XXVIII. SILENCE AWHILE.

HAD not mine eyes, as any other man’s may, read it in the printed proclamations of King Edward the Sixth, (when the pulpits, generally Popish, sounded the alarm to Kett’s rebellion, and the Devonshire commotion,) I would not have believed what followeth:—

2 Edw. VI. Sept. 13.

“By these presents, Wee inhibite generally all manner of Preachers whatsoever they be, to preach in this meane space,⁴³⁴³This lasted in full force but for some few weeks. to the intent that the whole Clergy might apply themselves in prayer to Almightie God, for the better atchieving of the same most Godlie intent, and purpose of Reformation.”

What hurt were it if in this juncture of time all our preaching were turned into praying for one month together, that God would settle a happy peace in this nation?

However, if this be offensive to any, and giveth cause of distaste, the second motion may be embraced: that for a year, at least, all pulpits may be silent as to any part of differences relating to our times, and only deliver what belongeth to faith and good works.