Peterkin Constitution of the Church of Scotland
Edinburgh, 1841

Mbtrrs

YALE
UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

PREFACE,

Although the Presbyterian Church of Scotland was first
established as the national system of religion and ecclesi-
asticd polity, in 1592, and was again revived in 1642
by the authority of the supreme legislature, yet it is to
the era of the Revolution 1688 that we must look as
that in which its constitution, as it now exists, is to be
found most distinctly developed. Almost every period of
its history has been largely illustrated, except that, per
haps, which it most behoves the present generation to
know and to study carefully. In addition to the olden
chroniclers, and the muniments which these and the
national records embody, the historical works of Principal
Robertson, Dr Cook, Mr Laing, and Dr M'Crie, con
tain very ample details of everything characteristic or
interesting in the earlier progress of our northern Es
tablishment. But none of those historians, with one
exception, bring down their narratives beyond the time
of the Revolution ; and from that date till the rise of
the great secession, betwixt the years 1732 and 1740,,
the annals of our Church, beyond what is to be found
scattered in the statute-books of the State and the
Church, are extremely meagre, unsatisfactory, and ill
adapted for affording general information. In these
circumstances, and in reference niore especially to certain
Teoent movements which enter deeply into, and are
calculated materially to affect, the Establishment of the
Scottish Church, it has b^en suggested that an authentic

and impartial account of our Revolution Chuech Es
tablishment may be useful, at a season when the
country is agitated with projects of innovation upon its
bases, and when the legislature is likely, ere long, to
be called on for its interposition, in composing the con
troversies which at present create a considerable commo
tion in the country.
It was the Editor's intention to recommence his labours
in the compilation of the " Records of the Kirk,"
(of which one volume has already been given to the
public, extending from 1638 to 1654, when the Presby
terian Establishment was extinguished by Cromwell,) in
a continuation of that work, beginning at the Revolution,
when it was restored. But he has found the research
and collection of materials requisite for the satisfactory
accomplishment of his purpose so extensive, that he
has been prevented by other avocations from prosecuting
that design, for the present at least, more especially, as
the earlier portions of his contributions to the ancient
ecclesiastical history of Scotland, have not hitherto
adequately remunerated those who adventured on the
undertaking. Recent occurrences, however, and the
present aspect of the fortunes of the Church, have sug
gested to him, that it may be of some importance, both
to the public and the legislature, to publish, without
delay, in a convenient form, all the documents which
are requisite for affording a correct view of the consti
tution of the present Church Establishment in Scotland,
as it was revived and new-modelled at the epoch of
the Revolution. Very erroneous notions prevail both
with respect to that constitution and to the working
and effects of it, — the period from 1690 to 1712, when
patronage was again restored, being currently represented
as one of the golden eras in its history.* The most
¦ Dr Chalmers. — " It should never be forgotten that the Church was
never more eiBcient as a christian and moral institute than from
1690 to 1712, — and that in opposition to the lying preamble of Queen
Anne's act for. the restoration of patronage, there had only occurred
fourteen disputed cases." — Correspondence with Lord Aberdeen p. 42,—
Vide alio Mr Begg's Lecture on Patronage, S(c.

Ill

effectual antidote to such illusions is the examination
of the muniments and records of the period, — the real
facts of the case being infinitely preferable to any theories
which have been hazarded on the subject. And hence,
although the Editor cannot all at once accomplish the
whole that he had in view, he humbly thinks that it
may be of advantage to digest and publish, in as narrow
a compass as possible, all the acts of Parliament and
of the Church at the time of the Revolution, and for a
short period subsequently to that event, along with such
. additional illustrative matter as has come within his
reach. Such is the object of the present publication.
Amongst the illustrations which he purposes giving,
there are two portions that derive their value not more
from their newness to the public than from their intrinsic
qualities. During the most critical period of the Re
volution, George Earl of Leven and Melville held the
important office of Secretary of State for Scotland ; and,
in that character, he necessarily had extensive correspond
ence, with all the leading Scotchmen of the time. Of
that correspondence a large portion has been preserved
in the repositories of his descendants ; but with the
exception of a very limited portion, which was printed
.lor private circulation last summer by the Hon. W.
Leslie Melville, none of that correspondence has hitherto
been given to the public. It is, however, about to be
printed by the Bannatyne Club ; and when the whole
shall appear, it will throw much new light on the secret
springs by which that great movement was accelerated to
its accomplishment. In the meanwhile, the Editor of
these sheets has been allowed access to those valuable
papers, and most liberally permitted to make such selec
tions as he deemed fitting for his purpose. Of that polite
indulgence he trusts he has made a discreet use, — con-
;$ning his excerpts entirely to such passages as bore most
emphatically on the affairs of the Church.
The other document to which he refers, is an authentic
cdpy of the minutes of the General Assembly that was

ir

held in 1692, being the second after the establishment of
the Church in 1690, but of whose proceedings no authen
tic report has ever been printed, so far as can be dis
covered, either in the acts of the General Assembly or
otherwise. It is the more important that the proceedings
of that Assembly should see the Hght, inasmuch as it
was dissolved and dismissed by the authority of Ae Sove
reign. Such an event is instructive as a practical inter
pretation of the constitution of the Church, then so re
cently established, — and, as such, it is now presented to the
public. Edinburgh, 2Qth Aprii 1841.
V*' Table of Contents and Index, apud finemi.

INTRODUCTION.

It does not come within the scope of our design, in this
tractate, to enter on minute historical details of the events
which occurred from the time that the Presbyterian Church
of Scotland was extinguished as an establishment under
the usurpation of Cromwell, and during the reign of
Charles II. or of his brother James II. At the time of
Cromwell's invasion ©f Scotland, and, indeed, for many
previous years, the Presbyterian clergy had attained an
ascendency in the political government of the country,
which was altogether incompatible with the existence both
of monarchy and a mixed form of government, or with
public liberty. Their rule became an ecclesiastical demo
cracy, which, like all other democracies, fell to pieces in
consequence of its own internal convulsions; and, from
the date of Cromwell's conquest, brought about mainly
by the fanatical zeal of the Churchmen and their asso
ciates, the Presbyterian Church was in a state of abeyance,
till 1690, as a recognised national institution.
The gloomy and despotical puritanism which the clergy
enforced in the times of the Covenant, and even after
wards, so far as their power extended, gave way at the
restoration in 1660 ; and the factitious austerity and seem
ing devotion which had been produced by a coercive cleri
cal inquisition among the people, was speedily succeeded
by a flood of licentiousness which then overspread the
land. It were superfluous to dwell on the scenes which

followed during the period of twenty-eight years, as these
have been fully illustrated in the pages of the industrious
Wodrow, * and in numberless other works relative to a
portion of our history, which is a scandal to our country
and revolting to every well-constituted mind. It is suffi
cient for our present purpose, and as a fitting introduction
to the various documents which follow, to give a brief
sketch of the causes which more immediately operated in
bringing about that most important event to which our
attention is now more peculiarly devoted.

The great and efficient cause of our Revolution was the
inordinate assertion of arbitrary power by King James II.,
acting under the influence of Popish principles and Popish
counsels. This tyranny and contempt of the laws, by the
King and his Popish advisers, produced a simultaneous
revulsion and resistance in the whole nation, and led to
the Revolution in 1688.
Although the lights of the Protestant faith had un
shackled the national mind in Britain, to a considerable
extent, in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, yet the despotical
principles of that Sovereign, and of her successor James,
(the first who ruled over both England and Scotland,) as
to political doctrines, assumed as a basis the divine right of
kings and the passive obedience of subjects ; and the
limitations which were adopted practically as rules of go
vernment, were rather modifications of these, than clear
and recognised laws to which the subjects could appeal.
Charles the First, acting under the influence of these pre
judices with more tenacity than wisdom, precipitated both
kingdoms into a situation in which nothing remained but
an appeal to the ultima ratio regum et hominum, — the
sword. Civil war ensued ; and, in the end, terminated in
his falling a victim on the scaffold by the hands of his
subjects. This was followed by its natural consequences, — a mili-
" History of the Sufferinesof the Chuieh of Scotland from the Restora
tion to the Revolution,— 1722.

tary usurpation, — a compound of force, of fraud, and of
hypocrisy. And when this fell to pieces by the demise of
Cromwell, whose commanding personal talents alone sus
tained his government, the restoration of Charles II. was
effected, partly by the tergiversation of General Monck,
and partly by the national feeling in favour of a legitimate
hereditary monarchy.
^ Charles II., while an exile in France, changed his reli-
fion, and became a Papist.* When, however, in 1650,
e arrived in Scotland, and before landing on its shores,
he subscribed the National Covenant, repudiating the
tenets of Popery ; and again he adhered to that oath
when crowned at Scone. But the fortune of war drove
him once more into exile, and it was not until 16C0, upon
Cromwell's death, that the restoration was effected, after
twenty years of civil war.
" The fairest hopes (says Mr Laing) were entertained
of the prosperity of the new reign, which nothing could
have disappointed but the misconduct, or rather the crimes,
of government ; the predilection of Charles for a foreign
interest, his secret attachment to the Romish faith, and,
above all, his perseverance in the arbitrary measures
which his father had pursued. It was from these and
other causes that the government of Scotland became
hostile, and gradually odious, to the people, till it dege
nerated at length into a sanguinary and cruel despotism,
for which there was no cure but the expulsion of the
Stuarts." t
And Mr Fox informs us,t that after the fall of Clarendon,
" the King had entered into that career of misgovernment
which, that he was able to pursue to its end, is a disgrace
to the history of our country. If anything can add to our
disgust at the meanness with which he solicited a depend
ence upon Lewis XIV.. it is the hypocritical pretence
upon which he was continually pressing that Monarch.
After having passed a law making it penal to affirm (what
was true) that he was a Papist, he pretended (which
was certainly not true) to be a zealous and bigoted
Papist, — and the uneasiness of his conscience at so long
delaying a public avowal of his conversion, was more
than once urged by him as an argument to increase the
pension, and to accelerate the assistance he was to re-
• Burnet, vol. i. p. 117. + History of Scotland, vol. ii. p. 2.
t Hist. James II. p. 23.

ceive from France." (Dalrymple's Mem. il. 33, &c.)
" Though neither the nature and extent of his connection
with France, nor his design of introducing Popery
into England, 'were known at that time as they now
are, yet there were not wanting many indications of the
King's disposition, and of the general tendency of his
designs." * Charles " died in the bosom of the Romish
Church," t — so that while, like a true hypocrite, he process
ed to be a Protestant, and swore to maintain the true Pro
testant Churches, he was in truth a Papist, and lived and
died in that faith.
The fact of Qharles II. being a Roman Catholic being
now established by evidence which is altogether indis
putable, it may be proper to attend to the character of the
ministers and counsellors which it brought around him,
and to the consequences M'hich flowed from the principles
of government on which they acted.
Without going into a detail of all the enormities and atro
cious instances of tyranny which distinguished the court
and the reign of Charles, we shall, for the sake of brevity,
quote from the historians alluded to, some notices of these
particulars. It is certain that this King of Britain was, during the
greater part of his reign, a traitor to his country, and a
corrupted pensioner of a foreign power, — and under the
influence of Popish principles. Mr Fox informs us, upon
the authority of historical evidence which admits of no
challenge, that the King having secured to himself a good
pension from France, dissolved the parliament of Oxford,
" with a full resolution never to call another ; to which
resolution, indeed, Lewis had bound him as one of the con
ditions on which he was to receive his stipend. No mea
sure (says Mr Fox) was ever attended with more complete
success. The most flattering addresses poured in from all
parts of the kingdom : divine right and indiscriminate
obedience were everywhere the favourite doctrines ; and
men seemed to vie with each other who should have the
honour of the greatest share in the glorious work of
slavery." J
" The whole history of the remaining part of his reign
(continues Mr Fox §), exhibits an uninterrupted series
of attacks upon the liberty, property, and lives of his
• Fox, p. 29. t Laing, ii, p. 138. i Fox, p. 43. § Ibid.

subjects. The character of the government appeared
first, and with the most marked and prominent features, in
Scotland. The condemnation of Argyle and Weir, — the
one for having subjoined an explanation when he took
the test oath, the other for having kept company with a
rebel, whom it was not proved he knew to be such,
and who had never been proclaimed, — resemble more
the acts of Tiberius and Domitian, than those of even
the most arbitraiy modern governments." " The terror
of these examples would have been, in the judgment
of most men, abundantly sufficient to teach the people
of Scotland their duty, and to satisfy them that their
lives, as well as everything else they had been used
to call their own, were now completely in the power of
their masters. But the government did not stop here ;
and having outlawed thousands upon the same pretence
upon whicsrWeir had been condemned, inflicted capital
punishment upon such criminals, of both sexes, as refused
to answer, or answered otherwise than was prescribed to
them, to the most ensnaring questions." Mr Fox then
gives a similar account of the oppressions in England:
" Convictions against evidence, sentences against law,
enormous fines, cruel imprisonments, were the principal
engines employed for the purpose of breaking the spirit of
individuals, and fitting their necks for the yoke. But it
was not thought fit to trust wholly to the effect which
such examples would produce upon the public. That the
subjugation of the people might be complete, and de
spotism be established upon the most solid foundation,
measures of a general nature and effect were adopted ;
and first the charter of London and then those of almost
all the other corporations in England, were either forfeited
or forced to surrender." To consummate the establish
ment of despotism, he ordered a declaration to be framed,
in which he asserted, " that as the crown was the origin
of the rights and liberties of the people, so was it their
most certain and secure support ! " •
The heart grows sick at the recital of horrors and poli
tical murders which then filled the kingdom ; but we may
just quote as examples, that for the death of Archbishop
Sharp, five persons, " innocent of the Archbishop's blood,
were selected to expiate his murder at Magus Moor, —
twelve hundred persons, conducted from Bothwell, were
• Fox, p. 56.

