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+<H1>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The New Atlantis, by Sir Francis Bacon</H1>
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+Title: The New Atlantis
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+Author: Sir Francis Bacon
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+Release Date: December, 2000 [EBook #2434]
+[This HTML file was first posted on June 11, 2003]
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+Edition: 11
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+Language: English
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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK, THE NEW ATLANTIS ***
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+Revision to edition 11 and preparation of HTML version by William Fishburne
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+</PRE>
+<div align="center"><h1>The New Atlantis</h1>
+<h2>By Sir Francis Bacon</h2></div>
+<div align="center"><h2>INTRODUCTORY NOTE</h2></div>
+<p>Bacon's literary executor, Dr. Rowley, published <i>The New Atlantis"</i> in
+1627, the year after the author's death. It seems to have been
+written about 1623, during that period of literary activity which
+followed Bacon's political fall. None of Bacon's writings gives in
+short apace so vivid a picture of his tastes and aspirations as this
+fragment of the plan of an ideal commonwealth. The generosity and
+enlightenment, the dignity and splendor, the piety and public spirit,
+of the inhabitants of Bensalem represent the ideal qualities which
+Bacon the statesman desired rather than hoped to see characteristic of
+his own country; and in Solomon's House we have Bacon the scientist
+indulging without restriction his prophetic vision of the future of
+human knowledge. No reader acquainted in any degree with the
+processes and results of modern scientific inquiry can fail to be
+struck by the numerous approximations made by Bacon's imagination to
+the actual achievements of modern times. The plan and organization of
+his great college lay down the main lines of the modern research
+university; and both in pure and applied science he anticipates a
+strikingly large number of recent inventions and discoveries. In
+still another way is <i>The New Atlantis</i> typical of Bacon's attitude.
+In spite of the enthusiastic and broad-minded schemes he laid down for
+the pursuit of truth, Bacon always had an eye to utility. The
+advancement of science which he sought was conceived by him as a means
+to a practical end the increase of man's control over nature, and the
+comfort and convenience of humanity. For pure metaphysics, or any
+form of abstract thinking that yielded no "fruit," he had little
+interest; and this leaning to the useful is shown in the practical
+applications of the discoveries made by the scholars of Solomon's
+House. Nor does the interest of the work stop here. It contains much,
+both in its political and in its scientific ideals, that we have as
+yet by no means achieved, but which contain valuable elements of
+suggestion and stimulus for the future.</p>
+<div align="center"><h1>The New Atlantis</h1></div>
+<p>We sailed from Peru, (where we had continued for the space of one
+whole year) for China and Japan, by the South Sea; taking with us
+victuals for twelve months; and had good winds from the east, though
+soft and weak, for five months space, and more. But the wind came
+about, and settled in the west for many days, so as we could make
+little or no way, and were sometime in purpose to turn back. But then
+again there arose strong and great winds from the south, with a point
+east, which carried us up (for all that we could do) towards the north;
+by which time our victuals failed us, though we had made good spare
+of them. So that finding ourselves, in the midst of the greatest
+wilderness of waters in the world, without victuals, we gave ourselves
+for lost men and prepared for death. Yet we did lift up our hearts
+and voices to God above, who showeth his wonders in the deep,
+beseeching him of his mercy, that as in the beginning he discovered
+the face of the deep, and brought forth dry land, so he would not
+discover land to us, that we might not perish.</p>
+<p>And it came to pass that the next day about evening we saw within a
+kenning before us, towards the north, as it were thick clouds, which
+did put us in some hope of land; knowing how that part of the South
+Sea was utterly unknown; and might have islands, or continents, that
+hitherto were not come to light. Wherefore we bent our course thither,
+where we saw the appearance of land, all that night; and in the
+dawning of the next day, we might plainly discern that it was a land;
+flat to our sight, and full of boscage; which made it show the more
+dark. And after an hour and a half's sailing, we entered into a good
+haven, being the port of a fair city; not great indeed, but well built,
+and that gave a pleasant view from the sea: and we thinking every
+minute long, till we were on land, came close to the shore, and
+offered to land. But straightways we saw divers of the people, with
+<i>bastons</i> in their hands (as it were) forbidding us to land; yet without
+any cries of fierceness, but only as warning us off, by signs that
+they made. Whereupon being not a little discomforted, we were
+advising with ourselves, what we should do.</p>
+<p>During which time, there made forth to us a small boat, with about
+eight persons in it; whereof one of them had in his hand a tipstaff of
+a yellow cane, tipped at both ends with blue, who came aboard our ship,
+without any show of distrust at all. And when he saw one of our
+number, present himself somewhat before the rest, he drew forth a
+little scroll of parchment (somewhat yellower than our parchment, and
+shining like the leaves of writing tables, but otherwise soft and
+flexible,) and delivered it to our foremost man. In which scroll were
+written in ancient Hebrew, and in ancient Greek, and in good Latin of
+the school, and in Spanish, these words: </p>
+<blockquote>
+Land ye not, none of you; and
+provide to be gone from this coast, within sixteen days, except you
+have further time given you. Meanwhile, if you want fresh water or
+victuals, or help for your sick, or that your ship needeth repairs,
+write down your wants, and you shall have that, which belongeth to
+mercy.
+</blockquote>
+<p>This scroll was signed with a stamp of cherubim: wings, not
+spread, but hanging downwards; and by them a cross. This being
+delivered, the officer returned, and left only a servant with us to
+receive our answer.</p>
+<p>Consulting hereupon amongst ourselves, we were much perplexed. The
+denial of landing and hasty warning us away troubled us much; on the
+other side, to find that the people had languages, and were so full of
+humanity, did comfort us not a little. And above all, the sign of the
+cross to that instrument was to us a great rejoicing, and as it were a
+certain presage of good. Our answer was in the Spanish tongue; that
+for our ship, it was well; for we had rather met with calms and
+contrary winds than any tempests. For our sick, they were many, and
+in very ill case; so that if they were not permitted to land, they ran
+danger of their lives. Our other wants we set down in particular;
+adding, That we had some little store of merchandise, which if it
+pleased them to deal for, it might supply our wants, without being
+chargeable unto them. We offered some reward in <i>pistolets</i> unto the
+servant, and a piece of crimson velvet to be presented to the officer;
+but the servant took them not, nor would scarce look upon them; and
+so left us, and went back in another little boat, which was sent for
+him.</p>
+<p>About three hours after we had dispatched our answer, there came
+towards us a person (as it seemed) of place. He had on him a gown
+with wide sleeves, of a kind of water chamolet, of an excellent azure
+colour, fair more glossy than ours; his under apparel was green; and
+so was his hat, being in the form of a turban, daintily made, and not
+so huge as the Turkish turbans; and the locks of his hair came down
+below the brims of it. A reverend man was he to behold. He came in a
+boat, gilt in some part of it, with four persons more only in that
+boat; and was followed by another boat, wherein were some twenty.
+When he was come within a flightshot of our ship, signs were made to
+us, that we should send forth some to meet him upon the water; which
+we presently did in our ship-boat, sending the principal man amongst
+us save one, and four of our number with him.</p>
+<p>When we were come within six yards of their boat, they called to us to
+stay, and not to approach farther; which we did. And thereupon the
+man, whom I before described, stood up, and with a loud voice, in
+Spanish, asked, "Are ye Christians?" We answered, "We were;" fearing
+the less, because of the cross we had seen in the subscription. At
+which answer the said person lifted up his right hand towards Heaven,
+and drew it softly to his mouth (which is the gesture they use, when
+they thank God;) and then said : "If ye will swear (all of you) by the
+merits of the Saviour, that ye are no pirates, nor have shed blood,
+lawfully, nor unlawfully within forty days past, you may have licence
+to come on land." We said, "We were all ready to take that oath."
+Whereupon one of those that were with him, being (as it seemed) a
+notary, made an entry of this act. Which done, another of the
+attendants of the great person which was with him in the same boat,
+after his Lord had spoken a little to him, said aloud: "My Lord would
+have you know, that it is not of pride, or greatness, that he cometh
+not aboard your ship; but for that in your answer you declare that you
+have many sick amongst you, he was warned by the Conservator of Health
+of the city that he should keep a distance." We bowed ourselves
+towards him, and answered, "We were his humble servants; and accounted
+for great honour, and singular humanity towards us, that which was
+already done; but hoped well, that the nature of the sickness of our
+men was not infectious." So he returned; and a while after came the
+Notary to us aboard our ship; holding in his hand a fruit of that
+country, like an orange, but of color between orange-tawney and
+scarlet; which cast a most excellent odour. He used it (as it
+seemeth) for a preservative against infection. He gave us our oath;
+"By the name of Jesus, and his merits:" and after told us, that the
+next day, by six of the Clock, in the Morning, we should be sent to,
+and brought to the Strangers' House, (so he called it,) where we
+should be accommodated of things, both for our whole, and for our sick.
+So he left us; and when we offered him some <i>pistolets</i>, he smiling
+said, "He must not be twice paid for one labour:" meaning (as I take
+it) that he had salary sufficient of the State for his service. For
+(as I after learned) they call an officer that taketh rewards, "twice
+paid."</p>
+<p>The next morning early, there came to us the same officer that came to
+us at first with his cane, and told us, He came to conduct us to the
+Strangers' House; and that he had prevented the hour, because we might
+have the whole day before us, for our business. "For," said he, "if
+you will follow my advice, there shall first go with me some few of
+you, and see the place, and how it may be made convenient for you; and
+then you may send for your sick, and the rest of your number, which ye
+will bring on land." We thanked him, and said, "That this care, which
+he took of desolate strangers, God would reward." And so six of us
+went on land with him: and when we were on land, he went before us,
+and turned to us, and said, "He was but our servant, and our guide."
