foundation, one of the said original books was there happily found,
lying in a deep obscure hole, being wrapped in a strong linen cloth,
which was waxed all over with beeswax, within and without; whereby
the book was preserved fair, without any blemish.

"And at the same time Ferdinandus II. being Emperor in Germany, who
was a severe enemy and persecutor of the Protestant religion, the
aforesaid gentleman and grandchild to him that had hidden the said
books in that obscure hole, fearing that if the said Emperor should
get knowledge that one of the said books was yet forthcoming, and in
his custody, whereby not only himself might be brought into trouble,
but also the book in danger to be destroyed, as all the rest were so
long before; and also calling me to mind, and knowing that I had the
High Dutch Tongue very perfect, did send the said original book over
hither into England unto me; and therewith did write unto me a
letter, wherein he related the passages of the preserving and
finding out the said book.

"And also he earnestly moved me in his letter, that for the
advancement of God's glory, and of Christ's Church, I would take the
pains to translate the said book, to the end that that most
excellent divine work of Luther might be brought again to light.

"Whereupon I took the said book before me, and many times began to
translate the same, but always I was hindered therein, being called
upon about other business, insomuch that by no possible means I
could remain by that work. Then, about six weeks after I had
received the said book, it fell out that I being in bed with my wife
one night, between twelve and one of the clock, she being asleep,
but myself yet awake, there appeared unto me an ancient man,