confined in the Greyfriars' Churchyard, where they re
mained five months, uncovered and exposed to the incle-*^
mency of the season. Of these a portion " were shipped
for the plantations, — but the vessel was lost in the Ork
neys ; and, from the inhumanity of the master, who re
fused to release the prisoners, 200 perished in the wreck." *
The country was at length relieved from the oppressions
of this profligate and unprincipled tyrant by his death in
1685 ; and it may be an instructive lesson in the present
times, to look back to the characters of the advisers and
instruments of his butcheries and oppressions. They were
one and all of them like himself, either Catholics, or men
utterly destitute of all religion, and steeped in every vice
and crime by which the personal characters of public men
can be " damned to everlasting fame," — such men as are
ever readily found when the purposes and doctrines of
arbitrary power are to be carried into effect, — men des
titute alike of private virtue and of honour as public ser
vants. Among his counsellors, his brother, James Duke of
York, must be regarded as the chief; and it may be men
tioned, as a proof of his own devotedness to Popery, that
soon after his accession, that person published an attesta
tion of his brother's having died a Roman Catholic, along
with two papers drawn up by him in favour of that per-
suasion,^ — documents which show, when contrasted with
his persecution of the Presbyterians in Scotland, that he
acted on the principle of no faith being kept with heretics ;
for he murdered, tortured, and hunted to the death, those
very men with whom he had united in an obligation to
abide by the Protestant religion, merely because they
were faithful to their oath and to their God, and he him
self was a perjure'd apostate. Of James's character we
shall speak hereafter.
The chief English counsellors of Charles were Halifax,
Rochester, Sunderland, and Jeffries ; Monck, too, was his
military tool. The first of these signalized himself by oppos >
ing the bill for excluding James as a Papist from the success
ion, and then supported him in all atrocities. The second
was the most abandoned profligate of a profligate age.
Sunderland first supported the exclusion bill, but was con
verted, — and again (upon James's own authority), he was
reconverted, and plotted for banishing Charles once more
* Laing, Wodrow, &c. f Fox, p. 95

from the throne, and placing the crown on Monmouth's
head. The character of Jefli-ies was written in blood, and
has not one redeeming trait lo rescue it from infamy.
Monck was one " than whom a baser could not be found,"
— the tool and adulator of an usurper, and afterwards
the converted tool of a tyrant. These were the wor
thies, — the converts of former times in England, — and
those in Scotland are well delineated by Burnet and Mr
Laing. They were the confidential servants of the Popish
Charles and of his Popish successor.
" They were almost perpetually drunk," — " and the
commissioner Middleton often appeared so drunk upon
the throne, that the parliament was adjourned." " "The
most licentious intemperance and excess of debauchery
were termed loyalty, — gravity, sedition." " Lauderdale
was originally not less attached to the Covenant than
afterwards to the court, — he engaged in its measures with
the zeal of a proselyte, determined that no compliance
should be omitted to promote his ambition or preserve his.
place^"* Sharpe, originally a Presbyterian minister, was
intrusted by his country to negotiate for the restora
tion of Charles on the terms of the Covenant, but was
converted by the Primacy of the Scotch Episcopalian
Church. " He was vain, vindictive, perfidious, — at oilce
haughty and servile, rapacious and cruel." " His apo-
stacy was never forgiven by the Presbyterians ; but,
instead of disarming their resentment by moderation, he
became an unrelenting persecutor, like most apostates,
actuated by a hatred to the sect which he had deserted
and betrayed." But the character of the whole group is
so well depicted in the following sketch, that is quite suf
ficient without any further particular details.
After the oppressions of the government had rendered
the people of Scotland desperate, a shot was fired at
Sharpe, in the High Street of Edinburgh. Sharpe had
observed a person who eyed him attentively, and when
arrested, he proved to be Mitchell, a preacher of the per
secuted Covenanters. " A loaded pistol was found in his
custody, but no proof appeared of his actual guilt. A
solemn promise was made by Sharpe to procure a pardon
if he would confess the fact. On the most solemn assu
rance of life, confirmed by the Chancellor, Commissioner,
and Privy Council,he acknowledged the attempt to assassi-
• Laing.

8
nate the Primate." " The perfidious council proceeded
to determine what punishment less than death might be
inflicted on the crime. The Justiciary Court was in
structed secretly to pronounce a sentence for the amputa
tion of his hand ; but when produced to renew the con
fession at the bar, the whisper of a judge in passing
admonished him to acknowledge nothing, unless his limbs
as well as his life were secured. The torture was next
applied, under a false pretext, to extort a confession of his
concern in the insurrection of Pentland, and after endur
ing the question till he fainted under the strokes of the
executioner, he remained four years in the fetters, forgotten
in the solitary confinement of the Bass. At first it was
proposed to cut off both his hands, but this was prevented,
not from humanity, but by a jest of Rothes too gross to
be transcribed."
" His trial, on the return of Lauderdale, was now re
sumed at the instigation of Sharpe. Nisbet, the King's
advocate, was displaced for Mackenzie, who, as Mitchell's
counsel in the former trial, could not be ignorant of the
assurance of his life, yet preferred an indictment against
him for a capital crime. Primrose, from the lucrative
office of Clerk Register removed to be Justice-General,
transmitted privately to his advocates a copy of the act
of council, in wliich the assurance was contained. His
former extrajudicial confession, the only evidence of his
attempts to assassinate a prelate and a privy councillor,
was attested by Sharpe the Primate, Rothes the Chan
cellor, Lauderdale High Commissioner, and Hatton a
Lord of the Treasury and Session, who did not scruple,
in their zeal to convict the prisoner, to declare on oath,
that no assurance whatever had been given for the preser
vation of his life. " The copy of the act of council was
produced, — the books of council, deposited in the adjoining
chamber, were demanded as evidence for the prisoner,
since his extrajudicial confession before the same judica
ture was admitted as proof. But the Duke of Lauder
dale, as a witness not entitled to speak, interrupted the
court in a strain of imperious authority ; declared that
the books of council contained the secrets of the King,
which no court could be admitted to examine ; and, con
cluding that the four councillors came not there to be
accused of perjury, it was immediately understood that
they were all forsworn. The court, intimidated, perhaps,
by his threats, determined, by an obsequious majority.

that it was too late to apply for production of the record,
of which an authenticated copy had been refused by the
Clerk. ¦ But it is observable, as a melancholy instance of
the depravity or servility of the bench, that the Justice-
General, who furnished a surreptitious copy, and had
previously admonished Lauderdale of the existence of the
act, possessed neither the virtue nor the fortitude to attest
the fact, as a witness or a judge, but pronounced the con
demnation of a man to death, whom his evidence should
have preserved.
" Before the jury had returned a verdict, the four lords,
as soon as the court adjourned, examined the books of
council, where the evidence of their perjury was record
ed, and is still preserved, to their eternal reproach.
Their conduct sufficiently evinces the persuasion under
which they acted, that there was no record of their
assurance to Mitchell ; and they still affected to believe,
that nothing more was intended than a promise to in
tercede with the King for his life. The blame was
transferred from the Chancellor, who subscribed, to the
Clerk, who inserted the assurance in their minutes ; the
latter discovered that the act of council was framed by
Nisbet, from whom they proposed to levy a severe fine ;
but he procured nine privy councillors, who offered to
swear, — Lord Hatton's letters were produced to prove,
that a full assurance of life had been approved and con
firmed by the priry council, when engrossed in its books.
Lauderdale was at length inclined to grant a respite
till the King was consulted, but the Primate was in
exorable. He urged that the example was absolutely
necessary to preserve his life from assassins, to which
Lauderdale assented with a profane and inhuman jest.
* * * • It was the ardent desire of ministers
to involve the whole body of Presbyterians in his guilt ;
but in the prosecution of this object they incurred the
just imputation of more detestable crimes. Horror and
universal execration were excited By the treachery and
perjuries of the first ministers in the Church and State." *
Such were the characters of the men and ministers
who ruled this country under diaries II., and under
his brother James II. on his accession in 1685 ; and
although it has been said that all those men were
Protestants, and that their atrocities were perpetrated
• Laing, vol. i. p. 71.

10
to establish Prelacy, it must be obvious, that, so far
from being Protestants, they were unprincipled apostates,
devoid of all religion, and all sense of moral obligation.
The tyranny, of which they were the fitting instruments,
was unquestionably Popish in all its characteristics, —
in the tenets of the kings, whose arbitrary and intole
rant principles they upheld, — and these were first vented
on the Presbyterians of Scotland, because they were the
more powerless of the two Protestant Churches establish
ed in the country, and more hostile in their notions to
the doctrines of passive obedience. The Church of
England was still too powerful to be openly assaulted ;
but it was destined, by the great champion of the
Papacy in those days, to fall ere long by the surer
processes of sapping and mining ; and he displayed his
stratgy, as will be done by all after him who have the
same objects in view, not by a bold and direct attack
upon the unbroken phalanx, but by penetrating the
extended lines, and cutting off the least protected wings
of the opposing power. This is no mere theory ; for
no sooner had James quenched the established religion
and the liberty of Scotland, as he thought, in the blood
of the country, than he threw off the mask, and aimed direct
attacks upon the Episcopal Church of England ; and this
he did, by adding to this band of Protestant apostates
and infidels a dominant and auxiliary horde of Catholics.
On ascending the throne, he made a declaration to
his council, that he would follow his brother's example
in clemency and tenderness to his people, and disclaimed
being a man for arbitrary power. " I shall make it
my endeavour to preserve this government both in
Church and State, as it is now by law established." He
said he would always take care to defend and support
the Church of England, and " never invade any man's
property," and " go as far as any man in preserving the
nation in all its past rights and privileges."* And
before commencing his attack upon the Protestantism
of England, he began his operations by an experiment
upon a parliament in Scotland. His letter upon that
occasion gave similar pledges and promises with those
in his declaration to the English council; but it will
be seen h9w sacred and inviolable is the word of a
Popish prince, when expediency, — that paramount prin-
• Kennet, iii. 420.

II
ciple among convertible statesmen, — presents itself in
" gigantic power."
The " clemency" and " tenderness" of James were
illustrated very satisfactorily in a letter, in which he said,
" Lord Chief Justice (Jeffries) is making his campaign
in the west. Lord Chief Justice has almost done his
campaign ; he has already condemned several hundreds,
some of whom are already executed, more are to be,
and the others sent to the plantations."* Notwithstand
ing the "word of a prince," he intimated to the par
liament of England his resolution to maintain a standing-
army, and to dispense with the penal laws and the
tests, by which Papists were excluded from power.
He did not himself take the coronation oath ; and when
he thus avowed his intention of establishing the Romish
religion, none but Catholics adhered to, or supported,
him in England. In Scotland, Perth the Chancellor,
and Melfort his brother, were converted to Popery.
" The administration, entrusted to none but Papists,
was committed to Perth, a timorous and cruel, — to
Melfort, a cruel and rapacious statesman, — and to the
Earl of Murray, a convert admitted to an ostensible
share of power. Proselytes were not numerous ; but
the new-born zeal of the Chancellor was indefatigable.
Shoals of priests were allured to Scotland. The press
was abandoned to their care and diligence, — a royal
seminar}'', or college of Jesuits, for the gratuitous in
struction of youth, was erected in the palace," and a
chapel for the celebration of mass. Murray was appointed
Chancellor, as the fittest convert to obtain a repeal of
the statutes passed under the influence of his own
ancestor against Papists at the Reformation ; and the
specious proposition of James was " the removal of every
disability." In Scotland, Episcopal judges were removed from
the bench, and bishops from their benefices, for opposing
James's scheme, and some of the time-servers were
promoted; but in parliament "the commissioners of
shires and burrows, who adhered together, continued,
without a leader among the nobility, firm and united in
their opposition to the court ; " and this manly resist
ance compelled James to dissolve the Scottish parliament,
in which a sufficient majority could not be converted.
• Dalrymple.

12
This, however, was nothing to James. By virtue of
his supreme arbitrary dispensing power, he repealed the
laws of the land, and declared Papists entitled to the
enjoyment of " all offices and benefices to be hereafter
conferred." He annulled the oath of his own ecclesias
tical supremacy and the tests, and substituted a new
oath of allegiance, not only to renounce resistance, but
to maintain the fiill exercise of his absolute power !
He did not, however, go so far as to maintain that
there was any necessity for this, or that we must believe
the existence of such a necessity, — because bis chief
advisers said so.
In England, the infatuation of James was displayed as
conspicuously, and with more hazard to the security
of his power, than even in Scotland, In spite of his
declaration, immediately after his brother's death, that
he would uphold the Church of England, he acted upon
the hollow principle of accomplishing that purpose by
conferring all power and honour upon the Popish re
ligion. He openly attended the Roman Catholic worship
the first Sunday after his succession, and he soon after
invited Roman Catholic priests from foreign countries,
and encouraged them to exercise their functions. A
Popish bishop was consecrated in his chapel at Windsor,
whilst laymen of that persuasion were made judges,
lords-lieutenant of counties, king's counsel, sheriffs, may
ors, and justices of peace ; and he sent an ambassador
to the Pope to solicit a re-union of England with the
Papal See, by the advice of Father Petre, his confessor.
Clarendon was superseded in the lieutenantcy of Ireland ;
and in that country all the laws for maintaining the
Protestant religion were violated, and all places in the
army and the civil department, were conferred upon that
class ; and on the opening of the English parliament
1685, he announced to both houses that he had dispensed
with the tests and other barriers of the Protestant con
stitution. These proceedings created alarm in the coun
try and in parliament, and not being so pliant as he
anticipated, it was prorogued.
Finding that he could not effect his purpose through
the instrumentality of parliament, he chose another and
daring course. Father Petre, his political as well as
his ghostly instructor, was appointed a member of the
privy council and clerk of the closet, and had a dwell
ing assigned him within the precincts of the palace.

