The First Blast of the Trumpet against the monstrous regiment of Women by John Knox
page 20 of 95 (21%)
page 20 of 95 (21%)
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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 |
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