Chapter LXII: Act 131: , Par. 8, K. Ja. 6, and the subjects’ liberties, who ought (59)

A Confession of Faith for the Kirks of God in the three Kingdomes, being the chiefest part of that Uniformity in Religion which by the Solemne League and Covenant we are bound to endeavour; And there being accordingly a Confession of Faith agreed upon by the Assembly of Divines sitting at Westminster, with the assistance of Commissioners from the Kirk of Scotland; Which Confession was sent from our Commissioners at London to the Commissioners of the Kirk met at Edinburgh in January last, and hath been in this Assembly twice publikely read over, examined, and considered; Copies thereof being also Printed, that it might be particularly perused by all the Members of this Assembly, unto whom frequent intimation was publikely made, to put in their doubts and objections if they had any; And the said Confession being upon due examination thereof found by the Assembly to bee most agreable to the Word of God, and in nothing contrary to the received Doctrine, Worship, Discipline, and Government of this Kirk: And lastly, it being so necessary and so much longed for, That the said Confession be with all possible diligence and expedition approved and established in both Kingdoms, as a principall part of the intended Uniformity in Religion, and as a speciall means for the more effectuall suppressing of the many dangerous errours and heresies of these times; The Generall Assembly doth therefore after mature deliberation Agree unto and Approve the said Confession as to the truth of the matter (judging it to be most orthodox and grounded upon the Word of God) and also as to the point of Uniformity, Agreeing for our part that it be a common Confession of Faith for the three Kingdoms. The Assembly doth also blesse the Lord, and thankfully acknowledge his great mercy, in that so excellent a Confession of Faith is prepared, and thus far agreed upon in both Kingdomes; which we look upon as a great strengthning of the true Reformed Religion against the common enemies thereof. But lest our intention and meaning be in some particulars misunderstood, It is hereby expressly Declared and Provided, that the not mentioning in this Confession the severall sorts of Ecclesiasticall Officers and Assemblies, shall be no prejudice to the Truth of Christ in these particulars to be expressed fully in the Directory of Government. It is further Declared, that the Assembly understandeth some parts of the second Article of the thirty one Chapter, only of Kirks not settled or constituted in point of Government; And that although in such Kirks, a Synod of Ministers and other fit persons may be called by the Magistrates authority and nomination without any other Call, to consult and advise with about matters of Religion; And although likewise the Ministers of Christ without delegation from their Churches, may of themselves, and by vertue of their Office meet together Synodically in such Kirks not yet constituted; Yet neither of these ought to be done in Kirks constituted and setled: It being alwayes free to the Magistrate to advise with Synods of Ministers and ruling Elders meeting upon delegation from their Churches, either ordinarily, or being indicted by his Authority occasionally and _pro re nata_; It being also free to assemble together Synodically, as well _pro re nata_, as at the ordinary times upon delegation from the Churches, by the intrinsicall power received from Christ, as often as it is necessary for the good of the Church so to assemble, in case the Magistrate to the detriment of the Church withhold or deny his consent, the necessity of occasionall Assemblies being first remonstrate unto him by humble supplication.

Edinburgh, 28 August, 1647. Ante Meridiem. Sess. XXV.

_Act for revising the Paraphrase of the Psalmes brought from England,
with a recommendation for Translating the other Scripturall Songs in
Meeter._

The Generall Assembly, having considered the report of the Committee, concerning the Paraphrase of the Psalmes sent from England: And finding that it is very necessary, that the said Paraphrase be yet revised; Therefore doth appoint Master John Adamson to examine the first fourty Psalmes, Master Thomas Craufurd the second fourty, Master John Row the third fourty, and Master John Nevey the last thirty Psalms of that Paraphrase; and in their Examination they shall not only observe what they think needs to be amended, but also to set downe their own essay for correcting thereof: And for this purpose recommends to them, to make use of the travels of Rowallen, Master Zachary Boyd, or of any other on that subject, but especially of our own Paraphrase, that what they finde better in any of these Works may be chosen: and likewise they shall make use of the animadversions sent from Presbyteries, who for this cause are hereby desired to hasten their observations unto them; And they are to make report of their labours herein to the Commission of the Assembly for publike affaires against their first meeting in February next: And the Commission after revising thereof, shall send the same to Provinciall Assemblies, to bee transmitted to Presbyteries, that by their further consideration, the matter may be fully prepared to the next Assembly: And because some Psalmes in that Paraphrase sent from England are composed in verses which do not agree with the Common-tunes, Therefore it is also recommended that these Psalms be likewise turned in other verses which may agree to the Common-tunes, that is, having the first line of eight syllabs, and the second line of six, that so both versions being together, use may bee made of either of them in Congregations as shall be found convenient: And the Assembly doth further recommend, That M. Zachary Boyd be at the paines to translate the other Scripturall Songs in meeter, and to report his travels also to the Commission of Assembly, that after their Examination thereof, they may send the same to Presbyteries to be there considered untill the next Generall Assembly.

_Act recommending the execution of the Act of Parliament at Perth,
for uplifting pecuniall paines to bee imployed upon pious uses, and
of all Acts of Parliament made against excommunicate Persons._

The Generall Assembly doth seriously Recommend and Ordaine, That Presbyteries diligently endeavour that the ninth Act of the Parliament holden at Perth, Anno 1645, Concerning the uplifting of pecuniall paines to bee imployed upon pious uses, may bee put to due execution within their severall bounds; And also that the Acts of Parliament against excommunicate Persons, especially the twentieth Act of the Parliament in March last, be also carefully execute: And that they cause use all diligence to that effect, And account hereof shall bee required in Provinciall and Generall Assemblies.

Ult August, 1647. Ante Meridiem. Sess. XXVII.