13
enjoying thus an intimate communication with James
and his consort, exercising a complete ascendency over
their minds, and goading them on to a course of pro
ceeding equally inconsistent with the laws of the land,
the control of parliament, and the rights of the people.
In pursuance of these counsels, he proceeded to
strengthen his arbitrary pretensions by procuring the
decision of a court of law, in which Jeffries presided,
that, in virtue of his prerogative, he possessed a power
of dispensing with the- tests, and of appointing persons
of the Popish Church to all the offices which were
'under the patronage of the crown. His first exertion
of this assumed prerogative was to appoint a pensioner
in the Charter House Hospital, without requiring a
subscription of conformity to the Church of England
or the oath of allegiance, although these were required
by the will of the donor. His next attempt was to
obtain the degree of master of arts from the University
of Cambridge for a Benedictine monk without admini
stering any oath ; and when his letter was regarded by
the consistory as a command to violate their oaths, and
compliance with it refused, the Vice-Chancellor was
summoned before an ecclesiastical commission, and sen
tenced to lose his office. He made a similar attack
upon the University of Oxford, and issued a royal
mandate, requiring Magdalen College to elect a Jesuit
to be their president, exempting him from the oaths
required by law, and by the statutes of the University.
This mandate was disobeyed by a majority as incon
sistent with their oaths. The person whom they
appointed was deprived of his office, and the Vice-
Chancellor was suspended by the same ecclesiastical
commission, which had been abolished for ever, and
declared illegal by a statute after the restoration.
After endeavouring in vain to pack a parliament for
the sanction of these assumptions of arbitrary power, main
tained by the open and undisguised influence of his
Popish counsellors, he collected an army (1687) on
Hounslow Heath, and published a declaration for what
was called liberty of conscience, — expressing his firm
purpose of dispensing with all tests and oaths for the
future. This declaration, backed by an order from the
privy council, he directed to be read in all the churches
of England; for which purpose copies were sent for
distribution by the bishops in their several dioceses.
B

14
The Archbishop of Canterbury and six others, con
ceiving these stretches of authority to be illegal, refused
to transmit the declaration. They were in consequence
committed prisoners to the Tower, and their petition
treated as a seditious^ libel against the King and his
government; and for this imputed offence, they were
brought to trial on the 15th of June 1688, when they
were acquitted amidst the acclamations of the people,
who regarded them as the champions of law and of
liberty, and the victim of Popish and arbitrary power.
These unequivocal symptoms of a Popish despotism
in the conduct and councils of King James, were re
garded by the whole kingdom as a manifest infraction
of all the liberties of the subject, and as an announce
ment that there was to be no law henceforward in the
land, save his will and the decrees of his Popish adher
ents, — he himself being the pensionary of the King of
France, and his advisers the instruments of a foreign
Pontiff, Such a state of matters brought to an im
mediate issue the questions, — whether the Sovereign
of Great Britain was an arbitrary Monarch, or whether
the people had any rights independently of such an
assumed power? The voice of the country settled the
question. King James, appalled by the resistless and
unanimous voice of his pet^le, abandoned his throne
and his country r and tlie Revolution settlement, of which
we have thus succinctly traced the causes, established
the doctrine, that this country is to be ruled by some
known and fundamental laws enacted by parliament,
which cannot be subverted without restoring matters
to that state and condition in which they were at the
time our fathers were placed, by the abdication of
King James, — when they were under the necessity of
exerting those inherent powers of society which belong
to human beings, called on to frame a government for
themselves and their posterity. From this dissolution
of the government, a constitution sprang up, which,
for a period of one hundred and fifty years, has dis
tinguished this country from all other nations on the
face of the earth. Looking to the constitution as
established at the Revolution, and since improved
and consolidated, we hold its fundamental regulations
to be a blessing of inestimable value to our coun
try. •' Our Constitution" has been our stay and
our glory amidst the convulsions of the world, — the

If)
theme of our patriot's song in peace, and the inspirino-
war-cry in the midst of perils in the cause of libert/,
—a pillar of cloud by day, in the wilderness of human
affairs,— and of fire, to guide us when "the starless
night of desolation " reigned over Europe. " To sustain,
torepair, to beautify this noble pile, is a charge intrusted
principally to the nobility and such gentlemen of the
kingdom as are delegated by their country to parliament.
The protection of the liberty of Britain is a duty which
they owe to themselves who enjoy it, to their ancestors
who transmitted it down, and to their posterity who will
claim at their hands this the best birthright and noblest
inheritance of mankind." *
From these more general views of the forerunners of
the Revolution, we must now, however, withdraw our
attention to the circumstances which preceded that
event in connection with the restoration of the Presby
terian form of church government in Scotland, — and to
these we shall now briefly advert.
Without recapitulating any of the sufferings of the
proscribed party, or the various schisms which took place
among them, in consequence of the indulgences proposed
to them from time to time by the King, while meditating
the revival of Popery, through the instrumentality of
a general, though hampered, toleration, — and referring
for all these particulars to Wodrow's ample stores of
documents, we proceed at once to the year 1687, in the
course of which a third toleration was tendered to the
Presbyterians, by proclamation, dated at London the
28th of June, and at Edinburgh on the 5th of July
following. That proclamation is the first document
which we think it requisite to embody in the following
coUection.f Its substance was that the King granted
liberty to all his subjects to worship God " in their own
way and manner," provided this were done in private
houses, chapels, or houses purposely built or hired ; but
nothing was to be said to alienate the loyalty of the
people, and their worship was to be openly, peaceably,
and publicly conducted in their chapels, — all field meet
ings (the source of so much mischief and persecution)
being strictly forbidden.

Blackstone. "Y Vidt Documents.

16
The poor Presbyterians, — hunted and wellnigh bro
ken-hearted by the long train of oppressions to which
they had been subjected, — received this toleration with
thankfulness, and even gratitude ; although it was the
result of an illegal dispensation with the existing statute
law. Accordingly, a number of the Presbyterian mi
nisters from different parts of the country assembled at
Edinburgh on the 20th of July, and having resolved to
accede to the indulgence, the greater number of them
agreed to accept the relief thus afforded, and adopted
an address of thanks to the King. Wodrow states that
James Renwick, the noted field-preacher, was the only
one he knew who did not accede to the toleration thus
granted. It afforded instant relief and liberty to many
who were in prison or suffering for their religious opi
nions, — and many Presbyterian ministers who had gone
abroad returned home. There was also an address from
the inhabitants of Edinburgh of a similar tenor.*
Before separating, the ministers who had assembled
on this occasion adopted certain rules or overtures for
their common guidance, under thd improved circumstances
in which they were now placed, and a circular letter to
be sent to their several flocks. These documents are
interesting as a record of the views and feelings of the
Presbyterian clergy, anterior to, and on the eve of, a
revolution, which was destined, in a few short months
afterwards, to restore them to their position as the
Established Church of the land. The overtures are
interesting too, as affording a picture of that polity
adopted, if not inherited, from the|| time of the Covenant,
when the call of the people, which has subsequently
led to so much controversy, was adopted as an essential
element by the Presbyterians, when they were a voluntary
or unendowed church, alternately persecuted or tolerated,
but unsanctioned by the State. At all events, whether
this be so or not, the regulations thus adopted and re
commended, indicate a prudence and moderation of spirit
among men just emancipated from a cruel thaldrom, by
which they had long been ground to the earth, and their
spirits sorely depressed.f
Availing themselves of the toleration thus vouchsafed
" Wodrow, vol. ii. p. 617, 618. + See Documenti.

17
to them, the Presbyterian Church began once more to
assume its ancient organization.* Their several judica
tories met, according to the model established by the act
1592 ; and besides sessional and presbyterial meetings,
a synod was assembled at Glasgow on the 30th of August
following. That synod encouraged the training of young
men for the ministry, appointed a professor of theology,
and adopted such other measures as were suggested by
their renovated position. Wodrow informs us, that " the
liberty' thus granted was greedily embraced by the multi
tudes on the south side of the Tay. Large and spacious
meeting-houses were soon built in many of the towns
through the west, south, and east of Scotland, — and even
through the country parishes, and all over those parts,
and even in several places in the north, Presbyterian
ministers preached and were settled upon the call of the
people ; and the auditories of the Epis\:opal clergy turned
very thin, — yea, in many places in the south and west,
they had nobody to hear them save their own families.
Likewise, the nobility and gentry, some of them of the
highest rank in the kingdom, left the churches, and fre
quented the meeting-houses this year and the following."*
An incident occurred, in the course of the year, which
perhaps tended materially to the furtherance of the Revolu
tion in Scotland. A Mr Patrick Warner, an expatriated
Scottish clergyman, who had taken refuge in Holland,
got a call from the magistrates and inhabitants of Irvine
to be minister in that town. Before leaving Holland, he
had audiences of the Princess and Prince of Orange, in
which they both expressed the warmest sympathy with
the past sufferings of his Presbyterian countrymen, and
an earnest wish for their peace and prosperity. Tidings
like these, on Warner's return, could not fail to spread
rapidly among his brethren ; and thus, perhaps, was the
foundation laid among them of that decided leaning, which,
notwithstanding the recent indulgence shown them, they,
at no distant period, evinced in favour of William and
Mary's accession to the throne of Scotland .f James
Renwick was the last victim who suffered on the scaf
fold, in February 1688, under the sanguinary laws of the
Stuajt dynasty, — the public feeling being thus painfully

" Vide Wodrow, vol. ii. p. 621, 622. + Wodrow, vol. ii. p. 624.625.

18
exasperated by the sacrifice of an ardent enthusiast, who
spurned the toleration which, had been accepted by his
brethren, and he perished with the reputation of a
martyr. Had he been overlooked, his zeal might have
evaporated, and his field preachings became innocuous
under contempt ; but his execution awakened of new the
bitter remembrance of long-continued persecutions, and
aided in rekindling the expiring flames of Presbyterian
hostility to Popery and Prelacy, which, at that time, were
deemed synonymous in the estimation of all the descend
ants of the Covenanters.
Among the other blunders in the policy of James, he
could not repress his inordinate passion for openly restoring
Popery. During the year 1687, and early in 1688, he
established Popish schools in Holyrood House and in
Edinburgh. These were dignified with the name of a
'• Royal College," — the pupils were to be taught gratis,
and, as an allurement, assurances were given that no dif
ferences of religion were to be noticed. It was impossi
ble, in the nature of things, that such establishments,
under the superintendence of Jesuites, should not excite
jealousies and alarm among a people who were exces
sively sensitive upon all matters of a religious character,
— and such was the effect which they produced; but it
were foreign to our present object to enter on any de
tails, either of the political or military movements which
heralded, attended, or followed the Revolution, — our at
tention being directed solely to the events connected with
ecclesiastical affairs ; and these may be briefly stated, in a
very few sentences, as a preliminary to the perusal of the
various documents in which the essence of that portion of
our history is embodied.
On the 5th of November 1688, the Prince of Orange
landed at Torbay, from a fleet of six hundred ships
of war and transports which he had brought with him
from Holland; and, on the 28th of December, King
James abdicated his throne by flying from England.
When the tidings of these events reached Scotland a
few days after, the bitter spirit of dissaffection towards
the fugitive Sovereign burst forth, — and his panic-struck
counsellors and friends being paralyzed and otherwise
unprepared for the shock, an insurrection broke out
in Edinburgh, and its ramifications rapidly spread over,
and manifested themselves throughout, the country, — the

1.9
insurgents in the capital, seizing the royal palace, dis
lodging the few soldiers who guarded it, and demolishing
such portions of its precincts as were obnoxious to the
popular feelings as appurtenances of Popery. On Christ
mas day, some thousand Presbyterians, who had assembled
in array in the west of Scotland, dispersed themselves, in
all directions, to disarm and overawe those whom they
suspected or knew, to be friendly to the rule of King
James ; and, as a decisive blow, two hundred Episcopal
clergymen were at once ejected by the insurgents from
their churches and their homes ; some of them dragged
from their pulpits, — their vestments torn, — their houses
sacked, and their wives and children turned out of doois
in the depth of winter, with all the varieties of studied
indignity, which the caprice, the revenge, or the fanaticism
of a mob could suggest.
While Scotland was thus in a state of entire dis
organization and terror, without the semblance even of
government or of law to afford protection to the people,
divided, as they were, into opposing and furious factions, a
meeting was held in London, on the lOth of January 1689,
of nobility and gentry, who had gone thither, in conse
quence of the recent events which had taken place in
that kingdom. At that meeting, in which the Duke of
Hamilton presided, an address to the Prince of Orange
was adopted and subscribed by thirty noblemen and eighty
gentlemen, forming a large portion of the Scotch parlia
ment, requesting that a Convention of Estates should be
called on the 14 th of March, — thus leaving time for con
solidating the Revolution in England by the Convention
in that kingdom. This proposition was acceded to by
the Prince, having, indeed, been adopted on his own
suggestion, and the necessary proclamation was issued,
calling the convention accordingly. In order to insure
a preponderance in the more popular branch of the
convention, — the representatives of the boroughs, —
the address suggested that the election should be
made by a poll of freemen, — who were generally
among the more zealous Presbyterians ; and, with
these preliminary arrangements, it was thought that
a majority of the convention, would be found decid
edly to favour the accession of the new dynasty in
Scotland. Catholics being excluded from the exercise of
the franchiscj the result fully justified these anticipations.