+He led us through three fair streets; and all the way we went, there
+were gathered some people on both sides, standing in a row; but in so
+civil a fashion, as if it had been, not to wonder at us, but to
+welcome us: and divers of them, as we passed by them, put their arms a
+little abroad; which is their gesture, when they did bid any welcome.</p>
+<p>The Strangers' House is a fair and spacious house, built of brick, of
+somewhat a bluer colour than our brick; and with handsome windows,
+some of glass, some of a kind of cambric oiled. He brought us first
+into a fair parlour above stairs, and then asked us, "What number of
+persons we were? And how many sick?" We answered, "We were in all,
+(sick and whole,) one and fifty persons, whereof our sick were
+seventeen." He desired us to have patience a little, and to stay till
+he came back to us; which was about an hour after; and then he led us
+to see the chambers which were provided for us, being in number
+nineteen: they having cast it (as it seemeth) that four of those
+chambers, which were better than the rest, might receive four of the
+principal men of our company; and lodge them alone by themselves; and
+the other fifteen chambers were to lodge us two and two together. The
+chambers were handsome and cheerful chambers, and furnished civilly."
+Then he led us to a long gallery, like a <i>dorture</i>, where he showed us
+all along the one side (for the other side was but wall and window),
+seventeen cells, very neat ones, having partitions of cedar wood.
+Which gallery and cells, being in all forty, many more than we needed, were instituted as an infirmary for sick persons. And he told us
+withal, that as any of our sick waxed well, he might be removed from
+his cell, to a chamber; for which purpose there were set forth ten
+spare chambers, besides the number we spake of before. This done, he
+brought us back to the parlour, and lifting up his cane a little, (as
+they do when they give any charge or command) said to us, "Ye are to
+know, that the custom of the land requireth, that after this day and
+to-morrow, (which we give you for removing of your people from your
+ship,) you are to keep within doors for three days. But let it not
+trouble you, nor do not think yourselves restrained, but rather left
+to your rest and ease. You shall want nothing, and there are six of
+our people appointed to attend you, for any business you may have
+abroad." We gave him thanks, with all affection and respect, and said,
+"God surely is manifested in this land." We offered him also twenty
+<i>pistolets</i>; but he smiled, and only said; "What? twice paid!" And so
+he left us.</p>
+<p>Soon after our dinner was served in; which was right good viands, both
+for bread and treat: better than any collegiate diet, that I have
+known in Europe. We had also drink of three sorts, all wholesome and
+good; wine of the grape; a drink of grain, such as is with us our ale,
+but more clear: And a kind of cider made of a fruit of that country; a
+wonderful pleasing and refreshing drink. Besides, there were brought
+in to us, great store of those scarlet oranges, for our sick; which
+(they said) were an assured remedy for sickness taken at sea. There
+was given us also, a box of small gray, or whitish pills, which they
+wished our sick should take, one of the pills, every night before
+sleep; which (they said) would hasten their recovery.</p>
+<p>The next day, after that our trouble of carriage and removing of our
+men and goods out of our ship, was somewhat settled and quiet, I
+thought good to call our company together; and when they were
+assembled, said unto them:</p>
+<blockquote>
+"My dear friends, let us know ourselves,
+and how it standeth with us. We are men cast on land, as Jonas was,
+out of the whale's belly, when we were as buried in the deep: and now
+we are on land, we are but between death and life; for we are beyond,
+both the old world, and the new; and whether ever we shall see Europe,
+God only knoweth. It is a kind of miracle bath brought us hither: and
+it must be little less, that shall bring us hence. Therefore in
+regard of our deliverance past, and our danger present, and to come,
+let us look up to God, and every man reform his own ways. Besides we
+are come here amongst a Christian people, full of piety and humanity:
+let us not bring that confusion of face upon ourselves, as to show our
+vices, or unworthiness before them. Yet there is more. For they have
+by commandment, (though in form of courtesy) cloistered us within
+these wall, for three days: who knoweth, whether it be not, to take
+some taste of our manners and conditions? And if they find them bad,
+to banish us straightways; if good, to give us further time. For
+these men that they have given us for attendance, may withal have an
+eye upon us. Therefore for God's love, and as we love the weal of our
+souls and bodies, let us so behave ourselves, as we may be at peace
+with God, and may find grace in the eyes of this people."
+</blockquote>
+<p>Our company
+with one voice thanked me for my good admonition, and promised me to
+live soberly and civilly, and without giving any the least occasion of
+offence. So we spent our three days joyfully, and without care, in
+expectation what would be done with us, when they were expired.
+During which time, we had every hour joy of the amendment of our sick;
+who thought themselves cast into some divine pool of healing; they
+mended so kindly, and so fast.</p>
+<p>The morrow after our three days were past, there came to us a new man,
+that we had not seen before, clothed in blue as the former was, save
+that his turban was white, with a small red cross on the top. He had
+also a tippet of fine linen. At his coming in, he did bend to us a
+little, and put his arms abroad. We of our parts saluted him in a
+very lowly and submissive manner; as looking that from him, we should
+receive sentence of life, or death: he desired to speak with some few
+of us: whereupon six of us only staid, and the rest avoided the room.
+He said, "I am by office governor of this House of Strangers, and by
+vocation I am a Christian priest: and therefore am come to you to
+offer you my service, both as strangers and chiefly as Christians.
+Some things I may tell you, which I think you will not be unwilling to
+hear. The State hath given you license to stay on land, for the space
+of six weeks; and let it not trouble you, if your occasions ask
+further time, for the law in this point is not precise; and I do not
+doubt, but my self shall be able, to obtain for you such further time,
+as may be convenient. Ye shall also understand, that the Strangers'
+House is at this time rich, and much aforehand; for it hath laid up
+revenue these thirty-seven years; for so long it is since any stranger
+arrived in this part: and therefore take ye no care; the State will
+defray you all the time you stay; neither shall you stay one day the
+less for that. As for any merchandise ye have brought, ye shall be
+well used, and have your return, either in merchandise, or in gold and
+silver: for to us it is all one. And if you have any other request to
+make, hide it not. For ye shall find we will not make your
+countenance to fall by the answer ye shall receive. Only this I must
+tell you, that none of you must go above a karan," (that is with them
+a mile and an half) "from the walls of the city, without especial
+leave."</p>
+<p>We answered, after we had looked awhile one upon another, admiring
+this gracious and parent-like usage; "That we could not tell what to
+say: for we wanted words to express our thanks; and his noble free
+offers left us nothing to ask. It seemed to us, that we had before us
+a picture of our salvation in Heaven; for we that were a while since
+in the jaws of death, were now brought into a place, where we found
+nothing but consolations. For the commandment laid upon us, we would
+not fail to obey it, though it was impossible but our hearts should be
+enflamed to tread further upon this happy and holy ground." We added,
+"That our tongues should first cleave to the roofs of our mouths, ere
+we should forget, either his reverend person, or this whole nation, in
+our prayers." We also most humbly besought him, to accept of us as
+his true servants; by as just a right as ever men on earth were
+bounden; laying and presenting, both our persons, and all we had, at
+his feet. He said; "He was a priest, and looked for a priest's reward;
+which was our brotherly love, and the good of our souls and bodies."
+So he went from us, not without tears of tenderness in his eyes; and
+left us also confused with joy and kindness, saying amongst ourselves;
+"That we were come into a land of angels, which did appear to us daily,
+and prevent us with comforts, which we thought not of, much less
+expected."</p>
+<p>The next day about ten of the clock, the Governor came to us again,
+and after salutations, said familiarly; "That he was come to visit us;"
+and called for a chair, and sat him down: and we, being some ten of
+us, (the rest were of the meaner sort, or else gone abroad,) sat down
+with him, And when we were set, he began thus: " We of this island of
+Bensalem," (for so they call it in their language,) "have this; that
+by means of our solitary situation; and of the laws of secrecy, which
+we have for our travellers, and our rare admission of strangers; we
+know well most part of the habitable world, and are ourselves unknown.
