THE WAY TO THE PEACE AND SETTLEMENT OF THESE NATIONS, Fully discovered in two Letters, delivered to his late Highness, and one to the present Parliament, As also one to his Highness Richard Lord Protector, of England, Scotland, and Ireland, etc.  
WHEREIN The liberty of speaking (which every one desires for himself) is opposed against Antichrist, for the procuring of his downfall, who will not grant the same to others;  
And now published To awaken the public spirits in England, and to raise up an universal Magistrate in Christendom, that will suffer all sorts of people, (of what Religion soever they are) in any one Country, as God (the great Magistrate) suffers the same in all Countries of the world.  Matth. 5.15. 
Men do not light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.  
By Peter Cornelius, Van Zurick-Zee, a lover of truth and peace.  
LONDON: Printed for Daniel White, and are to be sold at his Sh●● at the seaven-Starres, in Paul's Churchyard. 1659.   

To the High and Honourable Assembly of PARLIAMENT, representing the whole body of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, etc.  
Lords, and Gentlemen,  
HAving seen that Policy, and Religion, which (as God is) ought to be universal was divided and severed into many Sects, my spirit was much troubled; and looking roundabout me, where to make a beginning to rectify those evils, I found no better object in Christendom, than his late Highness the Lord PROTECTOR; whereupon I resolved for a while, to leave my family and native Country, fearing if I should not manifest to the Magistrates in England, what was upon my spirit, that they (having much to do with other affairs) might through the subtlety of the Clergy, (as in other Nations) easily be deceived. Therefore coming to London, I made first my address to some of the Counsel, and so (by the favour of them) to his Highness were I delivering the two following Letters, was heard several times with patience; doing my endeavour to preserve England from that great dishonour which hath befallen other Nations, by setting up instead of the form, and doctrine of Christ, the forms and factions of men. But being obstructed in my proceeding, through the unexpected death of his Highness, I was put to some stop, waiting for a better opportunity, and hearing, that your Honours were to assemble together upon the 27. of January, my spirit was revived, hoping that my design (for the peace, and welfare of these Nations) by that means (better than heretofore) might be accomplished. Whereupon I resolved to bring the business (formerly propounded to his Highness) to your Honour's Consideration, being persuaded in my heart, if You (who are now entrusted with the weighty affairs of these Nations) have fixed your eyes upon God, as the eyes of the good people in these and other Nations are fixed upon You, that the Proposals laid down in the two following Letters, will have a great influence upon your hearts; especially if you consider and remember the notable words of Solomon, where he speaks to the Kings and Rulers of the earth, that a sharp judgement shall come upon them that are in high places; for mercy will soon pardon the meanest, but mighty men (not standing in the Counsel of God) shall be mightily tormented. Therefore give ear to him, you that rule the people, and glory in the multitude of Nations; for he shall try your works, and search out your Counsels: Set yourselves as true servants of the Common wealth (in opposition to the Antichrist) against all oppressors, that so they that seek with Haman to destroy and trample upon the innocent (contrary to their expectation) may be disappointed. Let some course be taken that all persons may buy their estates free from Tithes, that thereby henceforth none in all your Dominions may be forced to pay Tithes to the Ministers, for that hath been, and is still the chief cause of persecution, and discontent in these, and other Nations. 