20
The convention was opened, accordingly, at the time
appointed ; and we shall now present the particulars of
its proceedings, in so far as these are necessary for our
purpose, from the authentic record. To that record,
therefore, we now refer, as infinitely better for affording a
satisfactory view of its proceedings, than any narrative or
delineation of its character that could be given, whether
by contemporaries or historians of later times.

21

1689.
LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS.

ACTS and ORDERS of the MEETING of the ESTATES of the
KINGDOM of SCOTLAND, holden and begun at Edinburgh,
the 14th day of March 1689, called by Circular Letters from his
Highness the PRINCE of ORANGE, under his Hand and Seal.
His Grace William Duke of Hamilton elected President by the
Estates, to the said Meeting. I.
A Letter from Williah King of England, (directed thus : For
the Estates of the Kingdom of Scotland, at their meeting at Edin
burgh, presented by the Earl of Leven, was read, March 16, 1689,)
whereof the Tenor follows : — ¦
My Lords and Gentlemen,
We are very sensible of the kindness and concern that many of your
nation have evidenced towards us, and our undertaking for the preser
vation of religion and liberty, which were in such eminent danger ;
neither can we in the least doubt of your confidence in ,us, after
having seen how far so many of your nobility and gentry, have owned
our declaration, countenancing and concurring with us in our endea
vours, and desiring that we should take upon us the administration of
aifairs, civil and military ; and to call a meeting of the estates, for
securing the Protestant religion, the ancient laws and liberties of
that kingdom, which accordingly we have done.
Now it lies on you, to enter upon such consultations as are most
probable to settle you ensure and lasting foundations, which, we hope,
ye will set about with all convenient speed, with regard to the publick
good, and to the general interests and inclinations of the people, that
after so much trouble, and great suffering, they may live happily and in
peace ; and that you may lay aside all animosities and factions, that
may impede so good a work.
we are glad to find, that so many of the nobility and gentry, when
here at London, were so much inclined to an union of both kindoms,
and that they did look upon it as one of the best means for procuring the
happiness of these nations, andsetling of a lasting peace amongst them,
which would be advantagious to both, they living in the same island,
having the same language, and the same common interest of religion
and liberty, especially at this juncture, when the enemies of both are
so restless, endeavouring to make, and increase jealousies and divi
sions ; which they will be ready to improve to their own advantage,
and the ruine of Britain ; we being of the same opinion, as to the
usefulness of this union, and having nothing so much before our eyes,
as the glory of God, the establishment of the reformed religion, and
the peace and happiness of these nations, are resolved to use our
utmost endeavours in advancing every thing which may conduce to
the effectuating the same : So we bid you heartily farewel. From our
court at Hampton, the seventh day of March, 1688-9.
WILLIAM R.

22
II.
Act declaring the Meeting of the Estates to be a free and lawful
Meeting, March 16, 1689.
Forasmuch, as there is a letter from King James the Seventh, pre
sented to the meeting of the estates, they before opening thereof,
declare and enact, that notwithstanding of any thing that may be
contained in that letter for dissolving them, or impeding their proce
dure ; yet that they are a free and lawful meeting of the estates, and
will continue undissolved, until they settle and secure the Protestant
religion, the government, laws, and liberties of the kingdom.
The Clergy and Nobility subscribed thus,
Jo. Glasgow, John Dunkelden, Will. Moravien, Jo. Rosseh, Robert
Dumblanen, Arch. Sodoren, And, Orcaden, Hamilton, Douglas,
Athole, Crawfurd, Lothian, Mortoun, Linlithgow, Eglintoun, Forfar,
Lovit, Bellanden, Lindores, Newark, Blantyre, Argyle, Southerland,
Glencairn, Airly, Leven, Anuandale Tweeddale, Panmure, Tarras,
Dundonald, Belcarras, Stormbnt, Kenmure, Arbuthnot, Tarbat,
Dundee, Carraichael, Cardross, Belhaven, Rutherford, Bargany, Ross,
Torphichen, Forrester, Rollo, Elphiingstone, Duffus, Ruthven.
The Barons subscribed thus,
J. Maitland, Robert Sinclair, Ad. Cockburn, Andrew Agnew, Da.
Arnot, Wm. Elliot, Pat. Scot, Thomas Drummond, Pat. Ogilvie, Will.
Anstruther, Will. Hcdongal, Patrick Murray, D. Carmichael, W.
Baillie of Lamington, David Boyl, H. Mcguffock, James Foulis, Ja.
Montgomery, Blair of that Ilk, Da. Erskine Dun, Jo. Maxwel, Ar.
Cockburn, Jo. Dempster, Ja. Houstoun, William Colquhoun, Charles
Erskine, Pat. Home of Polwarth, S. D. Ca. Auchinbreck, Ar. Murray,
Geo. Pringle, Ad. Gordon, Jo. Dalziel, Ja. Johnstoun, Tho. Dunbar,
T. Burnet, Da. Bruce, C. Hamilton, Jo. Haldan, William Scot,
Lodovick Grant, Ja. Rainsay, Alexander Arbuthnot, William Cuu-
ninghame, Al. Duff, D. Forbes, Jo. Gordon, Ja. Moire, A. Brodie,
John Campbel Carrick, The Burgesses subscribed thus,
John Hall, Geo. Stirline, Robert Smith, Ja. Fletcher, J. Anderson,
J. Murray, Ja. Ogilvie, Jo. Dalrymple, Hugh Kennedy, James Smith,
John Moor, Ar. Ged, Alexander Spitle, Alexander Cunninghame,
Ja. Mudie, Jo. Ewart, Robert Melvil, J. Cuthbert, Ja. Kennan, Ja.
Smollett, Will. Coltrain, Charles Halket, Geo. Smith, T. Hamilton,
Jo. Boswal, Pat. Steven, Ja. Stuart, Jo. Moir, Hugh Wallace, Pat.
Murdoch, J. Carnegie,~Ja. Smith, Jo. Scot, Robert Cleland, Will.
Ross, G. Gordon, Jo. Ross, Hugh Brown, John Anderson, Wa.
Stuart, Will. Hamilton, Tho. Tulloch, Da. Spence, Will. Heggin, Jo.
Boswel, A. Gordon, Will. Erskin, Will. Cochran, Patrick Wallace,
Alexander Gordon.

IIL
FnocLAMATioN for bringing in the bygone Arrears of the Publick
Revenue, March 18, 1689.
The meeting of the estates of this kingdom, for defraying the charge
and expense of securing the Protestant religion, their own safety, and
the publick peace of the kingdom in this juncture ; do ordain all
persons lyable in payment of the supply, to make payment of what
was due at jMartinmass last to the collectors in the respective shires

23
and burghs ; and these lyable in payment of the in-land excise in
the said shires and burghs, and imposition granted to the town of
Edinburgh preceediug Candlemass last, to make payment of the same
to the tacksmen in the several shires ; whicli collectoi's and tacksmen
are hereby required upon receipt thereof, to pay in the same to ;james
Oswald of Fiugletoun ; and likewise ordains all arrears of the cus
toms, forraign excise, and the crown-rents, to be payed to Sir Patrick
Murray, present receiver thereof, and the foresaid payments to be
made within ten days after the publication hereof at the respective
Mercat-crosses ; and grants warrand to use all execution competent
by the law of the kingdom against persons lyable in payment of the
said publick dues ; and in the meantime discharges the payment of
any precepts. And the meeting of the estates do nominat and appoint
George Hamilton of Biunie to be general surveyor, and to see that
there be no embazlements of the customs. And they command and
require heraulds or macers to pass to the Mercat-cross of Edinburgh,
and sherilfs in that tpart, to pass to the Mercat-crosses of the head
burghs of the respective shires, and to make publication of these
presents, and ordains the same to be printed, that none may pretend
ignorance thereof.

IV.
Act for putting the Kingdom in a Posture of Defence.
March 19, 1689.
The meeting of the estates of this kingdom, have thought fit to
certifie and advertise the leidges, that after an act and vote of the
estates subscribed by the members, declaring and enacting, that the
estates would continue their meeting undissolved, until they should
settle and secure the Protestant religion, the government, laws, and
liberties of the kingdom : Nevertheless, several persons who did
concur with them in that vote, and subscribed the same, have deserted
the meeting of the estates, and some of them have presumed openly
to correspond with the Duke of Gordon, since the proclamation of
intercommuning against him, and to retire from this place in form of
weir. Therefore the estates do require all such of their members as
have deserted the meeting, without acquainting the estates or their
president, to return with all conveniency to the meeting of estates :
And likewise the estates do advertise and require the whole Protest
ants of the kingdom, betwixt sixty and sixteen, to be in readiness,
witli their best horses and arms, upon advertisement from the meeting
of estates, and lilcewise to have their militia in readiness to receive
such orders as shall be direct to them from the said estates, for securing
the Protestant religion, the laws and liberties of the kingdom. And
ordains these presents to be printed and published at the Mercat-
crosses of the several head-burghs of the kingdom, that none may
pretend ignorance thereof.

V.
Ak Order anent an Oath to be taken by Persons in Military Employ
ments, March 19, 1689.
The meeting of the estates do ordain the oath under-written, to be
taken by all persons in military employments.
Whereas, I, , have ccepted of a commisson

24
from the estates of Scotland, or am continued in command by them,
I, , faithfully promit, in presence of the
Almighty God, and swear, that I shall demea,n mj;self faithfully to the
Estates, now presently met, so long as I continue in that station.

VI.
Act approving the Address made to his Highness the Prince of
Orange. March 19, 1689.
The estates of the kingdom of Scotland conveened at Edinburgh, on
the 14th of March 1689 years, taking to their consideration the good
services done by the noblemen and gentlemen of this nation, who
lately at London did make and sign a timeous and dutiful address,
to his Highness the Prince of Orange, containing a just and thankful
acknowledgement of the great benefits done to the nation, in deliver
ing them from the imminent encroachments on our laws, and funda
mental constitutions, and from the near dangers, which threatened
an overturning of the Protestant religion, and the humble prefer of
their lives and fortunes to his highness, for sustaining him in prose
cution of so good a cause : As also, desiring his highness to accept
on him the administration of the government of this kingdom, until
tne meeting of the estates thereof were called to consult on a further
settlement. They do ratify, approve, and homologat the said address,
in all its tenor and contents ; and declares the same to have been
an act of duty, tending to the good of the Protestant religion in
general, and of this nation in particular, in all its concerns : And
ordains this ratification and approbation to be furthwith printed, and
published, and to be a full security in most ample form to every
person who did so address, as if their names were herein exprest.

IX.
A Letter from the Meeting of the Estates of the Kingdom of
Scotland, to the King of England, in Answer to his Majesty's Letter
directed to them ; whereof the Tenor follows, March 23, 1689.
May it please your Majesty,
As religion, liberty, and law are the dearest concerns of mankind^
so the deep sense of the extream hazard these were exposed to, must
produce suitable returns from the kingdom of Scotland to your
Majesty, whom in all sincerity and gratitude we acknowledge to be
under God, our great and seasonable deliverer ; and we heartily con-
gratulat, that as God has honoured your Majesty to be an eminent
instrument for the preservation of his truth; so he hath rewarded
your undertakings with success, in the considerable progress which
you have made in delivering us, and in preserving to us the Protestant
religion. We return our most dutiful thanks to your Majesty for your accept
ing the administration of publick affairs, and conveening the estates
of this kingdom ; and we shall with all convenient diligence, take
your gracious letter into our consideration, hoping shortly, by the
blessing of God, to fall upon such resolutions, as may be acceptable
to your Majesty, secure the Protestant religion, and establish-the go
vernment, laws, and liberties of this kingdom, upon solid founda-
tions, most agreeable to the general good and inclination of the people^

25
As lo tho proposal of the Union, we doubt not your Majesty
will so dispose that matter, that their may be an equal readiness
in the kingdom of England to accomplish it, as one of the best
means for securing the happiness of these nations and settling a
lasting peace.
We_ have hitherto, and still shall, endeavour to avoid animosities
or prejudice which might disturb our councils, that as we design the
publick good, so it may be done with the general concurrance and
approbation of the nation. In the mean time, we desire the con
tinuance of your Majesty's care and protection towards us in all our
concerns, wherof the kind expressions in your gracious letter, have
given us full assurance. Signed in name of us the estates of the
kingdom of Scotland, by our President.
May it please your Majesty,
Your Majesty's most humble,
most faithful, and obedient servant,
HAMILTON P.

XIII.
The Declaration of the Estates of the Kingdom of Scotland, contain
ing the Claim of Right, and the Offer of the Crown to their
Majesties King William and Queen Mary. April 11, 1689.
Whereas, King James the Seventh, being a profest Papist, did
assume the regal power, and acted as king, without ever taking the
oath required by law, whereby the King at his access to the govern
ment, is obliged to swear, to maintain the Protestant religion, and to
rule the people according to the laudable laws ; and did by the advice
of wicked and evil counsellors, invade the fundamental constitution
of this kingdom, and altered it from a legal limited monarchy, to an
arbitrary despotic power; and in a publick proclamation, asserted
absolute power, to cass, annul and disable all the laws, particularly
arraigning the laws, establishing the Protestant religion, and did
exerce that power, to the subversion of the Protestant religion,
and to the violation of the laws and liberties of the kingdom.
By erecting publick schools and societies of the Jesuits ; and not
only allowing mass to be publickly said, but also inverting Protestant
chappels and churches to publick mass-houses, contrary to the express
laws against saying or hearing of mass.
By allowing papist-books to be printed and dispersed by a gift to
a Popish printer ; designing him the printer to his Majesty's houshold,
colledge and chappel, contrary to the laws.
By taking the children of Protestant noblemen and gentlemen, send
ing and keeping them abroad, to be bred Papists, making great fonds
and donations to Popish schools and colledges abroad, bestowing pen
sions upon priests, and perverting Protestants from their religion, by
offers of places, preferments and pensions.
By disarming Protestants, while at the same time he imployed
Papists, in the places of greatest trusts, civil and military, such as
chancellor, secretaries, privy-counseUors, and lords of session,
thrusting out Protestants to make room for Papists, and entrusting
the forts and magazines of the kingdom in their hands.
By imposing oaths contrary to law.
By giving gifts and grants for exacting money, without consent of
parliament, or convention of estates.

