I find in former ages many unlearned and unfit men, by favour recommended to bishoprics, but of a man recommended by the king, and refused by the clergy, only for his want of learning, I think there is but one example, and that was one Robert Paslew, in the time of Hen. 3., which Prince is no less to be commended for admitting the refusal, than they for refusing: But yet in speaking of learned bishops, this church may say their last have been their best. Doctor Watson<435> your Highness can remember his Majesty's almoner, he was a very good preacher, preferred by the Queen, first to the deanery of Bristol, where he was well beloved; and after to Chichester, where he was more honoured, if not beloved, for the course of his life, and cause of his death. I might in some sort compare him to bishop Vaughan,<436> late of London; he grew somewhat corpulent, and having been sick, and but newly recovered, adventured to travel to wait in his place, and so by recidivation<437> he died..

Prev Next