170 LIVES OF THE PURITANS. the year 1567, at which time, because he was of the number of those divines who were styled peaceable nonconformists, he was treated with some,degree of gentleness, and obtained a license to preach; or, at least, a connivance to continue in the ministry. In the year 1571, hewas again convened before the arch- bishop and other high commissioners, at Lambeth, when he underwent an examination. Mr.Christopher Goodman, Mr. Edward Deering, and Mr. John Field, were convened at the same time. Dr. Wyburn, together with his brethren, presented on this occasion the following proposals to their lordships :-1. " I am ready to subscribe to the true christian faith, and the doctrine of the sacraments, as contained in the Book of Articles.-2. As to the Book of Common Prayer, appointed by public authority, it contains, even as you confess yourselves, some imperfections; and I confess the same. Yet, that I may testify my great desire of brotherlyconcord, I will subscribe to the doctrine of faith, and administration of the sacraments, in the same book ; so far as they make for edification, and are agreeable to the fore- said Book of Articles.-And, 3. As tothe apparel appointed, because it seemeth not unto me to be sufficiently authorized by the word of God, for the ministers to be required to use it, I dare not use it, for fear of offence, humbly beseeching your honours' consideration thereof. Yet I do not judge or condemn others in- using the same ; for to the Lord they stand or fall, as I also do. Neither would I break the unity of the christian faith, by withdrawing myduty from preaching the truth and faith, as in the Book of Articles contained : to the end, that we may not go backwards, but forwards to perfection."+ It does not, however, appear what was the result of his examination, or of these pro- posals. In the year 1573, Dr. Wyburn, with many of his brethren, was again brought before the high commission, and convened before the council, when certain articles were presented to him, requiring his subscription. But, after a long examination, refusing to subscribe, he was suspended from preaching.t About the same time, he wrote the excellent letter generally ascribed to him, in defence of himself and his brethren, who were deprived by the arbi- trary proceedings of the prelates.§ Strype's Parker, p. 243, 325, 413. MS. Register, p. Newcourt's Repert. Peel. vol. i. p. 534. § Parte of a Register,p. 1-12.
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