the fourth kingdome shall be strong as iron] Described vers. 33. By the two legges and feet of iron mixed with clay, is understood by many the Romane Empire, and also that of Antichrist; whereunto indeed, that which is here spoken, and that in Chap. 7. 7. may be analogically referred: and it may be that in regard of like revolutions, the holy Ghost in the Apocalyps alludeth hereunto: but in the first and proper sense, the successors of Alexander the great are here understood, reigning in Syria, and Egypt, who more sharply oppressed the Church then all others, in so much that they have gone about to do violence to the conscience, Chap. 7. 7, 8. &8. 8, 9, 10. 24. &11. 4, 5. 31. and this kingdom is called of iron, a base metal, but very hard, and of condition very variable, some while powerfull, and otherwhile very weake, a qualitie very agreeable to these two kingdomes, in regard of their originals, acts, and events. and bruise] Whom? even the Jews nation: but the witty Daniel hideth that, which would cause them to be more hated of the heathen; Conferre with these words, Chap. 7. 23. &8. 24. &11. 22. &c.