_Act discharging the importing, venting or spreading of erronious
Books or Papers._

The Generall Assembly considering how the errours of Independency and Separation (have in our Neighbour Kingdome of England) spread as a Gangræn, and do daily eat as a Canker; In so much that exceeding many Errours, Heresies, Schismes, and Blasphemies, have issued therefrom, and are sheltered thereby; And how possible it is, for the same evils, to invade, and overspread this Kirk and Kingdome, (lying within the same Island) by the spreading of their erronious Books, Pamphlets, Lybels, and Letters, and by conversing with them that are infected with these errours, except the same be timeously prevented; Doe therefore, In the name of God, Inhibit and Discharge all Members of this Kirk and Kingdome, to converse with Persons tainted with such errours; Or to import, sell, spread, vent, or disperse such erronious Books or Papers: But that they beware of, and abstain from Books maintaining Independencie or Separation, and from all Antinomian, Anabaptisticall, and other erronious Books and Papers; Requiring all Ministers to warne their flocks against such Bookes in generall, and particularly such as are most plausible, insinuating, and dangerous: And to try carefully from time to time if any such Bookes bee brought into this Countrey from England, or from beyond Seas (which is especially recommended to Ministers on Sea Coasts, or Towns where any Stationers are) and if any shall be found, to present the same to the Presbyterie, that some course may be taken to hinder the dispersing thereof: And hereby all Presbyteries, and Synods, are ordained to try and Processe such as shall transgresse against the premisses or any part of the same. And the Assembly also doth seriously recommend to Civill Magistrates, that they may be pleased to be assisting to Ministers and Presbyteries in execution of this Act, and to concurre with their authority in every thing to that effect.

_Act for debarring of Complyers in the first Classe from
Ecclesiastick office._

The Generall Assembly Declares and Ordaines, That no Person who is guilty of Complyance in the first Classe mentioned in the Act of the preceeding Assembly, shall bee received in any Ecclesiasticall charge, untill the evidence of his repentance before the Presbyterie and Congregation be reported to the Synode to which he belongs, and to the Generall Assembly, and their consent obtained for his bearing office. And if any such Person be already received unto the Eldership of any particular Congregation, yet he shall not be admitted to be a Member of any Presbyterie, Synode, or Generall Assemblie, untill (upon the evidence of his repentance) the consent and approbation of these Judicatories respectively bee obtained thereto.

_Act for pressing and furthering the plantation of Kirks._

The Generall Assembly considering how the Work of Provision, Plantation, convenient Dividing, Dismembring, better uniting or enlarging of Parish Kirks is hitherto foreflowed, to the great prejudice of many Ministers, many good People, and hinderance of the Work of Reformation; Doth therefore Ordaine, That all Presbyteries have special care that the present opportunity bee diligently improved by all their Members, as need is, before the Commission for Plantation of Kirks, as they would not be found censurable for neglect. And that every Presbytery send in to the next Generall Assembly the names of all their Parishes, with declaration which of them have Ministers, which not, what is the largenesse of the bounds, commodious or incommodious situation of each Parish Kirk, what is the number of Communicants, what Kirks are under Patrons, what not, who are the severall Patrons, what is the nature and quantitie of the present provision, or possible ground of further provision for competent Maintenance, where the same is not sufficiently provided already: As also, what Parishes are united or disunited or bettered already, and in what measure by the said Commission; That the Generall Assembly being acquaint therewith, may doe accordingly both for censuring Neglecters, and finding out Overtures for better furtherance of the Work for time to come. Moreover it is hereby Ordained, That the next ensuing Provinciall Synodes, crave account of the severall Presbyteries their diligence, And presse that they have it ready in writ to present to the Provinciall Synodes in April next to come, that so all may bee in readinesse and the full account made at the next Generall Assembly.

_Act for censuring absents from the Generall Assemblie._

The Generall Assembly considering the absence of many Commissioners in this and other preceeding Assemblies, and that many of those present have gone from the Assembly before the dissolving thereof: Therefore, for remedie hereof in time coming, Doth Ordaine, that hereafter, Every Commissioner from Presbyteries and Universities who shall be absent from the Assembly without a reasonable excuse notified to the Assembly, Or who being present shall goe from the Assembly before the dissolving thereof without licence, shall be suspended by the Assembly untill the Provinciall Synode next thereafter following.

_Renovation of former Acts of Assembly for Triall and Admission of Expectants to the Ministerie._

The Generall Assembly, doth hereby renew and confirme all former Acts and Ordinances for triall and admission of Expectants to the Ministery; Especially the Articles thereanent allowed by the Generall Assembly 1596, and approven in the Assemblie at Glasgow 1638. The thirteenth Article concerning the age of intrants to the Ministery and the twentie fourth Article concerning the triall of Expectants, Of an Act of the said Assembly at Glasgow, Sess. 23. And the Act of the Assembly at S. Andrews 1642, Sess. 7. concerning Lists for presentations from the King, and the trial of Expectants, &c. Ordaining Presbyteries to observe the same carefully in all time coming.

Eodem die, Sess. XXVIII. Post Meridiem.

_Renovation of the Commission for prosecuting the Treaty for Uniformity in England._

The Generall Assembly, Taking to their consideration that the Treaty of Uniformity in Religion in all his Majesties Dominions is not yet perfected; Therefore, Renews the Power and Commission granted by preceeding Assemblies for prosecuting that Treaty, unto these Persons afternamed, viz. Master Robert Douglas, Master Samuel Rutherfurd, Master Robert Baillie, Master George Gillespie, _Ministers_: And John Earle of Lauderdaill, John Lord Balmerino, and Sir Archibald Johnstoun of Waristoun, _Elders_; Authorizing them with full Power to prosecute the said Treaty of Uniformity with the Honourable Houses of the Parliament of England, and the Reverend Assembly of Divines there, or any Committees appointed by them: And to doe all and every thing which may advance, perfit, and bring that Treaty to an happy conclusion, conforme to the Commissions given thereanent.