+Therefore because he that knoweth least is fittest to ask questions,
+it is more reason, for the entertainment of the time, that ye ask me
+questions, than that I ask you."</p>
+<p>We answered; "That we humbly thanked him that he would give us leave
+so to do: and that we conceived by the taste we had already, that
+there was no worldly thing on earth, more worthy to be known than the
+state of that happy land. But above all," (we said,) "since that we
+were met from the several ends of the world, and hoped assuredly that
+we should meet one day in the kingdom of Heaven, (for that we were
+both parts Christians,) we desired to know, (in respect that land was
+so remote, and so divided by vast and unknown seas, from the land
+where our Saviour walked on earth,) who was the apostle of that nation,
+and how it was converted to the faith?" It appeared in his face that
+he took great contentment in this our question: he said; "Ye knit my
+heart to you, by asking this question in the first place; for it
+sheweth that you first seek the kingdom of heaven; and I shall gladly,
+and briefly, satisfy your demand.</p>
+<p>"About twenty years after the ascension of our Saviour, it came to
+pass, that there was seen by the people of Renfusa, (a city upon the
+eastern coast of our island,) within night, (the night was cloudy, and
+calm,) as it might be some mile into the sea, a great pillar of light;
+not sharp, but in form of a column, or cylinder, rising from the sea a
+great way up towards heaven; and on the top of it was seen a large
+cross of light, more bright and resplendent than the body of the
+pillar. Upon which so strange a spectacle, the people of the city
+gathered apace together upon the sands, to wonder; and so after put
+themselves into a number of small boats, to go nearer to this
+marvellous sight. But when the boats were come within (about) sixty
+yards of the pillar, they found themselves all bound, and could go no
+further; yet so as they might move to go about, but might not approach
+nearer: so as the boats stood all as in a theatre, beholding this
+light as an heavenly sign. It so fell out, that there was in one of
+the boats one of the wise men, of the society of Salomon's House;
+which house, or college (my good brethren) is the very eye of this
+kingdom; who having awhile attentively and devoutly viewed and
+contemplated this pillar and cross, fell down upon his face; and then
+raised himself upon his knees, and lifting up his hands to heaven,
+made his prayers in this manner.</p>
+<blockquote>
+"'LORD God of heaven and earth, thou hast vouchsafed of thy grace to
+those of our order, to know thy works of Creation, and the secrets of
+them: and to discern (as far as appertaineth to the generations of
+men) between divine miracles, works of nature, works of art, and
+impostures and illusions of all sorts. I do here acknowledge and
+testify before this people, that the thing which we now see before our
+eyes is thy Finger and a true Miracle. And forasmuch as we learn in
+our books that thou never workest miracles, but to divine and
+excellent end, (for the laws of nature are thine own laws, and thou
+exceedest them not but upon great cause,) we most humbly beseech thee
+to prosper this great sign, and to give us the interpretation and use
+of it in mercy; which thou dost in some part secretly promise by
+sending it unto us.'
+</blockquote>
+<p>"When he had made his prayer, he presently found the boat he was in,
+moveable and unbound; whereas all the rest remained still fast; and
+taking that for an assurance of leave to approach, he caused the boat
+to be softly and with silence rowed towards the pillar. But ere he
+came near it, the pillar and cross of light brake up, and cast itself
+abroad, as it were, into a firmament of many stars; which also
+vanished soon after, and there was nothing left to be seen, but a
+small ark, or chest of cedar, dry, and not wet at all with water,
+though it swam. And in the fore-end of it, which was towards him,
+grew a small green branch of palm; and when the wise man had taken it,
+with all reverence, into his boat, it opened of itself, and there were
+found in it a Book and a Letter; both written in fine parchment, and
+wrapped in sindons of linen. The Book contained all the canonical
+books of the Old and New Testament, according as you have them; (for
+we know well what the churches with you receive); and the Apocalypse
+itself, and some other books of the New Testament, which were not at
+that time written, were nevertheless in the Book. And for the Letter,
+it was in these words:</p>
+<blockquote>
+"'I, Bartholomew, a servant of the Highest, and Apostle of Jesus
+Christ, was warned by an angel that appeareth to me, in a vision of
+glory, that I should commit this ark to the floods of the sea.
+Therefore I do testify and declare unto that people where God shall
+ordain this ark to come to land, that in the same day is come unto
+them salvation and peace and good-will, from the Father, and from the
+Lord Jesus.'
+</blockquote>
+<p>"There was also in both these writings, as well the Book, as the
+Letter, wrought a great miracle, conform to that of the Apostles, in
+the original Gift of Tongues. For there being at that time in this
+land Hebrews, Persians, and Indians, besides the natives, every one
+read upon the Book, and Letter, as if they had been written in his own
+language. And thus was this land saved from infidelity (as the
+remainder of the old world was from water) by an ark, through the
+apostolical and miraculous evangelism of Saint Bartholomew." And here
+he paused, and a messenger came, and called him from us. So this was
+all that passed in that conference.</p>
+<p>The next day, the same governor came again to us, immediately after
+dinner, and excused himself, saying; "That the day before he was
+called from us, somewhat abruptly, but now he would make us amends,
+and spend time with us if we held his company and conference agreeable."
+We answered, "That we held it so agreeable and pleasing to us, as
+we forgot both dangers past and fears to come, for the time we hear
+him speak; and that we thought an hour spent with him, was worth years
+of our former life." He bowed himself a little to us, and after we
+were set again, he said; "Well, the questions are on your part."</p>
+<p>One of our number said, after a little pause; that there was a matter,
+we were no less desirous to know, than fearful to ask, lest we might
+presume too far. But encouraged by his rare humanity towards us,
+(that could scarce think ourselves strangers, being his vowed and
+professed servants,) we would take the hardiness to propound it:
+humbly beseeching him, if he thought it not fit to be answered, that
+he would pardon it, though he rejected it. We said; "We well observed
+those his words, which he formerly spake, that this happy island,
+where we now stood, was known to few, and yet knew most of the nations
+of the world; which we found to be true, considering they had the
+languages of Europe, and knew much of our state and business; and yet
+we in Europe, (notwithstanding all the remote discoveries and
+navigations of this last age), never heard of the least inkling or
+glimpse of this island. This we found wonderful strange; for that all
+nations have inter-knowledge one of another, either by voyage into
+foreign parts, or by strangers that come to them: and though the
+traveller into a foreign country, doth commonly know more by the eye,
+than he that stayeth at home can by relation of the traveller; yet
+both ways suffice to make a mutual knowledge, in some degree, on both
+parts. But for this island, we never heard tell of any ship of theirs
+that had been seen to arrive upon any shore of Europe; nor of either
+the East or West Indies; nor yet of any ship of any other part of the
+world, that had made return from them. And yet the marvel rested not
+in this. For the situation of it (as his lordship said) in the secret
+conclave of such a vast sea might cause it. But then, that they
+should have knowledge of the languages, books, affairs, of those that
+lie such a distance from them, it was a thing we could not tell what
+to make of; for that it seemed to us a conditioner and propriety of
+divine powers and beings, to be hidden and unseen to others, and yet
+to have others open and as in a light to them."</p>
+<p>At this speech the Governor gave a gracious smile, and said; "That we
+did well to ask pardon for this question we now asked: for that it
+imported, as if we thought this land, a land of magicians, that sent
+forth spirits of the air into all parts, to bring them news and
+intelligence of other countries." It was answered by us all, in all
+possible humbleness, but yet with a countenance taking knowledge, that
+we knew that he spake it but merrily, "That we were apt enough to
+think there was somewhat supernatural in this island; but yet rather
+as angelical than magical. But to let his lordship know truly what it
+was that made us tender and doubtful to ask this question, it was not
+any such conceit," but because we remembered, he had given a touch in
+his former speech, that this land had laws of secrecy touching
+strangers." To this he said; "You remember it aright and therefore in
+that I shall say to you, I must reserve some particulars, which it is
+not lawful for me to reveal; but there will be enough left, to give
+you satisfaction.</p>
+<p>"You shall understand (that which perhaps you will scarce think
+credible) that about three thousand years ago, or somewhat more, the
+navigation of the world, (especially for remote voyages,) was greater
+than at this day. Do not think with yourselves, that I know not how
+much it is increased with you, within these six-score years: I know it
+well: and yet I say greater then than now; whether it was, that the
+example of the ark, that saved the remnant of men from the universal
+deluge, gave men confidence to adventure upon the waters; or what it
+was; but such is the truth. The Phoenicians, and especially the
+Tyrians, had great fleets. So had the Carthaginians their colony,
+which is yet further west. Toward the east the shipping of Egypt and
+of Palestine was likewise great. China also, and the great Atlantis,
+(that you call America,) which have now but junks and canoes, abounded
+then in tall ships. This island, (as appeareth by faithful registers
+of those times,) had then fifteen hundred strong ships, of great
+content. Of all this, there is with you sparing memory, or none; but
+we have large knowledge thereof.</p>
+<p>"At that time, this land was known and frequented by the ships and
+vessels of all the nations before named. And (as it cometh to pass)
+they had many times men of other countries, that were no sailors, that
+came with them; as Persians, Chaldeans, Arabians; so as almost all
+nations of might and fame resorted hither; of whom we have some stirps,
+and little tribes with us at this day. And for our own ships, they
+went sundry voyages, as well to your straits, which you call the
+Pillars of Hercules, as to other parts in the Atlantic and Mediterrane
+Seas; as to Paguin, (which is the same with Cambaline,) and Quinzy,
+upon the Oriental Seas, as far as to the borders of the East Tartary.</p>
+<p>"At the same time, and an age after, or more, the inhabitants of the
+great Atlantis did flourish. For though the narration and description,
+which is made by a great man with you; that the descendants of
+Neptune planted there; and of the magnificent temple, palace, city,
+and hill; and the manifold streams of goodly navigable rivers, (which
+as so many chains environed the same site and temple); and the several
+degrees of ascent, whereby men did climb up to the same, as if it had
+been a <i>scala coeli</i>, be all poetical and fabulous: yet so much is true,
+that the said country of Atlantis, as well that of Peru, then called
+Coya, as that of Mexico, then named Tyrambel, were mighty and proud
+kingdoms in arms, shipping and riches: so mighty, as at one time (or
+at least within the space of ten years) they both made two great
+expeditions; they of Tyrambel through the Atlantic to the Mediterrane
+Sea; and they of Coya through the South Sea upon this our island: and
+for the former of these, which was into Europe, the same author
+amongst you (as it seemeth) had some relation from the Egyptian priest
+whom he cited. For assuredly such a thing there was. But whether it
+were the ancient Athenians that had the glory of the repulse and
+resistance of those forces, I can say nothing: but certain it is,
+there never came back either ship or man from that voyage. Neither
+had the other voyage of those of Coya upon us had better fortune, if
+they had not met with enemies of greater clemency. For the king of
+this island, (by name Altabin,) a wise man and a great warrior,
+knowing well both his own strength and that of his enemies, handled
+the matter so, as he cut off their land-forces from their ships; and
+entoiled both their navy and their tamp with a greater power than
+theirs, both by sea and land: arid compelled them to render themselves
+without striking stroke and after they were at his mercy, contenting
+himself only with their oath that they should no more bear arms
+against him, dismissed them all in safety.</p>
+<p>"But the divine revenge overtook not long after those proud
+enterprises. For within less than the space of one hundred years, the
+great Atlantis was utterly lost and destroyed: not by a great
+earthquake, as your man saith; (for that whole tract is little subject
+to earthquakes;) but by a particular' deluge or inundation; those
+countries having, at this day, far greater rivers and far higher
+mountains to pour down waters, than any part of the old world. But it
+is true that the same inundation was not deep; not past forty foot, in
+most places, from the ground; so that although it destroyed man and
+beast generally, yet some few wild inhabitants of the wood escaped.
