayers, they are increased in value almost
beyond calculation. The whole history of Mr. H.
abounds with proofs, that as he attentively observed
the hand of providence, so that providence was not
unmindful of him. Sometimes, when in great dif-
ficulties, his conduct was influenced by the powerful
impressions of his mind : and what an esteemed
preacher says of another venerable servant of Christy
342 I.IIVE OF THE IJEV. O. HE V WOOD.
may with great propriety be applied to the subject of
this nieiiioir : " He was sober-ininded, cautious, and
prudent ; yet it is . certain,, that in some of the most
eventful circumstances of his life, his decision resulted
very much at the tiine from a forcible impulse of
mind, which he could not feel himself at liberty to
resist, and which indeed was fully satisfactory to him-
self. It is equally certain, that in taking these steps,
he had no reason to repent ; but was abundantly con-
vinced by the consequences, that they were of God.
We must not limit the Holy One of Israel, nor yet be
wise above what is written. Common Christians can
hardly understand the peculiar advantages that arise
from exalted spirituality of mind, and the most inti-
mate degree of devotedness to, and communion with,
God."*
Mr. Hey wood soon after his ejectment in 1662, was
much straitened in his worldly circumstances ; but in
the latter part of his life his situation was rendered
comfortable. He did not rise to affluence, but with
what some persons would consider a small income, he
exercised great Uheral'dy. In him was proved the
truth of that scripture : " The liberal deviseth liberal
things, and by liberal things shall he stand." At the
close of the year 1697, he thus wi'ites : " I think I am
put to more charges than any minister. My house
standing near my synagogue, there is scarcely a Lord's
day but I have six, eight, or ten persons at dinner
at my table, besides many others who have bread and
broth. On sacrament days, which are every eight
weeks, we have usually about twenty that eat with
us. Any one would think this course could not be
tolerated. To this I must reply, (which is a wonder
tp myself,) that notwithstanding this and the frequent
* Jay's Life of Winter, page 360.
DEATH AND CHARACTEK. 343
acts of charity I am called to, yet I perceive I grow
richer. It may be said, how can all this be done out
of my small income ? I have some yearly rents
coming in from Lancashire, about £14. a-year. £7.
a-year from Sowerby ; and of late, £7- 15s. from
Holdsworth. Lady Hewley hath usually given me
£5. a-year, and Lord Wharton, £3. Sometimes I
have something given me when I travel abroad,
though old age hath lately cut me oif from that occa-
sional supply. Sometimes I have something for fune-
ral sermons, and other gifts dropping in, sent by the
wise providence of God to encourage my faith. I have
also a notable, prudent, provident wife, who manageth
matters both frugally and handsomely, and makes a
little go a great way ; besides, I spend nothing waste-
fully. But the blessing of God is the main thing
that maketh rich and addeth not sorrow ; this I have
found by abundant experience many years. Some,
who have had five times my income, have been in great
straits. Mrs. Hyde said to my father Angier, surely
God works miracles at your table, for if I were to set
twice as much provision before such a company they
would think they were famished. This is like the
woman's barrel of meal and cruise of oil. Blessed be
God, that though I have not planned and plodded
about worldly matters, yet the Lord hath wonderfully
supplied me. O for a thankful heart and a fruitful
life."
As a minister of the gospel, Mr. Heywood's talents
made him eminent among those " that turn many to
righteousness." He sometimes lamented the weakness
of his natural capacity, and regretted he had not paid
a closer attention in his youthful days to philosophical
pursuits ; " I prize learning," he says, " above all
sublunary excellencies, and I might have been more
344 LIFE OF THE HEV. O. HEYWOOD.
useful had I improved my time better therein." If he
did not excel as a profound mathematician, an acute
reasoner, or a critical linguist, he was a " scribe well
instructed unto the kingdom of heaven ;" and if he
could not be compared to the man who had five talents,
he carefully employed to the glory of God those with
which his Lord had entrusted him. All his attain-
ments were subservient to the "perfecting of the
saints, the work of the ministry, and the edifying of
the body of Christ." In directing the attention of
men to the important concerns of their souls, whether
in the parlour or pulpit, at the sick bed or from the
press, he felt himself at home. Living in the daily
enjoyment of spiritual godliness himself, his preaching
and writings were mostly on experimental and prac-
tical subjects. He was well acquainted with the hu-
man heart, and much of his usefulness proceeded from
his powerful and affectionate addresses to the consciences
of men. He also possessed the happy art of illustrating
divine truths by interesting anecdotes, by which the
attention of his hearers was more excited, and the sub-
jects more deeply imj)ressed on their understanding
and memory.*
* Mr. Job Orton in a letter adcbessecl to the late Mr. Hughes,
of Bury, says : " The life of IMr. Heywood is worth your perusal,
as he seems to have been a very considerable man for his age. —
I could wish 3'ou to borrow of your congregation any books of
their old divines, who lived in Lancashire and the neighbourhood,
which they have in their houses. Some of them are extremely
valuable, as those of Pendlebury, Nath. and Oliver Heywood,
Aired, &c. They were men of distinguished ability, and eminent
piety and zeal. Though some of their sentiments are indefensible,
and their language low and mean, yet there is a savour of piety,
seriousness, and concern for the interests of religion, and so much
experience of human nature, and the workings of the heart, as are
hardly to be met with in any modern compositions. There are
also many little and instructive and striking stories, which may
DEATH A XI) CHARACTEll. 345
His method of preaching partook of the peculiarities
of the age in which he lived, and would not perhaps
be generally acceptable in these days. He delivered
good and wholesome truths in a plain, homely manner.
One peculiar excellence may be observed in his writ-
ings, which contained the substance of what he preached,
namely, a constant aim at simpUcity. He endeavoured
to make himself understood by all whom he addressed,
fully persuaded that a person cannot be benefitted by
what he does not understand. " If his preaching,"
says Dr. Fawcett, " might, by himself, be called talk-
ing, it was talking to the purpose : and such a mode
of preaching is perhaps better suited to the capacities
of a common audience than a more smooth and polished
manner of address, which, though it may please the
ear and gratify the taste of persons of refinement, is
not so well calculated to answer the great end of preach-
ing. A free and familiar address quickens the atten-
tion, arouses the conscience, and comes home to the
heart of the hearers."* He who spake as never man
spake, has given his ministers a perfect model of the
manner of preaching. In his discourses, the most im-
portant and glorious truths are illustrated by natural
objects, and thus brought down in parables to the
capacities of the young and ignorant. The great
apostle to the Gentiles asserts, that he would rather
speak five words with his understanding, that he might
teach others, than ten thousand words in an unknown
tongue. This was also Mr. Heywood's determination,
be well adopted, and would render a discourse in which they are
introduced popular, pleasing, and useful." — Orion's Letters to
Dissenting Ministers, vol. i. page 113, 114.
* Similar observations are to be found in the interesting Life of
Philip Henry, concerning his method of preaching. See his life
enlarged and corrected by J. B. Williams, page 192.
346 I,IFE OF THE llEV. O. UEYWOOD.
and contributed much to the general acceptance and
usefuhiess of his ministry.
In attending to the duties of his office as a minister
of Christ, he manifested great fervour of sjyirii. His
heart was in his work, and therefore he spoke and
acted as a man in earnest. His many and severe per-
secutions would have been to some a strong tempta-
tion to neglect ministerial employment, at least, when
most exposed to dangers ; but having set his hand to
the plough, he could not think of looking back : neces-
sity was laid upon him to preach the gospel, and the
love of Christ constrained him. Tears were often
mingled with his intercessions at the throne of grace,
especially when engaged in social exercises and in sea-
sons of persecution or trial ; and while they showed
how much his own heart was affected, produced a
similar influence on others. When preaching the gos-
pel of the kingdom, he could say, " that which we have
seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may
have fellowship with us ; and truly our fellowship is
with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ." He
felt the vast importance of the work in which he was
ensfaffed, and was convinced that his Master in heaven
would require him to give an account of his stewardship ;
with these impressions he could not but be fervent.
He knew that the everlasting happiness or misery of
the souls of the people depended on their acceptance or
rejection of the gospel, he therefore so studied and
preached as to save himself and those that heard him.
To some, his fervour of spirit may appear bordering
on enthusiasm, but having learnt the value of his own
soul, he thought nothing he could do or suffer too
much to " save a soul from death, and hide a multi-
tude of sins."
His nonconformity was an evidence of his conscieti'
DEATH AND ClIARACTEJl. - 347
iiousness. He was a lover of peace, but would not
sacrifice what appeared to him to be truth for the sake
of outward ease. The temptation to conformity was
very powerful, but it had no prevailing influence on
him. At the time the Act of Uniformity passed, he
observed : " There are carnal advantages enough to
sway to conformity, did not conscience answer all the
pleas of flesh and blood. At present, our work is to
be well satisfied with the ground of our suffering ; the
conditions are two hard to be accepted." Twenty-one
years after his ejectment, he says : " I am so fully
satisfied that my nonconformity as a minister is the
way of God, and I have so much peace in my spirit
that what I do in the main is according to God's word,
that if I knew of all these troubles beforehand and
were to begin again, I would persist in this course to
my dying day." When driven from the public exercise
of his ministry by his ejectment, and prevented attend-
ing public ordinances by his excommunication, he
resolved to preach occasionally in his own house on
the Lord's day, to those of his former hearers who
were willing to attend. He did not, however, form
this resolution without the most serious examination
and prayer, nor until he was persuaded it was the will
of God.
Such was Mr. Heywood's disinterestedness, that the
prospect of suffering or fatigue never diverted him
from the path of duty. Though his income from
the people among whom he laboured was very small,
and he was the means of obtaining pecuniary relief for
some of his poor brethren, he sought none for himself.
After giving an account of various sums he had re-
ceived from Lord Wharton's executors, to distribute
among different ministers in his neighbourhood or of
his acquaintance, he remarks : " All this, and much
348 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
more is given to other ministers, but nothing to my-
self ; and, indeed, it is not because I have been denied,
but because I have not asked any thing, yet I am apt
to think that there are scarce any of them but receive
more from their people than I do." When he was
invited to large and opulent congregations he resolved
to spend the remainder of his days in the neighbour-
hood where he had so long laboured with success.
Whenever an opportunity of preaching the unsearch-
able riches of Christ presented itself he cheerfully em-
braced it, though sometimes the expenses of his
journey were greater than the intended remuneration.
Many instances of this nature might be selected from
his MSS. similar to the following: "March 28th, 1692,
I rode to preach at J. R.'s in Haworth town. God
greatly assisted my heart in weeping and wrestling
with him for the conversion of sinners, and in preach-
ing on Isaiah Iv, 7. There was a great crowd of peo-
ple and they were attentive. Who knows what good
may be done ? The same day, being Easter Monday,
the Vicar of Bradford sat all day in an alehouse, ga-
thering his dues in Haworth parish. There was wont
always to be a sermon in the church that day, but
Mr. P. had laid it aside. Many flocked to him to pay
the Easter reckonings, which came to about £lO. and
then came to hear me : I had nothing for my pains,
except some four or five put sixpence a-piece into my
hand. I rode fourteen miles there and back, and was
greatly comforted in my day's work, and thought it
was better than his. Though my worldly gains were
short, yet, may I gain one soul to Christ by my hard
labour, and I shall be satisfied.
Mr. Heywood possessed too great a sense of the
value of time and the important nature of his office to
be inactive. He considered his abilities and oppor-
DEATH AND CHARACTER. 349
t unities of usefulness as talents to be employed with
diligence in his Master's service. He spent much of
his time in his study, partly for the promotion of the
life of religion in his soul, and partly to furnish him-
self with proper materials for the work in which he
was engaged. It was his custom to rise at an early
hour and devote a considerable portion of time to
secret duty, in which he not only prayed, but read two
and sometimes three chapters in successive order. He
was assiduous in the pursuit of knowledge, but all his
attainments were consecrated on the altar of God.
His method in his pulpit preparations, was, after he
had chosen a text, to implore divine direction in com-
posing a large skeleton ; these notes he generally took
with him into the pulpit, leaving himself at liberty to
make use of any ideas or modes of expression that
might be suggested at the time of delivery. His dili-
gence was not confined to his study, and he could not
be classed among some good men who are " laboriously
doing nothing." Considering the peculiar circum-
stances in which he was placed, few ministers have ex-
ceeded him in the number of his engagements and la-
bours in the gospel. He was a preacher fifty-two
years, and only about half that number were years of
liberty. From a regular statement it appears, that
from 1665, at which time the conventicle act passed,
till 1701 inclusive, a term of thirty-seven years, seven-
teen of which only were years of public liberty, and
most of them after he had reached sixty years of age,
he preached on week-days, besides his regular work
on the Lord's day, 3027 sermons, kept 1256 fasts, ob-
served 314 thanksgiving days, and travelled on preach-
ing excursions 31,345 miles. .
350
LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
A Statement of the Sermons preached hy Mr. Heyivood on
the Week Days, the Fasts a?id Thanksgiving Days he
observed, and the Nuniher of Miles he travelled in his
Masters Service in each Year.
A. D.. Sei-ms. Fsts. Tkgs. TrvDeil. A. D. Serms. Fsts. Tk^'s. Trvlled.
1665tf
26
18
3
16666
60
20
3
1667
89
20
7
1668
69
18
3
1669 c
48
16
. 4
1670
53
20
• 8
1671
55
29
5
1672f/
62
28
8
1673
69
30
3
1674
72
33
5
1675e
48
—
—
1676
67
56
12
1677
60
40
8
1678
64
50
4
1679
77
52
7
1680
91
53
8
1681
105
50
9
1682
100
41
12
1683
109
49
7
600
700
900
700
(500
530
870
728
1070
910
1097
1052
1198
1034
1386
1250
1400
1100
900
1684
126
51
7
746
1685/
74
8
—
70
1686
132
37
15
1004
1687
124
44
15
1400
16880-
132
42
14
1300
1689 A
131
34
8
1358
1690 1
135
40
17
1100
1691yi-
103
37
11
833
1692/
97
49
14
966
1693
109
35
12
841
1694m
90
38
17
735
I695w
70
38
5
700
1696o
85
34
15
700
1697iJ
82
40
15
700
1698^
78
34
16
410
1699r
67
36
9
300
1700^
45
22
3
157
1701/
23
14
5
a This was the year after the passing of the Conventicle Act, when Mr.
Heywood commenced his account of his itinerant labours, &c.
h The Five-mile Act took place this year.
c A proclamation was published this year requiring Justices strictly to en-
force the laws against the Nonconformists.
d liicenses were granted this year,
e The licenses were recalled in the spring of this vear.
/ This year Mr. Heyivood was confined in York C;istle. He had liberty ta
preach in his chamber while confined, and his only journeys were to and from
York.
g The year of the glorious Revolution. Mr. H. was now in his sixtieth
year. From this time he kept a register of the children he baptized, who
amounted this year to the number of 22.
h Baptized 21 children.
i Baptized 20 children.
k Mv. H. was confined two months to his house by sickness this year. Bap-
tized 20 children.
/ Baptized 20 children.
DEATH AND CHAEACTEE. 351
His reasons for making and occasionally reviewing
this account are thus expressed : "1. That I might in
this respect number my days, according to Psal. xc.
12; at least to know thereby how my time passeth,
which I find is quicker than I was aware, and that I
might reflect on what I have done or misdone in my
past days. 2. That I may act in some way suitably
to God's dispensations : thou teilest my wanderings,
Psal. Ivi. 8. If my Lord takes notice of my wander-
ings, shall not I ? God reckoned Israel's wilderness
stages, and required them to remember them, Deut.
viii. 2. 3. God's servants in scripture, have reckoned
their travels and voyages, and what befell them ; as
Jacob, Gen.xlviii. 7—16. Paul, 2Cor. xi. 23—27. And
I may say something, through grace of my labours,
though far short of blessed Paul's. 4, This may vindi-
cate our persons and work in the sight of men, who
asperse us for idleness, and say, they wonder what M'e
do, and think we have easy lives ; in this we can ap-
peal to our Lord. 5. Hereby appears the strange
providence of God in crossing men's designs ; they shut
our mouths, but God opens them wider ; they scatter,
but God gathers people ; they confine, but God en-
largeth ; they banish, but God makes every place a
Bethel : thus Satan is outshot by his own bow ; Gen.
1. 20. Deut. xxiii. 5. 6. The review of past provi-
m Baptized 22 children, and wrote several Treatises.
n Wrote six Treatises, and printed two.
o W'rote six Treatises, but printed none except Job's Appeal.
p Wrote four Treatises, but printed none — also, one hundred Letters.
q Wrote four Treatises and one hundred and twenty-three Letters. At-
tended six meetings of ministers.
r Wrote four Treatises and one hundred and twenty Letters.
5 Wrote seven Treatises and one hundred and forty seven I^etters.
t Unable to travel. Baptized eight children. Attended eight conferences.
Wrote seven Treatises and one hundred and four Letters,
352 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYAVOOD.
dences may afterwards be of singular use to my own
soul, in humbling my heart, making me tinist in God
for the future, and teaching me not to despair in greater
straits whatever may befall me, since the same God is
all-sufficient ; Lam. iii. 19, 20. 2 Cor. i. 7, 8. 7.
There is a necessity for setting my accounts straight,
and taking a review of my life and actings, for God will
call me to an account of my stewardship, as to the im-
proving of my gifts and spending of my time, O ! that
I could keep right reckoning, and say as God's servants,
Isaiah xxxviii. 3. 2 Cor. i. 12. 8. By these means
I discover and consider where I have been sowing the
seed of the word, and how it comes up, what fruit it
brings forth. My case is parallel to theirs, mentioned
Matt. X. 23. I remain but a short time in one place ;
but O that any fruit may remain ! It may be, fruit will
appear when I am gone ; John iv. 37, 38. x. 41, 42.
9. This may be an example to my sons, to quicken
them to diligence in their Master's work, since they
also are devoted to God, and are now engaged in his
service. In me they may read a monument of divine
providence. Though turned out by men, yet taken in
by God, and as much employed as ever. Should they
be debarred of service in one place, God will open a
door in another, and if God cut outwork he will bestow
a reward ; though I am most unworthy, yet I can say
as Paul did, 1 Cor. xi. 1. 1 Thess. ii. 1—11. 10. What
I act or declare herein, I aim at God's glory chiefly,
who hath called me by his grace to the ministry, pro-
vided work for me, given me a heart to embrace calls
to do my Lord service, strength of body and mind,
some pleasing success, and caused my troubles for the
gospel to tend to its furtherance, and that I may be of
some use in my generation, Phil. i. 12. 1 Cor. x. 31."
DEATH AND CHARACTEK. 253
The doctrinal seiitiments of Mr. He3^woofl, which
he embraced and maintained in common with his bre-
thren the ejected ministers, were those which, for the
sake of distinction, have been denominated Calvinistic ;
which, as forming a system of faith, those holy men of
God drew not from any human source, but directly
from the pure fountain of revelation ; which were
stated by the Presbyterian divines in the Larger and
Shorter Catechisms drawn up at Westminster, and by
the Independents in the Declaration of their Faith and
Order, adopted in their meeting at the Savoy, in 1658.
For at that period the Nonconformists, with a very
few exceptions, had among them no diversity of doc-
trines. Their creeds were distinguished by their uni-
formity, how much soever they might differ on the
subject of church government.
It may perhaps be considered as not out of place, to
introduce some observations here on the changes which
have occurred in the circumstances of dissenters of
the Presbyterian. and Independent denominations, or if
they be regarded as a digression, their bearing on the
general interests of dissenters may warrant their intro-
duction. The following passage is extracted from the
History and Antiquities of Dissenting Churches in
London, by Walter Wilson, Esq. ; a work which
has not had that circulation among dissenters which
might have been expected from its merits : " The
whole face of nonconformity has undergone a very
material alteration since the first establishment of our
churches. Their founders were universally men of
learning and judgment, wholl)^ devoted to their work
and distinguished by an ardent zeal for the diffusion
of vital religion. At the same time, they were not'
indifferent to the principles of separation. Whilst
they taught forbearance and charity to their perse-
VOL. L 2 a
S54 LTFK OF Tlir, KKV. O. HKVWOOD.
cutors, they took joyfully the spoiling of their goods,
and counted not their lives dear unto them, when put
in competition with the cause they had espoused. By
means of their preaching, conversation, and other me-
thods of instruction, nonconformity flourished, their
churches multiplied, and in many places they had large
and attentive congregations. Their hearers also were
distinguished by a regard to serious religion, as well
as by their attachment to the cause for which they
suffered. In those days, men of rank and influence
were not ashamed to patronize the Nonconformists.
Many received them into tlieir houses as chaplains or
tutors to their children, and some attended their reli-
gious services, on which account they often screened
them from the malice of their enemies. The succes-
sors to the ejected ministers were men of a like spirit,
and no less distinguished for their literary attain-
ments, than for their ardent devotedness to the service
of God and the salvation of souls. Their labours for
the instruction of the rising generation, the extra-
ministerial services iu which they engaged, the public
lectures they conducted, and the works they published
for the purpose of fostering religious dispositions in
their people, all bear evidence to the value of their
characters and the utility of their exertions.
" After the decease of the second race of Noncon-
formists, a more dismal prospect opens to our view.
A state of ease had corrupted many from the simpli-
city of the gospel, and the snares of the world had
induced others to desert the religion of their fore-
fathers. To this, the operation of the Test Act and
other penal lavrs greatly contributed. With the new
race of ministers, a different mode of preaching began
to be introduced : some of the younger sort, wishing
to be thouglit polite, paid more attention to the com-
position of a sermon, than to the important matter
BEATII AND CHAllACTEI'v. 3i>5
which it should have contained. The prevalence of
infidelity furnished others with constant topics of dis-
course ; but as they did not preach to infidels, the
people ceased to be interested in v/hat they heard, and
then it is no wonder that they grew indifferent ; but
that which contributed most to the decline of the dis-
senting interest was, the change v/hich took place in
their doctrinal sentiments.
" A great majority of the ejected ministers were at-
tached to the Presbyterian discipline, and the churches
they founded were arranged under that denomination ;
but they maintained a friendly correspondence with
their Congregational brethren until the fatal disputes
concerning subscription effectually divided them.
From that time, the Presbyterians have continued to
decline in a very progressive manner, till their congre-
gations have been ruined, and, in many instances, their
meeting-houses have been shut up. As they pro-
ceeded in their course of declension, and as liberality
grew into fashion, the divines of the new school began
to preach up the innocency of mental error, and the
celebrated lines of Pope were appealed to with as
much confidence, as any one would quote a text of
scripture to support a doctrine. Considerable progress
being now made towards undermining the necessity of
revelation, it is no v/onder that the light of nature
became exalted, and huge volumes were v/ritten to
delineate the beauties of natural religion. This pre-
pared the way for rejecting those doctrines of revela-
tion, which were supposed to m.ilitate against the
reason and fitness of things, and the wisdom of the
Almighty being brought down to a level with human
comprehension, their S5'stem began to be applauded
even by the infidels themselves."*
* Vol. iv. pages 552 — 554.
2 A 2
356 Lin: of the uev. o. tieywood.
After the Presbyterians no longer professed ad-
herence to the doctrines of their fathers, which had
been sanctioned by the celebrated JVest minster Assem-
My, as the standard of orthodoxy, " the mantle of the
ejected ministers was transferred to the Independents.
These were at first a much smaller body than the
other, but the number of their churches gradually in-
creased, and their interests became very considerable.
It is greatly to their honour, that amidst surrounding-
declensions, they continued stedfast in the faith once
delivered to the saints." Without a hierarchy, without
presbyteries, or synods, or a general assembly, without
even any visible bond of union, and having almost the
appearance of a rope of sand, the Independent churches,
from the days of Dr. Owen to the present time, have
uniformly maintained the same doctrinal sentiments,
or if any faint shades of diversity are perceivable
among them now, the same varieties of opinion may
be traced, as existing among them a hundred and fifty
years ago.
But to what shall such uniformity be ascribed, uni-
formity which is so rare a feature of any other ecclesi-
astical community, which neither his Holiness of Rome
with all his pretensions to infallibility, nor the Acts
of an English legislature, nor the decisions of Scot-
land's General Assembly have been able to accomplish?
To this question, a plain answer can be given — atten-
tion and obedience to the precedents and rules of the
New Testament, have done what no human power or
policy can ever do. The members of the first christian
churches are characterized by the inspired writers as
" saints," that is, holy persons who had given satisfac-
tory evidence of having been " washed, and sanctified,
and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the
Spirit of our God." They are also denominated the
"faithful," or believers in Christ Jesus, who had obtained
DEATH AND CHAKACTER. 357
" like precious faitb" as the apostles themselves had,
and they are described as having "purified their souls in
obeying the truth through the Spirit — being born again,
not of corruptible seed, but incorruptible, by the word
of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." Such were
the constituents of the primitive churches, which the
Independents regard as their models, and hence neither
knowledge, nor moral respectability unaccompanied by
experimental religion, is with them a sufficient qualifi-
cation for admission into their societies ; but it is ex-
pected at the same time, that their avowed religious
experience be evidenced, by the regularity of their lives
and conversation, their peaceable dispositions, and their
attachment to the means of grace. Now when due
care is taken to form churches on this plan, it may be
justly calculated, that a majority at least of the mem-
bers will bear the character of the first Christians, as
delineated by the pen of inspiration; and if the majority
are of this description, they will manifest no indiffer-
ence, when on the election of a minister, it is necessary
to decide respecting the piety of a candidate for their
suffrages. " The piety also of the individual members
will be promoted, when evidence of piety is the only
qualification for membership, when piety forms the
very end and bond of union, when the forfeiture of
pious character is the forfeiture of membership, and
when every office, when every institution is directed
to the simple purpose of edification. Where no worldly
mixtures are tolerated, where no human authorities are
recognised, and where no worldly objects are pursued,
there personal religion is likely to flourish. — Besides,
this order of things v/ill be equally conducive to the
preservation of the doctrines of truth. Form a reli-
gious society on the scriptural model, let accredited
piety be the qualification of membership, give to the
358 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
members the power of discipline, and let discipline be
exercised according to the minutely prescribed rules of
the New Testament, and among them ti'uth will be
preserved. It is matter of fact, that the churches, the
order of which has been now described, have without
any human creed been usually harmonious ; even in
the minutest points of their theological system, they
have seen almost eye to eye. And if exceptions be
pointed out, we may usually discover derelictions from
the Congregational system, preceding departures from
scripture truth. "WTien personal piety is the pre-re-
quisite for membership, the great doctrines of the gos-
pel must be maintained, not merely in theory, but in
deed and in truth." *
Among the things which contributed materially to
preserve among the Independents, the faith of the ori-
ginal Nonconformists, and to increase their numbers,
may be reckoned the caution generally observed during
the last seventy years in the introduction of students
into their academical institutions. Among dissenters,
the first seminaries were of a mixed character: the sons
of opulent dissenters, without any profession in view,
and others intended for the bar, or the practice of
medicine, or the pursuits of trade and commerce, were
admitted along with candidates for the ministry. Nor
was this the only evil Vv^hich operated to the disadvan-
tage and prejudice of their institutions. According to
the fond wishes and partialities of parents, youth with-
out giving any substantial evidence of personal piety,
were often introduced into them, that they might be
prepared for assuming the ministerial character ; and
then followed a description of ministers who proved
the bane of dissenting churches. When no investiga-
* Discourses nt the Recognition of Mv. Fox, as minister at
Hull, page 30, 31.
DEATH AND CHAIIACTEK. 359
tioii had taken place to ascertain their personal religion,
many aspired at the pastoral office, who having no con-
cern for their own salvation, could not be expected to
feel concern for the salvation of others ; the conse-
quence was, that the congregations of dissenters began
to sink into an awful state of torpid indifference, and
to approach the verge of annihilation. But in later
periods, the academical institutions established and
patronized by the zealous friends of religion, both in
the metropolis and the country, have under the bless-
ing of Heaven, been the means of introducing a pleasing
change in the circumstances of the Independent denomi-
nation ; for they have not only emitted a steady light,
but diffused a genial warmth where the frosts of win-
ter had benumbed the energies of spiritual life. The
care employed in their management, to prevent the ad-
mission of men destitute of real religion, contributed
greatly to secure the accomplishment of the object in
contemplation. The students undergo the scrutiny
which precedes the reception of members in Congre-
gational churches ; when they have had some standing
in church fellowship, they must be recommended by
the pastors and members of the churches to which they
belong, as possessing genuine piety and promising gifts ;
on offering themselves for admission into seminaries,
they are required to produce a statement of their reli-
gious experience, the motives which influence them
in becoming candidates for the ministry, and the lead-
ing articles of their faith. After which, they remain
in the Academy some months on probation, before they
are admitted to all the advantages of the Institu-
tion. When any applicant is a stranger to the power
of godliness, he must be no ordinary adept in hypo-
crisy, if he can pass such an ordeal without detection.
Such is the mode of admission which has been gene-
360 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
rally adopted, for a considerable time, in nearly all our
academical institutions, and the results have been
highly favourable to the increase and prosperity of our
congregations and churches. In the West-Riding of
Yorkshire, which had been the principal sphere of Mr.
Heywood's labours, a religious seminary, formed on
the plan which has been just now described, was es-
tablished in 1756; and there is one thing which im-
pressed a peculiar character on this institution. At
the period of its establishment and some time after, the
labours of GiiiMSHAW and Venn in the church, and
the itinerant exertions of Whitfield and Wesley,
the celebrated founders of Methodism, gave an extra-
ordinary impulse to the population. In these circum-
stances, young men whose hearts God had touched, and
who had imbibed a large measure of the spirit which
prevailed, came forward and entered on studies prepa-
ratory to the work of the ministry; blending zeal for the
everlasting welfare of their fellow men, with their de-
sire to augment their qualifications for the stated dis-
charge of ministerial duties, they made frequent excur-
sions into the populous district around them, to excite
the attention of the careless to the things of religion,
to save those that were ready to perish, and to diffuse
the knowledge of the truth. Their attainments in
literature might not equal those which were made in
preceding dissenting academies, where students were
confined to classical and philosophical pursuits till they
had completed, or nearly completed, the course of edu-
cation. But if they had less knowledge of the predi-
caments of Aristotle or the quantity of syllables in
the plays of Sophocles, they knew more of the gospel
of Jesus Christ, they had more facility in dispensing
the truth, and greater skill in directing the arrows of
conviction to the consciences of men, and they were
DEATH AND CHAllACTER. 361
honoured with extensive usefuhiess, and ultimately-
occupied important stations in the church of God.
In contrasting the early religious seminaries of dis-
senters, and especially of Presbyterian dissenters, with
those of more modern date, for the purpose of exhibit-
ing the different results which followed in consequence
of their different regulations, another consideration
may be stated, which contributed not a little towards
the unpreparedness of students in the first dissenting
academies for the discharge of public duties ; they were
kept close to their mathematical and literary studies,
and for the greatest part, if not the whole, of their
period of education prevented from exercising any
ability which they might possess to qualify them for
discharging acceptably the office of preachers ; the con-
sequence was, that being untrained for any thing ap-
proaching a popular mode of address, they often con-
tented themselves with becoming lifeless readers of
sermons. But as far as dissenters of the Independent
denomination are concerned, things have undergone
an important change, the evils to which allusion has
been made have been remedied, their academies are in
prosperous circumstances, every thing that wisdom can
suggest has been done to render their machinery effi-
cient ; such as have been educated in them are, with
few exceptions, a credit to their profession and have
become the means of extensive usefulness ; some of
them, by the brilliancy of their talents, reflect a lustre
on the age in which they live.
In bringing this digression to a close, it may not be
imdeserving of remark, that here a striking instance of
the inadequacy of human wisdom to accomplish its pro-
jects occurs for consideration. Uniformity was to the
Presbyterians an object of great solicitude, and among
different denominations of professed Christians has
362 IJFE OF THE llEV. O. IIEYWOOD..
been attempted to be secured by creeds, and subscrip-
tions, and oaths, by pains and penalties, and the blood
of human victims. But after a long trial Presby-
terianism, however it might otherwise succeed, com-
pletely failed to produce uniformity of doctrinal senti-
ments ; for in none of the classes into which the chris-
tian world is divided, can there be found greater di-
versities of opinion than have existed among the Eng-
lish Presbyterians. Far otherwise has the case been
with the Independents ; without the interposition of
human authority, or any political or compulsory means,
they have maintained the faith of the first Noncon-
formists, without the slightest variation, to the present
day.
The following observations on this subject from a
Critical Journal, whose predilections are certainly not
in favour of Calvinistic sentiments, are coincident with
the preceding remarks: " It is curious indeed to observe,
how the subsequent history and fortunes of each of
these bodies, (Presbyterians and Independents) have
been determined by the characteristic difference of
their original constitution. The moderate aristocracy
of Presbyterianism, as long as Presbyterianism could
be said to have any form of government, enabled its
ministers to follow their own inclinations, with regard
to the manner of conducting public worship, and the
strain of preaching; while the jealous democracy of
Independency kept the minister under the eye and
the controul of his people, and punished the first
appearance of deviation, though merely negative, from
the standard of orthodoxy. The Presbyterian ministers
became men of polished manners, partook largely of
the biblical knowledge, and the elegant and scientific
literature of the age, dropped in every generation
something of the orthodoxy of their forefathers, and
DEATH AND CHARACTER. 363
while their flocks gradually diminished, contented
themselves with being the rational instructors of the
few, rather than the idols of the multitude. Of late,
they seem to have discovered that as a religious com-
munity they must speedily become extinct by adhering
to this plan : new controversies have sprung up among
them, and though, with a new principle of cohesion
and repulsion, they may still maintain themselves as a
distinct body, the history of Preshytericmism, as a sect
deducing itself from the time of the great separation
from the Establishment in 1662, must be considered as
very nearly closed."*
At the time Mr. Heywood was introduced into the
work of the ministry, the Preshyterian form of church
government was predominant in England. Where it
was established, every congregation had its eldership,
and several elderships in a district constituted a classis,
at whose meetings ministers were ordained, and the
general concerns of the churches within that district
were attended to. These classes maintained inter-
course by a provincial assembly, which for the county
of Lancaster was generally held at Preston, to which
all final appeals were made. Mr. H. was ordained by
the classis assembling at Bury, in Lancashire, not far
from his native place. When he undertook the charge
at Coley, he attempted to establish, as far as existing
circumstances permitted, the preshyterian discipline,
in which he partly succeeded ; and when licenses were
granted in 1672, he formed a church at Northowram,
and conducted it on the principles, of moderate pres-
byterianism. Though he approved of this form of
church government, he was no bigot to modes of wor-
ship, but cordially esteemed all that loved the Lord
Jesus Christ in sincerit)^ He lived on the most affec-
* Monthly Review, N.S. vol. Ixjcxi. 411.
364 I-IFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
tionate terms with Mr. Thomas Jollie, of Wymond-
Houses, and Mr. Timothy Jollie, of Sheffield, who
were both decided congregationalists, and united with
them in the ordination of ministers. So moderate was
he in his principles, and so similar in many respects
were the sentiments and practices of the English
Presbyterians at that time to those of the Indepen-
dents, that the church at Northowram, a few years
after its formation, consisted partly of Independents,
though chiefly of Presbyterians. Happy will that
day be, when all minor distinctions between the fol-
lowers of the Lamb shall be lost in the general name
of Christians, when Ephraim shall not envy Judah,
and Judah shall not vex Ephraim.
The success with which it pleased God to crown the
labours of Mr. Heywood, was unusual, and such as
will be fully known only at the last day. Mr. Baxter
observes : " That our success commonly bears a much
more exact proportion to our design, our desire, and
our hope than we imagine." If this be correct, we
need not wonder that Mr. H. was so successful in his
ministerial work. Few men were more diligent in
labours, or more earnest, benevolent, and pure in their
desires than he. He entertained the most exalted
ideas of the ministerial work, as the means by which
the cause of Christ is to be advanced. " To be instru-
mental in converting a sinner," he observes, " is to do
more than Alexander did, in conquering the world.
To subjugate a soul to Christ, is more than to have
the necks of emperors at my footstool : yea, it is a
thousand times more precious and glorious than to be
master and owner of all the mines of Ophir and India.
Hadst thou, my soul, been spending thyself in secret
tears and trials, and public prayers and pains in dili-
gently spreading the gospel net all thy days, and hadst
DEATH AND CIlAKACTEIt. 365
drawn but one soul to Jesus Christ, that reward would
be richly worth them all ; but that in so few years
thou shouldst become the spiritual father of so numer-
ous an offspring, this is rich grace !" Influenced by
these sentiments, it was natural that he should make
the conversion of souls to Christ the subject of his
daily prayers, and the object of his constant exertions.
Many pious and useful servants of Christ are uncon-
scious of the real success of their labours, and perhaps,
at the time, they are most distressed on this account,
God is giving them souls for their hire. It was the
privilege of Mr. H. not only to be useful, but to be fa-
voured with the knowledge of many instances of suc-
cess, especially in prohibited places, and persecuting
times. "Jan. 21st, 1676," he thus writes, "I went to
a meeting at Capt. Hodgson's ; when I came there, I
found some persons I knew not ; Mr. Hodgson told
me they were some young men who were my hearers,
hopeful for religion, and that they had set up a monthly
meeting for prayer ; but as I was come, they desired
me to spend some time in discourse. I begged a bless-
ing, and Mr. Hodgson and N. Barker prayed, during
which God much affected my heart, especially in the
latter's affectionate requests for me and my sons. After-
wards I took a text, Zech. iv. 6, ' Not by might, nor by
power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.' I
intended only a few words extempore, but having be-
gun and raised a doctrine, God cast into my mind
abundance of matter suitable to the text and comjDany,
far beyond my expectation. I spent about an hour in
that work, comfortably to myself, and I hope profitably
to others, and then concluded with prayer, wherein
God wonderfully enlarged my heart." "Jan. 20th. I am
pressed in spirit to take notice of the fruit of my poor la-
bours and returns of prayer, which are best evidenced by
ti66 LIFE OF THE KEY. O. IIEYWOOD.
the increase of visible professors, private meetings, and
forwardness therein. There are four meetings among
my hearers about home, and three about Warley. I
am informed that many attend them, that there are
good liopes, great reformations, and strong convictions.
Who knows what God may do by them ? Blessed be
the name of my God. On one of these occasions, a
person who engaged in prayer, thus expressed himself :
That he could travel no where abroad, but he could
hear of some good done by me." To use his own words,
he said, " God had helped me to shoot such darts as
here and there had pierced to the heart, and fastened
there for the conviction and humiliation of sinners.
Let God have the glory, for nothing is due to me ; yet
God forbid, I should obscure or deny what my dear
Lord hath done in me and by me : Rom. xv. 17 — 19."
"Sept. 8th, 1676. I went to John Butterworth's, at
Warley, to keep a private fast with the young converts
in that neighbourhood, and it was a delightful day ; all
who prayed, far exceeded my expectation. T. Bentley,
J. Waddington, M. Stead, (a blind man,) and J. Simp-
son engaged in j^rayer. I was melted to many tears
during the prayers of the first and last. I concluded
with the expression of much thankfulness to see such
forwardness ; and O, how was my heart enlarged !
There were above sixty persons present, and much ex-
citement of feeling. When I first went to that place,
not four years ago, there was only one praying family
in that township, John Wilkinson's, and when he
prayed, the people gathered about his house, mocked
and abused him, and called him a wizzard. When he
died, he desired I would preach his funeral sermon,
on John xiv. 2 ; which I did, at John Butterworth's,
and have still continued preaching here, which hath
had this effect. Blessed be God." Many similar in-
DEATPI AND CHARACTF.U. 367
stances are recorded by liim. In the year 1682, he
heard of forty different individuals v/ho had been bene-
fitted by his ministry. " Aug. 11th, 1694," he thus
expresses himself, " T perceive there is more good done
by my ministry than I was aware of, and, it may be,
more than I shall know of whilst I live ; for I fre-
quently hear of some or other wrought upon by my
poor labours. Blessed be God ;" and he mentions se-
veral individuals who had expressed their thankfulness
to God, that numbers, that thousands had been convert-
ed by his instrumentality, adding, " Soli Deo gloria."
Mr. Heywood's successful labours were continued to
the end of his days, for when prevented travelling
abroad, he was industriously employed in writing let-
ters or treatises for his friends, or composing for the
press. When drawing near to the close of life, he
thus wrote to a friend : " I have now been above fifty
years labouring in the Lord's vineyard, studying, pray-
ing, and preaching both at home and abroad, wherever
the providence of God called me. I have reached
nearly two years beyond the age of man, and am, as
may be supposed, incapacitated for travelling. A very
sore asthma, or difficulty of breathing, adds consider-
ably to the weight of my other infirmities, so that I
am mostly confined to my own house, and can only
study, preach in my chapel, and exercise myself in writ-
ing books and sermons for those that desire them."
Thus as a true and faithful soldier, he fought a good
fight, and death found him employing spiritual wea-
pons against the principalities and powers of darkness.
Having finished his work, he had nothing to do but
follow the messenger sent to conduct him to the pre-
sence of his Lord. When engaged in a tedious and
painful conflict with spiritual adversaries, he had often
been animated by the encouraging language of the
3(^8 T.IFE OF THE IlEV. O. IIEYWOOIJ.
Captain of salvation : " To him that overcometh will
I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also
overcame and am set down with my Father in his
throne." He has long since exchanged a state of suf-
fering for that of rest, the sword of combat for the
palm of victory, and the reproach of the world for a
crown of righteousness. Be it our concern to follow
those who, through faith and patience, inherit the
promises ; and let it be our fervent prayer, that a suc-
cession of holy and useful ministers may be raised up
and zealously employed, till all the purposes of divine
mercy are accomplished on earth, and till, on the day
of the manifestation of the sons of God, the Voice of
the archangel shall rouse the sleeping dead, and ter-
minate the mysteries of Providence.
APPENDIX,
COMPRISING
EXTRACTS FROM MR. HEYWOOD'S
VOL. I. 2 E
APPENDIX.
Additional Extracts from tlie Diary of the Reverend
O. Hey wood, intended not only to supply further
Evidence that he was indefatigable in his Labours,
but also to illustrate an Observation made at page
190 in this Volume.
1666.
May 16th. — In the morning, by sun-rising, I left my own
house and went to Allerton to see my friends there ; then vi-
sited Mr. Bentley, at Bingley, whose condition is worse tlian
mine ; for he is in the same house with persons with whom he
cannot comfortably serve God, nor hath he the free exercise of
liis religion, which makes him desire and wish for some house
of his own. Thence I went to Menstone, and was all niglit
with Colonel Charles Fairfax, where I was very kindly enter-
tained ; thence I went on Friday to Bramhope, and spent tlie
sabbath very agreeably with Mr. Dinely, and to old Mr. Haw-
den's, of llawden, at night, where I had a large auditory ;
there I stayed all night, and met with very m.uch refreslnnent.
The day after, being Monday, May 20th, I went to Bramley,
and^was all night with Elias Hinchball, where speedily there
was got together a great number from Leeds and other parts,
and I preached to them till almost midnight, when the Lord in
mercy assisted. May 24th, Thursday, I went to Wakefield,
where, in the afternoon, I preached at my lodging, wliich v/as
the house of Mrs. Elizabeth lliddlesden : on Saturday, we kept
a fast at Mr. Kei-by's house, there the Lord graciously helped
me in preaching and prayer ; on the same day, I rode to
Penistone, where I spent the Lord's day, May 2Tth, in public *
without disturbance ; there was a numerous congregation from
all parts, and I had great liberty in preaching and prayer, but
not such meltings of heart as sometimes I have felt, nor can I
be so affected with the state of sovds, nor do that good which my
* Not in a private house, but in a Cliapel or consecrated place of worsuip.
2B2
372 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEVWOOD.
heart desires. On Monday, I came from Penistoiie to Alver-
thorp, near AVakefield, and preached about six o'clock at tlie
house of one Thomas Holdsworth, and stayed all night witli
my sons (who were come to meet me) at the house of John
Kirks : on Thursday, I brought my sons within two miles of
my own house, and then turned to visit my good friend Mr.
Thorp, at Hopton-Hall, from whence we went to visit friends
on the Wednesday, and on the Thursday I preached to a few
there, and then proceeded to Robert Binns's liouse, to visit my
friends about Siaithwaite, where I am wont to have exercises
every year ; but now they are fallen and all things changed.
June 4th, IVIonday night, I went to visit my good friend, James
Sagar, (a very worthy aged Christian,) who being sick, had sent
for me ; I found him ve,ry weak, prayed with him that night,
and in the morning, and through mercy he was much better
when I left him ; on the approach of night I came homewards,
visited iVlr. Nesce and several others in my return, and came
home.
June 16th. — Saturday night, on earnest solicitation, I went
to Eramley in the night, about seven miles, God mercifully
preserved me ; I preacl:ed three times on the Lord's day, and
was much refreslied ; the hearts of the people were much af-
fected. I hope some good was done. Having visited friends
by the way, on Monday night, June 18, I returned home with
safety.
Dec. 3. — I went to IVIr. John Sharp's of Little Horton,
vvliere Mr. Sharp, having appointed a meeting with an intention
to preach, they put me upon that work in his room ; on Tues-
day night I preaclied at Mr. Rawden's at Rawden ; on Wed-
nesday night at Jcseph Kitchin's house at Farsley, where I
had a good auditory ; on the Thursday night at Leeds, and on
the Fridav travelled to AVakefield. At night I lodged with
jvlr. Clayton of Okenshaw ; on the Saturday, (according to
promise) I went to Sir Edward Rhodes's house at Houghton,
and spent tlie Sabbath there with much comfort; on the Mon-
day went to York, and stayed there till Tuesday, visited
friends, and went to Mr. Vincent's house at the Grange ; on
Thursday I went to Swath-hall and lodged there that night ;
on Friday visited friends and lodged at Nathaniel Bottomley's,
where I preached — the Lord graciously assisting ; on Saturday
I went to l*enistone, and preached there on the Lord's day — it
was a precious day to my soul.
16G7.
Jan. 31, which was Thursday. — I began to take another
EXTKACTS. 373
joiu-ney, (according to promise) and that night Mr. Sharp and
I united in preaching to a considerable number at William Hodg-
son's in Bowling, near Bradford; on Friday I visited friends,
and lodged at Mr. Sales's at Fudsey ; on Saturday went to
Bramley, where I preached three times on the Lord's day, and
enjoyed a sweet distinguishing ordinance ; on Monday night- 1
preached at S. Ellison's, near Bramley ; on Tuesday I went to
Leeds, visited some friends, baptized some children, but could
not preach that night on account of extremely acute head-ache,
but being better on Wednesday morning I preached ; then
visited W. Whitley who was very sick, with whom I had inte-
resting discourse, and that day travelled to Bramhope, where
first I prayed with Mr. W. Dinely who was near to death of a
consumption ; afterwards I preached to the family and some
others that came to hear me, and preached again in the morn-
ing ; at night came to Mr. Rawden's of Rawden, where I
preached ; on Friday, being Feb. 8. I called on my good friend
Mr. Waterhouse, supped with him, and in the evening returned
in safety to my own house, and found all well : blessed be God.
April 29th, Leaving home, I went towards Lancashire,
and lodged at Matthew Hollis's house at Rochdale, where I
preached ; on the Tuesday, to Manchester, and lodged at Mr.
Hutton's. That night it is their foolish custom after twelve
o'clock to rise and ramble abroad, make garlands, strew flowers,
&c. which they call Brbigkig in May ; I could sleep little
that night, by reason of the tumult ; the day after being May
the 1st, I went to Denton.
Aug. 23rd, Friday. — I went from home with my wife,
and that day preached at AVilliam Hodgson's, in Bowling, to
a considerable auditory, and lodged at night with Mr. Sijarp,
at Little Horton. On Saturday, I preached at Josei^h Kit-
chen's, Farsley, and that night rode to Bramhope, where I spent
the Lord's day following, and had a large assembly in Mr.
Dinely's hall ; there God made me of some use in that family.
On Monday, I went to William Thompson's at Headingley,
and there preached at night ; the day after to Leeds, and
preached at even in Samuel Boys' house, and lodged at Mr.
Spencer's, in Meadow Lane. ()n Wednesday morning, I
preached at Mr. Spencer's new house in Hunslet Lane, where
I had a great assembly, and God graciously appeared, afford-
ing abundant assistance and protection. I dined with Joseph
Jackson, and afterwards walked into the town to visit friends ;
that night I went to Bramley, and in the night preached at
Ellis Bury's house ; the day after I visited friends in Bramley,
Pudsey, and Farsley, and came at night to Rawden, and
374 LIFE or THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
jn-eaclied there tliat evcni-ng according to appointment in old
Mr. ilawden's house ; the day after, I visited JVlr. AVaterhouse
in my return home winch I reached, August 30th, having
been just a week abroad, and having preached nine times in
those seven days. Blessed be God for work, help and hopes
of a reward in due time. Sept. 5th. — Thursday, I went to
Bingley, I visited some as I went, and lodged at Marlcy-hall,
where I preached that night ; the first meeting in private, I
suppose they have had in that parish ; the Lord graciously as-
sisted and brought together a considerable number, who were
much afiected. V\^ho knows but some good may be done .'' The
day after, I visited my good friend Mr. Bentley, who lives in that
parish, or rather is buried there, being much out of the road
and out of public employment; I dined with him, and came after-
wards to visit Mr. Furnace at Ovenden, and so home that night.
Nov. 26fch, — Two eminent servants of God are dead, Mr.
Hawksworth, minister formerly at liunslet, buried there yester-
day, and Mr. Smallwood,* formerly minister of Batley, buried
this day — the former died at Aiverthorp-hall, on Saturday
afternoon, Nov. 23 ; the latter, aged sixty, at Flanshaw, Nov.
24th, being the Lord's day in the afternoon, not a quarter of a
mile distance, and not a day between their deaths. The Lord
sanctify these awful breaches and presages of wrath.
1668.
Feb. 8th. — According to a call and promise, my wife and I
rode to Idle, in Calveriey parish, where (the place being vacant)
I preached the day after, being the Lord''s day, and had a very
numerovis congregation — the Lord graciously assisted and pre-
served me in safety ; on Monday I went to Rawden and
preached there that night ; on the Tuesday to Bradford, visited
Mr. Erooksbank, and lodged with Mr. Waterhouse ; the day
after called at Mr. Sharp's, where was appointed a meeting that
day, but it was put off by business, we then came home that
night, and found all well, blessed be God. On Friday, Feb.
14th, — I went again to Little liorton, and Mr. Waterhouse,
]\Ir. Dawson, Mr. Sharp, and I kept the day upon a solemn
occasion, and oh liow my heart was enlarged in tlie duty !
Feb. 28th. — Being Saturday, I went to Penistone, where I
* Mr. Smalhvood ^\^as born in Cliesliire. He was some time chaplain to
liord Fairfax, and afterwards to Lamhert in the army. He was turned out of
Batley, a sequestered living, in KJCO. and preached in Idle chapel till 1C62.
He was a man of a noble, valiant, active spirit. His great delight and excel-
lency lay in preac'aing for the conviction and av/akening of sinners, in wliich
(iod wonderfully pros]H".-ed him. He whs a moderate Congregationalist, ready
to act iu concert with his brethren. — Noncon. Mem, vol. in. page 438.
3 I'
iff t<8^Sx<j -h BtaS
«^ > i^^ ^ SU« i^^X
>^' fe^/K-iif
SarJ&prr -f/*
EXTRACTS. 375
preached next day, but through indisposition of body, I was
something dull, though treating upon the subject of lukewarm-
ness, yet God helped in prayer ; at night I went to Cawthorne,
and lodged with William Roebuck. On Monday, I travelled
to visit old Mr. Spawford, at Mr. Cotton's house, and that day
came to Wakefield, preached in the evening at Mrs. Kerby's,
and lodged at Christopher Wilson's. On Tuesday I went to
Leeds, visited my Lady Hoyle in the way, lodged and preaclied
at Robert Hickson's ; on Wednesday, visited one Stephen
Blagbrough, who was sick and sore afflicted in conscience, and
that night I returned home.
May 31th. — Lord's day, I preached in my house, and had a
large auditory ; on Tuesday Mr. Sales, Mr. Hawden, Mr. Daw-
son, and I, kept a private fast with and for Elizabeth Sagar, at
Allerton, who is under desertion, temptation, and sorely pressed
with melancholy, God in mercy assisted; on Wednesday, I
preached my lecture at home ; it was a good day. On Friday,
June 5th, — we were five ministers and several Christians en-
gaged in exercises of solemn thankfulness for Mr. Sharp's re-
covery at Little Horton. O how my heart was melted in that
duty ! blessed be my good God.
July 12th. — Lord's day, I preached at home, and the next
after that, and had great multitudes to hear me. The week fol-
lowing, on Monday night, my dear brother Nathaniel came
to visit us, having preached in public at Bramley, on the Lord's
day ; he preached with us on Tuesday, and on Wednesday I
brought him homewards.
Aug. 30th. — Being the Sabbath, I preached all day at Idle
chapel, whither God brought a mighty congregation, affections
were moved, and it may be, some good is done, blessed be God
for that day ; I went from home in the morning, and came
home at night.
1669.
Aug. 1st. — Sabbath day, I went to Idle, and preached,
where God graciously helped ; there was a fair field in which
to reap, and a great assembly, with some excitement of feeling ;
who knows what the effect may prove ?
1670.
Jan. 8th. — I went to Honley, and next day being tlic Sab-
bath, preached there, went to Hulme at night and preached at
Mr. Earnshaw's on the Monday, and on Tuesday came home,
found all well ; blessed be God.
376 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
1679.
October 2nd. — I rode to Stubbings, and preached at S. Hop-
kinson"'s; God wonderfully melted my heart in prayer, and as-
sisted me in preaching from these words : " Let us consider
one another, to provoke unto love and to good works.""
3rd. — We had our solemn day of humiliation at my house.
God was pleased to assist me wonderfully in praying and preach-
ing ; it was a precious season.
4th. — ^Vas assisted in study, though much interrupted.
My wife and I resolved to spend some time in prayer together
• — distracted by company.
5th. — God wonderfully enlarged my heart in prayer, preach-
ing, and administering the Lord's supper. Blessed be his holy
name.
6th. — Visited the family of J. Baxter, and was comforted in
prayer. Studied the rest of the day.
7tli. — My wife and I rode to Mr. Sharp's at Little Horton,
where we kept a day of thanksgiving for family deliverances.
It was a good season, though my heart was not so much affected
as I have experienced on the like occasion. Lord, shew me
the cause.
8th. — My son Eliezer and I rode to Mr. Cotton's, at Den-
by, where God mercifully assisted us in the acts of worship, in
which we were both engaged.
9th. — Mr. Hancock and I preached at Mr. Cotton's. He
on these words, " Giving thanks to the Father, who hath made
us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light ;"
and I on the following : " But this I say, brethren, that the
time is short." God graciously comforted my heart in the
work of the day.
10th. — Visited some other friends ; set out after dinner,
called on Mr. Thorp, rode home, and was mercifully delivered
from the dangers of the waters by the way. Blessed be God.
12th. — AVas graciously assisted in all the public services of
the day, and filled with comfort. Blessed be the name of the
Lord for ever.
18th. — Attended the funeral of Robert Ramsden, of Halifax,
calka on Dr. Hook, and visited other friends.
14th. — Rode to Dam-head, where God wonderfully melted
my heart in prayer, and in preaching to a full assem.bly from
these words : " Now, therefore, thus saith the Lord of hosts,
Consider your ways." The Lord gave hopes of good, by stir-
ring up the affections of those who were present.
15th. — Was mercifully assisted in making preparations for
EXTRACTS. 377
the work of the ensuing day. My heart was quickened in of-
fering praise and thanksgivings to God for his unnumbered
mercies.
16th. — We had a day of thanksgiving for public and family
mercies. Mr. Dawson was employed in offering up our praises
to the Lord ; after which I was engaged in the same delightful
work, and in preaching.
17th. — We had a solemn day of fasting and prayer at J.
Kershaw's. O what a heart-melting season was this to us ! I
hope God will hear and answer prayer.
18th. — In study and prayer was much enlarged : it was a
good day. Glory be to the name of my merciful Father.
^ 19th. — We had a numerous assembly. I would be thankful
for some measure of comfort, though I did not experience such
meltings in prayer as at some times.
20th. — I travelled to Great Gomersal, kept a solemn fast
with Mr. Dawson, Mr. Holdsworth, * and many more. The
Lord sweetly melted my heart in prayer and preaching.
21st. — Took a journey towards Craven, visited J. Forster's
family, and preached at Thos. Leech's to a considerable com-
pany- In the evening, the Lord assisted Thomas Leech, M.
Broadley, and myself in praying for the nation.
22nd. — Preached at J. Key's to a full assembly. The Lord
wonderfully blessed us in prayer ; many tears were shed, and
the people were so much affected that at some times my voice
was scarcely heard. I have seldom known the like before !
Surely it is a favourable token.
24th. — Came with some friends to J. Baldwin's, where some
time was spent in useful discourse. Returning home at night,
I saw great reason to bless God for this sweet journey.
25th — Endeavoured to study, but my heart was cold, dead,
and distracted. The Lord pardon me.
26th. — This was a day of mercy. The Lord helped me in
praying and preaching amongst a multitude of people. My
text was, " He also shall be my salvation."
27th. — We kept a solemn fast at Alice Holt's. O what a
day was this ! What meltings of heart and shedding of tears
before the Lord ! Mr. Dawson, Mr. Priestley, Mr. l^radshaw,
and myself were employed in prayer. Blessed be my God for
such seasons as these !
• He was chaplain to Sir Rich. Houghton, of Hougliton Tower, in I>Hn-
cashire, after his ejectment from the University of Cambridge. In UJ72, he
preached pnbUcly at Heckmondwike, in Yorkshire, and continued to labour
there till his death in 1685, when not quite iifty years of aye. His memory is
still revered as a useful minister of Christ.
378 LIVE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
29th. — We had a solemn fast at Mr. Dawson's on account of
the nation. My heart was sweetly enlarged.
SOth. — Preached at Sowerby on Heb. x. 24. Alas ! I see
many defects in what I do, and great cause for humiliation ;
yet the Lord stands by me to help me in time of need.
31st. — Was much refreshed in closet prayer, but afterwards
lost much time in seeking some sermons which I could not find.
The Lord pardon me. Afterwards visited J. Langley, discours-
ed, and prayed with him.
November 1st. — The Lord graciously led my thoughts to a
text, after I had been much agitated about the choice of one.
My heart was then quieted, and I was helped in studying.
2nd. — Preached on these words, " Thy will be done." I was
much helped and comforted.
4th. — Studied in the morning, and in the afternoon Mr.
Dawson and I rode to Morley, and lodged at Mr. John Brooks-
bank's. We had the next day a double lecture at the meeting-
house, Morley, where there was a large assembly. Mr. Daw-
son's text was, " There is none like the God of Jeshiu-un ;"
mine, " Let us consider one another, to provoke unto love and
good works." For assistance afforded to us both, we have great
reason to be thankful.
6th. — We had a meeting preparatory to the ordinance of the
Lord's supper at Morley ; after which I went to Leeds, lodged
at Mr. Hick's
7th. — Visited several friends at Leeds, discoursed with them
about the concerns of their souls, and joined with them in
prayer.
8th. — Dined with Dr. Whitaker, and discoursed about some
unhappy differences among good people.
9tli. — Rode to Alverthorp, where I was much assisted in
prayer and preaching. On my return home, I found all well
after this long absence. Blessed be the name of the Lord.
11th. — Preached at John Butterworth's of Warley, where
God brought many people to hear me, and gave my soul sweet
enlargement in speaking to them, and praying with them.
12th. — We had a day of fasting and prayer at James Tet-
ley's. God graciously helped me in the work, especially in
praying for the nation.
Went to Little Lever, the place of my nativity, and
preached there to a full assembly of my relations, old neigh-
bours, and friends ; God was graciously with us.
At Cockey chapel I was mercifully assisted in preach-
ing to a large audience of serious people ; and afterwards at the
house of my relation, Air. Peter Ileywood. Returning to
EXTRACTS. , 379
llochdalc, God gave us a merciful opportunity in worshipping
him at llobt. Milan's.
Travelling towards Wakefield I visited John Burhcad,
Josiah Gates, and other christian brethren, and lodged at Mr.
Jenkinson's, Horbury. The next day, after preaching at Al-
verthorp, rode towards York. In that city, I waited on Lord
Clifford and Lord Fairfax, lodging at night with Sir John
Hewley. Preached at Lady Watson's and spent the evening
at Lady Hewet's. God dealt graciously with me. The next
day I visited many friends, and dined at Sir John Hewley's,
with Lord Clifford, Sir Gilbert Gerherd, Sir John Brook, and
others. The morning after I was called upon to preach in
Lady Hewley's room. God mercifully assisted me and gave
me freedom. His mercies are infinite !
1680.
Jan. 2nd, Lord's day.-^ — Was sweetly comforted in praying
and preaching. I attempted to describe the fruits which the
Lord expects from his vineyard ; and, blessed be his name, he
was pleased to make it a good day.
1 2th. — Mr. Dawson, several others, and I, kept a day of so-
lemn humiliation, at the house of J. K. in Wyke. God sweetly
melted my heart, and helped me in preaching from Psalm Ivi. 8,
" Thou tellest my wanderings ; put thou my tears into thy
bottle ; are they not in thy book ?''''
I'ith. — Rode to Bingley, preached at Josh. Walker's at
Rushwortli-hall, on Psalm cxix. 158, " I beheld the transgres-
sors and was grieved, because they kept not thy Avord." A
full assembly. Had good assistance. In the evening several
brethren prayed : it was a good season.
14th. — Called on Mrs. Ferrand, of Bingley, discoursed and
prayed with her. Conversed with another at Cottingley under
trouble of mind. Called on Mr. Joseph Lister, and returned
home in safety, though it was a very stormy day.
16th. — We had a day of fasting and prayer at my house, on
account of M. 11. My heart was sweetly melted while Mr.
Dawson was employed.
17th. — Studied closely, and was much assisted, but not so
comfortable in prayer with my wife and servant, as at other
times.
