:354 LIVES OF THE PURITANS. M. What are these things ? Who is the accuser ? And, who is accused ? W. Who is the accuser, I know not ; but they say they are articles objected against me. M. Who troubleth us with such things ? There is no accuser ; and no man accused. There is no man or thing particularly mentioned, but all is expressed in general terms. What can we dowith such things ? W. I cannot tell. But I suffer the greater wrong, being carried up and down, and tossed to and fro, for nothing. M. Who beganthis matter ? And who bade you follow it ? W. Who began it, I know not. But I am appointed to desire you to make an end of it. I have beenmuch troubled in your courts ; and my friends have been much charged in payingmoney, I cannot tell for what. M. I wish their money was in their bellies. W. I wish rather it was in their purses. But, I pray you, sir, let the case be ended. M. I have other business to mind. W. If my case be of so small a moment, you may soon finish it. I pray you, therefore, let charity move you to make an end of it, that I may be no more troubled about it. Walker. The more we consider your case, the worse we find it. There are such words and sayings as become a railer, rather than a sober preacher. W. The words and sayings are not mine, but the malicious accuser's, who set them down thus tomake me the more odious. Walk. Why then do you confess them to be yours, in your answer ? W. I do not confess the words, but the substance of the matter. For the register would not take down my answers in mine own words, but would writethem as they are there. Walk. I tell thee they are full of bitterness, malice, and slander. W. Sir, I came for your certificate to make an end of it, as you promised me. Walk. I tell thee, thou shalt have none of our certificate. The register shall have it, and not shew it thee till the next term. W. That is very hard dealing. Walk. What sayest thou ? Do we do thee any wrong ? W. Yes, sir, even you. Walk. What sayest thou, boy ? Thou hast neither learn- ing, nor manners in thee.
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