Chapter LVI: Act 131: , Par. 8, K. Ja. 6, and the subjects’ liberties, who ought (53)

These duties of Humiliation, Repentance, Faith, Amendment of life, and Fervent Prayer, though the principall, yet are not all which are required at the hands of this Nation, but men of all sorts and degrees, must timely apply themselves to such other Resolutions and Actions as are most suteable and necessary at this time: Which that all may the better understand, and bee excited and encouraged to act accordingly, let it be well observed, that the present state of the Controversie and Cause is no other but what hath been formerly professed before GOD and the World, that is, The Reformation and Preservation of Religion, The Defence of the Honour and Happinesse of the King, and of the authority of the Parliament, together with the maintenance of our Lawes, Liberties, Lives, and Estates. We are not changed from our former principles and intentions, but these who did fall off from us to the contrary party, have now made it manifest, that these were not their ends when they seemed to joyn with us: Therefore are they gone out from us, because they were not of us. And as our Cause is the same, so the danger thereof is not lesse, but greater then before, and that from two sorts of Enemies: First, from open Enemies, we mean those of the Popish, Prelaticall, and Malignant Faction, who have displayed a Banner against the Lord, and against his Christ, in all the three Kingdoms, being set on fire of Hell, and by the speciall inspiration of Satan, who is full of fury, because he knowes he hath but a short time to reigne. The Cockatrice before hatched, is now broken forth into a Viper. The danger was before feared, now it is felt; before imminent, now incumbent; before our division, now our destruction is endeavoured; before the Sword was fourbished and made ready, now the Sword is made fat with Flesh, and drunk with Bloud, and yet it hungreth and thirsteth for more. The Queen is most active abroad, using all means for strengthening the Popish, and suppressing the Protestant party; insomuch that Malignants have insolently expressed their confidence, that her journey to France shall prove a successefull Counsell, and that this Island, and particularly this Kingdome, shall have a greater power to grapple with, before the next Summer, then any which yet we have encountred with. The Irish Rebels have offered to the King to send over a greater number into both the Kingdomes: The hostile intentions of the King of Denmark, if God be not pleased still to divert and disable him, do plainly enough appear from his own Letters, sent not long since to the Estates of this Kingdome. In the mean time, the hellish crue under the conduct of the excommunicate and forefaulted Earle of Montrose, and of Alaster Mac-Donald, a Papist and an Outlaw, doth exercise such barbarous, unnaturall, horrid, and unheard-of cruelty, as is above expression: And (if not repressed) what better usage can others not yet touched expect from them, being now hardened and animated by the successe which God hath for our humiliation and correction, permitted unto them: and if they shall now get leave to secure the High-Lands for themselves, they will not onely from thence infest the rest of this Countrey, but endeavour a diversion of our forces in England, from the prosecution of the ends expressed in the Covenant of the three Kingdoms, toward which ends, as their service hath been already advantageous, so their continuance is most necessary.

The second sort of Enemies, from which our present dangers arise, are secret Malignants and Dis-covenanters, who may be known by these and the like Characters: Their slighting or censuring of the publick Resolutions of this Kirk and State: Their consulting and labouring to raise Jealousies and Divisions, to retard or hinder the execution of what is ordered by the publick Judicatories: Their slandering of the Covenant of the three Kingdomes and Expedition into England, as not necessary for the good of Religion, or safety of this Kingdome, or as tending to the diminution of the Kings just power and greatnesse: Their confounding of the Kings Honour and Authority, with the abuse and pretence thereof, and with Commissions, Warrants, and Letters, procured from the King, by the Enemies of this Cause and Covenant, as if we could not oppose the latter, without encroaching upon the former: Their whetting of their tongues, to censure and slander those whom GOD hath honoured as his chief Instruments in this Work: Their commending, justifying, or excusing the proceedings of James Grahame, sometime Earl of Montrose, and his Complices: Their conversing or intercommuning by word or writ, with him, or other excommunicate Lords, contrary to the nature of that Ordinance of Christ, and to the old Acts of Generall Assemblies: Their making merry, and their insolent carriage, at the news of any prosperous successe of the Popish and Malignant Armies in any of these Kingdomes: Their drawing of Parties and Factions, to the weakning of the common Union: Their spreading of Informations, That Uniformitie in Religion, and the Presbyteriall Government, is not intended by the Parliament of England: Their Endeavours, Informations, and Sollicitations, tending to weaken the hearts and hands of others, and to make them withhold their assistance from this Work.

Let this sort of bosome Enemies, and dis-affected Persons, be well marked, timely discovered, and carefully avoided, lest they infuse the poyson of their seducing counsels into the mindes of others: Wherein let Ministers be faithfull, and Presbyteries vigilant and unpartial, as they will answer the contrary to GOD, and to the Generall Assembly, or their Commissioners.

The cause and the dangers thereof being thus evidenced, unlesse men will blot out of their hearts the love of Religion, and the Cause of GOD, and cast off all care of their Countrey, Lawes, Liberties, and Estates, yea, all naturall affection to the preservation of themselves, their Wives, Children, and Friends, and whatsoever is dearest to them under the Sun (all these being in the visible danger of a present ruine and destruction) they must now or never appear actively, each one stretching himself to, yea beyond his power. It is no time to dally, nor go about the businesse by halfes, nor by almost, but altogether zealous: “Cursed be he that doth the Work of the Lord negligently, or dealeth falsely in the Covenant of God.” If wee have been so forward to assist our Neighbour Kingdomes, shall wee neglect to defend our own? Or shall the Enemies of GOD be more active against his Cause, than his People for it? GOD forbid. If the Work being so far carried on, shall now mis-carry, and fail in our hands, our own consciences shall condemne us, and posterity shall curse us: But if wee stand stoutly and stedfastly to it, the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in our hands, and all Generations shall call us blessed.

Let Ministers stir up others by free and faithfull preaching, and by admonishing every one of his duty, as there shall be occasion: And if it shall be the lot of any of them to fall under the power of the Enemy, let them through the strength of Christ, persevere in their integrity, choosing affliction rather then sin, glorifying GOD, and not fearing what Flesh can do unto them.