18th. — Preached at Kipping, and was graciously helped
through the day's work.
19th. — Attended the funeral of that gracious young woman,
Grace Bastow, at Halifax. j\[r. Hook preached.
22nd. — Went to Sower by, and preached at S tubbings ; my
380 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
God graciously assisting me ; blessed be his holy name ; it was
a good day.
25th, Lord's day. — We assembled for divine worship at W.
Clay's, and were exceedingly thronged, yet God was with us of
a truth.
2Cth. — We had a day of fasting and prayer at A^^ Clay's,
on account of the gloomy aspect of public affairs. There were
many present, and what a heart-melting day was it unto us !
28th. — Rode to Captain Hodgson's, where we had a day of
fasting and prayer. God wonderfully assisted those who were
employed in wrestling with him in behalf of the nation.
30th. — Was greatly assisted in my studies, though somewhat
interrupted by company. That pious Christian, ]\Ir. Joseph
Lister, paid us a visit.
My Lord Rutherford did me the honour to call upon
me. We spent most of the afternoon together, I hope, to
mutual edification. I returned to my chamber in the evening,
where it pleased God to afford me his gracious help in my studies.
Lord's day, I preached at Alverthorpe, and was merci-
fully assisted in every part of the work.
Friday, we had a solemn day of fasting and prayer, pre-
paratory to the Lord's supper. It pleased the Almighty to
favour us with tokens of his gracious presence ; my own heart
was deeply affected in prayer and preaching.
jNIonday, much interrupted in my studies by visitors.
Have to complain of dullness and stupidity of mind. Lord, pity
and pardon me.
Tuesday, spent about six hours in secret prayer and
meditation, and am unable to express what I then experienced.
O what a season of humiliation and comfort was it to my poor
soul ! Blessed be the holy name of my gracious God for ever.
We had a private fast at James Halstead's, which was
to us a time of spiritual refreshment from the presence of the
Lord. ]\Iy heart was deeply affected while Mr. Joseph Lister,
of Kipping, prayed.
Thursday, I preached to a large assembly at Sam. Hop-
kinson's, from these words, " Ahnost thou persuadest me to be a
Christian. " T trust, God was with us of a truth, and that some
good was done among us.
Preached to a full assembly at Mr. Leech's, Bingley,
from the precious declaration of our Redeemer, " Him that
cometh unto me, I will in no wise cast out." It was a refresh-
ing season to myself, and, I hope, to many others.
We had a large assembly at JMr. John Butterworth's,
Warlcy, where I spent about foiu- hours in prayer and preach-
EXTllACTS. 381
ing, with great pleasure and enlargement of heart ; blessed be
the Father of mercies. The words dwelt upon were, " Which
of you intending to build a city, or a tower, sitteth not down
first, and counteth the cost 'f It was a merciful season indeed.
Lord's day was a sweet day to my soul. It pleased God
to melt my heart exceedingly in pleading with him in behalf
of the nation.
Preached at Warley to a very large assembly, many of
whom seemed to be deeply affected. O that I may be thankful
for the mercies poured upon us at that happy season !
Monday afternoon, we spent six hours in prayer. Seven
young men were called to the exercise, and were much assisted.
1682.
June 28th. — Having performed my closet exercises, and spent
some time in studying, preparatory to my journey, I set my
family in order and committed them to God in prayer. After
dinner I set forward for Lancashire, and as I rode over Black-
stone Edge I propounded four subjects for meditation ; but
could only go over the two former — What God hath done for
me since I first came that road ? — What requital I had made F
— What God calls for me to do ? — What he calls me to suffer,
and how ? God graciously helped me. I lodged at R. Milne''s,
at Rochdale.
29th. — Rose early and God affected my heart very sensibly
in secret prayer. O what a melting season it was ! In the
forenoon I gathered Lady Hewit's rents. Dined at R. M's,
and after four o"'clock set out towards Manchester. Here I
found brother Wilson indisposed, and was helped to pray
for him.
30th. — God enlarged my heart in prayer, and graciously as-
sisted me. Visited Mr. Tilsley, went to ISIr. Newcomers and re-
ceived the Lord''s supper at his hands, when God gave pledges
of his love : blessed be his name. In the afternoon, rode to
Blakeley, and preached to a full company at widow Traverses
house. Came back to Manchester ; blessed be my good God.
July 1st. — In the morning, rose at four o'clock, and after read-
ing four chapters, prayed, and went with sister Hilton to Mr.
Barlow's, and preached to a considerable company on Micah v. 5.
God deeply aflected my heart in prayer for the church, having
heard bad news. I visited some, and then travelled. C ailed
on ]\Ir. Sargeant at Stand, brother Colburn's at Radcliffe
Bridge, and lodged at T. Woofman's at Darcey Lever. Blessed
be God.
382 LIFE OF THE UEV. O. TIEYWOOD.
2nd. — I was lielped in prayer, went to Cockcy chapel and
preached on 2 Tim. iii. 5. God graciously enlarged my heart
in his work. Dined at I^awrence Lomax's and at night went to
brother Colburn's, where God assisted me in repeating my ser-
mon and praying with a great number of persons.
3rd. — Early in the morning, God helped in prayer in my
chamber, and in the family. Then I set forwards to liolton,
called at my father's house in Little Lever, and arrived at
Eolton at twelve o'clock. Heard Mr. Boardman preach in the
cliurch. Visited Mr. Lever, my dear child in Christ. Alice
('rompton came to me in bitterness of soul, on whom God had
wrought by my ministry ; I discoursed and prayed with her.
Lodged at brother Okey's ; blessed be my good God.
4th. — In my chamber this morning I met with more than
ordinary incomes of grace, and out-goings of heart to God.
Then I had some conversation with Mr. Lever. Afterwards
came to Darcey Lever, and preached a funeral sermon at Thos.
Woofman's, for a daughter of cousin Alice Greenhalgh on
Micah vi. 7. God graciously helped. At night I repeated it
to a full company. Despatched other business, and lodged
there safely.
5th. — God helped me betimes in prayer and reading my
chapters. Spent the forenoon with my sister Esther. Towards
eleven o'clock rode to Breightmet and preached a funeral sermon
for Ann Scolcroft on Rev. xxii. 14. God graciously assisted.
Lodged at Cousin Crompton's, Crompton Fold.
6th. — Was helped to pray and bless my God for many mer-
cies, especially for my dear wife who was born in this house.
After family prayer, I rode to Little Lever, discoursed and
prayed with my sister's daughter, who is' married and going to
live in my father's house to whom it belongs. Discoursed with
D. Holt, in Bury, and came to Rochdale at six o'clock.
Preached at a friend's house, and lodged at R. Milne's.
7th. — God helped me in my chamber earnestly to plead with
him, and to bless him for my journey so far and the mercies
thereof. Then we had prayer, breakfast, and conversation.
Set forward on my journey, in which God protected. Called at
Josiah Stonefield's, and arrived at home by six o'clock. Had a
large and sweet letter from my son Eliezer. Blessed be God
for returns of prayer.
Sept. 25th. — Set forward for Lancashire, accompanied by
my wife. Called at Littleborough, and lodged at Rochdale,
with P. Ogden.
26th. — In the morning was helped in prayer with my wife.
EXTRACTS. 383
We visited friends, dined, and rode to Manchester. God gra-
ciously preserved us and brought us safely to brother Hilton's,
where we found mercy. Blessed be God.
27th.— In the morning I was assisted in prayer. Visited
friends in the forenoon. After dinner walked out, and at six
o'clock preached at Martha Taylor's, on Frov. iv. 23. God
in mercy gave assistance, and Ave had a full company.
28th. — In the forenoon, visited Mr. Hooper, &c. After din-
ner rode to Booth-hall, near Blakeley, and preached on Cant.
V. 3. God helped me. I returned and repeated my sermon
at brother Hilton's. Blessed be God.
29th. — In the morning my wife and I took our journey to
J. Leach's, at Newton, where I preached to a good company.
Dined and came back to Manchester. Visited Mr. Scolfield,
and then preached at Mr. Barlow's from seven o'clock till nine,
on Isa. xl. 31. God appeared for me: blessed be his name.
30th. — In the morning we committed our concerns to God,
and visited friends in Manchester. After dinner my wife and
I set out for Cockey-Moor. Met with a drunken man in Stand-
Lane, who threatened us ; but God in mercy protected us. We
came to Ratcliffe Bridge and lodged at Lawrence Lomax's.
Oct. 1st. — Preached at Cockey chapel all day, on Gal. i. 4.
God helped me in prayer and preaching. There was a very
numerous assembly. Met covisin N. Heywood and his mother.
Found mercy all day. Repeated at night at Lawrence Lomax's
to a house full of people, and lodged there. Blessed, blessed be
my God.
2nd. — God graciously helped me in the morning to plead
for the church, and made it a good day. I went to Bolton and
heard the lecture. Met with cousin Bradshaw, discoursed with
him about my sons, and had encouragement. Conversed and
prayed with E. Crompton. At night repeated to a house full
at brother Okey's, where we lodged.
3rd. — In the morning God assisted. Then got ready, and
after family prayer, departed. Called on my sister Esther, dis-
coursed and prayed with her and sister Heywood. Rode to
my father's house, where James Lomax now lives. Preached
to a full assembly on Zeph. ii. 3. God afterwards helped in
despatching business. Received rents and returned to Bolton.
4th. — After prayer and breakfast we took leave, and set out
on our journey. Called and dined at cousin J. Crompton's, at
Breightmet. Set forward and called on Mrs. Gregg, Bridge-
hall. Came to Mrs. Hallow's, near Rochdale ; lodged there and
much mercy. Blessed be God.
5th. — In the morning God graciously met my heart in prayer
384 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEY WOOD.
witli my wife. After family worship set myself to spend some
time in secret prayer before dinner. O what a melting season
it was ! Blessed be my God. After dinner rode to Mr.
Ogden's, and preached there at night to a full company, on Prov.
vi. 23. God wonderfully helped. We lodged there.
6th. — After closet and family dvities, I and my wife came
forwards. God preserved in and from danger. We called at
Miss Stead's. Came home and found all well.^ Blessed be
God. Several friends came to welcome us home.
The Warrant, by mrtue whereof Mr. Hardcastle* was taken
at Shadwell, ivith twenty-four more, he for preaching, they
for hearing.
To all Bailiffs, Constables, and other his Majesty's Of-
ficers, especially to John Aneyard, and Matthew Wilkinson.
Com. Ebor. \ Whereas we are credibly informed that divers
West Rid. j Sectarians and other disloyal persons, do often-
times in great numbers, to the terror of the king's liege people,
riotously, seditiously, and impudently meet in divers places,
within the said Riding at unlawful assemblies and conventicles,
under colour and pretence of exercise of religion, in other man-
ner than is allowed by the liturgy and practice of the Church
of England ; which meetings they are the more encouraged to
hold, by the wilful neglect and carelessness of the constables,
aud other officers in the said Riding to suppress the same, in
which conventicles under colour of preaching, divers schismati-
cal and nonconformist clerks, and other dangerous and disloyal
persons do traduce and revile the king, and the church afore-
said, and endeavour by such means to disaff'ect the people to
the government, and as far as in them lies consequently to dis-
turb the king's peace, and turmoil the nation in new combus-
tions and confusions, which said conventicles are notorious, and
in those parts in contempt of the government are notoriously
held. These are therefore in his Majesty's name to will and
require you and every of you, taking with you such assistants
as you shall think fit from time to time, to prohibit and dis-
charge the said conventicles, and unlawful assemblies, and at
all times to apprehend and seize the persons in the said meet-
ings, and to carry them before two of his Majesty's Justices of
• See pages 114 and 2r)3,
SOIJLOQUIKS. 385
tlie peace for the said Hiding, to be prosecuted against accord-
ing to law, and hereof fail not at your peril.
Given under our hands and seals the 22nd of May, in the
17th year of his Majesty's reign.
JOHN ARMITAGE. FRAN. WHITE.
JOHN KAY. J. N.
Many of Mr. Heywood's Soliloquies were composed on various
events of his life, and are so interwoven with his history that
they have necessarily been inserted in tlie preceding memoirs.
Others relate more generally to his religious experience, and
may be read with interest by Christians as descriptive of those
spiritual feelings common to all the regenerated family of God.
" As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to
man.'" The relation and comparison of religious experience
have often proved an effectual means of encouraging weak be-
lievers, instructing young converts, and promoting the general
welfare of souls. The spiritual experience of David as recorded
in the book of Psalms, has been of incalculable benefit to the
church of God in every succeeding age, and many who are now
on their pilgrimage to the heavenly Jerusalem are thankful for
what the inspired Psalmist has declared of the " things God
had done for his soul." One end of christian biography, and
that t-jo not the least important, is, that the present and future
race of spiritual combatants may become acquainted with the
conflicts of those who are now inheriting the promises, and with
the means by which they " camie off more than conquerors.*"
The following extracts from the remainder of Mr. HeywoocFs
soliloquies, will therefore no doubt be acceptable to the pious
reader.
The remarks inserted by Mr. Heywood on a blank leaf of the
volume containing his soliloquies, will form a suitable introduc-
tion to the extracts. " I intend to write in this book some
private soliloquies and ejaculations, wherev/ith my soul hath been
very much delighted under the various pressures and burdens
which have frequently encumbered m.e, and sat heavy on my
spirits. I have experienced this divine act of meditation and
self-argumentation to be the most sovereign way to dispel the
VOL. I. 2 C
38(> MIK or THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
clouds of distempering tlioughts from my mind, or to remove
my backwardness to duties, or advance my thoughts heaven-
wards, or mortify my affections of a worldly and sinful natui'c.
It is begun on the 10th of i\Iay, 1653;'
SOLILOQUY I.
Advance thyself now, O my soul, be thou thyself and act a
spirit's part. Reflect upon, return into thyself, and see how
things go there. Hath God given thee these rational faculties
and a self-discoursing power, and shall not these be exercised ?
Begin to confer with thy own heart, and thou shalt not want
matter. Let the method be what it will, so that thou mayest
profit thyself and gain advantage over thy spiritual foes. Look
within thee and without thee, look below thee and above thee,
and if there be not matter of meditation then I shall wonder.
But surely if thou art not extremely wanting to thyself, this
spiritual exercise will bring a return of full, new, and heart-
refi'eshing supplies. O my soul, let me now stimulate thee to
this course, whilst I charge thee not to be sluggish in it. Let
not trivial matters interrupt thee, but constantly and conscien-
tiously exercise thyself therein. 1 solemnly require thee, thou
deceitful heart, do not here beguile me, do not plead excuses,
do not make delays, but begin in good earnest ; it is a business
of great concern, and I adjure and command thee by the autho-
rity God hath given me over thee, to comply with the duty and
come and act thy part. Loiter not in unprofitable formality or
a vain offer, like the son that said, " I go, sir, and went not."
I charge thee, my depraved and backward heart, in the name of
God, and upon thy allegiance to thy dread Sovereign, to deal
impartially with thyself, to arraign thyself at the bar of con-
science, and to imitate, as m.uch as may be, God's calling sin-
ners to account at the general assizes. Keep back nothing now
which shall then be revealed. Fear not to know the worst ;
it is better to know it Iiere by thy own voluntary discovery,
than to have such things brought up then, as thou wouldst give
all the world to be concealed, if it were possible ; it must be
better to shame thyself here, where thou mayest be restored,
than to be ashamed hereafter without remedy. O the benefit
thou mayest get by communing with thy own heart ! Hereby
thou mayest come to know more of its secret wanderings, wind-
ings, and iniquitous turnings. Thou mayest take notice of thy
progress in thy journey, of the decaying and rising of thy sen-
sual desires, and of the revival of grace. Thou mayest know
more of the method of Satan and the mystery of iniquity. Thy
soliloquit:s, 587
heart "may be blessed with suitable dispositions, as tliou seest
occasion, to mourn when thou dost not find things well and
wisely conducted, and to rejoice when thou liast cause. Sure I
am, this secret soul-soliloquy will prove a gainful trade, a sweet
delicious feast, and a solemn delightful exercise, that will exhi-
larate thy spirits better than wine. Try this course, O my
soul, and observe if it be not good for thee. See if thy graces
do not increase by it, the power of thy sins diminish, and thy
duties be better discharged. See if thou dost not enjoy more
communion with God, and if others do not observe thy face to
shine and thy ways to be more regular, by frequent conversing
with God and thyself. By this means thou wilt spend thy days
with more solace and delight, and live as in a little corner of
heaven. Store up sweet and soul-refreshing comforts against
an evil day. Inure thyself to exercise thy graces alone, and if
God deprive thee of his saints, thou mayest enjoy the fellowship
of God here, and think it no strange thing to remove to his im-
mediate presence at death.
II.
Come, my soul, and let me feel which way thy pulse beats.
Is it not heavenwards ? and shouldst tliru not be heavenly-
minded ? See what cause thou hast to mind thy G(td and au
eternal state. Canst thou bring to thy recollection no heart-
raising considerations to elevate thee heavenwards ? What
sayest thou ? Are there no vestiges of divine distinguishing
providences left upon thee ? Are there no impressions of free
grace experienced, fresh within thee ? Then tliou art much out
of frame. Dost thou not find thyself lost in a labyrinth of
God's mercies ? Dost thou not feel thyself transported by an
angelical admiration of God's bounty and compassion, and art
thou not plunged into the depths of self-condemning indigna-
tion to see thy strange requitals ? O that God should do
so much for thee, and that thou shouldst do so much against
him ! as if thou wouldst strive with God, to see whether his
loving-kindness or thy rebellion shall have the victory ! Who
but a churlish Nabal would be so ungrateful a requiter ? He
hath made thee ; doth not that deserve thy homage ? He hath
kept thee from thy birth to the present moment ; doth not that
require some dutiful obedience ? Ah, but thy Saviour hath
died for thee and redeemed thee, without which thou hadst
been lost for ever I Doth not that merit a thankful remem-
brance ? He did not think his dearest heart's blood too dear
for thee, and wilt thou think thy cordial thoughts too dear for
him ? Suppose the Lord had cast thee into hell, thou wouldst
have roared out under thy pangs, and couldyt not forget God's
2 C 2
388 LIFE or Tiir. t.y.y. o. iieywood.
hand of justice ; but now the Lord hath redeemed thee, and
bestowed on thee many privileges, why shouldst thou forget his
strong arm of mercy ? Poor soul, hast thou any thing to mind
but thy God ? Is there any thing worth thinking of besides
thy treasure ?
Tell me, O my soul, hast thou not sometimes upon the deli-
berate comparison of transitory vanities, (gilded over with the
fairest gloss of happiness) with the bare naked excellence of
soul-refreshing enlargements, which thou hast sometimes enjoyed
from God ; hast thou not, I say, preferred this latter with its
roughness, before the former with its attractions ? Hast thou
not infinitely preferred the pleasures of grace before the plea-
sures of the world ? and wilt thou now return to the beggarly
and weak elen:ients of the world ? Wilt thou now go and coun-
teract thy ov.n persuasions by thy practices ? Nay, nay, my
soul, exchange not gold for glass, leave not the tried substance
for the shadow ; but come along, I'll lead thee by the hand,
and let thee take a glance of what thou canst not fully know
because of thy carnality. Or rather, take a full survey of out-
ward sensible favours ; ask thy outward man, and it will tell
thee, ask thy senses, and they will testify of multitudes of ten-
der mercies. Propound some queries to thyself, and see what
answer a well informed, rectified, and sanctified understanding
will dictate upon the right discovery of thy present state. But,
O my soul, beware of the ticklings of pride, arrogance, or vain-
glory. Poor creature, tell me now what art thou ? A creature
of God's making, the workmanship of the great and infinite
God, the same God that made the holy angels and highest
heavens ! But what creature art thou ? A man ; that is a
mercy, God might have made thee a brute. But thou art a
man, endowed with a living soul cajiable of felicity ; a rational
and intelligent man ; God might have made thee a fool, an
idiot to be scorned, derided and mocked by all ! But what sort
of man art thou ? A Christian, one born within the pale of the
visible church ! Thou mightest have been born among the
rude Indians or savage Turks, and been either a gross idolater,
to have adored the creature instead of the Creator, yea, to have
worshipped the devil himself; or have lived in a popish coun-
try : and what hopes can there be of salvation where means are
wanting ? God hath brought thee up all thy days at the feet
of Gamaliel, where light hath shone round thee as in a little
Goshen, yea, it hath shone into thee which is best of all !
Thou art a Christian, not nominally only but really, I feel per-
suaded. Here stand gazing up into heaven, not into thyself:
it was God's own work, and is marvellous in my eyes ! But
SOLILOQUIES. 389
what kiud of Christian art thou ? Not of an inferior rank but a
teaching Christian — a minister of the gospel. O what riches
of grace are here ! For whom hath God dune all these observ-
able things ? Not for a prince, nor one descended of noble blood,
nor for a subtle politician, eminent scholar, critical linguist,
acute philosopher, profound mathematician, or learned divine ;
no, no, the Lord hath not bestowed these mercies on any such
accounts ; yet God hath made choice of thee, and made use of
thee, yea, hath accounted thee faithful to bear his message to a
wicked world. O w^hat an infinite ocean of mercy is this !
"Were there not many thousands in England of more admirable
natural abilities and acquired learning, some of whom were not
permitted to enter upon these sacred studies, and so are inca-
pable of being employed in the Lord's vineyard. Others are
commissioned outwardly and qualified excellently with all ex-
ternal endowments, yet answer net to their call ; instead of
being faithfvd labourers they are fruitless loiterers, are wretch-
edly profane, and the ringleaders in every scene of iniquity,
instead of leading their people heavenwards. But I see grace
is free, and that alone hath made the difference. Should not
God then have all the praise ? And how canst thou express
his praise more than in a due and diligent minding of thy God,
waiting upon him, walking with him, and v/orking for him ?
in.
Raise up thyself, O my soul, and aspire in thy desires to-
wards the highest heavens. Mount up like flames of fire with
heat and height of zeal and love towards the chief good. What
else can content and satisfy thee but thy God ? Will creatures
do it ? O no. Dost thou not behold a vanity and vexatious
quality in whatever is presented to thee? The heaven-born
soul will overlook inferior objects, and, if it be itself, will tram-
ple under foot whatever is under the sun. Was my seraphic
soul created for these things below ? Can its desires be ter-
mniated on inferior objects ? Was it shaped of the earth as
my body, and must it return to the earth again ? No, no, it
comes from God, and to God must return or never be content.
The misery of hell consists in exclusion from the chief good,
and the souls in that land of darkness can never be satisfied.
O my soul, where art thou but as in a present hell whilst separated
from God ? Thou art like little silly birds that wander from
their nests, and lose themselves in woods and groves. Art
thou not like Noah's dove that could not find a place adapted
for a constant residence ? or like a little rivulet that is left be-
hind the proud, tempestuous tide, that runs and slides along
390 LIFE Ol' THE REV. (.). HEYWOOD.
the even sands, and cannot rest till it returns again to be swal-
lowed up in tile mighty ocean P O my soul, be not thou a
willing prisoner, but make trial whilst thy fetters are on thee,
to soar aloft on the wings of faith and love ; whilst on the
stormy deep, put thyself forward towards the haven, and thou
shalt find a happy gale of the spirit of grace to drive thee hea-
venwards. I bid thee not, my soul, make too much haste, o\*
seek to break open the prison door, or pull down the wall, only
look with longing expectation from the window God hath
opened for thee. If thou art not wanting to thyself, thou mayest
look through, by the eye of faith, towards the new Jerusalem
which is above ; as Daniel once did. When God sees good to
set tlice at liberty he will come luito thee, as to Peter, and
strike off thy bolts, and gently open the gates and let thee out.
Till then, labour to enjoy the presence of thy God, and employ
thyself in acts of holiness till thou art taken hence and seen
no more.
IV.
AVhat a wretched life do I, poor creature, lead, who am
tormented between hope and fear, suspended betwixt heaven
and hell, and tortiu-ed between two thieves that come to steal
my comforts from me — my oAvn corruptions and Satan's temp-
tations. Alas, I am almost weary of my life, my soul is giving
up the ghost. O that I could say, " it is finished !'"' my sins
finished, my sorrows finished, my work finished, my woe
finished, niy life finished ; I would bid farewell to all sinful
objects, m.y soul would be free from all coi-poreal organs, and I
would take my leave of all carnal things, those enemies to God
and destroyers of my desirable soul-comforts. " O that I had
v.'ings like a dove ! for then would I fly away and be at rest,"
from all molesting cares, and hide myself from my enchanting
enemies. JMethiuks I live as on a field of battle, where I hear
the terrible noise of combatants, and clashing of warlike wea-
pons. IMethinks my darling soul stands just at the mouth of a
destructive cannon, ready to be shattered to pieces every mo-
ment. x\h ! how often doth my soul withdraw and leave my
God, which makes him lade his face and bend his bow to shoot
at me as an enemy ; and though sometimes I cast down my
arms and cry for mercy, yet I break my covenant with him and
cast his laws behind my back. i\iy greatest enemies are within,
and these heart-wars and soul-disscntions are my greatest woes ;
if I were free from them, my soul would be serene and quiet.
]\iethinks my heart is like Abraham's house, that had a Sarah
and a Hagar in it, who could not well agree ; an Isaac and Ish-
fiiael, who thwarted and contradicted each other. O my soul,
SOLILOQUIES. 391
liow long must thou be forced to hear tJic sound of the trumpet
and the alarm of war ? ]Must thou always see these sworn ad-
versaries running upon and struggling with each other ? The
word of God doth quickly answer me, that the flesh and spirit
will thus lust against each other, while we have bodies of flesh
and regenerated souls united. It is so in thee, my soul, and it
is thy happiness it is so and no worse. Thou thinkcst thou hast
gTeat cause to complain, but thou hast also infinite cause to bless
thy God for these heart-battles which are evidences of regene-
ration, means of thy deeper humiliation, and occasions of the
manifestation of God's goodness, and wisdom, and power. O
my soul, thou art abundantly indebted to free grace for these
tokens of undeserved love, that the strong man armed does not
keep secure possession, that God hath infused a living principle
within thee, to incline thee towards heaven as thy nature doth
towards hell. O never be at rest till corruptions have received
their final doom ; be not at truce or peace with any darling sin,
for thou losest most ground when thou art parleying with the
enemy ; when thou art tampering with liim, he leads thee cap-
tive. Come, my soul, be valiant for the truth, put on the whole
armour of God, and at last thou shalt prevail against thy foes,
and have an everlasting triumph.
V.
O sad, afflicted, and agitated soul ! Art thou so enamoured
with the world as to make thee loth to leave it ? Wliat plea-
sure canst thou take in feuds and battles ? Is not peace better
than war? Is it not far better to be at liome, under thy father"' !i
safe and succouring- winffs, free from all intestine disturbanceti
and foreign invasions, than to be travelling thy journey,
sometimes wet and battered with wind and weather of severe
afflictions, and at other times overcome with the sultriness of a
prosperous condition .'* One would think, O my degenerate
soul, there would not be so much difficulty to persuade thee
freely to lay down this house of clay. But I feel thou art too
carnal and corrupt, and, like an angry child, unwilling to go to
bed. It is true thou canst not leave it but when thy time is
come ; but shouldst thou not die daily, and be realizing death as
if it were already at the door, as who knov.^s but it is ? Shouldst
thou not always be prepared to die ? Shouldst thou not still
carry thy life in thy hand, because tliou art not at thy own dis-
posal.'* Thou art at the disposal of him who will not give thee
an account of his proceedings ; he will not gratify thee so much
as to let thee knov/ the length of thy days, or give thee a lease
of thy life, lest it sliould breed pi-esiunption and nourish thy
392 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYAVOOI).
security. Shouldst thou not tlierefore be trimming tliy lamp,
girding thy loins, standing on thy watch, and be ready when-
ever it shall please God to call ? Argue thyself into a dying
posture. ' Tis a matter of great moment to pass into eternity,
and all a man's time from the cradle to the grave, were it
.stretched out to the length of the antediluvian patriarchs'" lives,
would be little enough to be employed in preparation for it.
The happiness or misery of this precious and immortal soul
depends upon the well or ill improvement of this inch of time.
Well then, O my soul, if thy pilgrimage in this tabernacle of
clay is spent in the enjoyment of God, O what a double heaven
wilt thou have hereafter !
VI.
Sometimes I can remember, that through consciousness of my
duty and sense of necessity, I have beeen drawn to my knees,
when at the first my heart was dull, frozen, and .stupid ; but
ere I was aware, I have been greatly enlarged, and have been
carried away by the wings of the Spirit as in the chariot of
Amminadib. But now v/oe is me ! I felt a strong inclination,
(as I thought) to engage in duty, and perceived some move-
iifients of a spirit of grace and supplication ; but I sensibly dis-
cerned the withdrawing , of my God by being left to sad, dis-
tracting, and disturbing thoughts. Discover to me, dear and
gracious God, what is the cause of thy contending thus with
me. I know it must be just, and I do first acquit thee before
I do expostulate. Is it because I lie under the guilt of some
fresh committed sin, or some omitted duty ? Is it because at
other times I did not watch over my own heart, but gave too
much sway to my extravagant affections, and freely entertained
wandering thoughts, and now thou wilt punish one sin by ano-
ther, and make my sin, my judgment ? O my soul, what mer-
cies iiast thou sinned against, and what miseries art thou now
involved in ! Had any one ever more cause to be humbled,
and was ever any one less humbled ? Did ever mercy and
folly meet in such degrees in any soul ? Alas, dost thou get
any good in thus departing from thy God ? Art thou not un-
done without him, and is there not necessity to approach him ?
Come then, up and be doing, be resolved in the case, and trifle
not about things of such moment. Thou must be serious about
it, speak to thy heart and ask it, if it v/ili not practise what is
so much for its good. If it refuse, provoke it to it ; if it draw
back urge it on ; if it linger, like Lot in Sodom, hasten it for-
ward, let it not stay, nor make delays, nor plead excuses. The
longer thou dcferrest this duty the more dangei-ous is thy state.
Fall on tljy knees this morning, see what God will give thee,
SOLILOQUIES. 393
and O do thou give thyself, thy heart, thy hand, thy head, thy
all to God.
VII.
O my soul, thou hast been playing the prodigal, and grown
exceedingly sensual and grovelling ; thou hast been indolent in
.seeking after things above, and hast been thinking to take up
thy rest in things below. Dost thou not hear the voice of God,
saying, " Arise ye, and depart ; for this is not your rest .''"
What satisfaction hast thou gained from creatures, as distinct
from the Creator ? Have not the most hopeful ways to settle
and compose thyself proved very ineffectual ? God bids thee
" cease from man, whose breath is in his nostrils ;" and as to
worldly means they have proved the greatest disturbers of thy
peace. Are not the church's troubles many and likely to be
more .'' Are not thy own troubles many and likely to increase .?
Art thou not molested from without and from within ? Art
thou not troubled to see the work of God go on so slowly, and
the work of man to be so successful ? Doth it not trouble thee
to see the afflictions of Joseph and the scattered stones of Jeru-
salem ? Doth it not trouble thee to see the child of Reforma-
tion in the birth, and yet no strength to bring forth ? Doth it
not trouble thee to see the Lord of life and glory so little re-
garded, and to hear the name of God lamentably blasphemed ?
Doth it not trouble thee to see so few converted, and so many
hardened by the means of grace ? to see so many backslide and
quite desert the right paths of religion P to see so many loathe
the purest and plainest truths and follow after fables ? Doth it
not trouble thee to see so many precious saints grow cold and
dull, and quite relinquish their first love ? Doth it not trouble
thee to see saints look so shyly one upon another, as if they
were not any thing related, because they differ in their judg-
ments ? Do not the wicked rejoice in their contentions, and
the weak take just offence ? Doth it not trouble thee that all
these things do trouble thee no more "^ If thou dost look no
farther than thyself, there will appear a sea of personal troubles.
Art thou not often troubled that thou art not better qualified
for thy work, and that it is no more successful, that sinners are
not called and converted, and that saints are not comforted and
confirmed ? Do not thy bowels yearn over poor ignorant, hard-
hearted people, and for some wicked and wretclied souls that
know not their riglit hands from their left in spiritual things .''
Do not these things beat up a march for the removal of tliy
pitched tent ? O my soul, metliinks these things should shame
thee out of thy security, and provoke thee to industry. Alas,
my soul, there arc many things amiss in thee that ought to be
394 LIFE OF THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
amended, many things are perishing that should be repaired,
many graces dying that should be recruited, and many lusts
reviving that should be mortified. Surely thy work is great,
thy time short, and thy strength small ; therefore apply to the
business with diligence. Be serious in matters of eternity, be
resolute for God in his work, be upright with God in his ways,
and let all thy actions testify, thou miudest thy everlasting in-
terests more than thy transitory pleasures. Let graces have
their perfect work, Christ alone his due esteem, and whatever
is against him be perfectly hated in thy breast: at last thy glory
shall make amends for all thy misery.
VIII.
How long is it, O my soul, since thou didst delightfully enjoy
the presence of thy God in secret? Time hath been, when there
was sweet intercourse of love between thy God and thee, when
thy heart was melted with tenderness and affection. Time hath
been, when the Lord gave thee some special testimonies of his
unchangeable love and let thee see thy interest in himself, when
he transported thee with the sacred communications of his Spi-
rit, so that thou hast been loth to part with divine employments.
But of late there hath been a great strangeness betwixt thee
and God, private duties and public exercises have dwindled
mostly into outward forms. Will not Nadab and Abihu tell
thee that the fire of God's anger is hottest near the altar ?
Art thou so much exercised in public employments and yet
neglectest private and secret humiliation ? Dost thou think the
one will obtain ■a dispensation for the neglect of the other .''
Because thou art exercised much publicly, shouldst thou not so
much the more prepare in private .'* Thou hast said, (and dost
thou not believe thyself.'^) that a man is so far a Christian, as
he is one in secret between God and his own soul, and that
secret acts of religion are precious tokens of sincerity. Thou
mayest do much before men, pray zealously, preach affectionately,
and take much pains to divide the word of God aright, and yet
all be tainted with the secret leaven of hypocrisy ; yea, if thou
dost not make conscience of private as well as public duties,
thy ends are very liable to suspicion, thy case dangerous, and
thy heart too, too deceitful. Thou mayest study hard to ob-
tain human accomplishments, preach in the best manner thou
canst to gain credit v.-ith men, and pray with fluent expressions
to be heard of men, and all this for thy maintenance ; but if
that be all, alas, pity thyself, and lay thy state to heart. AVhy
dost thou make others believe thou enjo3'cst something of God
in secret, if it be not so .'' Doth not God scan all thy ways and
SOLILOQUIES. 395.
know whether things be as they seem ? True, mdeed, thou
mayest cast dust before the eyes of the most eminent saints and
make them believe thou art a close walking Christian, and
yet remain a licentious atheist in thy closet. God cannot be
mocked as men may, nor doth he see as man seeth. Fair words
and a false heart will not pass current in the court of heaven.
Dost thou not sometimes mention secret communion with God
before others .'' Now, where is it .'* Wilt thou lie to the Lord,
and horribly profane his sacred name .'' Nay, my soul, do not
so wickedly. Art thou not ashamed that others should think
better of thee than thou art "^ Ah, blush when thou dost men-
tion a soul's sweet enjoyment of God, of which thou thyself hast
so little experience. Be ashamed of thy negligence in the
performance of duties, or thy ready entertainment of strange
distracting thoughts therein. Of all the burdens that oppress
me, this hard and stupid heart is the greatest load, and is the
most dangei'ous, except the Lord work a miracle in raising
tlie dead.
IX.
Consider, O my soul, what are the actions thou shouldst per-
form as a preparation for the sabbath wliich is so near, on which
thou hopest to enjoy the gracious presence of thy God. Thou
art to preach to God's people to-morrow, preach to thyself to-
day. God hath appointed thee to dispense the mysteries of the
gospel to others, and do not those mysteries concern tliyself as
well as them '^ Wouldst thou be willing that tliy people should
be saved, and care not if thyself be damned 't Is not heaven
large enough for all "^ Art thou so mad as to provide a rich
feast, though served up in mean dishes, and to invite others to
eat thereof, and wilt thou thyself famish and pine away "^ Will
not the feast prove delightful to thy taste and refreshing to thy-
self .^ Mayest thou not then with greater confidence invite thy
people to partake abundantly of this spiritual provision, and tell
them how good and wholesome it is from thy own experience "^
The celestial bread of this feast, this divine manna that de-
scends from heaven, is enough to feed all true Israelites for
ever. If any want, it is not through deficiency in the treasure,
but the insufficiency of the conveyers to poor needy souls. If
any die by thirst, it is not that there is a want of the water of
life, the fountain is full and overflowing, but because, either with
Hagar, men want light to discover the v/ell, or, with the woman
of Samaria, they want a bucket to draw with. Well, my soul,
seeing there is enough, get thy share ; thy people will have none
the less but more. Wilt thou not then speak as having been
taught those saving truths thou delivercst.^ "NA'hen thou do^t
396 I,ll-K OF THE llEV. (). HEYWOOD.
mention truths indifferently and heedlessly as if thou gavest not
credit to them thyself, how canst thou believe that others will em-
brace them ? Surely if thou failest in this, thou failest in thy
duty. ~ Is this course any more than the necessary duty of a
Christian? and dost thou cease to be a Christian when thou dost
begin to be a minister? God forbid. Dost thou not sometimes
instruct the people that their duty, when they have heard the
word, is to ruminate upon it ; and shovildst not thou do so much
the more, seeing there is the concurrence both of thy general and
particular calling .''
X.
O my soul, hast thou not much to do in preparation for the
sabbath .'' Thou art to pray on behalf both of thyself and peo-
ple to-morrow. Go to thy God, lie low before him, commence
thy suit, and wrest a blessing from his hands by importunity.
Thou hast often met with God's presence in his work, but doth
that engage him in thy favovir so that he should not act freely .''
He hath never left thee to thyself, but doth that evince either
that thy piety or abilities are the stronger ? or that, if God
should leave thee, thou wilt be able to go on as successfully as
before .'' No, no, if he hath been thy helper, thou art the more
beholden to free grace. O praise him for these former supplies
of his grace, prize at a higher rate the influences of his Spirit,
admire him for those sweet tokens of love sent in public ordi-
nances to thee, and pray hard for his assisting and accepting
grace to-morrow. Plead promises with him, bewail thy inability
without him, wrestle for a blessing from him, and do not let
him go till thy heart be affected as a presage of future mercies.
Shouldst thou not likevvise, O my soul, put in a word for thy
people ? If God enlai'ge thee ever so much in speaking, and
give thee a wide and open door of utterance, what good will
that do except he bow the ears of the people, and give them a
door of entrance ? The rain of heaven m^ay fall and yet the
earth remain barren, the seed may be sown yet never come to
perfection, except God cause it to fructify. The spiritual hus-
bandman may dig and take much pains to little purpose ; the
plants of the Lord springing in the church will never bear
much fruit, except they be well rooted beloAv and well watered
above ; — and can mortal man do this ? If the word come to
man only by the strength of man, the power of man can easily
resist iti but if it come with God''s power it shall prevail; then
the security of man cannot abide its force, and the wilful impe-
nitency and obstinacy of man cannot counteract or withstand
it; it will prove itself the power of God unto salvation. Apply
to the throne of grace, take no denial, and God will own thy
soi.ii,OQUiES. 397
praiyers and crown tliy pains with desired success in the conver-
sion of souls.
XI.
Advance thyself once again, my soul, and mount up heaven-
wards ; up and be doing, and delight thyseli' with anticipations
of thy rest. Look upon heaven as a reality, and view thy pro-
perty therein ; survey the delights thereof, and see if all these
things will not affect thy heart witli admiration, and transport
thee with holy ecstacy beyond thyself.'' Let others dream of
golden mountains and glittering sands, and hang their hopes on
castles in the air ; yet keep thou to this orthodox truth, that
heaven is above, — that the celestial city hath foundations,
whereas the earth hath none but hangs on nothing in the air.
Do thou fix the anchor of thy hope beyond the mortal veil of
flesh, in the vast and boundless ocean of eternity. Bathe thy-
self in the rivers of pleasure, and see if it will not set thee long-
ing for full enjoyment. O my soul, what a life mightest thou
live if heaven were as much in thy thoughts as earth, if thy
mind were lifted up above this inferior world, conversing with
the Lord of life and glory. Say now, what is it thou canst de-
sire that heaven cannot afford ? If thou wouldst have a conflu-
ence of all good things, behold enough to satisfy the enlarged
desires of the most capacious mind. Whither wouldst thou
aspire .'' Canst thou be exalted higher than into the highest
room ? But mayest thou enjoy this felicity ? Yes, surely ;
God is serious in offering it, why then should I question it ?
Did God ever dissemble to obtain proselytes .'' Harbour not
such a blasphemous thought. Yes, he will give it to some, but
may I have any share therein ? Why not thou, O my soul ?
Hath he made such large and liberal promises to give a king-
dom to his flock, and why not to thee ? But I am a poor sinful,
wretched, worthless creature ? What then ? Art thou beyond
the reach of free grace .'' Canst thou think to be accepted on
thy own account ? Was ever any one admitted for his deserts,
or excluded for want of merit .'' Are not those thrust out who
come to buy heaven, and such received as come to beg entrance ?
The poor receive the gospel, which is the kingdom of heaven,
and that kingdom of heaven will receive them. Canst thou but
get to be poor in spirit, God will make thee rich in faith ; the
poorer thou art in thyself the richer in him. If poverty were
all, that I know would be dispensed with ; but I am not only
poor but a bankrupt, being many thousand talents in debt in
the book of heaven ; and dost thou think that will hinder ? Is
not he that is willing to make thee rich, able also to pay thy
debt ? Did Christ die to enrich thee and not to set thee free .''
398 LIFE OF THE REV. O, HEYWOOU.
Or dost tliou think thy debts are beyond tlie price of his infinite
satisfaction ? Are thy garments filthy ? Fear not, he hatli
change of raiment ; all he bids thee do is, to be willing to part
with thine and change them for his glorious robes ; and art
thou not desirous of that ? Ah, yes, fiiin enough long since,
God knows. IMy sins have been my burden, and shall I not
thank the hand that takes off such a load ? O my soul, wouldst
thou not have the Lord Jesus on his own terms, to be thy
Sovereign as well as Saviour, to be thy lawgiver and to rule
thee according to his -will, though against thy carnal bias ? My
soul, if thou art willing, he is very willing ; then the engage-
ment is made, and notliing now sliall part us asunder. Thou
hast the Lord firm enovigh in his word, the writings are made
in the scriptures, the debt is cancelled, the promises ratify it,
tlie oath of God seals it, and the blessed Trinity confirm it by all
their united acts for thy salvation ; the saints in heaven and
earth are legal witnesses. Hath not God wrought something
in thee above and beyond nature, and doth he not act towards
thee as if he meant to save thee ? Else, what mean those
strong convictions thou once hadst, taking thee from all thy
carnal rests.'* What mean those pangs of regeneration formerly,
and those constant warrings in thy breast against Satan .^ What
mean that fearfiilness to ofl'end God, carefulness to walk accord-
ing to his revealed will, those withdrawings of thy heart from
sublunary vanities and resting on the chief good .^ Surely these
footsteps of free grace and traces of undeserved love upon thy
Iieart, indicate more than a common work. Look on heaven as
thy own, and rejoice therein as thy peculiar portion. Will
not the heir of an estate be delighted with the consideration of
what he shall hereafter enjoy .' And wilt not thou, O my soul,
delight thyself in heaven though at some distance "^ Advance
thyself and soar heavenwards in panting ejaculations.
XII.
Thou hast now been, my soul, to visit a dear friend on a
sick bed, and hast delighted thyself in holy conference about
matters of gi'eat concern. Follow those tender sensations thou
liast felt, until thou art as full of comfort as thy heart can hold.
Miss not so fair an opportunity, but spread thy sails, for now a
gale of grace blows, so that the ship of the soul may be con-
veyed nearer the haven. Blow up the small spark into a flame,
for it may do thee much good in consuming thy corruptions,
and thawing into godly sorrow thy hard, frozen, and icy heart.
It may be of use in warming and kindling thy cold and indif-
ferent affections. It is true, alas ! that it is only as a little spai-k
SOLILOQUIES. 399
compared with a mighty ocean ; but is not (iocl omnipotent ?
Can he not preserve as well as create grace in the heart? Then
fear not, O my soul, all the enemies of thy salvation ; they may
disturb thee, but cannot ruin thee. Christ who " is mighty to
save,'' hath taken the government of the world on his own
shoulders ; he bears up the pillars of his church, and preserves
all his people ; he can " save to the uttermost," because he can
keep to the utmost extremity, yea, and beyond the utmost m.a-
lice of the fiends of hell ; they are but finite, he is infinite. If,
upon solid grounds, thou believest thyself to be a partaker of
gTace, or if any spark of it be in thee, that divine nature shall
not be lost. Blessed be that God who hath devised an extra-
ordinary method for the salvation of poor souls, and doth re-
solve to carry them through by his almighty arm. My soul is
the Lord's deposit, in safe custody, and I am persuaded that
" he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him
against that day.*" My spiritual life m.ay be hid from me, but
it is safe enough if it be " hid with Christ in God." He that
hides can surely find, though I cannot, and m.ake me so to find
my God that I shall never lose sight of him for ever.
XIII.
What changes are there, O my soul, in this thy passage to
eternity ! What sudden alterations dost thou experience in a
little time ! Thou art travelling thi-ough a wilderness, wherein
the way is hills and dales. No sooner dost thou pass over one
mountain of opposition in thy journey, than thou art involved
in the contrary extreme of a low condition. Sometimes tliou
art sinking in deep mire, and then again thou art set upon the
rock that is higher than thou; sometimes the meridian sun doth
enlighten the Goshen of my soul, and then again black Egyp-
tian darkness overspreads me. My God sometimes, for reasons
of his own and for ends best known to himself, doth leave me to
seek far for spiritual evidences, so that I doubt whether I have
any spiritual life at all. My pulse at times beats very slowly
heavenwards, nay, I give up myself as dead : yet Christ comes
and tells me, I am not dead but sleeping. Ah ! thought I,
this is a dead sleep : canst thou awake me ? Then came my
merciful Saviour and subdued my unbelief with a soul-reviving
word, saying, " Come forth." Then I felt as Peter, James,
and John, on the mount when Christ was transfigured, willing
still to be in such a place and state. I thought I was as with
the two disciples going to Emmaus, my heart burnt within me
when I heard him speaking. Never did a poor fatigued travel-
ler, in a hot summer's day, find such a shadow to shelter his
400 LIFE OF THE REV. O. IIEYWOOD.
weary body. I was as liappy as Jonah under his gourd, but
Jonah\s gourd was quickly gone and so was mine. Then I
seemed to myself in a worse state than before. What was the
cause of the change I know not, but I partly guess that some
secret sin was the worm that gnawed the vitals of my spiritual
comforts. Ah sin ! must thou always come to interrupt me in
my spiritual enjoyments ? Shall I always carry in me a proud,
hard, sensual, backsliding heart.'' AVill these corruptions al-
ways take away my communion with God ? Must weariness
and distracting thoughts still prevail against me ? It is a hard
case, that God the owner of my soul cannot bear rule in his
house as he pleaseth, but these unmannerly lusts will always be
intruding, and when he thrusts them out and bolts the door,
my treacherous heart within opens to Satan without. But I
must not despair, for the Lord will help me at the last, and I
shall sing triumphant songs when he hath delivered me out of
tlie hand of all my enemies.
XIV.
What a gi'eat disproportion is there, O my soul, betwixt a
life in glory and in this present state, though in the kingdom of
grace ! There is nothing here but sinning and suffering ; there
is nothing there but singing and triumph. These sins of mine
may accompany me in all my natural, civil, and spiritual actions
here, and attend me to my death-bed ; but that is the furthest
they shall go, they shall leave me when the soul leaves the
body ; sin can no more go with me to heaven, than one spark of
true grace shall be thrust down to hell. O my soul, thou canst
scarce obtain a day or an hour to spend it totally without some
trouble, or free from vain-distracting thoughts in communion
with God ; but it shall be otherwise in the world above. Fear
not, a time will come, when no ignorance shall becloud thy un-
derstanding, no perverseness shall militate against the rational
acts of thy reformed will, no irregularity shall withdraw thy
well-turned affections out of their right course of holy and
honourable devotion. Thy weak and brittle memory, that
used to forget what is good and to be tenacious of evil, shall
then discharge its duty, and easily recollect what sliall substan-
tiate God''s works of wonder, and prove the security of thy own
felicity. My soul, thou wilt not then complain of God's witli-
drawings from thee, of his shutting out thy prayers, or rather
praises. Thou wilt not then bemoan the loss of the light of
his countenance, or the hidings of his face in anger, or with-
drawing himself behind the curtain, or wrapping himself up in
a thick cloud, so that thy prayers cannot pass through. No,
SOLILOQUIES. 401
thy God will there say to thee once fur all, that he is well
pleased with thee for his Son's sake. Thou wilt have no need
to fear backsliding as thou often didst here ; no, he that hath
brought thee through many changes, will keep thee there above
and without a change ; he that is himself immutable will make
thee so too. Thy case will be far better than Adam's in para-
dise, whose white robe of innocence was soon changed to a
dismal garb of depravity. God gave him a power to stand
only if he would, but he will give thee both the will and the
power of keeping thy firm station. He that gives thee change
of raiment will never change thy raiment ; he that clotheth
tliee with linen clean and white, which is the righteousness of
saints, will never divest thee of thy garments, which have been
washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. O my sovil,
when thou hast been washed in the v/ater of sanctification, that
issued from tlie blessed side of Christ v/hen hanging on the
cross, how often, alas ! hast thou returned to thy swinish wal-
lowing in the mire, and then again the Lord hath pitied and
purified thee. How often hast thou resolved against corruptions,
and then broken thy bonds, and made new work for thy soul
again to renew its repentance ! Thus thou dost spend thy
days as in a circle, sometimes in offending thy God, and then
getting reconciled, sinning again and then being reconciled
again ; it may be so here, but shall not be so hereafter. If
thou dost but once enter eternity, thou mayest there bathe thy
soul in sweet delights that shall never end, and account it the
perfection of thy happiness, that there will be no end of thy
perfection, happiness, and glory. Thou shalt meet no more
with stagnant pools of waters that might contaminate thy soul,
but drink abundantly of those rivers of pleasures that are at
God's right hand, and flow for evermore. These things will
thy God do for thee and not forsake thee.
XV.
Methinks, I hear the sad complaint of ancient prophets re-
vived and patlietically uttered, by the servants of God in the
ministry at this day : " Who hath believed our report ? and to
whom is the arm of the Lord revealed .'''"' This, alas ! is the
current language of the most sensible and conscientious minis-
ters, though I could desire it were my case alone. I should
be freely content, yea, very glad if the work were done by any,
though I had no share in the praise thereof; so far am I from
envying such as are successful in the good work. But alas !
this is the common lot of many beside myself. Ah, sad k the
case and much to be lamented ! for by it God loseth his glory,
VOL. I. 2d
402 LIFE OF THE 'IlEV. O. HEYWOOD.
people lose tlieir souls, and ministers their pains. God I know
can get much glory to his justice by the destruction of souls ;
but this is not so much for preachers' consolation, nor the ad-
vancement of free grace. And must poor ministers expend
their property and Aveary out their bodies, must they pray and
preach, read and study, night and day, with many apprehensions
and tears, and the result of all be nothing else but the damna-
tion of souls ? Shall we exert ourselves to the utmost in ac-
commodating tniths to our people's ears, seek to find out ac-
ceptable words, waste our lungs, injure our health, and exhaust
our spirits in spreading before our people the richly furnished
table of the gospel, together with a view of their forlorn state,
and with seriousness in the name of Christ invite and urge
them to piirtake freely or else they will perish ; and yet for all
this people be no better ? This damps our courage, and sinks
our spirits, to see our hopes disappointed, our ends thwarted,
and our designs frustrated, so that we are almost ashamed to
own our work. I have sometimes scrupled whether I could
with a clear conscience receive any wages from my people, see-
ing I benefit them so little. It is a heavy case; if we look
about us on one side, there is a set of boon companions who
spend their days in mirth, and out of compliment once a month,
it may be, attend on the public ordinance ; these are far out of
the reach of the word, except we could speak so loudly that
they could hear us at their alehouse bench. Others come ordi-
narily, but they either sleep their time away or stare it out, and
with the adder stop their ears and will not hear the charmer's
melodious tune that might rouse them out of their security.
Others either audaciously outface the clearest truths of God, or
loathe the heavenly manna. Some smother any convictions of
heart by profane practices. Others with whom we have taken
much pains, of whom we have conceived good hopes, from
whom we expected much fi-uit to God's glory ; these alas ! that
were so forward in religion, turn out of the way and embrace
novel things, dote upon vanities, and follow after lies ; and if
any wind of doctrine come they are quickly carried over deck
into a sea of error. It is a sad thing to see our people seduced
before our eyes, and we know not how to help it. It is a pani-
ful spectacle to witness our dearest, natural, civil, and as we
hoped, our christian friends that professed much love to us, as
the Galatians to Paul, now railing upon us with the most oppro-
brious and reviling nicknames, and saying, they are now set at
liberty from those insulting priests and Babylonish enchanters.
All this aggravates our grief. Should not all the ministers in
the nation expostulate with God, and earnestly desire him to
SOLILOQUIES. 405
show the cause of his contending with them ? It is the bitter-
est cup a poor minister can taste, except it be hell itself, when
he must study, preach, pray, and be very conscientious in the
discharge of ministerial duties, and all to sink men deeper in
misery, to make them more inexcusable, and their condemna-
tion more intolerable. Our doctrine is generally a savour of
life, but may prove a savour of death through men's corruptions.
God departs by degrees. The effectual power of God may be
removed from his ordinances, first, in refusing a converting
power to them ; then he may remove some candlesticks and
leave us in twilight, and at last quite vanish out of sight : or
else he may extinguish all the lights and so leave the poor na-
tion involved in darkness. This is sad ; but if we discharge
our duties as ministers, be diligent in watching over our people's
souls, our labour will return to our own bosom to our eternal
advantage ; though we may be disappointed, and Israel be not
gathered, yet if we be found in Christ, we shall be glorified,
and that will be compensation for our sorrows.
XVI.
Return again, my soul, into thine own bosom, and search
the secret conclaves of thy heart. Kow happy wast thou in
the sweet enjoyment of thy God ! How joyful wast thou when
the whispers of God's comforting Spirit told thee of thy inte-
rest in Christ, the pardon of thy sins, and saving of thy soul !
But how sad shouldst thou now be when all tliese things are
hid from thine eyes ! Thy fellowship with the Father and
the Son, through the Spirit, did rejoice thy heart ; but now,
alas ! my soul is like a moaning turtle-dove deprived of her
mate. Once I can remember, upon good and solid grounds I
could call Christ my dear and much loved friend, my elder
brotlier, and he did take it well at my unworthy hands ; but
now, methinks, I dare, not speak unto him, because I have
spoken so much against him. He may justly speak against me
in his fury, and vex me in his sore displeasure. I dare not now
call him my God, lest I should miscall him, and he be angry
with me for using such a title. I dare not call him to me for
my help, lest instead of a friend he show himself an enemy, and
tear my soul in pieces like a lion. He hath already withdrawn
himself, he hides his face and writes bitter things against me,
and makes me to possess the sins of my life and heart. Me-
thinks I could well take up those sad and bitter complaints of
those holy men of God in scripture, Job and David ; but alas !
how short am I of them in sorrow for the Lord's displeasure.
Methinks I could mourn my Lord's departure in the words,
2d2
404 LIFE or THE llEV. O. HEY wo 01). -
but cannot with tlie heart cf Christ, when in the sorest agony
that ever the sun perceived, he said, " My God, my God, why
hast thou forsaken me ?"" But there is this great difference, he
spoke with a confident persuasion of his relation to God the
Father (being his eternal Son in whom he was even then well
pleased,) but I dare not affirm my interest in the Lord. To the
latter part of the sentence I have reason to subscribe, but the
former I cannot fully appropriate ; I have lost my evidence, yet
may the Lord help me to keep near to him by a close adherence.
I will not quite despond in mind, renounce my hopes, and give
up my all as lost ; for suppose the work never was right, and
grace was never wrouglit, yet there is hope if I do now begin
tiie work anev/. I dare not call in question God's truth and
faithfulness, nor must I deny what God hath done for my poor
soul ; I will not say, " Is his mercy clean gone for ever, and
will he be favourable no more .'*" I hope I shall acknowledge the
Lord's infinite mercy tliough he condemn me, and affirm against
all atheistical thoughts and diabolical insinuations, that God is
true to his part of the covenant, but I have been most false and
perfidious in mine ; I alone am the cause of this my sorrow.
Should God not only hide his face for awhile, but make all my
days in the flesh dark and dismal, and at last exclude me from
his presence for ever, I could find no fault with him, I must
necessarily justify the Lord ; for he is " holy in all his ways,
and rigliteous in all his works"' of justice as well as mercy. But,
O my soul, be of good cheer, raise thy hopes and consider whom
thou hast to deal with — an infinite God, and not a mortal
man, and therefore one v/ho hath the best design in bestowing
his spiritual mercies. Suppose the Lord frown now, he may
smile hereafter ; though he be angry he may be pacified, his
wrath endureth for a moment, but his loving-kindness is ever-
lasting. This is but a storm raised by the vapours of thy sins,
it will quickly be blown over, and God will return. He with-
draws but for thy good, to make thee prize the means of grace
more. Perhaps he doth it to convince thee of thy sloth and
sensuality, to animate thee to future diligence, to deter thee
from future backsliding, or to try thy truth and sincerity.
Wait awhile and thou wilt see he will shine upon thy poor,
forlorn, and sad condition, and restore comforts to thee not-
withstanding all this mourning. In the mean time, my soul, be
silent, shut thy mouth, accuse not God, repine not at his dis-
pensations, submit to his will, and drink the bitter cup which
God hath prepared for thee ; perhaps he may mingle some
honey with the gall. But if the Lord should draw thee all the
way through fire, darkness, and death, yet if he lead thee to
SOLILOQUIES. 405
peace, light, and life at last, he will be a perfect Saviour and
thou an infinite gainer ; heaven will make amends for all. The
sharper thy way the sweeter will be thy home, and the length
of the road in the wilderness will give a better relish to Canaan s
milk and honey.
XVII.
Stir up thyself, O my forsaken soul, and run to God. Shame
upon this indolent humour ! It will slay my soul and
strengthen my corruptions, it will revive my sins and crucify
my graces. Go to God, my soul, die guilt of many conscience-
wasting sins are upon thee, both of omission and commission ;
and is it not dangerous to sleep in such a state ? Can it be
safe to be in rebellion against the King of heaven, who can
crush thee tb nothing in a moment by a word or a touch ? Is
there not unspeakable hazard in resting without a reconciled
God ? How knowest thou but he may send thee out of the
world before the day dawn ; and is it not a matter of some
moment to go into eternity especially in this thy great uncer-
tainty ? Dost thou not fear this great and mighty Jehovah,
who, after he hath killed the body, can cast both body and soul
to hell ? If a strong man armed should stand at thy bedside
vowing thy death, couldst thou sleep quietly ? Yet he could
not do thee a thousandth part of the evil the Lord can do :
there is no greater happiness than to have God thy friend, and
no greater misery than to have him thy enemy. Give him then
no rest day or night until he hear, and hearing, help, and help-
ing, bring a suitable remedy to thy restless state. Tell him,
O my soul, what he himself liath said, what Christ hath suf-
fered, and urge him Avith all the golden, gracious, precious
promises in his sacred book. Tell God, thou hast deserved
the flames of his justice for ever ; but ask him if he delighteth
not to show mercy ? Tell him thou art not worthy to be called
a son ; but ask him if he will not admit thee once again into
his family, to be amongst his lowest servants H Tell God all
the odious circumstances of thy sins, that thou mayest be vile
in thy own eyes ; but ask him if he delights not in pardoning
iniquity, transgression, and sin ? Expostulate the case thus
with God, and spread thy cause before him. Let God perceive
by thy groans that though thou art a sinner, yet thou art a
repenting sinner ; though a prodigal, yet a returning prodigal.
As thy offences have been against light and strong convictions;
so let thy repentance be fvill of light and strong resolutions.
As thou hast used means to draw thyself to sin, so now use
arguments to drive thyself to God. As thou hast met tempta-
tions, and courteously shaken hands with Satan's suggestions;
406 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
SO now bestir thyself to get rid thereof and bid an everlasting
farewell to them. Commit thyself to God, and let nothing
satisfy but the enjoyment of his presence. Use all appointed
means to attain this good end. Pray, read, and meditate till
thou find him whom thou lovest. But make not thy duties thy
saviours, for so they will prove thy destroyers. Do what thou
canst, but trust in nothing that thou dost ; lay all the stress,
both for acceptance and assistance, upon the grace of God in
Christ. Though thou deservest to be hated notwithstanding
all thy best performances, for thine own sake, yet perhaps he
may save thee and delight in thee, for the sake of the Beloved
of his own bosom, and satisfy thee with the discovery of his love
in due time, and never leave thee comfortless again.
XVIII.
Come once again, my soul, and let me bring thee to the
touchstone, lest God hereafter try thee and thou be faulty.
