PRESTON. 355 and they lodged a complaint against him to the vice- chancellor, ,6 that it was not safe for Preston to be thus adored, unless they wished to set up puritanism, and pull down the church." An order was therefore issued from the consistory, that the scholars and townsmen should henceforwards confine themselves to their own preachers, and not be allowed, in any case whatever, to attend these lectures in future.* Such ecclesiastical rigours appeared altogether unnecessary ; for there was now very little preaching through the whole university, the two lectures at Trinity church and St. Andrew's being put down, and the lecturers silenced. Having obtained so distinguished a reputation, he was at length allowed the use of St. Botolph's church, belonging to Queen's college. But here his uncommon popularity exposed him to the resentment of his enemies. Dr. New- comb, commissary to the Bishop of Ely, coming to the church, was exceedingly offended with the crowd of people assembled ;f and he prohibited him preaching, commanding that only evening prayers should be read. The minister of the place, the Earl ofLincoln, and several others, entreated that Preston might be allowed to preach, at least, on that occasion. But Newcomb remained inflexible, and in anger went home, leaving them to have a sermon at their peril. However, Preston was advised to preach ; and, as much time had been spent in -sending messages to the com- missary, he was obliged to omit the prayers before the sermon, in order that the scholars might be at home in time for their college prayers. Next morning Dr. Newcomb hastened to Newmarket, where the court was then held, and brought complaints against him to Bishop Andrews and others ; assuring them, that Preston was a nonconformistin heart, and would soon be one in practice ; and he was so followed and adored, that, unless some effectual means were speedily used, all conformity would be destroyed, and their authority be trodden under foot. And he added, that Prestonwas so cunning, that gentle means would not answer the purpose; but he must be seriously and thoroughly handled . The kingbeing now at Newmarket, the complaint was laid before his majesty, who ordered him to be prosecuted. Preston was immediately convened before them, when he spoke inhis own defence with great humility and meekness. Bishop Andrews told him, the king was informed that he Clark's Lives, p. t Fuller's Hist. of Caulk. p. 152. t Clark's Lives, p. 55.
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