+Birds also were saved by flying to the high trees and woods. For as
+for men, although they had buildings in many places, higher than the
+depth of the water, yet that inundation, though it were shallow, had a
+long continuance; whereby they of the vale that were not drowned,
+perished for want of food and other things necessary.</p>
+<p>"So as marvel you not at the thin population of America, nor at the
+rudeness and ignorance of the people; for you must account your
+inhabitants of America as a young people; younger a thousand years, at
+the least, than the rest of the world: for that there was so much time
+between the universal flood and their particular inundation. For the
+poor remnant of human seed, which remained in their mountains, peopled
+the country again slowly, by little and little; and being simple and
+savage people, (not like Noah and his sons, which was the chief family
+of the earth;) they were not able to leave letters, arts, and civility
+to their posterity; and having likewise in their mountainous
+habitations been used (in respect of the extreme cold of those
+regions) to clothe themselves with the skins of tigers, bears, and
+great hairy goats, that they have in those parts; when after they came
+down into the valley, and found the intolerable heats which are there,
+and knew no means of lighter apparel, they were forced to begin the
+custom of going naked, which continueth at this day. Only they take
+great pride and delight in the feathers of birds; and this also they
+took from those their ancestors of the mountains, who were invited
+unto it by the infinite flights of birds that came up to the high
+grounds, while the waters stood below. So you see, by this main
+accident of time, we lost our traffic with the Americans, with whom of,
+all others, in regard they lay nearest to us, we had most commerce.</p>
+<p>"As for the other parts of the world, it is most manifest that in the
+ages following (whether it were in respect of wars, or by a natural
+revolution of time,) navigation did every where greatly decay; and
+specially far voyages (the rather by the use of galleys, and such
+vessels as could hardly brook the ocean,) were altogether left and
+omitted. So then, that part of intercourse which could be from other
+nations to sail to us, you see how it hath long since ceased; except
+it were by some rare accident, as this of yours. But now of the
+cessation of that other part of intercourse, which might be by our
+sailing to other nations, I must yield you some other cause. For I
+cannot say (if I shall say truly,) but our shipping, for number,
+strength, mariners, pilots, and all things that appertain to
+navigation, is as great as ever; and therefore why we should sit at
+home, I shall now give you an account by itself: and it will draw
+nearer to give you satisfaction to your principal question.</p>
+<p>"There reigned in this land, about nineteen hundred years ago, a king,
+whose memory of all others we most adore; not superstitiously, but as
+a divine instrument, though a mortal man; his name was Solamona: and
+we esteem him as the lawgiver of our nation. This king had a large
+heart, inscrutable for good; and was wholly bent to make his kingdom
+and people happy. He therefore, taking into consideration how
+sufficient and substantive this land was to maintain itself without
+any aid (at all) of the foreigner; being five thousand six hundred
+miles in circuit, and of rare fertility of soil in the greatest part
+thereof; and finding also the shipping of this country might be
+plentifully set on work, both by fishing and by transportations from
+port to port, and likewise by sailing unto some small islands that are
+not far from us, and are under the crown and laws of this state; and,
+recalling into his memory the happy and flourishing estate wherein
+this land then was; so as it might be a thousand ways altered to the
+worse, but scarce any one way to the better; thought nothing wanted to
+his noble and heroical intentions, but only (as far as human foresight
+might reach) to give perpetuity to that which was in his time so
+happily established. Therefore amongst his other fundamental laws of
+this kingdom, he did ordain the interdicts and prohibitions which we
+have touching entrance of strangers; which at that time (though it was
+after the calamity of America) was frequent; doubting novelties, and
+commixture of manners. It is true, the like law against the admission
+of strangers without licence is an ancient law in the kingdom of China,
+and yet continued in use. But there it is a poor thing; and hath
+made them a curious, ignorant, fearful, foolish nation. But our
+lawgiver made his law of another temper. For first, he hath preserved
+all points of humanity, in taking order and making provision for the
+relief of strangers distressed; whereof you have tasted."</p>
+<p>At which speech (as reason was) we all rose up and bowed ourselves.
+He went on.</p>
+<p>"That king also, still desiring to join humanity and policy together;
+and thinking it against humanity, to detain strangers here against
+their wills, and against policy that they should return and discover
+their knowledge of this estate, he took this course: he did ordain
+that of the strangers that should be permitted to land, as many (at
+all times) might depart as would; but as many as would stay should
+have very good conditions and means to live from the state. Wherein
+he saw so far, that now in so many ages since the prohibition, we have
+memory not of one ship that ever returned, and but of thirteen persons
+only, at several times, that chose to return in our bottoms. What
+those few that returned may have reported abroad I know not. But you
+must think, whatsoever they have said could be taken where they came
+but for a dream. Now for our travelling from henna into parts abroad,
+our Lawgiver thought fit altogether to restrain it. So is it not in
+China. For the Chinese sail where they will or can; which sheweth
+that their law of keeping out strangers is a law of pusillanimity and
+fear. But this restraint of ours hath one only exception, which is
+admirable; preserving the good which cometh by communicating with
+strangers, and avoiding the hurt; and I will now open it to you. And
+here I shall seem a little to digress, but you will by and by find it
+pertinent.</p>
+<p>"Ye shall understand (my dear friends) that amongst the excellent acts
+of that king, one above all hath the pre-eminence. It was the
+erection and institution of an Order or Society, which we call
+Salomon's House; the noblest foundation (as we think) that ever was
+upon the earth; and the lanthorn of this kingdom. It is dedicated to
+the study of the works and creatures of God. Some think it beareth
+the founder's name a little corrupted, as if it should be Solamona's
+House. But the records write it as it is spoken. So as I take it to
+be denominate of the king of the Hebrews, which is famous with you,
+and no stranger to us. For we have some parts of his works, which
+with you are lost; namely, that natural history, which he wrote, of
+all plants, from the cedar of Libanus to the moss that groweth out of
+the wall, and of all things that have life and motion. This maketh me
+think that our king, finding himself to symbolize in many things with
+that king of the Hebrews (which lived many years before him), honored
+him with the title of this foundation. And I am rather induced to be
+of this opinion, for that I find in ancient records this Order or
+Society is sometimes called Salomon's House, and sometimes the College
+of the Six Days Works; whereby I am satisfied that our excellent king
+had learned from the Hebrews that God had created the world and all
+that therein is within six days: and therefore he instituting that
+House for the finding out of the true nature of all things, (whereby
+God might have the more glory in the workmanship of them, and insert
+the more fruit in the use of them), did give it also that second name.</p>
+<p>"But now to come to our present purpose. When the king had forbidden
+to all his people navigation into any part that was not under his
+crown, he made nevertheless this ordinance; that every twelve years
+there should be set forth, out of this kingdom two ships, appointed to
+several voyages; That in either of these ships there should be a
+mission of three of the Fellows or Brethren of Salomon's House; whose
+errand was only to give us knowledge of the affairs and state of those
+countries to which they were designed, and especially of the sciences,
+arts, manufactures, and inventions of all the world; and withal to
+bring unto us books, instruments, and patterns in every kind: That the
+ships, after they had landed the brethren, should return; and that the
+brethren should stay abroad till the new mission. These ships are not
+otherwise fraught, than with store of victuals, and good quantity of
+treasure to remain with the brethren, for the buying of such things
+and rewarding of such persons as they should think fit. Now for me to
+tell you how the vulgar sort of mariners are contained from being
+discovered at land; and how they that must be put on shore for any
+time, color themselves under the names of other nations; and to what
+places these voyages have been designed; and what places of rendezvous
+are appointed for the new missions; and the like circumstances of the
+practique; I may not do it: neither is it much to your desire. But
+thus you see we maintain a trade not for gold, silver, or jewels; nor
+for silks; nor for spices; nor any other commodity of matter; but only
+for God's first creature, which was Light: to have light (I say) of
+the growth of all parts of the world."</p>
+<p>And when he had said this, he was silent; and so were we all. For
+indeed we were all astonished to hear so strange things so probably
+told. And he, perceiving that we were willing to say somewhat but had
+it not ready in great courtesy took us off, and descended to ask us
+questions of our voyage and fortunes and in the end concluded, that we
+might do well to think with ourselves what time of stay we would
+demand of the state; and bade us not to scant ourselves; for he would
+procure such time as we desired: Whereupon we all rose up, and
+presented ourselves to kiss the skirt of his tippet; but he would not
+suffer us; and so took his leave. But when it came once amongst our
+people that the state used to offer conditions to strangers that would
+stay, we had work enough to get any of our men to look to our ship;
+and to keep them from going presently to the governor to crave
+conditions. But with much ado we refrained them, till we might agree
+what course to take.</p>
+<p>We took ourselves now for free men, seeing there was no danger of our
+utter perdition; and lived most joyfully, going abroad and seeing what
+was to be seen in the city and places adjacent within our tedder; and
+obtaining acquaintance with many of the city, not of the meanest
+quality; at whose hands we found such humanity, and such a freedom and
+desire to take strangers as it were into their bosom, as was enough to
+make us forget all that was dear to us in our own countries: and
+continually we met with many things right worthy of observation and
+relation: as indeed, if there be a mirror in the world worthy to hold
+men's eyes, it is that country.</p>
+<p>One day there were two of our company bidden to a Feast of the Family,
+as they call it. A most natural, pious, and reverend custom it is,
+shewing that nation to be compounded of all goodness. This is the
+manner of it. It is granted to any man that shall live to see thirty
+persons descended of his body alive together, and all above three
+years old, to make this feast which is done at the cost of the state.