Are thy graces become more in number and degree than for-
merly ? Are tliy corruptions weaker than before ? Is thy
heart softer and holier than it was the last year, month, or
^eek ? Are thy affections nearer heaven and more delighted
in thy God ? Is thy judgment sounder, clearer, and more
raised than heretofore ^ Dost thou see a greater vanity in in-
ferior objects and a greater excellency in Christ, grace, and
gospel mysteries ? Is thy conversation more divine, testifying
thy nearer approach to heaven ? What sayest thou, are these
things thus in thee, and dost thou feel thyself in svich a pos-
ture ? Methinks thou art like poor Israel in the wilderness
that was still travelling for forty years, but gained little ground,
that went about this and the otlier hill and came again to the
same place ; so my soul is trudging on and gets not forward,
and for one step forv.ard sometimes goes three back. Methinks
my soul is like a lazy scholar that comes awhile to school,
and then is taken off, or plays the truant, and loseth all that
ever he had learned ; so my truant soul begins a little to follow
its business, but something takes it off, and then there is a return
to its former state of indolence. Sometimes I have taken much
pains with this dull and heavy heart of mine to raise it hea-
venwards, and when I have got it to some degree of heavenly
elevation, down it falls again. No sooner do I weed out of the
field of my barren heart the tares of sin, than it is quickly
overgrown again with sensual cogitations. For shame, my soul,
dost thou not see that thy inferiors in years, who set out long
after thee, have left thee far behind .'' Some that had not such
means cf growth have, by their industry, attained to more soli-
SOLILOQUIES. 407
dity of comfort, stability in grace, certainty of faith, and fer-
vency of spirit. New converts are fresh and lively, raised more
in their affections, more constant in their communion with God,
more steady in their holy conversation, and more filled with
sweet experience of God's love to their souls. Alas ! must thou
be still complaining of thy revolting and backsliding heart .^^
Must thou lament thy state and spend thy days in mournful
elegies ? Shouldst thou not have taken thy flight into the
more noble and elevated parts of Christianity, and soul-tran-
sporting enjoyments of thy God.'^ Shouldst thou not have been
delighting thyself in anticipations of eternity, and rising in holy
wishes and longings for thy rest ? Shouldst thou not by this
time have trodden Satan under foot, bid defiance to thy des-
perate foe, and been rid of thy baneful strong corruptions that
haunt thee ? But, alas ! how unstable art thou thus to retreat,
advance, and then retreat again. How mournful is it to spend
thy days in lamentable strains, sometimes up and sometimes
down, and often at a loss, and far to seek for peace, comfort,
and a sense of pardon ! How long must it be thus with thee ?
When will it be that I shall hear thee say, as good old Simeon,
" Lord, now let thy servant depart in peace, according to thy
word; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation .'^ " When will
my soul be settled in a firm posture, my heart as full of spiritual
joy as it can hold, and nothing wanting but the breaking down
of this wall of flesh, that I may be in my Father's palace re-
joicing in him and v^^ith him for ever ? Ah ! must I never see
the happy day, when I may bring God more glory, and be
more useful in my place and calling ? Lord, help me to mend
my pace, and run my race with more delight, and press towards
the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
XIX.
Ah, little did I think, my soul, thou wouldst have been so
long from God and longed so little for communion with him !
But now I see something of the boundless depth of my deceit-
ful heart ; who can know it ? Full often has God's blessed
Spirit spoken loud in thy deaf ears, saying, return, return ;
but thou hast stopped thy ears and strenuously resisted,
quenched, and grieved the Holy Spirit. Sometimes thou hast
been v/illing to listen to the suggestions of God's Spirit but
flesh and blood and carnal reasonings have diverted thy inten-
tions. Sometimes thou hast begun with serious sadness to
weep and pray, and exercise faith in the Lord, but hast been
taken off by violent distractions, and vehement wanderings of
thy heart. Come now, my soul, what is it that is wont to keep
408 LIFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
thee from this duty ? Is it the guilt of many sins that drives
thee from the Lord ? Hast thou not the greater need on that
account to approach unto him, who hath enjoined all weary
and heavy laden souls to repose themselves on him ? Must
not thy sin be laid on Christ or on thyself? and whether dost
thou think can better bear it, infinite God-man, or finite worm-
man ? Or doth thy long absence from God affright thee and
thy strangeness to him terrify thee ? The rather and sooner
must thou come on that account. Is there any good to be had
in distance from him .'' and wilt thou be more prepared another
time than now ? Art thou afraid that God is so displeased with
thee that he will not receive thee ? Consider, hath not God
often said, he v/ill heal backsliders and receive offending prodi-
gals ? Venture then, and again put God to it, thou shalt find
him faithful to his promises. Was ever any rejected that re-
pented ; or canst thou find examples to testify God's unkind-
ness .'* Nay, nay, my soul, recollect thy own experience, and
that may keep thee from discouragement. Repair to God, for
that is indispensable, and let not a supposition of thy rejection
make thee run into inevitable destruction. Believing is a ven-
ture, and will not a merchant venture much on a probability ?
A may-be, is ground enough for faith on scripture precedents.
Who knows but God may return and leave a blessing behind .''
XX.
God's people are now in public and I am deprived of their
society ; but it is by reason of my incapacity. My heart is
with them and fain v/ould this frail body follow ; but at present
God hath clipped my wings and manacled my legs, bolted my
chamber door, and made that my prison which was wont to be
my palace. But God is just and deals most righteously with
me. My heart was formerly imprisoned in his service ; now
my body is imprisoned from his service in public. I looked
not to my feet when I trod the way to his house ; now he keeps
my feet from treading in it. My heart was at home sometimes
when my body was exercised in public duties ; now my body is
at home, and my heart is, I hope, with God and his saints in
the courts of his house. I have made the Lord's day too much
like a week day in sinning and neglecting God's service ; now
he makes it like a week day in my being absent from public
worship. I have not made sabbath day duties a delight ; now
God hath made the sabbath day wearisome through pain. JVIy
soul hath not returned from its rest in sinning : nov/ God keep-
eth my body from rest in suffering. My church devotion has
been too much confined to form ; now mv heart devotion is con-
SOLILOQUIES. 409
fined to my chamber. I appeared in public what I was not in
private ; now I cannot appear in public any part of what I am.
As I have done, so God hath done to me, though not accord-
ing to my deserts, but in faithfulness hath he afflicted me, and
in much tenderness too ; for though he hath excluded me from
public yet not from private communion. Though the promise
of his presence be to two or three met in his name in public,
yet he excludes not single persons from the blessing in private.
He meets his hidden ones in any corner where they find him.
Though he feeds his flock beside the shepherd tents, yet he
can carry the lambs in his arms, give them food alone, and
make them lie down in a green pasture. His Spirit moves
most on the waters of the sanctuary, yet he is not straitened
nor is his hand shortened ; he is a well of living waters and as
streams from Lebanon. God is omnipresent, therefore the true
worshippers respect neither mount Zion nor the mountain of
Samaria, but worship him in spirit and in truth. He respects
places no more than persons, let it be church or chamber. If
I may enjoy thee, O Lord, no matter where it is, thy presence
makes a palace of a prison, but the want of it makes a paradise,
a dungeon, a hell ; where the prince's presence is, tliere is the
court. I would rather have communion with thee here, without
tliy people, than have communion with thy people in thy house,
without thee. Far be it from me to reject the public ordi-
nances, or forsake the assembling of the saints, as too many do,
I might then be branded with the odious name of a conceited
separatist. No, no, I prefer a day in God's courts before a
thousand elsewhere ; but, now, when debarred from public and
confined to my private devotions, I would make the best im-
provement thereof I can. O that God would lift up the light
of his countenance upon me, and shine into my soul with the
beams of his light and love ! Help me. Lord, to perform those
duties alone which I am accustomed to perform in public. Was
I God's mouth to his people "^ Let me speak with his voice
and words unto myself in heavenly soliloquies, holy meditations,
and serious self-expostulations, examining myself about sincerity,
spurring on myself to the practice of duties, reproving myself
for any iniquity, and encouraging my self with scripture promises.
Was I the people's mouth to God in prayer ? Let me pour
out my soul in bitter complaints for sin, in serious requests for
pardoning, sanctifying, assisting and accepting grace, and for a
supply of all wants. As I believe the prayers of my congrega-
tion are for me, so let my prayers be knocking at heaven's gate
for them, that his servant may be assisted in speaking, the peo-
ple edified in hearing, and that it may be a good day to them.
410 LIFE or THE llEV. O. HEYWOOD.
Did I stir up otlicrs to the duty of praise ? Let mc make
melody in my heart to tlie I^ord and rejoice in him. Surely it
will be no small mercy, if by, and in, and after this affliction
my God prepare me faithful and fruitful improvement of such
days as these, and my heart be better qualified to sanctify God's
name in holy duties, when I shall again be brought to worship
him in the beauty of holiness and speak to his praise in the
great congregation ; or else bring me to sing praises to his
name in heaven, and spend an everlasting sabbath with saints
and angels.
XXI.
The time of affliction, O my soul, is a special season for
self-examination. We must search and try our ways when
God examines us by scourging. Enter therefore into thy-
self, try thy state, and enquire the cause of God's contending
with thee. O Lord, what was it made thee touch so sharply
this flesh of mine ? Didst thou make my head to ache because
my head did first devise to sin, and then contrive excuses for
it ? Were my senses the inlets of sorrow because they were
first the windows of sin ? Was every member of my body a
patient in suffering, because every one was an agent in sinning.?
Didst thou strike my flesh with trembling because I trembled
not at thy word, nor stood in awe of thy majesty ? Didst thou
bring sometimes an ague because I was cold in devotion, and
sometimes a fever because I was zealous in transgression, and
sometimes both because I was lukewarm in my profession ?
Didst thou strike my bones and joints with torturing pains from
head to foot, because they have been instruments of unrighteous-
ness, so nimble for iniquity, and so inflexible to goodness ?
Didst thou make my heart sick and faint ? Was it not for the
many fleshly lusts that have been hatched there ':' Was not my
stomach weak because I had no appetite for gospel food, but
did nauseate the saving dictates of thy truth ? Was my brain
oppressed with cloudy fears, or grown light for want of sleep ?
It was because my soul was too much burdened with the world,
set on vanities, and not employed about eternity. Was my
whole body made a cage of foul diseases ? Surely the cause is
clear, my soul was too fruitful a mother and nurse of the plague
of the heart. Since then, my soul, the cause of this sickness is
so evident that he that runs may read, freely accept of this
punishment of thy sin, lay thy hand upon thy mouth, strike
upon thy breast and say, what have I done ? Thy conscience
will quickly answer, thou hast done that which might have un-
done thee for ever. Never complain of thy punishment, since
thou art alive and out of hell.
SOLILOQUIES. 411
XXII.
Reflect upon thyself, O my soul, and view thy behaviour
under God's afflicting hand. It was difficult to see a father's
love in all the displeasure manifested, to discover a smiling
fiice through all these frowns; yet, through grace, I had a
glimpse by the eye of faith, beyond nature and reason, so that
he helped me to bear my burden in some measure with patience
and submission. Various thoughts assaulted my troubled
breast ; sometimes I took my farewell of the earth and welcomed
immortality with a hopeful embrace. Amidst these thoughts I
was involved in the apostle's dilemma, not knowing which to
choose, life or death. Sometimes I thought it was my own un-
profitableness that deprived me of a capacity for doing God's
service in gathering in his people, and that my sin would make
my sun to set in the morning of my days and infancy of my
ministry. Therefore I begged of God a few more days to
spend them better ; but then immediately I thought this was
flesh. Hath not God a sufficient number to do his work far
better than I can ? Is it not best to be in my Father's house ?
Who would plead himself out of home and rest ? Then I looked
through another glass and earnestly desired a change, and
Avished for death, like a kind porter, to let me into my Father's
palace ; for what is here, thought I, but an evil world without
and. a wicked heart within ! And what is there in heaven but
holiness and happiness, enough to keep the souls of the blessed
in an ecstacy to all eternity ? Thus was the desire of life
swallowed up in the joys of which death would give me posses-
sion. Yet I could not rest here, I was afraid lest that desire
was too mean and slavish, making the ground of my wish to be
freedom from my trials. In this perplexing state, because I
felt how unfit I was to dispose of myself, I put myself into the
hands of my gracious God desirous of submitting to his will.
One night after tedious tossings from pain until three o'clock, I
was assualted with a violent temptation of Satan, persuading
me that these pains were the foretastes infernal torments, in
which they would shortly end. I answered him with such
passages as God furnished me out of his word, and sometimes
I prayed God to aid me in resisting the devil, or to turn aside
the fiery darts : this he abundantly answered. Blessed be God.
XXIII.
Time was, O my soul, when thou didst fear, with Abraham,
the heavy doom of being written childless ; but now, through
grace, the scene is altered and thou mayest say with Jacob,
here be the children God hath graciously given thee. I may
412 LIIE OF THE REV. O. HEVWOOD.
say so of the fruit of my body, but more so of the travail of my
soul ; the first is a precious mercy, but the latter is of more
value. The conversion of one sinner saves a soul from death,
covers a multitude of sins, and restores fallen man to circum-
stances superior to the state of Adam. This, this, brings glory
to God, joy to the angels, benefit to the saints, and enlargement
to the church ; it is the fruit of the Saviour's travail with
which he is satisfied. The glory of a prince is the multitude
of his subjects, and thus Christ is glorified when sinners are
converted. It is a glorious work in the hand of the worthiest
instrument, but the wonder increases if the means be considered.
Hadst thou been some profound scholar, or learned interpreter,
one of a thousand, some acute Apollos, an eloqent man, mighty
in the scriptures, it would have appeared more probable by a
proportion of the means to the end. Or hadst thou been some
thundering Boanerges, some zealous awakening Paul, less of
God and more of man would have appeared in the work. But
the Lord did single thee out to be an example of his wonderful
and glorious work ; he chooseth weak things, yea, and things
that are not, to bring to nought things that are, that no flesh
should glory in his presence ; and therefore often doth great
things by very unlikely means. The work indeed would become
angelic spirits, what then is a babe, a worm, an earthen vessel ?
thou art not worthy to be reckoned one of the honourable regi-
ment of the clergy, being inferior to most in abilities, yet few
have had thy success. How many dost thou hear make sad
complaints how little good they do ! ]Many famous, skilful,
and laborious servants of God, whose books thou art not worthy
to carry after them, have spent much precious time and poured
out many prayers and tears on behalf of men's souls, but
have won very few if any to Christ. What troubled spirits
have many revered ministers carried with grey hairs to the
grave ! Surely the race is not to the swift nor the battle to
the strong ; no, no, free grace makes choice of the word and
person to work by, and lays aside others that we conceive more
adapted. The reason why the Lord should work by one and
not by another, is the same as why he loveth one person and
not another : " Even so. Father, for so it seemeth good in thy
sight.'"" It was not because thou wast inclined to, and designed
for, this work from a child, nor because thy aim was upright in
making choice of this high function ; nor because when in sick-
ness thou didst solemnly vow to God, that if he would restore
thee thou wouldst serve him at the altar all the days of thy
life ; nor was it because thy dear relations did wrestle hard with
God for thee and thy people, that the Lord would crown thy
SOLILOQUIES. 413
endeavours with abundant fruitfulness : though I do believe
this great mercy is a wonderful return of prayer, yet none of
these nor all of them together could have effected such a design,
nor moved the Lord to work, had not free grace prepared our
hearts to seek and bowed his ear to hear. Thus the Alpha
and Omega were from him, who is the author and finisher of
faith, and we may cry, grace, grace, to the fountain of all grace.
My soul, make thy boast in the Lord, that the humble may
hear thereof and be glad ; from him cometh all my salvation.
Do thou, my soul, cast down thy crown before the throne and
give glory and honour to him that sitteth thereon, for he is
worthy to receive glory and praise for ever. All I fear is, lest
I should not be thankful for, sensible of, and faithful under this
invaluable mercy ; lest I should not improTe it ; or lest I should
arrogate too much to myself. O my soul, beware of the tick-
lings of pride and self-conceit ! Thou hast had woful experi-
ence of a deceitful heart in a like case. When the Lord helps
thee with life and power in any exercise thou art nearest to a
snare and fall ; the devil and thy depraved heart are very busy,
and when he cannot overturn by one extreme he drives into
another. O, beware of these things, and remember, thou hast
nothing which thou hast not received. Beware of thoughts aspir-
ing above my reverend brethren, and think not better of thy-
self than those to whom God gives little success. They may
be more gracious, laborious, and higher in God's favour, and
may be very useful in training up converted souls, satisfying
the scrupulous, and comforting the dejected. God gives
diversity of gifts and different success to those gifts : he is
wise, gracious, and faithful in his dispensations ; admire God
in all and despise none. Wait, my soul, on the Lord, plead
with holy jealousy that poor converts may not look back, and
that thou, after having wrought on others, may set not be a cast
away.
XXIV.
Hardly, O my soul, canst thou bear the sunshine of a gra-
tifying mercy without dark obscuring clouds of trouble and
affliction. The Lord thy God hath often honoured thee before
all the people, and now he hath left thee to endure some dis-
grace before them. He lately withdrew himself from thee on
Ijis own day, less sensibly, but very discernible to thyself and
some judicious Christians. Thou didst not make that use
thereof which God required, and therefore yesterday he left
thee to struggle in thy own strength, to do just nothing.
Surely it is a thing much to be observed, and thy frame of spi-
rit much to be lamented. O humble thyself before the Lord,
4.14 LIFE OF THE ItEV. O. HEYWOOD.
and see vvhat thou canst make of this dispensation ! Were it
tending only to thy personal shame and open discredit, it were
less matter, though a due estimation of thy person may make
way for the reception of thy message ; but the leprosy of thy
personal faihngs may spread itself exceedingly far and bring
forth bitter fruit. I could willingly be taken out of the way,
be banished into some howling wilderness, rot in the grave, or
beg my bread, rather than injure God\s cause, or open wicked
men\s mouths. From whence came it to pass that I lost myself.''
"■ Tis true, the slackness of the people's coming in, occasioned
me to change my purpose. Possibly there might have been
some sin in my people to provoke the Lord thus to deal with
his poor creature : they expected too much from the instrument,
and eyed God too little ; they have been unthankful for, and un-
fruitful under my enlargement ; or were unprepared by coming
immediately from civil employments to divine ordinances.
These and such like things some of them have bewailed ; but,
() my soul, the cause is in thee m.ore than in any one else ; I am
the Jonah that troubled the ship. What is it that God cor-
rects in thee ? Lay thy hand upon thy heart and search out
the cause. How often hast thou enjoyed the wonderful pre-
sence of God ; but how little hast thou prized it ! How often
hast thou pleased thyself with applauding thoughts, as having
done well and deserved praise ! Has it not pleased thee more
to have thy talents commended than the truth of God received.'*
O base prostitution of divine favours, to gratify the vain expec-
tations of ambition ! How much hast thou been at thy book
and how little on thy knees ! Luther says : " Prayer, medi-
tation, and temptation make a preacher.'' How little hast thou
been acting faith on Jesus Christ for assistance, using means as
if there were no God to help ! Thou hast acted as if the stu-
dying of precious truths, and the bare committing of them
to memory were enough to render thee fit for public services ;
whereas, that seldom reaches the heart which does not come
from it, and has not been wrought into it. How seldom after
preaching dost thou get alone, water the seed of the word with
tears, and pursue the Lord with importunity for success ! O
my God, all these are but too true, and thou art very just ! I
may rather wonder that I have been so often helped, than
repine that I have now been left. I have a tliousand times less
frequently tlian I deserve ! The glory of God is dear to him
and he will not give his glory to another. If too much be
attributed to the instrument, no wonder that he stain the glory
of man and lay his honour in the dust, that God may be all
in all.
SOLILOQUIES. 415
XXV.
Prepare thyself, my soul, for the enjoyment of the important
ordhiance of the I^ord's supper which thou hopest to enjoy tlie
following day. Trim up thy lamp and go to God for new
supplies of grace. Look to thy habitual and actual preparation.
Get anointed from above with fresh and refreshing oil. Go
and buy, or rather beg additional divine influences. Old grace
will not serve thee for new duties. Whet the sword anew to
slay thy lusts ; furbish thy shield of faith to repel Satan's fiery
darts ; sharpen the anchor of hope to cast behind the veil ;
kindle the fire of love that it may grow more fervent, and glow
in flames of ardent affection to God and all the saints. Read
the story of thy dear Redeemer's life and death, that thou
mayest be furnished with abundant matter for remembrance of
his death and passion. Look at the wormwood and the gall
to cause thy heart to bleed in genuine repentance for thy dis-
obedience. Examine thyself thoroughly and impartially, and
trifle not with God in a matter of sucii importance. Search thy
heart and life, review thy sins and graces, look to thy principles,
and motives in these approaches to God. Thou art to renew thy
covenant with the Lord; be not found a covenant breaker.
Thou art to draw nigh to God in a special manner, wash thy
hands in innocency before God's altar be approached by thee.
Above all, awake my faith towards a crucified Saviour. Con-
sider, O my soul, who he is that suffered, and for whom he en-
dured so many evils : it was the innocent for the guilty ; the
just for the unjust ; the Mighty God for weak man. He be-
came sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of
God in him ; the Son of God assvimed the nature of man to pay
the price of our redemption, and be a propitiation for our sins.
O my soul, bring all thy sins and lay them on this scape-goat ;
bring all thy wounds to this physician ; bring all thy doubts to
this counsellor. Come, and derive sap from this blessed vine,
light from this glorious sun, and protection from this rock.
What dost thou want or desire, that is not to be had in abun-
dance here ? The streams are sweet, but what is the spring ?
The means are good, but what is the end ? In this and all
ordinances strive to get near Christ and have communion with
him.
XXVL
Surely the benefit of an ordinance is not ended when the out-
ward dispensation is concluded ; for sometimes the recollection
is more profitable than the administration. Consider, O my
soul, how thy heart was affected in reading the blessed insti-
tution ! A sweet overpowering virtue descended from above :
Iff
416 IJFE OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOD.
my beloved spoke good and heart-melting words to me. I
thought the shadow of Christ was delightful. The elements
were desirable not for themselves, but the marrow and mystery
represented by them. Did Christ give his flesh for the life of
the world, and dost thou not find, O my soul, vivifying virtue
therein .^ Did Christ shed his blood for justification, and canst
thou doubt of the remission of thy sins ? Hast thou expe-
rienced the great design of the ordinance in thy heart .'' Didst
thou find it the means of effectual conveyance of rich commu-
nications, and comfortable e\'idence of thy regeneration affording
thee assurance of salvation .'' Didst thou find it as bread to
nourish and wine to refresh thy soul ? Though I had not such
a transporting vision of a resplendent ]\Iediator as the three
privileged ones on the mount ; yet my soul did enjoy some dis-
coveries of a transfigured Saviour in the sacramental elements.
O tliat they may abide on my heart for many days and weeks !
O my soul, be not faithless but believing ; send all thy unbe-
lieving doubts to this Captain of thy salvation. Be ashamed,
O thou hard, impenitent heart, and blush to think that thy dear
Saviour should suffer thus for thy sins, and yet thou be so little
broken and affected therewith. Cast thy eye upon the bleeding
Jesus, and see what relenting sorrows it produces. Look on
him whom thou hast pierced, and weep bitterly as for an only
child. If thou shouldst ever begin to faint in thy spiritual
race or warfare, a crumb of this delicious bread of life may
revive tliee and make thee run wdth alacrity. If thou shouldest
fall into a spiritual lethargy, one drop of this aqua vitcE, this
soul-cheering and cleansing cordial, may bring thee to life again
and make thee as the chariots of Amminadib.
XXVII.
Yesterday I went prepared to preach a lecture at my own
place, and had provided an assistant, who came and brought
with him another dear friend of mine ; so they were both em-
ployed and my pains spared. I cannot but take notice of this
as a sp2cial providence, considering the circumstances attending
the business. I had a subject which I much desired to preach
at that lecture : Psal. cxii. 7, " He shall not be afraid of evil
tidings." JNly mind had run very much on this text, and I had
taken extraordinary pains with it ; had read the sermon twice
over, which I seldom have the mind or the leisure to do. I had
pleased myself with the thought how likely it was to be accept-
able and profitable to the auditory, which was composed of most
Christians in the neighbourhood. After all this, I was disap-
pointed in the delivery, and upon the review, am persuaned it
SOLILOQUIES. 417
was a mercy to me. O my soul, hadst tliou a right end in
view in making choice of the subject ? Was it not to display
thy own spirit rather than the truth of God ? Lay thy hand
upon thy heart and make a strict enquiry. Didst thou not
study to make it fine with history, and rhetorical flourishes ?
Consider, souls are precious and the work is weighty, requiring
thy best and utmost provision for every sermon. Seek not credit
from men, but study to deliver the wholesome truths of God,
in homely, plain, though well becoming language. Seek not
to set off" tlie glorious gospel with any device of thy own. How
often hast thou found by sad experience that when thou hast
most sought thyself thou hast most lost thyself.? Thou art
bound to search out for acceptable words, and avoid a barbarous
phraseology; yet take heed thou dost not please Satan by
gratifying thy own and others'' luxuriant fancies, in the things
of God. Learn of Paul to preach not with enticing words, but
in demonstration of the Spirit. Get thy proud thoughts humbled
before thou goest to preach, and tremble to think of preaching
thyself when thou shouldst preach Christ ; pray more over thy
heart and labours. Particularly examine this discourse, and
mourn over what might have been offensive to others or danger-
ous to thyself.
XXVIII.
After twenty-two years and upwards, wherein I have been
studying, preaching, praying, and waiting on God, since I first
began to write my soul-soliloquies, I am now pressed in spirit
again to return to my own soul and enquire, what progress I
have made in sanctification, communion with God, and pre-
paration for heaven .? Come then, O my soul, how are things
with thee ? Deal faithfully with God and thyself; do not dis-
semble ; dodge not about spiritual matters, for the heart-search-
ing God knows how things are ; self-flattery would be thy souFs
ruin. True it is my soul hath contracted a heavy burden of
guilt during this time. I have had many temptations, corrup-
tions, fears, doubts, and discouragements, which have put my soul
on perplexing exercises. But yet, for all that, to the praise of the
glory of God's grace, I hope I can say, I have made some progress
in the ways of God. I will not conceal but reckon up what testi-
monies I can find thereof, partly to raise my spirits in praise to
God, and partly to evidence my sincerity. I hope I do not lie
therein but say the truth in Christ, my conscience bearing me
witness in the Holy Ghost. 1 . My soul hath been drawn out more
frequently to renew my covenant with the Lord my God than
formerly, and that too in a more solemn manner, writing it down
and subscribing it as in the presence of God. Such days have
VOL. I. 2 E
418 Liir: of the rev, o. heywood.
been days of heart-breaking and heart-quickening ; blessed be
my God. 2. God hath helped mc more constantly to main-
tain the duty of secret prayer, and he doth more melt my heart
by his blessed Spirit. There are but few days, when I am at
home, but God and my soul meet in secret. 3. The Lord helps
me to spend my time better than formerly. Through grace
I cannot say that I am idle any one day, but can give some
tolerable account of the expenditure of time for earth or heaven,
in my general or particular calling. 4. As my employment has
been increased, so I feel a renewing of strength in my heart.
In my studies I have fresh and more profitable matter sug-
gested to my thoughts; so that, comparing my notes now
and formerly, I find that the Lord doth assist me. 5. I find
my heart more zealously carried out for the good of souls, both
in preaching and praying, in public, private, and secret ; I
could lay myself under the feet of sinners to do them good.
The yearnings of my bowels for sinners my God knoweth. 6.
My heart is more endeared to saints as saints, without a factious
respect to parties, so that I can take delight in the poorest,
and most cross-natured and conceited child of God, wherein I
can see any thing of Christ and goodness. 7. I find more
power in regulating my passions, though I feel them oft work-
ing ; yet upon pleading with God in prayer they are calmed ;
through grace I can say, anger rests not in my bosom. 8. I
find, by the grace of God, I can put up with injuries and af-
fronts better than formerly, and not study revenge ; yea, my
heart is more enabled not only to forgive, but to pray to God
for the repentance and forgiveness of those who have done me
the greatest wrongs ; they cost me many a tear. 9. My heart
is grieved if God be dishonoured, his Spirit offended, and his
gospel reproached by the sins of the wicked, or professors, or my-
self ; and my heart is carried out many times in renewing my
repentance on more pure and evangelical principles. 10. If I
know I have offended any person, especially believers, it is a
burden to my spirit, and I cannot be satisfied till I have humbled
myself before them, with self-abasing testimonies of sincere
grief, and solicited forgiveness from them. 11. When I have
seen professors at a distance from each other it hath been the
grief of my soul, and I have often interposed to make up
breaches. Sometimes God hath granted me the desired success,
and when it hath been otherwise God hath continued my pity
and prayers for them. 12. The great concerns of the church
and nation have been more upon' my heart than formerly. O
what pleadings hath God helped me to urge for kings, nobles,
ministers, and the interests of Christ. 13. I can rejoice mpre
SOLILOQUIES. 419
in tlie gifts, graces, and success of God's servants tliat are more
useful than I am ; and can say, through grace, that if God will
make use of others more than of me, I am not only satisfied but
thankful. 14. God hath helped my soul to obtain the victory
over the corruptions of my heart. Some lusts, that God knows
have cost me many groans, tears, and conflicts, he hath either
mortified or removed the occasions from me, so that sin hath not
broken out so much as formerly. 15. My heart hath been
more helped to undervalue the world and the things thereof,
and to account its profits, pleasures, and honours poor and piti-
able things of vanity ; so that I can say, through grace, the
world dwindles and shrinks in comparison wit|i divine things,
and is more under my feet than it hath been. 16. My soul is
more mercifully assisted in the heavenly life of faith to commit
all my concerns to the Lord, and to trust him for provision.
Though my occasions of expence have increased, especially in
training up my two sons, hitherto God hath given supplies,
though I could not tell whence they would proceed. 17. My
affections are sometimes more weaned from, yet endeared to, my
relations by being more spiritualized ; so that I can now say,
through grace, I love God in them, and them for God's sake,
and enjoy more of God in conversing with them. 18. My soul,
I hope, enjoys more fellowship with God, since my heart more
closely adheres to him in duties and worship than formerly,
and I find larger seasonable supplies, and more meltings of heart
in public, private and secret, God giving me more frequent
visits, and dealing more familiarly with my soul : blessed be
his name. 19. My heart is more taken up with God's mercies,
and more exalted in his praises, so that my soid is more melted
and expanded in the duties of thanksgiving, both in ordinary
duties and on special occasions. Methinks, it is a little emblem
of heaven to be employed in God's praises. 20. The Lord hath
graciously sealed my soul unto the day of redemption, by giv-
ing me assurance of his love in Christ, and in vouchsafing to seal
the remission of my sins, so that sometimes I call God my Fa-
ther, rejoice in him as my portion, and delight my soul in the
Lord, and in believing anticipations of the beatific vision.
To these things I hope my heart echoes ; and though I dare
not boast that I love Christ more than others, yet I can, through
grace, appeal to my God that my soul doth love him in sin-
cerity. 1 know not how soon my God may possibly leave me
to temptation, darkness, deadness, or the commission of some
scandalous and conscience-wasting sin ; for when I am hig-hest
in my own conceit, I am nearest a fall. I have found by ex-
perience that God loves to shake my carnal confidence, yet for
2 E 2
420 EPISTLE TO THE READER
this I will not deny nor underrate the grace of God, nor obstruct
his praises ; for by the grace of God I am what I am. Though
I am vile yet my dear Lord hath been an indulgent God to me,
and hath made good his covenant and promises to my soul ;
and if the Lord should henceforth leave me to myself, and at
last cast me into hell, I will justify him. O my soul, who,
what art thou, that ever free grace should display itself before
thee ! What hast thou but what thou hast received .'* Grace
was at the foundation, grace has been in the progress, and grace
will be celebrated when the top-stone is brought forth. All
this goodness that God hath manifested, O my soul, makes thy
sins the more aggravated. Thou art still the greatest of sin-
ners and the least of saints. Give God all the glory, and take
thou all the shame to thyself. As God hath dealt bountifully
with thee, be more dutiful to him ; the more he hath given to
thee, the more let thy expenditure be for him, and be prepared
for his laying on thee a heavier hand than ever.
EPISTLE
TO THE READER OF
" ADVICE TO AN ONLY CHILD."
, —*•§*»—
Christian Reader,
This precious pearl of seasonable advice* providentially put
first into my hand, and now into thine, is of great worth, and the
rate thereof is enhanced not only by the worthiness of the Au-
thor, but by the importance of the subject matter, the manner
of handling it, and its great end and design. The Author was
a master in Israel, a star of the first magnitude, first placed in
• This Address was prefixed to a posthumous publication, entitled, " Advice
to an only Child," composed by the Rev. James Creswick, a Nonconformist
minister ejected from Freshwater, in Hampshire. Mr. C. was a native of
Sheffield and, we are told, a man of great abilities, well skilled in the learned
languages, and an accurate preacher. He was distinguished for his piety and
exemplary patience under a tormenting affliction. He used frequently to say:
"Lord, I am thine, and thou canst do me no wrong; I would rather have
health of soul in a body full of pain, than health and ease of body in a dis-
tempered soul." He died Feb. 1692, aged 75, at Beal^ in Yorkshire. The
Treatise above mentioned was published by fllr. Heywood. — Noncon. Mem.
vol. a. p. 266.
OF ADVICE TO AN ONLY CHILD. 421
a high elevation, to influence candidates for the ministry and
the academical sphere, thence translated by the ministerial
function into an ecclesiastical station, where he was a burning
and a shining light, till eclipsed with the rest of his ejected
brethren, but moved very regularly and profitably in a narrower
and obscurer orbit, till at last he disappeared to us, but shines
bright in the firmament of glory. A description of his exquisitely
painful disorder, (gravel) together with his invincible patience and
magnanimity, would make a volume ; his personal excellencies
as a scholar, as a minister, as a Christian, were beyond the vul-
gar rate ; and it is a pity the world is not blessed with more of
his learned labours, polished with his own hand, and squared
by this master builder for adorning the house of God. But his
modesty concealed something of what our zeal for public good
hath here presented to the reader, in its naked dress, as written
by his own hand.
As for the matter, it is the doctrine according to godliness,
the weighty things of law and gospel — covenanting with God,
the life of faith, of holiness as in God's presence, actings of
love to God and Christ, universal obedience, circumspect walk-
ing, dying daily, repentance, delighting in God and his ways,
thankfulness, prayer, &c. You may find in this treatise an
excellent Encyclopaedia or universal scheme of practical divinity :
couched in a few words, in a plain method laid before the eyes
of the intelligent reader.
The manner of handling this useful tractate is pleasant and
alluring, and adds a peculiar accent and emphasis to it ; such
a smooth style, such fit and proper similitudes, and delightful
allusions, that it will chain the reader's eye to proceed in read-
ing, and may perhaps charm his affections to embrace the con-
tents thereof : "It is as apples of gold in pictures of silver,"
Prov. XXV. 11 ; that is, golden apples appearing through net-
work of silver, or pourtrayed on silver tables, very delightful
and grateful to the eye ; so may these words fitly spoken be to
youth : and, " as an earring of gold and an ornament of fine
gold," so may this wise reprover be upon an obedient ear :
happy is the teacher who mixeth what is pleasant and useful.
The design, I am sure, is high and noble, to plant grace in
young persons, and to produce and feed a nursery of plants of
renown, to stock the church and world with a springing-up ge-
neration, in the room of old trees transplanted into a better
soil; that may fill up vacancies and do God service in after
times : amongst the rest of Solomons sumptuous preparations
of costly ornaments for his pleasures, that which he mentions,
was not the least : " I made me pools of water, to water where-
422 EPISTLE TO THE READER
with the wood that bririQ-eth forth trees," Eccles. ii. 6 ; this was
an artificial means of nourishing fruit trees, in want of natural
showers of rain from the clouds, which sometimes was rare and
scant : and it is worth observing, that the word rendered pools,
is the same as blessings, in Hebrew, either because in hot
countries they were esteemed great blessings, or because they
were filled with rain which is a valuable blessing of God. Such
pools, as this small treatise, are signal blessings in themselves ;
and when they are also seconded with the heavenly dew of
divine benediction, what a wood or forest of fruit-bearing trees
may we see flourishing within the limits of God's church ? It
is true, men may do something, yet not all. The best human
cultivation bends the trees but to an outward compliance; divine
grace alone plants them in Christ, and plants grace in their
hearts. The pupil Joash was hopeful whilst his reverend tutor
Jehoiada instructed him, 2 Kings xii. 2 ; but after his death
discovered the rottenness of his hypocritical heart. God will
demonstrate a vast difterence between the efficient cause and
the subordinate means ; therefore some miscarry under religious
education, but some prove well, to encourage parents and mas-
ters in their duty : divine benediction with paternal instruction
hath done great things. Let Abraham command his children,
God undertakes " they shall keep the way of the Lord,'' Gen.
xviii. 19 — " The rain also filleth the pools,"" Tsal. Ixxxiv. 6.
or, benedictionibtis amk-ietiw doctor;^ the Eternal Majesty will
make their pools of water great blessings to men.
Did parents conscientiously instruct their children, they would
in God's time discern the blessed effects thereof Mr. Baxter
thinks, religious education would be so blessed by God for con-
version, that a public ministry would be chiefly useful for edi-
fieation. It is true, grace comes not by succession, yet often in
succession ; the covenant is with the godly and their seed; and
surely it is not an insignificant cypher : as God delights to run
along the line of the gospel covenant, so he usually blesseth his
own institutions with gospel gi'acc : let parents do their duty,
and leave their issue to God : our children have souls as well
as bodies, both must be cared for, nature enjoins nurture, grace
regulates it, God alone makes it eihcacious. Corrupt nature
leaves children not a whit better than a wild ass's colt, Job xi.
12 ; a habit of sinning makes them like a wild ass, used to the
wilderness, that snuficth up the wind at her pleasure, in her
occasion who can turn her away ? Jei*. ii. 24. Education must
be as a guide and bridle, to teach and tame those frolicsome
youths : but alas ! most parents cast the reins on children's
* The instructor shall he clothed with hlcssings.
OF ADVICE TO AN ONLY CHILD. 423
necks, and leave them to their licentious ways, till at last they
get the bits between their teeth, and kick off' the rider, and
ramble in forbidden paths, till they are impounded in a prison
here, and in the dungeon of hell hereafter. Solomon saith,
" The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself,
bringeth his mother to shame," Prov. xxix. 15. Is not crying
heire better than wailing in eternal torments ? Even the hea-
then Sefieca could say, Discvplma scvera firmat ingenia, et
apta reddit jnagnis co7iatib7cs ; * is it not a pity such inge-
nuous youths should be lost for want of instruction and cor-
rection ? Let parents and governors tremble, lest the blood of
relations should lie at their door, and both be tormented for
wilful neglects : even heathens had great care of children's edu-
cation, it was actionable in the law courts among the Romans
to neglect this ; yea, if the son was profligate, the father was
sued, since it was supposed the son's miscarriage was through
the father's default : but that might be a mistake. Yet God
that sees all things, and whose judgment is always according to
truth, will commence a suit against, and condemn the careless
parent. Lord, when will parents have as much care of their
children's souls as bodies ? Yea, express as much tenderness
to a child as to a brute ! You labour hard to provide for them
food and raiment, to put them into callings, that they may live
like men in the world ; and are their souls of no worth ? Is
there not another world worth thinking of, and looking after ?
Have you not many helps, the bible, catechisms, good books,
and ministers to move, admonish, and instruct you in training
up your children ? Do you not engage to do this for them at
their baptism ? Could you be content to see a mastiff dog drag
away your child to devour him, and not stir a foot, or speak a
word to rescue him ? O miserable parents ! O cruel tigers !
Worse than sea-monsters, " that draw out the breasts, that give
suck to their young ones," Lam. iv. 3 ; they have not a word to
speak, not a breath to breathe in prayer, not a hand to reach
out to them, to pluek them from tliis Cerberus, this dog of hell !
Oh, where is gTace, yea, where is nature ? The Lord pity those
merciless parents : for shame learn your duty, and do it, and
take this book for a help.
And you«.that are children, if parents neglected their duty,
do not you neglect God and your souls : they look no further
than your preferment in the world ; but do you look after an
everlasting happiness in the other world: some commended
Patricius, Augustine's father, for educating his son a scholar,
who became so famous a father in the church; "Alas !" said he,
* Severe discipline strengthens genius, and prepiares it for great undertakings.
424 EPISTLE TO THE READER
*' my fiithcv thought only to make me a rhetorician, not a
Christian, for he was a heathen." But wliatever your parents
trained you up for, law, or physic, or a trade, study Christianity :
if your parents were carnal, lament it, exercise faith in Christ,
that guilt may be taken oft' from your father's house, and dou-
ble your diligence for your own soul, and for your children.
If your parents were pious, devoted you to God, set you a good
example, instructed and prayed for you ; O make much of the
covenant of parents, plead it, embrace it, and see that your
heart and life be squared by it, else your privileges will be a
testimony against you another day. Ambrose, bishop of Milan,
tells us, that in the primitive times, a stole, or white garment
was put upon the party baptized ; and the minister said, " take this
white and immaculate vestment, and see that thou bring it forth
without spot at the judgment seat of Christ : " withal he tells of
one Elpidophorus being baptized, and afterwards proving a pro-
fane wretch; the minister produced this garment, saying, " this
linen, which is witness of thy apostacy, shall accuse thee at
Christ's coming." You young people, esteem it a great privilege,
that you were introduced into the visible church by baptism, and
indeed it stands in good stead in your infant state, by virtue of
your parents' covenant ; but being grown up, you stand upon
your own legs, and must personally renew your baptismal co-
venant, or expect no benefit by it. Baptism will not save you,
without the answer of a good conscience ; the laver of regene-
ration will not avail to adult persons, without the renewing of
the Holy Ghost : you must be born again of water, and of the
Spirit, or you cannot enter into the kingdom of God : to which
Austin subscribes, saying, Nihil profuit Simoni Mago visibilis
baptismus cui sanctificatio invisihilis desit;* you know Simon
Magus was in the gall of bitterness, and bond of iniquity, though
he was baptized : you are however to bless God for external
privileges and religious education, they are signal mercies, not
common to all. Bucholtzer thanks God that he was brought up
under Melancthon; Mr. Whately, under Mr. Dod; yea, a Plato,
that he was pupil to Socrates. But rest not here, be not satis-
fied unless the unfeigned faith dwell in you also, which was in
your pious ancestors : mind their godly examples, and do not
counteract them. A king of Poland was wont to carry the
picture of his renowned father on a plate of gold about his neck,
wlien he went on any notable expedition ; kissing it, he said,
"God grant that I may do nothing remissly, or unworthy of
so good a father :" so be you followers of them, who through
• Visible baptism availed nothing to Simon 3Iagiis, in whom in%asible sane-
4ilicatiou was wanting.
OF ADVICE TO AN ONLY CHILD. 425
faith and patience, do now inherit the promises ; only be not
content to be apish imitators of their outward acts, but see that
you have the same spirit of faith, and love, and fear of God,
the same repentance, and new obedience ; think you hear your
dying parents charging you, (as Mr. Bolton did his children)
that none of you presume to meet them at the great day, with-
out a wedding-garment. To this end, attend daily on a power-
ful ministry, examine your consciences by the word of God,
pray much in secret, be humble and docile, disdain not to
learn catechisms, watch against occasions of sin, and improve
christian society ; keep a conscience void of offence towards
God and man; read, meditate on, and labour to understand
and practise, scripture truths and rules ; study to do all the good
you can, and be useful in your generation.
But I shall detain you no longer in the porch, I humbly
desire you to read and study the following treatise, which
though short, is yet pithy, accurate, and sententious, and will,
like a clue, lead thee through the labyrinths and meanders of the
world ; omit the reading of it, and thou art a loser; read it slightly,
and thou gainest no good ; act contrary to it at thy peril, these
sheets will rise up in judgment against thee another day. My
earnest prayer, following this and other soul-helps, is, that the
God of all grace would stamp his blessed image on the souls of
the rising generation, awaken their consciences, enlighten their
minds, renew their natures, subdue their wills, raise their affec-
tions to heavenly objects, in order that they may fill up our
stations when our heads are laid in the silent dust, and may see
better days, and have better hearts, to improve all occurrences
to better purpose, than we that are now going off the stage; and
thus, good reader, I take leave, wishing thee much content and
advantage in reviewing these spiritual flowers, gathered out of
the scripture garden : as being
Thy soul's friend, and servant in Christ,
O. HEYWOOD.
426 ORIGINAL LETTERS.
LETTERS
To Mr. Eliezer Hey wood — To the Rev. Tkos. JoUie-
To Ralph Thm'esby^ Esq.
The circle of Mr. Hey wood's friends and acquaintance was un-
usually large, and his epistolary correspondence very extensive.
Had a selection of his letters been made soon after his decease,
probably it would have been interesting and acceptable ; but at
this distance of time such an object cannot be secured, however
desirable. The few that have been preserved from the ravages
of time, are now presented to the Public. The first six letters
in the following series, were copied from the originals by the
Writer of Mr. Heywood's Life. For the remainder, addressed
to Ralph Thoresby, Esq. the able and faithful historian of
Leeds, the Public are indebted to W. Upcott, Esa. of the
London Institution, and gi'ateful acknowledgments are due for
his liberality and kindness in permitting copies to be taken
from the originals in his possession. The Editor of Mr. Hey-
wood's Works, is also, in this place, desirous of acknowledging
his numerous obligations to his worthy and highly esteemed
Friend, the Rev. Isaac Mann, A. M. minister of the Baptist
chapel. Maze Pond, London, not only for procuring copies of
the last mentioned letters, but also for his valuable assistance,
afforded con amove throughout the progress of this publication.
LETTER I.
TO MR. ELIEZER HEYWOOD.
My Dear Son,
It is now towards a fortnight, since I wrote to you
and desired an answer, whether you could supply for me when
I go into Lancashire, May 21st. I should be glad to have
your company thither about the 15th, or 16th of May, and so
come back that week to my house, because you can ride better
ORIGINAL LETTERS. 427
than I. I desired you would send my manuscript to Mr. Tay-
lor with all speed you can. I had a letter from him, telling
me if it come not shortly it will be too late, they will be gone
into the country. I had another letter from Mr. Parkhurst,
who is willing to print it,* only would see it first. I have a
lovely company of liopefvd young men, with whom I was yester-
day, and preached to them. You are upon our hearts for per-
sonal concerns and ministerial. Your age calls for settlement
in the world ; I am full of cares for you. Our svipper day is
Lord's day sevennight, the fast is the Wednesday after. I shall
be glad of your company and assistance any time. You are both
dear to me. My love and service to Mr. and Madam Taylor,
Your endeared father,
OL. HEYVVOOD.
April 25th, 1693. The very day of )
my marriage to your mother, A.D. 1655, >•
38 years ago, called St. Blark's day. j
LETTER IL
TO THE SAME.
My Dear Child, March 16th, 1697.
I received your letter this day sevennight and am glad
m^ine is acceptable to you, I pray it may be profitable ; you are
much upon my heart. Yesterday, (which was the day of my
baptism sixty-seven years ago,) I spent the forenoon in secret
and solemn addresses to my dear Lord, and had sweet enlarge-
ment and great encouragement concerning my own soul, sons,
and the church ; and as I have great comfort in you, so you
may conclude I shall do any thing in the compass of my power
for you. I think I shall leave you (after mine and my wife''s
death,) as much as your brother, through the blessing of God ;
though your two grandfathers entailed all upon my eldest son
at my first marriage. When I have accomplished this bargain,-f-
I shall cancel what in Little Lever your brother made to you.
I need not remove to greater places for worldly incomes, I have
as much as I desire, more than 1 expected, and contrary to
what I have deserved ; let mine and others learn to trust God
in the way of duty, by my example. God hath given me an
agreeable wife, a pleasant habitation, a competent income, an
affectionate people, health of body, and a contented mind. O
* Probably his work entitled, The Best Entail,
■f Purchasing a small estate in Holdsworth.
428 ORIGINAL LETTERS.
who am I that he hath brought me hitherto ! J. P. is my
faithful, prudent friend, and compensates the loss of his father,
once kind, now a stranger, still a hearer and free contributer.
I have learned Micah vii. 5. My humble service to Mr. and
Madam Taylor, whom I include in my poor devotions, and
bless God for their exceeding usefulness and tenderness towards
you. Do not doubt their future care of you, which will be re-
compensed into their own bosoms and their lovely daughter's,
whom I hope God will bless and well dispose of — she remembers
our tantivy to Ferry Bridge. I long to come to Walling Wells
once again while I live, but know not when, or how that can be.
Methinks I earnestly desire your return, and long to see you. I
am sorry Mr. Westby gives up house. Mr. Isaac Bates was
here last week, and tells me sad stories which afflict me. He hopes
you will do something for him ; if you can get him a place I
think you will not be discredited by him. Give my service to
Mr. White ; I hope the executors of Lord Wharton will make
something of it in time. My poor neighbours Stocks are not
fully paid for building Halifax chapel ; they that should be
active are slack and selfish. Hithei-to they have lived upon
gift-preaching : I was there the other Lord's day, but resolve
to keep at home. I think by this, my little kinsman is gone to
Mr. Frankland's. I have prefixed an epistle to a piece of Mr.
Frankland's against Socinians ; Francis Bentley will get it
printed. I am to preach a funeral sermon for little John Simp-
son to-morrow at Warley ; every day produceth new work.
Young Josiah Stansfield is gone up again to London, and is in
danger of losing ^^500. by two merchants gone off, pray inquire
for him.* Money is scant, trading bad, people are breaking
weekly, assessments heavy, poverty comes like an armed man ;
it is a wonder the country is quiet. God rules the raging sea
and the tumult of the people. Buy but six oranges and six
lemons since they are so dear, and send by Holmes at the
White Horse in Cripplegate, who comes next week, or Kershaw
at the Bell in Wood Street. Be sure you mention not me, but
direct what you send only to the shop of Jonathan Priestley,
Jun. in HaUfax. I hope Miss Archer, (to whom give my ser-
vice) will not forget poor Mercy and her children ; I have one
to pay for at our school. I am glad you are so well employed,
I leave my charges on you. Give my service to Mr. Burgess,
and to INIr. Vincent when you see him. We are working for a
Master that gives good vales, and will pay well at last. I tire
you, pardon the excrescences of my love. This is all from
. Your endeared father, OL. HEYWOOD.
• 3Ir. Eliezer Heywood was in London at this time with Mr. Taylor's family.
OllIGINAL LETTEllS. 429
LETTER III.
TO THE SAME, OX THE BIRTH OF HIS FIRST SOX, OLIVER.
My Dear Child, March Uth, 1101 .
I received yours dated Marcli 8th, upon Tuesday,
March 11th, and was greatly rejoiced with the contents of it,
that God hath so graciously answered prayer, and brought your
wife through her straits so mercifully, and brought a living, per-
fect child into the world, a third O. H. ; the first was dead be-
fore I was born, but a gracious and now glorified saint. Your
son was born about the time of the year I came into the world,
for I was baptized Marcli 15th, 1629, and guess my birth was
about a week before. I was helped on Wednesday forenoon to
pay vows, dedicate you and yours to God, and hope he may
bear up God's name as well as mine in the world and church.
God Almighty write a law of thankfulness on all our hearts !
My sweet daughter knows something of the pangs of natural
birth, may she know the sharp throes of one spiritual, then she
is safe for eternity ! My wife and I sympathize in griefs and
joys, quasi pectora copulata. I bless God we are in tolerable
health, shortwindedness in walking is all my malady, I can
study as long and preach as loud as formerly. The public na-
tional fast will be on Friday, April 4th. My wife is too care-
ful of me, and would have me to get some assistance that day.
I know none I can procure except you be at liberty that day ;
since you are Individuum vagum, if not engaged and can leave
your wife, your help will be very acceptable. Pray send me
word in time whether you can come. This is a snowy morning
and I confess summer is not come ; use your liberty, I hope I
can make shift, God assisting. I am glad you are sensible of
an untoward heart; it is my disease and the chief spiritual
malady I am pestered with. I am writing a treatise on Christ's
Intercession, that is our cure, let us learn to trust in him. My
dear love to your father and mother Rotheram ; I am deeply
obliged to them for their tender care of mine and their own.
I am sorry Mr. White is so indisposed and his lady ; we think
of them. Pray if you see old Mr. White, give my service to
him, and know the result of my letter to him which he sent to
London. Thank Madam Taylor for chocolate. I doubt not
but you are dissettled and uneasy till you get to your own
house ; so am I till I get home to the rest above. God enable
us to serve our generation according to his will ! I received
a letter from your brother with yours on Tuesday night which
430 OllIGINAL LETTERS.
heightened my joy, tliat I have two sons hopeful Christians
and laborious ministers ; it is more to mc than if you were
princes, my heart is comforted in you whilst
I remain,
Your loving father,
OL. HEYWOOD.
LETTER IV.
TO THE SAME, OX THE DEATH OF HIS SON, OLIVER.
My dear Child, June 13th, 1701.
I received your letter from Pontefract, dated May
f26th, and was glad of your safe arrival at your own house. It
is a mercy you have a centre after your various circumferences ;
but your best centre is above, you must pitch your anchor with-
in the vail, Heb. vi. 19- When we think to settle ourselves
we are nearest dissettlement in this world. God hath already
shaken out a lovely branch of your new created family, the first
breach in mine for the last forty years. This is to train you
up under the cross, a wholesome lesson to keep you humble,
watchful, weaned from temporal things, and engage you more
to spiritual. My friends and relations praying with me and
for me, is the greatest kindness they can do me. I am in
tolerable circumstances ; my asthmatic fits afflict me, and con-
stant shortness of breathing, but I am studying sound, preach-
ing sound, thovigh not walking nor riding sound. IVIy last
and best journey will be to the up-hill city, where I long to be,
but am content to tarry God's time and do his work. O for
success ! My wife is in tolerable plight, blessed be God ! and
our neighbours, in whom I have much content. Old Mr. John-
son was here yesterday, and wants some help to pay debts.
What cause have I to admire divine providence to me and
mine, and I hope, divine grace ! I expect your brother daily to
take a journey into Lancashire. Have you spoken to your
brother, and appointed a time for an exercise here ? Mr. Water-
house was with us at the Lord's supper last Lord's day, and
preached in the afternoon, but his voice is below us ; he left
me a MS. concerning justification. Enoch Halstead is at last
come from Edinburgh, I doubt not much better. Mr. Noble
thinks of printing his other piece upon the Apocalypse ; but
nullus sum in propheiicis, etpuer in dogma ticis, et nolens in
ORIGINAL LETTERS. 431
polemicls, sed miens hi practicis ; seiicctute jam gravidua.^
My dear child, love God above all earthly enjoyments and re-
lations. Give up yourself to God, maintain frequent com-
munion with him, struggle hard with a bad heart, own grace
in all, aim at perfection, and God grant we may meet in glory
at last. My dear love with my wife's to you and our dear
daughter.
Your endeared father,
OL. HEYWOOD.
LETTER V.
TO THE UEVEREXD THOS. JGLLIE.-j*
Reverend and dear Brother, Oct. ^Ust. 1698.
My two sons came to me the other week, and brought
me your book on the Surry Demoniac from your son, as a
token from yovirself, for which I do here give you my hearty
thanks, and likewise for your kind letters sent to me, which
further endear my heart to you in friendship, which first com-
menced at Cambridge, where you were pleased to take notice of,
and take into your society, such a simple, raw lad as O. H. I
oft reflect, with comfort and gratitude, on the sweet opportimities
we had in your garret-chamber, and the heart-meltings under
Mr. Hammond's ministry, with whom I conversed, a fortnight
before he died at Hackney, whom we shall never see more in
this world ; and truly I despair of ever seeing you on earth, but
hope erelong to meet you in heaven, in the general assembly
above. I have not been a little both pleased and profited in
writing a small treatise upon 2 Thess. ii. 1, which I have de-
livered to my son for the press, and if it come out will send you
a copy. Next to meeting our dear Lord, this cheers me, that
we shall meet with our godly friends with better hearts, in a
better place and posture. In the meantime, there is a commu-
nion of saints, if not local yet real : we meet at the throne of
grace, conversing with our God, and thereby sending to each
other by the road of heaven ; yet these paper messages are not
insignificant. Your book (one would think) gives Z. T. his
death-blow, at least shuts his mouth. Your answers and argu-
ments are so cogent and pungent, your proofs and depositions
* I am no adept in prophecies, a child in doctrinal discussions, and indisposed
to controversy, but at home in things of a practical nature ; being now bur-
dened with old age.
•f- See another letter to Mr. Jollie, vol. iv. page 507-
43^ OIIIGINAL LETTERS.
so obvious and pertinent, except he find sometliing further to say
from Mr. Carrington I could have wished that something
had been forborne in his practice and your writing ; but God
will turn all to the best, when the devil and his agents have
done their worst. I have received a long letter from Mr. Stret-
ton, and am glad that Mr. Forbes of Gloucester and yourself
have accepted a call to carry on the correspondence. I have
written a large account of 19 congregations in our parts, but
whether we can maintain quarterly correspondence in our large
county, or send up delegates to London, I yet know not ; I
think letters may do. It is fit we do any thing we can, to pro-
pagate the gospel and reformation, yea, and union, though, alas,
we can do little, to cool or qualify the heats in the great metro-
polis which bode ill to the land : of old, British contests
brought on Saxon conquests. Alas, that good men should mis-
construe and mistake each other! Tantcene animis coelestihus
irce ! * Will there be anger or shame at ourselves for it in hea-
ven ? Methinks Gen. xiii. 7, 8. should shame or silence us.
But you and I have well agreed, and hope shall agree to the
end and in the end. You are the only brother in this world of
the old stock, left to
Your worthless brother.
Groaning for an exit,
OL. HEYWOOD.
LETTER VI.
TO THE SAME.
Reverend and dear Brother, Dec. 21, 1700.
I received yours dated Nov. 6, and immediately
transcribed and sent it to Mr. Whitaker and Mr. Dawson, ac-
cording to your order, got their hands, and this week received
it from your and my dear son in the gospel at AtterclifFe, with
a very affectionate letter to me whom he owns as his spiritual
father. Blessed be God for the grace of God in him, and his
singular usefulness in the church. We had sweet converse to-
gether in his last return from you, when he spent a Lord's day
with us. -f- They all approve of the expedient for the present.
I spoke to Mr. Priestley this week at my house, desired his
hand, and showed him your letter ; but he excused himself be-
ing a junior, and said it was fitter for senior ministers. I can-
* Can such resentment occupy celestial minds ? •)• See Page 315.
ORIGINAI- LETTERS.
liot but follow it with my wishes and prayers, that at last tlie
Lord wovild compose the spirits of my ancient friends in Craven.
We have another breach made in our parts, by Mr. Mattliew
Smith's preaching and printing a book against the imputation
of Christ's righteousness for justification ; that ariiciUus stan-
fis aut cadeiitis ecc/esiw, as Luther calls it. I am much con-
cerned about it, because it diverts people from the main practi-
cal things to endless disputes, besides the perniciousness of his
doctrine. I have charity for him, though some have not, and
others admire him. I bless the Lord we have peace amongst
our people. I have a gracious companion, hopeful sons, now
both married and comfortably settled, my body much at ease,
no violent pain, but coughing and short-windedness, yet capable
of preaching in my own chapel, but stir little abroad. I often
reflect on the sweet days we have had together in God's imme-
diate presence. It grieves me to hear of your painful disease,
and desire to be a sympathizer with you, and a pleader with
God for you, though I doubt not but you receive that divine
consolation which surmounts and drowns your bodily pains.
Dear brother, when you are near the throne remember me, who
have no outward affliction compared to a bad heart and too, too
much distance from that God who is my life, and with whom I
long to be, and would be making haste, having arrived at the
age of man.
Your ancient endeared brother in the Lord,
OL. HEYWOOD.
LETTER VII.
TO RALPH THORESBY, ESQ.
Honoured and dear Sir, Nov. 26, 1694.
Yours of Nov. 13. I received last Tuesday, and have
sent yours inclosed in a letter to Mr. Newcome with whom I
have some intercourse, and have re-enforced your motions to the
best advantage I could, though I am heartily sorry for what my
son John told me last Thursday night, that my Lady Wilbra-
ham, where good Mr. Illingworth was last, had told him she
must take another Nonconformist minister and his wife into her
house, and had no occasion for two chaplains, and desired Mr.
Illingworth to provide for himself, which some think he laid
so to heart that it shortened his days. I do question into
whose hands his books and papers are fallen, but if they can be
VOL. L 2 F
434 ORIGINAL LETTERS.
retrieved, you sliall have them. I hear nothing yet of my bro-
ther's hfe, yet had a letter on Saturday from my younger son at
London. I ordered him to go to Dr. Sampson about it, from
whom I have the contents of a curious MS. in 26 chapters, con-
taining the history of Nonconformity or Puritanism from the
davs of Henry VIII. to this day. If you have not seen it, I
will send it you, and beg your encouragement in his printing it.
I now bethink myself that you have not seen it, therefore I here
send you Dr. Sampson's letter and draught, desiring your return
of it after perusal. I have sent you Mr. Frankland's letter to
me after long search, and a catalogue of my poor weak labours.
I have done little concerning Mr. Sharp. You were mention-
ing a MS. of his upon Psalm xciv. 19 ; I long to see it, and
wish its printing. Mrs. Sharp saith, Mr. Hickson hath it.
Pray get it, and send it. I will promote it what I can. I
have lately written a Treatise on a Scriptural Fast, being de-
sired to do it. IVIy son John hath it. If I have any encou-
ragement, shall send it to the press. As for Mr. Stretton, my
son hath had some letters from him. He complains that the
shoemakers (I think) have taken their Hall from him, which was
his Meeting-place, so he is destitute, hath been quite out of em-
ploy five or six Sabbaths, and he thinks he shall have none ex-
cept he build one himself, for the people take no care. I am
glad you are so well fitted with Mr. Manlove : pray give my dear
love to him. My son John hath a motion to Pontefract. I
know not what to advise. He is now married, and likely to
remove from Ravenfield. I expect him and his wife to be with
me this week. My dear love and service, with my wife's, to
your wife, mother, brother, sister, &c. from
Your cordial friend, ready in all things to serve yours,
OL. HEYWOOD.*
These for his worthy and much liononrerl j
friend Mr. Ralph Th(>resl)y, at; his house in v
Leeds. j
LETTER VIIL
TO THE SAME.
Worthy and dear Sir, Nov. 25, 1695.
I received your letter of Oct. 8, some time after its
dating at Mr. Hough's, and that rich treasury of papers, which
* Appended to this letter, is a List of Mr. Hey^vood's Works in Mr. Thores-
bv's handwriting, the same as is given in the Edition now presented to the
Public, in which is included the " Life of the Rev. Nathaniel Hej'wood," as
Mr. O. Heywood's own production.
