upon comparison with other books from the press of JOHN CRESPIN in
that city.

A copy of the work having been sent to JOHN FOX, then residing at Basle,
he wrote "a loving and friendly letter" to the author, in which he
expostulates with him on the impropriety of the publication. In KNOX'S
reply, dated the 18th of May 1558, he says, he will not excuse "his rude
vehemencie and inconsidered affirmations, which may appear rather to
proceed from choler than of zeal or reason." "To me," he adds, "it _is_
enough to say, that black is not white, an'd man's tyranny and foolishness
is not GOD's perfect ordinance."

The similar work of GOODMAN on _Obedience to Superior_ Powers which
appeared at Geneva about the same time, was also suggested by the
persecuting spirit which then prevailed. But both works were published
somewhat unseasonably, as such questions on _Government_ and _Obedience_,
it is justly observed, might have been more fitly argued when a King
happened to fill the throne. The terms used by GOODMAN in reference to
MARY, Queen of England, are not less violent than unseemly. She died on
the 17th of November 1558, and her successor regarded the authors of those
works with the utmost dislike; although neither of them, in their
writings, had any special reference or the least intention of giving
offence to Queen ELIZABETH....

That these works, and every person supposed to entertain similar
sentiments, should be regarded with marked aversion by Queen ELIZABETH,
need excite no surprise.

In the beginning of the year 1559, CALVIN having revised and
republished his _Commentaries_ on _ISAIAH_, originally dedicated