(John), bishop of Rochester, was born at Beverley in Yorkshire, in the year 1459, and educated in the collegiate church of that place. In 1484, he removed to Michael-house in Cambridge, of which college he was elected master in the year 1495. Having applied himself to the study of divinity, he took orders; and, becoming eminent as a divine, attracted the notice of Margaret, countess of Richmond, mother of Henry VII. who made him her chaplain and confessor. In 1501, he took the degree of doctor of divinity, and the same year was elected chancellor of the university. In the year following, he was appointed Lady Margaret's first divinity-professor; and, in 1504, consecrated bishop of Rochester; which small bishopric he would never resign, though he was offered both Ely and Lincoln. It is generally allowed, that the foundation of the two colleges of Christ-church and St John's, in Cambridge, was entirely owing to bishop Fisher's persuasion, and influence with the countess of Richmond: he not only formed the design, but superintended the execution. On the promulgation of Martin Luther's doctrine, our bishop was the first to enter the lists against him. On this occasion he exerted all his influence, and is generally supposed to have written the famous book by which Henry VIII. obtained the title of Defender of the Faith. Hitherto he continued in favour with the king; but in 1527, opposing his divorce,