ORIGINAL LETTERS. 435
you were pleased to favour and honour me with, of worthy Dr.
Sampson's : and my daily pressing occasions have compelled me
to detain them longer than I was willing, but now send them
back to you by J. Baxter after perusal, and am glad the Dr.
proceeds in his resolution to print so incomparable a work. Mr.
Keyner's is well done, and that little of Mr. Bowles's I believe
to be true, but I question whether it be convenient to descend
to the particulars of diary. I had got something out, of my
reverend father Angler's, which the London ministers expunged.
I can say little of Mr. Ward : I spoke to Dr. Cotton, but he
doth nothing : nor of Mr. Newcome. As for Mr. Sharp and
Mr. lUingworth, your intelligence transcends mine. All I can
say is in my MS. of Mr. Sharp's funeral sermon, in Mr. Jollie's
hands. I am reading his Treatise on Psalm xciv. 19- If I
can retrieve any thing of Mr. John Leaver, Mr. Roger Bald-
win, Mr. Henry Pendlebury, worthy yovir acceptance, I shall
communicate it to you, that you may hand it to Dr. Sampson,
to whom give my humble service when you write to him. I am
glad you are so well employed, and do humbly present this
small Treatise of a New Creature to you, hoping for your can-
did acceptance and furtherance of its sale by John Whitworth.
My cordial love and service to your dear wife and mother-in-
law ; from
Your servant in the Lord,
These for Mr. R. Thoresby, > OL. HEY WOOD,
at his house in Leeds. \
LETTER IX.
TO THE SAME.
Honoured Sir, March 2nd, 1696.
Your kind letter I received by the hands of J. Baxter,
and thank you for the intelligence therein contained. But I
suppose the Parliament will find other work to do now than
to pick quarrels. My son in London has sent me a full account
of this helKsh confederacy, and I may truly call it devilish con-
spiracy which will be such a divertisement as to beget an employ-
ment, if they know their own and the nation's interest. But
my son at London signifies, there are eighty of them will not
join in association for the king ; some whereof are Yorkshire
blades, but doth not think fit to name them. It is astonishing
to find so many Jacobites. Tuesday morning, closet prayers
have already produced good success. I am no politician, but a
2 F 2
436 ORIGINAL LETTERS.
poor petitioner at the throne of grace. The Lord reignetli let
tlie earth rejoice ! God has graciously prevented the plot, for
which I hope a day of public thanksgiving will be appointed.
God's ministers and people had agreed to devote every Tuesday
morning, an hour to secret prayer, as foreseeing this by divine
instinct some months before, and all men see the open answer.
Let us bless our prayer-hearing, all-seeing, wonder-working
God, and act answerably. I could wish Mr. Manlove may re-
member his promise to me, for a meeting of ministers at Mill-
hiU in convenient time. My love to you and yours, I am in
haste, Your real friend,
O. HEYWOOD.
LETTER X.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, July 19^A, 1697.
I received the papers you sent me by J. Baxter, and
heartily thank you, that I am yet within the lines of communi-
cation ; for though Dr. Sampson do not write his letters to me,
but to you, (because he thinks you are more able to be at charges)
yet I have the benefit of them, but am sorry for the death of so
many good men. As to what Mr. Stretton writes in your case,
(I had a letter from him on another account last week,) I can
say little, not understanding what oaths are requisites for alder-
manship, but I have so much charity for you, that I presume
you will do nothing, but what you have good warrant to judge
lawful, yet I must caution you, (as I love you) to consult pious
christian friends — take God's word for your rule — pray devoutly
to God — renounce sinister ends — and design vdtimately the
glory of God, and you shall see God will lead you in the way
that you should choose. Walk close with God, maintain
daily communion with him and a sense of his omnipresence,
and mortify affections to the world's triangular baits. I confess
your parts and piety may both fit you for, and render you use-
ful in a more public station, and I shall be glad to hear of your
fair entrance on, and faithful management of such a degree, but
high places are tickle, et magistratus virum indicat. The
wise God direct you when such a case falls out, and I judge
myself bound to put you among the clients I am advocate for
at the throne of grace. But our Lord Jesus is chief advocate
in the court of heaven, retain him, and you will not miscarry.
ORIGINAL LETTERS. 437
I make bold to enclose these few lines by you to Dr. Sampson,
and commit you to the protection of the Almighty, with hearty
love, and my wife's to you, resting,
Your obliged friend,
O. HEYWOOD.
LETTER XI.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, Aug. 9th, 1697.
I am ashamed that I have not returned to you the
enclosed before this ; having been abroad and busy the two last
Mondays, I forgot to write by J. B. till it was too late, for
which I crave pardon. I now return it with thanks, and oft
think of Dr. Sampson, though I know him not : it would satis-
fy my curiosity to know how many meeting-houses there are in
London, and also in England. I would contribute what I know,
if the Doctor would do something. It would greatly tend to
God*s glory, in raising up such a number of young men as would
supply the breaches made. If you be alderman and mayor of
Leeds, I hope you will not forsake your old friends, or forget
that concern you have espoused. I am not able to advise, but
be sure you keep faith and a good conscience — act by scripture
rule — walk uprightly — maintain communion with God and his
people — and aim at God's glory ; and God Almighty bless you
and yours
So prays your obliged friend,
O. HEYWOOD.
LETTER XIL
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, Jpril 9, 1698.
Yours I received some time ago Pray, sir,
give ray service to Mr. Manlove; tell him I have redoubled
solicitations from Mr. Frankland to put us on, in Yorkshire, in
addressing the king ; I have written to Mr. Whitaker, but al~
438 ORIGINAL LETTERS.
turn silentium. I am willing, but cannot travel. My dear love
to you and yours. P'rom
Your cordial friend,
O. HEYWOOD.
P. S. I am mightily pleased with Mr. Manlove's book on the
Immortality of the Soul ,• pray give my service and thanks to
him. I am sure you have a great blessing in so worthy a man.
LETTER XIII.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, Jan. 8, 1699.
I am now in a capacity to perform my promise, ha\nng
last week received a parcel of the books from Mr. Parkhurst,
and send you one as a token of my affectionate respects to you.
I hope you received my brother's life, which I sent you, and if in
any thing else I be able to please or pleasure yours, you shall
command me. I have not found the letters you desired. Pray
give me notice, if you can, whether Dr. Sampson will print the
History of Puritanism. I want time to enlarge, only give my
dear love and service, with my wife's, to your wife, —
Resting your obliged friend.
O. HEYWOOD.
LETTER XIV.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, Feb. 5th, 1699-
I had notice by brother Baxter, that a leaf was want-
ing in Dr. Sampson"'s book ; I know nothing of it. I have en-
quired of Mr. Priestley to whom I lent it, and to his father, and
his brother Nathaniel. They remember there was a leaf loose,
but think none was lost in their hands. Sir, I am busy with
some lives of ministers, late of Yorkshire and Lancashire, but
am hindered by other occasions, but hope within this fortnight
or three weeks to send them. I want some help about Mr.
Cornelius Todd, where he was minister when he died. Mr.
Abrm. Sharp hath had his, brother's book and memoirs to tran-
ORIGINAI- LETTERS. 439
scribe two months ; hasten him. My soul desires your best
good. With service to you and yours,
Your observant friend,
O. HEY WOOD.
LETTER XV.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, Feb. ^^tk, 1699.
I have taken som.e pains, (more pleasure) in tran-
scribing the lives of these worthy men. I know I am defective
in giving a full account of them, but hope these short hints
will perpetuate their memory. You may please to adopt what
you think fit, and transmit them to Dr. Sampson, who I hope
will make haste to print his history. Some draughts of Mr.
Frankland's life are designed to be printed with his funeral ser-
mon, preached by Mr. Charlton ; I have helped what I can, yet
doubt nothing worthy of him, he having left us no memoirs
under his hand. You know Mr. Sharp better than I. I sent
his treatise long since to his brother to transcribe, but I per-
ceive he makes no haste. I have enquired of the fate of Dr.
Sampson's book, but can hear nothing of it. I am for sending
two young men to Mr. Manlove next week. One is a nephew
of mine, very hopeful, must follow them with my prayers.
When you write to the Dr. give my service to him. Mine,
and my wife's to you and yours, from
Your willing servant,
O. HEYWOOD.
LETTER XVI.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, Oct. 2nd, 1699.
I received yours, and thank you for your kind invita-
tion, but I am almost superannuated for distant journeys.
Most of my work lies in my study, pulpit, or about home. I
am concerned much for a fit man for INlill-hill, and hope you
put to your helping hand, and hope your heart is there though
440 ORIGINAL LETTERS.
your body be not always present with tliem. I cannot forget
you, for your dear father's sake, and your own, to whom I am
so much indebted, and endeared. Be sure you keep close to
God in spirit, wherein much of the life of religion consists.
I have this day made myself busy in transcribing these two
lives. Short memoirs are most proper, else I could have en-
larged. Pray when you write to Dr. Sampson, give my service
to him, tell him I doubt his book will not antedate his death,
except he make haste. I long, long for it. My dear love with
my wife's to you and yours,
Your assured friend,
O. HEYWOOD.
LETTER XVII.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, Dec. Wth, 1699.
I had intelligence that after the All-wise God had
thought fit to lay his afflicting hand upon yourself, and second,
and had graciously removed it from you, it pleased the Lord to
renew his witness against you and laid his afflicting hand upon
your children, and as I was informed plucked two out of your
bosom. I was much troubled at the tidings, having felt the experi-
ment of rending such members from my own body. I hope God
supports you and your dear companion. Yet that must not be all,
but a sanctified use of the hand of God is necessary, which con-
sists in, 1 . Reflecting on what we have done amiss, or been
short in our duty to God and men : and then, 2. Importunately
begging a pardon sealed to our consciences in the blood of
Christ. 3. Renewing our covenant of better obedience, and
more close walking with God in christian exercises, and in the
communion of saints. And, 4. A heart more mortified to
things below, elevation of our spirits to divine objects, prepara-
tory for death and eternity. Dear sir, I think I did send you
the short memoirs of Mr. Hawden's life ; if you have any thing
considerable from J\Ir. Sampson on Mr. Stretton, pray communi-
cate it, as I shall freely do to you what is worth my writing or
worthy your reading. I wish I were in a capacity to visit
Leeds, but I am prevented from travelling, being so exceedingly
shortwinded that I have much ado to get up stairs ; being
superannuated, I must confine myself to my study and pulpit
till laid in the dust, and am longing for celestial views, having
ORIGINAL LETTERS. 441
had my glut of days, travels, and difficulties in this lower world.
I desire your prayers for me and mine ; my dear love to you
and yours,
Your cordial friend and servant,
O. HEYWOOD.
LETTER XVIII.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, Jan. 18th, 1702.
I received your letter, whereby 1 perceive you have
been at our metropolis, and conversed with the grandees for
nobility and learning, who I doubt not have greatly added to
your soaring and profoundly searching speculations, which
possibly are edifying to you, but not much to me ; though de-
lightful to know om7ie scihile, as it is said of Jerome. Your
acquaintance with great personages I do not envy ; I read what
you write, but to me, one hour's communion with God, and my
improving my poor talent to gain souls for Christ, is all. I thank
you for Mr. J. Calvert's life, it came seasonably ; for I was send-
ing up to Mr. Calamy the Yorkshire and Lancashire ministers'*
lives to be appended to a book he prints of Mr. Baxter's life,
connected with the rest of the Nonconformist ministers in Eng-
land, all which I got copied out of my MSS. for I perceive Dr.
Sampson has committed his lives and papers to Mr. Tong of
Coventry, who lets them lie by him, and frames not to arrange
them. This book is in the press, and will be out shortly, and
this life of Mr. Calvert came but just in season, which I have
sent up last Tuesday by the carrier. I got the same hand
which copied out the former, to transcribe these, which I now
send by J. B. for I suppose you have not seen them, because
their deaths were of a later date. Mr. Baldwin, Mr. Pendlebury ,
Mr. Newcome, Mr. Seddon, all ancient, eminent ministers dead
in one years time, which made a great breach in that Salford
hundred. God Almighty fit us for that hour, that we may be
followers of them that, through faith and patience, inherit the
promises. My dear love, with my wife's to you and yours, ends
this trouble from
Your cordial friend,
O. HEYWOOD.
44^ ORIGINAL LETTERS.
LETTER XIX.
TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir, June 1701.
I must confess my fault, and crave pardon for not
answering your last letter some weeks ago. My multiplicity of
business, and multitudes of letters received and answered, if
known to you, would plead for me. I am satisfied about my
son Jolin''s allowance ; he has been here since. I have not yet
found the lost letters. I suppose we shall hear in a little time of
Mr. Tong's making something of Dr. Sampson's papers. Good
sir, study the word of God, gospel mysteries, and the treachery
of your own heart ; maintain secret communion with God, and
close fellowship and profitable improvement of communion with
saints. My dear love with my wife's, to you and yours, from
Your obliged friend,
O. HEYWOOD.
LETTER XX.
FROM MR. J. HEYWOOU RESPECTING HIS FATHER''s LETTERS
AND LIFE, TO MR. THORESBY.
Dear Sir,
I received the money you remitted by Mr. Reyner's
son, and thankfully return you the receipts as you desire. AVe
have not yet had time to look over dear father's MSS. and
bundles of letters, so cannot furnish you with any valuable
autographs, but when we do, assure yourself, I shall not be un-
mindful of obligations and promises. I am doing what I can
to forward my father's life, but necessary and unavoidable oc-
casions retard, nor do I find it so easy to do it to purpose, as
at first sight it might seem to be. I forwarded yours to Mr.
Croister, and now offer sincerest service to your good lady,
I am, Sir,
Yours to my power,
Sept, 2m, 1703. JOHN HEYWOOD.
ORIGINAL LETTEllS. 443
LETTER XXI.
FROM THE SAME TO THE SAME.
Dear Sir,
I thailkfuUy received both what you sent to me, and
your kind letter. I am indeed a poor crippled prisoner, hav-
ing by a fall dislocated the cap of my right knee ; whereby I
am laid aside as a vessel in which God has no pleasure, and of
no use, which is very afflictive, though I hope but for a season,
and the believing prayers of you and christian friends may for-
ward a cure. My present lameness, (being confined to my bed)
and severe indisposition under which I have laboured all this
winter, have very much taken me off my design of finishing
dear father's life. The hopes of obtaining any of Q. E's. auto-
graphs, I doubt are quite vanished, the opportunity being irre-
trievably lost. However mine, and my wife's sincere dues to
you and yours concluding this from, Sir,
Your afflicted servant,
April 2rd, 1704. J. HEYWOOD.
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♦ MEMOIRS
OF THE
EE V. NATHANIEL HE YWOOD,
JBini0tev of tibe CSoispfl
AT
ORMSKIRK, IN LANCASHIRE.
-H9i»-
Dedicated to the Right Honourable Hugh, Lord Willoughhy,
by Sir H. Ashhurst, Bart.
IDLE:
PRINTED BY JOHN VINT,
FOU THE EDITOR; FREDERICK WESTLEY AND A. H. DAVIS, STATIONERS'
COURT ; B. J. HOLDSWORTH, ST. PAUL's CHURCH-YARD ;
R. BATNES, PATERNOSTER-ROW, LONDON ; AND
D. BROWN, ST. Andrew's street,
EDINBURGH.
1827.
DEDICATION.
To the Right Honourable Hugh^ Lord WillougJihy, Baron
of Parham.
My Lord,
I TAKE the liberty to dedicate to your Lordship, some Memoirs
of the life of an excellent person, who was your countryman,
and one for whom your Lordship had a just esteem. It is
not to recommend to your Lordship any party of men among
us, but plain Christianity in legible and lively characters ; and
to remove a common objection against the most excellent pre-
cepts of our blessed Saviour, that they are hard sayings, and
impracticable things. Here in a very plain manner is presented
to your view, a minister of Jesus Christ, who had no other
design in the world, but that of doing good to mankind, and is
now partaking of the eternal joy of his Lord and Master, to
whom he was so entirely devoted. It is your Lordship"'s quality,
and ancient, and noble extraction that sets you above the com-
mon level of mankind, and draws the eyes of the world upon
you ; but there is somewhat greater, your exemplary piety and
zeal for our holy religion, (in such a degenerate and licentious
age,) and the countenance you give to serious piety, wherever you
find it among all the different parties into which we are so un-
happily broken, that makes you the ornament of your country,
and highly esteemed by wise and good men, and obliges me to
be with all imaginable respect,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's most humble
' And faithful servant,
H. ASHHURST.
THE
PREFACE.
X HE great God is clearly seen in the smallest things ; a poor
sparrow lighting on the earth, and a minute hair of men's heads,
are regarded by the Omnipotent Providence. How much
more doth the glorious Jehovah order the affairs of the children
of men, and most of all the concerns of his church which is the
sanctum sanctoi'um, the inmost circle of divine Providence ?
It is congruous to the church's state in this world to be militant ;
a lilly among thorns ; her husband was a man of sorrows, and
it becomes not his bride to be a wife of pleasures. If the head
was crowned with thorns, the members must not think much to
be conformable ; * if they do these things to the green tree,
what will they do to the dry .'* Nay, it is necessary and salutary
for this body to be purged ; this herb grows best when most
trodden down ; these vessels are brightest when most scoured.
There is great need that God's children should be in heaviness,
to poise their spirits, and prevent sensual indvdgence. The
vine must be lopt or it will grow wild ; corn-bearing fields must
be broken up. Afflictions never do the church hurt, but pros-
perity often lulls and rocks it asleep to its great prejudice, if
not its utter subversion. Ministers usually stand in the front and
are put upon the hottest service ; the fire is continually burning
on the brazen altar ; the priests of old must first enter Jordan,
and be the last standing in the midst thereof. -f- Satan's malice
is most levelled at them, and God usually furnishes them with
more magnanimity than others. He that still governs the world
with infinite wisdom, hath appointed to the sons of men their
pecuhar office, station, and employment in the world, and qualifies
them with gifts proportionably ; he manageth their work for them,
" Non oportet membra deliciari sub capite spinis coronato. + Josh. iii. 8 — 17-
]?REFACE. 449
prospereth their undertakings, accepteth their faithful service,
and will give them abundant recompence ; yea, their work is
their wages ; it comes with a supply of meat in its mouth. A
gracious heaven is tlie preludium of a glorious heaven ; there
is even much of glory upon a suffering INIinister or Christian ;
when they are loaded with aspersions and obloquy, even then
the Spirit of glory and of God resteth on them.* It is no dimi-
nution, but a manifestation of God's glory, when it shines through
the glass of creatures ; yea, the less of the creature's worth is
discovered, the more of God is illustrated. We have this
treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power
may be of God and not of us. King Solomon must have a
thousand, if vine dressers and fruit keepers have their two hun-
dred.f Let ministers be invisible, so Christ be illustrious. As
precious Mr. Wadsworth said, if God's work be done, I am con-
tent to be withdrawn out of sight. So some interpret that text,
John iii. 29 ; as though the friend of the bridegroom will not
be seen in the treaty, but he stands behind the curtain, and
hears the bridegroom's voice, and the bride's consent, and
greatly rejoiceth because the match is likely to go on. But
the more completely a minister is nothing in his own eyes, the
more doth God magnify him ; as the wife shines in the beams
of her husband's honour or riches, so also doth God in some
sense shine in his servants' gifts and graces ; our thoughts must
go beyond the gift to the giver. A clear transparent glass set
in the sun renders the sun m.ost refulgent, the crystal is scarce
visible, the sun is all ; yet to our eyes the radiant sunbeams
are more beautiful by the transmission through the glass, than
shining directly upon us ; but the glass gives net splendour to
the sun, it only receives all from him. Thus is Christ all in all,
and as these glasses are quickly broken and rendered useless, so
are ministers, but the sun remains in its motion and shines still;
for the sun depends not on the glass, but the glass on the sun ;
yea, God sometimes thinks fit to break the glass we are admir-
ing, that our eyes may be intent upon the Sun of Righteousness,
and behold all beauties in him., who is the Lord our righteous-
ness. God in wisdom hath thought fit to cause an eclipse in
the firmament of his church in these nations, by hiding many
* 1 Peter, iv. 14. f 2 Cor. iv. 7. Songs viii. 12.
VOL. I. 2 G
450 TREl-ACE.
liglits under a bushel, about thirty years ; and also translated
most of them unto an upper region, -wlicre they shine brightest
in their proper orbit, though " to us they disappear ; the break-
ing of the shell is the brightening of the pearl; they were never
so bright below as they are now above ; once they saw through
a glass darkly, now face to face ; and laying aside this glass,
face immediately they behold the glory of the Lord, and are
changed into the same image from glory to glory.*
These blessed souls now with God, are exposed neither to the
black mists of human ignorance, nor to the foggy vapours of
sinful defects, nor do they feel or fear any bespattering from
opprobrious scorners, or black-mouthed slanderers, but are re-
ceived up into heaven by this cloud of death, that hath hid
• them out of our sight, and hindered our converse with them ;
yet they have dropt the mantle of good exam])le, which still we
have ; and observant eyes, and diligent pens have drawn some
renowned champions in lively colours, in which we may be-
hold much of God's image in the face of their intercourse with
men, and conversation, both in their personal and public
capacities : this is a petty resurrection, and much good ser-
vice is thus done to succeeding ages, by which they being dead
yet speak ; yea, spiritual life is transfused to readers, through
the lines and leaves, transmitted to them ; blessed be God for
these famous heroes. If the Jews mentioned illustrious men
dead, with some distinguishing epithet, as Rabbi Hillel, of
blessed memory ; why should not the memory of the just still
be blessed .''•j- Certainly there is a vast difference in the ears
of Protestants betwixt blessed Bradford and bloody Bonner.
Men usually say when they have interred the remains of
their deceased relations, and left them in the dust, that they
have done their last office to them or for them. But I judge
that to be a gross mistake, for there are several offices to which
we are bound on their behalf 1. We ought to lament their
death as a sad loss to the church of God, (I speak of pious and
useful persons) decent funeral solemnities anciently lasted a
considerable time, as we find in scripture. | 2. Observing and
complying with the commands and the counsels of the departed,
as in the case of Joseph"'s brethren. 3. Giving them deserved
" 1 Cor. xiii. 12. 2 Cor. iii. 18. f Prov. x. 7. + Gen. 1. 10.
PREFACE. 451
Commendation. 4. Vindication of their reputation according to
truth. 5. Erection of monuments constructed for a memorial,
as Jacob's over RacheFs grave.* 6. Composition of funeral ele-
gies, as David's over Saul and Jonathan. 7. Owning our fathers'
God and covenant ; as Solomon was directed to do. 8. Mani-
festing evidence of the deceased's charity and piety as the
widows did in reference to Dorcas. 9- An exact imitation of
their praiseworthy acts, -f* 10. Communion with departed
saints, believing that they as such are rejoicing in their glory ;
hoping in a short time to be with them, thinking of them, study-
ing conformity to them, that we may do God's will on earth as
it is done in heaven. :J: 11. Yea, something is also due from
us, to the surviving relations of our pious deceased friends, as
David shewed kindness to Jonathan's seed. || All this, and
possibly more, without the imputation of saint worship, may
siffviving Christians do, when their religious friends and rela-
tions disappear in this lov/er world ; only let us not admire
them, but God in them, so saith the text 2 Thess. i. 10, "When
he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in
all them that believe." IMark it, God's holiest saints must not
be admired but God in them, our admiration must not respect
men simply, but be terminated upon God through them ; crea-
ture worship is very natural to us, especially if we see more
than ordinary excellence in the creature, or receive some singu-
lar benefit thereby. The great apostle John was twice guilty
of angel adoration, and was twice admonished against it. Eut
doubtless it is a good practice, and no despicable office of sur-
viving friends to commemorate the imitable acts of departed
Ministers or Christians of considerable eminence and figure in
the church. This is my apology for writing this history, know-
ing how acceptable it will be to christian friends, natural rela-
tions, and to the church of God ; indeed he was amiable to all,
and very imitable in the passages of his life, and the circum-
stances that relate to his death ; of what was praiseworthy in
him, let God have the glory ; and over what is defective in
the copy or transcriber let charity draw a veil.
* Dent, xxxiv. 10. Gen. xxxv. 20.
t 2 Sam. i. 17. 1 Kings iii. C. Acts ix. 39. Heb. vi. 12.
+ Heb. xii. 22. || 2 Sam. ix. I -.5.
2 G 2
452 PREFACE.
I do find that the servcants of God have been very careful
and particular in writing the lives of eminent men, as Camerarius
wrote the life of Luther ; Junius, of Ursin ; Beza, of Calvin ;
Antonius Taius, of Beza ; Josias Simlcrus, of Peter Martyr ;
Dr. Humphrey, of Bishop Jewell, &c. Melchior Adamus hath
summed them up together, and Mr. Samuel Clark hath made
a large collection ; neither the Person described, nor the Writer
being on a level with those men of God, it doth make me blush
to appear in this undertaking, especially in so critical an age as
the present ; but this I dare say, the subject or person treated
of, was full of good works, and he that treats thereon is full of
good will.
Nor have I related all that might have been written, or that he
himself wrote, judging it not convenient because it might be of-
fensive. Take this in good part, live up to it, pray for the
weak transcriber, and beg hard that God would raise up many
masters in Israel, to make up this and other vacancies made of
late by the death of eminent ministers, which seems to be a sad
omen and dreadful prognostic of some desolating judgment ap-
proaching ; for our defence is departing from us ; the chariots,
and horsemen of Israel are ascending in a fiery chariot ; stakes
are taken out of the hedge, that wild beasts may enter ; pillars
are removed, the house totters, we have lost much good blood,
Jacob's face looks pale. May our dear Lord once, at last, re-
store his ministers to their public employments, pour out a
spirit of prayer, cause sinners universally to be cast into the
mould of the gospel, and revive a work of reformation, that the
promise, Isa. xxix. 22, 23, may be performed, " Thus saith the
Lord, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob,
Jacob shall not now be ashamed neither shall his face now wax
pale. But when he seeth his chlidren, the work of mine hands
in the midst of him, they shall sanctify my name, and sanctify
the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel.""
Amen, so be it.
March 29///, 1694.
A
SHORT HISTORICAL ACCOUNT
OF THE
Hife anti ©catlj
OF THE
REV. NATHANIEL HEY WOOD
Mr. Nathaniel Heywood was born in Little Lever,
in the parish of Bolton-le-Moors in Lancashire. His pa-
rents, Richard and Alice Heywood, were pious and re-
spectable ; he was baptized in the parish church, Sept.
16th, 1633. During his infancy he was exceedingly
weak and sickly, he was much afflicted with fits of con-
vulsion, and frequently under the sentence of death in
the apprehension of all around him ; his tender hearted
parents often gave him up for gone, but God, who
quickeneth the dead, brought him from the gates of the
grave, that by him he might raise sinners from a death
in sin to spiritual life. Nevertheless those violent
fits, did so weaken his spirits, that in his younger days
it was not judged eligible that he should be trained up
for the ministry, and therefore his parents frequently
took him from school, and occupied him in learning to
write and cast up accounts, for the purpose of sending
him to London to be an apprentice. But his natural
strength having been recruited, and they being en-
couraged by his extraordinary capacity for learning,
kept him still at school, having the advantage of a
454 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
learned and diligent master near them, who advised
them to educate him as a scholar ; especially from ob-
serving his inclination bent that way. At last they
resolved upon it ; and when he had passed his juvenile
studies at school, after making great proficiency, not-
withstanding frequent interruptions, he was thought
prepared for the university at fourteen years of age ;
whither he went, and was admitted May 4th, 1648,
into Trinity College at Cambridge ; he was well ap-
proved for his school attainments ; and devoting him-
self to his studies, he performed the usual exercises with
applause ; he had good natural abilities, a quick ap-
prehension, solid judgment, and tenacious memory,
which seldom meet in one person ; he was qualified to
manage what he undertook with great readiness and
facility; so that he profited in academical learning
beyond his equals.
As for religion, as yet his heart was not seasoned
with a principle of saving grace ; though he was reli-
giously educiited, united in holy exercises, loved God's
jjeople, and was not tainted with gross immorality ;
yet he had not discerned the evil of sin, the malignity
of his nature, or the necessity of Christ, till he was
providentially brought under the ministry of Mr.
Hammond, Fellow of Magdalen College, preacher at
St. Giles's, through whose plain and powerful preach-
ing, his mind became the subject of strong convictions,
which cost him many sad thoughts of heart, as well as
tears, but ended at last in a genuine conversion, in sin-
cere covenanting with God, and in centring his soul by
faith on Jesus Christ. Then he associated with serious
Christians, and walked exemplarily ; he however com-
plained of his backslidings, of which he repented, and
his soul was healed. When he had taken his degree,
he went to London, and there heard Mr. Peter Sterry ;
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD. 455
and was much pleased with his talents and manner of
preaching.
When he came down into the country, his father
judged it convenient to place him under the tujtion of
some reverend minister, by whose care and examj)le he
might be prepared for further service. And it pleased
God, in his providence, to settle him in the family of
that solid and judicious divine, Mr, Edv/ard Gee, mi-
nister of Eccleston ; where he continued two years
studying hard, behaved himself orderly, and profited
much : so that he often blessed God for the good he
received in that family. And indeed he was moulded
into the method, manners, and practice of that holy
and eminent man of God, whose excellent treatises on
Prayer and Government speak his real worth. He was
a man distinguished for his learning, orthodoxy, and
holiness; a most judicious, scriptural preacher ; son to
that famous Mr. Gee mentioned by historians in the
fall at Blackfriars.
Whilst Mr. Hey wood lived in Mr. Gee's family, God
directed his thoughts to a young gentlewoman in the
neighbourhood. Miss Elizabeth Parr, a relation to Dr.
Parr, Bishop of the Isle of Man, whom in convenient
time he married, and she became a pious, prudent, pro-
vident wife to him, by whom he had several children,
six of whom are yet living — two sons and four daugh-
ters ; his eldest son succeeded in his father's place as
pastor in the newly erected meeting-house, a young
man of great accomplishments and exemplary piety.
When Mr. Heywood was married, it pleased God to
give him a call to a people in Yorkshire : for he had a
great desire to be employed in his Lord's work, and
the very day that an invitation came to him, he told
the messenger, he had been spending most of it in fast-
ing and prayer, wherein he found his heart much en-
456 LIFE OF THE UEV. N. HEYAVOOD.
larged, and therefore he looked upon that Call as an
answer of prayer, and on that account freely embraced
it, and in due time took his departure.
The place to which he was called was Illingworth
chapel, in the vicarage of Halifax, Yorkshire. When
he had preached a day or two with them, the people
laid hold of him, and engaged him to settle with them,
which he did. He continued three or four years, and
was an instrument of much good in that place, having
a full auditory, and some seals of his ministry. But
Satan envying the success of the gospel, raised up some
potent adversaries against him, who maligned and op-
posed him for the faithfulness of his plain admonitions.
Some meetings took place about his continuance. One
said to him, Mr. Heywood, you have raised differences
and disturbances since you came. He answered, I have
not sought the peace of the place, but the good of it.
Which the man ruminated upon, but could not tell
what to make of that expression ; not remembering
that the principal design of the gospel and its publish-
ers, is the good of souls, but the accidental fruit of it is
dissension, through the corruption of men's hearts, ac-
cording to what our blessed Lord expressed: " Think
not that I am come to send peace on earth ; I came not
to send peace but a sword."* During this controversy
about his stay or removal, an earnest request was sent
to him by the people of Orms-church to come among
them ; he hearkened to them, having several discou-
ragements at Illingworth, which cannot here be named,
notwithstanding some cordial friends in that congrega-
tion adhered closely to him, and claimed an interest in
him ; both parties using more than ordinary arguments
and importunity, did exceedingly perplex him, and put
him upon the rack of suspense. He earnestly sought
* JMatt. X. 34, 35.
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD. 457
God about it; he begged the advice and prayers of
friends, and at last was counselled to refer the business
to several ministers indifferently chosen by both par-
ties, to hear what could be said, to obtain a knowledge
of circumstances, and give their decision in this weighty
case: indeed a third put in an earnest plea for him,
namely, Thornton, in Bradford parish, but the contro-
versy lay chiefly between Ormskirk and Illingworth.
Ministers met relative to this concern at Wigan, in
Lancashire, in January, 1656, with two or three of
the inhabitants of those three forementioned places :
much debate there was, and some hard words passed ;
the business was difficult and cost many hours' dis-
course, both during the day and in the evening ; and
upon a serious view of the reasons on all hands, at last
the ministers concluded, that his way was clear to
leave Yorkshire and remove to Ormskirk, which being
a great parish, and a considerable market-town, the
people not only being destitute but very importunate,
they judged that he might do God and his church more
service in that great place. And, indeed his own in-
clinations carried him most that way, for some parti-
cular reasons. He removed with his family thither in
the spring, 1657, where he was received with much
respect and great solemnity : and there he laboured
faithfully and diligently in the course of his public
ministry, his private instructions, and his visiting of
the sick, till August 24, 1662 — that black doom's day,
on which so many were sentenced and struck dead in
law as to any public service.
The annual income of this vicarage was very small,
not amounting to above £30. a-year; but there was an
exhibition of £50. a-year granted by queen Elizabeth
for an itinerant preacher, which exhibition had been
long enjoyed by the minister of that place. There
458 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HE Y WOOD.
were four of them in Lancashire, of which this was
one, and £200. per annum was allowed out of the
revenue for them, which was paid by several trustees
at the audits.
At the return of king Charles II. one Mr. Stanning-
haugh, minister of Aughton, about two miles from
Ormskirk, when receiving £l48. a-year, rode up to
London, and by the help of friends, surreptitiously ob-
tained the annuity of £50. to be settled upon himself;
which gave occasion to some persons to reflect on a
sermon Mr. Heywood preached at Ormskirk, on a day
of thanksgiving for the the king's restoration from
2 Sam. xix. 30, " And Mephibosheth said unto the
king, yea, let him take all, forasmuch as my lord the
king is come again in peace unto his own house :"
which was indeed an excellent discourse greatlj^ ap-
proved, and highly aj^plauded by all ; especially the
gentry, who earnestly solicited him to publish it, but
he refused, not out of disloyalty, but modesty; not be-
cause he durst not own his sovereign, but because he
was not willing to expose himself to observation.
Mr. Heywood bore this disingenuous carriage of his
neighbour and pretended friend with great equanimity
and calmness, which proved a curse to the one and a
blessing to the other ; for though this Mr. Stanning-
haugh's living was £l48. a-year, and his tenement
worth £30. yearly, besides the annual grant of £50.
and though he had no child, yet he left nothing at his
decease but debt, and his wife in j)oor circumstances.
But it pleased God, from that time, to bless Mr. Hey-
wood's small income wonderfully, and it is next to a
miracle to consider what great things he did. When
shortly after he was turned out of all, he paid some debts
and maintained his numerous family in great decorum,
(for he had nine children, of whom six are yet living)
LIFE OF THE RET. N. HEYWOOD. 459
look the lease of a house and some land, for three lives,
paid £60. and built a considerable portion ; he also
paid £30. for buying out a lease elsewhere, maintained
his two sons at school at Up-Holland, which cost him
£14. a-year, and sent one of them to Mr. Frankland,
to be educated in university learning, besides having
many severe afflictions in his family. Yet such was
the blessing of God, that he passed through all without
contracting any debt, but rather increasing his pro-
perty out of his small income. This holy man was
very sensible of this extraordinary providence, and
often expressed what he felt with admiring thank-
fulness.
In the year 1662, Aug. 24; — That fatal day struck
him civilly dead with the rest of his brethren : how-
ever he continued his public preaching in the church
after that day without disturbance, till the place was
filled up with a new vicar. This was a Mr. Ashworth, a
schoolmaster, who lived six or eight miles from thence,
taught a school, rode to Ormskirk on Saturday, and
returned back on Monday morning. He was absent
all the week for several years, so that Mr. Hey wood
still seemed to have the sole charge of that town and
parish, visiting the sick, instructing the people, praying
with them, and preaching privately to them as oppor-
tunity was offered. He was abundant in the work of
the Lord, not only in his own parish, but at Wigan,
Warrington, Liverpool, Preston, Eccleston, and on a
call in more remote places.
But in his own parish, and amongst his old hearers
he was in labours more abundant, he usually preached
twice on a Lord's day, sometimes several times on
week days, ordering his labours in different parts of
the parish, both during the day and at night : even in
times of great danger, he has preached at one house
.-'*?f"
460 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
the beginning of the night, and then gone two miles
on foot over mosses, and preached toward morning to
another company at another place.
Nor was he scant and short in his sermons, but
usually long, two hours at least, often three ; yea,
sometimes he would even continue four or five hours,
praying and preaching: his heart was so fully set upon
his Master's work, that he forgot his own strength and
his hearers' patience. Nor did he tediously dream
over his work, but was full of zeal, vigour, tenderness,
and affection, often strained his voice beyond what his
natural strength could well bear, which occasioned tor-
turing and mortal disease — like a candle he spent him-
self to give others light.
Neither was he vox et prcsterea nihil, a mere voice
and no more, as some preachers, who like thunder
make a loud noise, without any distinct or significant
sound ; no, his sermons abounded with solid divinity,
scripture arguments, alluring similies, and heart-melt-
ing passages. He was an excellent text man, produc-
ing judicious interpretations ; an experienced casuist,
resolving cases of conscience with correct discrimina-
tion; a clear disputant, stating controversies accurately
and distinctly, answering objections skilfully and satis-
factorily, and proving the truth to a demonstration.
He was a pathetic preacher, riveting the nail by faith-
ful appeals to the consciences of his hearers, and earnest
exhortations to repentance or to particular duties, and
also by stating plain, undeniable, and important truths,
still laying open and obviating Satan's wiles, the deceits
of a bad heart, and the ensnaring insinuations of a
wicked world, probing the conscience by a thorough
examination, and comforting God's children with pre-
cious gospel promises.
This, this indeed was his masterpiece, and the main
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD. 461
scope of his preacliing, to lay open the beauties and ex-
cellencies of the blessed Jesus, and the great necessity
which sinners have for him — to display in lively colours
the love of God in sending his Son, the love of Christ
in the unparalleled work of redemption, and the under-
taking, purchase, and offices of the Son of God — to un-
fold the covenant of grace, and to describe the opera-
tions of the Spirit in applying the merits of Christ, &c.
The truth of this appears in two excellent discourses
transcribed from his own notes, as he preached them
the same year he died. The one called Christ the
choicest Gift, which was grounded on John iv. 10.
The other entitled Christ the best Master, a discourse
on John xiii. 13. They form two excellent treatises,
and are bound up together : they were printed after
his death, (for he could never be persuaded to publish
any thing,) though doubtless they would have been
more accurate, if he had supposed they would ever see
the light ; but such as they are, they have proved very
acceptable and profitable to the church of God ; many
have read them with pleasure, and some good divines
have made extracts from them.
His labours in the ministry were so exceedingly wel-
come, that the loss of his public services was greatly
lamented by the whole town and parish, he was be-
loved of all, good and bad. A poor ignorant man
came to him when he was turned out ; saying, ah, Mr.
Heywood, we would gladly have you preach again in
the church ; yes, said he, I would as gladly preach as
you desire it, if I could do it with a safe conscience by
conforming. The man replied, oh sir, many a matt
now-a-days makes a great gash in his conscience, can-
not you make a little nick in yours f
That was a remarkable disaster which happened
at Ormskirk on July 30th, 1662 ; which Mr. Heywood,
462 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
thus describes in a letter to a friend : " About four
o'clock in the afternoon, there was a storm of dreadful
thunder and lightning for a long time together ; and
in the town of Ormskirk, and about it, fell a great
shower of hail in a terrible tempest, hailstones were as
big as ordinary apples, some say, nine inches in circum-
ference ; one stone that I took up was above four inches,
after it had thawed in my hand. The hail broke all
our glass windows westward ; we have not one square
whole at the back of our house, so it is with most of
the houses in and about the town ; it hath cut off all
the ears of our standing corn, so that most fields which
were full of excellent barley and other grain, are not
worth reaping. It hath shaken the apple-trees, and
in some places bruised the apples in pieces : the hail
cut boughs from trees, and some say there have been
strange appearances in the air, of which I shall give
you a further account. All, especially the ignorant,
were much terrified, thinking it to be the day of judg-
ment ; certainly it was a sad sign and effect of God's
heavy displeasure with us, and I wish it be not a pre-
sage of more abiding judgments ; they tell me that my
small share of loss will amount to £10. at least; in
half an horn* all this hurt was done. The Lord sancti-
fy this sudden stroke to me and my poor people." Mr.
Clark in his Examples hath this story, and mentions
Mr. Heywood's attestation of it, which however I
thought proper to relate here, partly because this is a
fuller account than he gives, and partly to shew how
observant this holy man was of the remarkable provi-
dences of God. It was his observation that this natural
storm, was a sad presage of a moral storm on ministers
and churches, which fell the very month after, which
rooted up so many useful fruit-bearing trees, marred
so much good fruit, and shattered the glass by which
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD. 463
the light of saving truth is conveyed into the house
of God. This good man was so endeared to his peo-
ple, that he was resolved never to part from them till
death made the divorce: of them he thus writes, "I have
an affectionate though poor, a docile though ignorant
people, they flock in very great numbers to the ordi-
nances, and I have hopes of doing some good, (it may
be already begun) amongst them, I have some solicita-
tion to conform, but I will not change on any account
whatsoever, let me have your prayers, help me for this
poor people, whom I love as my own children, and long
after in the bowels of Christ."
He had frequent disorders in his body which much
promoted God's work upon his heart. In the year
1667, he had a violent distemper, which in a fortnight's
time brought his bodily frame very low, and by the
time he was recovered, his dear wife fell into a sad
languishing disease, which threatened death, besides
grievous afflictions in her spirit, and sad apprehensions
of death for above a month together. A swelling also
commenced in her throat, which increased to a hard
tumour in the inside, and which inevitably in the eye
of reason threatened death, but beyond all expectation,
God did graciously remove that cause of complaint,
and raised her up again in mercy to the family. In
the year 1670, his son Nathaniel was in an extraordinary
manner seized with convulsion fits, which acutely pained
and distorted his face, limbs, and every part of his body,
but God also at last restored him. These providences
however found Mr. Heywood work for, and quickened
his spirit in, prayer.
In October 1671, Mr. Heywood fell into a malignant
fever, which (as his two doctors, Dr. Fife aud Dr.
Grundy said) had seized the nerves, and spirit, and
brain ; he was not in extremity of pain, because, (as
464 LIFE OF THE UEV. N. HEYWOOD.
the physicians said) the disease lay not so much in the
blood. Upon the thirteenth day after he began, it was
judged that all was over with him. Dr. Fife, a boister-
ous man, and Justice of the peace in the Fylde country
near Garstang, called for a candle and bade him open
his mouth, which when he had inspected, he swore a
great oath, and said, " his tongue is as black as a coal,
call the mistress of the house," said he, " let him set
all things in order, and make his will, for he is a gone
man ;" these words astonished his family, but his own
and only surviving sister, being present, and hearing
these confident expressions, gathered encouragement,
and thought within herself, "this is but a man and may
be deceived, God is God, and can make his words false."
Thus Dr. Fife left him as hopeless, and said it was in
vain to give him any thing. But before he came to
his own house at Houghton Tower, a fever violently
seized the doctor himself, and in a few days brought
him to his end, so he never returned home alive ; but
from that very day the fever abating, Mr. Heywood
began to amend. There was probably at that time a
crisis when the disease was at its height, for it was a
dreadful day and night, he had all the symptoms of death
upon him, but God had mercy upon him, as upon sick
Epaphroditus,* God had much work for him to do. He
however continued under weakness, and some disorder
in his head, for he could not be persuaded that he was
at home, confidently affirming he was at BickerstafF,
where indeed he was immediately before he began his
distemper, on a visit to Sir Edward Stanley, who had
begun in a fever, and died shortly after. Mr. Heywood
would needs be helped to the window to see the funeral
pass by to the church.
This sore sickness was in the year 1671 ; and the
* Phil. ii. 27.
LIFE OF THE KEV. N. HEYWOOD. 165
king's licenses came out in the year following, 1672 ;
but indeed hitherto he had very little or no disturbance
in his work of preaching, God was preparing him both
for service and suffering. This sickness preceded ser-
vice, God laid the foundation low, designing to build
high, and often he thinks fit to lay the fairest colours
upon a sable bottom ; God passed the sentence of death
upon him immediately before a petty resurrection, for
in the spring following came out the liberty to preach.
Mr. Heywood cordially embraced it, and had two
chapels licensed, namely, Bickerstaff, adjoining to Lady
Stanley's house, two miles south from Ormskirk, the
other was Scarisbrick, two miles north from the parish
church, both in Ormskirk parish ; these he supplied
constantly, preaching at the one chapel one Lord's day,
at the other the next, of which he thus writes, " I bless
God my congregation is numerous and attentive, oh
that they were as fruitful ; my family is healthful, oh
that they were more holy."
He continued two years in these two chapels, but
about April 9th, 1674, he thus writes, " I have had
more trouble and opposition in my ministerial employ-
ment, these four months last past than ever I had in
all my life, yet am not taken off to this day. Archers
have sorely grieved us and shot at us thirty-four
arrows, (I mean warrants,) but our bow abides in
strength, by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob ;
officers have come eighteen Lord's days together, but
have not as yet scattered us. How easy it is for God
to save us while we serve him, if we could believe ; I
am encouraged to hope that some good is done, or may
be done, by my poor labours in this season, and it is
no bad sign, when Satan rageth so violently against
us. God can work without, or against means, and can
work by improbable means to accomplish great ends.
VOL. I. 2 H
466 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEY WOOD.
I was never more inwardly borne up under storms, nor
strengthened against difficulties at any period of my
life, it may be my time is but short, and my work near
an end. Oh, that I may live and die in God's work
and way, and be faithful unto death. Dear brother,
let my condition have a deeper impression on your
heart than ordinary. Two warrants, one for £20. the
other for £40. have been out against me these seven
weeks, but we keep our doors fast barred, and the
officers are very civil to us. Oh that I could see you !
I have no horse, but go all my journeys on foot."
November 13, 1674. He thus writes, "I bless God
my liberty, nowithstanding all my troubles, is not
wholly lost, but sometimes disturbed ; we meet in
fear, yet we meet in both chapels ; no warrant has been
sent for a month or more, and my auditory increaseth
again. O that I had a heart to improve late experi-
ences and present opportunities, and do my duty, leav-
ing the issue to him that judgeth righteously."
But his excessive pains, though refreshing to his
spirit, were wasting to his bodily frame, for about that
time, thus he writes : "I am still at work in both
chapels, but I am much brought down, with pains and
weakness of body, having overdone my strength, and
wasted myself in these intervals of liberty, which God
hath given us. But I have no reason to repent any
thing I could ever do for so good a Master. O that I
had done more and better.
About the same time, he writes thus : " Some assaults
Satan hath made upon me, with a right hand tempta-
tion ; the whole parish of Aughton have been impor-
tunate with me, to put myself into a capacity for their
parsonage, worth seven or eight score pounds per
annum, the bishop, (that is. Dr. Wilkins) promiseth
favour to me in it ; but God did not leave me so much.
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD. 467
as to have any serious thoughts of yielding to that
temptation. I do preach still, but not so constantly,
nor in so full a congregation as formerly. Dear bro-
ther, I beseech you for the Lord's sake, and for the
loye of the spirit, strive together with me in your
prayers to God for me, you know for what, &c."
At last after many strugglings, threats, alarms,
people's withdrawing, and rallying again, a stratagem
was contrived to knock all dead at a blow. Some
deputy lieutenants sent a party of soldiers to take Mr.
Heywood in the pulpit, and though it was known, yet
they met in Bickerstaff chapel : Lady Stanley came
out of her gallery, and placed herself near the pulpit
door, hoping to overawe their spirits, and obstruct
their designs ; the soldiers stood without, while Mr.
Heywood was at prayer, but when he had prayed, they
rushed in, and required him to come down and go along
with them, he mildly desired the favour that they
would give him leave to preach, and he would go along
with them, but they rudely pushed towards the pulpit;
the Lady would have stopped them, but they pressed
forwards, opened the pulpit door, got hold of his coat
and tore it, and forcing him out, took him away with
them straight to Up-Holland, nor could the Lady's
mediation prevail to procure him a little refreshment ;
only on the road he grew faint, and desired them to
call with him at an alehouse, which they did, and the
landlady, though he had no accjuaintance with her, was
exceeding kind to him, and said he should have any
thing she had in the house ; but " those rogues," said
she, " shall not have a morsel that took him," so they
carried him away to an alehouse in Up-Holland, where
he lodged that night, from whence he thus wrote to
his wife : —
*' I am very well, I bless God, and never in greater
2 H 2
468 LIFE OF THE llEV. N. HEYWOOD.
honour or so highly advanced in all my life, I was
dragged out of the pulpit with a pistol lifted up to my
head, and a G — d-d — m-me in my ears, but the man re-
pents of his rashness, and wishes he had let me preach,
for he never heard a better prayer, &c. But be not
troubled, God hath shewed me more mercy than I can
be thanl<:ful for ; O help me to praise him, O what
cause have we to rejoice in suffering on this account,
God will have glory, and his church the benefit; but I
fear it must be an imprisonment, or promise not to
preach, which is my very life."
But God in his gracious providence did also scatter
this cloud, for the day after when it was noised abroad
that Mr. Heywood was taken, a multitude of people,
and many considerable gentlemen, and some that were
no friends to his cause, yet out of respect to his person,
mediated for him ; even several of good report, and
intimate with the Justices, offered to be bound for his
appearance, and to give any security that should be
required ; the Justices then tendered him the Oxford
oath, he was in a strait, and peremptorily refused it ;
they had some advantage against him, he told them
that persons must swear conscientiously and with
judgment, and therefore he desired some time to con-
sider of it, which was granted ; and seeing such an ap-
pearance of persons of all ranks for him, they gave
him respite, and liberty to go home, till the next
Quarter Sessions, which were to be held at Wigan a
month after, and they bound him to appear at the
Sessions.
Thus he was delivered out of that snare and went
home, and wrote the following letter that day, dated
Jan. 28th, 1674. " Pray help me to praise God,
and in your prayers remember a poor sufferer for the
gospel. People do so throng in to see me, now I am
LIFE OF THE llEV. N. HEYWOOD. 469
come home again, that I have not time to write fully to
you, but commit you to God and his protection, that
you may long enjoy, and usefully improve that svi^eet
liberty in God's vineyard which I doubt I have lost ;"
and indeed so it proved.
The Sessions at Wigan came on, he attended there
according to his bonds ; several Justices appeared for
him, and his friends came to see the issue, and to
mediate for him ; old Lady Stanley came herself with
her husband ; Mr. Henry Houghton, a Justice of the
peace ; Mr. Christopher Banister of Bank, and several
others spoke much on his behalf ; another Justice then
upon the bench, said, if Mr. Heywood was sent to
Lancaster jail, he should be as comfortably maintained,
and as honourably released, as ever any prisoner was.
Some of his adversaries, seeing which way the Court
inclined, stole away in discontent, took horse and rode
home. Thus the snare was again broken, and Mr.
Heywood was dismissed to the joy of his friends, vexa-
tion of his enemies, and surprise of all.
Other snares were laid to entrap him on the Five
Mile Act, but so generally was he beloved, no one
could be brought to swear that he lived in the town,
though he was usually at home, and conversed openly
among the inhabitants. A warrant was issued out to
distrain upon Mr. Hey wood's goods for £20 ; but the
oiSicers said the doors were shut, and they had no orders
to break them, yet they might have taken advantage,
if they had been severe; but indeed they were generally
very favourable. It is true, the doors were kept fast
for half a year together, till things wore off; and they
never got a pennyworth of his goods, which was looked
upon as a very wonderful providence, for children and
others were frequently passing and repassing through
the out doors, in front and behind. God took him off
470 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOI).
his work by men's rigour, and also impeded his former
diligence, by his own immediate hand, upon his body,
much about the same time. Thus he writes :
"May 7th, 1675. I am glad your precious liberty
is continued. I have nothing to do now at home, and
am much abroad, which is a heavy burden to me, pray,
continue, increase your fervent prayers for me ; riding
is very painful to me."
Jan. 1st, 1676, he writes thus : " I am now very
busy, blessed be God ; and these holy days, (so called)
when others play, I work, having preached oftener here
in a few days, than I did in the whole year preceding..
I was lately at Chester, being forcibly drawn thither
by the importunity of friends, where I preached thrice,
and had great encouragement ; God hath much people
I believe in that place, they would have persuaded me
to live with them ; but I am resolved to remain here
yet, where providence hath so visibly settled me, pre-
served and provided for me. My lads seem to be in-
clined to the ministry — who knows but God may be
fitting instruments for his work in the next age? for my
part I can see no reason to look for any thing but trials
in this."
He was always a zealous impugner of, and a notable
champion against papists, of whom there are great
numbers in those parts. When Mr. Heywood had
been sent for to visit sick persons, in which work he
was constant, careful, and sometimes successful; popish
friends or neighbours would often procure some popish
priest, or one of their religion, to come also to them,
and if they had but the least pretence to give it out
that the party died in their faith, they would wonder-
fully exult over tlie Protestants. One person died,
with whom Mr. Heyv/ood took great pains, and a
popish priest ako frefjuented that house, who Avas so
LIFE OF THE REV. X. HEYWOOD. 471
vexed because he could not prevail with the party, that
he wrote some queries for Mr. Heywood to answer ;
these he did so judiciously and solidly refute, that the
ignorant priest was nettled and puzzled, and sent to
one of their more learned advocates to sujDport their
desperate and falling cause ; this man made a large re-
joinder, with abundance of quotations out of ancient
writers, to which Mr. Heywood made a learned and
sufficient reply ; only he was deficient, because he had
not by him the authors quoted, therefore he sent the
papers to Mr. Illingworth, an excellent scholar, and at
that time much conversant with the College library at
Manchester, who took abundance of pains to search
out and read over some large volumes, to answer a
quotation which referred not to book, chapter, or page;
however by their joint efforts, that work was incom-
parably executed, worthy of an impression, but to this
day they heard no more of that gentleman.
Another passage he wrote in a letter dated June 12,
1675, to this purpose : "I do just nothing almost,
either publicly or privately ; it is much worse with me
than before the indulgence, yet God hath of late em-
ployed me another way, not however so delightful or
congenial as preaching. A gentlewoman inclined to
marry a Popish gentleman, would not marry till she
had satisfaction that it was lawful, from some divine,
and pitched on me to resolve the case, which I did very
freely and plainly to her once or twice : I never dealt
so plainly with any person in my life, and yet she took
all well, whereas she differed with her nearest relations
and best friends fur speaking but a little against it : she
would needs have my reasons in writing, and having
got them in a large dissuasive letter, she shewed it to
the gentleman, and he carried it to a priest. Twelve
days after, she brought me a long and subtle answer,
472 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
to which I made a large and, I think, satisfactoiy re-
ply. In the meantime we endeavoured to divert her to
other matches, but all in vain, her affections were too
strong for her j udgment. Though she seemed to ap-
prove and consent to my reply, yet she kept up her
connection with the gentleman, and was just on the
point of marriage, so that I could expect no other fruit
of my labour in it, than my own satisfaction that I had
done my duty, leaving the event to God : God appeared
in the mount. One Mr. D. a hopeful young gentle-
man of religious parents in Cheshire, coming very acci-
dentally to A. and finding this lady there, was attracted
by her, paid his addresses to her, and married her in
eight days' time. Such a providence must not pass
without particular notice, and special praise to God.
The young gentleman came thither also for a diversion,
yet knowing nothing of her but designing another
place, was persuaded by a minister in his company to
take a night's lodgings at A. This circumstance has
become a subject of conversation throughout the whole
country, has caused shame and confusion to the Papists,
who had a design upon that family and were confident
it was their own; and has been a source of joy to all
good Protestants, and all friends of that worshipful
family. I want and crave your help, to give due
praise to God for answering prayers so wonderfully."
Another thing which greatly exasperated the Popish
party, was a severe and pointed sermon Mr. Heywood
preached on Nov. 5, 1673. at Scarisbrick chapel, from
Rev. xviii. 4, a very learned, judicious discourse against
the Papists ; which, together with the forementioned
provocations, did so offend them, that though they could
not take full revenge on him themselves, yet they pre-
vailed with some Justices to prosecute him ; and this is
thought to be the true reason of all that un2)aralleled
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HE Y WOOD. 473
rage which some displayed against Mr. Heywood,
whereas several others in the same circumstances
as culpable, were suffered to enjoy their meetings
quietly.
In the midst of these employments and oppositions,
God was pleased to lay a very afflictive distemper upon
him, which for a long time was judged to be the
gravel; certainly it was exceedingly acute and painful,
yet it is disputable whether his loss of gospel liberties,
or his violent bodily disorder, was the greater afflic-
tion on him. His being on horseback about six or
seven miles, in the year 1675, rendered his pain scarcely
tolerable. Thus he writes : " Want of health and
liberty (believe me) are two sore evils ; I hope you will
particularly help me with your prayers for direction as
to health, but more especially as to the restoration of
liberty in my beloved work, the loss of which is a
greater grief, than the want of health and ease." In
another letter dated July 15, 1676, he saith, " I have
endured extreme pain and torment a month together,
nearly the whole of which time the passages of nature
affected by my complaint, were almost entirely ob-
structed, which caused inexpressible agony, and so en-
feebled my frame that I began to apprehend death was
approaching. The good Lord fit and prepare me for
it, and account me worthy to find mercy in that time
of need. My pain was occasioned by the sultriness of
the weather, and preaching in that hot season oftener
and longer than I was well able to bear. I am sure I
have greatest reason to submit to his holy will, and
even to be thankful also, that though he hath afflicted
me very sore, yet he hath not given me over to death,
whereas I hear of many that have of late been carried
off by my disorder, (Bishop Wilkins, cousin John
Crompton, and several in this quarter within these two
474 LIFE OF THE llEV. N. HEYWOOD.
months.) I beg your prayers that, if God spare my
life, he would also give health and liberty to improve
it in his service, more publicly and usefully ; or if
death come, (which will be less unwelcome because of
my restraints, pangs, and troubles in this world, only
my wife and children maJ^e the thoughts of it burthen-
some) may God be glorified, I hope it will be my ad-
vantage. I wish neither you nor any other faithful
minister, that minds and loves his work, may ever
know what I have felt in the want of my stated charge
and accustomed employment. Other afflictions are
light, compared to a dumb mouth and silent sab-
baths."
Yet, notwithstanding all this affliction, he had a very
great desire, once again, if it were the will of God, to
visit his friends in Yorkshire, and God was pleased to
grant his request, for he gave him some mitigation of
his pain, which was an encouragement to undertake
that journey; accordingly himself, his wife, and his
two sons, travelled into Yorkshire, April 20, 1677 ;
there he preached the sermons that have been since
printed, and another most excellent and pathetic ser-
mon on Rom. v. 8. From thence he sent his eldest son
to be trained up in academical learning with Mr.
Frankland at Natland in Westmoreland. But O what
affectionate parting was there, as if they must never see
one another's faces again, (and indeed so it proved) they
could not speak to one another for weeping and exces-
sive emotion, he desired another to pray, for he could
not refrain. In that journey, he was carried out be-
yond himself in praying, preaching, and discoursing to
the admiration and edification of all his former friends
in that district, though he had frequent returns of his
wonted pain. He was as a man coming down from hea-
ven to tell what is done there, or as one ripe for heaven.
LIFE OF THE KEV. N. IIEYWOOD. 475
too great for earth, upon the wing to take his flight
into the mansions above, as happened to be the case.
After he had done what he designed, he left York-
shire, May 1, 1677, but could travel that day only ten
miles ; the next morning he went to Rochdale, but was
forcibly detained by the importunity of christian friends,
and preached there that evening, though greatly to his
prejudice as to health ; the day following he reached
Bolton, and, as he said, with great difficulty and hard
struggles they got home on Friday night. Thus God
carried him abroad in mercy, and brought him season-
ably back to his own house in safety.
How much he was satisfied with this journey (though
his pains were extreme several days after his return
home) his letter, May 14, 1677, testifies : " The great
mercy," saith he, " in my late journey to you, comforts
with you, and safe return home, where we found all
well, I hope I shall never forget ; pray help me to be
grateful for them. I do heartily thank you for all your
pulpit, table, house, and country kindness. I am sorry
and ashamed I made no better improvement of them,
not knowing that ever I shall again enjoy such oppor-
tunities of doing myself and others good in your quar-
ter, but an indisposed body and a bad heart mar duties
and waste mercies." His distemper still continued and
prevailed upon him all that summer. In a letter dated
September 20, 1677, he saith, " I am far from being
well, and as the church once complained, she forgat
prosperity, so I health, and am ready sometimes to add,
as she did, ' My strength and ray hope is perished
from the Lord.' This day five weeks, I came from the
exercise at Toxteth Park, where I had preached twice,
and oftener than my strength could well bear. Since
that day I have never been on horseback, nor preached
except once near home ; but all this time God hath
476 LIFE OF THE IlEV. N. HEYWOOD.
been preaching to me, with a terrible thundering voice.
that I could hear the rod, and him who hath ap-
pointed it. So sharp and so long a fit of pain I never
had, since this disorder seized me, God alone knows
what may be the issue of it, but for my part, though I
find it no easy matter to look death in the face, and to
conquer the difficulties that precede and attend it, yet
1 have no great reason to love life, or to desire my long
stay in this wicked, weary world ; my agonizing days
and wearisome nights make thoughts of death and the
grave less terrible, and apprehensions of rest with
Christ most welcome and pleasant. But I feel natural
inclinations working towards life, and fondly hold up
to myself the fair glass of doing God more and better
service in his church. I am best resolved and most
at anchor, when I can say, (but oh how seldom, how
coldly !) The will of the Lord be done. Dear brother,
pray for me, (as I would do for myself) that to me to
live may be Christ, and to die gain. Yesterday for
some hours I was in extreme torment, but am much
easier, I bless God, to-day ; but my pain is not in the
same manner as formerly, but like an ulcer in the blad-
der, which makes my disease more dangerous as well
as painful. It is the Lord's mercy that I am not ut-
terly consumed, that I can sit thus long to write to you,
which many a time I cannot, but I am now weary."