Let our Armies beware of ungodlinesse, and worldly lusts, living godly, soberly, and righteously, avoyding all scandalous carriage, which may give occasion to others to think the worse of their Cause and Covenant, and remembring that the eyes of GOD, Angels, and Men are upon them: Finally, renouncing all confidence in their own strength, skill, valour, and number, and trusting only to the God of the Armies of Israel, who hath fought, and will fight for them.

Let all sorts both of high and low degree in this Kingdome, call to minde their Solemne Covenants, and pay their vows to the most High; and namely, that Article of our first Covenant, which obligeth us not to stay nor hinder any such Resolution, as by common consent shall be found to conduce for the ends of the Covenant, but by all lawfull means to further and promove the same; Which lyeth as a bond upon peoples consciences, readily to obey such orders, and willingly to under go such burdens, as by the publick and common resolution of the Estates of Parliament, are found necessary for the prosecution of the War; considering that the Enemy cannot bee suppressed without a competent number of Forces, and Forces cannot be kept together without maintenance, and maintenance cannot be had without such publick Burdens; which however for the present, not joyous, but grievous, yet it shall be no grief of heart afterwards, even unto the common sort, that they have given some part of their necessary livelihood, for assisting so good a Work. It is far from our thoughts, that the pinching of some, should make others superfluously to abound: It is rather to bee expected of the richer sort, that they will spare and defalk, not onely the pride and superfluity, both of apparell and diet, but also a part of their lawfull allowance in these things, to contribute the same as a free-will-offering, beside what they are obliged to, by Law or publick Order, after the example of godly Nehemiah, who for the space of twelve years, while the walls of Jerusalem were a building, did not eat the bread of the Governour, that he might ease by so much the Peoples Burthens and Bondage.

In our last Covenant, there is another article which (without the oblivion or neglect of any of the rest) we wish may be well remembred at this time; namely, That we shall assist and defend all that enter into this League and Covenant, in the maintaining and pursuing thereof, and shall not suffer our selves, directly or indirectly, by whatsoever Combination, Perswasion, or Terror, to be divided and withdrawne from this blessed Union and Conjunction, whether to make defection to the contrary part, or to give our selves to a detestable indifferency or neutrality in this Cause: According to which Article, mens reality and integrity in the Covenant, will be manifest and demonstrable, as well by their omissions, as by their commissions; as well by their not doing good, as by their doing of evil; He that is not with us, is against us; and he that gathereth not with us, scattereth. Whoever he be that will not, according to publick order and appointment, adventure his Person, or send out these that are under his power, or pay the Contributions imposed for the maintenance of the Forces, must be taken for an Enemie, Malignant, and Covenant-breaker, and so involved both into the displeasure of GOD, and Censures of the Kirk, and no doubt into civil punishments also to be inflicted by the State.

And if any shall prove so untoward and perfidious, their iniquitie shall be upon themselves, and they shall bear their punishment: Deliverance and good successe shall follow those who with purpose of heart cleave unto the Lord, and whose hearts are upright toward his glory. When wee look back upon the great things which GOD hath done for us, and our former deliverances out of several dangers and difficulties which appeared to us insuperable, experience breeds hope: And when we consider how in the midst of all our sorrows and pressures, the Lord our God hath given us a naile in his holy place, and hath lightned our eyes with the desireable and beautiful sight of his own glory in his Temple, we take it for an argument that he hath yet thoughts of peace, and a purpose of mercy toward us; Though for a small moment he hath forsaken us, yet with great mercies he will gather us: Hee hath lifted up our Enemies, that their fall may be the greater, and that he may cast them downe into desolation for ever. Arise, and let us be doing; The Lord of Hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our Refuge.

_Act against Lykwakes._

Whereas the corrupt Custome of Lykwakes hath fostered both Superstition and Profanitie through the Land; This present Assembly Discharges the same in time comming; And appoints Presbyteries To take speciall care for trying and censuring the Transgressors of this Act within their severall Bounds.

_Act recommending to Sessions To have the Printed Acts of Assemblie._

The Generall Assembly, considering how necessar it is, That every Session in a Parish have the Acts of the Assembly for their use, Doth therefore seriously recommend to every Parish and Session To buy the Printed Acts of the Assembly; and Ordains Presbyteries To crave account hereof from every Minister, before their going to Provinciall Assemblies: And likewise, That every Provinciall Assembly, crave account from Presbyteries in their trials, if every Session be so provided, and that they try the diligence of Presbyteries and Ministers used for that effect.

13 Februar. 1645. Post meridiem. Sess. Ult.

_Act for censuring the Observers of Yule-day, and other superstitious dayes, especially if they be Schollars._

The Generall Assembly taking to their consideration, The manifold Abuses, Profanitie, and Superstitions, committed on Yule-day, and some other superstitious dayes following, Have unanimously concluded, and hereby Ordains, That whatsoever Person or Persons hereafter shall be found guilty in keeping of the foresaid superstitious dayes, shall be proceeded against by Kirk Censures, and shall make their publick Repentance therefore in the face of the Congregation where the offence is committed: And that Presbyteries and Provinciall Synods Take particular notice how Ministers try and censure Delinquents of this kinde, within the severall Parochines. And because Schollars and Students give great scandal and offence in this, That they (being found guilty) be severely disciplined and chastised therefore by their Masters: And in case the Masters of Schools or Colledges be accessorie to the said superstitious profanitie, by their connivence, granting of liberty of Vacance to their Schollars at that time, or any time thereafter, in compensation thereof, That the Masters be summoned by the Ministers of the Place to compeir before the next ensuing Generall Assembly, there to bee censured according to their trespasse: And if Schollars (being guilty) refuse to subject themselves to Correction, or be Fugitives from Discipline, That they be not received in any other Schoole or Colledge within the Kingdom.

_Act for encouragement of Schollars to Professions in Schooles._

In respect of the paucitie of men, fit and willing to professe Divinitie in the Schooles, by reason that few frame their studies that way, The Generall Assembly thinks it fit, That the Provincials diligently consider and try who within their Bounds most probably may bee for a Profession in the Schooles, And report their names to the following Generall Assembly, that such may be stirred up and encouraged by the Generall Assembly, to compose and frame their studies, that they may be fit for such places.

