March 20. 1678. an Alarm in the Night.

In the Night in a deep Sleep, I saw a Place, as a Tower for strength enclosed, and within it a Garden very richly replenished with Flowers and Plants of all sorts. And round about the Walls hung bright Armour of all kind, to Arm from Head to Foot. Which observing, I said to one by me, sure this presageth some War-like time, that is coming upon the Nation. But when I awaked and considered hereupon, there was another signification given to me, by this Word, which spake in me. All-arm your selves within, take down the Buckler, Breast-Plates and Shield, and be you as ten Thousand strong, for the keeping of your Garden-Treasury, against which many devices are hatched to Rob, and Steal, and thereof to carry away. Therefore beware hereof, and be found throughout armed. For the Holy Spirit is still herein your Friend, for giving Advertisements against all intended evil.March 21. 1678

The Interpretation.

This Morning many things were presented from the deep Abyss, from whence the Manifold Wisdom hath fixed the visible and invisible Worlds to great admiration. Somewhat hereof did stand open, in a more nearer prospect to my internal Eye: but withdrew, so that I could give no clear account, nor make any report of the deep Mystery. Only this Word I had, saying, Keep close and remember your solemn assignments in purity of Heart and Mind to walk with God, and to stand in a Posture of defence. That at every Alarm, which ye may hear from the evil Nations, ye may take down readily from the Tower-Armory, and keep all the young set-Plants charily. For this advice was further given, It is far more easy to keep unclean and hurtful Spirits out, than when they have got in, to chase them out. The Holy Spirit sees it meet, so long as we are in ths tempting Region, to be stirring us up still by the way of remembrance, that so we may not slack our work.