_Renovation of the Commission for the publike affaires of the Kirk._

The Generall Assembly taking to their consideration, that in respect the great Work 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) 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 publike Affaires of the Kirk by the Generall Assemblies held in S. Andrews 1642, and at Edinburgh 1643, 1644, 1645, and 1646, unto the Persons following, viz. Masters, Alexander Casse, Samuel Douglas, Robert Knox, William Penman, James Guthrie, Robert Cuninghame, David Fletcher, Robert Lawder, Andrew Stevenson, Robert Davidson, David Calderwood, James Fleming, Robert Ker, James Fairlie, Oliver Colt, Patrick Sibbald, Andrew Ramsay, John Adamson, Robert Douglas, William Colvill, George Gillespie, Mungo Law, Andrew Fairfoul, George Lesly, Robert Lawrie, Alexander Spittle, Alexander Dickson, John Hay, Thomas Vassie, Ephraim Melvill, Patrick Scheill, Alexander Simmervail, George Bennet, Alexander Levingstoun, Robert Murray, Alexander Rollock, William Menzies, Alexander Ireland, John Friebairn, George Murray, Henry Guthrie, William Justice, Robert Wright, Henrie Livingstoun, James Hammiltoun, George Gladstanes, Bernard Sanderson, Andrew Lawder, George Rutherfurd, John Levingston, George Hutcheson, John Bell, Heugh Mackaile, John Nevey, Matthew Brisbane, John Hammiltoun, Allan Ferguson, David Dickson, Zachary Boyd, Robert Ramsay, Robert Baillie, James Nasmith, Francis Aird, Robert Birnie, Thomas Kirkaldie, Evan Cameron, Robert Blair, Coline Adam, George Hammiltoun, Samuel Rutherfurd, Alexander Colvill, John Ramsay, James Martein, William Levingstoun, Thomas Melvill, John Smith, Fredrick Carmichaell, Patrick Gillespie, Alexander Moncrief, John Duncan, James Sibbald, Walter Bruce, George Pittillo, Andrew Affleck, John Barclay, Thomas Peirson, William Rait, David Strachan, Andrew Cant, William Douglas, John Forbes, George Sharp, William Chalmer, Joseph Brodie, Alexander Simmer, Gilbert Anderson, William Smith, _Ministers_; And Archibald Marques of Argile, John Earle of Crawfurd, Alexander E. of Eglintoun, William E. of Glencairne, John E. of Cassils, James E. of Home, James E. of Tullibairdine, Francis E. of Bukcleuch, John E. of Lawderdaill, William E. of Lothian, James E. of Finlatour, William E. of Lanerk, James Earle of Callendar, Archibald Lord Angus, George L. Brichen, John L. Yester, John L. Balmerino, James L. Cowper, John Lord Barganie, Sir Archibald Johnstoun of Waristoun, Sir John Hope of Craighall, Arthur Areskine of Scotiscraig, Alexander Fraser of Phillorth, Frederick Lyon of Brigtoun, James Mackdougall of Garthland, Sir William Cockburne of Langton, Sir Andrew Ker of Greinheid, Sir Heugh Campbell of Cesnock, Sir James Levingstoun of Kilsyth, Sir Thomas Ruthven of Freeland, Sir Gilbert Ramsay of Balmayne, John Henderson of Fordell, Walter Dundas younger of that ilk, Sir William Scot younger of Harden, Sir Lodovick Gordoun, Master George Winrhame of Libertoun, Alexander Levingstoun of Saltcoats, John Birsbane of Bishoptoun, Sir Robert Douglas of Tilliquhillie, James Pringle of Torwoodlie, Sir Iames Nicolsone of Colbrandspath, William Ker of Newtoun, William Forbes younger of Lesly, John Kennedy of Carmucks, Robert Arburthnot of Findowrie, Alexander Brodie of Letham, Master Robert Narne younger of Strathurd, Master James Schoneir of Caskeberrie, James Ruchheid, Lawrence Hendersone, James Stewart, David Douglas, John Jaffray, George Porterfield, John Semple, John Kennedy, William Glendinning, Master John Cowan, John Mill, _Elders_: Giving unto them full power and Commission, to doe all and every thing for prosecuting, advancing, perfecting, and bringing the said Work of Uniformity in Religion in all his Majesties Dominions to a happy conclusion, conform to the former Commissions granted by preceding Assemblies thereanent: And to that effect, Appoints them or any seventeene of them, whereof thirteene shall bee Ministers, to meet heer in this City in the afternoone at four hours, and thereafter upon the last Wednesdayes of November, February, and May next, and upon any other day, and in any other place they shall think fit. Renewing also to the Persons before named, the Power contained in the Act of the Assembly 1643, intituled, A reference to the Commission anent the Persons designed to repaire to the Kingdome of England; As likewise the Power contained in the Act of Assemblie 1644, Sess. 6. for sending Ministers to the Armie. And further, in case Delinquents have no constant residence in any one Presbyterie, Or if Presbyteries be negligent or averawed, in these cases, The Assemblie gives to the Persons before named, full power of censuring Complyers and Persons disaffected to the Covenant according to the Acts of Assemblie; Declaring always and Providing, that Ministers shall not bee deposed but in one of the Quarterly meetings of this Commission; With full power to them to treat and determine in the matters aforesaid, and in all other matters referred unto them by this Assemblie, as fully and freely as if the same were here particularly expressed, and with as ample power as any Commission of any 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.

_Desires and Overtures from the Commissioners of Universities; and the Assemblies answer thereto._

1. The Commissioners of Universities represents to the Assembly: First, That the Overtures of the Assembly 1643, for the visitation of Schools and advancement of Learning are very much neglected.

The Assembly recommends to Synodes to take account of the observation
of these Overtures.

2. That it were good to exhort all the Universities, to be carefull to take account of all their Schollers on the Sabbath-day of the Sermons, and of their lessons of the Catechisme.

The Assembly approves this Overture, and recommends accordingly.

3. That all the Universities bee exhorted to send their Commissioners instructed with answers to the Overtures agreed upon by the Commissioners of Universities, and which from this meeting of their Commissioners shall bee communicate to them, and this to bee when their Commissioners come in Februar or March to the Commission of the Kirk.

The Assemblie recommends to Universities to bee carefull hereof.

4. That the Overtures concerning the providing of Bursars for Divinity be recommended to Presbyteries and Synodes, and that they report their diligence to the next Assembly.

The Assembly allowes this Article, and recommends accordingly.

Edinburgh, 1 September, 1647. Sess. Ult.

_The Assemblies Letter to their Countreyman in Poleland, Swedland, Denmarke, and Hungarie._

Unto the Scots Merchants and others our Countrey-People scattered
in Poleland, Swedland, Denmarke, and Hungary; The Generall Assembly
of the Kirk of Scotland wisheth Grace Mercy and Peace from God our
Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Although this Kirk of Scotland, whiles spoiled of her Liberties under the Prelaticall tyrannie, had much difficultie and wrestling to preserve the true reformed Religion from being quite extinguished among our selves; yet since the mighty and out-stretched arme of the Lord our God hath brought us out of that Egypt, and hath restored to us well constituted and free nationall Synods, It hath been our desire and endeavour to set forward the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ and the purity of his Ordinances, not only throughout this Nation, but in other parts also so far as God gave us a call and opportunity and opened a way unto us. And among other things of this nature we have more particularly taken into our serious thoughts the sad and lamentable condition of many thousands of you our Country-men who are scattered abroad as sheepe having no shepherd, and are through the want of the meanes of knowledge grace and salvation, exposed to the greatest spirituall dangers, whether through ignorance or through manifold tentations to errors and false Religions, or through the occasions and snares of sinne.