_Act for restraining Abuses at Pennie-Brydals._

The Generall Assembly, considering the great profanitie and severall Abuses which usually fall forth at Pennie-Brydals, proving fruitful Seminaries of all lasciviousnesse and debaushtrie, as well by the excessive number of people conveened thereto, as by the extortion of them therein, and licentiousnesse thereat, To the great dishonour of GOD, the scandall of our Christian Profession, and prejudice of the Countreys welfare; Therefore they Ordain every Presbyterie in this Kingdome, To take such speciall care for restraining these Abuses flowing from the causes foresaid, as they shall think fit in their severall bounds respective: And to take a strict accompt of every Minister and Session of their obedience to the Ordinance of the Presbyterie thereanent, at the Visitation of every Parish Kirk in their Bounds.

_Act Discharging deposed Ministers to be reponed to their former Places._

The Generall Assembly, considering the manifold prejudices redounding to the Kirk in Generall, and private Congregations in particular, through the restoring of Ministers once deposed to the same places wherein formerly they served: As also, how derogatorie it would prove to the weight of that sentence of Deposition; Do therefore Ordain, That no Minister deposed, shall be restored again into that place where formerly he served.

_Renovation of the Commission for the publick Affairs of the Kirk._

The Generall Assembly taking to their consideration, That in respect the great Work of Uniformitie in Religion in all his Majesties Dominions, is not yet perfected, (though by the Lords blessing there is a good progresse made in the same) there is a necessity of renewing the Commissions granted formerly for prosecuting and perfecting that great Work; Doe therefore Renew the Power and Commission granted for the publick Affairs of the Kirk by the Generall Assembly, held in S. Andrews in the year 1642, upon the fifth day of August post meridiem, Sess. 12. And by the Generall Assembly held in Edinburgh in the year 1643, upon the 19. day of August, Sess. ult. And by the late Generall Assembly held at Edinburgh in the year 1644, upon the third of June, Sess. 6, to the Persons afternamed, viz. M. Andrew Ramsay, M. Alex. Henderson, M. Robert Douglas, M. William Colvil, M. William Bennet, M. George Gillespie, M. John Oswald, M. Mungo Law, M. Robert Lawrie, M. John Adamson, D. John Sharp, M. George Leslie, M. Andrew Fairfowle, M. David Calderwood, M. Andrew Blackhall, M. James Fleeming, M. Robert Ker, M. John Macghie, M. John Dalyell, M. Andrew Stevenson, M. Robert Lauder, M. James Robertson, M. Patrick Sibbald, M. Robert Carson, M. Alex. Spittall, M. Alex. Dickison, M. James Smith, M. John Gibbison, M. James Symson, M. Ephraim Melvill, M. Alex. Somervell, M. Robert Eliot, M. George Bennet, M. Robert Blair, M. David Forret, M. Arthur Mortoun, M. Samuel Rutherfurd, D. Alex. Colvill, M. Andrew Bennet, M. James Wedderburn, M. Walter Greg, M. John Moncreiff, M. John Smith, M. Frederick Carmichael, M. Patrick Gillespie, M. John Duncan, M. James Sibbald, M. Robert Bruce, M. John Hume at Eccles, M. Mungo Dalyell, M. Alex. Kinneir, M. Thomas Ramsay, M. William Turnbull, M. James Guthrie, M. Thomas Donaldson, M. William Jameson, M. David Fletcher, Andrew Dunkison, M. Robert Murray, M. David Weemes, M. John Hall, M. John Freebairn, M. David Drummond at Creiff, M. George Murray, M. Henry Guthrie, M. Robert Wright, M. Andrew Jaffray, M. Bernard Sanderson, M. Alex. Tran, M. Thomas Chalmers, M. Andrew Lawder, M. Hugh Henderson, M. John Levingstoun, M. James Blair, M. James Bonar, M. John Burne, M. John Bell, M. Hugh Mackale, M. Matthew Birsbane, M. David Elphingstoun, M. David Dickson, M. George Young, D. John Strang, M. Robert Baillie, M. Patrick Sharp, M. Robert Birnie, M. Evan Camron, M. George Symmer at Megle, M. Andrew Fleck, M. Patrick Lyon, M. John Lindsay, M. Sylvester Lammie, M. George Fogo, M. David Strachan, M. Andrew Cant, M. William More, M. William Davidson, M. John Paterson, M. William Jaffray, M. Thomas Mitchell, M. George Cummin, M. Joseph Brodie, M. William Lawder, M. David Rosse, M. Ferquhard Makclennan, _Ministers_; And Archbald Marquesse of Argyle, John Earle of Crawfurd-Lindsay, Alexander Earle of Eglintoun, William Earle of Glencarne, John Earle of Cassils, Charles Earle of Dumfermeling, James Earle of Tullibardin, John Earle of Lauderdale, James Earle of Annandale, William Earle of Lothian, James Earle of Queenesberry, William Earle of Dalhousie, William Earle of Lanerik, Archbald Lord Angus, Vicount of Arbuthnet, James Vicount of Frendraught, Alexander Lord Garleis, James Lord Johnstoun, John Lord Yester, John Lord Balmerino, Alexander Lord Balcarras, John Lord Loure, John Lord Barganie, Sir Patrick Hepburn of Wauchtoun, Sir John Hope of Craighall, Sir Archbald Johnstoun of Waristoun, Sir David Hume of Wedderburn, Frederick Lyon of Brigtoun, Sir Alexander Areskine of Dun, Alexander Fraser of Phillorth, Sir William Baillie of Lammingtoun, Haddin of Glennegies, Sir Thomas Ruthven of Freeland, James Macdougall of Garthland, Sir Alexander Murray of Blackbarronie, William Drummond of Rickartoun, Sir William Scott of Hardin, Sir Andrew Ker of Greenhead, Sir William Stuart of ______ Sir Alexander Shaw of Sauchie, Alexander Brodie of that Ilk, M. George Hume of Kimmerjame, Sir John Smith, M. Alexander Colvill Justice Depute, John Binnie, Archbald Sydserf, Laurence Henderson, James Stuart, Gilbert Sommervell, John Semple, M. Robert Barclay, Patrick Leslie, James Law, M. Robert Cuninghame, George Gardin, William Glendunning, _Elders_. And for discharging the said Commission, Appoints the persons aforesaid, or any ninteene of them, whereof fifteen shall be Ministers, to meet at Edinburgh upon the 14. of this moneth of February and upon the second Wednesday of May, August, November, and of February next to come, and upon any other day, or in any other Place they shall think meet. Giving unto them full power and Commission to do all and every thing for prosecuting, advancing, perfecting, and bringing the said Work of Uniformity in Religion in all his Majesties Dominions to an happy conclusion, conforme to the former Commissions granted by the saids Assemblies thereanent: And further, Renewes to the Persons afore-named, the power contained in the Act of the said Assembly, 1643, Intituled, A Reference to the Commission anent the Persons designed to repair to the Kingdom of England; As also the power contained in two severall Acts of the said late Assembly 1644. Sess. 6. made Against secret dis-affecters of the Covenant, and, For sending Ministers to the Army: With full power to them, to treat and determine in the matters aforesaid, and in all other matters referred unto them by this Assembly, as fully and freely, as if the same were here particularly expressed, and with as ample power as any Commission of former Generall Assemblies hath had, or been in use of before; They being alwayes for their whole proceedings countable to, and censurable by the next Generall Assembly.