☜  Suffer by no means (you having respect to the Honour of Christ) that any Confession of Faith be set upon the Throne, as equal with the holy Scripture; for Confessions are only to distinguish one Sect from another. Assist not with the sword, or money of the Commonwealth any Sect, or person in particular, that you may not hinder the truth (which hath been long kept under) from manifesting itself by its own power; for Magistrates (as Magistrates) have no permission to favour any Sect, or person in particular, if any of them (being considered as a private person) will be a member of a particular Congregation, he hath his liberty, as well as others, and may honour the same with his presence, with his tongue, with his pen, and with his own money; but not with the sword or money of the Commonwealth: for the Magistrates (being chosen by the generality of the people) are to stand  in the Centre, (as Moderators) between all Sects: They are in regard of their office, as treasurers, who are entrusted with a sum of money to employ the same, not for their own, or any ones private advantage in particular, but for the benefit of all those that have entrusted them; if it were the magistrates work to set up a National Ministry according to their own will, than we should be in danger to have as many religions, as there be several ways of government in the world, and the Magistrates changing their opinion, the whole Nationall Ministry must also as often be changed: What is that, then, but to do his own will, instead of the will of God, and to have his pleasure upon the souls of men. It were better, and belongs especially to your office, not to follow the traditions of men, but to examine and reform the Laws now in force, and to disannul such as are destructive and without mercy; contrary to the Law of Nature, and the revealed will of God: which ought to be in all ages, and in all countries', only our rule. It is also your honour's work and business, diligently to consider, what properly belongs to the office of a Magistrate, before you put the sword, and power of these Nations into their hands: for through want of care in so weighty a matter, the whole Commonwealth is in danger (as in times past) to fall under the dominion of one particular Sect, whose Ministers (to bring the common-people, and so the Magistrates, under their jurisdiction) are commonly infecting with their forms, not only the public meeting-places, and the houses of the poor, or hospitals. but also the Schools (called Universities) which have by the subtlety of them in all countries'; almost lost the name Universal, by being misapplied to self-ends and interests. Now to reform those corruptions, it is necessary that the magistrates, (whose work it is to have an eye to the good of all) do expel out of those public houses or Colleges (being builded with the money of the commonwealth) all mere humane forms of Religion, that they may not longer make a trade & merchandise of the things of God. Granting an equal liberty to all peaceable people (as being but reason) that such as have ventured their lives and estates in the time of wars, should in the time of peace enjoy a like liberty with others; which may soon be, if you seriously consider the things all along propounded; not that I am come unto England to be your instructor, but to bring to your Honour's remembrance those very things, which have been upon your own hearts, in order to the establishing of such a general liberty, as hath been for many years of late pretended unto; being the only way wherein you may expect the blessing of God upon you, and your posterity, against all oppressors, to the taking away of that shameful reproach, that the Magistrates, and Ministers, in England have brought down the King and Bishops, rather to succeed in their places, then to bring the people to peace and happiness. If the power (to defend the good against the evil) in all Countries be ordained of God, Romans 13. then reason requires, that all sorts of people of what Nations soever, being in one Country together, should be protected, as well as if any of them severally was in his own: which cannot be, except there be a good publick-minded and godly Magistrate, that will suffer all sorts of people in any one Country, as God suffers the same in all Countries of the world; which I expect first in England, and so from thence to break forth (as a light) to all other countries' and Nations, as having long enough walked (as in the night) by the glimpse of particular lights. It is time that the universal work of God (as the Sun) do outshine all that is particular; to which end I implore the presence of the most high God, to be in your Assembly to guide and direct your hearts in all those things, that may be acceptable unto him, and most agreeable to his good will and pleasure.  
Your Honours, and all men's humble servant, Peter Cornelius, V Z. London the 24. of Jan. 1659. Holland's stile.  Give ear to the poor, for the cry of them is exceeding great in these Nations.  

Peter Cornelius, V Z. (together with some other lovers of the common good) to the Mighty, Potent, Far-renown (yet mortal) Lord Oliver Cromwell, Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland, etc. For the promoting of good Government, wisheth long life, wisdom, and foreseeing Councillors of State, to the end, that his actions may tend, not only to the convincing of all that envy him, but that also he may be a light, and an example to all Dominions, and Governments in the world.  
WOrthy, and (as I hope) favourable Lord, being come into England during the time of your free government, I have with much cheerfulness beheld the great freedom, which this Nation (since the putting down the authority of Bishops) doth enjoy, which I hope by degrees, will more and more prevail in the world, to the taking away of all force upon Consciences, that men may be led and governed by reason, as men, and not as beasts, by compulsive power. And that those who are once delivered from the Antichristian Captivity, may not be taken Captive again by others; who, together with the great Antichrist, seek their own greatness; It is most highly necessary that the Example of Christ (to reconcile all into one) should be followed; for those that force the Conscience, being not able to bring all under them by worldly power, do commonly manifest their own inclination to be void of Christian love, and forbearance, by gathering into Sects and Schisms, so that besides the great Antichrist, there are many little Antichrists, that endeavour to rise up. None of which, being able to endure any opposition, or gainsaying, do seek to gain, and draw a part of Christendom under their jurisdiction. On the contrary, the Lord Jesus Christ hath taken captivity captive: That is, put those to shame that held others Captive, by his Ascension into heaven, and gave gifts unto men, that they should not be led astray again, viz. he gave as means to salvation, Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers; whose doctrine alone, while it is yet through God's mercy; as a measuring line or clue of thread in the world, we should set that on the Throne, treading under foot, all mere humane traditions, as Idolatry: That so all Christendom, being divided into divers Sects (as formerly the Jews were) a general way of Church-meeting may be instituted, for the hearing of God's word read unaltered and unsophisticated, leaving a freedom for all Sects, as well the one as the other to assert their own apprehensions and understandings upon the Lessons of their Master Christ, without being tied to one another's opinions.  