We have therefore thought it incumbent to us to put you in minde of the one thing necessary, while you are so carefull and troubled about the things of the world. And although we do not disallow your going abroad to follow any lawfull calling or way of livelyhood, yet seeing it cannot profit a man although he should gain the whole world and lose his own soul, and seeing you have travelled so farre, and taken so much pains to get uncertain riches which cannot deliver in the day of the wrath of the Lord, and which men know not who shall inherit; We doe from our affection to the salvation of your immortall souls most earnestly beseech and warn you to cry after knowledge and lift up your voyce for understanding, seeking her as silver, and searching for her as for hid treasures, and so play the wise Merchants in purchasing the Pearl of price, and in laying up a sure foundation for the time to come, by acquainting your souls with Jesus Christ, and by faith taking hold of him whose free grace is now offered and held out to sinners, excluding none among all the kindreds of the earth who will come unto him. God forbid that you should let slip the time and offers of grace, or neglect any warning of this kinde sent to you in the name of the Lord. We shall hope better things of you, and that knowing the acceptable time and the day of salvation will not alwayes last, but the Lord Jesus is to be revealed from Heaven with his mighty Angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God and obey not the Gospel, you will the rather bestirre your selves timely and with all diligence to seek the Lord while he may bee found, to endeavour that you may have among you the ordinary means of grace and salvation, to pray that God would give you Pastors according to his heart, who shall feede you with knowledge and understanding, to consult also and agree among your selves with consent of your Superiors under whom you live (whose favour and good will we trust will not be wanting to you in so good and necessary a work) for setting up the worship of God and Ecclesiasticall Discipline among you according to the form established and received in this your mother Kirk, and for a way of setled maintenance to Pastors and Teachers; Which if you do, our Commissioners appointed to meet from time to time in the intervall betwixt this and the next Nationall Assembly, will bee ready (upon your desire made known to them) to provide some able and godly Ministers for you, as likewise to communicate to you our Directory for the publike worship of God, and our Form of Ecclesiasticall Governement and Discipline; together with the Confession of Faith and Catechisme.

And in the meane time we exhort you that ye neglect not the worship of God in secret and in your families, and that ye continue stedfast in the Profession of that faith in which yee was baptised, and by a godly, righteous, and sober conversation adorn the Gospel; and with all, that distance of place make you not the lesse sensible of your Countries sufferings, both in respect of the just judgements of God for the sinnes of the land, and in respect of the malice of Enemies for the Common Cause and Covenant of the three Kingdoms, of which happie conjunction, notwithstanding we do not repent us, but by the grace of God shall continue faithful and stedfast therein.

This Letter wee have thought fit to bee Printed and published, that it may be with the greater ease and conveniency conveyed to the many severall places of your habitation or traffique. Consider what we have said, and the Lord give you understanding in all things. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, Amen.

_Subscribed in name of the Generall Assembly of
the Kirk of Scotland._

Mr ROBERT DOUGLASSE, _Moderator_.

Edinburgh, Augusti 31, 1647.

_Act concerning the Hundred and eleven Propositions therein mentioned._

Being tender of so great an ingagement by Solemn Covenant, sincerely, really, and constantly to endeavour in our Places and Callings, the preservation of the Reformed Religion in this Kirk of Scotland, in Doctrine, Worship, Discipline, and Government, the Reformation of Religion in the Kingdomes of England, and Ireland, in Doctrine, Worship, Discipline, and Government, according to the Word of God, and the example of the best Reformed Kirks, and to endeavour the nearest Conjunction and Uniformity in all these, together with the extirpation of Heresie, Schisme, and whatsoever shall bee found contrary to sound Doctrine: And considering withall that one of the speciall meanes which it becometh us in our Places and Callings to use in pursuance of these ends, is in zeal for the true Reformed Religion, to give our publike testimony against the dangerous Tenents of Erastianisme, Independencie, and which is falsely called Liberty of Conscience, which are not only contrary to sound Doctrine, but more speciall lets and hinderances as well to the preservation of our own received Doctrine, Worship, Discipline, and Government, as to the Work of Reformation and Uniformity in England and Ireland. The Generall Assembly upon these considerations, having heard publikely read the CXI[358] following Propositions exhibited and tendered by some Brethren, who were appointed to prepare Articles or Propositions for the vindication of the Trueth in these particulars, Doth unanimously approve and agree unto these eight generall Heads of Doctrine therein contained and asserted, viz. 1. That the Ministery of the Word and the Administration of the Sacraments of the New Testament, Baptisme and the Lords Supper, are standing Ordinances instituted by God himself, to continue in the Church to the end of the World. 2. That such as Administer the Word and Sacraments, ought to be duely called and ordained thereunto. 3. That some Ecclesiasticall censures are proper and peculiar to be inflicted onely upon such as bear Office in the Kirk; Other censures are common and may bee inflicted both on Ministers and other Members of the Kirk. 4. That the censure of suspension from the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, inflicted because of grosse ignorance, or because of a scandalous life and conversation; As likewise, the censure of Excommunication or casting out of the Kirk flagitious or contumacious offenders, both the one censure and the other is warrantable by and grounded upon the Word of God, and is necessary (in respect of divine institution) to be in the Kirk. 5. That as the Rights, Power, and Authority of the Civill Magistrate are to bee maintained according to the Word of God, and the Confessions of the Faith of the Reformed Kirks; so it is no lesse true and certaine, that Jesus Christ, the onely Head and onely King of the Kirk, hath instituted and appointed a Kirk Government distinct from the Civill Government or Magistracie. 6. That the Ecclesiasticall Government is committed and intrusted by Christ to the Assemblies of the Kirk, made up of the Ministers of the Word and Ruling Elders. 7. That the lesser and inferiour Ecclesiasticall Assemblies, ought to bee subordinate and subject unto the greater and superiour Assemblies. 8. That notwithstanding hereof, the Civill Magistrate may and ought to suppresse by corporall or Civill punishments, such as by spreading Errour or Heresie, or by fomenting Schisme, greatly dishonour God, dangerously hurt Religion and disturbe the Peace of the Kirk. Which Heads of Doctrine (howsoever opposed by the authors and fomenters of the foresaid errours respectively) the Generall Assembly doth firmely beleeve, own, maintaine, and commend unto others, as Solide, True, Orthodoxe, grounded upon the Word of God, consonant to the judgement both of the ancient and the best Reformed Kirks. And because this Assembly (through the multitude of other necessary and pressing bussinesse) cannot now have so much leisure, as to examine and consider particularly the foresaid CXI. Propositions; therefore, a more particular examination thereof is committed and referred to the Theologicall faculties in the four Universities of this Kingdome, and the judgement of each of these faculties concerning the same, is appointed to bee reported to the next Generall Assembly. In the meane while, these Proposition shall bee Printed, both that Copies thereof may bee sent to Presbyteries, and that it may be free for any that pleaseth to peruse them, and to make known or send their judgement concerning the same to the said next Assembly.