_Renovation of the Commission to the Persons appointed to repair to
the Kingdom of England, for prosecuting the Treaty of Uniformitie in
Religion._

The Generall Assembly, Taking to their consideration, that the Treaty of Uniformity in Religion in all his Majesties Dominions is not yet perfected, though by the Lords blessing there is a good progresse made in the same, Do therefore Renew the Power and Commission granted to the Persons formerly nominate by the two preceding Assemblies, and by their Commissioners sitting at Edinburgh; for prosecuting the said Treatie of Uniformitie with the Honourable Houses of the Parliament of England, and the Reverend Assembly of Divines there, or any Committees appointed by them, Giving unto them full power to do all and every thing which may advance, perfect, and bring the said Treatie to an happy conclusion, conforme to the former Commissions granted to them thereanent.

_The Generall Assemblies Answer to the Right Reverend the Assembly of Divines in the Kirk of England._

Right Reverend and welbeloved
in the Lord Jesus,

Amidst the manifold troubles in which this Kingdome hath been involved, and under which it still laboureth, we greatly rejoyced when it was testified unto us by our reverend Brethren, and under your hands in your Letter, and these Papers by them presented to us from you, what progresse you had made in the much desired Work of Uniformitie; and acknowledge, that the same hath comforted us concerning our work and toile of our hands, and seemeth to us as an olive branch, to prognosticate the abating of the waters, which overflow the face of the Earth.

When we consider, that you have walked in pathes unusuall, which have not been haunted by Travellers there, as the publick way, though pointed out as the good old way by the Reformed Kirks, we do not wonder that you have carefully adverted in every step to set foot upon sure ground; When we behold that strong and high tree of Episcopacie so deeply rooted by continuance of time not lopped of the Branches, and the stumpe of the root left in the Earth, with a band of iron and brasse, but pluckt up by the roots; We do confesse that the Carpenters, though prepared, have a hard task, requiring time to hew it down, and root it up: And when we call to minde how much the Service-Book hath been cryed up as the only way of GODS Worship, how many thereby have had their wealth, and how difficill it is to forgoe the accustomed way; We admire the power and wisdom of the good GOD who hath prospered you in your way, and led you this length, through so many straits, and over so many difficulties in so troublous a time.

We do for our part not only admit and allow, but most heartily and gladly embrace the Directory of Worship, as a common Rule for the Kirks of GOD in the three Kingdoms, now more straitly and firmly united by the Solemne League and Covenant; And we do all in one voice blesse the Lord, who hath put it in the hearts, first, of the Reverend, Learned, and Pious Assembly of Divines, and then, of the Honourable Houses of Parliament, To agree upon such a Directory as doth remove what is none of Christs, and preserve the purity of all his Ordinances, together with Uniformity and Peace in the Kirk. Only we have thought necessary, to declare and make known, That the Clause in the Directory for the administration of the Lords Supper, which appointeth the Table to be so placed that the Communicants may orderly sit about it, or at it, is not to be interpreted, as if in the judgement of this Kirk it were indifferent for any of the communicants not to come to and receive at the Table; or as if we did approve the distributing of the Elements by the Ministers to each Communicant, and not by the Communicants among themselves: In which particulars, we still conceive and beleeve the order and practice of our own Kirk, To be most agreeable and sutable to the Word of GOD, the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the nature of that Heavenly Feast and Table. Neverthelesse, in other particulars we have resolved, and do agree, to do as ye have desired us in your Letter, That is, not to be tenacious of old Customs, though lawfull in themselves, and not condemned in this Directory, but to lay them aside for the nearer Uniformitie with the Kirk of England, now nearer and dearer to us than ever before; A Blessing so much esteemed, and so earnestly longed for among us, that rather than it faile on our part, we do most willingly part with such practices and customs of our own, as may be parted with safely, and without the violation of any of Christs Ordinances, or trespassing against Scripturall Rules, or our solemne Covenants.

We do in like manner agree to, and approve the Propositions touching Kirk-government and Ordination; and have given power to our Commissioners who are to meet in Edinburgh, to agree to, and conclude in our Name an Uniformitie therein, betwixt the Kirks in both Kingdoms, so soon as the same shall be without any substantiall alteration Ratified by an Ordinance of the Honourable Houses of the Parliament of England, according to our Act of Approbation sent to our Commissioners with you.

As for the returning of our Commissioners; though the counsel and assistance of our Reverend Brethren might be of good use to us in these difficult times, and their particular stations and imployments importune the stay of these who are come unto us, and the returne of these who stay with you; yet preferring the publick good, and looking upon the profit may redound unto all by their continuing with you, we have satisfied your desire, and renewed their commission; Praying GOD they may (as we are confident they shall) prove answerable to our trust, and to your expectation.

Concerning one Confession of Faith, and Forme of Catechisme, we apprehend no great difficultie. And to that which remains to be perfected in the matter of Kirk-government, we do beleeve, and both you and we know by experience, that there is no word impossible with our God. He that hath begun a good work among you, will also perform it of his good pleasure. Go on in the Lord your strength and the Spirit of truth lead you in all truth: The God of all grace and peace that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting Covenant, and by him hath called us unto his eternall glory, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you, and by you, and among you, that which is well pleasing in his sight, stablish, strengthen, settle you, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

_Subscribed in name of the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland,
by the Moderator of the Assembly._

Edinburgh 13 Feb. 1645.