The last letter, so far as I can find, was by him dated
Oct. 23rd, 1677; which I shall for the most part
transcribe.
" My dear Brother, tliis evening I received yours, for
which I thank you, it breathes nothing but love and
comfort to me. Oh, how sweet, how seasonable your
expressions of love ! Oh, how tender ! especially I
thank you for your prayers, and the prayers of others
by your means. I account them a precious treasure.
LIFE OF THE llEV. N. HEY WOOD. 477
and the surest and speediest remedy in all troubles.
Oh ! pray again, who knows but that may prevail when
nothing else can ? I have been sensibly better since that
day on which you shed so many tears over my ease
with such breathings of soul. But who am I, that any
should be concerned for me ? a poor, weak, useless crea-
ture, nothing and less than nothing ; I have been long,
with respect to usefulness in God's vineyard, a withered
branch, a dry stick, and now my body is withered like
the grass, my skin parched, my moisture dried up
through extremity of pain, which hath continued nine
or ten weeks, day and night. About a month ago,
friends seeing death in my face, they prevailed with
me to send for Dr. Grundy, who found me in a lan-
guishing condition, yet not without some hope. He
told me my distemper was a dysuria, my blood was
vitiated, my moisture sour, and there wanted due
separation of the serum from the blood, that it would
require much time and patience to bring the body to a
good state, &c. Since, I have been taking one sort or
other of physic ; still however my pain continues,
though not altogether so acute, as at the first, but I
have very weary, restless nights ; many times I am
constrained to get up aud walk two or three hours,
but God supports, his word comforts in all and over
all, his ways are mercy and truth, it is his mercy that
I am not consumed, yea, it is in mercy and faithfulness,
that I am afflicted. I would not have been without
this trial for an earthly kingdom ; if God please to
spare my life, and restore strength, I hope others will
find that I have gained considerably by this sea-adven-
ture. — I am your indebted and endeared brother, N.
Heywood.
His disorders growing thus upon him, gradually
weakened his frame, and took out the pins and pulled
478 LIFE OF THE HEV. N. IIEYWOOD.
«lown the stakes of his frail tabernacle ; lie wore away
insensibly ; his friends seeing he had strength to walk,
did not apprehend his end so near, as indeed it proved.
On Thursday, December 13, 1677, they perceived him
to alter, and grow something worse than he had been,
not so much in the violence of pain, as in the decay of
spirits, and falling into drowsiness and slumbering ;
that very day, he said with tears running down his
face, that he could willingly die if it were the next
hour, but for the good of the church, and his poor wife
and children, and with them he could be content to
live, were it in prison. That night being ready to go
to bed, he sat down in his chair and looking up to-
wards heaven, moved his eyes very much, his wife
asked him how he did, but he could not answer, as she
supposed, but soon after he said he would go to bed,
lie fell into a similar trance, and lay for a while speech-
less ; being better, he looked about him, and saw them
weeping, and said, if you knew Christ better, this
carnal affection would cease, and natural affection
would be sanctified, and run in a spiritual channel ;
oh ! learn to know Christ more ; for my own part, I
have preached Christ all my life, and, I bless God,
with good success. It is common with many now-a-
days, to have mean and low thoughts of Christ and
his imputed righteousness, but if I had twenty lives to
live, I would spend them all in that work.
On Friday, a kinsman who had come from London
visited him, but he was so weak and listless, that he
was very unfit for discourse ; and indeed at the best,
he was sparing in conversation ; he used to speak lit-
tle, but what he did speak was very pithy, pertinent,
and sententious.
On Saturday night, Mr. Starkey, a reverend and
pious minister, visited him ; he asked hira, whether it
LIFE OF THE llEV. N, HEY WOOD. 479
was any trouble to liim that he did not conform? He
answered, " No, it is a great comfort to me :" this he
spake with much cheerfuhiess, adding more words to
evidence his satisfaction, in what he had done and suf-
fered : Mr. Starkey asked him, what promises he could
now rely upon, or what scripture passages supported
him ? He answered, " For me to live is Christ, and
to die is gain," — " Christ hath loved me, and given
himself for me."* He was frequently repeating those
words, " Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly."
About four hours before he died, being asked how
he did ? he answered, " very well." The last words
he was heard to utter, were, " Come away. Lord, come,
come ;" and so he breathed out his blessed soul, on the
Lord's day morning, Dec. 16, 1677, about nine o'clock:
thus God made the day of his hard labour, the day of
his entrance into his eternal rest.
And it is worthy of observation, that God hath
taken off many eminent ministers, and excellent Chris-
tians from the stage of this world, near or upon that
day. This holy day of heavenly rest hath commenced
with them the everlasting day of rest in heaven.
Christ's resurrection day hath been their ascension
day. They parted with jarring music on earth to
mingle with the celestial choir above. Our brother
departed, though not very tuneable in his voice, often
made melody in his heart below ; now the high praises
of God are sounded by him, and at the great day, soul
and body shall make a melodious concert in blessed
harmony.
And now this holy, learned, and industrious man of
of God is advanced above guilt, corruption, temptation,
and persecution, pains of body, fears of spirit, dis-
turbances in God's worship, imprisonments, confis-
* Phil. i. 21. Gal. ii. 20.
480 LIFE OF THE REV. X. HEYWOOD.
cations, banishments. Oh, what a blessed state have
those above taken possession of ; happy souls ! that are
safely lodged in the arms of their dear Redeemer.
It were worth while to stand still, and take a view of
the spirits made perfect in the other world.*
Let us glance a little on their privative and positive
happiness, described Rev. xxii. o — 5. 1. There shall
be no more curse : that is, no more effects of God's
displeasure upon man for Adam's sin, nor causeless
curse by man's unjust censures. 2. Siit the throne of
God and the Lamb shall be in it : this is the beatific
vision, which secures souls from sin and suffering, and
who dare presume to arrest or annoy the king's fa-
vourites in his presence ? 3. And his servants shall
serve him : whether devils or men will or not, these
blessed attendants on the King of glory, shall never be
interrupted in their delightful service. 4. A7id they
shall see his face : that is, they shall not behold him in
a glass darkly, as now they see God in ordinances, but
then face to face, yea, they shall see him as he is,
(which is a riddle to us here below,) immediately
though not comprehensively. 5. And his name shall
be in their foreheads : that is, they shall openly pro-
fess whose they are, and to whom they belong, as dis-
tinguished visibly from wicked men and hypocrites.
They shall no more skulk in co^'ners, or be thrust out
of public places, but shall openly avow their Master.
6. And there shall be no night there : no works of
darkness to lament or conflict with, no beasts of prey
to creep forth and worry the saints, no secret plots
against them, no ignorance amongst christian societies
to create differences, jealousies, and animosities.
7. Thet/ need no candle, neither light of the sun : no
need of ordinances, such as are used and useful here
* Heb. xii. 23.
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOt). 481
below; preachers shall study or preach no more, people
need not hear sermons; neither preachers nor hearers
shall stand in need of seals, the substance is present,
shadows flee away. 8. The Lord God giveth them
light: their enjoyment of God is immediate, uninter-
rupted and satisfying, in his light they see light ; as
the object will be clearer to be seen, so their eyes will
be perfectly illuminated to behold him. 9. And they
shall reign : though his servants shall serve him, yet
it shall be no troublesome bondage, but a liberty and
dominion ; they shall sit with Christ in his throne as
assessors, judge the world, and (it may be) judge their
judges, approving the righteous sentence of their royal
Master, the blessed Jesus, King of kings, and Lord of
lords.* And if all this be meant of some glorious state
of the church on earth, (as some will needs have it) yet,
that is but a faint resemblance of a more happy state
in heaven. And further, for the duration of it, it is
added : — 10. And they shall reign ^or ever and ever :
earthly monarchs are but short-lived, kingdoms have
their periods, but kings are of shorter continuance ; of
Christ's kingdom there is no end, and the reign of his
subjects runs parallel with the life of God, and line of
eternity. O blessed souls ! O happy saints ! that shall
for ever be with the Lord : and here we leave the soul
of our dear brother, singing triumphantly the song of
Moses and the Lamb on the heights of Zion, whilst
we poor mortals are glad if we can only sing the song
of degrees.
As for the solemn interment of that casket, once the
receptacle, now the relict of a precious pearl ; it was
judged meet that the solemnity should be put off till
Wednesday, Dec. 19, 1677 ; that distant friends might
have seasonable notice ; and on that day Mr. Starkey,
* Rev. iii. 21. 1 Cor. vi. 2.
VOL. I. 2 I
483 LIFE OF THE TIEV. N. HEYWOOD.
a Nonconformist minister, preached an excellent ser-
mon in the parish church at Ormskirk, (no man for-
bidding him ; nay, all that were any way concerned,
consenting) on Col. iii. 4, " When Christ, who is our
life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him
in glory." There was a vast confluence of all descrip-
tions of people at his funeral, great lamentation was
made, and many signal demonstrations of universal
love and respect he had, from the whole country ; his
body was laid in the chancel, in a burying place, which
belongs to the ancient family of the Stanleys of Bicker-
staff, knights and baronets ; it was with their free con-
sent and desire. The reverend minister that preached,
after he had judiciously, learnedly, and profitably
handled his text, gave a short but full account of the
deceased, in his several capacities, as minister, husband,
father, friend, and especially Godwards as a Christian ;
and the hearers in accordance with his discourse, gave
testimony to the truth of what was spoken, while they
discovered the sense they entertained of their ir-
reparable loss. All the people of the town, in their
different circumstances, doing him honour in their
peculiar way : Mr. Constable, the chief officer in the
town, of considerable authority, carried the staff, (like
a mace) before the corpse, and the rest walked in due
and decent order.
Now, although this was insignificant to the dead,
and not much edifying to the living ; yet decent burials
have always amongst civilized nations been considered
incumbent on the living, and an honour to the dead ;
and there is a special remembrance of this in scripture;
for it is said of Hezekiah, that all Judah, and the in-
habitants of Jerusalem, did him honour at his death.
On the contrary, it is recorded as a perpetual disgrace to
Jehoram, the wicked son of good Jehoshaphat, that he
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
departed without being desired ; and of another wicked
son of a good king, Jehoiakim, the son of Josiah, it is
said, they shall not lament for him, saying, " Ah my
brother ;" but he shall be " buried with the burial of
an ass, drawn and cast forth beyond the gates of Jeru-
salem."* But this good man honoured God whilst living,
and God honoured him at his death ; and advanced his
soul to better, and eternal honour.
Mr. Heywood went to his grave in peace, after all
his violent tossings upon the tempestuous sea of this
world ; he died in the forty-fourth year of his age,
having lived long in a little time ; and I find several
excellent men taken out of the world about that age.
So among the German divines, Strigelius died forty-
four years of age, and six months ; Flinschpach, forty-
four; Simlerus died in his forty-fifth year; so we find
Erpenius died at forty years of age ; Mr. Robert Rollock
died in the forty-third year of his age ; the famous Dr.
Whitaker in his forty-seventh ; but to mention no
more, our celebrated Mr. William Perkins lived but
forty-four years.
And indeed we have frequently observed, that la-
borious ministers are short-lived ; some are of weak
constitutions, and spend their lungs with speaking;
or by a sedentary life contract diseases, or are afflicted
by the untoward ness of their people ; or God in judg-
ment takes them away as a punishment to a wicked
world ; however, like a candle, they spend themselves
to give light to others. Many gracious young men
are very zealous, and make haste with their work ;
they get it quickly despatched out of their hands, and
go to bed betimes ; and God is not willing to be too
long without having them in his immediate presence.
Oh how many fine promising plants have been plucked
* 2 Chron. xxxli. 33. xxi. 20 Jer. xxii. 18, J9.
2 I 3
484 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
up of late years, heavy laden with choice fruits ; whilst
some old withered trees, barren and fruitless, still stand
cumbering the ground ! But the sovereign Jehovah
knov/s what is best, and does all things well.
A little while before Mr. Heywood died, he said to
a friend, "I think this turning out of our licensed places
will cost Mr. Yates and myself our lives. Oh this goes
heavily ! our casting out of our great places was not
so much as casting us out of oui- little places ;" and in-
deed Mr. Yates of "VYarrington died shortly after.
Having thus nakedly given a brief account of Mr.
Heywood's birth, life, employment, and death, and
what is worthy of remark on these ; I shall select some
features of his character, pleasing to trace, and imitable
by his surviving brethren, friends, and hearers : for
the memory of the just is blessed. Possibly genera-
tions yet to come may reap benefit by what they find
recorded of him ; and I dare appeal to the God of
truth, who searcheth the heart, that the description I
shall give of him is true, which I have by personal know-
ledge, or creditable testimony.
1. As to his figure, physiognomy, and constitution,
which is the case, or shell, that was engaging enough,
no part lacking, crooked or deformed ; tall and straight,
with dark curled hair ; not corpulent nor very thin,
yet stouter in his body than might be supposed from
his face ; of a healthful constitution, after he was past
his childhood ; which might have continued long, had
not the vessel been shattered by impetuous dashings,
inflamed with the love of God and zeal for souls, which
made inroads upon his frame faster than nature could
keep pace ; and this over-driving took off the chariot
wheels ; for all agreed, that his excessive pains laid the
foundation of those diseases, which at last wasted his
spirits. He was an excellent footman, and could walk
LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD. 485
both fast and far, and in his last disorder walked much,
and found most ease in that exercise ; though when
he went beyond his strength, it cost him dear. In his
best health he was subject to extraordinary perspiration,
especially in his preaching; and perhaps that perspira-
tion was some advantage to him ; but when he could
not exert himself to produce that effect, and thereby to
cause the acrid humours to evaporate, they might
settle, and occasion his acute diseases, or otherwise
when in a state of perspiration he might be prejudiced
by cooling too rapidly. Once old Mr. Woods and he
preached in a chapel on a hot summer's day, the num-
ber of people was too great to come within hearing;
Mr. Heywood having preached first, Mr. Woods with-
drew the large assembly, from that citadel in which
they were cooped up, into the champaign of a fair large
field, where that excellent, solid, laborious man of God
preached under a shady tree ; Mr. Heywood sitting in
a chair, got an extreme cold, which made him suffer
much afterwards.
2. With respect to his disposition, he was naturally
choleric, being of a sanguine complexion ; but such
was the predominance of grace, that it did very little
appear in him, being regulated and rectified by that
sovereign corrective the fear of God ; which turned his
natural disposition into a spiritual channel, and gave it
a due bias to move God-wards. He was much under
the influence of tender affections, where reason dis-
covered the amiableness of the object. In his younger
days he was judged to be inclined to melancholy, sitting
sometimes silent, and poring on something ; and so he
was in his last distemper. Yet at times he was very
cheerful and facetious, throwing out harmless jests with
much advantage, for his own and his friends' amuse-
ment ; and this, (with recreating himself with his chil-
4S6 LIFE OV THE KEV. N. HEYWOOD.
dreii) was all the recreation that he used for many
years. He was indeed very witty and ingenious, when
he slacked the strings and unbent himself a little,
which was very rarely ; his mind being ordinarily in-
tent upon more important things in his study, or soul
concerns.
S. As to his entrance into the ministry, and his
judgment in ecclesiastical points, he was (according to
his education) a strict Presbyterian, avoiding both the
extremes of prelatical tyranny on the one hand, and
congregational democracy on the other. Upon his
first settling at Ormskirk, he presently applied himself
to the ministers of the class in that division where God
had cast his lot ; and after probation and approbation
of his ministerial abilities, learning, and fitness for the
pastoral office at that place, and after the consent of
the people had been expressed, he was solemnly set
apart by fasting and prayer, and imposition of hands,
to the work of the ministry, in a public congregation,
to the great satisfaction of all that were concerned.
The reverend, grave ministers that laid hands on him,
were Mr. Thomas Johnson, of Halsall; Mr. Thompson,
of Sefton ; Mr. Edward Gee, of Eccleston ; Mr. Bell,
of Highton ; all worthy, eminent men ; and some
others.
4. In reference to his ministerial labours, I shall add
little to what hath been said. He willingly did spend,
and was spent in the service of his Lord and Master ;
he prayed and wept, preached and laboured in public
and private, in season and out of season ; he constantly
preached twice a-day, catechised, exhorting, admonish-
ing with all long-suffering: he spent much time in
solemn fasting and prayer with christian friends in his
parish, and elsewhere. He loved and delighted in the
communion of saints, so that those few Christians, with
LIFE OF THE llEV. N. HEVWOOD. 487
whom he had been accustomed to hold intercourse,
mournfully bewail the loss of him as their pastor and
leader, their prompter to, and supporter in their spi-
ritual exercises. His heart was set to do good unto
all, but his delight was in God's children. He refused
not to come and visit the poorest and most wicked,
that either sent for him, or that he judged would make
him welcome, or where he had any hopes of doing
good. He was diligent in visiting the sick, and took
great pains with the ignorant, procuring catechisms
for them that were willing to learn, instructing them,
and using ingenious artifices to bring them into a love
of religion, and engaging young people to learn.
' 5. He was exceedingly meek and patient, not only
in bearing his bodily pains with an invincible spirit,
but in enduring the affronts, reproaches, and various
indignities that were offered him, with heroic cheer-
fulness ; yea, he gloried in them as the afflictions of
Christ. Notwithstanding all the forementioned opjio-
sition, yet, his spirit was so sweetly calmed, that none
ever heard him revile or speak evil of the instruments,
but many have heard him pray for them ; it is true,
his spirit was sometimes so disturbed, that he would
dream of them, and mention them in his sleep ; but
still he bore a compassionate heart towards them, and
would often bewail their condition. Though some of the
townsmen and others, thought some prosecutions were
malicious and unreasonable, not fit to be named, yet
he freely forgave all as an offence against himself, and
affectionately prayed for their i-epentance and the par-,
don of their sin against God ; oft saying, " If this or
that be the worse they can do, we shall shift well
enough." He had in some considerable degree, learned
that hard lesson our Lord teacheth. Matt. v. 44, " But
I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that
488 • LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray
for them which despitefully use you and persecute
you." This, this is a great height of true Christianity,
to do good, and endure evil ; bear our cross, and follow
Christ with patience and self-denial.
6. He was very faithful to his friends, and looked
upon the bond of friendship as sacred, and not to be
violated, whether in the business of counselling, or
keeping secrets, or preserving and discharging the
trust reposed in him ; nor was this unimportant, or
from persons inconsiderable. He would put himself
to much cost, many troubles, and some inconveniences,
rather than seem by negligence to falsify his word, or
in any respect to fail of his duty ; as many instances
might prove. It was conscience of his duty towards
God, that awed his spirit in those cases, wherein no
mortal could detect or punish him for neglect. He
was extremely obliging in his deportment, very en-
gaging in his discourse among those with whom he
could be free, instructing the ignorant, indulging the
weak, by words or carriage manifesting his dislike of
sin, but encouraging those that discovered any spark
of true piety, however they might differ from him in
some things ; for he was of a catholic spirit.
7. He was very humble and self-denying, which was
the fine ornament of all his other graces and eminent
qualifications ; this indeed was his master-piece, he
had always very mean thoughts of himself and his
own undertakings, disrelishing others' commendations
of him ; which indeed were to him instar fulminis^
like a thunderbolt, as a German divine said of men's
praises ; yea, he would even cover his face with shame,
and modestly blush, when any spoke well of him ;
his maxim was rather to be, than seem good; not
affecting triumphs (as Pompey did) but approving his
k
LIFE OF THE KEV. N. HEYWOOD. 489
heart to God ; being more pleased with God's gracious
acceptance, and the consciousness of his own integrity,
than aspiring at the favour of the great or the ap-
plause of the vulgar ; though scarcely any had such
general approbation or flocking after them ; yet his
spirit was not elated or lifted therewith. In him was
verified that observation, " That honour is like a sha-
dow, which being pursued, flies away ; but the more
a man flies from it, the more it follows him." He
could never be persuaded to print any of his produc-
tions, though he was often solicited to do this ; for he
judged nothing that he did worthy of being exposed
to public view ; he so far disliked the humour of osten-
tation, that he abstained from doing that which might
have been profitable to the church. Though his ser-
mons were elaborate and judicious, yet they were full
of pathos, which he desired to be conveyed only to the
ears and hearts of his hearers. His modesty even
locked up his lips in company, unless he had a just
call to speak ; and he spoke with great discretion, and
as much humility and submission to better judgments,
but always with great advantage to his hearers. He
was mild in his censure, and spoke well of the humble
and well-meaning undertakings of others ; he com-
mended all who in any thing were praiseworthy, and
envied them not that honour which was due to them.
8. He was much and mighty in prayer ; he had an
excellent gift in confessing sin, petitioning for mercy,
and thankfulness to God for mercies received. He did
with applicable and proper scripture expressions wrestle
with God in prayer : oh ! how frequently and fervently
did he pour out his supplications before the Lord with
sighs and tears and throbbings of heart. He had a
large measure of the spirit of adoption, and was usually
copious in the duty of prayer, especially upon extra-
490 LIFE OF THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
ordinary occasions. Though he had long used to go
to God alone, yet in his last sickness he was more con-
stant in closet prayer. His wife and children coming
to him, have often found him upon his knees : and the
Lord gave him many signal impressions upon his
spirit, and remarkable returns of his prayers. Many
years ago, when his wife was dangerously sick at
Godley, in Yorkshire, nigh to death, he told her she
must not die at that time ; she demanded of him, why
he thought so ? He answered, " because my heart is
much enlarged in prayer to beg for thy life ;" accord-
ingly God raised her up at that period. And he hath
oft taken notice of the frame of his spirit in prayer for
sick persons ; and hath formed his opinions of the
issue from his straitness, or his enlargedness, and it
hath often proved according to his presages.
9. He had a great measure of faith, both as to soul
concerns, and temporal affairs. As to the former, God
hath helped him in spiritual troubles to trust him in
the way of a promise, and at last elevated his faith
into a 'plerojihorij^ or full assurance. As to the latter,
he was trained up in the life of faith many years ;
having a wife, and nine small children, being turned
out of all, having nothing before hand, and knowing
not in an ordinary rational way, where his subsistence
must arise ; all this put his faith hard to it : yet com-
mitting himself and his family into God's hand, he
was wonderfully supplied, as if he had been fed with
ravens, or like Israel in the wilderness. O man ! great
was thy faith ! O Lord ! great was thy bounty ! It
is true, he was often afraid of being chargeable with
discontent and murmuring ; but he summoned up his
spirits, saying to his wife, " Let us pray and wait on
God, he never failed us yet, come let us trust him ;"
this he spake with great alacrity ; and he oft took
LIFE or THE llEV. N. HEYWOOl). 491
notice, that in extremities God sent a seasonable supply-
by unexpected means ; help came in so strangely, that
he resolved to set down punctually what he received,
and of whom. He said once to a friend, "I cannot but
wonder how God sends in money just as I need it, he
drops it into my hand by sixpences and shillings most
seasonably ; and the review of these circumstances
much strengthens my faith, and engages me to thank-
fulness." This course he had followed for above twelve
years, and advised his friends to do the same. From
multiplied providential interpositions he gathered great
encouragement, he often wondered at the unaccomit-
able provision God made for him and his.
10. He was of an amiable temper, much disposed to
peace, both in sacred and civil things. He was not
willing to fall out with any, and it was strange if any
fell out with him, for he gave no just occasion at any
time. Testimonies and instances might be produced
wherein he complied to the utmost extent of what he
judged lawful, to avoid giving any offence, and some-
times receded from his right for the sake of peace. It
is true he was a man of contention, as the prophet
Jeremiah was, but it was his grief and made him cry.
Woe is me ! And besides, it was rather passively than
actively that he was so ; men contended with him,
rather than he with them, and it was in the matters
of his God and conscience ; and he was resolved to
obey and please God rather than men. In this he was
as a sturdy oak, in other matters, a bending ozier. If
any time he was angry at others, yet anger did not
ferment into malice, or long rest in his bosom ; he
sought reconciliation with them ; and if any had taken
offence at him, he sought to win them by conciliatory
means and methods of kindness ; yea, he was not only
a peace-keeper, but a peace-maker to his power, recon-
492 LIFE OF THE llEV. N. HEYWOOD
ciling neighbours that were at variance; not by sitting
with them in the alehouse, (as the manner of some is)
but by christian advice, counsel, and prayers, healing
differences in God's way. He preached an excellent
sermon upon mutual love, from Ephes. v. 2, an excel-
lent duty, having an excellent pattern. In the manage-
ment of this subject he discovered an admirable spirit,
full of gentleness, sobriety, and moderation ; he sought
to calm men's minds, and lay the the storm of passion,
that the word might take place, for ''the fruit of
righteousness is sown in peace of them that make
peace," James iii. 18.
11. But though he was of a peaceable spirit, con-
descending to any thing lawful for the sake of peace,
yet not so facile, flexible, and wire-like as to be drawn
a hair's breadth from truth, or well-fixed principles ;
he was magnes et aclamas, an attractive loadstone, yet
an impenetrable adamant in the cause of God. He
well understood his own latitude, and as he would not
groundlessly withdraw under the influence of a volatile
spirit, so he would not be led aside into sin to please
a friend, or prostitute his conscience to men's fancies.
Others might perhaps judge it a needless preciseness,
perverseness, or obstinacy ; but he could not turn his
sails to their wind, or dance after their pipes, though he
had many temptations on all hands from great and
small; but he was of blessed Paul's mind and practice.
Gal. ii. 5, " To whom we gave place by subjection, no
not for an hour ; that the truth of the gospel might
continue with you." And if he died not a martyr for,
yet a confessor of, and witness to, the truths that con-
cern Christ's kingly office over his church, and espe-
cially his right to appoint what laws, order, officers,
and ordinances he pleaseth, as one of his last sermons
abundantlv demonstrates : he was faithful unto death.
LIFE OF THE REV. X. HEYWOOD. 493
and now receives a crown of life. It might be said of
this man of God, as was said of Erasmus Sarcerius :
" Lucebat in hoc viro commemorabilis gravitas et con-
stantia, non minas, non exilia, non uUam ullius hominis
potentiam aut vim pertimescebat. Pene dixerim, solem
facilius de cursu dimoveri potuisse, quam Erasmum a
veritatis professione.* — Melch. Ad. Vit. Sa7'C. p. 326.
12. He made daily great proficiency in learning, grace,
and holiness ; having laid a low foundation, he built a
stately, visible superstructure. It might be said of him
as the apostle said of the Thessalonians, "That his faith
did grow exceedingly, and his love to Christians abound-
ed."! The pearl grew too large for the shell ; his head
soared above the clouds, and his heart mounted heaven-
wards. And as he grew in faith, love, meekness, zeal for
God, endearedness to souls ; so above all, in humility,
self-denial, and contempt of the world ; as he travelled
up and down to do good, so he travailed in birth over
poor perishing sinners. Possibly some may think Mr.
Hey wood took too much upon him, and was too sedu-
lous in his indefatigable labours, both in the face of
danger, and to the hazard of his health ; but as to the
one, Calvin's apology was his, Wbtilcl you have me
found idle when my Lord cometh f As to the former,
his proceedings and conduct were sanctioned by a like in-
stance in the life of Olevian, who asked the people. Whe-
ther he must suspend, or supersede his preaching at that
time for fear of danger ? Or, whether they desired to
hear him as formerly? All the people with hands
lifted up, and loud voices cried out, Imo hoc, imo hoc,
et per Deum te oramus, ut per gas concionari.\ We
* There appeared in this man an admirable steadiness and con-
stancy which dreaded neither threats nor exile, nor any power or
violence of man. I may almost say, that the sun mi^ht more easily
be diverted from his course, than Erasmus from a declaration of
the truth. t 2 Thess. i. 3. % Melch. Ad. Vit. Oliv. p. 600.
494 LIFE OF THE llEV. X. HEYWOOD.
beseech thee to preacli. Thus the necessities and im-
portunity of the people extorted work from the subject
of these memoirs ; his heart was upon it, and being
engaged, he regarded not any plausible arguments de-
duced from flesh and blood, or self-preservation. His
last sermon preached at a friend's house in the parish,
was a swan-like song, pithy and sententious, ardent
and affectionate ; so that as before, he had exceeded
others, he then exceeded himself; as if he previously
knew that it was the last. Thus his last was more
than his first ; and the nearer the centre, the quicker
was his motion. He abounded in matter, as if he was
at a loss for time for the remainder of his work, that
he might despatch it all and be at rest.
13. He was very charitable to the poor, and such as
were in real necessity. And though his small revenue,
and constant charge, did somewhat .bind his hands,
yet he could not restrain his spirit ; he drew out his
soul to the hungry. And indeed true charity is seated
rather in an expansive heart, than a liberal hand ; the
imprimis of a willing mind finds acceptance, when the
items of alms run but shallow. And to his power,
many will bear record ; yea, beyond his power he
was willing ;* freely welcoming objects of pity, stirring
up his hearers to free contributions, especially on be-
half of the pious poor, whereby the bowels of many were
refreshed by this brother. And hence it was, that as
he had sowed bountifully, he did then, and much more
doth now, reap bountifully ; " For the liberal soul shall
be made fat ; and he that watereth, shall be watered
also himself."!
14. He was a great admirer, and an able preacher
of the glorious gospel design, especially in the giving
of Christ. And indeed this he made his rb loyov, the
* 2 Cor. viii. 12, 3. t 2 Cor. ix. 6. Prov. xi. 2j.
LIFE OF THE KEV. N. HEYWOOD. 495
main scope of all his preaching. It is true, he did
often preach law and terror to awaken men's consciences,
and drive them out of themselves to Christ. He did
often press duty in a circumspect, exact, and holy
walking; and urged a spiritual, and diligent worship-
ping of God ; but still demonstrating, that Christ is
the end of the law for righteousness to every one that
believeth.* It was his element, and most agreeable to
his evangelical spirit to know and preach nothing but
a crucified and glorified Redeemer. He enlarged much
on the gospel mode of justifying a sinner, by the im-
putation of Christ's perfect righteousness through faith.f
His active thoughts ran still upon this theme, sleeping,
and waking ; so that once, many years ago, he was
heard in his dream to say, there are vast heaps of free
grace. His heart was greatly enamoured with the
love of God in sending Christ ; as appeared to the satis-
faction, profit, and wonder of many, from a sermon he
preached the year in which he died, on Rom, v. 8.
This was the proper sphere in which he moved ; and
few dived so deep into that unfathomable ocean of love
which passeth knowledge, as he did.ij:
15. He was a zealous defender of truth, and im-
pugner of errors ; he strenuously " contended for the
faith once delivered to the saints." || He much delight-
ed in the form of wholesome words, and loved not
new coined phrases, which are apt to amuse men's
minds, and instil into them poisonous principles. He
loved and used sound speech that cannot be condemned,
as well as sound orthodox truth ; standing at an equal
distance from Arminians on the one hand, and Anti-
nomians on the other. He had a wonderful sagacity
in discerning persons, things, and doctrines that swerved
from, or agreed not with the scripture dialect. He
* Rom. X. 4. t 1 Cor. ii. 2. :j; Eph. iii. 19. !| Jude, 3.
•196 LIFE OF THE REV, X. HEYWOOD.
kept close to the analogy of faith ; yet he was not
against proficiency, or cautious extension of knowledge.
He had well studied the Arminian controversy, and
told some friends, that if the Lord should recover him,
and lengthen out his life, he had a design to write
something on that subject, which might, perhaps, have
given further light in the controversy. For as his genius
led him that way, so he had the advantage of many
years' intimate converse with that aged and learned
divine, Mr. Thos. Johnson, of Halsall, a man of great
ability, and unwearied application to study, a non-such
on those points ; but he told Mr. Hey wood his intimate
friend, that it much repented him, because he had spent
so much time in reading books, and studying contro-
versies, which might have been more profitably era-
ployed in conversing with, and instructing his ignorant
and worldly minded neighbours. Let ministers think
of this, for one soul won to God by personal conference,
will tend more to God's glory, and a minister's comfort,
than a thousand notions obtained by reading. Howbeit,
a due mixture of a contemplative and active life, must
needs be the best.
16. He was exemplary in his relative connections.
He was an obedient child, an exceedingly kind husband,
an indulgent tender-hearted father, an affectionate mas-
ter, a faithful friend. He maintained a paternal awe,
authority, gravity, mixed with gentleness and lenity,
and both with incredible prudence, so that those con-
nected with him, had not occasion either to slight him,
or to be discouraged by him. He instructed them with
faithfulness ; admonished them with tenderness ; prayed
for them with faith and fervency, and walked before
them with a holy exemplariness and sincerity. As
God had made him a Nathaniel, God wards ; so he was
a Joshua, resolving that " he and his house should
LIFE OF THE REV. X. HEYWOOD. 497
serve the Lord."* It is a true maxim, that he who is
not relatively good, is not really good ; but he was
faithful in the discharge of duty in every relation. He
kept his children much at home, being very jealous
lest they should meet with temptations abroad, which
occasioned many cares and prayers about their dis-
posal.
17. He attained to a considerable measure of assur-
ance. Though he had walked in darkness, and saw
no light in his first convictions ; yet staying himself
on the Lord his God, he at- last shone upon his soul with
the light of his countenance, and he walked many days
through much darkness with the candle of God shining
upon his head, f How frequently in prayer did he
express his joy and gratitude for everlasting conso-
lation and good hopes through grace relative to his
own salvation ! But the infinitely wise God, after
he had enjoyed many delightful days, thought fit to
withdraw his wonted religious enjoyments, and left
him under some doubts and dissatisfaction. For, about
two months before he died, one Lord's day, as he and
his family were sitting together, he told his wife with
tears in his eyes, that he had great trouble concerning
his spiritual state, and some doubts about his condi-
tion, desiring her to pray for him. Yet the Lord dis-
pelled those dark clouds, and in due time did graciously
shine into his soul with the beams of his love. Thus
God is a free agent, and doth not always entail comfort
upon sincerity, but sometimes the best of God's chil-
dren suffer eclipses : such sad days, however, lead to
self-searching and deeper humiliation, and such sliak-
ings tend to firmer establishment ; yea, such discou-
ragements are often attended with more enlargement,
such dark spots in a Christian's evidences produce
* Josh. xxiv. 15. t Isa. 1. 10. Job xxix. 3.
VOL. I. 2 K
498 IJFE 01' THE REV. N. HEYWOOD.
more clearing of tliem up. God hereby hath more
glory, and heaven will be sweeter.
18. He had a strong persuasion of God's care of his
numerous family, both in point of education and pro-
vision. As God had mercifully looked after them in
his lifetime, so he conceived great hopes of their sup-
ply after his decease. It is true, he had some tempta-
tions, and sad thoughts of heart concerning them ; but
at last faith gained the victory over unbelief, and hav-
ing left his mournful partner with her better husband,
and his fatherless children with their heavenly parent,
he was tranquil, and these thoughts did not prevent
his cordial welcome of his dearest Lord, when he sum-
moned him by death. He had by faith and prayer
devolved the care of them upon the Lord, and he freely
acquiesced in his good providence about himself and
them. On Tuesday before he died, getting into his bed,
his breath being very short, his wife broke out into
sore weeping ; to whom he said, "Be not troubled, God
will provide necessaries for thee and thy posterity for
ever :" M'hich brings to mind the anecdote of Bucer,
who dying, stretched out his hand, with his eyes lift
up to heaven, saying, Ille, ille regit et moderatur om-
nia — " He, he alone rules and governs all things :" and
the event in the present instance hath abundantly
answered the good man's prediction and expectation.
19. It is remarkable that he had his desire in a
leisurely, lingering death. He had often expressed
his willingness (if that were God's will) that death
might come on gradually, and not surprize him ; he
even prayed that he might be long in his sickness, and
also that he might be sensible to the last : the Lord
condescended to hear him in both these things. He
liad been long habitually prepared, but he desired to be
actually ready : for it is an important concern to die
LIFE OF THE llEV. N. HEYWOOD. 499
and go into another world, a world of spirits. This
good man had frequent warnings, and continued
strong in his intellect all the time of his illness. On
Friday night, his brother-in-law coming to him, asked
him if he had made his will ; he answered, no : he de-
sired to have his son Nathaniel at home when he did
that. But he perceiving that he was weakening
apace, and that his time would not be long, being
urged again, he willingly consented, and sent for a
clerk, and despatched that worldly concern the same
night ; then he was in perfect composedness of mind,
there being but one night more intervening before his
death.
20. As he was highly qualified with personal accom-
plishments, christian graces, and ministerial abilities,
so God gave him favour in the sight of all with whom
he had intercourse. It is true, he had adversaries, but
it was for the matters of his God, wherein his prin-
ciples led him to act differently from them ; yet even
those commended him for his abilities and preaching.
At death, some that had been bitter enemies to him,
were well reconciled to him ; one instance was very
remarkable, a Mr. Brownlow, an old gentleman, that
lived in the town, had conceived a bitter grudge
against Mr. Heywood, after king Charles's return,
because he would not read the common prayer ; but on
his death-bed he sent for Mr. Heywood, and entreated
him to go to prayer with him ; and when Mr. A. the
vicar, would have come to read the common prayer,
he would not suffer him ; but would not part with Mr.
Heywood while he lived.
Thus I have given a brief narrative of what was
memorable in this holy man of God, and imitable by
us ; I may say to every one, " Go thou and do like-
wise." Let Christians pray that God would send forth'
^ K 9,
«v Xi ^
500 LIFE OF THE llEV. N. HEYWOOD.
many such labourers into his harvest and succeed their
labours, and let them learn to improve svich advan-
tages, that they may give a good account of them at
last.
A Letter sent by Mr. Nathaniel Heywood to a Chris-
tian Friend, on the Death of his pious Wife.
Dear Friend, May 1st, 1675.
I received yours of Jan. .SOth, long since, and
would have answered it much sooner, but that I had
some intentions, and was not without hopes, of accom-
plishing them, not by writing, but by coming to you
at your appointed time in March last ; but being pre-
vented, and now having such pains of body, through
my old disorder, which makes me very incapable of
riding far, that I am not certain of seeing you this
summer, though I propose and shall endeavour after
it ; I can now forbear writing no longer, nor can I
further delay that which I account my duty, till I
come over ; I give you hearty thanks for your kind
a] id valuable letter, whereby I was much refreshed in
those my late troubles, which indeed were many and
heavy ; yet in such a cause, and for such a Master did
I suffer, that I must needs say, they were light and
easy. Oh ! that God may have the glory, and others
be encouraged ! As sufferings for Christ did abound,
so consolations abounded by Christ. Let the world
know, that suffering for Christ is the very element in
which love liveth and exerciseth itself and his choicest
cordials are reserved for such a time. I was in a great
measure a stranger to the comforts and sweetness of
LIFE or THE REV. N. IIEYWOOD. 501
Christianity, till I was singled out to bear the cross ;
but am now well satisfied, that what I have suffered
and still do suffer for, is Christ's truth ; because he
was pleased to seal my sufferings with the sweet sense
and experience of unspeakable joy and peace ; and I
know he will not put his seal to a blank paper, nor will
he be a witness to a falsehood. Had not some great
persons interposed by their interest and authority, I
had certainly gone to prison at that time when I was
taken by soldiers : and at the sessions shortly after,
had not God raised up other friends, (some of them
Justices) to frustrate the purpose and design of my
cruel enemies, who would have sent me six months to
prison the sessions before, for living within five miles
of this town ; yea, would have convicted me among
recusants, for not coming to this church — my lot would
have been imprisonment ; but it pleased God by a
special providence, to prevent that also. But, alas !
all these troubles are nothing to what I am now
mourning under, the loss of public liberty ; to have a
closed mouth, dumb and silent sabbaths ; to be cast
out of the vineyard as a dry and withered branch, and
to be laid aside as a broken vessel, in which there is no
pleasure — is a sore burden which I know not how to
bear, my heart bleeds under it as giving a sting and
edge to my other troubles and afflictions. This exer-
cise of my ministry, next to Christ, is dearer to me
than any thing in the world. It was my heaven, till
I reach home, even to spend this life in gathering souls
to Christ ; but I must lay even that down at Christ's
feet, and be dumb and silent before the Lord, because
he has done it who can do no wrong, and whose judg-
ments are past finding out. I am sure I have reason
to conclude with the prophet, " I will bear the indig-
nation of the Lord, because I have sinned against him."
502 LIFE or THE llEV. n. iieywood.
Dear Brother,
I hear that it hatli pleased God to remove from
you the desire of your eyes, and my dear friend. I am
heartily sorry for that sore breach in your family, and
desire to suffer with you in the loss of your loving and
good wife, now gone before (according to the method
and order he hath appointed, whose vmderstanding is
infinite) wliither you are shortly to follow. He that
made yesterday to go before this day, and the former
generation in birth and life to have been before this
generation, and hath made some flowers to grow, and
to wither, and to die in May, and others in June —
cannot be challenged in the order he observes with us,
that one bury another. You know who said, " I was
dumb and opened not my mouth, because thou. Lord,
didst it." All things are ordered in wisdom and judg-
ment by your Father ; at whose feet your own soul
and your heaven lieth, and so the days of your wife.
You had her as long as your lease lasted, and seeing
her term was come, and your lease run out, you can no
more justly quarrel with the great Sovereign for tak-
ing his own at his just term-day, than a poor farmer
can complain that his master takes a portion of his
own land to himself when the lease is expired. And
is not he an ill debtor who payetli that which he hath
borrowed, with a grudge ? Certainly the long loan of
such a good wife, an heir of grace, and member of
Christ, (as verily I believe) deserveth thanks rather
than grief and murmuring, when he calleth back his
own. I believe you would judge them to be but un-
thankful neighbours, who would pay you back a sum
of money after this manner. I know you would be
sorry either to be or to be esteemed any thing like an
atheist ; and yet not I, but the apostle (1 Thess. iv. 13.)
thinks those to be hopeless atheists, who mourn exces-
LIFE OF THE REV. N. IIEYWOOD. 503
sively for the dead. But this is not a charge on my
part ; some jealousy I have, lest you be overmuch
grieved for the loss of such a help-meet ; but you have
reason to rejoice, that when a part of you is on earth,
another part of you is glorified in heaven, sleeping in
the bosom of the Almighty : follow her, but envy her
not. For indeed it is self-love in us that maketh us
mourn for them that die in the Lord ; because for
them we cannot mourn, since they are never happy till
they be dead, therefore we mourn for our own iwivate
loss. Take heed then, that in pretending your affec-
tion in mourning for your wife, you act out of self-
affection ; consider what the Lord is doing in it ; she
is plucked out of the fire, and resteth from her labours;
and the Lord in that is trying you, and casting you
into the fire, beholding your faith and patience, and
delighting to see you in the burning bush and not con-
sumed ; but sending Satan away frustrate of his de-
sign. The Lord is laying in one scale of the balance,
your making conscience of submission to his gracious
will ; and in the other, your affection for your wife :
which of the two will you then make to preponderate ?
I wish you may come out of the Lord's school wiser
and more experienced in the ways of God. It is our
happiness that when Christ openeth a vein, he taketh
nothing but ill blood from his sick patients ; and when
he puts them into the furnace of affliction (and stands
by the melting of the metal) he takes away the dross and
scum that remained in nature. But it is a sad thing
when the rod is cursed, that never fruit shall grow on
it ; and except Christ's dew fall down with his summer
sunshine, and his grace follow afflictions, to make
them to bring forth fruit unto God, they are so be-
withered to us, that our bad ground (rank and fertile
enough for briars) produceth a crop of noisome weeds.
504 LIFE OF THE IlEV. N. IIEYWOOD.
I am persuaded your losses, cares, sicknesses, &c. are
but summer showers that will wet your garments for
an liour or two, and the sun of the new Jerusalem
shall quickly dry your wet clothes, especially since
the rain of affliction cannot stain the image of God,
nor cause grace to cast its colour. Oh ! learn heavenly
wisdom, self-denial, and mortification by this sad loss.
I know it is not for nothing, (except you deny God to
be wise in all that he doth) that you have lost your
partner on the earth. It may be, there hath been too
little of your heart and love in heaven ; and therefore
the jealousy of Christ hath done this ; it is a mercy
that he contendeth with you ; it may be, he hath either
been out of his place, or in a place inferior to his
worth. O let Christ have the room of you wife ; she
hath now no need of you, or your love ; she enjoyeth
as much of the love of Christ as her heart can be capa-
ble of. I know it is a dear bought experience to teach
you to undervalue the creature ; yet it is not too dear
if Christ think so. Let me entreat you to consider
one thing more (which hath helped me in such like
cases more than once,) and I have done : you are
hasting after your wife, and shall shortly be with her;
it is but a little while, a few days longer, and you
must follow her into eternity. By her death take
occasion to love the world less, out of which she was
taken, and heaven more, whither she is gone before
you, and where you shall for ever enjoy her society,
and be with Christ, which is best of all. If the place
she hath left were any other than a prison of sin, and
the home she is gone to were any other than a palace
of glory, your grief would be the more rational. But,
I hope, your faith in the resurrection of the dead in
Christ to glory and immortality, will lead you to dry
up your tears, and suspend your longing for hei', till
LIFE OF THE llEA^ N. HEYWOOD. 505
the morning of that day, when the Archangel shall
descend with a shout, to gather all his prisoners out
of their graves up to himself in heaven. — Dear love
to, and fervent prayers for, you and your children.
I am,
Your most affectionate.
And sympathizing Friend,
NATH. HEYWOOD.
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ADDENDA
CONTAINING THE
LIFE OF THE REV. JOHN ANGIER,
TOGETHER WITH
ISiograpf)ical ^kctcljcjs
OP SOME OF THE REV. O. HEYWOOd's NEAREST RELATIVES.
2 L 2
PREFACE.
Faithful ministers are styled the chariots and horsemen of
Israel ; these are the watchmen of the city that give warning
of danger, intercede with the Lord ; and doubtless the church
of God must receive great detriment, by the removal of such
worthies. It is a saying of the Jewish Rabbins, Quando lutni-
naria patiuntur eclipsin, malum est signum mundo. When the
heavenly luminaries are eclipsed, it is a dreadful presage of ap-
proaching evil to this lower world. The church in these dis-
tricts hath been successively blessed with famous ministers, and
gracious Christians, whose praise is in the churches of Christ ;
many of whom now sleep in the Lord ; yet through God's wise
care for the preservation of the churches, not a few are springing
up in their room as hopeful slips ; on whom and the people sur-
viving, I would here take occasion to drop a word of counsel.
1. You that are expected to succeed this old stock of preachers,
worn or wearing out, look to your planting in Christ ; let your
own souls be duly engrafted into the true vine ; presume not to
be ministers before you be Christians ; get experience of divine
truths in your own hearts, and transcribe them in your daily
practice ; believe, repent, obey yourselves, or you will teach
these things badly and unconcernedly ; whatever your gifts be,
see you have sincere grace, and dedicate your all to God ; you
serve a holy God, you preach a holy gospel, you have before
you holy examples, be you also holy in every change, in all
circumstances. Aaron"'s ornaments signified nothing, if holi-
ness to the Lord was not written upon his forehead on a plate
of gold ; if you had profound genius and learning, tenacious
memories, extraordinary elocution, so that you could speak
with the toncjues of men and angels, all is of no worth without
grace witliin, and vmiversal sanctity ; one allowed sin will worm-
eat the goodliest trees, and blast the most pleasant fruits. Some
ministers are eminent for one rare gift, others for different ac-
complishments ; all have some, few have all ; some modest
young men look upon themselves as much behind others, and
are apt to be discouraged; my advice to such is, to make
up their deficiency in diligence, in holiness, and in faithfulness.
When nature or art denies any thing, seek after an equivalent
from additional supplies of grace. Grace witliin, vigorously
518 PREFACE.
exercised, the assisting grace of God procured by faith and
prayer will avail much ; be faithful to what you have, if you
cannot attain much ; that is, a fine saying of Luther''s, and
shall be my motto, " I desire to be fovmd a faithful minister of
Christ and his church, if I cannot be wise or skilful." Let not
inability, discourage you ; some ordinary men of humble gifts,
may honour God more than some famous learned doctors. Be
industrious in your studies; daily improve your talents, you have
more helps than your predecessors ; give not occasion for the
complaint of that Hebrew Rabbi, that the father had plowed,
sown, reaped, winnowed the wheat, and set bread on tlie table,
but that the children had no appetite. The greatest abilities
may rust away from idleness ; but the feeblest grow bright and
useful by diligent improvement ; the diligent hand with God's
blessing makes rich ; but be sure you keep humble, despise not,
but reverence your forefathers ; if you surpass their attainments
in literature in some points, it will be well if you fall not below
them in real worth, as to the power of godliness ; read their
lives in Mr. Clarke's collection, especially the last volume printed
since his death, and be dissatisfied with yourselves, and excited
to a holy emulation in true piety and zeal ; get into retirement,
mourn to see yourselves thus outstript, and implore more grace
from heaven.
I have but a word to say concerning this narrative, the life
of this holy man of God ; I confess many discouragements lay in
the way of this undertaking, not necessary now to be named ;
the principal was : That we w ere not capable of doing any thing
worthy of him, and it is better do nothing at all, than not to
the purpose, or not adequately ; but my answer is, that of the
Poet Lucan,
" Quod si digna tua minus est mea pagina, laude,
At voluisse sat est."
And, " dlfficilmm faciUs est venia ;'" if I am not able to
make a fine portrait, exhibiting all the features graceftiUy ; it
may be, this rough sketch may exceed some of our attainments,
may excite us to imitation, and some way tend to the glory of
our great Master ; and then I gain my object. If any say, it
is imperfectly done, and might have been done better ; I con-
fess it, and let them contribute something to mend it ; but this
is the best we can produce, according to our information ; and
if we cannot bring a lamb, our two turtle doves may be accepted
both by God and man. May the infinite, omnipotent, faith-
ful God, send labourers into the harvest, supply vacancies,
second his servants' efforts with his blessing, and continue his
church, ministry, and presence with these nations to the end of
the world. Amen.
A
NARRATIVE OF THE LIFE AND DEATH
OF THE
REV. JOHN ANGIER,
Minister of ihc Gospel, al Denton*
—teett—
Mr. John Angieh was born at Dedham, in Essex, of pious
parents, and was baptized there, October 8tli, 1605. He was
carefully instructed by his parents betimes, in the principles of
religion, and educated in school learning in the same place ;
being apt and capable from his childhood, he was much in-
clined to his book, and very desirous of being trained up for
the ministry, which he made his early choice, as appears from
the following anecdote, which I have heard confidently related
by credible persons. As this John, (who was the first-born
son, named after his father,) with his three brethren, Bczaleel,
Samuel, and Edmund, were coming from school to their father's
house, there fell a shower of rain ; they all ran under a tree in
a hedge for shelter ; standing there and seeing it rain apace,
they began to make their several wishes : one wished it would
rain learning ; another, wool ; another, money ; and another,
plums : thus pleasing themselves with their juvenile fancies ;
which options, manifested their different inclinations, and be-
came presages of their future disposal. For a neighbour over-
hearing them, acquainted their father, who calling them to him,
examined them one by one, saying, John, what did you wish
it might rain at such a time, in such a place H He was then
something abashed and loth to answer, but being further urged,
said. Sir, I wished it would rain learning. Why ? said his
father, what profession wouldst thou be of .^ he answered, I
would be a preacher. Come, Beza, said the father, what didst
thou wish it would rain .'* he answered, wool. Why ? said he,
what calling wouldst thou choose ? he answered, 1 would be of
your calling, a clothier. Samuel, said the father, what hadst
thou a mind it would rain ? He answered, money, for I have a
mind to be a merchant. And lastly, calling Edmund, demand-
» This Life of Mr. Angier, -ivas written liy Mr. O. Heywood.
520 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIEH.
ing the same, he answered, tliat he desired it might rain
plums, for he would choose to be a grocer. The father being
an intelligent, considerate man, thus ascertained every one's
genius ; and being furnished with a competent estate, adapted
their callings according to their wishes. Bezaleel was a rich
clothier in Dedham, and a gracious man ; he died October, 30,
1678. Samuel, the third son, being brought up a merchant,
lived in good repute in Holland, and there died in March, 16C7.
Edmund, the youngest, being bound apprentice to a grocer at
Cambridge, went into New England, and is the only survivor;
he has many years kept a grocer's shop in that country, and I
suppose is living at present.
But to return to the eldest son John, the subject of this
memoir. Being trained up a scholar, he proved of singular
service as an instrument in advancing the glory of God, and
promoting the spiritual welfare of others in his generation. And
thus they all answered the purpose of their education, and were
successful ; a good admonition to parents in disposing of their
children, rather to consult their children's capacities and in-
clinations, than their own humours and conveniences ; things
do always best when voluntarily chosen ; when the stream of
natural inclination runs through the channel of an adopted
vocation, it bears down all opposition, and attains the desired
object in the most arduous enterprises ; hence Dr. Harris saith,
lie never attempted any thing within the verge of his calling,
though it seemed difficult at the entrance, but with God's bless-
ing on his industrious prosecution, he found it feasible and easy;
but nil invitd Minerva, that which is attempted against the
heart, or without an adequate capacity, goes on heavily, and
seldom renders a man fit to manage his calling to purpose, or
arrive at any eminence in it, because it goeth against the grain ;
Athenians therefore acted wisely, who brought their youth into
a place where utensils for every calling were laid up, that
making their choice from them, each might have the calling he,
in this way, had chosen.
And as his proficiency at school was according to his time, so di-
vine grace did early begin to touch and affect the heart of our
young Timothy, who from a child had known the holy scriptures;*
for at twelve years of age, the Lord reached his conscience,
with some rays of illumination and darts of conviction, which
produced more effect through Mr. Rogers' ministry after his fa-
ther's death; but from his first convictions, he had much trouble
upon his spirit, which he kept in a great measure to himself,
and often retired privately, being ashamed that any one shquld
* 2 Tim. iii, 15.
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER. 521
know of his distress of mind. His mother being an excellent
and gracious Christian, often spoke to him of soul concerns,
wept and prayed much for him. At a competent age his fa-
ther sent him to the University of Cambridge ; he was admitted
in Emanuel College, where, notv/ithstanding his pious educa-
tion, and hopeful impressions, before mentioned, he fell off to
vain company and loose practices, (see the slipperiness of youth !)
to the great grief of his parents, and his own present guilt and
subsequent bitterness in the review. There he continued, and
commenced Bachelor of Arts, before his father's death ; who
being sick, sent for him to come home from Cambridge, but he
came so late, that in the afternoon as he approached towards
Dedham he met the people going from his father's funeral,
which made a very deep impression upon him ; and God took
hold of this occasion more effectually to awaken his conscience,
and alarm him respecting his duty.
Mr. Angier war; kept a season at his mother's house, followed
his studies, and attended to Mr. Rogers' ministry : this Mr.
John Rogers, of Dedham, was a prodigy of zeal and success in
his ministerial labours ; it was wont to be said, Come, let us
go to Dedham to get a little fire. He was lecturer there, and
preached once on the Lord's day, and a lecture on the Tuesday,
to which multitudes of people flocked from the parts adjacent ;
and his plain preaching was blessed with a large harvest. How-
ever, some expressions and gestures he used, would now seem
unbecoming ; yet the gravity of the man, and the general reve-
rence people had for him, rendered them not only not offensive,
but sometimes they produced wonderful effect : his taking hold
of the supporters of the canopy over the pulpit with both hands
at one time, and roaring hideously, to represent the torments
of the damned, had an awakening force attending it. Mr.
Thomas Goodwin, afterwards Dr. Goodwin, when a Fellow at
Cambridge, and an eminent preacher, occasionally hearing Mr.
Rogers, fell under such convictions, that he afterwards pro-
fessed, that he looked on himself neither as a Christian, nor a
preacher before. The following relation Mr. Angier hath
often repeated, Mr. Rogers being called to preach a marriage
sermon, I think insisted on the wedding garment ; God made
the word so effectual, that the marriage solemnity was turned
into bitter mourning, so that the ministers who were at the mar-
riage were employed in comforting or advising those whose
consciences had heen awakened by that sermon. O blessed
espousals between Christ and souls ! such sorrow was better than
carnal mirth, and laid a solid foundation for spiritual joy. A
gentlewoman who had travelled ton miles to hear plain and
522 LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIER.
powerful Mr. Rogers, being in great trouble of conscience,
desired some conference with him ; and after she had related
her condition, telling long and sad stories of her wicked heart,
deplorable state, God's wrath due to her, danger of dropping
into hell, &c. the good old man, hearing all this, at last started
up, and pacing across the floor, cried out, God be thanked,
God be thanked ; the gentlewoman thought the old man mad,
and was strangely surprised to see him rejoice in her sorrow ;
but he knew what he said, and rejoiced in that sorrow, which
was the seed of a blessed harvest ; for that gentlewoman proved
an eminent saint, and an amiable consort in exile and tribula-
tion to a very holy and eminent minister of Christ.
After attending Mr. Rogers'" lecture, while others stayed, con-
versed, and despatched business, it was Mr. Angler's custom to
go home to his chamber to meditate, and pray, and apply the
sermon to his heart for about an hour, and thus imprinted it so
lastingly upon his memory, that he never forgot many passages ;
and by the time that the family had got home, he was ready to
take his dinner with them.
He lived a season at Mv. Rogers' house, who sometimes put
him upon praying in the family, which he performed with so
much experience, humility, and feeling, that Mr. Rogers would
often co"mmend him, and say to his friends, this Mr. Angier
will make an excellent man in his generation. Another season,
he was with one Mr. Witham, whom I have often heard him
commend as a great scholar, and an intelligent man, though
not so successful in his ministry as a neighbouring minister of
far inferior abilities ; one being asked the reason, answered,
there were too many for God to work by. I know some say,
it was ]\Ir. Hooker's expression relative to the famous Mr.
Richardson, on the same account; alluding to Gideon's first
army, of which God said, " The people that are with thee are
too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands ;"*
but to whomsoever it was applied, the lesson is useful, to con-
vince us of the Lord's sovereignty in owning or disowning the
ministry of men ; and his wisdom, lest too much should be
ascribed to them, and God should lose his glory.
After this, his dear mother being tender of her son's spiritual
good, consulted with her christian friends how to dispose of
him ; she was one of a thousand for grace, holiness, and cha-
rity, saying, she would not have her hand out of a good work.
Oh, the prayers and tears she poured out for all her children,
but especially for her son John, not only because he was her first-
born, but chiefly because he was devoted to God's special work
* Judges vii. 2.
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER. 523
in the ministry, and because of his former baekslidings, and
her jealousy over him for the future. On consultation with
friends, and begging advice from God, she being afraid to send
him again to Cambridge, resolved to send him to Mr. John
Cotton, at Boston, in Lincolnshire, where he boarded, studied,
and sometimes preached; there he contracted an intimate
friendship v/ith those three divines. Dr. Tuckney, Dr. Hill,
and Dr. Winter : Mr. Anthony Tuckney was Fellov/ of
Emanuel, and so continued a good while, till he was called to
be vicar of Boston ; he was a serious, decided good man before
he went to Boston ; he was afterwards Master of Emanuel,
and after that of St. John's, Cambridge. And for Mr. Thomas
Hill, Dr. Preston, when Mr. Hill was Bachelor of Arts, intend-
ing to make him Fellow, sent him to Mr. Cotton for some time,
and when he returned from thence, chose him Fellow, designing
to ascertain his settled seriousness in religion before his election ;
for which he thought Mr. Cotton's family might be conducive,
and so it proved ; afterwards Dr. Hill was Master of Trinity-
College, Cambridge, and Dr. Winter, Master of Trinity-Col-
lege, Dublin ; all famous lights in the chm*ch of God ; Mr.
Angier survived them all.
And by the way, it will not be thought censurable to digTcss
a little, and give a few particulars concerning ]\Ir. Cotton, that
reverend and worthy man, for though his life was written at
large by a New England minister, and Mr. Samuel Clarke
afterwards gave extracts out of it : yet some things Mr. Angier
hath occasionally mentioned of him to a few of his brethren,
which may not be uninteresting : Though Mr. Cotton was an
excellent text man, yet he would never deliver his judgment
concerning the sense of a scripture, till he had first consulted
both the original and context ; an excellent pattern. Mr.
Angier hath sometimes related to his intimate friends, that Mr.
Cotton never went into his study after having been called out on
any occasion, but he began his studies again with prayer.
When I was travelling in Cheshire with Mr. Angier, where
the roads were exceedingly deep and foul, after he had told me
that Mr. Rogers used to say that a good conscience after trials,
was like a good wife after a distressing journey, he proceeded
to relate a comparison which Mr. Cotton had made : You, said
he, in this level country, (Lincolnshire,) in summer time, when
the roads are good and dry, are apt to think and say, surely
this road will never be foul and miry again ; and in the winter
you think, when the ways are deep and impassable, it is im-
possible that these ways should be dry again, or dusty ; just so
when God shines on the believer's soul with the light of his
524 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
countenance, he is apt to say, my " mountain stands so strong,
I shall never be moved;" but God "hides his face, then he is
troubled ;" and when God is withdrawn, oli, saith the Chris-
tian, it will never be otherwise ,• but he lives to see things
changed, the sun breaks out from under a cloud, and the black
clouds disperse, and so liis state is comfortably cleared up.
Again j\Ir. Cotton observed, that God ordered all changes in
the world, for comfort or correction to his own people, and
modelled all things according to their condition and necessities.
Thus much for the digression concernincr Mr. Cotton. To
return to IMr. Angier, whom we left at Boston with Mr. Cotton,
where his conversation w^as as became the gospel, only then and
afterwards, in reference to the work of conversion on his soul, he
was at a loss to decide from what time he must date it, whe-
ther before his declension at the University, or after : this case
of conscience he opened to an eminent divine, (Mr. White,)
with its aggravating circumstances ; yet that pious man gave
him encouragement, said with some confidence, that he was
persuaded the first work of God upon his heart at twelve years
of age, was effected by saving grace, notmthstanding his after-
miscarriages, and that God might have gracious purposes in
permitting such backslidings, for his further humiliation, and
preparation for further service.
