Roger Baynes facts for kids

Roger Baynes (born 1546, died 1623) was an important helper, or secretary, to Cardinal Allen. He was also an author who wrote some very rare books.

Roger Baynes was born in England in 1546. During the time of Queen Elizabeth I, he decided to change his religion from Protestant to Catholic. He then traveled to the English College, Reims in France, arriving there on July 4, 1579.

Journey to Rome and New Role

In the same year, Roger Baynes went with Dr. Allen to Rome, Italy. When Dr. Allen became a cardinal (a high-ranking leader in the Catholic Church), Roger Baynes became his personal secretary. He also managed the cardinal's household as his "major-domo." This meant he helped with many important tasks and kept things running smoothly.

Later Life and Legacy

After Cardinal Allen passed away, Roger Baynes spent his time focusing on religious activities. He died on October 9, 1623. He was buried in the English College, Rome, where a special monument was put up to remember him. The words on his monument called him a "noble Englishman." It also said that in his will, he left money for good causes.

Roger Baynes's Rare Books

Roger Baynes wrote two books that are now very hard to find.

The Praise of Solitarinesse

His first book was called The Praise of Solitarinesse. It was printed in London in 1577. This book was written as a conversation between people. It talked about different ways of living, like an active life or a life spent in quiet thought. The book was dedicated to his friend, Mr. Edward Dyer. It also included a Latin phrase: "Qui nihil sperat, Nihil desperat" which means "He who hopes for nothing, despairs for nothing."

The Baynes of Aqvisgrane

His second book was titled The Baynes of Aqvisgrane, The I. Part & I. Volume, intitvled Variety. It was printed in Augusta, Germany, in 1617. This book was also written as a series of conversations. It had three main sections: "Profit," "Pleasure," and "Honor." The book was filled with many interesting and useful things to learn. Roger Baynes mentioned that he had been exiled, or forced to live outside of England, for a long time. The printer of the book noted that even though it was printed later, it had been written years before, during Queen Elizabeth I's reign. It seems that only the first part of this book, "Of Profit," was actually printed.