_Desires and Overtures presented from Presbyteries and Synods, with the Assemblies answer thereunto._

It is humbly presented to the Assembly, that the children of many of the ordinary beggars want baptisme, Themselves also living in great vilenesse, and therefore desire that some remedie may be provided for these abuses.

The Assembly doth seriously recommend to Presbyteries to consider of
the best remedies, and to report their opinions to the next Assembly.

That all Students of Philosophie at their entry and at their Lawreation, bee holden to subscribe the League and Covenant and be urged thereto, and all other Persons as they come to age and discretion before their first receiving the Sacrament of the Lords Supper.

The Assembly approves this Overture.

Whereas divers Ministers want Mansses and Gleebs, and others have their Gleeb so divided in parcells, or lying so farre from their Charge as the Ministers are thereby much prejudged: We desire that this Generall Assembly will recommend it to bee helped by the Parliament, or Committee for planting of Kirks, in the best manner that their Lordships can advise.

Whereas divers Kirks were incommodiously united in corrupt times, we desire that the same be now dismembered and adjoyned to other Kirks, or erected in Kirks by themselves alone, and when the present incumbents agrees thereto, wee desire the same to bee recommended to the Parliament and Committee for plantation of Kirks; Provided alwayes, that the present Ministers who have laboured and indured the heat of day, may enjoy the benefit of such parcells as are taken from them during their life.

The Assembly doth approve these two Articles, and Recommends to the
Commissioners for publike Affaires, to assist any interessed in the
particulars for prosecuting the same before the Honourable Estates
of Parliament, or the Commission appointed by them for plantation of
Kirks.

* * * * *

The Generall Assembly, Doe yet againe recommend to Presbyteries and Provinciall Assemblies, to consider all matters formerly referred unto them by preceding Assemblies, and desires that their opinions concerning the same, be reported in writ to the next Generall Assembly.

* * * * *

It is this day appointed, that the next Generall Assembly shall meet at Edinburgh the second Wednesday of July, 1648.

A. KER.

INDEX _of the_ ACTS _of this_ GENERALL ASSEMBLIE _not Printed_.

1.—Election of Master Robert Douglasse Moderator, _Sess._ 1.

2.—Committee for the contraverted Commissions, _Sess._ 2.

3.—Committee of Reports, References and Appeals. _Ib._

4.—Committee of Bills and Overtures. _Ib._

5.—Committee for examining the proceedings of the Commission of the preceding Assembly for publike Affaires. _Ib._

6.—Committee for examining the Synode Books. _Ib._

7.—Commission from the Brethren in Ireland with the Scots Armie there. _Ib._

8.—Committee for appointing Ministers to Preach. _Ib._

9.—Papers produced by Master Robert Baillie, and M. George Gillespie. _Sess._ 3.

10.—Act concerning their Report and Approbation. _Ib._

11.—Committee for examining the Confession of Faith, Rouse Paraphrase, Catechisme, &c. and to receive any scruples and objections, and to report. _Ib._

12.—Act appointing some Brethren to present to the Committee of Estates, the progresse of Uniformity. _Ib._

13.—Invitation of all that had objections against any thing in the Confession, to repaire to the Committee. _Sess._ 4.

14.—A Latine Letter from Helvetian Churches to the Assembly. _Ib._

15.—Act for Printing 300 Copies of the advise of the Assemblie of Divines in England, Concerning a Confession of Faith, for the use of the Members of the Assembly. _Sess._ 5.

16.—Recom. to the Commission for planting of Kirks, for provision to another Minister in Aire. _Ib._

17.—Ref. to the Committee for Preaching to appoint Ministers to the Army, with addition of others to that Committee. _Ib._

18.—Appointment of Master Robert Young for Lodovick Leslies Regiment. _Sess._ 6.

19.—Committee for considering the dangers that are either from within or without this Kirk, and the best remedies for preventing the same, and to report. _Ib._

20.—Committee concerning John Wilkie and Master Tho. Ramsay. _Ib._

21.—Remitt. John Johnstouns desire of relaxation from Excommunication to the Provinciall of Dumfreis. _Ib._

22.—Committee for the vaking Stipends in Dunkeld. _Ib._

23.—Recom. Marjorie Smith for charity. _Ib._

24.—Remitt. Master James Rosse a deposed Minister to Presbyterie and Synode. _Sess._ 7.

25.—Ref. Master James Nasmith to the Committee for appointing Ministers to the Army. _Ib._

26.—Committee for considering a Processe in dependance before the Presbyterie of Peebles, concerning a scandall upon the relict of umquhile Mark Hammiltoun. _Ib._

27.—Continuation of the Town of Edinburghs Bill for Master John Smith, till Saturday. _Ib._

28.—Advise and Ordinance for prosecuting the Processe against Agnes Stewart, relict of umquhile Mark Hammiltoun. _Sess._ 8.

29.—Recom. Master George Gleghorne that hee suffer no prejudice in his old age. _Ib._

30.—Transportation of M. John Scot from Schottis to Glenluce. _Sess._ 9.

31.—Act refusing Master Andrew Honymans transportation to Craill. _Ib._

32.—Transportation of Master James Hammiltoun from Drumfreis to Edinburgh. _Ib._

33.—Act concerning the planting of Eymouth Kirk upon the submission of Earle of Home and Wedderburne. _Sess._ 10.

34.—Act concerning the tryall of Master William Home. _Ib._

35.—Transportation of Master John Smith from Bruntiland to Edinburgh. _Ib._

36.—Act for providing a college to Master Thomas Wyllie. _Ib._

37.—Recom. Thomas Burnet to the Committee of Estates. _Ib._

38.—Recom. M. Martine Mackferson to the Committee of Estates. _Ib._

39.—Recom. Master Neill Mackinnan to the Committee of Estates. _Ib._

40.—Act concerning the Visitation of Kalzae and Lyne. _Sess._ 11.