26
By levying or keeping on foot a standing army in titne of peace,
without consent of parliament, which army did exact locality, free, and
dry quarters.
By imploying the officers of the army, as judges through the king
dom, and imposing them where there were heretable offices and
jurisdictions, by whom many of the hedges were put to death sum
marily, without legal tryal, jury or record.
By imposing exorbitant fines to the value of the parties estates,
exacting extravagant bale; and disposing fines andforefualtures before
any process or conviction.
By imprisoning persons without expressing the reason, and delaying
to put them to tryal.
By causing pursue and forefault several persons upon stretches
of old and obsolete laws, upon frivolous and weak pretences, upon
lame and defective probation ; as particularly the late Earl of Argyle
to the scandal and reproach of the justice of the nation.
By subverting the right of the royal burghs, the third estate of
parliament, imposing upon them not only magistrats, but also the
whole town council, and clerks, contrair to their liberties, and
express charters, without the pretence either of sentence, surrender
or consent ; so that the commissioners to parliaments being chosen by
the magistrats and council, the king might in effect as well nominat
that entire estate of parliament ; and many of the said magistrats put
in by him were avowed Papists, and the burghs were forced to pay
money for the letters, imposing these illegal magistrats and councils
upon them.
By sending letters to the chief court of justice, not only ordering
the judges to stop and desist siae die to determine causes ; but also
ordering and commanding them how to proceed, in cases depending
before them, contrary to the express laws, and by changing the nature
of the judges gifts ad vitam aul culam, and giving them commissions
ad bene placitum, to dispose them to complyance with arbitrary courses,
and tuning them out of their offices, when they did not comply.
By granting personal protections for civil debts, contrary to law. _
All which are utterly and directly contrary to the known law,
statutes, and freedoms of this realm.
Therefore the estates of the kingdom of Scotland, find and declare,
that King James the Seventh, being a profest Papist, did assume
the regal power, and acted as king, without ever taking the
oath required by law, and hath by the advice of evil and wicked
counsellers, invaded the fundamental constitution of the kingdom,
and altered it from a legal limited monarchy, to an arbitrary
despotick power, and hath exercised the same, to the subversion
of the Protestant religion, and violation of the laws and liberties
of the kingdom, inverting all the ends of government, whereby
he hath forefaulted the right to the crown, and the throne is become
vacant. And, whereas, his Royal Highness, William, then Prince of
Orange, now King of England, whom it hath pleased the Almighty
God, to make the glorious instrument of delivering these kingdoms
from Popery and arbitrary power, did, by the advice of several
lords and gentlemen of this nation, at London, for the time, call
the estates of the kingdom, to meet the fourteenth of March
last, in order to such an establishment, as that their religion, laws,
and liberties, might not be again in danger of being subverted.
And the said estates being now assembled, in a fall and free re
presentative of this nation, taking to their most serious consideration,
the best means for attaining the ends aforesaid; do, in the first

27
place, as their ancestors in the like cases have usually done, for
the vindicating and asserting their ancient rights and liberties
declare, — »
That by the law of this kingdom, no Papist can be king or queen
of this realm, nor bear any office whatsoever therein ; nor can any
Protestant successor exercise the regal power, until he or she swear
the coronation oath.
That all proclamations asserting an absolute power, to cass, annull,
and disable laws, the erecting schools and colledges for Jesuits, tlie
inverting Protestant chapels and churches to publick mass-houses, and
the allowing mass to be said, are contrary to law.
That the allowing Popish books to be printed and dispersed, is
contrary to law.
That the taking the children of noblemen, gentlemen and others,
sending and keeping them abroad to be bred Papists, the making of
fonds and donations to Popish schools and colledges, the bestowing
pensions on priests, and the perverting Protestants from their
religion, by offers of places, preferments and pensions, are contrary
to law.
That the disarminglof Protestants, and imploying Papists in the places
of greatest trust, both civil and military, the thrusting out Protestants,
to make room for Papists, and the intrusting Papists with the forts
and magazines of the kingdom, are contrary to law.
That the imposing oaths without authority of parliament, is con
trary to law.
That the giving gifts or grants, for raising of money, without the
consent of parliament, or convention of estates, is contrary to law.
That the imploying the officers of the army as judges through the
kingdom or imposing them where there were heretable officers and
jurisdictions, and the putting the leidges to death summarily without
legal tryal, jury, or record, are contrary to law.
That the imposing of extraordinary fines, the exacting of exorbitant
bail, and the disposing of fines and forefaulters before sentence, are
contrary to law.
That the imprisoning persons, without expressing the reason thereof,
and delaying to put them to tryal, is contrary to law.
That the causing pursue and forfeit persons, upon stretches of old
and obsolete laws, upon frivolous and weak pretences, upon lame and
defective probation, as particularly ihe late Earl of Argyle, are con
trary to law.
That the nominating and imposing the magistrats, councils, and
clerks, upon burghs, contrary to their liberties and express charters, is
contrary to law.
That the sending letters to the courts of justice, ordaining the judges
to stop or desist from determining causes, or ordaining them how to
proceeding in causes depending before them, and the changing the
nature of the judges gifts ad vitam aut culpam, into commissions
durante beneplacito, are contrary to law.
That the granting personal protections for civil debts, is contrary to
That the forcing the leidges to depone against themselves in
capital crimes, however the punishment be restricted, is contrary to
That the using torture without evidence, or in ordinary crimes, is
contrary to law. , ., . .
That the sending of an army m an hostile manner, upon any part of
the kingdom, in a peaceable time, and exacting of locality, and any
manner of free quarters, is contrary to law.

28
That the charging of the leidges with law-borrows at the king's
instance, and the imposing of bonds without the_ authority of Par
liament, and the suspending advocats from their imployment, for
not compearing when such bonds were offered, were contrary tolaw.
That the putting of gaiTisons in privat men's houses in time of
peace, without their consent, or the authority of parliament, is con
trary to law.
That the opinions of the lords of session in the two cases following,
were contrary to law, viz., 1. That the concealing the demand of
a supply for a forefaulted person, although not given, is treason. 2.
That persons refusing to discover what are their privat thoughts and
judgments, in relation to points of treason, or other mens actions, are
guilty of treason.
That the fyning husbands for their wives withdrawing from tho
church, was contrary to law.
That Prelacy and the superiority of any office in the church,
above Presbyters, is, and hath been a great and insupportable griev
ance and trouble to this nation, and contrair to the inclinations
of the generality of the people, ever since the Reformation, (they
have reformed from Popery by Presbyters,) and, therefore, ought to be
abolished. That it is the right and privilege of the subjects, to protest for
remeid of law to the king and parliament, against sentences pro
nounced by the lords of session, providing the same do not stop
execution of the sentences.
That it is the right of the subjects to petition the king, and that
all imprisonments and prosecutions for such petitioning, are contrary
to law.
That for redress of all grievances, and for the amending, strengthen
ing, and preserving of the laws, parliaments ought to be frequently
called, and allowed to sit, and the freedom of speech and debate
secured to the members.
And they do claim, and demand, insist upon all and sundry the
premisses as their undoubted rights and liberties, and that no declara
tions, doings, or proceedings, to the prejudice of the people, in any
of the said premisses, ought in any ways to be drawn hereafter, in
consequence of example, but that all forefaultnres, fines, losses of
offices, imprisonments, banishments, pursuits, persecutions, tortures,
and rigorous executions be considered, and the parties lesed be re
dressed. To which demand of their rights, and redressing of their grievances,
they are particularly encouraged by his Majesty the King of England,
his declaration for the kingdom of Scotland, of the day of Octo
ber last, as being the only means for obtaining a full redress and
remedy therein.
Having, therefore, an entire confidence, that his said Majesty the
King of England will perfect the deliverance so far advanced by him,
and will still preserve them from the violation of their rights, which
they have here asserted, and from all other attempts upon their
religion, laws, and liberties.
The said estates of the kingdom of Scotland do resolve that
William and Mary, King and .Queen of England, France, and
Ireland, be, and be declared King and Queen of Scotland, to hold the
crown and royal dignity of the said kingdom of Scotland, to them
the said King and Queen, during their lives, and the longest liver of
them, and that the sole and full exercise of the royal power be only
in, and exercised by him the said King, in the names of the said
King and Queen during their joint lives; and after their decease.

21)
the said crown and royal dignity of the said kingdom, to Iip to
the hens of the bsdy of the said Queen ; which failzing, to tlie
i'rmcess Anno of Denmark, and tho heirs of her body • which
a so failing, to the heirs of thj body of tho said William Kiiiy of
England. ^
And they do pray the said King and Queen of England to accept
tho same accordingly.
And that the oath, hereafter mentioned, be taken by all Pro
testants, of whom the oath of allegiance, and any other oatlis and
declarations miglit be required by law, instead of them, and that
the said oath of alledgeance, and other oaths and declarations may bo
abrogated. I. A. B. do sincerely promise and swear, that I will be faithful,
and bear true allegeance to Their Majesties King Williaji and
Queen Mary. So help me God.

XIV.
A PaocLAMATioN declaring the King and Queen of England, to bo
King and Queen of Scotland. April 11, 1689.
"Whereas the estates of the kingdom of Scotland, by their act of
the date of these presents, have resolved, that William and Mary,
King and Queen of England, France, and Ireland, be, and be declared
King and Queen of Scotland, to hold the crown and royal dignity
of the kingdom of Scotland, to them, and that the sole and fnll
exercise of the regal power, be only in, and exercised by the said
King, in the names of the said King and Queen, during their joynt
lives. As also, the estates having resolved, and enacted an instru
ment of government, or claim of right, to be presented with the
offer of the crown, to the said King and Queen. They do statute
and ordain. That William and Mary, King and Queen of England,
France, and Ireland, be accordingly furthwith proclaimed King and
Queen of Scotland, at the Mercat-cross of Edinburgh, by the lyon
king-at-arms or his deputs, his brethren heralds, macers, and
ursevants, and at the head burghs of all the shires, stewartries,
ailli.iries, and regalities within the kingdom, by mesaengers-at-arms.

I

XV.
Act declaring that the Estates are to continue in the Government,
until the King and Queen of England accept the Crown. April
11,1689.
Forasmuch as the estates of this kingdom by theii- former act,
declared that they would continue undissolved, until the govern
ment, laws, and liberties of the kingdom should be settled and
secured : And they having now proceeded to, resolve. That William
and Mary, King and Queen of England, be, and be declared King
and Queen of Scotland. And considering that the nation cannot
be without government, until the said King and Queen of England
accept the offer of the crown, according to the instrument of govern
ment, and take the oath required before they enter to the exercise
of the regal power : Therefore, the said estates do hereby declara
and enact. That they will continue in the government as foimerly,
c

30
until their Majesties acceptance of the crown, and their taking of the
said oath be made known to them.

XVI.
A PnocxAMATioJT agaiust the Owning of the late King James, and
appointing Publick Prayers for William and Mary, King and Queen
of Scotland. April 13, 1689.
The estates of the kingdom of Scotland having proclamed and
declared William and Mary, King and Queen of England, France,
and Ireland, to be King and Queen of Scotland : They have thought
fit, by publick proclamation, to certifie the Hedges, that none presume
to owne or acknowledge the late King James the Seventh, for their
king, nor obey, accept, or assist any commissions or orders that
may be emitted by him, or any way to correspond with him ; and
that none presume upon their highest peril, by word, writing, in
sermons, or any other manner of way, to impugn, or disown the
royal authority of William and Mary, King and Queen of Scotland :
But that all the leidges render their dutiful obedience to their
Majesties : And that none presume to misconstrue the proceeding of
the estates, or to create jealousies, or misapprehensions of the actings
of the government ; but that all the ministers of the gospel within the
kingdom, publickly pray for King William and Queen Mary as King
and Queen of this realm : And the estates do require the ministers
within the city of Edinburgh, under the pain of being deprived, and
losing their benefices to read this preclamation publickly from their
pulpits, upon Sunday next, being the 14th instant, at the end of there
forenoon sermon; and all the ministers on this side of the river of
Tay, to read the same upon Sunday thereafter, the_21st instant ; and
these benorth Tay upon the 28th instant, under the pain fore
said : Discharging hereby the proclamation of the council, dated tho
16th of September 1686, to be read hereafter in churches. And the
estates do prohibite and discharge, any injury to be offered by any
person whatsomever, to any ministers of the gospel, either in churches
or meeting-houses, who are presently in the possession and exercise
of their ministry therein, they behaving themselves as becomes,
under the present government : And ordains this proclamation to
be published at the Mercat-cross of Edinburgh, with all ordinary
solemnities, that none may pretend ignorance. And that the same
be printed.

XVII.

