The History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland

With this our Letter John Knox wrote two, one to the said Secretary, and another to the Queens Majesty her self: The Tenor whereof follows thus:⟨p. 224⟩ John Knox his second Letter to M. Cecile, for the delivery of one other to the Queen. SIR, After my humble commendations, please you deliver this other enclosed to the Queen: It containeth a few and simple words of my Confession what I think of her Authority, how it is just, and what may make it odious in Gods presence. I hear that there is one Confutation set forth against the first blast; God grant that the writers thereof have no more sought the favours of this present world, no less the glory of God, and the stable good of his Country, then he who enterprised in that blast to utter his conscience. When I shall have time (which now is somewhat precious unto me) to peruse that work, I will communicate my judgement with you. The time is now, Sir, that all, who either thirst for Christ to reign in this Isle, or yet the hearts of the Inhabitants be joined together in love unfeigned, ought rather to study how the same might be brought to pass, then vainly to travel for the maintenance of that, whereof already we have seen the danger, and feel the smart: If the most part of women be wicked, and such as willingly we would not should reign over us: And if the most godly, and such as have are graces, be yet mortal, we ought to take heed, lest in establishing of one judged godly, and profitable to her Country, we make an Interest and Title to many; by whom not only will the Truth be impugned, but also will the Country be brought into bondage. God give you, and other favourers of your Country eyes to see, and wisdom to avoid the dangers appearing. By divers Letters I have required license to have visited the North parts of England, but as yet I have received no favourable answer. The longer, Sir, this it be delayed, the less comfort will the faithful there receive; yea, the weaker will the Queens favour be: If I were not an unfeigned friend to her Majesty, I would instantly beg such liberty; which to me, I know, will neither be profitable nor pleasing in the flesh. The common things here, I doubt not you know: some things I have (as often times I have written) which gladly I would communicate, but I mind not to commit them to Paper and Ink;

With this our Letter Iohn Knox wrote two, one to the said Secretary, and another to the Queens Majesty her self: The Tenour whereof follows thus:⟨p. 224⟩