_To the Kings Most Excellent Majestie, The humble Remonstrance of the
Generall Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, met at Edinburgh the 13
day of February, 1645._

As our Record is on high, and our consciences within us bear us witnesse, so the many former Supplications and Remonstrances to your Majestie, from this Kirk and Kingdome, our solemne Covenants, and the whole course of our proceedings from time to time in the prosecution of this Cause, Do make known to the World, and we trust also to your own conscience, our loyaltie and faithfull subjection, and how far our intentions are from the diminution of your Majesties just Power and Greatnesse; And although the successe of many of our humble addresses to your Majesty, hath been such as did frustrate our desires and hopes, yet this hath not blotted out of our hearts our loyaltie, so often professed before God and the World; but it is still our Souls desire, and our Prayer to God for you, that your Self and your Posterity may prosperously reigne over this your ancient and Native Kingdome, and over your other Dominions. And now as we have published a solemn and free Warning to the Noblemen, Barons, Gentlemen, Burrows, Ministers, and Commons of this Kingdome, concerning the present affliction of this Nation, and their sins procuring the same; So when we call to minde, that God accepteth not the persons of men, and that the greatest are not to be winked at in their sins; We assure our selves, that the best and most reall testimony which we can give at this present, of the tendernesse and uprightnesse of our affection to your Majesties true Happinesse, is this our humble and faithfull Representation of your Majesties great and growing dangers, and the causes thereof; Of which, if we should be silent, our consciences would condemne us, and the stones themselves would immediately cry out.

The troubles of our hearts are enlarged, and our fears increased in your Majesties behalf, perceiving that your Peoples patience is above measure tempted, and is like a Cart prest down with sheaves, and ready to break, while as beside many former designes and endeavours to bring desolation and destruction upon us, (which were (and we trust all of that kinde shall be) by the marvellous and mercifull providence of God discovered and disappointed.) Our Countrey in now infested, the blood of divers of our Brethren spilt, and other acts of most barbarous and horrid cruelty exercised, by the cursed crew of the Irish Rebels and their Complices in this Kingdome, under the conduct of such as have Commission and Warrant from your Majestie. And unlesse we prove unfaithfull both to God and to your Majestie, we cannot conceale another danger which is infinitely greater than that of your Peoples displeasure: Therefore we the servants of the most high GOD, and your Majesties most loyall Subjects, in the humility and grief of our hearts, fall down before your Throne, and in the Name of our Lord and Master JESUS CHRIST, who shall judge the world in righteousnesse, both great and small, and in the Name of this whole Nationall Kirk, which we represent, We make bold to warn your Majesty freely, that the guilt which cleaveth fast to your Majesty and to your Throne, is such, as (whatsoever flattering preachers, or unfaithfull counsellours may say to the contrary) if not timely repented, cannot but involve your Self and your Posterity under the wrath of the ever-living GOD, For your being guiltie of the shedding of the blood of many thousands of your Majesties best Subjects; For your permitting the Masse, and other Idolatry, both in your own Family, and in your Dominions; For your authorizing by the Book of Sports, the profanation of the Lords Day; For your not punishing of publick scandals, and much profanenesse, in, and about your Court; For the shutting of your eares from the humble and just desires of your faithfull Subjects; For your complying too much with the Popish party many wayes, and namely, by concluding the Cessation of Armes in Ireland, and your embracing the counsels of those who have not set GOD nor your good before their eyes; For your resisting and opposing this Cause, which so much concerneth the glory of GOD, your own honour and happinesse, and the peace and safetie of your Kingdomes; and for what other causes your Majesty is most conscious, and may best judge and search your own conscience (nor would we have mentioned any particulars, if they had not been publike and knowne.) For all which it is high time for your Majesty to fall down at the footstool of the King of Glory, to acknowledge your offence, to repent timely, to make your peace with GOD through JESUS CHRIST, (whose blood is able to wash away your great sinne) and to be no longer unwilling that the Son of GOD reign over you and your Kingdoms in his pure Ordinances of Church-government and Worship. These things if your Majesty do, it shall be no grief of heart unto you afterward, a blessing is reserved for you, and you shall finde favour with GOD, and with your People, and with all the Churches of Christ; But if your Majesty refuse to hearken to this wholsome counsell (which the Lord forbid) we have discharged our own consciences, we take GOD and Men to witnesse That we are blamelesse of the sad Consequences which may follow, and we shall wait upon the Lord, who, when he maketh inquisition for blood, will not forget the cry of the humble. In the mean while, beseeching your Majesty to take notice That we are not staggering or fainting through diffidence of the successe of this Cause and Covenant of the three Kingdoms, unto which, as GOD hath already given manifold Testimonies of his favour and blessing; so it is our stedfast and unshaken confidence, that this is the Work and Cause of GOD, which shall gloriously prevail against all opposition, and from which, with the assistance of the grace of GOD, we shall never suffer our selves to be divided or withdrawn, but shall zealously and constantly in our severall Vocations, endeavour with our Estates and Lives, the pursuing and promoving thereof.

That which we have concluded concerning Uniformity in Religion between both Kingdoms, is to be humbly offered to your Majestie from the Commissioners of this Kingdom, for your Royall Consent and Ratification. Although your Majestie was not pleased to vouchsafe us the presence of your Commissioner, according to the supplication of the Commissioners of the preceding Generall Assembly, yet we have proceeded with as much respect to your Majesties honour, and as much remembrance of our duty, as if your Royall Person had been present in the mids of us: And we shall still continue our Prayers for you, that GOD would graciously incline your heart to the counsels of Truth and Peace, and grant unto your Majestie a long and happy Raign, that we may live under you a peaceable and quiet life, in all Godlinese and Honestie.