Additional Waiieakt for publishing the Proclamation of William
and Mary, the King and Queen of Scotland. April 13, 1689.
The eatates of the kingdom of Scotland do order and require the
proclamation declaring William and Mary, King and Queen of
Scotland, to be published at the Mercat-crosses of the royal burrows
within this kingdom, by messengers-at-arms, with the concurrance
of the respective magistrats of these burghs, wherein the said pro
clamation is appointed to be made, and to be performed by them,
with all solemnities and formalities usual in the like cases. And
ordains thir presents to be printed.

31
XVIII.
The Articles of Ghievances represented by the Estates of the
Kingdom of Scotland, to the King's most Excellent Majesty, to
be redressed in Parliament, whereof the Tenor follows. April 13,
1689.
The estates of the kingdom of Scotland, do represent, that the
committee of parliament, called the articles, is a great grievance
to the nation, and that there ought to be no committees of parliament,
but such as are freely chosen by the estates, to prepare motions and
overtures that are first made in the house.
That the first act of parliament 1669, is inconsistent with the
establishment of the church-government, now desired, and ought to be
abrogated. That the forefaultures in favours of vassals, creditors, and heirs of
entail, are a great grievance.
That the obliging the leidges to depone upon crimes against
delinquents, other ways than what they are adduced in special
processes, as witnesses, is a great grievance.
That assizes of error are a grievance ; and that juries be considered
by parliament.
That the eighteenth act of pairliament 1681, declaring a cumulative
jurisdiction, is a grie\'ance.
That the commissariot-courts, as they are now constitnte, are a
grievance. That the twenty-seventh act of parliament 1663, giving to the
King power to impose custom at pleasure, upon foreign import and
trade, is a grievance, and prejudicial to the trade of the nation.
That the not taking an effectual course to repress the depredations
and robberies by the Highland-clans, is a grievance.
That tlie banishment by the council of the greatest part of the
advocats from Edinburgh, without a proces, was a grievance.
That most of the laws enacted in the parliament anno 1685, are
impious and intolerable grievances.
That the marriage of a king or queen of this realm to a Pa;iist,
is dangerous to the Protestant religion, and ought to be provided
against. That the levying, or keeping on foot, a standing army in time of
peace, without consent of parliament, is a grievance.
That all grievances relating to the manner and measure of tho
leidges, their representation in parliament be considered and redressed
in the first parliameut.
That the grievances of the burrows be considered and redressed in
the parliament.

XXI. •
The Oath to be Administered to the King and Queen at their
Acceptance of the Crown. April 18, 1689.
We faithfully promise and swear by this our solemn oath, in pre
sence of the Eternal God that during the whole course of our life, we
will serve the same eternal God, to the uttermost of our power, accord
ing as he has required in his most Holy Word, revealed and contained in
the Old and New Testaments ; and, according to the same Word, shall
maintain the true religion of Christ Jesus, the preaching of his Holy
Word, and the due and right ministration of the sacraments, now re
ceived and preached within the realm of Scotland; and sliall abolish

32
and gainstand all false religion contrary to the same, and shall rule the
people committed to our charge according to the will and command of
God revealed in his aforesaid Word, and according to the loveable laws
and constitutions received in this realm, no noways repugnant to the
said Word of the Eternal God ; and shall procure, to the uttermost of
OUT power, to the Kirk of God, and whole Christian people, true and
perfect peace in all time coming ; that we shall preserve and keep
inviolated the rights and rents, wiih all just privileges of the crown
of Scotland ; neither shall we transfer nor alienate the same ; that we
shall forbid and repress, in all estates and degrees, reif, oppression,
and all kind of wrong ; and we shall command and procure that
justice and equity in all judgments be kept to all persons without
exception, as the Lord and Father of all mercies shall be merciful to
us : And we shall be careful to root out all heretics and enemies to
the true worship of God, that shall be convict, by the true Kirk of
God, of the foresaids crimes, out of our lands and empyre of Scot
land : And we faithfully affirm the things above written by our
solemn oath.

XXVII.
A Letter direct from the Estates to the King^s Majesty, with the
Offer of the Crown, whereof the Tenor follows. April 24, 1689.
May it please your Majesty,
The settling of the monarchy and ancient government of this king
dom admitting no delay, we did, upon the 11th instant, proclaim your
Majesty and your royal consort. King and Queen of Scotland, with so
much unanimity, that, of the whole house, there was not one contrary
vote. We have nominat the Earl of Argyle, Sir James Montgomery
of Skelmoilie, and Sir John Dalrymple, in our name, to attend your
Majesty with the cheerful offer ol the crown, and hnmMy to present
the petition or claim of right of the subjects of this kingdom, as also
to represent some things found grievous to this nation, which we
humbly intreat your Majesty to reraeid, by wholesome laws, in your
first parliament. And. in testimony of your Majesty and the Queens
acceptance, we beseech your Majesties, in presence of those sent by
us, to swear and sign the oath herewith presented, which our law hath
appointed to be taken by our kings and queens, at the entry to their
government, till such time as your great affairs allow this kingdom
the happiness of your presence, in order to the coronation of your
Majesties. We are most sensible of your Majesties kindness and fatherly care
to both our kingdoms in proraoving their union, which, we hope, hath
been reserved to be accomplished by you ; that as both kingdoms are
united in one head and sovcraign, so tlley may become one body
politick, one nation, to be represented in one pai-liament. And to
testifie our readiness to comply with your Majesty in that matter, we
have nominated commissioners to treat the terms of an entire and
perpetual union betwixt tho two kingdoms, with reservation to us of
our Church government, as it shall be established at the time of the
union. These commissioners do wait your Majesties approbation and
call, that they may meet and treat with the commissioners to be ap
pointed for England, at what time and place your Majesty shall
appoint. And if any difficulty shall arise in the treaty, wo do, upon
our part, refer the determination thereof to your Majesty. And we

33
do assure ourselves, from your Majesties prudence and goodness, of a
happy conclusion to that important affair, so as the same may be agreed
to and ratified by your Majesty in your first parliament. We do like
wise render your Majesty our most dutiful thanks for your gracious
letter brought to us by the Lord Ross, (a person well affected to your
service,) and for your princely care in sending down these troops,
which may, in the meantime, help to preserve us, and, when the
season ofiFers, may be imployed towards the recovery of Ireland from
that deplorable condition and extream danger to which the Protestants
there are exposed. The guarding our coast with a good fleet preserves
England as well as us from an invasion ; and as it is the interest of
England to contribute to secure us from the first impressions of the
common danger, so we shall not he wanting, on our part, to give our
assistance for reducing of Ireland, that all your Majesties kingdoms
may flourish in peace and truth under tho auspicious influence of your
happy reigns. Signed at the desire of the estates, and in our name by
our president. May it please your Majesty,
Your Majesties most humble, most
obedient, and faithful subject and servant,
HAMILTON, P.

XXVIII.

Act nominating Persons to attend thoir Majesties with the Offer
of the Crown. April 24, 1689.
The estates of this kingdom do nominat and appoint the Earl of
Argyle,'Sir James Montgomery of Skermorlie, and isir John Dalrymple,
thiee of their number, being one of every estate, to repair to London,
and to deliver to the King's Majesty their letter ; and to present to the
King and Queen the declaration of the estates, and take their oath,
and to present to his Majesty the grievances desired to be redressed,
with the address for turning this meeting into a parliament.

[XXIX
Address for turning the Meeting of Estates inio a Parliament.
AprU 24, 1689.
May it, please your Majesty,
It is the humble desire of your estates of Scotland that, for the
further settling and securing of the Protestant religion, the, govern
ment, laws, and liberties of this kingdom, and redressing the
grievances represented by th«m, your Majesty will be pleased to
turn this meeting into a parliament. Signed at the desire of the
estates, and in our name by our president.
May it please your Majesty,
Your Majesties most humble,
most obedient, and faithful
subject and servant,
HAMILTON,?

34
XXX.
Instructions by the Estates of Scotland, to the Earl of Argyle,
Sir James Montgomery, and Sir John Dalrymple, nominated and
appointed to attend the King and Queen, with the Offer of the
Crown. April 25, 1689.
You are to repair with all diligence to London, and so soon as
you come there, you are to deliver the letter from the estates to
the King's Majesty, and to present to their Majesties, the King aud
Queen, the declaration of the estates of this kindom, and to read, or
see the samo read in their presence ; and you are likewise to present
to the King, the grievances desired to be redressed ; with the ad
dress for turning this meeting into a parliament, and to read or see
the same read.
You are to offer the oath to the King and Queen, upon their
acceptance of the crown, and to see that the same be sworn and
signed by them.
After the King and Queen have taken the oath, you are to return
as soon as is possible.
You are to desire the King's Majesty to interpose with the estates
of Holland, that they may allow ten thousand stand of arms, less
or more, with ammunition conform, to be imported from Holland
into this kingdom, by James Dunlop, merchant in Roterdam,
James Bogle, merchant in Glasgow, and George Clerk, merchant
in Edinburgh, for use of his Majesties subjects in this kingdom ;
and to desire, that his Majesty would order these arms to be
free of custom, and others his Majesties dues, at their arrival here
in Scotland.
You are likewise to desire his Majesty to signifie his please
concerning the Earls of Perth and Balcarras.

XXXI.
A Proclamation for a Publick Thanksgiving. April 26, 1689.
Whereas it hath pleased Almighty God, by the endeavours of
William King of Scotland, England, France, and Ireland, to rescue
and deliver this nation from the great danger of Popery and
arbitrary power, to which it was exposed; the estates of this
kingdom, do ordain and appoint ; like as it is hereby enacted,
that all the subjects of this kingdom, do keejp and observe a day
of solemn and publick thanksgiving to Almighty God, for their
great deliverance aforesaid, and for imploring the blessing of God
to the said King William, the glorious instrument of their delivery :
And they hereby appoint for the shires on this side of the river
of Tay the ninth day of May next ; and for the shires be north
Tay, the sixteenth day of May, for all the leidges to meet in the
churches, or other places where they ordinarily attend divine service,
that they may hear sermon, and joyn together in the solemn thanks
giving, aforesaid : And ordains the ministers to intimat from their
pulpits the observation of the said thanksgiving, upon the Lords
day immediately preceding the said respective days. And appoints
this act to be printed, and publickly proclaimed at the Mercat-
cross of Edinburgh, and at the Mercat-crosses of the head burghs
of all shires, and of the royal burghs of this kingdom. And appoints
printed copies thereof to be dispatched to the sheriff-clerks of

35

the respective shires, that they may send the same to the magistrats
of the said burghs to be published, and to the several ministers in
the shires, that they may intimat tlie same, as said is.

XXXVI.

Act adjourning the Meeting of tho Estates. May 24, 1689.
The estates of this kingdom do adjourn this meeting of the
estates, unto the twenty first day of May next, at ten o'clock
in the forenoon; and ordains all the members thereof to attend
that day.

XXXVIII.

A Letter from his Majestie to the Estates, declaring he had
accepted the Crown and taken the Oath, whereof the Tenor follows.
May 24, 1689.
WILLIAM R.
My Lords and Geniiemen,
The commissioners sent by you have presented your letter to
us, with your petition or claim of right, Hie gi'ievances, and your
address for turning you into a parliament, which were all read in our
presence ; after which the Queen and We did take and sign the
oath tendered to us by your said commissioners, which (by God's
assistance) we will religiously observe.
At our first engaging in this undertaking, we had particular
consideration and regard for Scotland, and, therefore, we emitted
a declaration for that, as well as this kingdom, which we intend to
make good and effectual to you, and you shall always find us
ready to protect you, and assist you in making such laws as may
secure your religion, liberties, and properties, aud prevent or redress
whatever may be justly grievous to you.
We shall never believe that the true interest of the people and
the crown can be opposit; and shall always account that our greatest
prerogative, to enact such laws as may promote truth, peace, and
wealth in our kingdoms.
At your desire, we have resolved to turn you (who are the fuU
representatives of the nation,) into a parliament ; but, because the
instructions to our commissioner, and other things necessary, cannot
be expected before the twenty-one instant, to which you are ad-
journed ; therefore, we do authorize you to adjourn yourselves to
the fifth day of June next, against which time you are to require
all your members to be present, that then yon may proceed with
unity and alacrity, to dispatch what affairs do most conduce to the
right settlement of that nation. And as we do assure you on our
part, that we will not put the advantages the crown may have, in
the ballance with the true interests of the kingdom : So we do
expect on yours, that (all animosities and privat interests being
laid aside,) you will cheerfuly concur with us in settling the
.welfare of the kingdom, by such laws as may procure your own

36
liap'jjjneEs and establish ths publick good. And so we bid yon
heartily farewell.
G iven at our court at Hampton Court, the seventeenth day of
Hay, one thousand six hundred and eighty-nine, and of our
leign the first year. By His Majestys command, MELVILL.

XXXIX.