41.—Recom. Master John Houstouns petition to the Commission for planting of Kirks. _Ib._

42.—Act for Excommunicating of William Forbes of Skelleter, his committing a late murther being sufficiently evidenced. _Ib._

43.—Transportation of Master Walter Comrie to Dunkeld. _Ib._

44.—Act for conference with James Urquhart of old Craige, desiring to be relaxed from Excommunication. _Ib._

45.—Act appointing Master John Lothian to bee relaxed from the sentence of Suspension. _Ib._

46.—Recom. Petition of the Presbyterie of Wigtoun for erecting a Kirk for Penninghame and Monigafe, To the Commission of Parliament for planting of Kirks. _Ib._

47.—Committee for the matter betwixt John Wilkie of Foulden, and Master Thomas Ramsay. _Ib._

48.—Act appointing the Committee of Bills, to divide the Petitions for charity amongst Presbyteries and Provinces. _Sess._ 12.

49.—Act appointing the Committee concerning Doctor Strang to meet. _Ib._

50.—Act refusing Master John Levingstouns transportation to Glasgow. _Ib._

51.—Refer. to the Committee of dangers, to give opinion in the question concerning the carriage of our Commissioners at London in the case propounded. _Ib._

52.—Ref. to the Committee of dangers, concerning choosing a Moderator, and censure of absents from the Assembly. _Sess._ 13.

53.—Ref. James Urquhart of old Craige, concerning his relaxation from Excommunication, to the Provinciall of Murray. _Ib._

54.—Committee appointed to confer in some particulars, concerning Ministers provisions with my Lord Advocate. _Ib._

55.—Committee concerning the particulars of Master Eleazar Gilberts petition. _Ib._

56.—Ref. Gilbert Ogilvie of Craige, Major John Ogilvie, and Patrick Ogilvie of Brigend of Lentrathane, to the Presbyterie of Meegill. _Ib._

57.—Instruction with a Letter to the Commissioners at London. _Ib._

58.—Appointment of some to speake Earle Bukcleuch, concerning the Kirk of Borthwick. _Ib._

59.—Ref. concerning Master Zacharie Boyds labours to the Committee for the Confession of Faith. _Ib._

60.—Committee to consider of Ministers for Ireland. _Ib._

61.—Act continuing the Declaration for England, to be again read and further considered. _Sess._ 14.

62.—Committee for hearing the Objections of the Persons appointed for Ireland. _Ib._

63.—Recom. to Presbyteries for encouraging Expectants to embrace a calling from Ireland. _Ib._

64.—Ref. to the Committee for Preaching, to hear the reasons alledged by some Ministers why they should not go to the Armie. _Ib._

65.—Act refusing Master John Robertsons petition for opening his mouth. _Ib._

66.—Approbation of the Declaration for England. _Sess._ 15.

67.—Act for authorizing the Commissioners at London, to present the Declaration to the Parliament of England, City of London, and Synode of Divines, and to crave an answer to the Paper of the 25 of December. _Ib._

68.—Act appointing some Brethren to present the Declaration for England to the Committee of Estates, and to crave their Lordships concurrance in the like desires. _Ib._

69.—Act continuing the Directions for Private and Family Worship, to bee further Considered and againe read, with an Invitation to all that had any scruples to propone them to the Committee of dangers. _Ib._

70.—Act for joyning the Committee for the Confession of Faith to the Committee for the dangers, together to be one Committee, and their place of Meeting to be the old Session house. _Ib._

71.—Invitation of all that had any scruples or objections concerning any Article in the Confession, to propone the same to the Committee. _Ib._

72.—Report of the Committee touching the particulars in Master Gilberts petition, with an appointment for drawing a Letter to those of the Scottish Nation in Pole-land, &c. _Ib._

73.—Appoint. for drawing a Letter to Lieutennant Generall David Lesly. _Sess._ 16.

74.—Appointment of Ministers for Ireland. _Ib._

75.—Letter to Generall Major Munro. _Ib._

76.—Continuation of the Directions for Worship, to bee againe read and considered upon Tuesday, and all invited to addresse themselves to the Committee who had doubts or objections. _Ib._

77.—Committee for thinking on Overtures for planting the Kirks in the Hielands, and advancing Piety and Learning there. _Ib._

78.—Recom. to the Ministers of Edinburgh for their assistance to Ministers before the Commission for planting of Kirks. _Ib._

79.—Committee to conferre with the Lord Thesaurer, concerning the Kings gift of the patronage of Lanerk, and to advise with the Committee for the dangers upon the Kirks interest therein. _Ib._

80.—Recom. of the petition of the Presbyteries of Deir, Ellon, and Turref, to the Commission for planting of Kirks. _Ib._

81.—Recom. M. Neil Mackinnan, and M. Martine Mackferson, to be supported out of the vaking stipends in the Sky. _Ib._

82.—Ref. to the Commission for publike affaires for the planting of Drumfreis, with a recommendation to the Thesaurer for a presentation. _Ib._

83.—Recom. to the Committee of Estates, concerning the house of Dalgetie. _Ib._

84.—Act appointing M. Gabriell Maxwell for the Lieutenant General, Master James Nasmith for Generall Major Holburns Regiment, M. George Pittulo for the Generall of Artilleries Regiment, M. George Bennet for the Troups of Horse with the Generall Lieutenant, and M. John Lothian for the Squadron of Horse with Generall Major Middletoun.

85.—Remit. M. Francis Omey to the Presbyterie and Synode. _Sess._ 17.

86.—Ordinance for admission of Master John Baillie to the Kirk of Cambuslang. _Ib._

87.—Committee to confer with Earle of Eglintoun, concerning his petition touching planting the Kirk of Eglisham. _Ib._

88.—Recom. to the Committee of Estates of the petition of Aberdene concerning a Jesuite there. _Ib._

89.—Remit Master Matthew Ramsay to the Presbyterie of Hammiltoun for opening his mouth. _Ib._

90.—Ref. and Commission concerning the Kirk of Lyndean. _Ib._

91.—Committee for revising the Collectors counts, and to report. _Ib._

92.—Report of the Brethren sent to the Committee of Estates concerning the house of Dalgety, and the Jesuite in Aberdene. _Ib._

93.—Advise to the Presbyterie of Stranrauer concerning their proceeding in the triall of the scandall upon Ardwell. _Ib._

94.—Ref. to the Committee of dangers, to think upon some Overtures for commodious planting, dividing, and uniting of Kirks, and to report. _Sess._ 18.