_The Assemblies Answer to their Commissioners at London._

REVEREND AND BELOVED BRETHREN,

These sweet Fruits of your long continued Labours in the Work of the Lord entrusted to you, brought to us at this time by these two of your number, whom you were pleased to send, were received by us with no small joy and rejoycing, as being, in great part, the satisfaction of our Souls desire, in that so much longed for, so much prayed for happy Uniformity of these Kirks and Kingdoms: And an evident Demonstration to us, that the Lord hath not, even in this time of his seen and felt displeasure, so covered himself with the cloud of his anger, that our Prayers should not passe through.

The great and main difficulties through which the Lord hath carried this Work, as we do acknowledge, ought mainly to be made use of, for the praise and glory of his power, who is the great worker of all our works for us; So your overcoming of them is to us no small Demonstration of your zeal, wisdom, and faithfulnesse, which without great injurie both to the Lord the prime Worker, and to you his Instruments, we cannot but acknowledge, hath been much manifested in the whole managing of this work in your hands.

The full answer to all the particulars you write of in your Letters, we leave to the Relation of those that come from you, and are now appointed to return to you: And as with much thankfulnesse we acknowledge your fidelity in what ye have done already; so we have again renewed your Commission for the continuance of your Imployment there, for the perfecting of the Work so happily begun: For the furthering whereof, as we shall not be wanting in our prayers to GOD for his blessing upon your labours, so for your help and assistance, we have appointed a commission to sit at Edinburgh, to which at all occasions you may have your recourse, as the exigence of the Work shall require.

How satisfactory that Directory of Worship presented to us by our Brethren from you, was to us, we leave it rather to their relation at their return, being ear and eye-witnesses to the manifold expressions of our joy and gladnesse, then offer to represent it to you in a Letter. The Act herewith sent, and ordained to be prefixed unto the Directory, will sufficiently declare our hearty approbation of it: Our judgement also concerning the propositions of Government and Ordination, and our earnest desire to have the Work of Uniformity promoved and perfected in that particular also, will appear to you by the other Act which herewith you will receive: Our zeal and desire to have that Work fully closed with so much harmonie as becometh the Work of GOD, will appear to you in our resolution and answer to that particular in the point of Excommunication, concerning which you write.

These particular differences hinted at in the Assemblies Letter, for Uniformitie with that Kirk so much endeared to us, we have resolved to lay aside, and have taken course for preserving harmonie amongst our selves, whereof our Brethren will give you more particular account. Anent your desire of Mr Alexander Henderson his attending the Treatie, we are confident ere this you have received our resolution.

Amidst the many difficulties wherewith it pleaseth the Lord to presse us, as we thought it necessar to publish and send forth a Warning to all sorts of Persons in this Kirk and Kingdom, concerning the present affliction of this Nation, and their sins procuring the same; So we thought it incumbent to us in duty, as the best Testimony which we can give at this present to his Majesty, to remonstrate unto him faithfully The great and growing dangers his Majesty is now under, and the causes thereof. This Remonstrance we have sent to you, to be presented to his Majesty, by such means, and at such time, as you who are there upon the place shall judge fittest.

And now dear Brethren, go on with cheerfulnesse in the Work of the Lord: Let no discouragement or opposition make your heart to faint, or your hands wax feeble: Perswade your self the Lords hand shall still be made known toward his servants, and his indignation against his Enemies. Remember the Work is his, who useth not to begin, but also to make an end, and is abundantly able to supply all your need according to the riches of his glory. Be confident therefore of this thing, that he who hath begun this good Work by you, will also in due time accomplish it to his own praise. To his gracious assistance we heartily recommend you.

_Subscribed in name of the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland,
by the Moderator of the Assembly._

POSTSCRIPT.—It is earnestly desired That the Directorie for Worship be sent to Ireland, and that you recommend to the honourable Houses of the Parliament, To think upon the best way for the establishment and practice of it in that Kingdom. And that the like course may be taken with the government, and other parts of the Uniformity, so soon as they shall be agreed upon.

Edinburgh 13 Feb. 1645.

The Generall Assembly Recommends to Presbyteries, To consider these matters referred to their consideration by preceding Assemblies; and to report their judgement therein to the next Assembly.

The Generall Assembly Appoints the meeting of the next Assembly to be at Edinburgh the first Wednesday of June, in the yeer 1646.

INDEX _of the_ ACTS _of this_ ASSEMBLY. _Not Printed._

1.—The Remonstrance sent to the Kings Majestie from the Commissioners of the preceding Assembly, concerning the dyet, and occasion of the meeting of this Assembly. _Sess._ 1.

2.—Election of M. Robert Douglas Moderator. _Ib._

3.—Report of M. Robert Baillie, and M. Geo. Gillespie, of the progresse of the Treatie for Uniformity. _Sess._ 2.

4.—Appointment of Committees for the Directory, and for Bills, Appeals, &c. _Ib._

5.—Ref. of the Petitions from Ireland to the Committee of Bills. _Sess._ 3.

6.—Letter to M. James Martin for intimating the Deposition of M. William Barclay. _Ib._

7.—Acts appointing M. James Nasmith to attend the Lord Montgomeries Regiment; M. Arthur Granger, Liev. Generall Baillie his Regiment; and M. Thomas Wilkie to the E. Lothians Regiment. _Ib._

8.—Ref. of the Lord Gen. Letter to the Presbytery of Edinburgh. _Ib._

9.—Ref. of the Petition of M. James Hammiltons wife to the Committee for the Directory. _Ib._

10.—Recommendation to the Parliament for Ministers losses. _Sess._ 4.

11.—Committee concerning Bursars. _Ib._

12.—Committee to conferre with the Lord Ogilvie. _Sess._ 5.

13.—Act ordaining the Presbytery of Hammiltoun to proceed against M. John Rae for refusing the Covenant. With an Ordinance for giving in to the Clerk the report of M. John Hammiltouns subscribing the Covenant, and of the Excommunication of D. Hammiltoun. _Ib._

14.—Act discharging the relaxation of Nath. Gordoun, with a reference concerning the same to the Commissioners of this Assembly. _Ib._

15.—Committee for examining the witnesses against M. John Robertson, and M. John Fyfe. _Ib._

16.—The Solemne League and Covenant of the three Kingdomes, (which is not here printed, because already printed by Ordinance of the Commission of Assembly 1643. and universally subscribed) with an Approbation of the Ordinances, and the diligence of the Commissioners of Assembly for receiving thereof, &c. _Ib._

17.—Committee concerning Col. Areskines Regiment. _Sess._ 6.