At this time there lived in Mr. Cotton's family, a pious
young woman, called Ellen Winstanley, born near Wigan in
Lancashire, niece to Mrs. Cotton ; and it pleased God to in-
cline Mr. Angier to form a connection with her, so that within
a year after he came thither, they were married in the parish
church at Boston, April 16th, 1628 ; and they continued
there tiU his son John was born, who was baptized in the same
chiu-ch, June 13th, 1629. Mr. Anthony Tuckney being then
vicar, there; about this time several ministers and Christians
went into New England, to enjoy the liberty of the gospel, Mr.
Angier had some tlioughts of going also, however, he first took
a journey into Lancashire to visit his wife's relations, and take
leave of them ; they prevailed with him to preach at Bolton ;
R. M. one from Ringley chapel, hearing him, obtained from
him a promise to come to Ringley on a week day, and preach
with iVIr. ]Mather, then at Toxteth Park chapel, and prepar-
iuET to so into New En:i;Iand; Mr. ]\iather be^ran, INIr. Angier
was to succeed him ; but it being a hot summer day, and an
exceedingly throng place, Mr. Angier was overcome with heat,
and swooned away, not being. able to proceed further than about
the middle of his sermon. Mr. Mather, however, went up and
continued the services ; that evening many of the chapelry fol-
LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIER. 525
lowed Mr. Angier to E. Walworth's house, in Ringley-fokl, and
solicited him to be minister at Ringley ; he deferred his answer
until Monday se'nnight after ; at which time he was to deliver
the lecture at Bolton ; many of the chapelry then heard him, and
after the lecture, at one Widow RothwelFs, presented to him a
paper, wherein were the names of the principal people in the
chapelry, that vote in public concerns ; he asked, whether the
names of all were in that paper ; they told him, the names of
all that had votes ; but if he pleased all the rest might readily
be had. After Mr. Angler's return to Boston, a letter was sent
to him with the names of all the families, masters, and others,
and a letter was returned from him to the chapelry, informing
the people, that if they would fetch him and his family, he
might be theirs ; whereupon, in the beginning of September,
1630, two good men were sent with horses and furniture, John
Jackson, and Francis Critchley, who stayed several days at
Boston. Mr. Cotton judged the call to be clear, Mr. Angier
was well satisfied ; the two faithful messengers brought Mr.
Angier, his wife, his son, and his maid to Ringley, to the great
joy of those that feared God in the place. The text he preached
on, was Philemon 22, " But withal prepare me also a lodging,
for I trust that through your prayer I shall be given unto you."
Some time they had to lodge with another family, till a conve-
nient house was made ready ; his residence was in Ringley-
fold, in an ordinary house, with which he was well content ;
when people came to repetition in his little house, and wanted
room and seats, he said, Better want room than good company ;
people were kind and very helpful, and the word of God mightily
succeeded, and prospered exceedingly, " much people was
added to the Lord." Now Ringley had her day, a conversion-
day to not a few, an enlivening day to many of God's children,
that flocked thither like doves to the windows, so that all the
Christians that were capable and willing to attend private days
and duties of prayer, could not meet in one place ; two places
were often appointed for that purpose, as some yet living testify ;
this was a time of God's signal appearance, the Lord casting
many souls into the mould of the gospel, and a good impres-
sion remains to this very day, though many of that old de-
scription are fallen asleep.
With respect to his investiture in his ministerial office, he
had episcopal ordination. Mr. Cotton having interest witli
Lewis Bayley, a bishop in Wales, (who published the Practice
of Piety) he wrote to him, with Mr. Angier, and he ordained
him without subscription : yet Mr. Angier continued a Non-
conformist to the ceremonies, and therefore had some adversa-
52C LIFE OF THE KEV. J. AXCIER.
ries; for Dr. Bridgeman, bishop of Chester, lived at Great
Lever at that time, to whom were brouglit various and heavy
complaints against Mr. Angicr for not conforming. The bishop
sent for him, and expostulated with him, it being a kind of
affront to preach so near hitn, only about two miles distant ; he
admonished him, and exhorted him to conform ; he sent for
him many times, yet usually gave him very good words, and
professed his great respect for him. God ordered it so by his
providence, that the bishop's wife being a pious woman, was at
that time much afflicted in conscience, and Mr. Angier, by
God's blessing, was an instrument of much good to her, by his
counsels and prayers, which became a furtherance of his liber-
ty ; for the bishop would usually say, Mr. Angier, you must
see my wife before you go, and she interceded for him ; yet
notwithstanding the bishop was not suffered to be quiet, but
some or other inveighed strongly against Mr. Angier, insomuch
that he was suspended twice in one year, but restored by the me-
diation of his friends. At last the bishop said, — " Mr. Angier,
I am disposed to indulge you, but cannot ; for my Lord's
Grace of Canterbury (Archbishop Laud) hath rebuked me for
permitting two Nonconformists, the one within a mile on one
hand (good Mr. Horrocks at Dean Church) and another on the
other, yourself; and I am likely to come into disfavour on this
account. As for Mr. Horrocks, said he, my hands are bound,
I cannot meddle with him, (it is thought he meant by reason
of some promises to his wife :) but as for you, Mr. Angier, you
are a young man, and doubtless may get another place, and if
you were any where at a little further distance, I could better
connive at you ; for I study to do you a kindness, but cannot as
long as you are thus near me," &c. Some judged that one reason
was, the bishop's sons were at this time on the rising ground, and
his connivance might be an obstacle in the way of their prefer-
ment. He did suspend Mr. Angier, who continued a while
under that suspension ; however he had been ordained, June
28, 1629, and a provincial license was obtained for him, at a
provincial visitation at Manchester, Oct. 23, 1630. He conti-
nued, though not without some interruption, about a year and a
half at Ringley chapel.
One circumstance I shall take the liberty of inserting as evi-
dence of the grace of God accompanying Mr. Angier's ministry,
while he was at Ringley : — A Richard Hardman of RatclifJ-
bridge having received good from Mr. Angier's ministry, a
sister of his living near to Houghton chapel in Dean parish,
came with her husband to his house at Ratcliff-bridge on the
Saturday evening, the night before what is called Mid-Lent
LIFE OF THE REV, J. AXGIEli. 527
Sunday, to be merry at the wakes ; for on that day, Ilatcliff
wakes (wliich is a mad revelling or feasting time) began and
continued most of the week following. But God had turned
the bias of Richard Hardman's heart another way, and he
plainly told his sister and her husband, they would have been
more welcome at another time, but since they were then come,
they must not expect his accompanying them, but he rather
desired them to go along with him to llingley ; and after
family duty, he went into a private place to pray, where he
found so much of God's presence and assistance in a special
manner for his sister, that he was satisfied God would do her
good. They both went with him to llingley to hear Mr. An-
gier, where God did lay hold on her heart by a sovmd convic-
tion and deep humiliation ; formerly she was wont to scoff at
religion, but now she commenced the serious practice thereof,
so far as could be judged ; her husband also was much re-
strained, and both of them as they went home on the Monday,
heard Mr. Angier at the lecture at Bolton ; she being so over-
pressed in spirit, that she could not forbear but went to Mr.
Angier at widow Norris's house, where she liad some conversa-
tion with him : and she continued stedfiist in religion to her
dying day.
As for his removal from Ringley to Denton, it was thus : —
He continued suspended at llingley for near half a year, and
there was no hope of his restoration to his former liberty there.
At this time, Denton chapel in Manchester parish was vacant,
Mr. Broxholm being banished from thence also by a suspension :
the people seeking for a pious minister, several were proposed ;
Mr. Hyde of Norbury and Mr. Hyde of Denton had pitched
on Mr. Henry Root, but Mr. Holland of Denton did not con-
sent. He told them of a little man at llingley, one Mr. An-
gier, and, said he, I hear much good of him ; if you will give
him a call, you shall have my heart and hand. Accordingly
they sent to him, he came and preached at Denton, they gene-
rally approved of him and chose him, and he came thither in
the year 1632. He preached his first sermon on Easter Sun-
day : when Mr. Holland, and Mr. Hyde of Norbury, and Mr.
Hyde of Denton, brought him thither, — he said. By God's
grace he would attend to his work, but would look to them un-
der God for maintenance : there he continued to his dying day,
notwithstanding all public and personal vicissitudes, from which
he met with various interruptions in the course of 45 years and
4 months. His removal to a greater distance from the bishop,
did not serve him, even at Denton he found adversaries, but at
the same time he found God his friend there, who raised up
528 LIFE O;;" THE REV. J. ANGIER.
for liim many friends. Hear himself relating how the Lord
had dealt with him, in his Epistle Dedicatory prefixed to his
book, called A Help to better Hearts for better Times, printed
A. D. 1647. Thus he saith : " Though in nine or ten years
at Denton chapel, I preached not above two single years (to my
best remembrance) without interruption, and in that time was
twice excommunicated ; though Sabbath assemblies were some-
times distractedly and sorrowfully broken up, and my departure
from my habitation and people often forced, no means of return
left in sight, yet through the fervent prayers of the church,
God renewed liberty.
It was muttered that Mr. Angier had a hand in a certain book
which reflected upon the bishop, in consequence of which he was
much disturbed, and was in danger of being brought into the
High-Commission Court. The book was found in Stockport,
casting some reflections upon the archbishop's speech in the
Star-chamber ; and though Mr. Angier was suspectpd of it, yet
he professeth his innocence in his diary. But pursuivants
came to apprehend him, and this trouble occasioned him to sell
the land at Dedham which his father left him, worth £4Q. a
year, turning it into money, as being less visible, and so less
subject to danger. God hid his person, as he did Jeremiah and
Baruch. Some Lord's days he hath preached in his house,
because he could not safely go into the chapel ; afterwards he
travelled into Essex, and abode there with his friends till the
storm was blown over. R. R. a very stout man, once riding
with him near to Huntingdon, they were in danger of being
robbed, but he taking a pistol in his hand, gave Mr. Angier
the case, and God disposed the thieves to withdraw from them.
He once met a pursuivant on Delamere forest. Mr Angier
knew the piirsuivant at a great distance, and his wife was much
afraid, but the pursuivant passed by and discovered him not.
There was also one Starkey, an agent of the Spiritual Court in
Cheshire, an adversary to Mr. Angier, who frequently came
and disturbed him, whom God took away. Mr. Holland tra-
velled to York for him once, if not oftener ; where he had an
old friend high in oflfice, who told him he would do any thing
for him he desired. Mr. Angier informed me that as he was
once going to York to get off' his suspension or excommunica-
tion. Providence cast him at Wakefield on the Lord's day : on
hearing Mr. Lister, the vicar there, he was exceedingly pleased
with his preaching, and perceiving that the Lord's supper was to
be administered that day in the church, Mr. Angier stayed and
joined with the assembly ; he had his liberty of posture, and
found the Lord graciously present with him in the ordinances
LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIEll. 529
of that day ; having got a good repast, he went on his journey,
and prospered in his business. He often inquired after Mr.
Lister, for whom he had a great respect ; and indeed he had
cathohc principles, and loved aliquid Christie any thing of
Christ wherever he saw it, and continued this good old Puritan
spirit to his dying day. Mr. Lister, when he died, had been
vicar of Wakefield 50 years; he was buried there, Jan. 17,
1678. . When these storms were blown over, and new confusions
arose in the kingdom ; when civil dissensions and open wars
took place, he continued in his work and station : and though he
adhered to the Parliament, yet his affectionate prayers for the
king, temperate spirit, and faithful attachment to his principles,
procured him good will from his greatest adversaries ; he main-
tained a friendly intercourse with all sober persons of different
persuasions in political and ecclesiastical affairs, instances
whereof I could give, and testimonials of his inoffensive beha-
viour, even from such as differed much from him : but I forbear,
his own works justify him before men. About this time his
first wife died, I)ec. 14, 1642, shortly after she had borne him
a daughter. She had been eTcceedingly tender in her bodily
constitution, and of a troubled spirit ; she occasioned him some
trials ; though she was a gracious woman, yet being of a melan-
choly liabit, Satan had a great advantage in casting his fiery
darts into such combustible matter, which occasioned much
affliction both to herself and her husband, though he bore it
with unparalleled wisdom and patience. She died at the be-
ginning of the wars, intimating to her husband, who she thought
might prove a good second wife, and, according to her sugges-
tion, about a year after he married Mrs. Margaret Moseley
of Ancoats, a very prudent, pious gentlewoman : they were
married very publicly in Manchester church, in the heat of the
wars ; which was noticed as an act of faith in them both. Mr.
Horrocks and Mr. Root preached the marriage sermons, provi-
dence directing their thoughts to pitch both on one text, which
was Gen. ii. 18, "I will make him a help-meet for him :" both
presaging what indeed she proved, an excellent, suitable part-
ner, a tender mother to his three children, and a useful mother
in Israel ; for though God denied her issue, yet she was very
fruitful in good works, of excellent disposition and well ordered
activity, of a public spirit and rare accomplishments for piety,
charity, and sobriety ; with whom he lived with abundant, mu-
tual satisfaction, above 80 years. She died of a tympany,
and was buried in Denton chapel, Oct. 31, 1675 ; after whose
death he lived solitarily, till God translated him to her. Nor
was the solemnity on his marriage, any result of vain-glory or
VOL. I. 2 M
530 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
ostentation, but well considered ; it was his settled judgment
and advice, that marriage should be publicly solemnized ; yea,
his view also was, that a regular approach should be made to
marriage by mutual contract : this rule he followed when his
daughter Elizabeth was to be married to a Yorkshire minister.*
He stayed at that little chapel at Denton in those free times
wherein he was at liberty, and had some calls to greater places,
as it respects worldly preferment, but that was not of much
consideration in his account. Some of his brethren can yet
testify how much he was courted to more public spheres of la-
bour ; but his frequent refusal was evidence of his great self-
denial. Few men in his circumstances shut the mouths of ma-
lignant censurers on that point, as he did. Old Mr. Langley,
of Middlewich in Cheshire, may also be mentioned, who was
minister there before the wars ; and though he was seven years
together silenced, yet when he was restored to his liberty, he
returned to them, where he had but a very pitiful maintenance,
and continued there to the day of his death. Before one of the
bishops of Chester, since the deprivation of ministers by the
Act of Uniformity, it was observed that it was a signal favour
to Mr. Angier, that ha should be permitted to live with that
people still, as a reward for his tarrying with them when he
might have removed to his greater advantage : and indeed all
his actions spoke very great self-denial. How much worldly
wealth he might have hoarded up, if he had taken what was
offered him and retained what he had, take an instance or two :
Mr. L. sent a man and horses for him to bring him into
Craven, 30 or 40 miles, to baptize his child. Mr. Angier
went, preached in Gisburn church (which some remember to
this day) and God did marvellously work upon his wife's heart
by that sermon. When he returned, Mr. L. gave him five
broad pieces of gold into his hand, desiring him to accept
them ; but he only took one, and gave him four back again.
Another urging him to accept a broad piece, he absolutely de-
clined the present, excusing himself with much modesty. An-
other time preaching a lecture at Braintree, a gentleman came
to him, a stranger, desiring him to accept a 20s. piece of gold,
for the offer of which he thanked him, but refiised. But I for-
bear more instances.
About this time, the good people of Ringley exerted them-
selves to obtain Mr. Angier again to be their minister, because
he was first theirs, and forcibly driven from them ; they
thought they had the best right to him, therefore they wrote a
large and pathetic letter to Mr. Angier, which I have by me,
" See Page 36.
LIFE OF THE liEV. J. AXGIEK, 531
entreating him to return, addressing themselves to Denton peo-
ple, with engaging terms persuading them to release him, if it
were but one year, to settle things amongst them ; and again
affectionately urging ministers that were called on to give their
advice, to direct him that way. The letter is full of christian
affection, and deserves recording, to manifest the endearing love
of a people to their quondam pastor, and their high respect for
him. Take a few expressions.
Reverend and much honoured Sh\
We whose names are here under-written, being
few in number, and long and not a little afflicted in condition,
belonging to that unworthy congregation to whom God first
lent you, (in this county) having for a great while been pressed
under the sad burden of the heaviest affliction that this life can
endure, namely, not the bare fear, but the plain sense of the
Almighty's displeasure and hot indignation gone out against us.
For a short time, he was pleased to cause his glory to shine in
our public and private assemblies, and to set up his standard in
our house of worship ; giving many of us, and others about us,
our first effectual call, and coming near to all his people. But
oh, how soon began our dark night, (nay, age) to approach.
God, by his all-disposing providence, has been saying to this
sad place for 20 years and upwards : " Let very few or none
more of this people be converted ; let them have little of my
presence in their house of public meeting, let none of my mi-
nisters be set over them for their profit ; let them be decreased
by death, by schisms, and by scandals ; yea, let their public
assemblies be broken up, and let help and healing be looked for
in vain ; let them look for light, and behold obscurity, for
brightness, but walk in darkness." For these things, reverend
sir, we do mourn, and our hearts are troubled : and to whom
(under God) shall we lay open our sad afflictions, thereby to
get ease, but to yourself, whom it pleased God once to make
his blessed instrument for planting and watering so many souls
amongst us ? We have had experience of your love to us, for
which we desire to be thankful and do bless God ; and do
therefore make bold to acquaint you with our broken condition,
entreating your intercession for us : and if it were the good will
of the Lord, your return to us, with the consent of your people,
without offence, though it could be but for a short space, &c.
And thus they go on imploring it with great importunity
for the church's sake, and the Lord's sake, though but for one
year.
2 ^I 2!
532 LIFE OF THE RTi:V. J. ANGIER.
To tliis there are twenty-four names subscribed ; but the
people of Denton having possession, would by no means yield ;
and ministers gave in their judgment, upon due consideration
of circumstances, that for the public good of the church, Mr.
Angier should continue at Denton, in which he was willing to
acquiesce.
As to Mr. Angier's judgment in ecclesiastical affairs : in
free times, as he had not turned aside to conformity on the one
hand, so now he adhered firmly to sound and catholic principles,
not turning aside to any ways of sinful separation ; though some
of his intimate friends forsook him, and some of his brethren
censured him for too liberal principles and practices in church-
administration ; yet as he had a tender respect for congregational
brethren, so they had, (at least many of them) a great reverence
for him ; he was a principal member of the reverend class, or
association of ministers at Manchester, and was of great account,
and very useful among them ; such was their esteem of him,
that they would scarce do any thing of importance without him ;
he oftentimes presided as chairman or moderator ; frequently
attended the provincial assembly at Preston ; had ruling elders
in his own congregation, but loved not dividing principles, nor
distinguishing names, nor lordly domineering by arbitrary im-
positions. I have often heard him say, that in a little time,
who ever lived, would see that much of the government of Christ
would be carried on in particular churches amongst themselves.
He was of a sweet, moderate, healing spirit, both at home
and abroad ; yet he was very faithful, and dealt plainly, where-
by some were for a time offended, and possibly some of his
principles or proceedings suited not the principles or humours
of many ; yet even those persons received what he spoke with
high veneration ; and if at any time they broke out into passions
or unruly animosities, his love and lenity, his mild carriage and
compassionate spirit, did so mollify and qualify their minds, that
in time, they were either overcome to a compliance, or won to
cherish apprehensions of his candour and ingenuousness; so
that I have often thought of that passage of Melchior Adam,
one of the German divines, as applicable to Mr. Angier ; speak-
ing of Schwebellius, who had much to do with Anabaptists, and
Schwenckfeldians, Quorum impetus mansuetudine fregit, pati-
entia vicit, et lenitate in ordinem coegit ; * thus this good Mr.
Angier "hath by mildness broke, by patience conquered, and by
lenity reduced to good order" such as have been exasperated by
the severity and rigour of others.
And with respect to his judgment and practice in public and
" Melcli. Ad. in Vit. Ger. Theo. page 65.
LIFE OF THE llEA^ J. ANGIER. 533
political affairs. He was fixed in his attachment to Monarchy,
and was not wheeled about with the change of times ; he was
one of those who bore their testimony against the unparalleled
murder of King Charles the First, and the usurpation attending
it ; he refused to enter into The Engagement^ though to his
great prejudice, for he told a pious minister that he lost df'SOO.
by his refusal of it. He durst not give God thanks for the
army's success against the loyal Scots ; he poured out many
hearty prayers and tears for his present Majesty, asserted his
right to the crown in the face of apparent danger ; joined his
brethren in that solid plea for the non-subscribers of the En-
gagement, which was to be true and faithful to the Common-
wealth of England, as it is now established without king or house
of lords, for which they were threatened and endangered, till
God broke that snare. Some troubles Mr. Angier and some
ministers and gentlemen went through, for owning his majesty's
cause, they were carried prisoners to Liverpool, and from thence
to Ormskirk because of the plague ; they had indeed permission
for their friends to visit them, and free intercourse ; they spent
much time in prayer, and thus strengthened one another's hands
in God, and left a good savour behind them, the remembrance
of which continues to this day.
At this time was the conception, and afterwards the birth of
that excellent treatise of Mr. Edward Gee's, then minister of
Eccleston, and prisoner with them, about prayer. The occasion
of which was this : Amongst the debates conducted by those
holy men, this case of conscience was discussed, on which they
desired satisfaction, namely. Whether God may disregard his
people's prayers, grounded upon his promise, and seem by his
providence to answer prayers which are directly the reverse ?
whether this can be shown to be the case by any examples ? in
what sense God may do this "? what may be the reason thereof.''
what use may be made of God's proceedings in this way ? This
multifarious question being the peculiar subject of that day, and
not being themselves satisfied in their present conversation, they
judged it proper to refer it to a fuller discussion by some able
pen, and pitched upon Mr. Gee, who undertook it, and wrote
an excellent treatise, which is extant, and of great use at this
day.
Other cases of conscience did occur at that time, wherein
Mr. Angler's advice was desired. One was, whether justices of
the peace, or other officers might take commissions from, and
act under the usurping powers ? Mr. Angier thought they
might, bringing instances of civil officers acting in their stations
during the six years of Athaliah's usurpation ; there is a large
534! LIFE OF THE KEY. J. ANGIER.
Treatise in manuscript upon this subject. Many such cases
were propounded to him, and judiciously resolved ; and indeed
he was esteemed by good men, the living oracle of this period,
as Mr. Hildcrsham had been before him, and by some ill-willed
persons he was called the idol of Lancashire, because of the
great value most men set upon liim. But more of this subject
shall be subjoined in the close, respecting his faculty in resolv-
ing weighty cases of conscience.
He was not a man for war, yet his counsels and prayers had
influence on weighty affairs. And this was the sphere in which
he moved, not thrusting his sickle into another's harvest, but
declaring his judgment as a minister of the gospel, when con-
sulted with. He could not but inquire how it went with the
church of God at home and abroad, that he might accordingly
order his prayers ; and for this reason it is said of the reverend
Mr. Hooker, of New England, that he was a great inquirer
after news ; he also said he did it on the same account ; and
thus like Nehemiah he made enquiry, not out of Athenian
curiosity, but christian conscientiousness, to sympathize with
the church of God ; he had no hand in public revolutions,
hence it was that he enjoyed so much peace, and that all the
parties had a high esteem of him ; in Lord Delamere's appear-
ance for his majesty ''s cause, Mr. Angier stayed at home; though
his heart and prayers were that way, yet ne foresaw the event,
and in that, God graciously heard his prayers for preventing
the effusion of blood, and bringing in the king in so remarkable
a manner. The year following, in consequence of this change,
Mr. Angier kept solemn days of thankfulness, though he also
predicted an approaching storm on many of the ministers of
Christ, who could not run the same length that others did ; at
a service at Eccles he gave remarkable hints of what was coming
on, from Exod. xiv. 12, in a full assembly of several descrip-
tions of hearers ; but so wisely, that the most malicious Momus
could not take advantage from his sermon ; and indeed, he
might be allowed to speak what others could not, his integrity
and known loyalty, his uprightness and peaceableness being
deeply engraven on the consciences of all that knew him, and
his name being precious to all that heard him. When the Act
of Uniformity came out, he preached very plainly on Esther iv.
1. It was very admirable to observe what appropriate scrip-
tures he chose, for public or personal occasions, and how sweetly
and suitably he accommodated his matter at those times.
His natural genius led him mostly to be a son of consolation.
He had a peculiar gift in opening the sweet promises of the gos-
pel, and pouring oil into wounded consciences, cncoiu'aging
LIFE OF THE llEV. J. ANGIER. 535
drooping spirits, and answering desponding objections, to abun-
dant satisfaction. He could, (and sometimes did) act the part
of a Boanerges, to thunder out the menaces of the law against
secure and obstinate sinners ; and the Lord blessed his ministry
both ways, for levelling high mountains, and lifting up valley-
souls. He was an excellent text-man, a solid expositor ; his
way was to compare one scripture with another, wherein he had
a singular art, showing the main scope of the Holy Spirit, rais-
ing pertinent doctrines ; though he had consulted expositors,
of which he had great choice, yet he made no ostentation of
his acquaintance with them by numerous quotations, but ex-
tracted the marrow out of them, and pitched upon what seemed
most proper.
He did not concern himself with controversies in the pulpit,
but preached the most plain, practical, experimental truths, and
often inculcated the essentials of religion, still teaching the
people knowledge, insomuch that the Christians who were
brought up under his ministry were solid, judicious, intelligent,
and peaceable professors, few warping off to the errors of the
times ; and if he had occasion to deal with the petulant sceptics
or dogmatizers of the age, he laid down positive truths, and
solidly confirmed them, without following the wild vagaries of
erratic spirits to disprove them ; judging with Zuinglius, (Veris
intellectis, falsa etiam baud difficulter agnoscvuitur,) When
truth is discovered, error is detected, and is either acknowledged
or falls of itself. But indeed he loved not disputes, nor did his
studies or genius carry him out to controversies, except God''s
glory, and the necessary defence of truth required it, and then
also he managed things so calmly and fairly, that he won ad-
versaries, and won credit to his cause. Dissensions were his
burden, unity his delight, and God gave him his desire, " for
the divisions of Reuben he had sad thoughts of heart ;'"'' and
for disputes among divines, was ready to breathe out with honest
Summerhald, that sad phrase, Quis me tandem liberabit ab ista
rixosa theologia. Who will at length set me free from this quar-
relsome theology ? Mr. Angier constantly expressed sad regret
on such unwelcome occasions of dispute and contention ; his
usual expression being, this is tedious work, and goes on
wearily.
It is true, he was a great peace-maker in sacred and civil
broils. If any of his neighbours had quarrels with one ano-
ther, the matter was brought before him, and his wisdom found
out some expedient to reconcile them, and his grave exhortations
usually prevailed for accommodation ; if not, he laid it deeply
to heart, and still made it the matter of prayer ; but God ordi-
536 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
narily blessed him with success, and gave him tlie benediction
pronounced for peace-makers, to be called one of the children
of God. In some cases of difference, I have known him, (said
one that had reason to know, and is faithful in the relation,)
give money out of his purse to compose some quarrels ; and
though those days were very grievous to him, yet when his
success answered his designs, the issue and review were sweet
to his spirit, and he did not repent his fatiguing labours.
Mr. Angier did not offer to the Lord that which cost him
nothing, he engaged his wliole man in that which he went
about, not doing the work of the Lord negligently : he took
great pains in studying his sermons, and they were elaborate,
full fraught with spiritual treasure, very exact, no waste words
nor repetitions ; but he went on smoothly, pertinently and sen-
tentiously, though he studied matter rather than words, and
never used notes in all his life, but took pains to commit his
sermons to memory, which he had before dihgently penned ;
he stood not to look for proofs, but repeated the words of scrip-
ture, he quoted exactly, yet memoriter, so improving them to
the present occasion, holding up his hands all the time of his
sermon, speaking with an equal, audible voice, with much
ardour and energy both of spirit and speech ; his sermons were
not long nor full of di-v-isions, but well coiTipacted and metho-
dical, (which is a help to memory,) and under a few particulars
he had suitable and perspicuous enlargements ; he preached
longer in his younger days, and in his old age, about an hour,
scarcely any more or less, and it exceedingly spent him, being
usually in a state of perspiration at his coming out of the pul-
pit ; warming a scarlet cloth, he laid it on hi,s breast, for he was
very subject to catch cold after preaching ; and I have heard
him say of old ]\lr. Rogers, that in his early life when he came
out of the pulpit, one stayed him, to have some conversation
with him, then another, in the open air when the pores were
open : but he found sensible prejudice from it, and learned to
take more care of himself, for people did not consider.
It was little less than a miracle, that a man of such a weak
constitution as Mr. Angler's was, could bear up so long under
such daily and indefatigable labours ; his constant preaching
twice every Lord's day, most part of his time travelling, and
preaching often abroad on week-days, his monthly attendance
at the class-meetings of the Presbytery, his frequent journeys to
the Provincial assembly, his constantly assisting in the ordi-
nation of ministers, observing many private fasts amongst his
own people and abroad, yea, extraordinary fasts in public,
especially the monthly fasts kept for Ireland, at that time ; he
LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIEli. 537
ordinarily kept the fast himself, wherein he spent six or seven
hours in wrestling with God in prayer, or in preaching ; he
was wonderfully enlarged, and had a great measure of the
Spirit poured upon him, and his body was much supported,
for he said, private fasts spent his natural strength more than
his sabbath-day's work did, as he still kept the posture of
kneeling, and feelingly united with others that were exercising ;
for he put others on to pray, and himself closed up the day
with a short but fervent melting prayer, being more brief to-
wards the latter end of his days.
His observing fasts with his people was an evidence that his
delight was in that kind of exercise ; for he hath often said,
that one great thing which tied and endeared him to that poor
people, was, that whenever they had occasion they appointed a
fast and joined together in prayer, and also in praise ; and he
had a particular regard for his worthy friend. Col. Richard
Holland, on that account, because whenever he had been in
trouble, he constantly called good people together to pray to
God with him.
He was so constant in his ministerial work, and diligent in
his studies and preaching to his own people, that though Mr.
Harrison of Ashton, his intimate friend, and he lived near
together for twenty years, yet never did they exchange places
for one day in all that time to relieve themselves ; Mr. Herle
told him he had a weak body, yet a Venice glass, well looked
to, would last a considerable time: and notwithstanding his
excessive labours, God maintained in him a considerable mea-
' sure of health, possibly more than he enjoyed in his younger
years ; and next to divine Providence, much may be ascribed
to his severe temperance, observance of diet, composedness of
mind, and care of himself, according to his experience of what
he had found salutary or hurtful to him : and though he was
of a far weaker constitution than Mr. Harrison, and older by
several years, yet he survived him ; to whom he sometimes
said, " Mr. Harrison, you think you can do any thing, but your
body will fail you," and indeed it did, for though that learned,
gracious, zealous man of God had a very strong, healthful,
robust body, yet by his excessive studies, and assiduous labours,
and watchings, and sitting so close without fire in cold winter
nights, his sinews became so contracted, and his body so weak,
that some years before he died he could not stir hand or foot ;
yet was hearty, and would often say, " If I were in the pulpit
7 should be well."" But to return to Mr. Angier : he was a
man much in prayer, it may be said of him as of David, Psal.
cxix. 164, " That he prayed or praised God seven times
538 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
a-day :" at least, twice (I tliink thrice) witli his wife, twice
alone, and twice with his family ; in his family exercises he
was very profitable, every one got a verse or more out of the
chapter read at prayer : he gathered some useful instructions,
short but valuable, and accommodated to the condition of the
family : eight o'clock in the morning, and betwixt five and six
at night before supper, were the ordinary seasons for family
worship, beginning with a psalm, by which the family had
notice to come together. His constant course was to have a
chapter read after dinner and supper, before they rose from the
table, and before thanks were returned ; and he said he took
up that custom of having a chapter read at meals, from Mr.
Rogers, of Dedham ; worthy Mr. Samuel Hildersham had con-
stantly two stanzas of a psalm sung after meals, so had the first
christian emperor, Constantine the Great, as Eusebius tells us ;
and I have known some profit from it.
And as Mr. Angier was much in prayer, so he was mighty
in prayer ; fervent as well as frequent, he wept and made sup-
plication, Jacob-like ; yea, he was an Israelite — a prince with
God ; he was by some called weeping Angier ; for as he seldom
rose off his knees without tears, so some have observed tears
at some seasons trickle down to his band in great abundance.
Mr. Isaac Ambrose, in his Diary printed with his Media,
saith, " Upon a solemn day of fasting and j^rayer in Manches-
ter church, Mr. A. concluding, his prayer was so affecting,
that I believe it melted all hearts : and for my own," continues
he, " it pleased the Lord so to soften and to break it, that so
far as I remember, it was never in such a melting frame in any
public ordinance before; and as it affected men's hearts, so it was
prevalent and reached God's heart, as the event demonstrated :
thus the in-wrought prayer (Sirjo-tc ivEpyou/xlvrj) of a righteous
man availeth much. Certainly Mr. Angier had many remark-
able returns of prayer ; whereof it may be, something shall
be added out of his own papers hereafter. In such great es-
teem was he generally held, that he was often sent for to pray
with melancholy persons, and some possessed, as was supposed ;
and at times they brought such persons to him from afar, and
God was pleased in some cases to hear prayer : but various
particulars reported, I dare not relate, except I had clear and
vmdoubted testimony for the truth of reports.
Besides as he was instant and prevalent in prayer, so he was
excellent and abundant in praises. Frequent ejaculations and ex-
pressions of God's grace and mercy were in his mind and mouth :
they that conversed with him, often heard (Deo gratias) thanks
be to God, from him. But as he took more occasions than many
LIFE OF THE llEV. J. ANGIEll. 539
others, of keeping days of thanksgiving, so God gave liim still
more occasions of thankfulness : and it is usual for God to put
new songs of praise into the mouths of those who are thankful.
It was his frequent observation, that when a day of thanksgiving
was appointed, God sent in some fresh matter to increase joy in
the Lord ; and sometimes the mtervening providence m.erited
such a day as much as the former : so well doth God take the
discharge of this pleasing duty, that he encourages to it. And
O how enlarged was he in those days and duties ! He seemed
to be transported into ecstacies of admiration : he even appeared
to be elevated above the earth, amongst the celestial inhabitants :
his heart and mouth were enlarged and raised to a high strain,
in rehearsing the loving-kindness of the Lord. He expatiated
especially upon spiritual mercies, to the astonishment of those
that united with him ; often adopting David's holy rhapsody,
2 Sam. vii. 18—20, " Who am I, O Lord God ? and what is
my father's house, that thou hast brought me hitherto .''" It
would have done one's heart good to hear him an hour together
reckoning up the mercies of God, in infancy, childhood, youth,
riper age, in all estates, relations, conditions, afflictions ; and
then magnifying the free grace of God in giving his Son for us,
his Spirit to us, promises, privileges, gospel ordinances, &c.
and afterwards the great kindness of God to his particular con-
gregation in public liberty, for which he kept many days of
thanksgiving, and for national mercies ; yea, there was not any
of his relations, or in his congregation, under any affliction or
temptation, but as he prayed for them, so he gave God thanks
for their deliverance. He shared the sensations of every one's
heart : he mourned with such as mourned, rejoiced with such
as rejoiced. God had given him a sympathizing heart; he
might say, who is weak, and I am not weak ? *
But especially he was deeply concerned for the church of
God both at home and abroad : he gave God no rest, but was
the Lord's remembrancer, standing between the living and the
dead, in the breach that sin had made, to hold off wrath. He
had great interest at the throne of grace, and notably improved
it, by believing prayer, and filling his mouth with arguments.
He had skill and disposition for his work : often was he in the
mount, and conversed with God as a man with his friend. He
had an excellent art in humble expostulation with God : sui'cly
the church militant parted with a friend when he was translated
to glory. It appeared in the congregation that God had set
him over, what weight he bore up, by the dreadful effects at-
tending his death: thereby the people lost their privileges; for
• 2 Cor. xi. 29.
540 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
from the day of his funeral to this day, no Nonconformist has
ever preached in his pulpit, so that it appears for whose sake
the liberty was maintained. Denton has found the smart, it
will be well if England feel not the fatal consequences of the
removal of such pillars. Methusalem died the same year that
the deluge overspread the world : Hippo was sacked by the
Vandals, immediately after Augustine's death there : Heidel-
berg taken after Pareus's death : Luther died a little before the
wars in Germany. Lord, prevent temporal evils threatened,
that the prediction may not be accomplished, that the righteous
is taken away from the evil to come:* this worthy, fallen in
Israel, speaks heavy things to England.
Mr. Angier was very solemn and grave in all his addresses
to God, or in his delivering messages from God. It was his
usual manner, before he spoke a word in prayer, to pause a
considerable while looking upwards, composing his thoughts,
possessing his heart with awful apprehensions of the divine
Majesty, and by mental ejaculations imploring God's quicken-
ing presence , and after a season, he arrived gradually to a
great degree of zeal and fervency in prayer, agonizing in the
duty with sweat and tears, which rendered his speaking at some
seasons both painful and difficult; yet was he not only actuated
by zeal and affection, but had also appropriate matter^ exact
method, and well adapted expressions. Mr. Harrison was wont
to call him a ponderous man, for every word had its weight
and emphasis : he had no waste words either in prayer or
preaching, but as his affections were excited, so his words were
few and well weighed.
He was not usually long, except upon extraordinary occasions,
and then not tedious, because variety of matter and his empas-
sioned manner rendered his prayers interesting. He proposed
this question, whether the Spirit of God did ordinarily dictate
matter of prayer? he did conceive it might, from Rom. viii. 26,
" The Spirit helpeth, for we know not what we should pray
for."" Yet he was far from enthusiasm ; nor was he altogether
against forms of prayer, nor joining in public with the liturgy,
though he judged that inconvenient modes of worship must be
our affliction, but may not be our sin, when we are not in a ca-
pacity to procure a remedy ; nor did he think that mere pre-
sence signifies consent to or the approbation of every thing we
hear. As for the Lord's prayer, his judgment was, tliat it was de-
livered chiefly by our Saviour as a pattern or platform of prayer,
to which (as to several heads) all our prayers should be referred.
He seldom insisted long upon a text, (except he took a
• Isa. Ivii. 1.
LIFE OF THE KEV. J. ANGIEK. 541
scripture before him) because, as he used to say, a minister may
have frequent occasions in the course of his ministry, to return
again to the same subjects, therefore he needs not to say all
that can be said upon it at once, but extract the marrow of the
text, and select what at present he judgeth proper to the prin-
pal occasion for which he chose it, and drive that nail home :
yea, though a minister should say all that he can collect upon
such a text or subject, yet he will be forced to leave some
gleanings that he may return again to gather up, and those as
pertinent and useful as he obtained at his first vintage-reaping :
so just was that saying of Tertullian, I adore the fulness of the
Scriptures. * On quoting the following passage, Heb. xi. 32,
" For the time would fail me tell of Gideon ;" he observed,
that a minister must have respect, not only to what he should
say, but to the time in which he is to speak or write it ; all
things cannot be spoken at one time. Christ taught as the
people were able to bear ; people, yea the best people have
but a measure of attention, memory, or susceptibility. Good
old Mr. Horrocks was wont to say, I would rather leave my
hearers longing than lothing.
And as Mr. Angier constantly preached, so he carefully ca-
techized the youth of his congregation, according to the Assem-
bly's Shorter Catechism, and explained it, opening the princi-
ples of religion in a plain and familiar way ; sometimes taking
an account of their proficiency. If he heard of the breaking out
of sin in any of his hearers, he faithfully admonished them pri-
vately, and sometimes publicly, and sometimes he sent for the
persons and pleaded with them, with much gravity and humi-
lity and bowels of compassion. Ordinarily when strangers
came to settle under his ministry, he sent for them, conversed
with them, counselled, instructed, and exhorted them : thus he
dealt with new married persons ; and indeed God brought seve-
ral from other places to fix themselves under his ministry, for
the benefit of the ordinances.
His usual saying was, if God will help me to take care of my
duty, I will leave him to take care of my comfort. His main
design was to bring glory to God in the conversion of sinners,
and edification of saints : the attaining of these ends was his
reward ; when any sent him tokens of their regard, he looked
at God in it, and was more glad of it as an indication of their
proficiency, than a means of his enriching himself. So Paul,
Phil. iv. 17, " Not becavise I desire a gift, but I desire fruit
that may abound to your account." Thus it is said of Buchol-
ster : (Gratiam munerum, quam munera, et theologiae fructum,
* Adoro Scripturae plenitudinem.
542 LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIER-
qutam fortunam maluit,) " He rather chose and accepted more
cordially a kindness iu the giving, than the greatness of the
gift ; being better pleased with the fruit of his ministry, than
merely their bounty.
Mr. Angier was much conversant in the holy scriptures, they
were daily his delight, and lie had an excellent art in choosing
and adapting texts to divine providences, so that the word of
God might be a comment on his work. Seldom did any re-
markable providence or sudden accident fall out, but he either
made it the main subject of his discourse, or particularly applied
to it something he had in hand. He had a singular skill in
preaching funeral sermons ; though he rarely made historical
reflections on the dead, yet intelligent hearers might gather
important instructions or admonitions from his doctrinal conclu-
sions, and close application naturally resulting. He conducted
himself with much reverence in God's public ordinances, mind-
ing duly what was in hand. He constantly wrote sermons
when he was at any time a hearer, for example to others, to pre-
vent wanderings of mind, and for his own edification. He was
also full of candour and ingenuousness ; though men's gifts
were weak, yet if they were honest he would commend them.
Never did any hear him despise or disparage others ; but as he
much desired to have young ministers preach with him, so if
they missed in it, he would plainly and privately tell them of
their slips, or encourage such as did well. What he spoke was
from his heart ; on what others spoke, he woijld put a candid
construction, if it would admit of it. When the minister that
preached for him came out of the pulpit, he usually met him
with this salutation, " Thanks be to God " or " blessed be the
Lord C never returning thanks to the minister, (so far as I
know) but to God for his help to the minister.
He was very excellent and exemplary in his administration
of the Lord's supper, as it respected method, matter, and man-
ner. That ordinance was celebrated every month, and he had
many hundreds of communicants ; especially in these late times,
good people from all adjacent parts and counties came flocking
thither, and there were feasted and refreshed. I have known
many strangers come ten, some twenty miles, yea, some thirty
miles, to attend on the ordinances at Denton ; so that there
were often more communicants than could sit on seats in the
chapel, and officers went amongst them to see if there were no
intruders ; for either they were known by face to them, or had
testimonials from approved ministers, or eminent Christians.
His exactness, gravity, and enlargedness, were such, that the
first time I partook there, a worthy gentleman bade me observe
IJFE OF THE REV. J, ANGIER. 543
him diligently, saying he is the exactest man in Lancashire in
this work : and I thought young mmisters might take notice of
him as a pattern worthy of imitation. And O how many souls
have been quickened, comforted, and nourished in that ordi-
nance, in that place ! what gracious words proceeded out of his
mouth, and what gracious impressions have been made on com-
municants'' hearts !
He was very diligent and pains-taking in his private studies,
and very much enjoyed his closet retirements. It is true, he
was not able to read much in his latter days, but he had variety
of employment, sometimes reading, sometimes praying, medi-
tating, writing : he wrote many choice and excellent letters —
pithy, pertinent, profitable, upon several occasions, some of
which he copied out, and were they collected into one entire
volume they would be valuable. He often complained of his
memory, saying he had a memory for nothing but to remember
his own sermons ; but indeed his memory was not to be slighted :
however, his solid judgment, clear understanding in divine
mysteries, and gracious, experienced heart, shone forth in all
he did, and helped his invention, while continual exercise made
his memory retentive, and strong affections especially carried
him through all ; for a sanctified heart hath never a bad me-
mory.
He was of a holy, heavenly frame of spirit to eye God in all,
and to improve all occurrences for spiritual advantage : the
like instance of an exact conversation hath seldom been found ;
I was once riding along with him, and a minister of my ac-
quaintance, whom I met, asked me who he was, being passed
by I told him ; he said, if there could be an angel on horse-
back I would say that is he : and a servant who lived with him
many years, and knew his manner of life, attests that, according
to his judgment, he walked as near to the rule of the word, and
pattern of our Saviour, as is possible for a man to do on this
side glory, excelling in every grace, exemplary in every good
work, elevated above the ordinary rank of Christians, as it was
said of Bucholtzer, as to liveliness : Vivida in eo 07nnia fu-
erunty vivida vox, vividi oculi, vividcs manus, gestus omnes
vividi ;* Voice, eyes, hands, gesture, all full of vivacity. Thus
this man of God, Mr. Angier, did act above his strength and
years in God's work and worship, and was so full of warmth
and energy, that it plainly appeared he was actuated and ani-
mated with a spirit beyond his own, for God was with him, and
he was much with God.
He was affable to all, amiable in converse with his intimate
* Melch. Ad. Wx. Buchol. page 55G.
544 LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIER.
friends, frank in discovering himself, without subtle reserves
or peevishness of spirit ; he was so far as any could discern,
aopyy]TOQ kui a)(oXog, Avithout anger or choler; howbeit his
natural constitution being sanguine, might incline him to pas-
sion, yet the large measure of grace wherewith God had en-
dowed him, and continual mortification, had so sweetened and
lenified his disposition, that to all who conversed with him, he
seemed to be compounded of love and kindness.
Besides he was a person of much gravity, his mildness
did not degenerate into fondness or levity, nor his gravity into
moroseness or austerity ; but a kindly mixture of mildness,
majesty, and attractive sweetness, put such an awful reverence
into his countenance, as did at once daunt impudent profane-
ness, and animate religious modesty ; none were so audacious
as to be found in any unhandsome act before him whose very
looks gave check to licentiousness, and none that knew him
were afraid to open their spiritual cases to him, finding him
so tender and condescending to them upon all occasions : in-
deed he was fruitful in holy discourse to all. Upon a question
or case of conscience, he had the faculty to enlarge suitably and
edifyingly to the satisfaction of the proposers ; if company were
silent, himself usually proposed a profitable question, or a
proof of some principle of religion, or the meaning of some
scripture, as matter of discourse for mutual edification : some-
times in travelling with a minister, he would request him
(when the road was free) to repeat the heads of the sermon he
preached or heard last.
He was exceedingly liberal to the poor, both in giving and
free-lending ; it was strange to observe how much he gave out
of so little; he had a liberal hand and an open heart, he
devised liberal things, making frequent collections in public,
improving his interest for the indigent, or in public affairs :
his left hand knew not what his right hand did; one in-
stance take, when the collection was made for Northampton,
1675, he was then indisposed, and went not out for fourteen
weeks or thereabouts, and therefore desired his kinsman to
preach on 2 Cor. viii. 7, which he did, preparing the people
in the morning for the collection in the afternoon ; at which,
because he could not be present, he sent his charity by his
servant, which was not inconsiderable, but afterwards gave
privately three times as much as he had done in public by
his servant. In cases of collection, he would oft put on
both his children and servants to give : he also sent to poor
widows, orphans, and others, considerable sums, with a charge
not to tell from whence it came. He had not above £20.
LIFE OF TPIE REV, J. ANGIER. 545
a year from his hearers ; and tliough he had an estate of his
own, yet all things considered, it may seem next to a miracle
that he should so ahvmdantly lay out, and possess any thing,
when his layings in were so small : but God made good that
promise, " There is that scattereth and yet increaseth ; the
liberal soul shall be made fat, and he that wateretli shall be wa-
tered also himself," Prov. xi. 24, 25.
He was also very free in lending, and as free in forgiving and
passing by unkindnesses. One instance particularly was this :
when a neighbour (an indifferent husband for worldly matters)
liad borrowed money of him and broken his word, not paying it
in, many months after promise of payment ; instead of paying
the old debt, he comes to beg a new favour, to borrow more mo-
ney, which Mr. Angier lent him ,• and being asked why he
would lend money to a man so dishonest and unfaithful, replied,
that he did it to make a knave an honest man.
He was a man of much faith and courage in God's cause, and
withal, of much prudence and discretion : his courage was the
result of his faith, not so much of natural magnanimity.
When the Act of Uniformity took place, and ministers gene-
rally concluded to give over, he kept his resolution to go on in
his work, yet not censuring them that desisted, for he plainly
saw that all ministers were not under the same circumstances :
he continued in his public station without any considerable in-
terruption, so that a discriminating Providence made little Den-
ton a Goshen, and kept their fleece wet when others were dry in
most places ; it was a little sanctuary to many. It is true,
warrants were now and then issued out, to apprehend Mr. An-
gier, but the worst men had no heart to meddle with him :
sometimes they seai'ched, and professed they would not see him
for a hundred pounds. Some of the bishops of Chester would
inquire of his son, how doth the good old man Mr. Angier ?
Most of the Justices had a great respect for him : some were
nearly related to his wife, her eldest brother was Mr. Moseley
of Ancoats, whose mother and another sister did sojourn many
years with Mr. Angier. He thought also that his confinement
at home, travelling and preaching little or not at all abroad, was
a furtherance of his liberty : they said he is an old man and
cannot live long, let him alone while he lives.
He was exceedingly exact and punctual in all that he did. If
in worldly matters, bargains, writings, bonds, sealings, even in
the smallest concerns wherein there was any danger of litigious
suits or controversies, though it was between nearest relations,
he caused things to be firmly done and safely kept, which in
after times proved of great use ; for he said, it doth no hurt to
VOL. L 2 N
54*6 IJIE OF THE REV. J. AKGlEll.
]iave tilings done surely, and it may do good ; for nobody
knows into whose hands such things may fall, for men are mor-
tal. He carefully laid up acquittances, receipts, or any agree-
ments in writing, which have put things into readiness since his
death. He was also exact in his apparel, ever neat, though
never splendid ; handsome, not gaudy ; if he saw any facing or
finery in others'' apparel, he would say, I keep my satin in my
]:)ocket : he used to wear a Master of Arts' gown both Lord's
days and week days, at home : he loved to see persons neat, and
would say, one may be cleanly in rags : he shamed some out of
their slovenliness with friendly rebukes.
He was given to hospitality, a bishop indeed, a Gains, who
freely entertained God's servants, ministers and Christians, so
that he seemed to be host to the church : it is incredible to re-
late what variety of strangers and friends came weekly, almost
daily to his house, and were handsomely treated, though not
with varieties, yet with sufficiency : he had a standing table of
wholesome fresh meat, noon and night. Upon Lord's days, his
table always was well furnished with guests, (besides numbers
that had broth, &:c.) so that Mrs. Hyde of Norbury, a religious
gentlewoman and a dear friend of his, would say to him, Mr.
Angier, I am ready to think God works miracles at your table,
in multiplying your provisions ; for, said she, if I should set
half as many people to more provision than you have, they
would consume it all, but there is store taken off from your ta-
ble : and himself hath oft said, that there is a blessing attend-
eth house-keeping, as if the supplies thereof were unaccountable.
A worthy minister heard him once say, that he knew by expe-
rience, that little or much, it was all one, he had as much in
his pocket, when he had not half so much means as he had
then : as " riches increase, so they increase that eat."
His government and order of his family were admirable and
imitable, I may truly say, unparalleled. His family was as a
well disciplined army, Avhere all know their proper stations, and
carefully attend their post ; or as a well conducted academy, or
an organized church ; it was usually numerous and regular.
For a considerable season, he had several young scholars tabled
with him, whc> were sent to him for education under his in-
spection, and God blessed his example, instructions, and pray-
ers for the good of some yet living. Some that were capable,
, he put upon preaching one part of the day ; several assistants
he had successively, and gave them most of the encouragement
they had. When he Avas grown into years, and not able to
preach twice a-day, his brother's son was with him eleven years
before his death; and was ft great comfort to him.
LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIER. 547
Lortrs clay was thus spent : After private devotions in tlicir
closets, in the family, near eight o'clock a chapter was read, a
psalm sung, then he went to prayer ; and about nine o'clock
they went to the chapel, which was but a few steps from his
door, according to his wish and usual saying, " The priests
went about the temple ;" and at noon, immediately after dinner,
one repeated the forenoon sermon in his house, at the same time
another was repeating in the chapel to many people that stayed
there, singing psalms both before and after ; this continued till
public ordinances began ; and at their return home shortly
after, Mr. Angier sung a psalm and went to prayer ; then to
supper, and a little season after supper, a psalm, and one re-
peated the afternoon sermon, and another psalm being sung, all
was finished with a short prayer, and so the family were dis-
missed to their own apartments. For the rest of the week, ser-
vants so ordered their affairs as to be present at family prayer.
On Monday night, the forenoon sermon of the preceding Lord's
day, and on Saturday night, the afternoon sermon was repeated
ordinarily in the ftimily ; on Friday night, they said their cate-
chism, some in the shorter, others in the larger catechism
drawn up by the Westminster Assembly, some also repeated
the proofs mcmoriter. He gave order that they should despatch
their worldly concerns the last day of the Aveek, that they
might prepare for the Lord's day approaching, which they did,
and were outwardly conformable, for he would suffer no disor-
ders in his family, yea, most of his family proved truly gra-
cious ; they were ordinarily kind and affectionate to one ano-
ther, and lived many years in great peaCt, unity, and order; the
whole number was often sixteen, generally about fourteen, sel-
dom under twelve, though he had but one daughter with him
for several years before he died. His carriage was sweet and
obliging to all, even to the meanest in the family, and he be-
haved himself with such a dignified, yet amiable deportment,
that many have been ready to speak of him and of his family
concerns in the words of the Queen of Sheba, accounting theni
" happy that conversed with such a holy man of God," and
though they had heard of his ways, yet the one half was not
told them.*
Mr. Angier had many worthy friends, of good rank, and
great piety, who bore a very high respect for him ; and as
l^avid chose such as " feared God for his companions," so did
this holy man take his delight in the saints, as " most excellent
upon earth." Holy Mr. Henry Ashhurst sometimes visited
him at his house, and was visited by him ; Mr. Crew, of Utkin-
* 1 Kings X. 4_8,
2 N S
S48 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
ton in Cheshire, was his dear and intimate friend, and had an
entire love for him, as the writer hereof can testify ; for being
at his house at Utkinton, and Mr. Crew shewing him and his
wife some handsome pictures, hanging in a chamber, (in which
he much delighted,) amongst the rest shewed him the picture of
Dr. Wilkins, "who," said he, "is to be our bishop of Cheshire;''
but added, " Mr. Angier is my bishop,"" and I have heard that
Mr. Crew oft solicited Mr. Angier to sit while his picture was
drawn, and he would be at the charge of it, but he put it off,
saying, " a minister's picture should be in the hearts and lives
of his people ;" so far was he from pride, or vain-glory, that he
never had his picture drawn, though doubtless it would have
been a lovely figure, if to the life, for he was an exceedingly
handsome personage, he was low in stature, and of a clear com-
plexion, red and white, of a cheerful countenance, and very
graceful, of a venerable aspect, and pleasant ; but he judged
the blessed fruits of a minister's labours were more eligible than
the most lively representation of his vanishing exterior engraven
in durable brass or marble.
His heart was much set upon the good of souls, and therein
God blessed him with abundant success ; and this was a con-
siderable part of his reward. He sometimes related old Mr.
Dod's interpretation of the labourers in the vineyard, Matt xx ;
" who,"" he said, " were ministers : some bargain with our Lord for
their penny, that is, preferment, good parsonages, rich livings,
high honours, and a splendid appearance in the world; God
gives them these things, they are at present well pleased with
them, and this is all that God designs for them, they have their
bargain, it was all they asked, and our bountiful benefactor is
not behindhand with them ; they have no reason to grumble at
his kindness to the other, who made no such bargain with him,
but thovight themselves obliged to him for work, and said,
' Lord, if thou wilt account me faithful, and put me into the
ministry, and own me Avith the success of my labours, I will
refer to thee the business of maintenance ; I hope thou wilt not
suffer me to want necessaries, and if thou dost, though I be
persecuted, imprisoned, impoverished, and be put to beg my
bread, yet if thou wilt glorify thyself thereby, and edify thy
church by my outward distresses, I have enough ;' such self-
denying ministers shall have present supplies, and a better
penny, good things in this life, and eternal happiness in the
other ; so the last shall he first in dignity, glory, and abun-
dant reward, for he gives them more than they asked ; and the
first shall he last, those mercenary spirits who undertook the
ministry as a trade to get a livelihood, must be put off with the
LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIER. 549
poor pittance of this world ;'' this exposition Mr. Angier men-
tioned as very interesting and significant, not however, deter-
mining whether it was the proper meaning of that scripture.
He much desired the propagation of rehgion, and for that
purpose the education of young men for the ministry ; he had
but one son and four grandsons, who were all trained up for
God's immediate service, some of them at his cost, and others
on his counsel, and he followed them all with his incessant
prayers, and thus indeed did his solicitous cares issue. And
indeed if he had been without cares, he would not have prayed,
as Melancthon * used to say ; and if he had not given vent to
his cares and fears by believing prayer, they would have over-
whelmed him. He was one of the seed of Jacob in pleading
the covenant, and in nothing more a true Jacobite than in
wrestling with God for covenant mercy for the posterity of the
faithful. Oh the tears, sighs, and groans of that man of God,
urging God with his promise under his own hand ; telling the
Lord, he would not let him alone, for himself had encouraged
his heart, by making and sealing that good covenant wherein
stands our chief comfort ; and that as God will make it good to
some, why not to the children of the covenant .'' How often
hath he told the Lord, even in our hearing, that he was resolv-
ed he would not let go that hold which God had given him ;
but would adhere to him, by faith and prayer, as long as he had
a day to live, and die in hopes that God would make his pro-
mise good to his seed, when he was dead and gone ?
His opinion was, that a young man intended for the ministry
should be placed for some time with some able minister, and
preach under his eye and ear, and that it was hazardous for be-
ginners to live in great men's houses. He was of excellent use
in giving advice to young scholars, in public and private. In
the times when the sectaries were at the height, at an ordina-
tion at Manchester he gave the exhortation : four were ordained,
and he said it rejoiced his soul to see in those discouraging
times so many desirous of the calling, b»t, said he, it may be it
is but as a husbandman with his harvest towards night, when
he sees a storm coming, he calls out all that can carry a sheaf
to come to his help, he musters all his force, for it may be
there is but a short time ; as coming in at the eleventh hour,
leaves but one hour for work. He advised them to beware of
two things : if, said he, as in the case of the prophet before Je-
roboam, sometimes the hand of authority be lifted up against
you, be not affrighted with it, that however may be dried up ;
but then the seducer may slay you ; consent not to him,
* i?i nil curarcm, nil orarem.
550 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
lie was wise and happy in his counsels, and usually, being a
man of much observation, he had exceedingly appropriate in-
stances to sanction his counsel, in this way : it is good for per-
sons to submit to the Lord's hand, and to let him choose the
rod for us. A woman in Manchester burying a daughter, for
two years never looked up, but repined, came often to the
grave to mourn over it, yet it was a child miserably infirm and
scrophulous ; afterwards God took away the use of her limbs,
and lying in torturing pain, she acknowledged that it was no-
thing to bury a child : she thus became sensible of her impa-
tience under her former affliction, and felt that now God had
dealt more severely with her. And upon this, Mr. Angier men-
tioned an aunt of his, who had great bodily weakness an'd pain,
and she desired that God would take that affliction away, and
lay on her what affliction he pleased except that ; the Lord did
take that away, and laid affliction of spirit upon her, which was
far more distressing, and she never recovered it while she lived.
So to produce a persuasion that our affliction is best for us, be
it ever so painful, he sometimes mentioned that Mr. Daniel
Rogers"' first wife was a very cross woman, and he bore a long
time with her silently ; at last he made his complaint to his
father, Mr. Richard Rogers, and he gave him this answer.
Any thing, Daniel, to bring thee to heaven.
He was very faithful in admonishing as he saw reason : when
an eminent minister said, he took such a thing ill or unkindly
from such a one, Mr. Angier gravely and smilingly answered,
Would I so little favour myself as to take unkindness from any
one ? which, said that good man, I thought of since to my great
advantage ; for this taking unkindness is accompanied with a
fretting within one's own breast, and so it is leaving the of-
fender and falling upon one's self
Mr. Angier was much afflicted with that sad war which
broke out between the Dutch and us, yet he comforted himself
with this consideration, that God did not give us over to be cor-
rected by Papists, but that Protestants are in the hands of Pro-
testants, though upon a distressing account, and he hoped that
the drops of the storm might begin with there formed chvux-hes,
but that its fury might be spent elsewhere.
It pleased the Lord to lay upon Mr. Angier many grievous
and piercing afflictions in his old age, according to his own
observation on John xxi. 18, concerning Peter, when our liOid
told him, " tliat when he vvas old, he sliould be carried whither
he would not." Mr. A. remarked that God often exerciseth his
choicest servants, who have been men of emiiient activity and
usefulness in his service, with great afflictions in the latter part
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIEll. 551
of life, such as bodily pain : so Asa, when old, was diseased in
his feet. * Melchior Adam tells us of Mr. George Major, that
he saw the funerals of six sons, whereof one, that is Leonard,
died by the biting of a mad dog ; several daughters also, and a
nephew died ; in all this and much more, saying, (Si bona ac-
cepimus, annon mala sustiueamus ?) Shall we receive good, and
not bear evil ? At last he died of painful diseases, having kept
his bed near three years, -f- Thus Mr. Angier instanced in
Mr. Rogers of Dedham, wIk) experienced great agony produced
by gravel : so had worthy Mr. Storer of Stockport, and Mr.
Johnson, minister of the same place ; old Mr. Bourn, Mr.
Herle, and, at that time when he mentioned it, good Mr. Har-
rison of Ashton, his neighbour. It may seem a riddle and an
unaccountable mystery in Providence, why God should think
fit to lay the heaviest load on the weakest horse ; old age is a
burden to itself. Mr. Angier assigned this reason, that thereby
God thinks it fit to wean his children from the world, prepare
them for heaven, and render it more desirable : besides God
will make his children perfect Christians, exercised every way
in suffering, that they may be entire, lacking nothing, according
to James i. 4.