☞  For it belongs only to God and Christ to have dominion over Consciences, and to Magistrates to prevent any from exercising Lordship over the Consciences of others; in so doing they would be true maintainers and defenders of Liberty, when they use not their power against those that assert their own meanings, but against those that would compel others to be of their opinions. For this, viz. to deal equally in matters of Religion towards subjects, is not only good and pious, but is also the foundation of a good Government. Whereas otherwise, when one Sect shall be encouraged and commended to the Church, and the other excluded, than jealousy and envy will spoil all; so that the Magistrate in stead of being beloved, may often fear that their State will be undermined, and at length totally destroyed; especially, when that one party is become numerous, or do join with a foreign or homebred enemy. Wherefore, though they should want the fear of God, yet for their own peace-sake, they should give freedom to all: and the rather seeing thereby the noblest and best of understanding, are from all places invited and convened in: for whose wisdom sake (as of joseph's in Egypt) without respect of persons, they ought to be suffered to come in by the Magistrate for the common good and welfare. So that there may not only be a refining in Civil, or Politic, but chief in spiritual matters. For as formerly amongst the Jews, (when men began to believe that the Priests under the Law could not err, as to their Institutions and Traditions) God's commands were made void or of no effect: After the same manner also hath it been since the time of the Apostles in Christendom, that instead of the holy Scriptures only (having been confirmed by Miracles) which should be held a rule of Faith; yet some (being lovers of themselves) have taken upon them a dominion, jointly with Christ, giving out, that men must believe and hold for true, what ever the Church, (viz. the Bishops, or other superintendents thereof) do declare as truth. The common people not perceiving (by reason of the great respect which they bear to those that are set over them) that some of them seek to make themselves great, they have soon attempted to hold forth the authority of the Scriptures, according to their own sense; upon which when they have introduced matters contrary to reason, and people have refused to receive them for authentic, they have by their acquired authority kindred the people, from so much as to speak or whisper against it; constraining them to believe what they say, and also to rely upon them and their absolution: and to take away all scruple from the people, have given out that they will answer for them at the day of judgement; Yea moreover (which is far more terrible) will undertake to pawn their souls for theirs. By which persuasions, the people being in anxiety fall into their bosoms, (as in former times) in their gross darkness, oppugning the holy Scriptures and the consciences of some, with greater earnestness, are resisted and rejected. Yet these men being driven out by Tyranny, and separated from Popery, have commonly something of that sower-leaven remaining in them, to bind others to their opinions, making, as a foundation of their fellowship, new forms, over and besides the holy Scriptures: whereby they have not exalted Christ but themselves: they have not held close to that only name, which was given for men to be saved by; but many names, as heads of parties (according to the different forms) they have brought into the world. Whence great strangeness, making of parties, yea, sometimes war, and horrible bloodsheddings have ensued: which have been managed, not for the sake of the holy Scriptures, (which they all held for truth) but to keep up their own opinions: till again, some more understanding men perceiving the various differences of the forms and ways, and the mischief and wicked disturbance, which this strife and variance, in writings of disputations and controversy hath produced, have justly rejected all names and rules, besides the name and rule of Jesus Christ, living among them, as men full of love and forbearance; whose understandings and life, clash not against the holy Scriptures and found reason: although they differ among themselves in apprehensions upon some places of the Scripture, but do continue in brotherly love and unity; by which forbearance they do not only set others in the right way (so fare as they are in the truth) but are also by others brought out of the way, wherein they themselves did err: a thing which ought to bear sway with all men, according to the words of Christ (As you would that men should do unto you, so do you unto them also) that they should bear with one another's opinions and conceptions, as they would themselves be born withal in theirs. For it hath more the resemblance and appearance of compelling the Consciences, and of Tyranny, then of Reason, to press any one to come up to another's apprehension, as necessary, before he can apprehend it with his own understanding to be good and necessary.  