+The Father of the Family, whom they call the Tirsan, two days before
+the feast, taketh to him three of such friends as he liketh to choose;
+and is assisted also by the governor of the city or place where the
+feast is celebrated; and all the persons of the family, of both sexes,
+are summoned to attend him. These two days the Tirsan sitteth in
+consultation concerning the good estate of the family. There, if
+there be any discord or suits between any of the family, they are
+compounded and appeased. There, if any of the family be distressed or
+decayed, order is taken for their relief and competent means to live.
+There, if any be subject to vice, or take ill courses, they are
+reproved and censured. So likewise direction is given touching
+marriages, and the courses of life, which any of them should take,
+with divers other the like orders and advices. The governor assisteth,
+to the end to put in execution by his public authority the decrees
+and orders of the Tirsan, if they should be disobeyed; though that
+seldom needeth; such reverence and obedience they give to the order of
+nature. The Tirsan doth also then ever choose one man from among his
+sons, to live in house with him; who is called ever after the Son of
+the Vine. The reason will hereafter appear.</p>
+<p>On the feast day, the father or Tirsan cometh forth after divine
+service into a large room where the feast is celebrated; which room
+hath an half-pace at the upper end. Against the wall, in the middle
+of the half-pace, is a chair placed for him, with a table and carpet
+before it. Over the chair is a state, made round or oval, and it is
+of ivy; an ivy somewhat whiter than ours, like the leaf of a silver
+asp; but more shining; for it is green all winter. And the state is
+curiously wrought with silver and silk of divers colors, broiding or
+binding in the ivy; and is ever of the work of some of the daughters
+of the family; and veiled over at the top with a fine net of silk and
+silver. But the substance of it is true ivy; whereof, after it is
+taken down, the friends of the family are desirous to have some leaf
+or sprig to keep.</p>
+<p>The Tirsan cometh forth with all his generation or linage, the males
+before him, and the females following him; and if there be a mother
+from whose body the whole linage is descended, there is a traverse
+placed in a loft above on the right hand of the chair, with a privy
+door, and a carved window of glass, leaded with gold and blue; where
+she sitteth, but is not seen. When the Tirsan is come forth, he
+sitteth down in the chair; and all the linage place themselves against
+the wall, both at his back and upon the return of the half-pace, in
+order of their years without difference of sex; and stand upon their
+feet. When he is set; the room being always full of company, but well
+kept and without disorder; after some pause, there cometh in from the
+lower end of the room, a taratan (which is as much as an herald) and
+on either side of him two young lads; whereof one carrieth a scroll of
+their shining yellow parchment; and the other a cluster of grapes of
+gold, with a long foot or stalk. The herald and children are clothed
+with mantles of sea-water green satin; but the herald's mantle is
+streamed with gold, and hath a train.</p>
+<p>Then the herald with three curtesies, or rather inclinations, cometh
+up as far as the half-pace; and there first taketh into his hand the
+scroll. This scroll is the king's charter, containing gifts of
+revenew, and many privileges, exemptions, and points of honour,
+granted to the Father of the Family; and is ever styled and directed,
+To such do one our well beloved friend and creditor: which is a title
+proper only to this case. For they say the king is debtor to no man,
+but for propagation of his subjects. The seal set to the king's
+charter is the king's image, imbossed or moulded in gold; and though
+such charters be expedited of course, and as of right, yet they are
+varied by discretion, according to the number and dignity of the
+family. This charter the herald readeth aloud; and while it is read,
+the father or Tirsan standeth up supported by two of his sons, such as
+he chooseth. Then the herald mounteth the half-pace and delivereth
+the charter into his hand: and with that there is an acclamation by
+all that are present in their language, which is thus much: Happy are
+the people of Bensalem.</p>
+<p>Then the herald taketh into his hand from the other child the cluster
+of grapes, which is of gold, both the stalk and the grapes. But the
+grapes are daintily enamelled; and if the males of the family be the
+greater number, the grapes are enamelled purple, with a little sun set
+on the top; if the females, then they are enamelled into a greenish
+yellow, with a crescent on the top. The grapes are in number as many
+as there are descendants of the family. This golden cluster the
+herald delivereth also to the Tirsan; who presently delivereth it over
+to that son that he had formerly chosen to be in house with him: who
+beareth it before his father as an ensign of honour when he goeth in
+public, ever after; and is thereupon called the Son of the Vine.</p>
+<p>After the ceremony endeth the father or Tirsan retireth; and after
+some time cometh forth again to dinner, where he sitteth alone under
+the state, as before; and none of his descendants sit with him, of
+what degree or dignity soever, except he hap to be of Salomon's House.
+He is served only by his own children, such as are male; who perform
+unto him all service of the table upon the knee; and the women only
+stand about him, leaning against the wall. The room below the
+half-pace hath tables on the sides for the guests that are bidden; who
+are served with great and comely order; and towards the end of dinner
+(which in the greatest feasts with them lasteth never above an hour
+and an half) there is an hymn sung, varied according to the invention
+of him that composeth it (for they have excellent posy) but the
+subject of it is (always) the praises of Adam and Noah and Abraham;
+whereof the former two peopled the world, and the last was the Father
+of the Faithful: concluding ever with a thanksgiving for the nativity
+of our Saviour, in whose birth the births of all are only blessed.</p>
+<p>Dinner being done, the Tirsan retireth again; and having withdrawn
+himself alone into a place, where he makes some private prayers, he
+cometh forth the third time, to give the blessing with all his
+descendants, who stand about him as at the first. Then he calleth
+them forth by one and by one, by name, as he pleaseth, though seldom
+the order of age be inverted. The person that is called (the table
+being before removed) kneeleth down before the chair, and the father
+layeth his hand upon his head, or her head, and giveth the blessing in
+these words:</p>
+<blockquote>
+Son of Bensalem, (or daughter of Bensalem,) thy father
+with it: the man by whom thou hast breath and life speaketh the word:
+the blessing of the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace, and the
+Holy Dove, be upon thee, and make the days of thy pilgrimage good and
+many.
+</blockquote>
+<p>This he saith to every of them; and that done, if there be any
+of his sons of eminent merit and virtue, (so they be not above two,)
+he calleth for them again; and saith, laying his arm over their
+shoulders, they standing:</p>
+<blockquote>
+Sons, it is well ye are born, give God the
+praise, and persevere to the end.