18.—Committee appointed to speak with Col. Monro, concerning Letters sent from the Officers of the Army in Ireland. _Ib._

19.—Committee for examining witnesses against M. James Oliphant. _Ib._

20.—Invitation of all who had scruples concerning the Directory, to addresse themselves to that Committee, with a reference to the said Committee concerning uniformity of practice of the Directory in this Kirk. _Ib._

21.—Committee to conferre with the young Laird of Drum. _Ib._

22.—Appointment of M. Hugh Henryson to Col. Stuarts Regiment. _Sess._ 7.

23.—Committee for hearing M. James Wood, and the Commissioners from S. Andrews and Aberdene. _Ib._

24.—Recommendation of Barbara Means Petition to the Parliament. _Ib._

25.—Recommendation to the Parliament concerning the Army in Ireland. _Ib._

26.—Invitation again of all that had scruples or doubts concerning the Directory, to addresse themselves to the Committee for resolution. _Ib._

27.—Recommendation to the Parliament of the Petition of the Hospitall of Leith. _Sess._ 8.

28.—Recommendation to the Parliament of the Petition of the Kirk of Drummen. _Ib._

29.—Refer. of the Petition from the Northwest parts of Ireland to the Committee of Bills. _Ib._

30.—Recom. for a charitable supply to the people in and about Borrowstounnesse, visited with the plague. _Ib._

31.—Transportation of M. James Wood to S. Andrews. _Ib._

32.—Commission for Masters Alexander Blair Minister at Galstoun, Robert Hammiltoun Minister at Ballentrae, to go to Ireland for the first three moneths, beginning the first day of July. Masters Samuel Row Minister at Kirkmabrek, Alexander Levingstoun Minister at Carmichael for the next three moneths, beginning the first day of October: and Masters Henry Colwart Minister at Pasley, and Henry Semple Minister at Killearne, beginning the first of January next. _Sess._ 9.

33.—Act for Ministers to the Earle of Lanerick’s Regiment of Horse. _Ib._

34.—Sentence absolvitour of Master James Lichtoun. _Ib._

35.—Act for Ministers to L. Balgonie and L. Kirkcudbrights Regiments. _Ib._

36.—Committee for Colon. Areskines Regiment. _Ib._

37.—Committee for conferring with the Laird of Drums second son, and their report. _Sess._ 10.

38.—The Directory for publick Worship in the three Kingdoms. _Ib._

39.—Committee for presenting the Directory to the Parliament. _Ib._

40.—Act for planting the Kirk of Tarbet. _Ib._

41.—Committee appointed to assist the Petition given in to the Parliament, for trying and executing some Witches. _Sess._ 11.

42.—Committee appointed to visit young Drum. _Ib._

43.—Refer. to the Commission at Edinburgh, for planting the Kirk of Hammiltoun. _Ib._

44.—Exemption of M. Alexander Balnaves, from going to Kirkcudbrights Regiment. _Ib._

45.—Refer. to the Commission at Edinburgh, for planting the Kirk of Mauchline. _Ib._

46.—Committee appointed for considering the best means for planting the Kirk and new Colledge of Aberdene. _Ib._

47.—My Lord Angus, and the Laird of Lammingtouns submission to the Assembly, with the Assemblies determination, concerning the planting of the Kirk of Lammingtoun. _Ib._

48.—Recom. of M. Andro Macghie to the Presbyterie of Hadingtoun. _Ib._

49.—Recom. of M. William Young to the Presbyterie of Glasgow. _Ib._

50.—Recom. concerning the new Kirk of Carsfarne to the Parliament. _Ib._

51.—Committee appointed to consider of the way for Printing M. Rob. Boyd of Trochrigs Works. _Ib._

52.—Ref. to the Commission at Edinburgh, for revising the Labours of a Brother, upon the continuation of the History of this Kirk, and thereafter to cause Print them with consent of the Authour. _Ib._

53.—Approbation of the Report, concerning the injuries done to M. John Burne in London-Darie, with a Recom. thereof to the Parliament, and a Letter to the Commissioners at London. _Sess._ 12.

54.—Two Acts concerning James Murray. _Ib._

55.—Appointment of the Commissioners of Presbyteries, to give in a lite of the Excommunicate Persons within their bounds to the Clerk. _Ib._

56.—Committee for assisting the Petition to the Parliament, for the necessities of the Army in Ireland. _Ib._

57.—Recom. of M. John Williamson to the Presbyterie of Saint Andrews. _Ib._

58.—Tryall of the Books of the Synods of Lothian, Dumfreis, Glasgow, Aberdene, and Rosse, which were onely produced. _Ib._

59.—Admission of the Excuses for not production of the Bookes of Fyfe, Angus, and Perth. _Ib._

60.—Recom. of Sir James Hopes Petition to the Presbyterie of Lanrick. _Ib._

61.—Recom. to the Parliament, concerning Suspensions against Ministers and Universities. _Ib._

62.—Recom. of M. Thomas Boyd to the Presbyterie of Glasgow. _Ib._

63.—Recom. M. John Bruce to the Parliament and Commission, for Plantation of Kirks. _Ib._

64.—Recom. of the Petition of the Synod of Galloway to the Parliament, concerning Thomas Mackee. _Ib._

65.—Recom. of the Petition of the Inhabitants of the Chanrie of Rosse to the Parliament, and to the Commission for planting of Kirks. _Ib._

66.—Recom. of the Petition of M. Archbald Maccorquodill, Student in S. Andrews, to D. Colvill Professour of Divinity there. _Ib._

67.—Recom. of the Petition of the Parochiners of Pasley to the Commis. of Parl. for planting Kirks. _Ib._

68.—Recom. of M. Robert Torres to the Commission of Parliament, for Plantation of Kirks. _Ib._

69.—Recom. to the Parliament, of the Petition of the Ministers upon the Borders, concerning the insolencie of Moss-Troupers. _Ib._

70.—Recom. of the Petition of the unprovided Ministers within the Provinces of Aberdene, Murray, and Rosse to the Parliament, and Commission of Parliament for Plantation of Kirks. _Ib._

71.—Recom. to the Parliament, for changing the Fairs upon Mundayes to some other day. _Ib._

72.—Ref. to the Presbyterie of Lochmaben, for going on in the processe against M. Geo. Pryde. With a Recom. to E. Hartfell, to possesse the Minister to the Kirk, And concerning M. Tho. Chambers Gleib. _Ib._

73.—Two Letters from the Commissioners at London. _Sess._ 13.