This hath been in former ages the policy of Persecutors, and makers of Sects and Schisms; who not only have cast out by their power, such, whose understanding they could not bring to agree with theirs: but being unable to do it, have made great broils, rents, and divisions in the world; whereas every one (since God is so long suffering) ought with constant persevering love (without despairing in the work) to labour according to their power to enlighten others, that are in darkness. For if those that have the light reject others, or departed from them; then the blind having no good leaders, must needs go astray, and being led by the blind fall into a deep abyss of Ignorance. On the contrary, all true lovers of the common good, do labour not only to take out of the world Factions, but also all humane inventions (as much as in them lieth) that so the Lord Jesus may alone remain Lord and Master; whose sayings they bear great honour and respect unto, although they possibly cannot understand the meaning of some particulars; yet being confirmed by signs and wonders; do hold the same for good and true. In which thing as to the salvation of man, they will put no trust or affiance in any besides Jesus Christ; nor yet receive any thing as truth, but that which they themselves can apprehend to be good and agreeable to his doctrine; therefore do they themselves not set up or own any authority, whereby men should rely upon it, nor yet should give any others Authority whereby to draw men into their party, but should bind all men unto Jesus Christ, whom they acknowledge only for Head and Saviour.  
We desire from the bottom of our hearts, that all men might be gathered together under that one name, and that your Highness (from whom almost every one expects some special work) will help to cleanse the Christian Religion, and worship of God, from all prevailing exorbitances; and to that end would institute (as an eternal memorial and example to all Dominions and Governments in the world) in every City and in every County throughout England, Scotland, and Ireland, one general Christian assembling or meetingplace, in such a form, that all people may see one another roundabout by the help of seats, rising by steps, having before them convenient leaning-places to read and write upon; also one desk aloft on one side or end, to hear the holy Scriptures read at a set time, giving freedom after that reading, to all people, orderly to confer together, concerning the Doctrine and Instruction of their Lord and Master Christ: That all Lording over Consciences being prevented, all people might come together, without receiving any obstruction by any human forms or contrivances, even as the Jews being divided into several Sects (as Pharisees, Saducees, Esseens, and Herodians, etc.) met together in one Temple, so we would not deny any particular Congregations of their freedom, of peaceable meeting among themselves about the Ordinances of Jesus Christ (as the Orders or Synagogues of the Jews were not at all infringed) nor bereave the Ministers or Teachers of their benefit, which they receive (of their own people) for their maintenance: for they having a fit opportunity, may the better bring in their sense with others, into this general Church-meeting. That so the truth getting enlargement, the honest party may be resolved into unity, and the bad (that cannot endure the light) may be discovered, and made known; who only seeking Dominion and rule, should not by any means be employed in high places, in matters civil or spiritual; that so the seat of Government may not be usurped by their Adherents, when things go contrary to their minds (being cruel Wolves) who in seeking of their advantage, will not spare the flock, over which the Rulers (who should be placed to keep the people in order) ought especially to take care, that they do not hinder them from the liberty of speaking freely; as it happeneth commonly in particular assemblies or congregations, contrary to the laudable practice of the Jews, Acts 13.15. who themselves, after the reading of the Scriptures, did invite and stir up Paul and Barnabas (being strangers) to speak.  
Hence when understandings might be so free and uninterrupted, there would not only arise a clearing of the understanding, and reforming of the lives of people; but also a yielding, submissive, condescending love: for the wisest and expertest men daily coming thus together, to teach and to be taught; it would incline the hearts of those that should behold them, one towards another, which we may discern in worldly matters, (as in making of Treaties or Peace with Nations) whereas otherwise they being drawn up, and stretched beyond their present apprehensions, by the supreme Authority, they stand upon their guard in opposition to one another, as well in spiritual as Civil affairs. This now being so, it will especially concern your Highness, whilst the eyes of all are fixed upon you, to set a complete Example, that all people (that do slander you, as to have no Religion) may evidently perceive, that you do only maintain the Christian Religion, and not Countenance any other particular name or Head whatsoever. For Jesus, the only heavenly Teacher, (who hath been long enough trod under foot by Sectarians) ought to be set up above all; and that all men as Brethren be joined together, is the only way to abolish all Lording over Consciences; which hath already driven him out of his seat, and many hundred years since possessed his place, that at length the spiritual usurpation, with its Antichristian Dominion, may be laid down at his feet.  
Thus doing you will be accounted a follower of the example of the good King Josiah, 2 Kings 23. who to reform the Jews worship of God, threw down all Chimerims and Idolatry, and brought forth the book of the old Covenant, to the ears of the people; and all the people stood in that Covenant. So will all Christendom (unless any would set up man, to rule together with Christ) commend your diligent and wise forecast, and circumspection, and pray for the prosperity of your estate, to the ruin of the Romish Seat, which (together with all that would force Consciences) hearing the report of this noble Freedom, will begin to tremble, yea, even their silenced children, whose mouths have been muzzled by compulsive restraint, will begin to speak; and so in time of need, seeing your free Government, may come to shroud themselves under your wings. To which, God the Father who beholdeth you, and all men's actions, afford his grace, through Jesus Christ, Amen.   