+</blockquote>
+<p>And withall delivereth to either of
+them a jewel, made in the figure of an ear of wheat, which they ever
+after wear in the front of their turban or hat. This done, they fall
+to music and dances, and other recreations, after their manner, for
+the rest of the day. This is the full order of that feast.</p>
+<p>By that time six or seven days were spent, I was fallen into straight
+acquaintance with a merchant of that city, whose name was Joabin. He
+was a Jew and circumcised: for they have some few stirps of Jews yet
+remaining among them, whom they leave to their own religion. Which
+they may the better do, because they are of a far differing
+disposition from the Jews in other parts. For whereas they hate the
+name of Christ; and have a secret inbred rancour against the people
+among whom they live: these (contrariwise) give unto our Saviour many
+high attributes, and love the nation of Bensalem extremely. Surely
+this man of whom I speak would ever acknowledge that Christ was born
+of a virgin and that he was more than a man; and he would tell how God
+made him ruler of the seraphims which guard his throne; and they call
+him also the Milken Way, and the Eliah of the Messiah; and many other
+high names; which though they be inferior to his divine majesty, yet
+they are far from the language of other Jews.</p>
+<p>And for the country of Bensalem, this man would make no end of
+commending it; being desirous, by tradition among the Jews there, to
+have it believed that the people thereof were of the generations of
+Abraham, by another son, whom they call Nachoran; and that Moses by a
+secret Cabala ordained the Laws of Bensalem which they now use; and
+that when the Messiah should come, and sit in his throne at Hierusalem,
+the king of Bensalem should sit at his feet, whereas other kings
+should keep a great distance. But yet setting aside these Jewish
+dreams, the man was a wise man, and learned, and of great policy, and
+excellently seen in the laws and customs of that nation.</p>
+<p>Amongst other discourses, one day I told him I was much affected with
+the relation I had, from some of the company, of their custom, in
+holding the Feast of the Family; for that (methought) I had never
+heard of a solemnity wherein nature did so much preside. And because
+propagation of families proceedeth from the nuptial copulation, I
+desired to know of him what laws and customs they had concerning
+marriage; and whether they kept marriage well and whether they were
+tied to one wife; for that where population is so much affected,' and
+such as with them it seemed to be, there is commonly permission of
+plurality of wives.</p>
+<p>To this he said, "You have reason for to commend that excellent
+institution of the Feast of the Family. And indeed we have experience
+that those families that are partakers of the blessing of that feast
+do flourish and prosper ever after in an extraordinary manner. But
+hear me now, and I will tell you what I know. You shall understand
+that there is not under the heavens so chaste a nation as this of
+Bensalem; nor so free from all pollution or foulness. It is the
+virgin of the world. I remember I have read in one of your European
+books, of an holy hermit amongst you that desired to see the Spirit of
+Fornication; and there appeared to him a little foul ugly &AElig;thiop.
+But if he had desired to see the Spirit of Chastity of Bensalem, it
+would have appeared to him in the likeness of a fair beautiful
+Cherubim. For there is nothing amongst mortal men more fair and
+admirable, than the chaste minds of this people. Know therefore, that
+with them there are no stews, no dissolute houses, no courtesans, nor
+anything of that kind. Nay they wonder (with detestation) at you in
+Europe, which permit such things. They say ye have put marriage out
+of office: for marriage is ordained a remedy for unlawful
+concupiscence; and natural concupiscence seemeth as a spar to marriage.
+But when men have at hand a remedy more agreeable to their corrupt
+will, marriage is almost expulsed. And therefore there are with you
+seen infinite men that marry not, but chose rather a libertine and
+impure single life, than to be yoked in marriage; and many that do
+marry, marry late, when the prime and strength of their years is past.
+And when they do marry, what is marriage to them but a very bargain;
+wherein is sought alliance, or portion, or reputation, with some
+desire (almost indifferent) of issue; and not the faithful nuptial
+union of man and wife, that was first instituted. Neither is it
+possible that those that have cast away so basely so much of their
+strength, should greatly esteem children, (being of the same matter,)
+as chaste men do. So likewise during marriage, is the case much
+amended, as it ought to be if those things were tolerated only for
+necessity? No, but they remain still as a very affront to marriage.
+The haunting of those dissolute places, or resort to courtesans, are
+no more punished in married men than in bachelors. And the depraved
+custom of change, and the delight in meretricious embracements, (where
+sin is turned into art,) maketh marriage a dull thing, and a kind of
+imposition or tax. They hear you defend these things, as done to
+avoid greater evils; as advoutries, deflowering of virgins, unnatural
+lust, and the like. But they say this is a preposterous wisdom; and
+they call it Lot's offer, who to save his guests from abusing, offered
+his daughters: nay they say farther that there is little gained in
+this; for that the same vices and appetites do still remain and abound;
+unlawful lust being like a furnace, that if you stop the flames
+altogether, it will quench; but if you give it any vent, it will rage.
+As for masculine love, they have no touch of it; and yet there are
+not so faithful and inviolate friendships in the world again as are
+there; and to speak generally, (as I said before,) I have not read of
+any such chastity, in any people as theirs. And their usual saying is,
+That whosoever is unchaste cannot reverence himself; and they say,
+That the reverence of a man's self, is, next to religion, the chiefest
+bridle of all vices."</p>
+<p>And when he had said this, the good Jew paused a little; whereupon I,
+far more willing to hear him speak on than to speak myself, yet
+thinking it decent that upon his pause of speech I should not be
+altogether silent, said only this; "That I would say to him, as the
+widow of Sarepta said to Elias; that he was come to bring to memory
+our sins; and that I confess the righteousness of Bensalem was greater
+than the righteousness of Europe." At which speech he bowed his head,
+and went on in this manner:</p>
+<p>"They have also many wise and excellent laws touching marriage. They
+allow no polygamy. They have ordained that none do intermarry or
+contract, until a month be past from their first interview. Marriage
+without consent of parents they do not make void, but they mulct it
+in the inheritors: for the children of such marriages are not admitted
+to inherit above a third part of their parents' inheritance. I have
+read in a book of one of your men, of a Feigned Commonwealth, where
+the married couple are permitted, before they contract, to see one
+another naked. This they dislike; for they think it a scorn to give a
+refusal after so familiar knowledge: but because of many hidden
+defects in men and women's bodies, they have a more civil way; for
+they have near every town a couple of pools, (which they call Adam and
+Eve's pools,) where it is permitted to one of the friends of the men,
+and another of the friends of the woman, to see them severally bathe
+naked."</p>
+<p>And as we were thus in conference, there came one that seemed to be a
+messenger, in a rich huke, that spake with the Jew: whereupon he
+turned to me and said; "You will pardon me, for I am commanded away in
+haste." The next morning he came to me again, joyful as it seemed,
+and said; "There is word come to the Governor of the city, that one of
+the Fathers of Salomon's House will be here this day seven-night: we
+have seen none of them this dozen years. His coming is in state; but
+the cause of his coming is secret. I will provide you and your
+fellows of a good standing to see his entry." I thanked him, and told
+him, I was most glad of the news.</p>
+<p>The day being come, he made his entry. He was a man of middle stature
+and age, comely of person, and had an aspect as if he pitied men. He
+was clothed in a robe of fine black cloth, with wide sleeves and a
+cape. His under garment was of excellent white linen down to the foot,
+girt with a girdle of the same; and a sindon or tippet of the same
+about his neck. He had gloves, that were curious, and set with
+stone; and shoes of peach-coloured velvet. His neck was bare to the
+shoulders. His hat was like a helmet, or Spanish montera; and his
+locks curled below it decently: they were of colour brown. His beard
+was cut round, and of the same colour with his hair, somewhat lighter.
+He was carried in a rich chariot without wheels, litter-wise; with
+two horses at either end, richly trapped in blue velvet embroidered;
+and two footmen on each side in the like attire. The chariot was all
+of cedar, gilt, and adorned with crystal; save that the fore-end had
+panels of sapphires, set in borders of gold; and the hinder-end the
+like of emeralds of the Peru colour. There was also a sun of gold,
+radiant, upon the top, in the midst; and on the top before, a small
+cherub of gold, with wings displayed. The chariot was covered with
+cloth of gold tissued upon blue. He had before him fifty attendants,
+young men all, in white satin loose coats to the mid leg; and
+stockings of white silk; and shoes of blue velvet; and hats of blue
+velvet; with fine plumes of diverse colours, set round like hat-bands.
+Next before the chariot, went two men, bare-headed, in linen garments
+down the foot, girt, and shoes of blue velvet; who carried, the one a
+crosier, the other a pastoral staff like a sheep-hook; neither of them
+of metal, but the crosier of balm-wood, the pastoral staff of cedar.
+Horsemen he had none, neither before nor behind his chariot: as it
+seemeth, to avoid all tumult and trouble. Behind his chariot went all
+the officers and principals of the companies of the city. He sat
+alone, upon cushions of a kind of excellent plush, blue; and under his
+foot curious carpets of silk of diverse colours, like the Persian, but
+far finer. He held up his bare hand as he went, as blessing the
+people, but in silence. The street was wonderfully well kept: so that
+there was never any army had their men stand in better battle-array
+than the people stood. The windows likewise were not crowded, but
+every one stood in them as if they had been placed.</p>
+<p>When the shew was past, the Jew said to me; "I shall not be able to
+attend you as I would, in regard of some charge the city hath laid
+upon me, for the entertaining of this great person." Three days after
+the Jew came to me again, and said; "Ye are happy men; for the Father
+of Salomon's House taketh knowledge of your being here, and commanded
+me to tell you that he will admit all your company to his presence,
+and have private conference with one of you, that ye shall choose: and
+for this hath appointed the next day after to-morrow. And because he
+meaneth to give you his blessing, he hath appointed it in the forenoon."</p>
+<p>We came at our day and hour, and I was chosen by my fellows for the
+private access. We found him in a fair chamber, richly hanged, and
+carpeted under foot without any degrees to the state. He was set upon
+a low Throne richly adorned, and a rich cloth of state over his head,
+of blue satin embroidered. He was alone, save that he had two pages
+of honour, on either hand one, finely attired in white. His under
+garments were the like that we saw him wear in the chariot; but
+instead of his gown, he had on him a mantle with a cape, of the same
+fine black, fastened about him. When we came in, as we were taught,
+we bowed low at our first entrance; and when we were come near his
+chair, he stood up, holding forth his hand ungloved, and in posture of
+blessing; and we every one of us stooped down, and kissed the hem of
+his tippet. That done, the rest departed, and I remained. Then he
+warned the pages forth of the room, and caused me to sit down beside
+him, and spake to me thus in the Spanish tongue.</p>
+<p>"God bless thee, my son; I will give thee the greatest jewel I have.