95.—Recom. of some Persons for charity to Presb. and Provinces. _Ib._

96.—Recom. of the petition concerning Glencorse to the Lord Thesaurer, and the Lords of Exchequer. _Ib._

97.—Ref. Sir Lauchlen Macklen to the Presbytery of Edinburgh. _Ib._

98.—Recom. to the Committee of Estates, of the petition of Master Adam Barclay. _Ib._

99.—Recom. of the petition of M. Patrick Lindsay to the Committee of Estates, and to the charitie of the Presbyteries within the Province of Aberdene. _Ib._

100.—Recom. to the Presbyterie of Stranrauer and the Lord Advocate, concerning the Kirk of Glenluce. _Ib._

101.—Addition of the Lord Marquesse of Argile to the Committee for the dangers. _Ib._

102.—Appointment of the Committee concerning Doctor Strang, to make report and to receive any objections that any had against his dictates. _Ib._

103.—Warrand for Master Samuel Rutherfurds return. _Sess._ 19.

104.—A Letter to Generall Lieutenant David Leslie. _Ib._

105.—Invitation of all to propone their doubts or objections against any head or Article in the Confession of Faith, to the Committee. _Ib._

106.—Recom. to the Commission, for visitation of the Universitie of S. Andrews, for Master Samuel Rutherfurd to bee Principall of the new Colledge there. _Ib._

107.—Approbation of the report concerning planting of Eglishame. _Sess._ 20.

108.—Recom. M. Robert Lindsayes wife, and M. James Kirk to Provinces. _Ib._

109.—Appointment of some Brethren to visit the Idolatrous Monuments brought from the late Marques of Huntlies house. _Ib._

110.—Act refusing the petition for Master John Annans transportation to Edinburgh. _Ib._

111.—Act concerning the dyet of Master James Hammiltoun and Master John Smiths coming to Edinburgh. _Ib._

112.—Recom. to the Town of Edinburgh to plant all their Kirks with two Ministers with diligence. _Ib._

113.—Queræ proponed by the Commissioners of the Presbyterie of Chirnside, with the Assemblies advise thereanent. _Ib._

114.—Recom. of petitions for charity. _Ib._

115.—Appoint. of Master John Forbes for Colonell Scots Regiment, and Master Robert Cowdan to Pitscottis. _Sess._ 21.

116.—Nomination of a list for the Kirk of Gordon. _Ib._

117.—Ref. concerning Master David Leith. _Ib._

118.—Recom. concerning the contribution for the distressed people in Argyle. _Ib._

119.—Approbation of the report of the Committee for the vaking Stipends in Dunkeld. _Sess._ 22.

120.—Recom. M. Robert Brounlies wife to the Committee of Estates. _Ib._

121.—Commission for planting the Kirk of Lithgow. _Ib._

122.—Declaration that some votes of the Commission of the preceding Assembly upon the 21 of August 1646, and an Act of the 22 of the same moneth, are not to be examined by the Assembly. _Ib._

123.—Committee for the triall of some speaches spoken by some of the Presbyterie of Dunkeld concerning the Commission. _Ib._

124.—Ref. concerning Master William Hay. _Ib._

125.—Act concerning the committing of the plantation of the Kirk of Glasgow. _Ib._

126.—Ref. to the Commission for publike affairs of the Earle of Callenders petition, concerning the adjoyning Falkirk, Slammano, and Morrouingside to the Presbyterie of Sterling, with power to hear parties, visit, and report. _Sess._ 23.

127.—Conference appointed with the Earle of Abercorne. _Ib._

128.—Ref. to the Commission for publike affaires, for planting in Aire a colleague to Master William Adair. _Ib._

129.—Report concerning Doctor Strangs dictats. _Ib._

130.—Act appointing the Clerk to redeliver Doctor Strangs dictats unto him. _Ib._

131.—Refer. concerning Master John Mackenzie. _Sess._ 24.

132.—Approbation of the Collectors accounts. _Ib._

133.—Ref. to the Ministers of Edinburgh, to take course with the Monuments of Idolatrie brought from the North. _Ib._

134.—Recom. of the petition for a Minister to Chanrie of Rosse to the Commission for planting of Kirks. _Ib._

135.—Recom. Master Alexander Petrie. _Ib._

136.—Recom. Master Eleazar Gilbert. _Ib._

137.—Recom. Master William Douglas to the Committee of Estates. _Ib._

138.—Recom. Master George Sharpe to the Committee of Estates for reparation of his losses. _Ib._

139.—Ref. complyers in Murray to the Provinciall. _Ib._

140.—Recom. to the Commission for planting of Kirks, concerning provisions to Ministers in the Presbyterie of Kirkcudbright. _Sess._ 25.

141.—Act appointing conference with Earle Abercorne, untill the last of March. _Ib._

142.—Recom. to the Synode of Murray of the petition of Badinoch, concerning Master John Dollar. _Ib._

143.—Recom. concerning the Minister of Corrie and Hutton. _Ib._

144.—Recom. to the Commission for planting of Kirks, concerning the adjoyning some lands to the Parish of Monswall. _Ib._

145.—Act for Printing the Directorie for Church Government, to be examined by Presbyteries against the next Assembly, and for Printing the Catechisme also when it shall be perfected. _Ib._

146.—Act concerning the contribution for the distressed people in Argile. _Ib._

147.—Recom. to Committee for dangers, to consider of a Letter for the Scots in Poleland, &c. _Ib._

148.—Ref. to the Committee appointed for tryall of proceedings of the Commission of Assembly, to consider of the processe of Master John Rosse, and to report. _Ib._

149.—Act concerning the tryall of the payment of the contribution for distressed people of Argyle. _Ib._

150.—Act concerning James Murray. _Sess._ 26.

151.—Act for collecting the contribution for the Province of Argile, in these parts that have not yet contributed, and sending it to the receivers. _Ib._

152.—Recom. to the Synode of Glasgow, concerning a second Minister to Dumbartan. _Ib._

153.—Recom. to the Lords of Privie Counsell for punishing an injurie done to a Presbytery about burying in a Kirk. _Ib._

154.—Act appointing a conference with some Divines, Lawyers, and Physitians, concerning witchcraft and charming. _Ib._

155.—Report of the tryall of the Synods Books with the Assemblies censure. _Ib._

156.—Appointment of some to salute the Lieutenant General now in Town, and Generall Major Middletoun when he comes. _Sess._ 27.