In old age his afllictions were, 1. The death of his beloved,
amiable daughter Elizabeth, who though she was married and
lived with her husband in Yorkshire, yet being in a deep con-
sumption, he sent his own easy-going horse to fetch her home,
in hopes that a change of air might tend to her recovery ; but
there she grew worse, and languishing, died May 26, 1661, and
was laid by her own mother in Denton chapel-yard. Though hdl'
death went near his heart, yet being abundantly satisfied that
.she had got safe to heaven, he bore it with great composedness
and equanimity ; for indeed she was the mirror of her age for
accomplishments and piety : yet it could not but be an afiliction
to his spirit, since so hopeful a blossom of his family was so
quickly nipped in the flower of her age.
2. This also presaged more crosses. It was a great affliction
to him that things went so ill with the church of God, as to
public liberty, with which he sympathized though he enjoyed
his. But himself too must taste a few drops of that cup of
which many of his brethren had a large draught. On the Ox-
ford Act coming into operation, March 24, 1 665, by which the
ministers were banished five miles from the place where they had
formerly preached, it was judged expedient that he also should
for the present withdraw from his house ; on that act taking efl'ect,
he began to travel, and his son-in-law with him, amongst his
• 2 Chron. xvi. 12. t In Vit. Ger, Maj. page 470.
552 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
friends in Cheshire, and visited several persons of quality, lodg-
ing with them some weeks, being kindly treated and graciously
entertained, being also very useful, and leaving his good coun-
sels and blessing wherever he came ; notwithstanding during
that time he seemed to be out of his element, and longed to re-
turn home. He was compelled to return, for wearing his boots
daily, a gouty humour seized on his foot ; he then said, Come,
son, let us trust God, and go home : so he returned to his own
house, and continued there without further trouble.
3. He was very much afflicted with a disorder at his stomach,
Ti^hich sorely distressed him, and he could find no ease from it
by any means he could employ : he was advised to use tobacco,
but could never succeed.
4. His very dear wife's death about 2 years before his own, was
a grievous and bitter affliction to him, with whom he had lived 32
years to his abundant satisfaction every way : and indeed she was
an affectionate and desirable companion, very useful both in
spiritual and temporal things, drawing evenly in the same yoke.
She was of a truly christian temper : one thing I shall add of
^ler, noted to my hand, as a peculiar privilege and rare amongst
Christians, that God gave her early assurance of his love, and
she said also, not long before her death, he had never withdrawn
it from her all her time. This was very observable and far diffe-
rent from God's dealings with his former wife, of whom Mr.
Angicr said in some remarks left in writing on her life, that
though God moved her heart to seek him from eight years of
age, yet he never gave her settled assurance of his love while she
lived. Behold the sovereign dealings of God with his own
children ! he, however, is infinitely wise in these cases.
5. Eut the great affliction, the very quintessence of his affliction,
was the sin and miscarriage of some of his children : this, this
cut him to the very heart, and lay as a constant load continually
pressing on his spirit. His son, his only son, devoted to God,
not only in christian profession, but ministerial function, mis-
carrying under such education, with such aggravations ; this
v,cnt so near to him, that such words dropped from Mr. Angler's
lips, of bitter complaint to one related to him, as shewed his
exquisite sensations under some burdens of that nature : though
he had paid i?400. for his son in a few years, to the injury of
his own estate, yet he saw it did no good, and still that was all
nothing in comparison of the dishonour to God by his extrava-
gances. His friend said. Sir, God hath given you much grace,
and he is resolved to exercise it. Ah, said he, but it is hard,
very hard to bear : a strange word from such a man, but he
could bear any thing better than sin, and especially in so near
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER. 553
a relation ; as the angel of the Ephesian church, to whom it is
said, Rev. ii. 2, 3, " Thou canst not bear them which are evil,
yet hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name sake hast
laboured, and hast not fainted." Oh sin, sin in dear relations
against his dearest heavenly Father, cut him to the quick ; and
souls cast in the mould of feeling know what this means. But
God bore up this good man*'s heart, (as he did David's) with
hopes and confidence in the blessed covenant, that sure and
well ordered covenant. This he adhered to, this he pleaded
and depended upon living and dying ; still he spoke well of
God, and exercised himself in praising his name both in duties
and discourses, owning in all crosses the hand of God, to whom
he had devoted his all. These various experiences disposed
him to compassionate others, and qualified him to encourage and
counsel them ; for (as was said) he could speak a word in sea-
son to quiet and mollify others'* spirits under pressing bur-
dens ; he still said, hold up faith and patience, wait on God,
and fear not, for he will overrule all for the best, to promote his
own glory and your best good, the greatest spiritual advantage
of his own people.
His usual practice was, on the evening before a fast day, to
put his children and servants upon it, to direct them to set
themselves seriously about the work of preparation ; to search
out and confess their sins. He used such means as might, by
God''s help, prove effectual to reformation both of himself and
his family : and upon all such occasions of fasting or thanksgiv-
ing, it was his way to inquire concerning the fatherless and
widows, and such as were in necessity, that something might be
sent to them, for whom nothing was provided, as he often said.
Not long before he fell sick, he said to one who was with him,
that he slept very little at night, adding, when I lie waking in
my bed, I sometimes run over the course of my whole life ; and
if a penman were ready by me, I could relate many remarkable
passages of God's providence about myself His friend said.
Sir, you would do well to write them down as they come into
your thoughts : but he made no answer to that.
When money lent by him came in seasonably, though it was
his own, yet he admired and thankfully owned God's providence
in it, as if it had been a gift ; and said, it is all one, whether it
was a debt or a gift, if God only send it in a needful time ; the
paying of a debt is as great a mercy from God, as the sending
of a gift.
I must now hasten to the last scene of this holy man's life.
He longed to be with Christ, and our Lord had been long
ripening him for glory. He loved his Master's work, and his
554 LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIEK.
Master indulged him in his work : wlien others were taken
off, he was wonderfully maintained in his lot. He did not of
late years preach that day he administered the Lord's supper :
the last Supper day was Aug. 12, 1677, and the next Lord's
day after he preached one part of the day, Aug. 19, but when
he came into his house, he laid his hand upon his breast, and
said. Ah, this will not do, I must give over preaching ; which
yet cut him to the heart to anticipate. He was very weary that
night, as he usually was ; the next day but one after, he began
to have some aguish fits, and had six or seven of those fits ;
from that time he began to decline apace. When this his last sick-
ness commenced, he ordered his kinsman in the house to write
letters to Mr. Case, his brother-in-law Mr. Tuckney, his brother
Bezalecl, and others, to acquaint them with his circumstances,
hoping for and desiring their prayers. He daily expected his
own son's coming out of Lincolnshire, but he came not while
he was living. He ordered his son-in-law to be sent for ; a
messenger was despatched to him, but though he hasted away to-
wards him, yet he came not till this holy man of God had breathed
his last. A few hours before, on the same day, his approaching
dissolution came on apace, yet had he the free exercise of his
understanding to the last , and as he had been a man of prayer
all his days, so he died praying. The morning that he died,
he prayed sensibly ; the last words which were intelligible, were
his request for the king and council, but the particular words
those who were about him could not distinctly hear.
The last day of the week, Sept. 1, 1677, was the last day of
that worthy man's life; he died about eleven o'clock, and en-
tered into his rest near the Sabbath, a day of rest ; from hence-
forth to rest from all his weary labours, and to keep an eternal
sabbath with his dearest Lord. It was his own observation,
that God often takes home his ministers and people on or near
his holy day, to perfect their graces, and give them rest.
Thus fell that bright star, thus set that shining sun in the
firman ent of the church, or rather was hidden from our eyes,
to shine more gloriously in the upper region ; the wise (that is,
wise virgins, members of Christ's mystical body,) or, as the
word is, Dan. xii. 3, " Teachers of others shall shine as the
brightness of the firmanent, and they that turn many to righ-
teousness, as the stars for ever and ever." Thus this pillar is
taken down that bore up an incredible weight not discerned so
well then, as felt daily by sad experience since his removal from
under tlie fabric : thus is the plant of renown transferred into
a better soil. This ancient tree of God's own planting, which
had sheltered many with its shadowing foliage, and fed many
LIFE OF THE REV. J, ANGIER. 555
with its grateful fruit, is at last fallen by the stroke of death,
yet bears both ripe and plentiful fruit in the heavenly paradise
above. He that uttered words of life to others, is dead : he
that by the grace of God quickened others, is himself struck
dead. Dead, said I ? no, he is but asleep ; " the sting of
death"" was gone, the fear of death was vanished. He lived
a holy life — he died a happy death : he lived desired, and
died lamented ; he lived to a good old age. Himself would
sometimes say, that he had lived two years beyond the age of
man, for he died in the seventy-second year of his age, in the
same month wherein he was born : he died in his own house,
the house belonging to the chapel, to which he had been a great
benefactor : he died amongst his own people, over whom he
had been pastor forty-five years ; with whom he had been tra-
vailing, weeping, fasting, praying; among whom he has left
remarkable seals of his ministry. Some indeed are gone to
heaven before him, and some in other places had benefited by
his ministry, though but occasional ; one instance I had from
a very eminent divine, in or near the city of London, that he
being a young scholar newly come from Oxford, and being
occasionally at Mr. Case's house, when Mr. Angier was there,
Mr. A. went to prayer ; but God so reached and warmed the
young minister's heart by that prayer, that he has cause to
remember it while he has a day to live, and hopes he shall
never forget it ; it had even influence upon others related, who
from that time became as useful and successful instruments of
God's glory and the good of souls, as any I have heard of in
these later times.
The whole nation and church of God seem much clouded by
the obscuring of this bright star, but especially the congrega-
tion at Denton is sadly eclipsed; their valley of vision, at least,
is turned into a valley of division : oh, that it may not also
prove a valley of treading down, and desolation ! Ah, what
lamentation was there at his funeral ! amonjj the rest, an a^ed
Christian came from the grave into the house where the minis-
ters were sat after the funeral, with a trembling frame, weeping
eyes, and a doleful voice of sad complaints, saying : " Ah,
sirs, what must we do ! what must we do ! our loving pastor is
gone, our loving pastor is gone." And now that good man himself
is gone also, and many others ; thus as it is said, John iv. 36,
" He that sowed, and they that reaped are rejoicing together.""
That Lord's day when Mr. Angler's corpse lay in his house,
two ministers preached in his chapel two funeral sermons, the
one seeming to be a funeral sermon for the people, the other
had a reference to their minister. That which concerned the
556 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
jieople held out an ominous presage of the death of their gos-
pel privileges, and the sun-setting of their glorious day, sadly
predicted from Gen. vi. 3, " My spirit shall not always strive
with man :" and oh, what a dreadful verification of that text
hath providence made there ! that being the last sabbath that
an ejected minister enjoyed the liberty of ordinances in that
place. The other minister discoursed agreeably and suitably
on John xvii. 4, " I have glorified thee on earth, I have
finished the work thou gavest me to do."
That sermon was a lively comment on the good man"'s holy
life, and a fair copy set before his surviving people; the perfect
precepts in the scriptures, and lively pattern set before them for
their imitation, make it apparent that gospel rules are prac-
ticable, may be transcribed by some, and will be a sad testimony
against others : and though Mr. Angier'^s mouth be now closed
in the dust, and his voice shall no more be heard in his pulpit,
yet, O that Almighty God who lives for ever would awaken
carnal sinners by this astounding blow, and propagate religion
in that place ! O that by his blessed Spirit he would transfuse
the doctrines, principles, and practice of that good man into all
his hearers ! for they shall one day know, that " there hath
been a prophet among them."
The next day, being Sept. 3, 1677, the funeral solemnities
were mournfully observed, on which occasion, multitudes of
persons, gentlemen, ministers, relations, and christian friends,
besides his hearers and sad neighbours, attended the dismal
and sorrowful obsequies with agitated hearts and dejected coun-
tenances, lamenting not only the loss of such a worthy pastor
and friend, but their own minds suggested strong grovmds for
presaging fears concerning the consequences which might result
from that heavy blow. His corpse was decently interred in
Denton chapel, in the alley before the pulpit, near the body of
his last wife.
On his tombstone is the following inscription : —
Here lieth the Body
of
Mr. JOHN ANGIER,
the late most
pious and faithful Pastor,
of this
CONGREGATION,
who rested from all his Labours,
Sept. 1st, 1677,
in the
Year of his Age, 72.
Ministry, 49 ; at Uenton, 4G.
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER, 557
Mr. Angier had requested Mr. Robert Eaton (a learned,
pious minister who had married his kinswoman,) to preach the
funeral sermon, and had given him that text to insist upon, in
Acts XX. 32, " And now, brethren, I commend you to God,
and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and
to give you an inheritance among them which are sanctified.''''
It was an excellent, seasonable, and pathetic discourse, and
well worthy of being annexed to this Narrative, if the esteemed
Author had judged it fit : however, the solemnities of that day
will not soon be forgotten.
Thus the best must die ; Zech. i. 5, Your fathers^ where
are they f and the Prophets, do they live for ever ? The
holiest men cannot plead for an exemption, or expect Enocli"'s
privilege of a translation : only to the pious believer death"'s
sting is plvicked out, this swelling Jordan is driven back, the
passage [is rendered easy and safe to the heavenly pilgrim.
God brought this faithful servant, through a long and bois-
terous sea, to a safe harbour in a seasonable time, and if we
embark in the same vessel of the church, and have our Lord
Jesus with us, as our faithful and skilful pilot, though in storms
and tempests, he being as it were asleep, yet believing prayer
will awake him, and he will rebuke the winds and sea, and
there shall be a calm, and the ship shall presently be at land,
and the passengers shall be safe.
After having finished the Narrative of Mr. Angier''s Life,
there are yet two .things remaining, which shew something of
the breathings of his gracious soul, living and dying.
L There are some remarkable things collected out of his own
diary, under his own hand.
2. His dying sayings and admonitions to those about him in
his last sickness.
Both these indicate much of divine grace, and manifest the
holy exactness of his serious and christian disposition.
The first is a considerable paper, respecting his frame of
spirit in his younger days, and reviewed and revised in his ad-
vanced years ; it runs thus : I do now seriously resolve, be-
tween God and my own soul, to read his word diligently, morn-
ing and evening, before private prayer thereto adjoined, and do
design to be constant in respect of time to be allotted for the
purpose ; namely, in the morning before chapel time, if it may
be with convenience, or otherwise without delay when I return
558 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANCIEll.
from tlie chapel ; at night, between five and six of tlic clock, if
cxtraordinai-y occasions hinder me not, becaase then my spirits
being fresher than after supper, I shall be the fitter to do God
acceptable service. I do likewise resolve to be diligent in my
study every day, for the sjiace of six hours at least, no day to
be over-slipped v-ithout the full completion of them. I like-
wise promise faithfully to God and my own soul, to refrain as
from the common sins of the time, to wit, drunkenness, licenti-
ousness, or the like, so to strive against those sins I am by na-
ture most addicted to ; and for the prevention of the like faults,
to shun all the occasions thereunto leading, enticing, or provok-
ing ; as bad company, unchaste conversation, or sensual indul-
gence, the which that I may perform according to God's will
and pleasure, I renomice all dependance on my own abilities,
and fly to his infinite mercy, desiring his special help and assist-
ance, his Spirit to instruct me, his Spirit to direct me, his Spirit
to sanctify me, that I may be kept blameless, being without
spot till the day of his appearance. ]\ly desire hath been, is,
and shall be upon my bended knees for the furtherance of these
intentions, begun and kindled by his holy Spirit, which I hoj)e
will cherish them till they flame into a holy fire of heavenly
conversation, a life of virtue, the glory of grace.
Written with my own hand, April 6th, 1625.
JOHN ANGIER,
Perused with comfort, May 1st. 1655.
July 19th, 1657. I found a paper in my study, of May 9?
1626; a bill of physic, when I was in a fever at Cambridge,
about thirty-one years since, so long hath God lengthened out
my life.
My going to New England was very forward, Mr. Newman
earnestly invited me ; I received letters from Bristol, April 2,
1630, to say, that I was expected there to take shipping for
N. E. this April, and had much kindness offered me ; yet the
Lord over-ruled it.
Upon the coming on of troubles, I had comfort from Zeph.
ii. 3, " It may be, ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's
anger." Josiah's mercy was, not to see the evil ; Jeremiah's
mercy, to be secured in the midst of seeing it. My wife died
X)ec. 12 ; one night after her death, the children were in the
parlour praying together ; and hearing a noise, I went to the
door, and heard my son at prayer with his sister ; he acknow-
ledged to God that they had disregarded father and mother, con-
trary to God's command, and therefore God had taken away
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER. 559
their mother ; he desired God that they might not provoke him
by their sin to take away their father also ; whicli did mucli
affect me.
Upon a recovery from a sickness unexpectedly, I was much
affected with Isa. xxxiii. ult. and in prayer the Lord brought to
my mind Matt. viii. 9 ; affliction is God's servant, if he bid it
come, it comes ; if he bid it go, it goes.
At Bolton, I was sent for to visit a pious man who was ill at
Great Leaver, found him in a comfortable frame ; he told me
he received his first religious impressions by my ministry at
Denton, preaching on 1 Cor. v. 7, " Christ, our passover is
sacrificed for us,"" ten years ago. Blessed be God, who gave
me this encoiu-agement. He notes in the margin, " The fruits
of my labours manifested ten years after.""
Nov. 30, — 47. A day of thanksgiving was kept with some
friends for the recovery of a child that had been sick ; it should
seem, they were on a journey, and had small hopes of recovery;
the very same day they prayed, the child revived at night, and
gathered strength on the journey sensibly ; they were by the
sickness of the child detained against their own minds, and the
minds of the people ; but God had a special hand in it ; for he
sent the pestilence into the family where they were to sojourn,
and had they gone at the time proposed, they had gone into an
infected house, and had been shut up there.
June 18, — 71. God gave rest to our aged afflicted mother,
about three in the afternoon, it being Lord's day. It is observ-
able, that the day after God took away our mother, and our
supply from her failed, God sent me notice of some supply out
of my own estate, as he had formerly done, Phil. iv. 19-
Nov. 19, — 72. Died good bishop Wilkins, a great loss ;
he died comfortably, and rejoiced in his moderation whilst he
was bishop. His death was much lamented in the city of
Chester.
Aug. 22, — 73. Upon hearing that Mr. Case going from
home four or five days and returning, found himself robbed to
a great amount, he subjoins, Psal. Ixxiii. 26, " God a portion
for ever."
Oct. 28, — 75. Reviewing the circumstances of his wife's
death, he states Oct. 25, she said, that in the beginning of her
weakness, she was something troubled, because she was taken off
her employment, and could do nothing ; she was concerned
about the affairs of the family, and concerning me, that she
should leave me in such a condition. But now God had sub-
dued her will, and quieted her heart, she knew not what direc-
tion to give, but she had left all with God, and her lieart was
560 LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER.
tranquil, slie had no trouble at all. She told me one night,
that she thought God sent Hannah Angicr into the family to
teach her how to die. This was a grand-child of his that came
from London, weak, and reached Denton with much difficulty,
and soon died of a consumption.
About a year before Mr. Angier died, upon a day of thanks-
giving for God's great mercy to his kinsman in an easy journey^
his heart being much affected with providences of God, he took
occasion to leave upon record in his diary, these observable cir-
cumstances to heighten God's praises, and quicken his own and
others'' hearts in them.
Mercies on a Journey, 1673.
1. Direction in the right way ; want of this causeth wander-
ing, and sorrow, Psal. cvii. 7.
2. Preservation of man and beast, of life and health, from
falls and harm, from enemies, robbers, and murderers. Some
have died in the way, as Rachel, others fallen sick by the way,
as 1 Sam. xxx. 13. It is mercy when God enables a traveller
to endure heat and cold ; for a horse to die or be lame in the
way, is a great affliction ; so a daily supply of new strength is
mercy.
3. Comfort in the way, and weather, when both are good,
and company is suitable and agreeable.
4. Convenient places for rest, and good refreshment for noon
and night.
5. Seasonable provision of necessary food, and cheerful enter-
tainment.
6. Temporary ease from the burden of domestic affairs, cares
and labours; the mind and body, both are relieved, others take
the burden upon them for a time.
7. Variety of objects to delight the sense, fair buildings,
fruitful fields, pleasant meadows.
8. Change of air, pleasantness and healthfulness there, from
refreshing gales in the heat of the day.
9. The society of friends whom we visit, and the mutual
comfort that ariseth from meeting after a time of absence, and
from friendly and interesting conversation.
10. Opportunity of understanding more fully how God hath
answered our prayers for them : opportunity of spiritual assist-
ance, of doing and receiving good by social prayer, and con-
ference, by relating experience, and stirring up one another to
what is good.
Behold, what excellent use a gracious heart, and sanctified
fancy can make of those common affairs which many of us
LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIEH. 561
pass over without any particular attention. See what a notable
sense he had of God's goodness in every thing, to raise up dur-
able monuments of God's glory, with such pleasing inscri})tions
thereon, as may at once both glorify God, and edify men.
When he travelled himself (as he often did) to London,
Essex, &c. he was wont to write down providential occurrences
daily ; and upon his return, to collect the sum of them, and to
spread them before such neighbou.rs as united with him in
thanksgiving, partly to help them to special matter of praise,
but chiefly that God might lose no part of the glory which was
due to him.
A very reverend and worthy brother, who was intimately ac-
quainted with Mr. Angier, hath contributed some notices of his
own personal knowledge concerning Mr. Angier's excellency in
giving covmsel in difficult cases of conscience, wherein he had
occasion to consult him. The following case is given as a
specimen : —
In 1654, a worthy young minister, of excellent acquire-
ments and piety, tabled in a house near the place where he was
then minister, with a gentlewoman of serious piety, of good
birth and education, at full years of discretion, being thirty-
three years of age, having J?800. to her portion, and so in
her own hands that none could hinder her of it : these two, after
a long acquaintance with each other, desired to marry, on prin-
ciples of religion, wherein they agreed ; but there was a mother
in the case, of another temper, not religious ; she had married a
second husband and took no care at all of her daughter, but
rather shewed her inclination for her daughter's marrying a
rich man, though of little religion ; indeed the less religion,
they thought, the better it would please her ; so they doubted
much of obtaining her consent : the case pi-oposed was. Whe-
ther her consent must be necessarily obtained, or no marriage,
1. When only a mother, and slie married to another, who was
diminishing the children's estates, and that with the mother's
consent ? 2. Wlien the mother is before prejudiced against a
good man, and most of all against a minister ? 3. The daugh-
ter of such an age ? 4. Hath her estate at her ovm disposal ?
&c. This case was sent to three reverend men, and to Mr.
Angier ; his answer I shall transcribe : —
Deal' Sir,
It will not be troublesome to me but give me pleasure,
if by the help of God I may reacli forth any the least assistance
to you, or any friend of yours that desires to guide his w^ay
right. I do pity your friends, fearing it may be an hour of
VOL. I. 2 o
562 LIFE OF THE llEV, J. ANGIER.
temptation to them, and a cause of great affliction, especially
if their afl'ections be much engaged, whicli their living toge-
ther indicates ; my advice in this case is, that the gentleman
make use of some friend or friends to the mother, that have
influence with her, to gain her consent ; and if he have no
temporal estate equal tj) hers, or cannot increase it ; yet to
signify that he seeks the party more than the portion, and to
offer this evidence of it, to agree that the portion be laid out
for her use, and the use of her children, if she should have
issue. If friends cannot prevail, the daughter may do well
(and it is a very hopeful way,) humbly to desire her mother''s
consent in her own person : if by neither of these likely and
due means they can prevail, I desire they may be urged still
to pray, and wait upon the Lord of spirits, who knows his own
counsels, and can secretly incline all spirits to comply there-
with. I cannot advise them to marry without the mother"'s
consent obtained, unless she lias formerly set her daughter at
liberty, and delivered her into her own power. For, 1 . The
mother hath authority over the child as well as the father, an
authority of her own, a joint-authority with the father given of
God ; " Honour thy father and mother ;"" an authority founded
in nature ; and though the father bo dead, and the portion be
in the cliild's hands, according to the last will, and his autho-
rity be ceased; that takes not away the authority of the mo-
ther, which was included in tlie father's, but always distinct ;
and therefore some wills, in bequeathing a portion to be paid
at marriage, do make the reasonable consent of the mother a
just condition. 2. It may be, the mother hath just reason to
deny her consent ; amongst others, the want of temporal
means, (if that be wanting) which is a greater defect in minis-
ters'' circumstances tlian usually in others, because they having
large spiritual grace, and living at the height thereof, or be-
yond, their wives at their death fall so much lower than others
by how much they live higher ; the mother may say, she will
provide a match where piety and portion meet. 3. If the
mother should unreasonably deny her consent ; yet we must
not run into what we have had so much experience of in later
times, to right ourselves by force and violence, but seek a re-
medy in a regular way. 4. If the mother be carnal, and they
religious, they must be afraid to lay a stumbling-block before
her ; and though the scandal will not be so great, being to live
in another country ; yet it will be too great if to any, especially
if to a mother, whose soul's good the daughter is bound to
seek in a special manner, and to seek by all good means.*
* The matter of scandal seems to create most difficulty, whether, if provi-
dence dispose of the minister in another country, this may not be some relief
to that, is tjueried 'f
LIFE OF THE llEV. J. ANGIEE. 563
o. To marry witliout consent of tlie motlier at best is not a
clear case, but dark and doubtful, and will give an advantage
to temptation assailing tender consciences : in consequence of
which, if their expectations be crossed one in another, or God
send afflictions, their burden will be much increased ; because
this question will soon be moved. Whether they did well to
marry without or against consent ? 6. If children be left to
their ov/n liberty ; yet the duty they owe to their parents"
comfort, and the greater judgment and experience of their
parents, do justly challenge their humble desires of their coun-
sel, their serious deliberation thereupon, and great unwilling-
ness to match without their reasonable consent. Advise your
friends seriously to consider, whether they have not gone out
of God's way in engaging their affections mutually, before con-
sent sought ; if the Lord shall help them herein to repent, it
will be a foundation for after mercy ; the truly pious are apt to
miss it far on these occasions ; but grace v/ill not allow it when
God makes a discovery. Thus I have freely imparted my
thoughts to you in this case, beseeching God to clear the
paths of all his servants, especially his ministers, who are to
carry the light before the people, I rest.
Yours in all brotherly offices,
Jan. 22, 1654. JOHN ANGIER.
He received the opinion of others as well this, yet he was
mightily taken up with Mr. Angier''s counsel ; for he saith,
" Upon the receipt of your letter, and Mr. Angler's advice in
it, ' To pray, and wait upon the Lord of spirits, who could
sweetly incline all spirits to comply with his counsels ;' though
I had prayed daily for it, yet I was put on to a more earnest
begging of that mercy, in much more faith and hope, that the
Lord would so incline spirits."" And about a week after, he
received the news, that the gentlewoman had by an humble
letter to her mother on this account, succeeded so far, that
the mother yielded to leave her to her own disposal.
In a little time after, he was settled as a minister in London,
and married, but soon fell into a fever, and into the small-
pox, whereof he died ; and particular friends understood that
he was seized with great melancholy and trouble, which it was
thought hastened his death ; and it was judged it was occasioned
by excessive travelling that had given him a surfeit; but if
this matter of consent had been doubtful, what work would
it have made with him in such a condition ? According to
the prudent suggestion of the fifth reason of Mr. Angier's
answer.
2o2
5GJj LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIEK.
His counsel was asked in many important cases, and his advice
was kind, and usually safe, being grounded upon the word of
God, having the advantage of a holy heart, a clear head, and
long experience. A second instance may be subjoined. His
advice to a minister, who consulted him about removing to
another place, where there was more advantage in a pe-
cuniary light, and greater probability of doing good. His
answer by letter was in the negative, saying, " I bless God
that such temptations do drive you and your people to God,
the establisher of Zion. It was an expression of Dr. Tuckney's
to me, ' It is ill transplanting a tree that thrives in the soil."*
Think upon our Saviour's expression : ' When I sent you
without scrip or staff, lacked you any thing ? and they said
nothing.'' Be not solicitous about your means, or the certainty
of it ; but apply your soul to the work, and God's secret
will be upon your tabernacle." The minister fixed his staff
where he was, according to Mr. Angier's example and advice,
and never repented of it.
Dying Sayings and Admonitions.
I hasten to the last scene of his life, and the gracious
words that proceeded from him ; for as he lived, so he died ;
his discourses were holy and heavenly, ministering grace to the
hearers ; " His movith spoke wisdom, his tongue talked of
judgment; for the law of his God was in his heart.'"* The
nearer approaches he made to heaven, still the more he breathed
of heaven ; and though many things, most of what he then
spoke escaped the memory of spectators or bystanders, yet the
following gleanings have been committed to writing.
On Thursday, August 16, 1677; being in a shaking fit, he
was more free in discourse than ordinarily he had been, and
said, " I find myself weak and feeble, and now think as much
on my dear wife, as at the very first ; but God employed means
to wean me by her long affliction."''' To a mother, he said, " Be
not sharp or rash with your children, lest their affections be
alienated ; when they commit a fault, stay a while till your
anger be over, and then counsel and admonish them, maintain
affection in them, as well as your authoi-ity over them.""
" If it please God, I should be glad to live to see the good of
the church, and of my children ; if not I shall die in the belief,
that Godwin remember them when I am gone; it may be, then
they will bethink themselves, when they have not me to depend
upon. God can soon alter their temper if he please.''''
To a young woman that lived in his family, he said, " As
* Psalm xxxvii. 30, 31.
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIEll. 565
you have lived here many years, and by God's help have been
of some use, I am glad you are going into so good a family,
who are children of the covenant ; for ' the mercy of the Lord
is upon thousands of them that fear him ;' and though you may
meet with afflictions, yet I hope God will do you good, and
help you to bear them."" This was a true prediction, for God
laid a heavy hand of affliction upon her husband, and then took
him away by death, under some extraordinary and aggravating
circumstances, known to the neighbourhood ; yet, God sup-
ported her very graciously.
Concerning himself, he said, " God hath made my condition
comfortable in the world : I have lived comfortably, and have
kept that which my father left me ; he left me a good portion,
thinking, it may be, that I should never be likely to get much
in the world. I have left it, or what is equivalent, to my chil-
dren, and if they make it away, the will of the Lord be done.
This is my comfort, I have left no means unused, that I thought
might be for their good ; and it may be, God may bring them
into straits, when I am gone ; and when he hath brought them
into the wilderness, speak to their hearts."
" My good child Betty ! God took away poor Betty ! But
why should I call her poor "^ she is rich, being with her best
friend ; I have had much grief for the loss of my dear wife, she
was dear to me, but her happiness I covild never yet envy.""
" God hath in some measure given me an humble heart, and
hath helped me to conduct myself humbly in my place, to children
and to servants ; let God have the glory, in whom alone I have
comfort."
One said to him, " Sir, what do you apprehend of yourself .''""
he said, " I know not, but I have lived almost two years above
the age of man ; and if God have any further work for me to
do, he will recover me ; and if not, why should I desire to live 't
I have taken great pains all my life, and never desired to live
an idle life, or a life of pleasure, ' But for me to be with Christ
is far better ; henceforth is laid vip for me a crown of righteous-
ness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge will give me."
His next fit was on Saturday, Aug. 25. Being very restless,
one asked him, where his pain lay ? he said, " no great pain,
but heat is pain enough ; he asked, what time of the day it was .^
they said ten o'clock ; he said, the day goes slowly on, when
one is ill ; but when well, we think time goes too fast."
At another time he said, " God hath set back the time, as in
Hezekiah's days ; but, said he, if I could go to chapel to-
morrow, I should think all well ; however, I have no hope of
that, but if God hath a favour to me, he will bring mc back,
566 LIFE OF THE REV. J. AXGIER.
and sliev/ me both the ark, and his holy habitation ; if not let
him do what seemcth him good.""
His daughter coming into the room, he said, " Oh that I
could see my children walking in God's ways and fear ! if I
could see my son, his wife and children, minding the best things,
and walking with God, I could die with comfort. I very much
desire that I could live to see it ; I have prayed, and long waited
for God's salvation. 'And thou, Solomon my son, know thou
the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart, and
with a willing mind, for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and un-
derstandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts ; if thou seek
him, he will be found of thee ; but if thou forsake him, he
will cast tliec off for ever,*" "" 1 Chron. xxviii. 9-
Aug. 27. Early in the morning, after a restless night, and
many weary tossings, being vinable to lie still, he said, " my
strength is spent, and added, I may say as Hezekiah, I am op-
pressed, Lord, undertake for me," Isa. xxxviii. 14.
To his cousin, he said, " we must not decline God's service
for difficulty."
On Tuesday, Mr. Constantine, a worthy minister, coming to
visit him, he desired him to pray with him ; and being asked,
whether it was not fitter for him to pray for him in another
room, because the physcians advised him to forbear company ;
he said, "no, but let him pray with me;" yet to prevent tedious-
ness, he told them this anecdote of IMr. liorrocks, which he
had often mentioned in his health, \Mien Mr. Horrocks was
sick, Mr. Angier came to visit him just as Mr. Pike, another
honest minister, was gone out from him ; Mr. Horrocks said,
Mr. Angier, you must pray with me ; but Mr. Pike has killed
me with a long prayer. When Mr. Constantine was gone, Mr.
Angier said, " in sickness v/e are willing to send for the physi-
cian of the body, and should not we send for the physician of the
soul ? ministers are the souFs physicians; we need their help."
That night he desired that James v. 13, to the end, might
be read ; and when it was read, said, " Physicians of the body
say, let not the minister pray with the sick ; but the apostle
saith, ' is any sick among you ? let him send for the elders of
the church.'"
When prayer was done, he said, " What a m.ercy it is ! my
understanding is as good as ever in all my life;" one said to him.
Sir, I think you understand every thing well, but your own
weakness ; he answered, " I am sensible of weakness and weari-
ness, and burnings ; but what a mercy is it, that though my
bones are vexed, my soul is not sore vexed also, as David's was !
I bless God, I am not afraid of death, yet what I may be I
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIER. 567
know not ; Satan may tempt me when his chain is lengthened."
One said, no doubt, you will not want peace ; he answered, " I
know not that ; though Satan could find no sin in our Saviour,
yet he may find matter enough in me ; and added, that he had
not in his health been altogether free from Satan's temptations,
he had met with his temptations both in a married and single
condition.
The same night, while one rubbed his feet, he said, " what
a wonderful mercy is it, that the great God should think upon,
and bestow his love upon such a poor worm as I am 'f This
he spoke weeping ; " then," said he, " I die, but God shall be
with you, saying, I cannot leave you a greater comfort than the
gracious presence of the great God :" he then added, " Blessed
and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection, on such,
the second death hath no power." His feet being cold and
sweating, one rubbed them ; he said, " my body is weak and
feeble, an old tree will soon wither, but it must be cherished,
and be tenderly cared for, as well as the soul ; for it is ' the
temple of the Holy Ghost/ and doth keep in it an immortal
soul, for a while."
Although the fetters of death were on him ; yet he said,
" blessed be the Lord, I feel no pain, but your cold hand ; I
would wait on God for a little sleep. Lord, I wait on thee, re-
member thy covenant, and thy word to thy servant, which I have
hoped for, and which hath been my support and strength in my
affliction ; through thy strength I have been doing thy will,
and endeavouring to keep thy commandments, although in
much weakness ; now Lord, remember, thy own servant, do
thy own work, make good thy own words ; I believe in thee, I
hope and wait for thee, hear the prayers of thy servant, come.
Lord Jesus." Then, said he, " I love Christ, and he loves
me, and there is no love lost between us ; I am his, and he is
mine, and my desire is towards him."
One being present with him from Manchester, he asked
about all his friends and acquaintance there, and desired to be
remembered to them, charging them to live in love and peace ;
he said, "entreat them to pray to God for me, and that will do
me more good than their presents ;" and being told that many
of the people of God were praying for him, he said, " who am
I, a poor creature, that God's people should be so concerned for
me ! I fear, lest they should offend in being too earnest with
God for my life, for who knows but the Lord may hear prayers,
and may bring mc back from the grave, as he is wont to do .''"
Afterward, he perceiving that others did suppose death near, he
desired the forty-eighth chapter of Genesis to be read, "where,"
568 I.IFE OF THE llEV. J. ANGIER.
he said, " old Jacob blessed his sons, and the forty-ninth, where,
after he had spoken to them by a spirit of prophecy, and com-
manded them, he gathered up his feet, and yielded up the
ghost, and was gathered unto his people."" And when they had
done reading, he spake to them one by one, and prayed for a
blessing for them ; kissing the children, he took leave of them,
and desired a psalm to be sung, and he said, sing it cheerfully.
Psalm xlv. It contains Christ's love to the church, and the
church's love to Christ.
Then he appointed his grandson to read a chapter, Jer. xxiii.
" It concerns,'"' saith he, " slothful shepherds : God"'s soul ab-
horred them, and he will curse their labours ; they shall not
profit the people ; they ai'e fit for no use ;"*"* adding, " God will
make a besom, and sweep all such out of his house ; no man,""
said he, " will keep a tenant who will not till his land, but let
his house and ground go to ruin : God will take special care of
his house."
Then he said, " John, take counsel at your best friends, they
will give you good advice, and set you a good example ; meddle
not witli wicked, light, vain persons ; remember the words of
your dying grandfather ;"'"' next he desired the 14th of John to
be read, concerning sending the Spirit.
Then he prayed earnestly for the church, that God would
hear the prayers of his people, and return to these nations, and
set at liberty his ministers and people. " Oh,"'"' said he, " that
God would magnify the riches of his grace, for his poor church,
for the sake of Christ ; we are indeed an unworthy people ; but thy
Son died to purchase the pardon of sin and reconciliation, and
is seated at thy right hand, pleading our cause : Father, hear
him for us, and be at peace with us. Remember what hath
Leen done and suffered for reformation, and the precious blood
of thy saints which hath been shed — this is the seed of the
church : remember the prayers of such as are now with thee,
and of such as are yet alive, in behalf of their seed and the seed
of thy church, and fetch in such as are going astray from thee,
and put a stop to them in their course of sin ; rebuke that pro-
fane spirit which is gone out into the nation ; revive the work
of reformation, of tenderness' of conscience, and brokenness of
heart, that sometimes thy people have had ; remove hardness of
heart, and that lukewarm spirit which hath seized upon us : Re-
turn, O Lord, to the many thousands of those that are seeking
thee in these nations : how long. Lord, wilt thou be angry with
thy people in these nations, and deny an answer to their prayers ?
O Lord, thy poor people have many years been pleading with
tliec for the king"'s majesty ; make him indeed a Josiah, a nursing
LIFE OF THE llEV. J. ANGIEIl. 569
father to thy church ; make him a terror to evil doers, and an
encouragement to them that do well. Father, thy people are
waiting on thee, when wilt thou return to thy poor, broken,
scattered flock ? Lord, humble them for sin which hath pro-
voked thee to this great heat of thy wrath ; thou hast mercy in
store, and waitest to be gracious, but we are not prepared for
mercy : but. Lord, make thy people fit ; thou hast bid us ' ask
what we will in thy Son's name, and thou wilt give it.'
Lord, increase our faith, and work for thy great name and
thy own glory ; advance thy Son's kingdom and bring down
the kingdom of Satan ; purify the church, but destroy it not.
Thou hast appeared for thy church many times when it hath
been very low, and thy people have sinned grievously against
thee, as we have done, and thereby brought themselves into
straits, yet thou hast heard their cries, and wrought for thy
name, that it should not be polluted. Zion lies in the dust, thy
church is sore broken ; many of thy servants are gathered to
thyself, they are not to be seen or heard any more in this
world ; their prayers are ceased that stood in the gap to turn
away thy wrath from us. Lord, revive conversion-work ; let not
the womb of thy church be barren and unfruitful ; is thy work
quite done ? O Lord, art thou resolved to leave this nation ?
hast thou not many souls yet to be brought in ? Dear Father,
hear thou the prayers of parents for their poor children ; do
not cast off the seed of thy church ; let them not be as unfruit-
ful branches that are fit for no use, but to burn. Lord, prevent
popery and idolatry ; let us not leave our children worse than
our parents left us ; let there be pure doctrine, worship, and
discipline in thy house according to thy mind ; continue the
privileges purchased with the blood of thy Son, for the use of
thy church, of which thy people stand in so much need, that
we and our posterity may praise thee, and future generations
may place their hope in God, and declare what thou hast done."
And for the congregation he said, " Thine they were, and
thou hast committed them to me, thy poor servant ; for these
forty-six years I have been labouring among them ; according to
the poor ability thou hast bestowed on me, I have endeavoured
to bring them over to thee ; now I am no more to be with them ;
Father, I commit them to thee again, as I have done many
a time ; take thou the charge of them, see to them, provide for
them ; double thy Spirit on thy servant ; bless his labours among
them ; let many souls be brought into thy kingdom of grace,
and made fit for the kingdom of glory ; let thy word abide with
them ; Lord, tarry with thy people here, send down thy Spirit
so freely, so plainly, so fully f these last words he often repeated.
570 LIFE OF THE llEV. J. ANGIEK.
These were the workings of his gracious heart, vented to-
wards God in heavenly ejaculations, and uttered in such broken
expressions. He was restless, and in several postures. One
said, " Sir, are you not sore pained ?'''' he said, " No, blessed
be God, I feel no pain, but the flesh will stir."
On Wednesday night, about two o'clock, Aug. 29, 1677, he
began to speak thus : " I commit myself into the hands of that
God, who gave me my being, who has been a gracious God, and
a kind Father to me, and into the hands of Jesus Christ my
Saviour, who loved me and gave himself for me, who bare the
burden of my sins, and sanctified me wholly in soul, body, and
spirit. And for my children who have been a great grief of
heart to me, who have been very sinful ; good Lord, pardon
their sins through the blood of Jesus. For my son that hath
greatly played the prodigal, hedge up his way with thorns, and
make a stone wall, bring him to such straits that he may begin,
to bethink himself, and say, ' In my father's house is bread
enough,' that at last he may return. For my children's chil-
dren, Lord, I commit them into thy hands, and all my dear
friends and their children. And for my people, whom I re-
ceived from thy hands, to take care of and instruct, to preach
thy word unto, and to pray for ; Lord, thou knowest that in
some measure of uprightness of heart I have done it, and in
some measure my life hath been according to my doctrine.
Lord, forgive the sins of my life, the sins of my ministry, and
the sins of my people. I desire to bless thee for what good thou
hast done by my ministry among them, and for those souls thou
hast already brought into heaven, I now. Lord, commit them
into thy hands, who art the chief Shepherd ; they are thy flock,
help them to live in love and peace : O that strifes and conten-
tions may cease ! And thou who hast kept an open door for
thy people in this place, when it hath been shut elsewhere for
a long space ; Lord, keep it open still, until thou shalt open
the rest. Oh remember thy ministers, take care of them. Pro-
vide for this congregation ; and if thou shalt incline the heart
of my kinsman to stay amongst them, (who hath been trained
up in my family these ten years, and they have known his man-
ner of life, his doctrine, and abilities for the ministry,) if thou
see it good, make way in the heart of thy servant H. and those
that have power in this place, to use their endeavours, that he
may continue here : this is my desire. Lord, remember thy
people in these nations. Papists are striving, and some of the
mere formalists care not what becomes of the Protestant interest.
If popery comes in like a flood, — Lord, put a stop to it, yea,
put an end to it. Stir up the heart of our king, and the king of
LIFE OF THE REV. J. ANGIEIl. 571
the Swedes against the harlot of Rome, that thinks she sits as
a queen, and is no widow. O stir up the ten kings against her."
Then he added a request for accommodation of a difference
between two persons whom he named, in his congregation, that he
might see it healed before he died : and for some others that
had made defection in practice, and were fallen off to looseness
and vain company-keeping, who were children of pious parents,
that at last God would bring them home by sound repentance.
Concluding, he begged that the Lord would put down ill houses
of iniquity, meaning alehouses.
He added that night — " Whilst we are at liome in the body,
we are absent from the Lord ; but when we are absent from the
body, then we shall be present with the I^ord, therefore we la-
bour. The just shall live by his faith.""
" Head the 20th of Acts, where Paul sent for the elders of
the chiurch of Ephesus, and gave them a charge, and took his
leave of them. Read 1 Thess. iv. 12. to the end;" adding,
*' It is a great privilege, ' that the dead in Christ shall rise
first, and be with him,' before they that are alive at his coming-
shall be changed."
Thus his holy soul mounting upwards by gradual ascents,
breathed out itself into the bosom of God, being mellowed and
ripened for glory. In aU these things we may notice, 1. His
public-spiritedness, still his heart was carried out for the church,
" no man like minded, who naturally cared for the spiritual
state of souls, and of Zion." 2. His hatred of sin, love to ho-
liness, righteousness, and peace, and earnest desires to promote
the interest of Christ, living and dying, at home and abroad.
3. His sweet serenity and composedness of spirit, looking tlie
grim sergeant death, the king of terrors, fvill in the face without
amazement, meeting him as his friend giving him possession of
his Father's house. 4. His endearing attachment to the word
of God, delighting to have it read and sounding in his ears,
and tipping his tongue with scripture language, because his
heart was thoroughly imbued with it. Thus this holy man
lived, and thus he died ; thus he believed, thus he preached
and professed his hopes of a life to come ; and thus he entered
into his rest, and possesseth a purchased and perfect inheritance.
Who woidd not thus live ? what atheist would not thus die ?
However, a carnal heart may possibly say as that wicked roister
who with his companion visited dying Ambrose, and hearing
his holy discourses and confident expectations, he turned him-
self to his swaggering associate, saying, " O that I might live
with thee, and die with Ambrose !" and thus covdd Balaam,
Numb, xxiii. 10, that diabolical wizard and avaricious conjurer,
572 LIFE OF THE llEV, J. ANGIER.
say, " Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last
end be like his," {HeJ). let my soul or my life be with the righ-
teous.) But they that would follow this blessed saint into the
upper region, must enter in at the right door by sound conver-
sion, and go forth, and go on in " the footsteps of the flock,""
travelling gradually in the paths of sanctity, till they advance to
the mount of God : and though it be a rare thing to follow those
worthies, (passibus asquis) with such steps and quick motion ;
yet sincerity in our setting out, diligence in pursuit, and perse-
verance in holding on to the end, may bring us to the goal and
crown of glory : and though we cannot reach the exploits and
honour of the three first of king David's worthies, yet may we
be faithful soldiers in this noble army of the " followers of the
Lamb,'"' at last the diadem of glory may be by the grace of God
set upon our triumphant heads : and if there be degrees of feli-
city, yet the least vessel shall be filled, and the humblest saint
shall be blessed with an exceeding and eternal weight of glory ;
for such and so great is that joy, that it cannot enter into the
most extensive and capacious minds as receivers, but they must
enter " into their Master's joy ;"" as if millions of vessels of dif-
ferent sizes were cast into the vast ocean, they would be com-
pletely filled: so every saint will say with David, Ps. xvii. 15,
" As for me I shall behold thy face in righteousness ; I shall
be satisfied when I awake with thy likeness."
Nor can it be difficult for a departing soul, set at liberty from
the prison of flesh, to soar aloft with speed into those celestial
regions, whatever may be the distance, especially when attendant
angels form its escort. How quickly and safely can that blessed
convoy conduct it into the presence-chamber of the glorious
King ? O how well did the gracious soul of Angier know the
way thither, where he had been daily visiting the great God by
faith and prayer ! He was not a stranger to the laws of that
country, nor unacquainted with the manner of the court above ;
but as he walked with his God, and was united to that heavenly
society, so doubtless some correspondence was maintained with
those blessed spirits above. Happy they that have faithfully
improved their gifts and graces whilst conversant below; re-
member their dying expressions, and imitate their amiable, lively
examples.
CLOSE OP MRS. ELLEN ANGIER'S LIFE.
Mrs. E. Angier, first wife of the Rev. John Angier, was born at
Wigan, and daughter of Mr. Winstanley. * At the early age
of eight years, she commenced her religious course, but she
never appears to have possessed an assurance, or to have enjoyed
a sense of divine favour. Her natural constitution seems to have
had a propensity to depression of spirits, and through the whole
of life this was her afliiction. Two years and more before her
death, God exercised her with great weakness of body ; so tliat
she was sometimes unable to walk, or lie down in bed, and was
in excessive pain.
March 23, 1641, God gave her more clearness and comfort
than she usually had ; but her disconsolateness returned. At
one time she said, " She would fain speak to the children, but
covild not, she was so straitened in her breast.'" Her husband asked
her if he should send for their son John ? She said, " No ;" but
bade him do what he thought best, he being at school at Man-
chester. She spoke to her daughter, and bade her " take God
for her parent, as she knew not how soon father and mother
might be gone." Speaking of John, she said, " That poor
child, the Lord redeem his soul and keep him from base com-
pany. It may be, my poor words may sometime impress him,
and my poor desires be realized." " She then," says Mr. An-
gier, " spake to me, desiring that I would take care to train
up the children in God's fear." She said to her friends that
were with her " Labour to be prepared to go through such dif-
ficulties. You may go on long in profession, and still meet
with hard things when you think the worst is past. Tliis I
would say to old and young, be more plain and honest one with
another."
" At night I went not to bed," continues Mr. A. " till after
twelve o''clock, being solicitovis for my wife, that God would
further manifest himself unto her. Before one o'clock they
called me up, she being very ill. She then said, ' Lord, into tliy
hands I commit my spirit, for thou hast redeemed me. Come,
Lord Jesus, come quickly. Make no tarrying. He doth not
yet come. Will he not make haste ?' I answered, ' yes, in his
own time."* Again she prayed that the Lord would come, and
he did not long delay. She desired to be put into another bed,
* See Page 524.
574 LIFE OF MRS. ELLEN ANGIER.
where, after a sliort but hard struggle witli death, she slept
calmly away, between three and four o''clock in the morning,
Dec. 14, 1(J42.
" God had taken off her heart from minding the children or
any thing else, and had much weaned my heart. Notwith-
standing her long weakness, her death was somewhat severe,
and she was sensible to the last, though she had much feared
the loss of her senses. Dec. 15, about two o'clock in the after-
noon, the body of my wife was committed to the grave. Mr.
Horrocks preached on Rom. vi. 23, ' The gift of God is etemal
life through Jesus Christ our Lord.' Dec. 18, God sent Mr.
Hollingworth to help me, who preached on Job xxxiv. 29,
' When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble ?'
The I^ord graciously assisted him. He said, ' One good look
from God would make things well with a kingdom or indivi-
dual.' "
A
BIOGRAPHICAL ACCOUNT
OF
MRS. ELIZABETH HEYWOOD,
First Wife of the Rev. O. Heywood ;
EXTRACTED FROM HIS MANUSCRIPTS.
She was the excellent daughter of an eminent minister, the
Rev. J. Angier. She was born, June 24, 1634, at Denton in
Lancashire, the place where her distinguished father was minis-
ter many years ; and was baptized, June 29, by Mr. Henry
Root, then preacher at Gorton, a neighbouring chapel. She
being brought up at home, partook of her parents' excellent dis-
positions. She was naturally very forward in learning any thing,
so that she could read some of the hardest chapters in the bible
when but four years of age. At six years of age, she was able
to write down passages of sermons she heard, in which, by con-
tinual use, in process of time she arrived at great perfection, so
that she could repeat a sermon very methodically and distinctly.
This evidenced not only her natural genius, but that " by rea-
sou of use, she had her senses exercised to discern both good
and evil." As for her acquaintance with scripture, I may say
of her as was said of Timothy : " That from a child she had
LIFE OF MllS. EIVTZAEETH HEYWOOD. 575
had known the holy scriptures ;" much of tliem slie had com-
mitted to memory. She took dehght in reading God^s word :
not a day passed over her head in which she read not several
chapters : morning and evening, she was getting a repast from
tliis richly supplied board.
She was about eight years of age when her own dear and
precious mother died, wliich, though it was a great loss to her,
the Lord was pleased in a short time (in a great measure) to
make up. by ])roviding a very tender mother, who was very af-
fectionate to her, and she also was very obedient to her.
She began while she was yet young, to seek the Ijord God of
her father, and by degrees received gracious influences and im-
pressions. I know not but I might say, she was sanctified
from the womb, or that the principles of holiness were instilled
into her heart with her mother's milk. This was an occasion of
sad doubts about her state, because she did not remember any
signal juncture of time when her transition from nature to grace
might be dated. She was often in fears, because she had not
felt those strong convictions and deep humiliations which others
could enumerate. But, for my own part, I think that those
who have been piously educated and have made no apparent
defection into gross sin, but have kept forward in a course of
secret duties from a principle of of conscience, and are afraid of
offending God in any thing, may conclude that their state is
safe, though they have not felt those convulsions in their souls
which others have had. This I have observed, that God usu-
ally comes by some affliction or conviction to take off" such a
person from his own righteousness, or leaves him to fall into
some reproachful sin, whereby he takes occasion to awaken con-
science, or leads him into some remS.rkable way of self-discovery,
and then creates lively springings of the Spirit of grace in the
heart. She constantly practised the duty of prayer. After
reading the scripture, she always went to prayer, and would
shut herself up in her room and be long alone.
From her very infancy, she was of so sweet and tender a
disposition, that she always delighted in peace, and wovdd
never endure anger or contention. In any matters of difference
that fell out on any occasion, she would often say, " Let us
yield rather than contend." She had a remarkable dexterity in
putting off", or putting the best construction on, v/hat might
tend to animosity.
She had a very tender affection for her poor brother and sis-
ter, and shed many tears for them ; especially for her brother,
whose extravagancies almost broke her heart, as if she had been
his mother. She loved him so dearly v/hile they were both
576 LIFE OF MRS. ELIZABETH HEYWOOD,
young, tliat she would have wished to liave borne his corrections
for him, and many times used her endeavours to do him good.
Her heart was much can-icd out after his souFs welfare, and
she trembled to inquire respecting him, lest she should hear
■what is evil. O what fears and jealousies had she for him !
What tears and prayers did she pour out for him, and what
letters of grave advice did she write unto him ! How did it
rejoice her heart to read his penitential letters from New Eng-
land, when there appeared any hope of his doing well !
April 18, 1656. She brought forth her first-born son, called
John, after her reverend father : I pray God he may tread in
his steps. The ensuing year, on the same day, she was de-
livered of another son, and named him Eliezer, saying, " The
God of my father was my help."
The Lord was pleased to train up the subject of this memoir
under the severe discipline of the rod. From her youth she
suffered by the frequent visits of bodily afflictions, so that when
she enjoyed the greatest health, physicians said, she was of the
weakest constitution they had ever observed. It pleased the
Lord to exercise her with great debility ; and finding it in-
creased the winter before her death, she took much time to set
her house and heart in order for her great change, that she
might be ready to take her flight into eternity. She bought no
clothes but for present use, because she said she was shortly to
take her leave of all. She provided necessaries for us, that we
might have nothing to buy for some time. Sometimes she
would speak concerning a second marriage, desiring me to
keep God's way as I had done before, and he would provide
well for me again. She mentioned not only some characters
but persons to me, who she apprehended would be suitable and
helpful to my children. Much serious counsel did she give
me, which I hope I shall remember while I live. Two things
she particularly urged on me : first, that I would be much in
secret prayer, and look chiefly to the frame of my heart therein ;
secondly, that I would never pray without mentioning the
church of God, "if it be but," said she, " in two or three words,
yet let Jerusalem come into your mind."
Thiu-sday, April 18, 1661, we took our journey for Lan-
cashire with our little sons, being sent for by our dear father to
Denton, to see if by change of air and other means her frail
constitution might be restored. We finished the journeyln two
days, and as we went along, she often bade farewell to York-
shire, and v/as persuaded she should never return, as indeed it
proved, though I hoped otherwise. It was remarkable that God
should so order this exchange, sending my dear mother to die
LIFE OF MRS. ELIZABETH HEYWOOD. 577
in my house, and sending my endeared wife to die in her fa-
ther's house where she was born. When she first arrived we
had some hopes of her recovery. She went to Manchester to
consult physicians ; but by fatigue or some otiier cause she was
in great danger, and seemed to be breathing her last most of
that night : yet it pleased the Lord to restore her for a season
and bring her back to Denton, and therein to answer her
request. After that, she apparently became weaker and took
little medicine, for the doctors durst not prescribe for her : they
said it was a consumption on her lungs.
On the Friday before she died, when she had been panting
and struggling for breath, seeing the children of the family
about her, she said, " Sirs, prepare for this time, for it will
come to you that are young, as well as to me. I want breath
to speak. O spend your breath well ! not in idle and vain
conversation, but to God's glory. Remember you must give
account of every idle word." When her father had gone to
prayer, being revived, she said, " I bless God I am better.
Blessed be God for his covenant which he hath made with me,
everlasting, ordered in all things and sure. This is all my
salvation, all my desire." Being asked if she found God gracious
to her, she answered, " Yes, in supporting and reviving me ;
but I do not find the Lord speaking so clearly to my soul, that
he is mine and I am his, as I desire ; but I would cleave to
him. It is lit we should wait for him. O come, come, Lord,
lift up the light of thy countenance." Addressing herself again
to the children, she said, " Bewai'e of pride : ' pride goes be-
fore destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.'' Labour
for humility, it is a grace that adorns all other graces. Labour
to serve God with a perfect heart and a willing mind ; blessed
are they that walk in the law of the Lord, blessed are they that
fear God : it brings not only a blessing to ourselves, but to
our children, sometimes to many generations. Labour to be
real Christians ; it is not to go to church, and hear, and come
away, and no more : but if you would be Christians indeed,
you must hide the word in your heart, meditate upon it, and
get the sweetness out of it. There are secret duties you must
also be careful of, as meditation, self-examination, and search-
ing the heart. Labour to watch over the heart, pray for grace,
and spend time well." Then turning her speech to her father
and husband, she said, " You that are older, keep close to God
and his truths. Do not forsake him, and he will not forsake
you. Do not fear men, but choose the greatest affliction before
the least sin : if you should be put to the hardest trial, and
if they should take away your lives, it will but send you
VOL. I. 2 V
578 LIFE OF MRS. ELIZABETH IIEYWOOD.
sooner to your reward, and that will be no injury to you. If
God do suffer those lordly-spirited men to afflict his church for
a time, I believe it will not be long : the church is dear to the
Lord, and he will not suffer it always to be trampled upon. O
sirs, let the church of God lie near your hearts, it lies near
God's heart : ' They shall prosper that love Zion :'' prefer Jeru-
salem before and above your chief joy."
That night she poured out her soul to God in a serious and
fervent prayer for her own soul, that God would shine upon her
and give her the sealings of his Spirit. O what heart-melting
expressions did she use for that purpose ! Then she prayed
for me, with reference to the place where God had placed me,
and the troubles I had met with, and begged earnestly that
God would continue me there. She prayed for her dear father
and the ministers of the gospel, for their preservation and suc-
cess in the Lord's work. Then for the family, that the Lord
•would reward them for their labour of love, and that he would
dwell among them : and then for the church of God, that the
Jews might be converted, and that the gospel might be preached
to the remainder of the Gentile nations.
On the Saturday, her father asked her, " How she felt her
spirit ?'''' She answered, " All her fears were removed and her
doubts satisfied, so that nothing much troubled her." Though
she found not such sensible comforts and transporting joys
as many attain, yet I think she felt more than she did or could
express ; for just as her breath stopped short, she endeavoured
to speak something which she could not utter, but was taken
up to her long desired rest, to feel what no eye can see nor
tongue articulate.
May 26, 16G!. Her blessed soul left her tender body about
two or three o'clock on Lord's day morning, and went to keep a
perpetual sabbath with her best husband. On the ensuing
Tuesday, she was decently interred near her beloved mother's
grave. Mr. John Harrison of Ashton, who preached our mar-
riage sermon, preached also her funeral sermon on that text of
which she had felt the sweetness and which she desired might
be taken, 1 Cor. xv. 57, " Thanks be to God, which giveth us
the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." Her death was
exceedingly lamented by all ; and as she was respected in her
life, so she was much honoured at her death, by the solemn at-
tendance of very many of tlie gentry and ministry, and great
multitudes of tlie common people.
A
Brief JHemoii
OF
MR. RICHARD HEY WOOD,
THE FATHER OP THE REV. OLIVER AND NATHANIEL HEYWOOD.
Mk. Richard Heywood was a descendant of Mr. John Hey-
wood, of Heywood Mill, near Bolton, a younger branch of the
Heywood family, of Heywood Hall, between Rochdale and
Bury. He is supposed to have been born at Bolton, about the
year 1596; but the Parish Register at Bolton was lost in the
civil war. Under the preaching of a pious minister at Cockey
chapel, religious impressions were made on Mr. Heywood's
mind when nineteen years of age, from which time he cast in his
lot among God's people, and engaged in social exercises of re-
ligion with them. " In my childhood,"'"' says his son Oliver, " I
can remember many days so employed, and, when the apparitor
was searching after them, a person was appointed in the entry
to deaden the voices of such as were praying in the parlour."'"'
He married Alice Critchlaw of Longworth, in Bolton parish,
in A. D. 1615, he being 19 years of age, and she 21. Mr.
Alex. Horrocks preached the nuptial sermon. God intending
to build them high, laid their foundation low, by taking from
them their first-born son John, when he was about a year old,
and afterwards bringing them into difficulties, in consequence
of Mr. H. becoming responsible for' another man's debt: but
God had mercy on them, disposed his father to be kind to
them, and raised them up many other friends, beyond expec-
tation. " At last," to adopt the words of his son's narrative,
" about the year when I was born, the Lord was pleased to ex-
tricate them out of troubles, and, my father being careful, began
to manufacture on his own account, which was then lucrative.""
Embarking in commercial speculations, God graciously blessed
him in matters of the world, so that he began to rise to
opulence, and things succeeded prosperously far beyond expec-
tation. God increased his property while his family was in-
creasing, so that he bought much land, gave portions to his
daughters, sunk coal-pits, built houses, and maintained two sons
in London and two at the University. God gave him property
for the education of his children, and especially for training up
his sons, Oliver and Nathaniel, for the service of the sanctuary,
2v2
580 LIFE OF MR. RICHARD HEYWOOD.
and wlien that object was accomplished, he stript him of pro-
perty again.
