John Trapp on 2 Corinthians 1:8

Verſe 8. For we would not, &c.] It is of great uſe to know the ſufferings that others have ſuſtained before us. The Primitive Chriſtians kept Catalogues of their Martyrs. Dr Tailor the Martyr at his death gave his ſon Thomas a latine book, containing the ſayings and ſufferings of the old Martyrs, collected by himſelf. In the Engliſh Seminaries beyond ſeas, they have at dinner time their Martyrology read, that is, the legend of our Engliſh Traitours.

We deſpaired even of life] God is oft better to us then our hopes: he reſerves uſually his holy hand for a dead lift. He comes in the nick of time: and our extremity is his opportunity. See the Note on Luk. 18.8.