+For I will impart unto thee, for the love of God and men, a relation
+of the true state of Salomon's House. Son, to make you know the true
+state of Salomon's House, I will keep this order. First, I will set
+forth unto you the end of our foundation. Secondly, the preparations
+and instruments we have for our works. Thirdly, the several
+employments and functions whereto our fellows are assigned. And
+fourthly, the ordinances and rites which we observe.</p>
+<p>"The end of our foundation is the knowledge of causes, and secret
+motions of things; and the enlarging of the bounds of human empire, to
+the effecting of all things possible.</p>
+<p>"The Preparations and Instruments are these. We have large and deep
+caves of several depths: the deepest are sunk six hundred fathom: and
+some of them are digged and made under great hills and mountains: so
+that if you reckon together the depth of the hill and the depth of the
+cave, they are (some of them) above three miles deep. For we find,
+that the depth of a hill, and the depth of a cave from the flat, is
+the same thing; both remote alike, from the sun and heaven's beams,
+and from the open air. These caves we call the Lower Region; and we
+use them for all coagulations, indurations, refrigerations, and
+conservations of bodies. We use them likewise for the imitation of
+natural mines; and the producing also of new artificial metals, by
+compositions and materials which we use, and lay there for many years.
+We use them also sometimes, (which may seem strange,) for curing of
+some diseases, and for prolongation of life in some hermits that
+choose to live there, well accommodated of all things necessary, and
+indeed live very long; by whom also we learn many things.</p>
+<p>"We have burials in several earths, where we put diverse cements, as
+the Chineses do their porcellain. But we have them in greater variety,
+and some of them more fine. We have also great variety of composts
+and soils, for the making of the earth fruitful.</p>
+<p>"We have high towers; the highest about half a mile in height; and
+some of them likewise set upon high mountains; so that the vantage of
+the hill with the tower is in the highest of them three miles at least.
+And these places we call the Upper Region; accounting the air
+between the high places and the low, as a Middle Region. We use these
+towers, according to their several heights, and situations, for
+insolation, refrigeration, conservation; and for the view of divers
+meteors; as winds, rain, snow, hail; and some of the fiery meteors
+also. And upon them, in some places, are dwellings of hermits, whom
+we visit sometimes, and instruct what to observe.</p>
+<p>"We have great lakes, both salt, and fresh; whereof we have use for
+the fish and fowl. We use them also for burials of some natural
+bodies: for we find a difference in things buried in earth or in air
+below the earth, and things buried in water. We have also pools, of
+which some do strain fresh water out of salt; and others by art do
+turn fresh water into salt. We have also some rocks in the midst of
+the sea, and some bays upon the shore for some works, wherein is
+required the air and vapor of the sea. We have likewise violent
+streams and cataracts, which serve us for many motions: and likewise
+engines for multiplying and enforcing of winds, to set also on going
+diverse motions.</p>
+<p>"We have also a number of artificial wells and fountains, made in
+imitation of the natural sources and baths; as tincted upon vitriol,
+sulphur, steel, brass, lead, nitre, and other minerals. And again we
+have little wells for infusions of many things, where the waters take
+the virtue quicker and better, than in vessels or basins. And amongst
+them we have a water which we call Water of Paradise, being, by that
+we do to it made very sovereign for health, and prolongation of life.</p>
+<p>"We have also great and spacious houses where we imitate and
+demonstrate meteors; as snow, hail, rain, some artificial rains of
+bodies and not of water, thunders, lightnings; also generations of
+bodies in air; as frogs, flies, and divers others.</p>
+<p>"We have also certain chambers, which we call Chambers of Health,
+where we qualify the air as we think good and proper for the cure of
+divers diseases, and preservation of health.</p>
+<p>"We have also fair and large baths, of several mixtures, for the cure
+of diseases, and the restoring of man's body from arefaction: and
+others for the confirming of it in strength of sinewes, vital parts,
+and the very juice and substance of the body.</p>
+<p>"We have also large and various orchards and gardens; wherein we do
+not so much respect beauty, as variety of ground and soil, proper for
+divers trees and herbs: and some very spacious, where trees and
+berries are set whereof we make divers kinds of drinks, besides the
+vineyards. In these we practise likewise all conclusions of grafting,
+and inoculating as well of wild-trees as fruit-trees, which produceth
+many effects. And we make (by art) in the same orchards and gardens,
+trees and flowers to come earlier or later than their seasons; and to
+come up and bear more speedily than by their natural course they do.
+We make them also by art greater much than their nature; and their
+fruit greater and sweeter and of differing taste, smell, colour, and
+figure, from their nature. And many of them we so order, as they
+become of medicinal use.</p>
+<p>"We have also means to make divers plants rise by mixtures of earths
+without seeds; and likewise to make divers new plants, differing from
+the vulgar; and to make one tree or plant turn into another.</p>
+<p>"We have also parks and enclosures of all sorts of beasts and birds
+which we use not only for view or rareness, but likewise for
+dissections and trials; that thereby we may take light what may be
+wrought upon the body of man. Wherein we find many strange effects;
+as continuing life in them, though divers parts, which you account
+vital, be perished and taken forth; resuscitating of some that seem
+dead in appearance; and the like. We try also all poisons and other
+medicines upon them, as well of chirurgery, as physic. By art
+likewise, we make them greater or taller than their kind is; and
+contrariwise dwarf them, and stay their growth: we make them more
+fruitful and bearing than their kind is; and contrariwise barren and
+not generative. Also we make them differ in colour, shape, activity,
+many ways. We find means to make commixtures and copulations of
+different kinds; which have produced many new kinds, and them not
+barren, as the general opinion is. We make a number of kinds of
+serpents, worms, flies, fishes, of putrefaction; whereof some are
+advanced (in effect) to be perfect creatures, like bests or birds; and
+have sexes, and do propagate. Neither do we this by chance, but we
+know beforehand, of what matter and commixture what kind of those
+creatures will arise.</p>
+<p>"We have also particular pools, where we make trials upon fishes, as
+we have said before of beasts and birds.</p>
+<p>"We have also places for breed and generation of those kinds of worms
+and flies which are of special use; such as are with you your
+silk-worms and bees.</p>
+<p>"I will not hold you long with recounting of our brewhouses,
+bake-houses, and kitchens, where are made divers drinks, breads, and
+meats, rare and of special effects. Wines we have of grapes; and
+drinks of other juice of fruits, of grains, and of roots; and of
+mixtures with honey, sugar, manna, and fruits dried, and decocted;
+Also of the tears or woundings of trees; and of the pulp of canes.