To his Highness Oliver Lord Protector, of England, Scotland, and Ireland, etc.  
MIghty, and (as I hope) prudent Lord, being by the Loadstone of your free Government drawn, and come into England, I have not only beheld the multiplicity of Opinions, and various differences of Sects (who have been long held together in a false peace) but also have laid before you an expedient (in my Letter of the 24. of June) to bring them together to a true real unity.  
I hope (seeing the bonds of Antichrist are in a great measure broken in England, by the effusion of much blood,) that you as a skilful Pilot, will keep your hand at the Helm, & your eye upon the sail, that so the little Antichrists, who seek to rule over Consciences, may not bring your work to shame and reproach, by exciting you to Tyranny, and thereby obstruct you in perfecting the same. For several Princes and Magistrates have formerly laboured to bring down the Antichrist; but not rightly knowing the nature thereof, have (unawares) not observed the little ones, while they oppose the great ones only, as Bishops and others; and the little, selfseeking ones to become great, have to their power helped the Magistracy (as if themselves were Enemies of the spiritual domination) only that they might succeed in the others places, which evidently appeared as soon as ever they began to take breath, in that they have instituted new forms (the cause of Sects and parties) by framing new Articles of faith, over and besides the holy Scripture, thereby to shut men up within the Park or Enclosure of their own opinions; by which means they set not up Christ in the hearts of men, but their own Kingdom and Dominion, which is Idolatry. And the Rulers being brought on their side, oppression hath been exercised upon such as have not worshipped their Images (I mean their contrived Forms) without life.  
Now to oppose these deceitful spirits, who in an angelical humility and lowliness, come with great and lamentable complaints and petitions. The good Magistrates, to the end they be not deceived, should, for the protecting of the Innocent, be armed with a Divine foresightfulnesse, and circumspection, for they by all means (as if the Magistrates could make their dead Forms live) do incessantly implore the interposing their Authority, well knowing, that there is no better way, to bring the Common-people (wherein the strength of a Nation consists) under their jurisdiction, and do sometimes set the Magistracy (which to govern well cannot be too high) by degrees higher and higher; yea upon hopes thereby to have their Forms subscribed unto) resolve to make any body their King or Emperor; being well assured, that when he hath thus given up his power to them, and set them on the Throne, they may afterwards do with him what they will.  
For the most part all Kings have lost their power, by giving too much Authority to the Ministry or Teachers, and have become (instead of Lords, servants; yea (fearing the opposition of them and their followers) have for their sakes become Tyrants.  
Considering these things, the Magistrates to whom (and not to the Teachers) the sword is given, for the protection of the good, should hold it fast, to prevent and frustrate all cunning and subtle practices, and instead of giving Ministers or Teacher's power and Authority, should (by their general Assemblies set up in all Cities and Countries) draw the common people out of their bosoms and dominion, that they may lose their usurped power, that so the sword may return into its right place, for which God hath ordained it, without the Magistrates needing in their Government, to have dependence on the Ministers or Teachers, who are wont to incense the people against them. This (besides that the whole power will come into the hands of the Magistrates) will bring many thousands a year to the Commonwealth. For the people having opportunity to come into the general Assemblies, out of love to hear many wise understanding men, will not need to give maintenance to the hirelings, who Lord it in particular Congregations, whereby the Magistrates (who now begin to lighten or ease the burden of maintenance) will be beloved more than formerly. Then shall we first be able rightly to discern, when the power is come into its right place, what the Magistrates are, who now many times are accounted oppressors, and evil Governors: though it may be that oppression and evil government doth proceed more from the nature of the Teachers, then of the Magistrates, who (now the way to make the Teachers powerlesse is opened) will begin to appear more evidently then formerly, and the more, because the common assembling place may be instituted for drawing of the people from the Ministers in all places, without compulsion of any man, bringing all Sects (without giving wages to any) as brethren to equal privileges. But if those that are of one and the same opinion, will have particular Congregations, and Set-Ministers, let themselves pay them as a Master doth his servant. For it's no reason that a man should help to maintain another's servants; especially, if they be such as (in his judgement) are soul-destroyers; who (being in his senses) would assist such enemies as do countermine him? Is it not to be wondered at, that the Ministers (who would be esteemed more than the Magistrates) should (to the shame of their Church or Congregations) desire wages of them, for whom they have not laboured? Neither is it the mark of a true Church, where the