157.—Ref. to the Commission for publike affaires to endeavour for obtaining from the Parliament, some restraint of burialls in Kirks. _Ib._

158.—Commission for visitation of Lochaber, Badinoch, and the Isles. _Ib._

159.—Recom. to the Commission of Parliament for planting of Kirks, for providing some course for the payment of the charges of Commissioners to the Generall Assembly. _Ib._

160.—Ref. to the Commission for publike affairs, for Printing of some Papers concerning the Treaty of Uniformity, and matters handled in the Synode of Divines in England. _Ib._

161.—Ref. and warrand to the Commission for publike affaires, to give licence for Printing. _Ib._

162.—Recom. to the Lords of Exchequer, concerning the passing of gifts of the Prebendaries. _Ib._

163.—Report from Robert Brysones relict, concerning the Printing of Trochrigs Works. _Ib._

164.—Warrand given to the Moderator and Clerk, and some others, to agree with Evan Tyler for Printing the Works of Trochrig upon the condition promised to Robert Bryson. _Ib._

165.—Ref. John Wilkie of Foulden and Master Thomas Ramsay to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

166.—Act concerning the choosing of the Moderator of the Generall Assemblie. _Ib._

167.—Act for changing every Assembly the rolls of the Commissioners by courses, according to the order of Provinces. _Ib._

168.—Commission for visiting the University of S. Andrews. _Ib._

169.—Commission for visiting the University of Aberdene. _Ib._

170.—Commission for visiting Orkney and Zetland. _Ib._

171.—Appointment of some Brethren to speake to the Lord Thesaurer, concerning passing of gifts of Patronages. _Ib._

172.—Ref. Master John Rosse at Lunfannan. _Sess._ 28.

173.—Approbation of the report concerning planting of Kirks in the Hielands. _Ib._

174.—Ref. John Gillon to the Presbytery of Edinburgh for private tryall. _Ib._

175.—Renovation of the Commission for publike affairs. _Ib._

176.—Warrand for Master James Gordon to come to Sterling-shire, for drawing the mappe thereof. _Sess. Ult._

177.—Ref. of Gorthie Inchbrakie and Lindsay of Maines, their petitions for relaxation from the sentence of Excommunication, to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

178.—Recom. in favours of Sir William Dick. _Ib._

179.—Ref. Master James Row. _Ib._

180.—Ref. to the Commission for publike affaires, concerning the Scots in Poleland, &c. _Ib._

181.—Ref. for planting the Kirk and Colledge of Aberdene to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

182.—Ref. concerning Masters William Douglas, John Logie, George Hanna, Richard Maitland, and Coline Mackenzie. _Ib._

183.—Ref. and Commission concerning the tryall of Masters Murdo Mackenzie, John Duncane, and William Cowper. _Ib._

184.—Recom. Master William Chalmber to the Committee of Estates. _Ib._

185.—Ref. James Grahame of Claypots to the Presbyterie of Dundie. _Ib._

186.—Recom. of some persons for charitie. _Ib._

187.—Ref. for planting the Kirk of Bruntiland to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

188.—Ref. concerning the planting of the Kirk of Prestoun to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

189.—Ref. for planting the vaking Kirk in Glasgow to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

190.—Ref. the Lord Ray his Son and some of his friends, to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

191.—Ref. Master Gilbert Gordon, to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

192.—Recom. for Master George Hannayes wife and children. _Ib._

193.—Act for presenting the Confession of Faith to the Parliament. _Ib._

194.—Act concerning the Translaters of the Dutch Notes. _Ib._

195.—Recom. and Ref. concerning the collecting of the Passages and Occurrances of these late times, to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

196.—Ref. for planting the Kirk of Ancrum, to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

197.—Renovation of the Commission for visitation of the University of Glasgow. _Ib._

198.—Ref. Master John Rosse at Birse, to the Synode of Aberdene. _Ib._

199.—Ref. of Master Thomas Ramsay younger, his petition to the Commission for publike affaires. _Ib._

200.—Indiction of a Thanksgiving and of a Fast. _Ib._

FINIS.

=Miscellaneous Historical Documents,=

RELATIVE TO THE ECCLESIASTICAL AND POLITICAL EVENTS IN SCOTLAND—1647.

1. _Excerpts from Principal Baillie’s Account of the Westminster Assembly, continued from p. 460._

_To Mr William Spang. Edinburgh, Jan. 1647._

DEAR COUSIN,—I wrote to you at length before I came from London. I have had a long and tedious, but, thanks to God, prosperous journey. I am now here well. I have made my report in the commission of the church to all their contentment; our errand in England being brought near a happy period, so far as concerned us the commissioners of the church; for, by God’s blessing, the four points of uniformity, which was all our church gave us in commission to agent in the assembly at Westminster, were as good as obtained. The Directory I brought down before. The model of government we have gotten it through the assembly according to our mind: it yet sticks in the hands of the Houses. They have passed four ordinances at least about it, all pretty right, so far as concerns the constitution and erection of general assemblies, provincial synods, presbyteries, and sessions, and the power of ordination. In the province of London and Lancashire the bodies are set up. That the like diligence is not used long ago in all other places, it is the sottish negligence of the ministers and gentry in the shires more than the parliament’s. That the power of jurisdiction in all things we require, excepting appeals from the general assembly to the parliament, is not put in ordinances long ago, it is by the coming of the Independents and Erastians in the House of Commons; which obstacle we trust will now be removed by the zeal of the city of London; so much the more, as our nation are taken away sooner and more easily than any did expect. All grounds of jealousy of our joining with the King, the greatest prop of the sectaries power in the House. However, in the _jus divinum_ of Presbytery, printed by the ministry of London, you may see that burden taken off our shoulders; the body of the ministry of England, not the assembly and Londoners only, being fully leavened with our sense in all the point of government, and become willing, and able abundantly, to manage that cause, without us, against all opposites. The third point, the Confession of Faith, I brought it with me, now in print, as it was offered to the Houses by the assembly, without considerable dissent of any. It is much cried up by all, even many of our greatest opposites, as the best Confession yet extant. It is expected the Houses shall pass it, as they did the Directory, without much debate. Howbeit the retarding party has put the assembly to add scriptures to it, which they omitted only to eschew the offence of the House, whose practice hitherto has been, to enact nothing of religion on divine right or scriptural grounds, but upon their own authority alone. This innovation of our opposites may well cost the assembly some time, who cannot do the most easy things with any expedition; but it will be for the advantage and strength of the work. The fourth part of our desired and covenanted uniformity is the Catechism. A committee has drawn and reported the whole.