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But no Country in Europe has been more productive of these female astrologers and magicians than our own. Lancashire, my native Country and Place of residence, was always looked upon as a Colony of Witches; and the Western Isles of Scotland have been equally renowned for a certain kind of Soothsayers, called second sighted persons. But I shall confine myself, at present, to that celebrated Yorkshire Sibyl, Mrs Ursula Shipton, commonly called Mother Shipton, who flourished in the Reign of Henry the VIII; and since Merlin, the Welsh oracle, hath lately had so much Honour done Him, I think it a little hard that no notice should be taken of his Sister in the same Art.
This great prophetess came into the world, like her brother Merlin, in a very extraordinary manner, being begot by a Demon, in masquerade, on the body of a young girl, whom he found bemoaning her condition by the side of a river.
Many notable pranks are recorded of Her, during her childhood, such as setting Women upon their heads, and transforming men into horned beasts; which gave the world an early presage of the wonderful things she was afterwards to perform.
Her fame soon spread through the whole kingdom, and multitudes of all ranks resorted to Her for the resolution of their doubts, and the knowledge of future events, which she explained to them in several mystical prophecies, or oracles; particularly Cardinal Wosley's downfall, and the reformation of religion; but the following in my opinion is the most remarkable of them all.
When the cow does ride the bull
Then, O priest, beware thy skull;
And when the lower shrubs do fall,
The great trees quickly follow shall;
The mitred peacock's lofty pride,
Shall to his Master be a guide;
And one great Court to pass shall bring,
What was never done by any King.
The poor shall grieve to see that day,
And who did feast must fast and pray;
Fate so decreed their overthrow;
Riches brought pride, and pride brought woe.
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