Members thereof are so covetous, and unmerciful, that they will not maintain or provide for their own Ministers; and the Teachers (loving the wages of unrighteousness) do (contrary to the 10th. Commandment) covet the goods of others; whereof the Apostles and their Congregations▪ would have been ashamed to think, much less would do it. Yet I hope, that once the Conscience-burthening-law of constraining to pay Tithes to the Ministers (who seek rather after Lucre then the Truth) for the rest of these Nations, will be made null and void. Some course being taken to supply the necessities of the Ministers, who by such Act (that none shall be forced to pay Tithes to them) may be brought to a want of a subsistence; and yet that this may be so done, only for those that are now made destitute, but no encouragement for any others in time to come. And by this the Magistrates (while every Sect maintain their own Ministers) will be freed from laying such intolerable burdens on their Subjects, having to provide for none else, but those, who are appointed in the general Assemblies or meeting-places, to read the holy Scriptures, and keep the people in order; to show that they are no maintainers of Sects, but of the Christian Religion; being as Fathers and Mediators, to bring the good together, out of all Sects, to unite under the name of Jesus, to the end that his Kingdom and Government may be enlarged, for an example to Holland, Denmark, Sweden, France, and other Kingdoms, who seeing there is no force nor constraint used, will easily be brought to a firm bond of Unity. This being the only means by forsaking all Men, and human-Forms, to be blessed by Christ (whose honour only is sought) against the Antichrist, contrary to the way of other Kings and Princes, who being separated from Popery, have made themselves unworthy of the blessing of Christ, by giving honour to the bare name of Luther, Calvin, and others, instead of giving it to Christ, having been deceived by the little Antichrists their followers; who as well as the great one, seek their own glory; ease, and idleness; and as if they had no fellowship with the great Antichrist, have put the holy Scriptures into the common people's hands, which was before was prohibited to be read, only seeking that we should agree with them in their Forms, applying and fitting themselves (such is their subtleties, to the temper of the times: as a Fowler gives scope to a Bird he hath already in a string, that so at length it may be content to live in a Cage. Now against these little Antichrists, who under the name of giving liberty, would bind the people to their opinions) the Magistrates (being taught by experience) should as well counter-work, as against the great, that they may come to the very root, bringing the holy Scripture (which was formerly prohibited to be read) with great Triumph into the general Assembly or meetingplace, and set it on high, to the end that the found or report of this, to wit, that Christ alone must rule (by his word) in the hearts of men, among all Nations (according to the great work done in England) may be heard, giving liberty to every one, after the reading of the Scripture (contrary to the little Antichrist, who will have it understood only according to their own Forms and Expositions) to set forth his own apprehension, without being bound to any one's opinion: That spiritual matters being applied to spiritual, Antichrist may be stormed with two Armies, viz. the Truth against Error, and the material sword against oppressors, who by their arrogating disposition and exclusion of others, do seek to restrain the liberty of speaking, which discovers the errors of the understanding for the cure thereof. Whereas, by stopping the mouths of people (as heretofore) they make men incurable.  
Now to further this, that the weakness or Ignorance of some may be remedied by the knowledge of others, without disturbance or Confusion, it will be necessary that the Authority of the Magistrate interpose in this general Assemby or meetingplace, that every one may speak in their order, staying their time, and those that break order, may (after due warning) be ejected, till they are better disposed, without oppressing them by Imprisonment or otherwise.  
This would be glad tiding, yea, a true year of Jubilee, for those that lie in prison, only for asserting their opinions in matters of Religion; that now they may (together with others) bring in their understandings into this general Assembly, to receive or give light. And to the end, that Antichrist (or he that exalts himself above others) may be continually shut out, it is exactly to be observed, that no pre-eminence or sole privilege be granted to any, (of offering any thing, or of speaking first) that so every one being at liberty and unhindered, may bring forth that which is most conducing to the Common welfare, according to the words of Paul, 1 Cor. 14.16. All of them sitting still, so long after the reading of the Scriptures (as being swift to hear and slow to speak) till any one think it fit (in his judicious and humble mind) to propose somewhat for mutual edification; endeavouring withal to make his discourse short, that another may have his turn likewise, contrary to the custom of the common Teachers, who only, or solely speaking, do lengthen out their discourse, to the weariness of their Auditory; for which end the Moderators (who ought to be meek and understanding men) are to observe that there be due order kept.  