A Letter from the Estates to the King's Majesty, whereof the
Tenor follows. May 24, 1689.
May it please pour Majesty,
Your Majesties gracious letter of the seventeenth instant, gives
us occasion to acknowledge that as with unexpressible satisfaction we
look upon the condition we are now in, of being of the number of
your Majesties dutiful subjects, and so under the protection and
conduct of our deliverer, a prince of so much wisdom, justice, and
piety ; and in a great advance of being freed from the apprehensions
als well of hazards threatned from abroad, as of intestine commotions
at home ; so we think it our duty, to render your Majesty our
hearty thanks, that you have been graciously pleased to comply
with our desire, and to grant that this meeting should be turned into
a parliament. In obedience to your roj'al commands, we have issued forth a
proclamation, requiring all the members to be present the day
appointed by your Majesty ; but several of them, who were consi
derable persons, being necessarly engaged for securing the peace of
countrey, to repair to the places of their interests, and there to
continue, at the least until the levies be fully coraple'ated, there is
reason to believe, that the meeting of the fifth of June, cannot be
so frequent as is necessary for the great affairs they may have
under their consideration ; therefore, we do humbly desire, that
a longer day may be appointed for the meeting of the parliament.
The committee named by us, found it necessary, the time of our
adjournment, to write to your Majesty their letter of the eleventh
current, representing some things they judged conducible for your
Majesties service, and the good of the nation, which letter we have
considered and approven, and, therefore, humbly intreat your Majesty
may look on it, as the sence of the estates of this kingdom assembled
in this meeting.
And to the effect your Majesty may get a more particular account
of our proceedings, we desire you will be pleased to allow the Duke
of Hamilton our president (whose zeal and affection for your Majesties
service, and prudence and vigilancy for the Protestant religion, and
true interest of the nation, has eminently appeared on this occasion,)
and with him, the Lord Ross, Sir Patrick Hume of Polwarth, and
Mr William Hamilton, three of our number, to attend youre Majesty,
to give you more information of somethings expedient to be known'
by your Majesty before the meeting of your parliament, being loath to

37
trouble your Majesty further than the necessity of your service doth
oblige us ; we pray God to give your Majesty a long and happy reign
over us. Signed by warrand, and in name of the estates, by our
president. May it please your Majesty,
Your Majesties most humble,
most obedient and faithful
subject and servant,
HAMILTON, P.

XL.
Act adjourning the Meeting of the Estates. May 24, 1689.
Forasmuch as the King's Majesty, by a letter under his royal
hand to the meeting of the estates of this kingdom hath signified, at
their desire his Majesty has resolved to turn them into a parliament,
and authorized them to adjourn themselves to the fifth day of June
next, against which time they are appointed to require all their
members to be present, that then they may proceed to dispatch
what affairs do most conduce to the right settlement of the nation.
The estates of this kingdom, conform to his Majesties warrand, do
adjourn this meeting of the estates, unto the fifth day of June
next; and do ordain and require all the members to be present, and
attend Uiat day, to the effect mentioned in his Majesties letter afore
said ; and grants wanant to the heralds, macers, or pursevants, im
mediately to pass to the Mercat-cross of Edinburgh, and there with
sound of trumpet, to make publication of these presents, that none
m oy pretend ignorance.

LAWS and ACTS made in the First PARLIAMENT of our high
and most dread Soveraigns, WILLIAM and MARY, by the Grace
of God, King and Queen of Scotland, England, France,
and Ireland, Defenders of tlie Faith. Holden and begun at
Edinburgh, the fifth day of June 1689.
L
Act declaring the Meeting of Estates to be a Parliament.
June 5, 1689.
The King and Queens Majesties, with advice and consent of the
estates of this kingdom presently assembled, do enact and declare,
that the three estates now met together this fifth of June, 1689, con-

38
sisting of the noblemen, barons, and burrows, are a lawful and free
parliament, and are hereby declared, enacted, and adjudged to be
such, to all intents and purposes whatsoever, notwithstanding of the
want of any new writs, or proclamation for calling the same, or the
want of any other solemnity : And that all acts and statutes to be
past theron, shall be received, acknowledged, and obeyed, by the
subjects, as acts of parliament, and laws of this kingdom. And it is
hereby declared, that it shall be treason for any persons to dis
own, quarrel, or impugn the dignity and authority of this parlia
ment, upon any pretence whatsoever. And ordains these presents
to be published at the Mercat-cross of Edinburgh, that none pretend
ignorance.

IL
Act recognizing their Majesties Royal Authority. June 17, 1689.
The estates of parliament considering, that the King and Queen's
Majesties have accepted of the crown of this realm, tendered to them
by the meeting of the estates in their claim of rigbt, dated the
eleventh day of April last, and according there to have sworn the
oath appointed by law to be taken by all kings and queens of this
realm, before they exerce the regal power : Therefore, the estates of
parliament for themselves, and in name and behalf of tlie whole
subjects of this kingdom represented by them, do hereby assert,
recognize, and acknowledge their Majesties royal power and authority
over the said kingdom, and their undoubted right and title to the
imperial crown thereof: Likeas their Majesties, with advice and
consent of the saids estates of parliament, do declare, that it is high
treason in any of the subjects of this kingdom, by writing, speaking,
or any other manner of way to disown, quarrel, or impugn their
Majesties royal power and authority, or right and title to the crown.
And further, their Majesties with advice and consent foresaid, do
statute and ordain, that the oath of alledgeance hereunto subjoyned,
shall be sworn and subscribed by all the members and clerks of
parliament, and by all other persons presently in publick trust,
civil or military, or who shall be hereafter called to any publick trust
within the kingdom ; and do hereby retreat and rescind all preceding
laws and acts of parliament, in so far as they impose any oUier oaths
of alledgance, supremacy, declarations and tests, excepting the oath
defideli. Follows the Oath of Alledgance :
I. A. B. do sincerely promise and swear, that I will be faithful
and bear true alledgance to their Majesties King William and Queen
Mary. So help me God.

IIL
Act abolishing Prelacy. July 22, 1689.
Whereas the estates of this kingdom in their claim of right, of
the eleventh of April last, declared, that Prelacy, and the superiority

39
of any office in the church above Presbyters; is. and bath been a
great and insupportable grievance to this nation, and contrary to the
inclinations of the generality of the people, ever since the Reformation,
they having reformed from Popery by Presbyters, and therefore
ought to be abolished: Our Soveraign Lord and Lady, the King and
Queens Majesties, with advice and consent of the estates of parlia
ment, do hereby abolish Prelacy, and all superiority of any office in
the church of this kingdom above Presbyters ; and hereby rescinds,
casses, and annuls the first act of the second sess, of the first pari.
of King Charles the Second, and the second act of the third sess, of
the first pari, of King Charles the Second, aud the fourth act of the
third parliament of King Charles the Second; and all other acts,
statutes, and constitutions, in so far allannerly as they are inconsist
ent with this act, and do establish Prelacy, or the superiority of the
church-officers above Presbyters. And the King and Queens Ma
jesties do declare, that they, with advice and consent of the estates
of this parliament, will settle by law that church government in
this kingdom, which is most agreeable to the inclinations of the
people.

VI.
Act of Adjournment. August 2, 1689.
The King and Queens Majesties, declare this parliament current,
and adjourn the same to the eighth day of October next to come ;
ordaining all members, noblemen, commissioners for shires and
burrows, and all others having interest, to attend that day ; and that
there be no new election in shires or burghs, except upon the death of
any of the present commissioners.

HISTORICAL DOCUMENTS.

No.L
Proclamation, June 28, and July 5, 1687, or the Third Toleration.
James VII., by the grace of God, King of Scotland, England,
France, and Ireland, defender of the faith, &c., to all and sundry,
our good subjects, whom these presents may do or may concern, greet
ing : Whereas, by our royal proclamation, of the date the 12th day of
F ebruary 1686-7, we were graciously pleased for the causes, and on
Ihe terms therein mentioned, to grant our royal toleration to the pre-

40
fcssors of the Christian religion therein named, with, and under certain
restrictions and limitations ; all which are in the said proclamation
more at length expressed. We now taking into our royal considera
tion the sinistrous interpretations, which eitherhave, or may be made of
some restrictions therein mentioned, have thought fit, by this our royal
proclamation, further to declare, that we will protect our archbishops
and bishops, and all our subjects of the Protestant religion, in the
free exercise of their Protestant religion, as it is by law established,
and in the quiet and full enjoyment of all their possessions, without
any molestation or disturbance whatsoever. And we do likewise
by our sovereign authority, prerogative royal, and absolute power,
suspend, stop, and disable, all penal and sanguinary laws, made against
any for nonconformity to the religion established by law, in that our
ancient kingdom, or for excercising their respective worships, reli
gions, rites, and ceremonies ; all which laws are hereby stopt, sus
pended, and disabled to all intents and purposes. And to the end,
that by the liberty thereby granted, the peace and security of our
government in the practice thereof may not be endangered, we have
thought fit, and do hereby straitly charge and command all our loving
subjects, that, as we do give them leave to meet and serve God after
their own way and manner, be it in private houses, chapels, or places
purposely hired or built for that use, so that they take care that no
thing be preached or taught among them, which may any ways tend to
alienate the hearts of our people from us or our government, and that
their meetings be peaceable, openly, and publickly held, and all persons
freely admitted to them, and that they do signify and make known to
some one or more of the next privy counsellers, sheriffs, Stewarts,
bailies, justices of the peace, or magistrates of burghs royal, what place
or places they set apart for these uses, with the names of the preachers.
And, that all our subjects may enjoy such their religious assemblies
with greater assurance and protection, we have thought fit, and do
hereby command, that no disturbance of any kind be made or given
unto them, under pain of our royal displeasure, and to be further
proceeded against with the utmost severity; provided always, that
their meetings be in houses, or places provided for the purpose, and not
in the open fields, for which now after this our royal grace and favour
shown, (which surpasses the hopes, and equals the very wishes of the
most zealously concerned,) there is not the least shadow of excuse left ;
which meetings in fields we do hereby strictly prohibit and forbid,
against all which we do leave our laws and acts of parliament in full
force and vigour, notwithstanding the premisses ; and do further com
mand all our judges, magistrates, aud officers of our forces, to prosecute
such as shall be guilty of the said field conventicles or assemblies,
with the utmost rigour, as they would avoid our highest displeasure ;
for we are confident none will, after these liberties and freedoms we
have given to all, without reserve, to serve God in their own way,
presume to meet in these assemblies, except such as make a pretence
of religion to cover their treasonable designs against our royal person,
and the peace of our government. And lastly, to the end all our good
subjects may have notice of this our royal will and pleasure, we do
hereby commaild our lyon king-at-arms, and his brethren, heralds,
macei:s, pursevants, and messengers-at-arms, to make timeous pro
clamation thereof, at the Market-cross of Edinburgh : And, besides,
the printing and publishing of this our royal proclamation, it is our
express will and pleasure that the same be past under our great seal
of that our kingdom per sattum, without passing any other seal or
register. In order whereunto, these shall be to the directors of our
chanccllary and their deputes, for writing the same, and to our chan-

41
cellor, for causing our great seal aforesaid to be appended thereunto, a
sufficient warrant.
Given at our Court at Windsor, the twenty-eight day of June,
one thousand six hundred and eighty-seven, and of our reign
the third year. By his Majesty's command,
MELFORD.

No. II.
ThePresbyterian Ministers Address of Thanks, (to King James VII.)
July 21, 1687.
May it please your Majesty,
We, your Majesty's most loyal subjects, the ministers of the Pres
byterian perswasion, in your ancient kingdom of Scotland, from tho
deep sense we have of your Majesty's gracious and surprising favour,
in not only putting a stop to our long sad sufferings for nonconfor
mity, but granting us the liberty of the public and peaceable exercise
of our ministerial function, without any hazard ; as we bless the great
God who hath put this in your royal heart, do withal find ourselves
bound in dnty, to offer our most humble and hearty thanks to your
sacred Majesty, the favour bestowed being to us, and all the people of
our perswasion, valuable above all our earthly comforts; especially
since we have ground from your Majesty to believe, that our loyalty
is not be questioned upon the account of our being Presbyterians ;
who, as we have, amidst all former temptations, endeavoured, so arc
firmly resolved still to preserve an entire loyalty in our doctrine and
practice, (consonant to our known principles, which, according to the
Holy Scriptures, are contained in the Confession of Faith generally
owned by Presbyterians, in all your Majesty's dominions ;) and, by
the help of God, so to demean ourselves, as your Majesty may find
cause rather to enlarge, than to diminish our favours towards us ;
thoroughly perswading ourselves, from your Majesty's justice and
goodness, that if we shall at any time be otherwise represented, your
Majesty will not give credit to such information, until you take due
cognition thereof: And humbly beseeching, that those who promote
any disloyal principles and practices (as we do disown them), may be
look'd upon as none of ours, whatsoever name they may assume to
themselves. May it please your most excellent Majesty, graciously to accept this
our humble address, as proceeding from the plainness and sincerity of
loyal and thankful hearts, much engaged by this your royalfavour, to
continue our fervent prayers to the King of Kings for divine illumi
nation and conduct, with all other blessings, spiritual and temporal,
ever to attend your royal personand government, which is the greatest
duty can be rendered to your Majesty, by
Your Majesty's most humble, most faithful,
and most obedient subjects.
Subscribed in our own names, and in the names of the rest of the
brethren of our perswasion, at their desire.

No. III.
Address of the Inhabitants of Edinburgh and Canongage, 1687.
May it please your most sacred Majesty,
We cannot find suitable expressions to evidence our most humble

42
and grateful acknowledgments, for your Majesty's late gracious C.--
claration, by which we are happily delivered of many sad and grievous
burdens we have long groaned under, and (all restraints, to our great
joy, being taken off,) are allowed the free and peaceable publick exer
cise of our religion, a mercy which is dearer to us than our lives and
fortunes. Could we open our hearts, your Majesty would undoubtedly see what
deep sense and true zeal for your service, so surprising and signal a
favour hath imprinted on our spirits ; for which, we reckon ourselves
highly obliged (throwing ourselves at your Majesty's feet) to return
your most excellent Majesty, our most humble, dutiful, and hearty
thanks ; and we desire humbly to assure your Majesty, that as the
principles of the Protestant religion, which, according to our Con
fession of Faith we profess, obligeth us, all the days of our lives, to
that entire loyalty and duty to your Majesty's person and government,
that no diflerence of religion can dissolve ; so we hope, and, through
God's assistance, shall still endeavour to demean ourselves in our
practice, in such manner as shall evidence to the world, the truth
and sincerity of our loyalty and gratitude, and make it appear that
there is no inconsistency betwixt true loyalty and Presbyterian prin
ciples. Great Sir, we humbly offer our dutiful and faithful assurances, that
as we have not been hitherto wanting in that great duty, which our
consciences bind upon us to pray for your Majesty, so this late refresh
ing and unexpected favour, will much more engage us in great since
rity, to continue still to offer up oar desires to the God of heaven, by
whom kings reign, and princes decree justice, to bless your royal Ma
jesty's person and government, and, after an happy and comfortable
reign on earth, to crown you with an uncorruptible crown of glory in
heaven, which is most ardently prayed for, by
Most dread Sovereign,
Your Majesty's most humble, most loyal, most
dutiful, and most obedient subjects.
Subscribed in our own names, and by order of the citizens and inha
bitants of the Presbj'terian perswasion, within your city of Edini-
burgb and Canongate.