74.—Act authorizing Master Alexander Henderson to assist the Commissioners of Parliament in the Treatie at Uxbridge, in matters concerning Religion. _Ib._

75.—Ref. of the Proposition concerning Excommunication to the Committee for the Directory. _Ib._

76.—Ref. of the Propositions concerning Government to the Committee for the Directory. _Ib._

77.—Deposition of M. George Halyburtoun. _Ib._

78.—Renovation of the Commission, for trying and censuring the Ryot of Stanikirk. _Sess._ 14.

79.—Renovation of the Commission, for visiting the Universitie of S. Andrews. _Ib._

80.—Renovation of the Commission, for visiting the Universitie of Glasgow. _Ib._

81.—Indiction of a Fast. _Ib._

82.—Committee for presenting the Petition to the Parliament. _Ib._

83.—Act for a Minister to preach to the Lord Uchiltrie in the Blacknesse. _Ib._

84.—Ordinance for M. James Campbell, his attending my Lord Coupers Regiment. _Ib._

85.—Invitation of any that had doubts concerning the Propositions of Government, &c. to come to the Committee for Resolution. _Ib._

86.—Ordinance for M. John Govans repairing to my Lord Kirkcudbrights Regiment. _Ib._

87.—Recom. to the Presbyteries of Linlithgow and Stirling, for a voluntar Contribution of Clothes to the Earl of Calendars Regiment. _Ib._

88.—Act for admitting M. James Levingstoun Minister to the E. of Calendars Regiment. _Ib._

89.—Ordinance for M. John Hoomes attendance for the E. of Lanricks Regiment of Foot. _Ib._

90.—Ref. to the Presbyterie of Peebles, to consider M. Robert Scots Bill, and to appoint another of their number to Balgonies Regiment, in case his reasons be found good. _Sess._ 15.

91.—Ref. M. Alexander Robertson to the Commission at Edinburgh. _Ib._

92.—Act concerning the admission of M. David Houstoun to the Kirk of Tyrie. _Ib._

93.—Deposition of M. John Grahame. _Ib._

94.—Recom. of the Petition concerning the Kirk of Logie-Montrose to the Parliament, or their Commission for the Plantation of Kirks. _Ib._

95.—Recom. of M. James Hammiltoun his reliefe to the Parliament. _Sess._ 16.

96.—The Propositions of Government and Ordination. _Ib._

97.—Act concerning the Printing of M. Robert Boyds Commentar upon the Ephesians. _Ib._

98.—Act discharging the Printing or Re-printing of the said Commentarie, and of the continuation of the History of the Kirk, and of M. David Dicksons short Explication of the Apostolicall Epistles, without the consent of M. John Boyd, and of the Authors of the other Works respective, With a Recommendation to the Parliament for their authority to that effect. _Ib._

99.—Warrant for Printing M. Robert Boyds Opuscula. _Ib._

100.—Recommendation of the Kirk of Calder to the Parliament. _Ib._

101.—Recommendation of the petition of M. Alexander Trotter to the Commission of Parliament for plantation of Kirks. _Ib._

102.—Reference to the Commission at Edinburgh for petitioning the Parliament That Commissions may be granted for visitation of Hospitals in every Province. _Ib._

103.—Recommendation to the Synod of Aberdene, to crave account of the Laird of Drum his Bursars, and of any others in that Province. _Ib._

104.—Sentence absolvitour of M. James Oliphant, with a rebuke and admonition of the particulars proven. _Ib._

105.—Recommendation of M. John Weirs wifes Bill to the Parliament. _Ib._

106.—Act giving Warrant to the Commissioners at London, to agree to the clause concerning Excommunication. _Sess._ 17.

107.—Act concerning the Earl of Athols right of presenting to the Kirk of Blair in Athol. _Ib._

108.—Reference of a Bigamist to the Justice. _Ib._

109.—Act giving power to M. John Stuart to preach at the Kirk of Dungarth, as an Expectant, while the Presbytery or Synod sit. _Ib._

110.—Recommendation to the Parliament concerning Thomas Mackie. _Ib._

111.—Act for intimating M. George Halyburtouns deposition. _Ib._

112.—Act concerning the planting of the Kirk of Aberdour. _Ib._

113.—Suspension of M. John Robertson. With a Reference to the Commission at Edinburgh for his further tryal and censure. _Ib._

114.—Deposition of M. John Fyfe. _Ib._

115.—Recom. M. Samuel Rows petition to the Parliament. _Ib._

116.—Commission for visitation of the University of Aberdene. _Ib._

117.—Act for changing the Presbytery seat of Aberdene, from the old Town, to the new Town of Aberdene. _Ib._

118.—Recommen. and Reference to the Commission at Edinburgh, for planting the Kirk and Colledge of Aberdene. _Ib._

119.—Reference of the petition given in by M. Thomas Mitchel, from the Presbytery of Turreff, and the Vicount of Frendraught for himself, and in name of the Parochiners of Aberchirdour and Innerkethin, to the Commission appointed for visitation of the University of Aberdene. _Sess._ 18.

120.—Ref. of the Petition of the Commissioners of the Presbytery of Strabogie to the said Commission for visitation of Aberdene. _Ib._

121.—Recom. to the Parliament of M. George Wisharts Bill for his maintenance. _Ib._

122.—Ref. to the Commission at Edinburgh, for planting the Kirks of Edinburgh with three Ministers out of the Province of Lothian. _Ib._

123.—Ref. to the said Commission at Aberdene, for tryall and censure of Master George Hannah. _Ib._

124.—Ordinance for Master Alexander Moncreiffs repairing to my Lord Balcarras Regiment. _Ib._

125.—Committee for presenting the Propositions of Government, and of the solemne Warning, to the Parliament. _Ib._

126.—Recom. of Isabel Peebles Bill to the Parliament, and the Committee of losses. _Ib._