This (seeing no Forms or Articles are made in it besides the holy Scripture) will be a Council and Synod, standing always open, to all rational people, without imposing any man's conclusions, contrary to the former Assemblies, who have excluded all Nations and Posterity (by their self conceitedness) dividing people, as by a wall of separation, one from another, by their Forms: whereupon great estrangement hath ensued, as if they were different Nations. And the better to set up their Antichristian Kingdom and dominion, have so contrived their Catechisms, that they have bound up, and so spoiled the understandings of their children, before they come to have the use of Reason, holding their dependants or Members, captive under them in their Net, as beasts, contrary to the order of their Creation: well knowing, that if they gave them the liberty of speaking, they would not be long worshipped as Idols, or sacrificed to, as Bell at Babel.  
Contrariwise, people, in the general Assemblies, when all understandings and tongues are free, will be stirred up to the exercise thereof, and by conferring together, will come to knowledge, love, and familiarity. The truth (which hath been long kept under or with held in unrighteousness) will scatter the lies, as light doth darkness, and the great credit, which we have given to some Teachers in particular, will by opposition be diminished, and the power of all Sects; (the one dispelling the Errors of the other) will be broken.  
This will be the place, where we shall discern & learn to know, the most wise as Solomon, and meek as Moses; which out of all Sects (only such as seek to domineer over others excluded) may be appointed as Councillors, 
The Magistrates from the highest to the lowest, aught to be men of public sp●●its for their work (concerning their office) is not a particular, but a general work.  to keep steady the balance of Government, without respect of persons, to the end, that the Spirit of God be not confined; which will be a sure mark, that Wisdom (for the sake of which Kings in times past were blessed) is under this Government esteemed above gold and silver; being the principal to distinguish all things, chief Policy from Religion, for the common good: For Magistrates (if they would remain without usurping the Office of Christ) may not make Laws in matters of Religion, but against evil deeds, to protect the good: To the end, that their Subjects (from whom they receive Taxes and Impositions) may be protected in peace, of what Religion soever they are: For the power to punish evil-doers, is ordained of God in all Lands, without respect of Religion, and whosoever opposeth that power, opposeth the Ordinance of God; not that all Officers (though they rule ill) are of God, or are his Ministers, but those only, who administer their Office rightly, according to Gods will: Otherwise, those who heretofore have risen up against Tyrants, opposing their persons, should have been indeed opposers of God's Ordinance: contrary to that of the Apostle, Rom. 13. who hath said, that such as are continually employed in the defence of the good, are the Ministers of God, until they have by false Teachers, been drawn besides their Office, to domineer over Consciences, and so brought into the service or Ministry of Satan, to the grief of their Subjects.  
But I hope, that once the sword, which hath been withheld from liars and oppressors, shall cut them off together with the Cable of their hope (the Tithes) that so the ground of almost all oppression being taken away, not only the Subjects, but also the Magistrates, may live in peace; who are now continually liable to hear the complaints of the head Sectaries, who seek to domineer over others, it being the nature of such, who finding their own weakness, do make power and force their refuge, contrary to the example of Christ and the Primitive Saints, whose strength was only the evidence of truth. Wherefore all people (and chief Magistrates) are to take heed that they assist not lies, using their power (according to God's Ordinance) only against those that are to the prejudice of good Government, or the hurt of mankind in general, without mingling Policy, and Religion, which were ordained for several ends; the one to defend the good men against the evil, and the other to make the evil good. There remains only, that the Magistrates (for an example to their Subjects) do null all humane commanding and constraining-Laws in spiritual matters, that so all plants, which the heavenly Father hath not planted, may (according to the saying of Christ) be rooted up, which will best take effect when the dominion of the Teachers, is through the power of the Governors, come to an end; and their hope of domineering over others cut off. 
☞  For Magistrates, instead of Lording it over Consciences, aught on the contrary to hinder all Lordship over Consciences, that complaining and murmuring may come to an end, and that the righteous may rejoice.  
For which end, that we may transmit the World unto our posterity, in a better condition than we first found it, I have contributed this little to my power.  
I beseech your Highness, let not any preingagement oblige you, to what you may afterwards see inconsistent with the Magistrates true interest, with the due liberty of God's people, and the free propagation of the Gospel. It were better for you and more for your Honour with Ahashuerus, to contradict your own hand and Seal, then with Herod, to perform a rash engagement.  
But while it is yet in your Highness' choice, let not the right hand of brave Achievements for the vindication of liberty be ever stained with authorising (to the honour of men, and dishonour of Christ) any Confession of Faith, Ordinance, or Decree; which will in the least entrench thereon, or indulge the enemies thereof. Be not deceived, by such persons as pretend to advance your Honour, as in the time of Daniel was done to King Darius, that the good people in those and other Nations, may not be disappointed of their hope and expectations in you.  
