of his upon a solar eclipse in the 19th degree of Aries 1663, taken out
of _Leovitius de magnis conjunctionibus_, viz. _Oh Reges et Principes
&c._ Both the King of Bohemia, and Gustavus King of Sweden, dying during
the effects of that eclipse.

John Booker was born in Manchester, of good parentage, in the year 1601;
was in his youth well instructed in the Latin tongue, which he
understood very well. He seemed from his infancy to be designed for
astrology; for from the time he had any understanding, he would be
always poring on, and studying almanacks. He came to London at fitting
years, and served an apprenticeship to an haberdasher in Laurence-Lane,
London; but either wanting stock to setup, or disliking the calling, he
left his trade, and taught to write at Hadley in Middlesex several
scholars in that school: he wrote singularly well both Secretary and
Roman. In process of time he served Sir Christopher Clethero, Knight,
Alderman of London, as his clerk, being a city Justice of Peace: he also
was clerk to Sir Hugh Hammersley, Alderman of London, both which he
served with great credit and estimation; and by that means became not
only well known, but as well respected of the most eminent citizens of
London, even to his dying day.

He was an excellent proficient in astrology, whose excellent verses upon
the twelve months, framed according to the configurations of each month,
being blessed with success according to his predictions, procured him
much reputation all over England: he was a very honest man, abhorred any
deceit in the art he studied; had a curious fancy in judging of thefts,
and as successful in resolving love-questions: he was no mean proficient
in astronomy; he understood much of physick; was a great admirer of the
antimonial cup; not unlearned in chymistry, which he loved well, but did
not practise. He was inclined to a diabetes; and in the last three years