+And these drinks are of several ages, some to the age or last of forty
+years. We have drinks also brewed with several herbs, and roots, and
+spices; yea with several fleshes, and white-meats; whereof some of the
+drinks are such, as they are in effect meat and drink both: so that
+divers, especially in age, do desire to live with them, with little or
+no meat or bread. And above all, we strive to have drink of extreme
+thin parts, to insinuate into the body, and yet without all biting,
+sharpness, or fretting; insomuch as some of them put upon the back of
+your hand will, with a little stay, pass through to the palm, and yet
+taste mild to the mouth. We have also waters which we ripen in that
+fashion, as they become nourishing; so that they are indeed excellent
+drink; and.many will use no other. Breads we have of several grains,
+roots, and kernels; yea and some of flesh and fish dried; with divers
+kinds of leavenings and seasonings: so that some do extremely move
+appetites; some do nourish so, as divers do live of them, without any
+other meat; who live very long. So for meats, we have some of them so
+beaten and made tender and mortified,' yet without all corrupting, as
+a weak heat of the stomach will turn them into good chylus; as well as
+a strong heat would meat otherwise prepared. We have some meats also
+and breads and drinks, which taken by men enable them to fast long
+after; and some other, that used make the very flesh of men's bodies
+sensibly' more hard and tough and their strength far greater than
+otherwise it would be.</p>
+<p>"We have dispensatories, or shops of medicines. Wherein you may
+easily think, if we have such variety of plants and living creatures
+more than you have in Europe, (for we know what you have,) the simples,
+drugs, and ingredients of medicines, must likewise be in so much the
+greater variety. We have them likewise of divers ages, and long
+fermentations. And for their preparations, we have not only all
+manner of exquisite distillations and separations, and especially by
+gentle heats and percolations through divers strainers, yea and
+substances; but also exact forms of composition, whereby they
+incorporate almost, as they were natural simples.</p>
+<p>"We have also divers mechanical arts, which you have not; and stuffs
+made by them; as papers, linen, silks, tissues; dainty works of
+feathers of wonderful lustre; excellent dies, and, many others; and
+shops likewise, as well for such as are not brought into vulgar use
+amongst us as for those that are. For you must know that of the
+things before recited, many of them are grown into use throughout the
+kingdom; but yet, if they did flow from our invention, we have of them
+also for patterns and principals.</p>
+<p>"We have also furnaces of great diversities, and that keep great
+diversity of heats; fierce and quick; strong and constant; soft and
+mild; blown, quiet; dry, moist; and the like. But above all, we have
+heats, in imitation of the Sun's and heavenly bodies' heats, that pass
+divers inequalities, and (as it were) orbs, progresses, and returns,
+whereby we produce admirable effects. Besides, we have heats of dungs;
+and of bellies and maws of living creatures, and of their bloods and
+bodies; and of hays and herbs laid up moist; of lime unquenched; and
+such like. Instruments also which generate heat only by motion. And
+farther, places for strong insulations; and again, places under the
+earth, which by nature, or art, yield heat. These divers heats we use,
+as the nature of the operation, which we intend, requireth.</p>
+<p>"We have also perspective-houses, where we make demonstrations of all
+lights and radiations; and of all colours: and out of things
+uncoloured and transparent, we can represent unto you all several
+colours; not in rain-bows, (as it is in gems, and prisms,) but of
+themselves single. We represent also all multiplications of light,
+which we carry to great distance, and make so sharp as to discern
+small points and lines. Also all colourations of light; all delusions
+and deceits of the sight, in figures, magnitudes, motions, colours all
+demonstrations of shadows. We find also divers means, yet unknown to
+you, of producing of light originally from divers bodies. We procure
+means of seeing objects afar off; as in the heaven and remote places;
+and represent things near as afar off; and things afar off as near;
+making feigned distances. We have also helps for the sight, far above
+spectacles and glasses in use. We have also glasses and means to see
+small and minute bodies perfectly and distinctly; as the shapes and
+colours of small flies and worms, grains and flaws in gems, which
+cannot otherwise be seen, observations in urine and blood not
+otherwise to be seen. We make artificial rain-bows, halo's, and
+circles about light. We represent also all manner of reflexions,
+refractions, and multiplications of visual beams of objects.</p>
+<p>"We have also precious stones of all kinds, many of them of great
+beauty, and to you unknown; crystals likewise; and glasses of divers
+kinds; and amongst them some of metals vitrificated, and other
+materials besides those of which you make glass. Also a number of
+fossils, and imperfect minerals, which you have not. Likewise
+loadstones of prodigious virtue; and other rare stones, both natural
+and artificial.</p>
+<p>"We have also sound-houses, where we practise and demonstrate all
+sounds, and their generation. We have harmonies which you have not,
+of quarter-sounds, and lesser slides of sounds. Divers instruments of
+music likewise to you unknown, some sweeter than any you have,
+together with bells and rings that are dainty and sweet. We represent
+small sounds as great and deep; likewise great sounds extenuate and
+sharp; we make divers tremblings and warblings of sounds, which in
+their original are entire. We represent and imitate all articulate
+sounds and letters, and the voices and notes of beasts and birds. We
+have certain helps which set to the ear do further the hearing greatly.
+We have also divers strange and artificial echoes, reflecting the
+voice many times, and as it were tossing it: and some that give back
+the voice louder than it came, some shriller, and some deeper; yea,
+some rendering the voice differing in the letters or articulate sound
+from that they receive. We have also means to convey sounds in trunks
+and pipes, in strange lines and distances.</p>
+<p>"We have also perfume-houses; wherewith we join also practices of
+taste. We multiply smells, which may seem strange. We imitate smells,
+making all smells to breathe outs of other mixtures than those that
+give them. We make divers imitations of taste likewise, so that they
+will deceive any man's taste. And in this house we contain also a
+confiture-house; where we make all sweet-meats, dry and moist; and
+divers pleasant wines, milks, broths, and sallets; in far greater
+variety than you have.</p>
+<p>"We have also engine-houses, where are prepared engines and
+instruments for all sorts of motions. There we imitate and practise
+to make swifter motions than any you have, either out of your muskets
+or any engine that you have: and to make them and multiply them more
+easily, and with small force, by wheels and other means: and to make
+them stronger and more violent than yours are; exceeding your greatest
+cannons and basilisks. We represent also ordnance and instruments of
+war, and engines of all kinds: and likewise new mixtures and
+compositions of gun-powder, wild-fires burning in water, and
+unquenchable. Also fireworks of all variety both for pleasure and use.
+We imitate also flights of birds; we have some degrees of flying in
+the air. We have ships and boats for going under water, and brooking
+of seas; also swimming-girdles and supporters. We have divers curious
+clocks, and other like motions of return: and some perpetual motions.
+We imitate also motions of living creatures, by images, of men, beasts,
+birds, fishes, and serpents. We have also a great number of other
+various motions, strange for equality, fineness, and subtilty.</p>
+<p>"We have also a mathematical house, where are represented all
+instruments, as well of geometry as astronomy, exquisitely made.</p>
+<p>"We have also houses of deceits of the senses; where we represent all
+manner of feats of juggling, false apparitions, impostures, and
+illusions; and their fallacies. And surely you will easily believe
+that we that have so many things truly natural which induce admiration,
+could in a world of particulars deceive the senses, if we would
+disguise those things and labour to make them seem more miraculous.
+But we do hate all impostures, and lies; insomuch as we have severely
+forbidden it to all our fellows, under pain of ignominy and fines,
+that they do not show any natural work or thing, adorned or swelling;
+but only pure as it is, and without all affectation of strangeness.</p>
+<p>"These are (my son) the riches of Salomon's House.</p>
+<p>"For the several employments and offices of our fellows; we have
+twelve that sail into foreign countries, under the names of other
+nations, (for our own we conceal); who bring us the books, and
+abstracts, and patterns of experiments of all other parts. These we
+call Merchants of Light.</p>
+<p>"We have three that collect the experiments which are in all books.
+These we call Depredators.</p>
+<p>"We have three that collect the experiments of all mechanical arts;
+and also of liberal sciences; and also of practices which are not
+brought into arts. These we call Mystery-men.</p>
+<p>"We have three that try new experiments, such as themselves think good.
+These we call Pioneers or Miners.</p>
+<p>"We have three that draw the experiments of the former four into
+titles and tables, to give the better light for the drawing of
+observations and axioms out of them. These we call Compilers.</p>
+<p>"We have three that bend themselves, looking into the experiments of
+their fellows, and cast about how to draw out of them things of use
+and practise for man's life, and knowledge, as well for works as for
+plain demonstration of causes, means of natural divinations, and the
+easy and clear discovery of the virtues and parts of bodies. These we
+call Dowry-men or Benefactors.</p>
+<p>"Then after divers meetings and consults of our whole number, to
+consider of the former labours and collections, we have three that
+take care, out of them, to direct new experiments, of a higher light,
+more penetrating into nature than the former. These we call Lamps.</p>
+<p>"We have three others that do execute the experiments so directed, and
+report them. These we call Inoculators.</p>
+<p>"Lastly, we have three that raise the former discoveries by
+experiments into greater observations, axioms, and aphorisms. These
+we call Interpreters of Nature.</p>
+<p>"We have also, as you must think, novices and apprentices, that the
+succession of the former employed men do not fail; besides, a great
+number of servants and attendants, men and women. And this we do also:
+we have consultations, which of the inventions and experiences which
+we have discovered shall be published, and which not: and take all an
+oath of secrecy, for the concealing of those which we think fit to
+keep secret: though some of those we do reveal sometimes to the state
+and some not.</p>
+<p>"For our ordinances and rites: we have two very long and fair
+galleries: in one of these we place patterns and samples of all manner
+of the more rare and excellent inventions in the other we place the
+statues of all principal inventors. There we have the statue of your
+Columbus, that discovered the West Indies: also the inventor of ships:
+your monk that was the inventor of ordnance and of gunpowder: the
+inventor of music: the inventor of letters: the inventor of printing:
+the inventor of observations of astronomy: the inventor of works in
+metal: the inventor of glass: the inventor of silk of the worm: the
+inventor of wine: the inventor of corn and bread: the inventor of
+sugars: and all these, by more certain tradition than you have. Then
+have we divers inventors of our own, of excellent works; which since
+you have not seen, it were too long to make descriptions of them; and
+besides, in the right understanding of those descriptions you might
+easily err. For upon every invention of value, we erect a statue to
+the inventor, and give him a liberal and honourable reward. These
+statues are some of brass; some of marble and touch-stone; some of
+cedar and other special woods gilt and adorned; some of iron; some of
+silver; some of gold.</p>
+<p>"We have certain hymns and services, which we say daily, of Lord and
+thanks to God for his marvellous works: and forms of prayers,
+imploring his aid and blessing for the illumination of our labours,
+and the turning of them into good and holy uses.</p>
+<p>"Lastly, we have circuits or visits of divers principal cities of the
+kingdom; where, as it cometh to pass, we do publish such new
+profitable inventions as we think good. And we do also declare
+natural divinations of diseases, plagues, swarms-of hurtful creatures,
+scarcity, tempests, earthquakes, great inundations, comets,
+temperature of the year, and divers other things; and we give counsel
+thereupon, what the people shall do for the prevention and remedy of
+them."</p>
+<p>And when he had said this, he stood up; and I, as I had been taught,
+kneeled down, and he laid his right hand upon my head, and said; "God
+bless thee, my son; and God bless this relation, which I have made. I
+give thee leave to publish it for the good of other nations; for we
+here are in God's bosom, a land unknown." And so he left me; having
+assigned a value of about two thousand ducats, for a bounty to me and
+my fellows. For they give great largesses where they come upon all
+occasions.</p>
+<p>[The rest was not perfected.]</p>
+<BR>
+<BR>
+<BR>
+<BR>
+<PRE>
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