What follows is an abridgement of the manuscript narrative^
retaining the language and sentiments of the narrator.
His embarrassments and troubles in the world returned again
upon him in his old age. He changed his sphere of business,
and instead of dealing as a merchant in ftistians, he engaged in
the sale of woollen goods, in v/hicli he had not been conversant.
He often told me he knew how he bought and how he sold, and
he was confident there were large profits, and yet he also saw
his property went faster than it came ; he saw it, but could not
tell how to help it. As for himself, he was always exceedingly
economical and provident enough for his calling ; yet he was
unawares plunged into debt, which I confess is the strangest
thing imaginable, and hath been the wonder of many.
This good old man had various afflictions and difficulties to
encounter, besides what originated in his commercial specula-
tions ; one of which was very peculiar, and scarcely admits a
parallel. The case was this : 1647, or thereabouts, the Presby-
terian government Avas established in Lancashire, every con-
gregation had its eldership, several congregations had their
classis, and these maintained intercourse by a provincial as-
sembly for the whole county, which was usually held at Pres-
ton, to which appeals were made, and by which diiferences were
decided. At Bolton, where my father had joined in commu-
nion, there were two ministers, Mr. John Harpur, and Mr.
Richard Goodwin, with whom were associated twelve elders
chosen out of the parish. These sat with the ministers, carried
their votes into effect, inquired into the conversation of their
neighbours, assembled usually with the ministers when they ex-
amined communicants, and though the ministers only exa-
mined, yet the elders approved or disapproved. These together
made an order, that every communicant as often as he was to
partake of the Lord's supper should come to some of the ruling
elders on the Friday before, and request and receive a ticket,
which he was to deliver in to the elders immediately before his
partaking of that ordinance. This ticket was of lead w4th a
stamp upon it, and the design was, that they might know that
none intruded themselves without previous admission. The
elders went through the congregation and took the tickets from
the people, and they had to fetch them again by the next op-
portunity, which was every month. But this became the oc-
casion of great dissension in the congregation, for several con-
scientious Cliristians stumbled at it and refused to come for
LIFE X)F MH. IIICHAIID IIEYWOOD. 581
tickets, yet ventured to sit down, so that when the elders came
they had no tickets to give in ; whether these passed unnoticed
I am not certain. My father was one of these ticketless per-
sons, and because they judged him to be the ringleader of this
faction of schismatics, they singled him out and summoned him
to appear before the eldership. They required his reasons for
non-compliance, which he gave in against that practice, such as
the following : 1. Because there is neither precept nor example
in scripture for any such practice, therefore it is not of divine
institution but of human invention, and if allowed would mili-
tate against nonconformist principles, and re-establish popish
and prelatical ceremonies. 2. No other church in Lancashire,
London, or England, had invented or used this rite, though
they are as careful of order as this church ; and innovations
are dangerous. 3. Because it was cumbersome to the commu-
nicants, for the poor must leave their callings to attend the
elders, and perhaps not find them at home. 4. It was an uncer-
tain means to attain the end, as experience testified. 5. The
practice might degenerate to worse consequences and greater in-
conveniences than could be foreseen. 6. It already did, and
might hereafter, prove a snare to some persons, as if their get-
ting a ticket was a sufficient qualification. 7. Other and more
profitable means might be used to discriminate communicants,
and time might be better spent by ministers, elders, and people,
in endeavouring to prepare themselves and others for a due
participation of that sacred ordinance.
These, and such like reasons he exhibited in writing to the
presbytery at Bolton ; but they did not satisfy them, and what
they said did not satisfy him. They sent several times for him ;
he went, many disputes they had on this subject solely, for
they had nothing else to lay to his charge. At last they ad-
monished him, and when they saw him still resolved not to re-
voke his error, they suspended him from the Lord's supper for
contempt, as they construed it, because he could not in con-
science comply. They said he laughed them to scorn ; but he,
having naturally a smiling countenance, might possibly smile
in his conversation with them. His dear tender-spirited wife
would have had him yield to them for peace' sake, but he durst
not in point of conscience. Others, though they approved
what he did and encouraged him, did not much appear, but
held off out of policy or cowardice, so that he was left alone to
struggle with his opponents, which he did manfully.
He being in' this great strait, shut out from the communion
of God's people, knew not what to do. He first applied himself
to God, appealing to him for the righteousness of his cause.
LIFE OF :MR. IIICHARD HEYWOOD.
confessing his sin, begging pardon, getting his heart nearer to
God, and seeking counsel in this difficult case. He consulted
his christian friends, and, at last, resolved to make his appeal to
the class-presbytery of ministers and elders meeting at Bury.
There the matter was debated a considerable time, and though
the classis was dissatisfied with the eldership of liolton, yet
they, being loth to censure them, only desired they would pass it
by and admit him to the Lord's supper again. But they trifled
about it and did nothing, so he made his appeal from the class-
presbytery at Bury to the provincial assembly at Preston.
When the business had been stated and debated there, they
made an order that the congregational eldership at Bolton
should revoke the sentence of suspension publicly, and admit
him again into fellowship, exhorting both sides to mutual ac-
commodation; and, as I remember, about this time the occasion
of this contention was laid aside. When this order came to
the ministers and elders at Bolton, they somewhat demurred at
his restoration without submission. However, they were bound
to obey the order of the provincial assembly, and at length
framed a paper which was read in the church, in which they
freed R. H. from his suspension, but gave some hints therein
as though he had submitted, which he did not ; so it was not
all satisfactory, and I think he never joined with them in the
Ijord's supper afterwards, but was received at Cockey chapel, a
mile nearer him than Bolton, and at all other places about, and
maintained private communion in days of fasting and prayer, in
Bolton parish and elsewhere.
This is a faithful account of that unhappy difference. Be-
hold how great a flame a little spark may kindle ! I wrote
many papers for him in 1648, as replies to the eldership at
Bolton, and some appeals which I have now forgotten. This
controversy continued some years, occasioned many animosities
am.ongst good people, and opened the mouths of those who hated
religion. It divided the whole society into parties, and greatly
affected the heart of his good wife, who was all for peace and
submission: but he insisted upon his integrity, and often alleged
Job xxvii. 2 — 6. It was indeed a great affliction to his .spirit,
which he bore with imconquerable fortitude, and managed with
great wisdom and moderation. Few would have been found so
capable of defending christian liberty at the same rate. Whether
it was well done in them to impose, or in him to oppose, I leave;
he and they are gone to appear before the impartial Judge. It
is very rare but in such a controversy both sides may be wrong
in the mode of conducting tilings ; I hope God hath pardoned,
accepted, and saved tlie souls of the good.
LIFE OF MR. RlCKAllD HEYWOOD. 583
It were endless to relate all the troubles R. H. went through,
and the remarkable deliverances he had during his 14 years of
distress, from 1662 to 1676. But God put an end to his diffi-
culties several years before he died, so that he lived quietly and
comfortably with his second wife, Margaret Brereton. He was
a man of excellent natural genius, large capacity, tenacious
memory, with a speculating head, always contriving something.
It has been observed that as God prospered him exceedingly
in the middle of his days, in every thing; so towards the latter
part of his life God frustrated his designs, and disappointed
him in all that he undertook : doubtless it was to take his heart
off from the world, and to prepare him for heaven.
He was of a strong, vigorous, and healthful constitution, na-
turally very cheerful, and of an affable, sociable, and amiable
temper. About two years before he died, when he was 79
years of age, he took a journey to London as witness for one
Rich. Watts in a trial for about =£?500, Most of his relations
knew nothing of his journey till he sent a letter signifying
that he was well, and kindly entertained by his cousin Mr,
Nath. Hilton, whom he had employed as a factor, and who was
grown very rich.
He had not such strong religious affections as some Chris-
tians, but was sober, solid, and well fixed in the principles and
practices of religion ; very judicious in his answers to questions
at stated conferences, and in discourse with ministers and
christian friends. Many days of prayer I have known him keep
with God's people, yea, I remember a whole night in which he,
Dr. Bradshaw, and several excellent men, were engaged in
prayer, on account of King Charles demanding the five mem-
bers of the House of Commons. It was such a night as I was
never present at in all my life ; the case and work were extra-
ordinary. Bolton parish considered R. H. as a man of some
judgment, capacity, and interest, when in the year 1644, on the
death of Mr. Gregge vicar of Bolton, the parishioners sent him
into the low countries with a message to Mr. Robt. Park, for-
merly vicar of Bolton and then preacher to the English congre-
gation at Rotterdam, to solicit his return to them. He went
and succeeded. AVhen my father landed at Hull, he heard the
astonishing tidings of Prince Rupert''s taking Bolton, killing
man, woman, and child, as represented to him, and when he
came by Halshaw-moor, after the battle there, he beheld a most
lamentable spectacle of multitudes slain and plundered. When
in London, he furnished himself with the best books, the most
plain, practical, and experimental treatises in divinity, such as
584- LIFE OV MR. RICHARD HEYWOOD.
Calvin, Luther, Perkins, Preston, and Sibbs, in reading which
he took much pleasure. When Prince Rupert's forces took
Bolton and ravaged all the country, my sisters had the books
conveyed away into a coal-pit house, and laid under piles of
■wood ; but they found them, carried them away, and, it is said,
burnt them on Cockey-moor.
R. H. had enioyed a great measure of health most of his
days. He had often said he would visit his two sons, and con-
tinue a month with each ; but kept putting it off. His son
Nathaniel came over to him at Christmas, stayed a fortnight in
the neighbourhood, and lodged several nights with him ; he con-
versed familiarly with him, preached in his house on the Lord's
day, and remained longer with him than he had done above
twenty years, and was much affected with his company. About
this time, he got several ministers to spend the Lord's day in his
house, in preaching and prayer. The Lord's day before he died,
Mr. Aspinall preached ; he prayed and discoursed with him that
day and the Monday morning, and had great satisfaction from
him. Several months before his death he was much impressed
with a sense of God's great goodness to him, and in his prayers
was greatly drawn out in thankfulness to God. He appointed
several days of solemn thanksgiving, at which he desired the
help of christian friends and neighbours, and was much en-
larged on those days. A good man told me, that the last day
he was Avith him on that occasion, he praised God with so much
feeling and so many tears, as much affected his heart ^nd
otiiers that united with him.
I came to him, Feb. 22, 1677, and found my dear and ho-
noured father ill in bed. I was much agitated with fear, and
suspected, as it proved, that he was sick unto death. He had
been abroad on the Monday, and thought he had got some cold,
I visited him on the Thvn-sday. He had a bad cough, and
told me he was extremely weak, and that however God might
deal with him, he was never in such a condition before, and was
waiting God's pleasure. I asked him, how it was with him as
to the state of his soul "^ He cheerfully answered in these
words : " It is now threescore and two years since God shewed
me my woful condition by nature, and helped me to lay hold
on Clirist ; and tliough I have had many failings in the course
of my life, yet I hope I can say, I never took my leave of Jesus
Christ." These words so sensibly spoken, did greatly melt my
heart. He lamented that of late God had much withdrawn himself
from him in secret addresses. " In my family," said he, " and
with others, God doth in some measure assist me, but I find not
LIFE OF MR. RICHAllD HEYWOOD. 585
liis presence by myself as I desire ; and I have been guilty of
many sins, but I will cleave to my Lord Jesus and lie at his
feet, let him do with me as seemeth good.*"
I put him into God's hands by prayer, and he slept much,
yet in the morning I perceived his strength was much abated,
and that his memory failed him, repeating often the same
things. I told him I was obliffed to leave him. God did more
than ordinarily assist me in prayer, and m expounding part of
Job. xxxiii. My sisters, Esther and Alice, and several other
friends and relations were present. There was a solemn part-
ing and a flood of tears. Seldom hath my heart been in such
a frame, reflecting on his more than ordinary care of me and
prayers for me, when I could not or did not pray for myself.
With much difficulty I parted from him about two or three
o'clock in the afternoon, Feb. 23 ; lodged at Rochdale that
night, preached at home on Lord's day, at Warley on Tuesday,
at Idle on Wednesday, and, immediately after my return home
on Thursday night, a messenger came to acquaint me with his
death that morning, March 1, 1677. On Friday I went back
■with the messenger. They told me how he died, just as he had
foretold, for he had often said, he thought he should die with-
out much sickness or pain, as it proved. He slept quietly
most of the night before, and about break of day called for
something to wet his mouth, which while his wife was fetching,
he opened his lips twice as if yawning, and breathed his last,
without noise, groan, or the least struggle. On Saturday, his
funeral was solemnized at Bolton, according to the decent cus-
tom of the country. His son Nathaniel met us there from
Ormskirk. Mr. Tilsley, who kept his station at Dean church,
preached the funeral sermon in Bolton church, from 2 Tim. i.
12, " I know in whom," &c. These words, a beloved sister of
mine observed, our good father had frequently repeated, and
recommended them to him as the subject of his discourse. Mr.
Tilsley very cheerfully complied. The day after, being Lord's
day, I preached at Cockey chapel on Rev. x. 6, " There shall
be time no longer." O that it would please God to bring in
some soul of our relations to fill up this vacancy, to do our dear
Lord some acceptable service !
R. H. passed through a variety of circumstances and dispen-
sations with such equanimity of spirit as I have seldom known,
not being lifted up in prosperity beyond what was meet, nor too
much cast down in adversity. He bore all his troubles with an in-
vincible courage, for God wonderfully upheld him, and I doubt
not sanctified his afflictions for the bettering of his heart ; he
had a good report of all men and of the truth itself He lies
586 LIFE OF Mils. ALICE HEYWOOD.
buried in the middle of Bolton cliurchyard, with a handsome-
tombstone over him, and this inscription :
Here Ivetli tlie Body of
RICHARD HEYWOOD,
of Little Lever,
Who had followed the Lord G4 years, in Christian Profession and Practice,
through various Conditions.
At last fell asleep March 1, 1(;77, in the 81 Year of his Age.
There the weary be at rest.
OF THE
LIFE OF MRS. ALICE HEYWOOD,
OBSERVED AND COLLECTED
BY HER SON, O. HEYWOOD.
—ttitt—
Alice Heywood was born at Longworth, near Walmsley-
chapel, in Bolton parish, Lancashire, about the year 1594.
She was the only daughter of her father, and had four bro-
thers — William, Francis, Hugh, and Ralph Critchlaw. Most
of these having been brought to a saving knowledge of the
truth while she was young, she wondered at their zeal, and the
frequency of their attendance on religious duties, yet she be-
came more attached to them for their forwardness in the ways
of God, though she had little sense of such things as yet upon
her own heart. She has often told me, " she was as careless,
worldly, and froward as any till about nineteen years of age, at
which time it pleased God to take to himself her gracious mo-
ther, whom she tenderly loved, and for whose death she felt
excessive sorrow."'"' This heart-breaking providence was se-
conded by a heart-convincing ordinance and God"'s blessing.
At that time, there lived a pious young minister at the place,
Mr. Joshua Hill, whom the Lord used as an instrument to
open her blind eyes, to convince her of her dangerous state by
nature, and of the dreadful guilt attending tlie commission of
every actual sin ; so that her heart was overwhelmed under sad
apprehensions of divine wrath. She was brought next door
to despair, and continued two full years suffering God's terrore
LIFE OF MRS. ALICE HEYWOOD. 587
and refusing to be comforted, thinking her condition without
parallel, and that there was no hope of mercy for so vile a sin-
ner. That which lay so very heavy upon her heart was, that
she had not been careful to follow her dear departed mother's
example and instructions in spiritual things, though she had
been very observant to please her in other things. It aff'ected
her heart exceedingly, that her mother was gone to the grave
with tears for her, and had not seen the return of her prayers,
and the success of her endeavours for her conversion. There
were many concentring causes of her excessive grief, as, the
depravity of her nature, the vileness of her sins, her disho-
nouring of God, crucifying Christ, grieving the Spirit, and
ruining her soul, with many aggravating circumstances ; these
brought her soul to the gates of hell, and her body nigh to the
grave. One circumstance I have often heard her relate, that upon
that day in which she used to go to Bolton, and be most jocund
with her companions, she afterwards withdrew into a little out-
house near her father's, took her bible with her, and spent the
whole day in reading and praying and self-examining exercises.
There she took her fill of the bitterness of godly sorrow, and
uttered importunate cries for pardoning mercy ; her fasting and
solitariness being intended as a holy revenge for her former
mirth and vanity. Though she had not been addicted to gross
profaneness, yet youthful volatileness was her bitter affliction ;
for a wounded spirit hath a fruitful fancy to multiply and mag-
nify the smallest circumstances and render them intolerable.
When her brothers perceived her continuing too long, some
of them came to bring her home, telling her she must have
pity on her body, and that God will have mercy and not
sacrifice. She answered, " she cared not what became of her
body, so that her heart might be brought low enough on ac-
count of sin.'"*
Her soul-troubles were so great and her doubts so many,
that several experienced persons took great pains to comfort
her, but almost in vain. Mr. Hill, who was the means of her
being cast down, laboured much to raise her up, lest she should
be swallowed up with over-much sorrow. He had a tender
regard for her, and sometimes, in company, would have pointed
to her, and said, " this is one of my lambs,"" which expression
wrought wonderfully on her. Ah ! thought she, what am I,
that any of God's messengers should own such an unworthy
wretch, and that I should be called a lamb, who am more like
a wolf, and deserve not to come into Christ's fold among his
people ? She had many self-abasing and self-condemning
thoughts, and was as nothing in her own eyes. If she per-
588 LIFE OF MRS. ALICE IIEYWOOD.
ceived that any thought or spoke well of her, it rather hum-
bled her than lifted her up, because she thought she was not
so good as they took her to be, and that if they knew how
vile she was they would not praise her, for none had so bad a
heart as she supposed she was burdened with. Among her spi-
ritual helpers, her brothers contributed mvich, especially the
youngest, who was more endeared to her because of being
nearer her own age, but especially because of having expe-
rienced similar distress of mind.
Wlien God had thus betrothed my dear mother to himself
in righteousness, judgment, loving-kindness, and mercies,
he provided for her a suitable partner, my dear and honoured
father, of whose piety and sincerity she had undoubted evi-
dence. She has often said, " that was the principal object of
her cl)oice, and that her heart was more endeared to him as an
heir of the same grace of life, than for any other endowments.""
They were first contracted, and then married (as I remember
having heard them say) by good old Mr. Horrocks, that cele-
brated light and precious instrument of good, to whom she had
a strong attachment. No sooner was she engaged in that rela-
tion and in the world, but behold a Gad, a troop, yea, an army
of troubles assaulted her, the Lord seeing good to cast her
down first that he might raise her up ; as he had dealt with her
in spiritual, so in outward things. One of the first trials she
had was the death of her first-born son, the greatness of which
affliction, scripture, and experience may testify. Yet this was
but the beginning of troubles, for the Lord exercised them
with embarrassment from debt, occasioned by my father's sure-
tyship for others ;* at the same time there was a very grievous
famine in the country. She often pathetically related those
troubles and kept a due sense of them all her days, that her
soul might be humbled in her prosperity. In these straits, the
Lord raised them up many christian friends who were very tender
and affectionate, and were instrumental in giving them com-
fort and encouragement, amongst whom I have often heard
her mention her own father-in-law, (after whose name I was
called) as a special means of their support. He was indeed
eminent for piety, and as amiable for natural disposition. He
often spake affectionately to her, and acted the part of a faith-
ful friend in strengthening her hands in God, and helping her
as if she had been his only child, he told her that they should
be equal sharers in comforts and crosses, and that whilst he had
any thing she should not want. But at length the Lord removed
this stay also, taking him by death to himself, who was so great
* See tlie Life of Mr. Richard Heywood.
LIFE OF MRS. ALICE HEYWOOD. 589
a help to her ; yet about the same time, God graciously de-
livered them out of their pecuniary difficulties. These are but
left-hand blessings, yet they are to be observed and recorded to
the glory of God, and the encouragement of those that fear God.
O how good are these mercies with a blessing !
She was a woman of sorrows, which she bore with unshaken
fortitude, and incredible patience, cheerfulness, and self-denial,
for she had a speedy remedy for every malady — that was pray-
er. Oftentimes when her heart v/as as full of anxieties and
fears as it could be, and she ready to be swallowed up, she was
wont to go to the Lord, open her case, and state it to him in
secret prayer, and thereby found present relief and future suc-
cess. She was very conversant with the Lord alone, in humble
retirement she practised self-conference, meditation, and the re-
collecting of sermons she had heard, whereby she had obtained
a notable facility in remembering ; for though, from age, her
natural memory had decayed, yet slie had the spirit of remem-
brance, and would mention much of what she had heard many
years before. It was her constant course in the night when she
lay awake, to revolve them in her mind, and rivet them there,
so that in her I have often observed the truth of that maxim,
*' a good heart helps a bad memory."'"'
Her earnest desire, and constant care were, to wait at the
posts of wisdom. She had taken great pains to hear sermons.
She was, (as it were) the centre of intelligence for knowing the
time and place of week-day sermons. She thought it a great
affliction to miss any opportunity for the good of her soul. She
moved in religious duties and ordinances as in her proper
element, and hath often said, " she was never right but when
she was reading, hearing, praying, meditating, or conferring.''''
She loved to breathe in a religious air, and thought she could
never be weary of God''s service. There was scarcely a week
wherein she spent not one day or more in the communion of the
saints, especially among her own sex who kept up seasons of
conference and private fasts. She was conversant with saints,
not only about home, but in adjacent parishes, where she had
many intimate associates who dearly loved her. She might
truly say, she was a companion to all that feared God ; for she
had the right hand of fellowship in many churches, and her
praise was in the gospel far and near.
She was exceedingly pitiful and tender-hearted to the poor,
and used not only to deal out her bread to the hungry, but pour
out her soul for them. Many a time hath she given money,
clothes, and victuals to such as were in want, and often prevailed
with my father to employ poor persons in a time of scarcity,
590 LIFE OF MRS. ALICE HEYWOOD.
when others cast them off, though to his disadvantage. How
generally she was beloved by the poor, was witnessed by that
bitter lamentation which spread from house to house at the news
of her death. Besides mercy to their bodies she had great
compassion for their souls, and examined, instructed, and ad-
monished poor ignorant creatures. It was her usual practice to
help many poor children to learning, by buying them books,
sending them to school and paying masters for teaching, where-
by many a parent blessed God for help by their children's read-
ing, who were formerly deprived of that benefit.
She laid to heart very heavily the sins and sufferings of others.
The dishonour of God was the burden of her soul ; she beheld
transgressors and was grieved. In those cases wherein she hath
been concerned, she has been more grieved for the faults of pro-
fessors than her own loss, pitying such as had cozened her, and
begging the pardon of their sin. She put her shoulder under
to bear the burdens of the afflicted. O her sympathizing groans
and importunate prayers for those that were under desertions,
temptations, and discouragements ! She made every person's
condition her own, and put on such as were able to help those
who were suffering. She was the poor man's purveyor, and
begged relief of others when the case required. Tempted souls
she would bring to an acquaintance with ministers or able Chris-
tians, that they might be edified and satisfied.
She was wonderfully carried out in endeavouring the good of
the church. She was exceedingly desirous and sedulous to pro-
cure the settlement of pious ministers in adjacent places. The
very last day she was at Bolton, and the last work she did in
Lancashire, was actively exerting herself to bring a good man
to Cockey chapel, for which end she procured a meeting of
ministers and some of the people to consult about it, which was
the only means to accomplish that end ; for good designs often
prove ineffectual for want of mutual harmony, though indivi-
duals are forward enough if taken separately. This mutual con-
currence was her great object, either for reconciling differing
parties, or for accomplishing public undertakings. She was
very useful in healing breaches, and took much pains and great
delight in that work, often repeating, " Blessed are the peace-
makers."" She had so much interest in the affections of good
people, and did so evince that she minded not self, that there
were few but would have been prevailed on by her ; besides, she
used to speak with such plain, downright, homely rhetoric, and
scriptural reasons, that few I believe had power to deny her re-
quest. She was so much for peace, that she would roll away
every stone to effect it, and if it was any thing that concerned
LIFE or Mils. ALICE HEYWOOD. 591
herself, she would abate her right in the pursuit, and lose much
to purchase it.
The love she bore to her children, though natural was spiri-
tualized, but especially the regard she had for our souls, (which
is the soul of love,) was highly elevated. I may say, she tra-
vailed in birth again for us, till Christ was formed in us ; and
the latter was more severe than the former. O with what tears
and entreaties did she plead for us at the throne of grace !
What heart-breaking words of endeared affection hath she ex-
pressed for our souls ! What heart-awakening instructions hath
she constantly inculcated upon us ! She used to press upon
our consciences the undeniable truths of Christianity, such as :
our fall in Adam — the corruption of our nature — our subjection
to the curse — redemption by Christ — the necessity of regenera-
tion — the immortality and worth of the soul — the weighty con-
cerns of eternity, and other truths of similar importance, which
might at once inform our judgments, rouse ovu* affections,
awaken our consciences, and, through God's blessing, prevail
on our wills. I may say, I owe much to her as the instrument
under God, of that saving good I at first received ; and I hope
I shall never forget the instructions of a mother. She was con-
tinually putting us on reading the scriptures and good books,
and instructed us how to pray. It was her custom, when my
father was gone to London, to make all her children pray, be-
ginning at the youngest, exhorting us to say what we could be-
fore the Lord. We spent at least one evening in this manner
during his absence, which certainly was not in vain, if it only
encouraged and emboldened us for the future. Though she
was very indulgent to us, yet she was very sharp and severe
against sin, especially such as she saw we were most inclined to.
O how did she reprobate sinful ways, and endeavour to prevent
our running into them, or into any bad custom ! She would
never suffer us to use idle words, not even some that others,
(even good people) thought were not wrong, her conscience
being so tender that she durst not indulge either herself or us
in any thing she suspected to be sin. She often urged us to
learn, but principally that we should seek for grace : for though
she prized other things in their place, yet she often said, •' if
God would but give us grace, she cared not so much what else
we had."'
She loved true religion, and the power of godliness wherever
she saw it, and accounted sincere Christians the most excellent
of the earth, esteemed them her dearest friends, and made them
her choicest companions though ever so poor ; when she met
with a christian friend it was not easy to part them. She laid
592 LIFE OF MRS. ALICE HEYOOOD,
deeply to heart the death of a faithfvd minister or gracious
Christian, fearing it was a presage of some approaching evil.
It troubled her much to hear of the misconduct of the children
of pious parents, and she would pray earnestly for them, reckon-
ing that somebody perhaps would pray for her wandering chil-
dren, when she was dead and gone.
She was always engaged actively in the works of her general
or particular calling, and could not endure idleness. Her heart
was mounting heavenwards while her hands were busy in this
work, making some spiritual use of all passages of her life. I
have heard her often say, " she was never right except she could
get some good thing into her mind, whether lying in bed or
walking in the way, or engaged in employment."" She took
much pleasure in that scripture, John iv. 34, " My meat is to
do the will of him that sent me.'' She would often say, " we
must be like Christ or Mary, the first was always doing good,
the latter always receiving good."
She had a very low opinion of the world and its glory, pro-
fits, pleasures, and honours, and was much taken with a sermon
preached on 1 John ii. 17. She was often repeating instances
of the vanity and instability of the world, and drew good con-
clusions from thence to distrust it, to be weaned from it, and to
lay up better treasures in heaven, where moth cannot corrupt
nor thieves break in to steal. Her usual expressions were,
" O what is this world good for ! How little will these things
do for us at death ! What will it profit a man if he gain the
whole world, and lose his own soul ? Alas, what matter is it
what becomes of the world, so that we have an interest in
Christ !" She was weary of employments and enjoyments here
below, and said " She did her domestic work rather from the
sense of her duty than any delight therein, and she cared not
how little she had to do in the world."
At last this choice piece of God's twofold workmanship of
nature and grace was to be taken down ; her tottering taberna-
cle was to be levelled with the ground, and her precious soul
released that it might take its flight to eternal mansions. She
that had been dying daily found it no strange thing to surrender
her soul into the hands of him that gave it, and who had given
himself to redeem it. The sting of death was plucked out, and
this debt to nature became a sweet refreshing sleep. Solomon
saith of the labouring man, " that his sleep is sweet ;"" so weary
steps through this tedious wilderness made Canaan more de-
lightful. The exhausting of her spirits by fasting and prayer
rendered her dissolution more easy, so that it was not a violent
extrusion, but a composed resignation of her soul.
LIFE OF MRS. ALICE HEYWOOD. 593
She had been weakly a considerable time, yet her body was a
little recovered, and her strength recruited beyond expectation,
and hearing of a distemper that was upon me she was desirous
to come and see me. Before she came, (as she told a neigh-
bour of ours) she dreamed she must go into Yorkshire, and die
there : and, indeed, the Lord seemed to say to her, as he once
did to Aaron, that she must go up to mount Hor and be gathered
to her people. As soon as she cam.e hither, she complained she
was not well, and had violent pain in her head, though towards
the last she became very drowsy, having a lightness and dizzi-
ness in her head. About two clays before she died, we were at
dinner, and though she could not eat any thing with us, she
came and sat down with us, and began to discourse feelingly on
the things of God, which were as meat and drink to her, and
which might prove food to our souls. She gave us a distinct
account of her conversion and conversation, and of several ob-
servable passages in her life, which she accompanied with ex-
pressions of admiration of God's free grace, and what an indul-
gent God she had found the Lord to be all her days, and did
not question but we should find him to be the same to us if we
walked in his ways.
On Tuesday, which was the day before she died, she rode to
the chapel, and heard my father Angier preach at the baptism
of my son Eliezer, his text was 2 Pet. i. 15, " Moreover, I
will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have
these things always in remembrance." His excellent sermon
seemed to be, as it were, her funeral sermon, being a clear de-
scription of her life. It was her great care, not only to be help-
ful to the church of God while she was living, but to leave be-
hind her something that might beneHt it when she was gone, by
her laying hold on the covenant for herself and children, fur-
thering God's public worship, holy education of children, dedi-
cating them to the Lord, and pouring out many prayers both
for them and the church, by beating out an exemplary track for
posterity to walk in, helping others' memories, transcribing the
word and works of God for future generations, by frequently
discoursing and making suitable applications ; all which were
applicable to her, as they that knew her can abundantly testify.
This sermon and her life had the same aspect, and were coin-
cident. That night she slept but little, yet in the morning she
arose and would needs be going home towards Lancashire ; be-
fore which time she would not be persuaded to return. She
put on her riding clothes and prepared for her journey, but we
saw she was in no fit posture for travelling, and that she was
going apace to her long home. Her phlegm suddenly stopped,
VOL. I. 2 Q
594 LIFE OF THE llEV. J. IIEYWOOD.
lier stvengtli failed, her colour changed, and, as we thought, she
was near expiring. We called my father Angier hastily to her,
who prayed with her. He asked her, " if she understood ;"
slie answered, " yes, veiy well ;"" he told her, *' he must leave
her;" "I am sorry for that," she said; he replied, "I have
committed you into the hands of our Father, and must go, hav-
ing stayed here beyond my intentions."" Thus they parted,
with sweet expressions of mutual affection and submission to
God's will, and confident expectation of meeting in glory. She
continued, as it were, slumbering without any great pain, that
we could perceive, and, being carried up into the chamber, lay
quietly on the bed an hour or two, and at last breathed out her
precious soul into the hands of God, and took possession of that
glory which Christ went to prepare for her.
She died at my house in Northowram, April 22, 1657, about
one o'clock in the afternoon, aged sixty-three. She was interred
in Dr. Holdsworth's chapel, on the south side of Halifax
church, April 24th, in the same grave, in which Mr. Boys, a
celebrated minister, and some time lecturer at Halifax, was long
since buried ; on either side of whom were laid two excellent
men, who had been ministers at Colcy, Messrs. Hurst and Clay-
ton. Mr. Bentley preached her funeral sermon on Cant. ii. 16.
c in CIV
MR. JOHN HEYWOOD,
ELDEST SON OF THE
REV. OLIVER HEYWOOD.
Mr. John Heywood, eldest son of Oliver Heywood, was born
at Northowram, April 18th, 1656, and was called John, after
his maternal grandfather, the Rev. John Angier, of Denton.
He was early the subject of religious convictions, and encou-
raged his father to hope for his usefulness in the church of
God. Both he and his brother Eliezer received the rudiments
of their education in the neighbouring schools, and in May,
1672, were placed under the care and instruction of Mr. David
Noble, of Morley, at which time Mr. Heywood made the fol-
LIFE OF THE REV. J. HEYWOOD. 595
lowing remarks : " Though for tlie present I am deprived of
the pleasant society of my dear sons in this house, yet I freely
deny myself for their good, and hope and pray that my God will
furnish them with learning in their heads, and grace in their
liearts, for his work and service in after times. This was the
place in which I first received them of my God, and here I
resign them up again to him. Here they drew their first
breath, and here my soul hath breathed out many a prayer and
shed many a tear for their good. In this house their dear
grandmother, my esteemed mother, breathed her last a few
days after she had seen the younger born ; and from hence it
may be, they may bury their father. Lord, grant that they
may inherit their ancestors' blessings, prayers, and covenant, as
well as house and lands. Lord, they are devoted to thee ;
accept of them, speak to them, and meet with them when
from their father's house, that they may not bring guilt but
grace and learning home at their return." After they had
been at Morley, they were a short time with Mr. Henry Hick-
man, who was ejected from the University at Oxford, and after-
wards received pupils at his house near Stourbridge.
Mr. Heywood, perceiving, as he imagined, the beginning of
the work of grace in the hearts of his two sons, and finding that
their inclinations led them to prefer the work of the ministry,
he appointed a solemn private fast to be held at his house,
May 15th, 1673, at which time, in the presence of a few friends
assembled on the occasion, they expressed their desire to be
employed in the service of Christ, in the ministry of the gospel.
The next week they entered as students in divinity at Mr.
Frankland's academy, v/ho had opened a private seminary at
Rathmell, in Craven, and were among the earliest scholars
received by that eminent Nonconformist tutor. They con-
tinued with Mr. Frankland at Rathmell, and afterwards at Nat-
land, in Westmoreland, nearly three years, and then entered
the University at Edinburgh. On their return from Scotland,
April 18th, 1677, Mr. Heywood says : " Behold a Gad, a
troop, comes of preventing and favouring mercies, all matter
for praise. My sons were once in great danger, being at a
conventicle, they were let down by a sheet through a window
three stories high, and so escaped : " This was the Lord's do-
ing and marvellous in our eyes.*" May 18th, I had a letter
from their Regent in Scotland, informing me that their lives
were irreproachable v/hile there ; a good hearing and a frviit of
God's great kindness. At their Laureation, when the oath of
supremacy was enjoined to be taken by them, they, with their
companions fifty-eight in number, abandoned their degrees ra-
2q2
596 LIFE OF THE llEV. J. HEYWOOD.
thcr than submit to it, except they might put their own con-
struction upon it, which was not allowed. It was GocVs grace
that helped tliem to be sufferers betimes for conscience'' sake ;
this was extraordinary in youths naturally so eager for honour.
Since their return home I find them religiously inclined, which
is evinced by their sober conduct, their willingness to go to days
of fasting and prayer, the feelings they manifest in the duty,
their serious conversation, and their love of good company."
July 15th, 1677, Mr. John Hey wood was admitted a mem-
ber of tlie church at Northowram, of which his father was the
pastor. He remained at home from the time of his return from
Scotland, preaching occasionally as opportimities offered. He
is said to have taught at a school in Kirkheaton, but it must
have been during only a fev*- months. He went to reside at
John Hey's in Gisbm-n parish, Sept. 20, 1678.. to preach to a
few persons who assembled for worship in that retii'ed neigh-
bourhood as circumstances permitted ; " to a people,'"' says Mr.
O. Heywood, " to whom I have a special relation.*" How long
he continued in this situation is not certain, but probably only
a short time. Afterwards he went to be chaplain to Lady Wil-
braham in Cheshire, but on account of her death which took
place a short time after his entrance on his office, he returned
to his father''s house. Here he follo'ved his studies under his
father*'s direction, preaching in various places as he had oppor-
tunity, to the great satisfaction of many of God''s people.
Having expressed an earnest desire to be set apart to the
work of the ministry in a regular manner by ordination, it was
agreed that several ministers should meet for this purpose at
John Hey''s, being the place at which he had most frequently
preached. ]\Ir. O. Heywood has left the following account of
the service: " Aug. ^IS, 1681, we went to John Hey''s in Cra-
ven. Mr. Jessot began with prayer and continued about an
liovu'. Then we appointed my son John to preach, who gave
us a handsome, well compacted discovirse on Matt. v. 14, " Ye
are the light of the world." He prayed sensibly, and having
gone through that service, IMr. Frankland examined him ; first
demanding his testimonials. Pie produced five. One from our
christian friends at Coley, (of which church he is a member)
subscribed by nine or ten hands. Another from Morley, by as
many. Another from Warley, by as many. A fourth from
Lidget, sent by James Armitage. Another from Nath. Bot-
tomley : in all which places he had conversed and frequently
preached, testifying his ministerial abilities, soundness of faith,
piovis conversation, and therewith signifying their desires that he
might be set apart to the work of the ministry ; which Mr.
LIFE OF THE REV. J. HEYWOOD. 597
Frankland and all the rest judged to be full and satisfactory. I
asked J. Hey and R. Mitchell what they had to object, and they
told me they were well satisfied. It was thought fit that the tes-
timonials should be left in J. Hey^s hands. Mr. F. then proceed-
ed to examine him in logic, philosophy, history, chronology, &c.
and then ordered him to read his thesis in Latin on this question :
An Episcopus sit qui Presbiter ? (Whether a bishop be the same
as a presbyter ?) He read a long discourse affirming it. Messrs.
Dawson and Jessot framed arguments against it. This work con-
tinued till five o'clock, then we refreshed ourselves and parted.
We appointed to begin again at eight o'clock next morning, when
we met to consummate and solemnize the work. Mr. Dawson
began with prayer for about sn hour, and God did graciously
help him to bewail his own and ministers' sins, which had thrust
us out of public work that day nineteen years ago, and which
have kept us out so long. God wonderfully dr-ew out his heart
in pleading for our restoration, for the church and nation, and
for my children particularly. Then I went to prayer, and God
did surprisingly enlarge my heart in all these concerns for about
an hour and a half. O what a melting season it was ! I told
the Lord he was welcome to me and all that I had, to use as
he pleased, so that we might be to his glory. I told him I had
given my sons to him in baptism in their infancy, and many
times on my knees since, tendered them to him in his special
service, and never yet repented of the loan ; yea, I had given
them to the Lord, and judged it a greater honour that they
should convert souls, than to be princes to rule over men; and
I hope God has accepted this deed of gift, because he enlarged
my heart and influenced m.e with love and tenderness. After
this, Mr. F. desired my son to make a confession of his faith,
which he did according to the method in the creed, with much
accuracy and brevity. Then he asked him concerning his end
in undertaking the ministry, his resolution to adhere to it, &c.
proceeding next to the imposition of hands ; my son kneeling
down and Mr. I', praying about half an hour with much seri-
ousness, after which we gave him the right hand of fellowship.
Then Mr. Dawson, in room of an exhortation to him, preached
us an honest sermon, suitable to the occasion from 2 Tim. ii.
15 ; it was a very plain, pertinent, and profitable discourse.
After that he went to prayer, sung a psalm, and pronounced a
blessing. We finished this exercise about two o'clock, because
Mr. Frankland was to go away that night. When we had
dined other people came, and from four to six o'clock I preached
to them on Tsalm xliv. 17; God helped. Mr. Jessot drew up
a paper, to which we four subscribed our hands, that on Aug.
598 LIFE OF THE REV. J. HEYWOOD.
24, 1681, we, having received satisfaction concerning Jolin
Hey wood by testimonials, and having taken a proof of his abili-
ties by preaching, praying, and various parts of learning, have
solemnly set him apart with fasting, and prayer, and imposition
of hands to the work of the ministry. Thus far in this affair,
and he is the eighth person on whom I have laid hands in this
dark and dead period : blessed be God. May Aaron's rod fur-
ther blossom and produce still more fruit. Lord, grant a sup-
ply and a full restitution."
Dui'ing the greater part of the following winter, Mr. J. Hey-
wood preached in Craven, but not meeting with sufficient en-
couragement in his work he returned home May 2G, 1682. In
June this year he accompanied his brother Eliezer to London,
where he had many opportunities of preaching. On one of
these occasions a gentleman who had heard him was so much
pleased with his discourse, that he followed him to his lodgings
and asked him if he would become chaplain to his brother-in-
la\v, who resided a short distance in the country. This led to
his accepting the office of chaplain to Mr. Marsh of Garson,
four miles from St. Alban's, Hertfordshire.
He entered on his work in this place, Aug. 17, 1682, and
when he had been there a few weeks, he thus addressed his fa-
ther in a letter : " Dearest Father, at my coming to London
yesterday with our gentlefolks, I found your letter ready to give
me a good welcome to town, and I can only in requital testify
my grateful acceptance, and give you a brief yet as full an an-
sv^er to its contents, as my short stay in town and the subject
admit of The all-wise Governor and our covenanted God and
guide, hath graciously, in answer to prayers, found out some em-
ploy in this country for a worthless worm, and given me (which
I highly prize) room in the hearts and affections of his praying
servants. He has helped me, by faith and prayer, to commit
my concerns to him, and almost beyond hopes found me out a
godly, well-ordered family to be in, and inclined their hearts, be-
yond my deserts, to give me kind entertainment and respect, in-
somuch that though I had some intention to have given you a
visit before my fixing here, yet they seem with a kind of backward
willingness to speak of it, lest (as they express it) something
should obviate my return. As winter is drawing on, the roads
being bad, and the journey chargeable, I shall with your leave
defer it, and order my brother to send up some things for me.
We have resolved, God willing, to spend a year together. I
shall have sufficient work : I am to preach twice on the Lord's
day, catechize the servants, and, now that nights are growing
long, expound and analyze a part of scripture every night. We
LIFE OF THE llEV. J. HEYWOOD. 599
have a pretty company on Lord's days, and our number in-
creases daily, the doors being open to all. We have able, good
old Christians, and we had a very sweet, heart-melting oppor-
timity at a private day (so called) on public and private accounts
last Thursday ; God mercifully helped me in prayer and
preaching, and some three or four private Christians in prayer.
Bless God on our behalf, I mean, let God alone have the glory,
and beg for me a suitable and profiting heart. My work is
likely to increase ; pray hard that divine grace and strength
may be multiplied."
On the receipt of this letter, his grateful father thus expressed
his feehngs : " Who or what am I that my child, after all his
tossings and temptations, should be so comfortably settled?
Who am I that I should have a son of such parts ? But be-
cause he hath such notable gifts, God hath taken strange ways
to humble him and bring him low. He needed, and I needed
these humbling providences. God hath thereby awakened con-
science, and stirred up strong cries and tears in both. He hath
spent whole nights in humbling his soul, and wrestling with God.
It may be, all his dejections, temptations, and afflictions are to
prepare him for mercy. I have given up myself and children
to the Lord; let him use me and mine where and how he pleas-
eth. If God may be glorified, his church edified, and souls
converted and saved by me and them, I have all and enough.
Who knows what use God may make of my child in the south .'*
If I never see him again in this world I am content ; may he
but serve his generation according to the will of God, and may
I meet him in heaven with a train of souls brought to God by
his faithful labours !"
In a letter received by his father about six or seven weeks
after the preceding, Mr. John Hey wood says : " We, through
mercy, are yet quiet though threatened. God hath been pleased
to settle me in a retired place, where I have great conveniency
for private meditation and study. My work is fully as much or
more than I shall be able to continue to go through, though
God is able to strengthen me both inwardly and outwardly. I
think it good to be free from the crowd and temptations of the
world. O beg that God would give me a better heart, willing
to improve advantages in order to future services. Let me
have the help of your prayers, that our breathings one for an-
other may often meet before the Lord. God hath and doth
help me to lie before him and look back into my life. O the
sweet hours I have had in secret with my best friend ! God
help me to maintain communion with himself, and I shall do
well : he will not fail.""
600 LIFE OF THE REV. J. HEYWOOD.
Whilst at Garson, Mr. J. Heywood occasionally preached
for J\Ir. Grew at St. Alban's, to whose congregation his services
were acceptable. On one of these occasions, three Justices,
three constables, and four soldiers came to disturb the congre-
gation. They attempted to gain admission at the front gate,
but not being able, went round to a back part of the building in
which the people were at;sembled. In the meantime, Mr. H.
was let down by a trap-door to a place of concealment, and the
people rushed out at the front and made their escape. He re-
ceived a visit from his father in December this year, who was
much ple?.sed with his son^s situation.
July 14, 1683, his father received a letter from him, in which
he thus writes : " Dearest f^tlier, since by the decree of heaven
our personal absence is continued, I canaot but be frequently
sending to you (as by heaven's ^ay) in prayer for a blessing
upon you and your incessant labours, so also by these paper
messengers. Here I am yet, though I almost long to be with
you, unless Providence find me out some work ; as who knows
what God may do 'i He hath raised me up many friends that
are very desirous of my settlement here, and are using all their
interest, that if it be the will of God, I may continue near
them. I cannot but with tenderness take notice how solicitous
some arc, whom I never knew before, far above my deserts or
expectations. I desire to be at the disposal of a wise and gra-
cious God. I preached last Lord's day for Mr. Grew, and we
were quiet ; blessed be God. I am to preach for him also next
Lord's day. Men threaten and are highly incensed ; what
their rage may do and how it may vent itself, God knows.
God help me to bear my witness, and to keep the word of his
patience."
The above extract contain^: an intimation that- there was
some probability of his removal, which soon afterwards hap-
pened. Mr. Marsh, declining housekeeping, no longer needed
Mr. Haywood's services, so that he remained at Garson not
much more than a year, and in November 1683 became chap-
lain to Lady Hatton of London, a member of Mr. T. Watson's
church. Mr. Rich. Stretton, who at this time was a prisoner
in Newgate for preaching the gospel, earnestly recommended
Mr. H. to accept this invitation. Several interesting letters
passed between Lady Hatton and O. Heywood, concerning his
son's settlement in her fainily, in one of which she says : " I
find you are willing to have your son in my family. I must
conclude with you, and believe there is more than an ordinary
providence in it, because I am sure I have been offered twenty,
and could never fix till Jiow. All I have to desire of vou is.
LIFE OF THE llEV. J. HEYWOOD. 601
that you will add your good counsel and prayers that God may
make him a blessing to me and mine, which I am sure is your
hearty desire and ever shall be the earnest prayer of your loving
friend, LUCY HATTON."
Mr. John Ileywood entered Lady Hatton's ftimily, Nov. 6,
1683. He was much respected by her, as appears from the fol-
lowing extract of a letter she wrote to his father, when he had
been with her about three or four months : " Your great ac-
knowledgments of my respect for your son, I thank you for ;
but you may be assured that his prudent deportment and good
conversation merit respect both from me and mine. That
large share which he hath in the affections of my children, is a
great contentment to my mind; for indeed I have no greater
joy than to find my children walking in the truth, and follow-
ing the examples of wise and good men in the midst of this per-
verse and wicked generation. I hope the longer he continues
in my family, the more experience I shall have of the benefit of
his prayers and good advice." His continuance, however, in
this family was only about nine months, for attending her La-
dyship on a visit to her son's in Cambridgeshire, where he was
much exposed to company, he was on one occasion overcome by
liquor. Having by this fall injured his character and influence,
it was deemed most proper that he should leave the family. He
returned home to his father for a few weeks, who became satis-
fied of the sincerity of his repentance.
Mr. Westby of Ravenfield near Rotherham, being in want of
a tutor for his son, applied to Mr. John Hey wood, who entered
on his oflice Nov. 18, 1684, having been committed to the care
and blessing of God, with many prayers and tears, by his father
the evening before. In this family he acted not only as a tutor
but chaplain, and occasionally preached in neighbouring places.
When accompanying Mr. Westby to attend the high sheriff at
York, in the March assizes 169~, he was taken so alarmingly ill
that for a few days he was considered in a very dangerous state,
but at length God blessed the means, and he returned to Raven-
field.
When the Dissenters at Rotherham, encouraged by the
liberty of worship enjoyed under the Toleration Act, had taken
a convenient place for their meetings, they iniited in an invita-
tion to Mr. J. Heywood to become their minister, which he ac-
cepted in March 1693. During his ministry the congregation
increased, and, as Ravenfield was only three miles from Rother-
ham, he continued to reside at Mr. Westby^s till his marriage
with Miss Elizabeth Stacey, Oct. 3, 1 691.
602 LIl E^ OF THE REV. ELIEZEIl HEYWOOD.
About two years after he Iiad become the minister at Rother-
ham, he received a pressing invitation from tlie Dissenting con-
gregation at Pontefract, to which place he removed in the
spring of 1695, and continued his ministry here till his death,
which took place in his father-in-law's house, Balifiekl near
Sheffield, Sept. 3, 1704, in the forty -ninth year of his age, and
was buried at Hansworth. Mrs. Elizabeth Hey wood remained
a widow, and died April 15, 1720. They had three children.
Timothy, who was born at Pontefract I)ec. 13, 1695, com-
menced business as an apothecary in Sheffield, and died Sept.
24, 1717, only six days after his marriage. Elizabeth their
daughter died March 21, 1718, and Bridget died young.
MEMOIR
OF
MR. ELIEZER HEYWOOD,
SECOND SON OF THE
REV. OLIVER HEYWOOD.
—»t$i$—
Mr. Eliezer Heywood was born April 18th, 1657, exactly
that day twelve-months after the birth of his brother. "When
about a year old, he was suddenly taken so very ill, that he
was for a short time supposed to be dead, but speedily revived
a little, and the next day the small-pox appeared. At a very
tender age, he and his brother were, on special occasions, en-
couraged by their father to engage in prayer, in the family.
When Eliezer was questioned by his father at a solemn meeting
for prayer, what he desired God's servants should pray for, on
behalf of himself and brother .^ he replied : " that God woidd
give thein grace and gifts, forgive their sins of childhood and
loss of time, make them studious, and keep them from temp-
tation and sinful company."
Eliezer and his brother Avere instructed by the same masters,
were students together at jMr. Frankland's, and finished their
education in Scotland. Whilst at Natland, under Mr. Frank-
land's instruction, Eliezer had a narrow escape from a watery
grave whilst bathing with some of his fellow-students. He had
gone into a deep place where he was taken over head, but lift-
LIFE OF THE llEV. ELIEZER HEYWOOD. 603
ing up his hand, part of which was seen above the water, Mr.
Timothy Jollie came to his help and rescued him.
After he had completed his studies and returned home, he
was received into church-fellowship at Northowram, Dec. 30th,
1677. He went to be chaplain to Major Taylor, of Walling-
wells, Nottinghamshire, on the borders of Derbyshire, Sept.
9th, 1678, and though this gentleman died jVlarch 29th in the
next year, Mr. E. Heywood continued tutor and chaplain in the
family twenty-two years. On occasion of this settlement, his
father made the following remarks : " My sons are now parted
who have lived together as twins. It went sore with them to
be separated, but being now grown men they better understand
their work and interest, and so are willing to be parted, though
with much difficulty and many tears. Blessed be God for this
reciprocal working of fraternal love, so that herein that saying"
is not verified, Fratrum concord'ia vara est. God has knit
their hearts together by nature, and I hope by grace. They
are parted that lived as brethren ; and death will part us all.
Blessed be God for hopes of a delightful and satisfying meeting
in heaven. They are parted ; so did I and my dear brother
part, though we had lived together at school, at Cambridge,
and in one house some time when we were ministers at neigh-
bouring places ; at last we parted almost forty miles distant ;
and now we are parted by death, as will be the case with them.
O how fresh doth » this their parting bring to my remembrance
those sad separations of my amiable brother and myself ; for I
may truly say, our hearts were extraordinarily endeared to each
other. But how will ovir souls be transported at our next meet-
ing ! Blessed be God for this hope. My sons are gone from
me, but not without my leave and approbation, nay, to my
abundant content and satisfaction ; it might have been other-
wise. They are gone with my blessing and prayers."
In travelling to his father's house, Jan. 1680, he was sud-
denly taken ill with ague-fits, at Derby, and was obliged to
remain there a short time, before he could be removed. In
September also, the same year, he was so ill at Walling-wells,
that he Avas occasionally insensible, and was for a time supposed
to be near death.* This illness continued three or four weeks
and left him in a very weak state ; but after he had visited his
father, he so far recovered as to be able to return to his work
in the beginning of December. Still he did not recover his
wonted strength, and in September the next year, he had a
return of his complaint, though not so severe as the former,
* See page 24.5.
604 LIFE OF THE REV. ELlEZEll IIEYWOOD.
At the time his father, Mr. O. Hey wood, was a prisoner at
York Castle, he liearcl that his son Ehezer was very ill, so that
"when he wrote to enquire concerning him, he did not know
whether the letter would find him dead or alive ; but a few
days afterwards he received the following intelligence from his
son : " My God hath done great tilings for me, and I desire to
admire and adore him as a God hearing-prayer. He was
pleased in a gi'cat measure to prevent fears, and though I had
the symptoms of a malignant fever, by which many hereabouts
have been snatched away, God was pleased of his goodness to
direct to means which were successful soon after its beginning,
and now, praise be given to his holy name, I am pretty well
again, and was yesterday at the funeral of a lusty person who
had died of the same disorder. O the distinguishing provi-
dences of God ! I am not altogether without hope that God
may have some work "to do by me : blessed be God. That same
day, Nov. 10th, 1685, 1 was enabled to pay my grateful vows."
During Mr. Eliezer Heywood's residence at Walling-wells,
he occasionally preached elsewhere, besides his stated labours
in the family, and when King James"'s declaration for liberty of
worship came forth, he desired Presbyterian ordination. Ac-
cording to his wish, he with three others, was ordained at his
father's house, June 1st, 1687, concerning which his father
thus writes : " I had devoted my two sons, which was my all,
to the work of the ministry, and desired nothing else for them
but a principle of saving grace, useful gifts to fit them for that
high calling, a regular entrance into it, a fit opportunity for
faithfully managing it, and success therein. In most of these,
God hath answered me according to the desire of my heart. I
hope God hath given them grace, competency of gifts, and John
a regular entrance into the ministry some years ago. June 1,
1687, my son Eliezer having been examined in all parts of
learning, disputing in Latin, &c. was set apart to the ministry,
■with fasting, and prayer, and imposition of hands, to the great
satisfaction of all present. Blessed, blessed be God, that he hath
counted me and mine faithful, putting us into the ministry. It
is more to me than if they had been made knights or created
barons of the realm, with proportionable estates. God is wel-
come to them, to make what use he pleaseth of them, and though
they are yet in gentlemen's houses, as chaplains, yet I humbly
hope, and wait, and pray that tlie Lord will call them forth
among his people, and bless their labours to the good of souls."
January 18, 1700, Mr. Eliezer Hey wood was married at
Hansworth, to Helen, daughter of Mr. John Rotheram, of
LIFE OF THE REV. ELlEZEll IlEYWOOD, 605
Dronfield in Derbyshire. On tliis occasion, the family at
Walling-wells, as a token of their esteem for him, and his long
services, made him a very handsome present. He appears to
to have continued his connection with this family, after his
marriage, two or three years. His first child, called Oliver,
was born March 8th, 1*701, but lived only six or seven days.*
About this time he commenced housekeeping at Carlton, near
Walling-wells. He removed to Dronfield, in 1703, or 1704,
and preached there to a small congregation till within a short
period of his death. He was the father of eight children, some
of whom died in infancy. He buried his wife August 26, 1712,
havmg followed to the grave his eldest daughter, only five weeks
before. He remained a widower the rest of his days. Mr. E.
Hey wood died at Dronfield, June 12, 1730, aged seventy-three.
The following is a copy of the inscription on a tablet in Dron-
field church : —
ELIEZER HEYWOOD, A. M.
Fide et Vita Theologus
(Oliveri Fil: et Johan: Fra: A. HI.
Utriusq: ex paterna et materna Gente
Vere Evangelici:)
JMoribus Sanctis, et pari Blodestia Imitandus
Ardentissimoq: Docendi Studio Suspiciendus
Hie Jacet Reconditiis.
Obiit A. XII Cal: Junii A. D. MDCCXXX,
^tat: Suas LXXIII.
Non ita procul Line Occubat Helen Uxor
Sui dilectissima VIII. liberonim Mater
Ex eodera Conjugio, ex quibus filius
Unicus et Duae filiae superstites.
Mr. Eliezer Heywood was succeeded at Dronfield as pastor
of the dissenting congregation there, by the Rev. Samuel Shaw,
who afterwards removed to Mansfield and died there in ]748.
Eliezer Heywood, (the grandson of O. Heywood,) son of the
above, was born at Dronfield, Oct. 8, 1710, and educated by
Mr. Wadsworth, dissenting minister at Sheffield. In 1729, he
went to London, and was under the tuition of Dr. Ridgley.
His father's declining health caused him to leave London in
March 1730 ; he married the daughter of Mr. Shaw, the suc-
cessor of his father at Dronfield, and succeeded him at Mans-
field. He died much respected, July 22, 1783, aged seventy-
three, having been minister at Mansfield thirty-three years.
Mr. Samuel Heywood, son of the above, town clerk of
Nottingham, died greatly lamented, July 25, 1789, aged thirty-
four. Some of the family still survive, and remain at Mans-
field justly esteemed.
* See Letters, IV. and V.
606 LETTER TO MR. NATHANIEL HEYWOOD.
CONCLUSION.
In the Pedigree of the Heywood family, it is stated, that
Mr. Richard Heywood, son of the Rev. Natlianiel Heywood,
of Ormskirk, was of Liverpool, but since that part of the vo-
lume went through the Press, the Editor has ascertained that
Mr. Richard Heywood removed from Liverpool, and settled at
Drogheda in Ireland. During his residence there, he solicited
his brother Nathaniel, that he would send over his son Benja-
min when he had finished his education, and place him under
his care ; accordingly he was sent, and became very successful
in business ; though he was cut off in the prime of life, being
only thirty years of age when he died, he left his family in
affluent circumstances.
When Mr. Heywood, the ejected minister of Ormskirk, had
been arrested by the disease which brought him to the grave,
and was on his death bed, he seems to have had no little con-
cern for his beloved partner and their children, exposed to the
rigours of persecution, (see page 498,) but he was enabled
to commit them to the care of Him, who is the father of the
fatherless, and the husband of the widow, and was encouraged
to hope that the guardianship of heaven would not fail them.
And his anticipations appear to have been realized, for the
smiles of Providence singularly distinguished his descendants.
For the following Letter the ^^^riter is indebted to J. P.
Heywood, of Wakefield, Esq. to whom he takes this opportunity
of making grateful acknowledgments for his patronage, and the
original documents he has kindly furnished to mature this
Publication.
Transcript of a Letter from Mr. Richard Heywood,
of Drogheda, to his brother Nathaniel.
Dearest Begther, Drogheda^ the \st Feb. 1699-
I received yours of the 27th November; it lay a
great while at Liverpool, the wind proving contrary ; but it was
very welcome when it did come. I make no question but the
account of my safety was very grateful to you. I do wish, and
am encouraged to hope, that patience under your grievances,
accompanied with serious diligence in the performance of your
COPY OF THE PRESENTATION, ETC. 607
duty — in tiiat great work wherein it hath pleased God to give
you some success, (which you ought not to be unthankfnl for,)
will in the event meet with God's favourable acceptance, and
occasion your present and everlasting joy. So, dear brother, go
on, maugre all the temptations of the Seducer of mankind, or
the doubts of your own mind, which is the frailty of your con-
stitution, and the God of heaven bless you, and all yours in
the Lord Jesus Christ. I do desire your favourable construc-
tion of my deportment whilst in England, for if I did not ex-
press that heartiness of respect, of which I am sure I am truly
possessed, (as also being well assured of yours,) the occasion was
the sad circumstances of sister Park ; but now in our letters
to each other, and especially in our prayers for each other, let our
mutual affection be expressed — and let us still hope in God.
I thank Sister for her kind remembrance, to whom pray make
my respects and service acceptable — remember me also to little
Benjamin and Natty ; I know I need not urge your care about
Benjamin, to prepare him with writing a good hand, and learn-
ing to cast up accounts well, and improvement in his Latin
during his stay with you — nor do I need to mention that which
is your chief concern, and which indeed is most requisite, that
you endeavour to instil such principles of true religion into his
mind, as may be of happy consequence to him in the conduct of
temporal affairs, and such as taking early possession of his
thoughts, affections and practice, may prevent the vanity of the
world, the corruptions of nature, or subtle suggestions of Satan
from assaulting him — or prevailing over him — that so, by the
grace of God, they may be of important use in reference to his
everlasting comfort and salvation. When I would have him
come over, I will write ; I suppose in the summer will be most
convenient and safe. Excuse my tediousness, I am,
Your very affectionate Brother,
I^ICH. HEYWOOD.
Copy of the Presentation of the Vicarage of Ormskirk
to the Rev. Nathaniel Heywood, a Fac-simile
of which taken from the Original is given in this
volume.
CHARLOTTE, Countess of Derby, the true and undoubted
Patroness of the Vicarage of Ormskirk, in the County Palatine
of Lancaster, unto the honourable the Commissioners for appro-
608 COPY OF THE PUESENTATION, ETC.
bation and admission of public Preachers, sendeth greeting in
our Lord God everlasting. I do present unto you to be ad-
mitted unto the Vicarage of Ormskirk aforesaid, being now
void, my well beloved in Christ Nathaniel Heywood, minister
of God's word, humbly desiring that the said Nathaniel Hey-
wood may be by you admitted unto the said Vicarage with its
rights, members and appertenances. And that you will be
pleased to do whatsoever shall be requisite in that behalf for
the making him, the said Nathaniel Heywood, Vicar of the
Church of Ormskirk aforesaid, according to the late ordinance
in that case made and provided. Ix Witkess whereof I have
hereunto set my hand and seal, the seventh day of August, in
the year of our Lord God one thousand six hundred fifty
and six.
DERBY.
END OF THE FIRST VOLUME.
J. VINT, PRINTER, IDLE.
O
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