Theodore Aemilius, a clergyman, distinguished for piety and learning, met him in a tavern where the boy was working as a servant. Surprised by his quick wit, and intelligible speech, he decided to with the education of Jacobus for the next 15 years. During this period he exhibited traits of uncommon genius, and was thoroughly taught in the elements of science, and particularly in the rudiments of the Latin and Greek languages.
About this time, Rudolph Snellius, highly reputed for his learning, especially in mathematics and languages, became acquainted with and interested in his young townsman. He invited him to go to Marpurg under his own patronage. When he returned to Holland, he found his native town destroyed by the Spanish and found out that his mother, brother and sister were among the victims of the indiscriminate slaughter. He retraced his steps sadly to Marpurg, performing the whole journey on foot.
When the new Dutch
University at Leyden was formed,
under the auspices of William I, Prince of Orange, he at once prepared
to return to Holland.
He delivered lectures on theological subjects out of the ordinary college
course. By these and other exhibitions of his erudition, he acquired
such reputation that the faculty of Theology offered him the title and
degree of Doctor. This he modestly declined, alleging, as a reason,
his youth.
In the beginning of the following year, he was licensed to preach, and by the request of the authorities of the church, he began his public ministry. His efforts in the pulpit were received with much favor.
continue... |
 |
||||