I do wish for conclusion, that your Highness, and all your Counsellors of State, to the bringing down of Antichrist, and all his Adherents, may have a great heart, and humble under God and Christ. That the great work done in England, come not to the Honour of a mortal man, but to the honour of him, who hath received the power over the Kingdoms of the earth.  
Be wise as Serpents, and innocent as Doves, Matth. 10.16.  
O Lord of all Lords, and Magistrates, teach them that rule as Gods in the world, to consider, that they are but men in thy eyes; That they may handle their Subjects after such a manner, as they wish to be handled by thee in thy judgement.   

To his Highness Richard Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland, etc. Peter Cornelius wisheth, an universal and unbiased heart, to the end he may as a true Moderator so hold the balance in the Government, that one Sect may not domineer over the other.  
Unexpected, yet (I hope) seasonable Lord Protector,  
BEing come into England in love, to the common good, I have after much longing several times had opportunity to speak with your Father about divers matters, to whom also I delivered two Letters, which he promised to consider of, and was willing I should have liberty further to declare my mind and sense unto him: this being prevented by his unexpected death, I have thought fit forasmuch as your Highness hath succeeded him, to transfer the aforementioned Letters to you, hoping that my counsel (which your Father did not despise) being joined with your power and goodness, will order all things in such a way that the light of liberty kindled in England, may enlighten all Kingdoms and Governements in the world.  
Your Highness is not ignorant how the Pope of Rome, and the Bishops have held many thousands, in these, and other Countries, together in a false Peace by the bands of Tyranny, until some magnanimous spirits (not able any longer to bear that injustice) did with a strong arm, throw of the Tyrannical yoke, by reason whereof the false peace, being thus interrupted the people is become divided into many kinds of Sects and opinions, which yet is better than to have them bound together in a false peace, with the bands of Tyranny, for the diseases as well of the mind, as of the body, cannot be cured unless they be first manifested, neither would he do the part of a skilful Chirurgeon, that should endeavour to skin over the wound, without cleansing the bottom, but rather discover his base design in preferring his own Interest before the health & welfare of the Patient, for this cause it will be good to suffer every one without any let or hindrance, to manifest his sense and disease (as well in spiritual as bodily matters) to the very bottom, that so the corruptions being found out, the remedy for cure of the same may be applied, to which purpose that every error might meet with its Antidote; I did in my Letters delivered to your Father, propound the setting up a general meetingplace, in all Cities and Countries, which might stand as a clear light between all Sects, for the dispelling of errors; not by violence, but by the power of Scripture and reason, without binding up the liberty of speaking, (whereby the defects of the understanding are kept hidden) which is already much laboured after by the little Antichrists, that seek their own greatness, but I hope that you, perceiving the mystery of Iniquity, will above all things remember England's liberty, which hath cost much blood, and with a generous spirit bring down all designs how subtle soever, without being deceived, by such as come in sheeps-clothing, with smooth and flattering words, and in a fair and specious outside, show themselves like Angels of light, against whom you ought as well to be armed with prudence, as against open enemies, that so the sword which is given for the protection of the good, may not be abused by those who have more hopes to prevail with you, than they had with your Father, who knew their dispositions by long experience, yet I hope you will show, and demonstrate by your works & actions, that you will in that, not only follow, but exceed the Exampler of your Father, by not establishing any particular Sect, (which in other Countries hath caused a total destruction of liberty) but by maintaining a toleration for all; For the Lord of heaven hath not designed England, for a particular but for a general work, therefore it is one of the main businesses of Magistrates, to try the spirits of those that repair to them, for there are two kinds of Spirits that stand in direct opposition, always working the one for their own particular, and the other for the common good, not only to cure the distempers of the mind, but also to take off the burdens and afflictions of the body, and when you are at a loss, stand centred in the eternals will, who can make way for true wisdom, to direct and lead you in and out, before the people. Thus having born testimony against all oppression, I leave it to God, yourself, and your Counsel, not doubting but if it should prove ineffectual God will raise up instruments for delivering of the oppressed,  
and subscribe myself to be, A well wisher of England's liberty, and all other Nations happiness, Peter Cornelius, Van-Zurick-Zee.  
FINIS.   

A merciful man (being sensible of the poverty and afflictions of others) cannot be in peace before he have done his endeavour (according to his power) to ease the burdens and afflictions of the oppressed: therefore have I, to discharge my duty, in another Treatise (which is to be published) propounded a way to make the poor distressed people, in these, and other Nations happy.