No. IV.
Overtures for making the Liberty practicable-.
1. That all ministers who can conveniently meet together,, associate'
themselves in the bounds of the Presbyteries, where formerly they had
their congregations; and if there be not a number alive, that can
make up a competent meeting, that they of the adjacent Presbyteries,
or, if need and convenience be, all of the whole synod join together ;
and that they take in amongst their number, such ministers of their
perswasion, as Providence hath cast tO' live in their bounds, until the-
Lord make way for their access, either to their own or other congrega
tions, and ailso those whose charges have formerly been out of the
nation. 2. That those meetings convene monthly, or more frequently, as the
conveniency of the bounds, and necessity of their affairs requires.
3. Tha-t every minister in those bounds submit himself to his

43
brethren, and that none set up a congregation by himself, without the
advice of his brethren, and the desire of the people.
4. That no expectants, without the bounds of the province, preach
without acquainting some of the ministers of that bounds ; and that
no people invite any preachei-s without acquainting some of the mini
sters of the meeting. If they be strangers or expectants, they are to
shew their testimonials.
5. That all who have not been ordained to particular flocks, come to
the respective meetings of their residence and instruct their ordina
tion ; and that henceforth none be ordained indefinitely.
6. That there be a list given in of all the Presbyterian ministers
alive, and of all probationers, who are to instruct their licences.
7. That until ministers can have access to their own congregations,
aud be accommodated with meeting-houses and dwelling-places, thej-
do, in places of their present residence, with the advice of their
brethren, and invitation of the people, exercise their ministry, or con
tinue to do as formerly in their families.
8. That the respective meetings be careful to recommend to people,
the hearing and calling of fit and qualified persons, and that special
regard be had to such suffering ministers as cannot have access to
their own congregations.
9. That it be recommended to the respective meetings to take
narrow inspection of the whole bounds, and employ their brethren or
expectants for supplying the people with preaching, and call for help,
where need is, from ministers and expectants, from other provinces,
and that they encourage young men in their studies, keep the rules of
the assemblies in their trials, and ordain them upon calls from con
gregations. lb. That the respective meetings give their advice, and concur with
the people for setting up of meeting-houses in the most convenient
places, especially considering that one house may be useful for the
people of divers adjacent congregations ; and it cannot be expected
that there can be as many meeting-houses as parishes, especially in
the country.
11. That associate meetings take a prudent way to get the con
currence and countenance of persons of quality, for the furtherance
of the gospel, have with them ruling elders, set up elderships where
they are not, chuse moderators and clerks, keep registers of their pro
ceedings, behaving themselves humbly and gainingly toward all those
other perswasions.
12. That ministers, in their respective meeting-houses, lecture as
formerly, preach, if able, twice every Lord's Day, and week days ;
and if they can conveniently exercise discipline, and endeavour to have
knowledge of all who are subject unto them, be frequent in catechising
as the great mean of edification, and obviating error, prepare the peo
ple for the sacrament, and administer the same so soon as they can
conveniently, seeing it hath been so long in desuetude, cause to set up
family worship, and exhort to seeking of God in secret, keep session-
books, and registers of baptisms, and marriage, and collections for the
poor. 13. That ministers, in their respective bounds, choose two delegates
or more,— one of five; and if fewer, but one ; and if but one, that that
one come to attend the publick meetings, as they shall be called
pro re nata, bring with them a ruling elder ; and that every meeting
correspond as formerly with the adjacent provinces.
14. That where there is not a constitute eldership among those of
a meeting-house, who design to call a minister, the respective
ministers of the bounds, send some of there number to constitute an

44
eldership, with the advice of the heads of families belonging there
unto, that the calling and settling of the minister there may be the
more orderly.
15. That in supplying of meeting-houses, and planting of ministers,
special regard be had to the noblemens, residences, and considerable
congregations. 16. That special care be taken that Edinburgh, which is the chief
city of the nation, where courts and judicatories, and persons of
greatest quality reside, and which hath been most useful to suffering
persons in these sad times, be especially regarded and provided with
able, experienced, and godly men ; and in the mean time, while mini
sters can be got to them in an orderly way, by transportation or other
wise, the respective ministers of the bounds carefully provide them
with the most able of those whom Providence hath trysted to reside in
the bounds.
17. That where a parish is in a capacity to give encouragement to a
Presbyterian minister, where their old minister is alive, who was their
called minister at the time of the change, that he be obliged to return
to them, and they to adhere to him.
18. That care be taken, in meekness and love, to reclaim all persons,
preachers, or others, who have stepped aside in the hour of temptation,
and day of darkness, especially those who are given to wild courses.
19. 'That ministers who shall be settled in meeting-houses, carry
abstractly, inoffensively, and unconcernedly, as to their own main
tenance, that the world may see that it is not our own things, but the
concerns of Christ Jesus we have before our eyes.
20. That preachers forget not to pray for our dread Sovereign, his
consort, and the royal family, and persons in authority.
21. That unity, harmony, and love be entertained among ourselves,
and former taken offences be covered with the mantle of charity and
not noticed, except where there is matter of just and unquestionable
offence to be removed, which is to be done by the respective meeting!*
in the most prudent way.
22. That the. respective meetings set apairt days for prayer and
humiliation among themselves.
23. That the respective meetings chuse their delegates the first day
of their meeting, to be in readiness to come to Edinburgh the first
Wednesday of October next, or sooner, if advertised by the brethren
of the province of Edinburgh.
24. "That doubles of the letters condescended on by this meeting,
to be sent to congregations and ministers abroad in foreign parts; be
transmitted to the respective meetings, to be made use of by them as
the import requires.
[The last of those overtures brings me to the letter this same meet
ing agreed upon to be sent through the different congregations where
there was any room for it ; and it savours so much of a gospel and
healing spirit, that it deserves a room here, and I give it from one
of the original letters in my hand, signed by Mr Andrew Mortoun,
moderator of the meeting. — Wiidrow.']

No. V.
Letter (from the Meeting of Presbyterian Ministers) lothe People.
Dearly beloved Friertds in Christ,
The ministers of the gospel, who have been here occasionally toge
ther, to consider of the improvement we are called to make of the
signal and unexpected mercy God Imth been pleased to bestow on this

4,')
poor afHicteJ Church, by putting it into the heart of the King to
grant unto us the free and peaceable exercise of our ministry, so long
denied to us, and the benefit thereof to you, having compassion upon
the unsettled condition of the people, and considering what sad incon
veniences they have been under, tlie many and great snares th.ey
have been exposed unto, through the want of the fixed inspection of
their faithful pastors and guides ; and not doubting but a great many
are longing and thirsting after the same, have thought it their duty
unanimously to concur in stirring up and encouraging those holy
desires in you, that you may lay hold on the present opportunity for
obtaining the sincere milk of the Word, and somewhat of these benefits
you have been so long deprived of; beseeching you in the bowels of
our Lord Jesus Christ, that laying aside all heats and animosities,
imitual jealousies and suspicions, you may be perfectly joyned together
in one mind and one heart, to promote this necessary work of your
own and others edification and salvation ; and, therefore, that such of
you as want pastors, do seek, in the most orderly way, to be furnished
with them, and such as have them yet alive in the kingdom, do call
and encourage them home to their proper work, subjecting yourselves to
their ministry ; and those whose pastors are without the kingdom, do
also use all diligence to call them home to you, endeavouring to have
all obstructions removed out of the way of their return. And to
enforce the same the more, it is desired that this letter of ours be
transmitted to them by you, with your invitation to your respective
pastors, as a testimony of our unanimous and hearty concurrence with
you therein, and thejoyning of our earnest desires with][yours for their
speedy return. Which, with your fervent prayers at the throne of
grace, for the Lord's being pacified, his gracious return, and making
his face to shine both upon you and us, that the good pleasure of the
Lord may prosper among our hands, is all at present recommended to
you, by Your affectionate friend in Christ,
Subscribing at the desire of the ministers met at Edinburgh,
July 21, 1C87. AND. MORTOUN.

The Declaration of his Ilighness William Henry, by the Grace
of God Prince of Orange, &c., of the Reasons inducing him to np-
pear in Arms for preserving of the Protestant Religion, and for re
storing the Lawes and Liberties of the ancient Kingdorae of Scot
land. It is both certain and evident to all men, that the publike peace and
happines of any state or kingdome, can not be preserved, where the
lawes, liberties, and custoraes established by the lawfull authority in
it, are openly transgressed and annulled, more especially where the
alteration of religion is endeavoured, and that a religion which is con
trary to law is endeavoured to be introduced ; upon which those who
are most immediately concerned in it, are indispensably bound to
endeavour to preserve and maintain the established lawes, liberties,
and customes, and, above all, the religion and worship of God that is
established among them ; and to take such an effectuall care that the
inhabitants of tho said state or kingdome, may neither be deprived of
D

46
their religion nor of their civill rights. Which is so much the more
necessary, because the greatness and security both of kings, royall
families, and of all such as are in authority, as well as the happines of
their subjects and people, depend, in a most especiall manner, upon
the exact observation and maintenance of these their lawes, liberties,
and customes.
Upon these grounds it is, that wee cannot any longer forbear to de
clare, that, to our great regret, wee see that those connsellours, who
have now the chiefe credit with the King, have overturned the re
ligion, lawes, and liberties, of those realmes, and subjected them in
ail things relating to their consciences, liberties, and properties to
arbitrary governmen t ; and that not only by secret and indirect waies,
but in an open and undisguised manner.
And indeed the lamentable effects of an arbitrary power and of
evill counsells are so manifest in the deplorable state of the kingdome
of Scotland, that both our reason and conscience doe prompt us to an
abhorrence of them. For when wee consider the sad condition that
nation, though always affectionate to the royall family, and governed
for many ages by laws made by the authority of their kings, and of
the estates of parliament, and by common customes, is rednced to,
by endeavours that have been used to change the constitution of the
monarchy regulate by laws, into a despotick or arbitrary power : which
doth evidently appear not only by the actings of evill conncellours in
power, but by the deliberate and expressive publick declarations,
bearing that the king is an absolute monarch, to whom obedience
ought to be given in all things without reserve, thereby to make way
to introduce what religion they please, without so much as the necessity
of the consent of the nation by their estates in parliament. Whilest
wee consider and ponder these things as wee cannot but be touched with
a tender sense of those miseries, so the giving such a remedy to them
as may be proper and may answer the expectation of all good men,
and true Protestants, is the great thing which wee propose to ourselves
in this undertaking ; the equity whereof will be justified to the world,
if what hath been acted at the instigation of those evill councellours
be further impartially weighed.
It is well known that the lawes, privileges, and rights of the king-
dome have been overturned to the great prejudice of King and people,
whilest thus all foundation of confidence and trust is removed. And
it is no less known what have been the arbitrary procedures of an en
croaching privy conncill ; for although by the laws enacted by the
authority of king and parliament, it is expressly prohibited that the
Popish religion should be professed, |or seminary priests suffered
within the kingdome, or that the children of any noblemen or gentle
men should be sent abroad to be educated in Popish colledges ; yet
have these evill councellours ordered or suffered young noblemen to be
taken from their relations, and to be sent abroad to be instructed in
Jesuites colledges, and have likeways caused schools to be erected
under the conduct of Popish priests, and that in the capitall city of
the kingdome.
In an open contempt also of the known laws of the kingdome. Papists
are put into places of highest trust, both civil and military, and en •
trusted with all the forts and magazines. The rights and privileges of
the royall burrows, the third estate of parliament, having as many de
puties in it as all the shires in the kingdome, are taken away, and they
hindered in the free election of their magistrates and town councells,
to the manifest violation of their charters, established by law and
iromemoriall possession. And all this is done by mere arbitrary
power, without any citation, triall, or sentence.

47
And whereas no nation whatsoever can subsist without the admi
nistration of good and impartiall justice, upon which mens lives and
liberties, their honours and estates depend, yet those evill councellours
Lave subjected these to an arbitrary and despotick power : having
turned out judges, who by law ought to continue during their life or
their good behaviour, because they would not conform themselves to
their intentions, aud put others in their places, who they believe would
be more compliant, and that without any regard to their abilities : by
which it evidently appears that those evill councellours design to
render themselves the absolute masters of the lives, honours, and
estates of the subjects, without being restrained by any rule or law.
By the influence of the same evill councellours hath a most ex-
horbitant power been exercised in imposing bonds and oaths upon
whole shires without any law or act of parliament : in permitting free
quarters to the souldiers, although they had a sufficient establishment
for their pay, whereby the kingdome was doubly burdened without any
redres ; in imprisoning gentlemen without any, so much as alleged,
reason, forceing many to accuse and witness against themselves, im
posing arbitrary fines, frighting and harassing many parts of the coun
trey with iutercommoning and justice-airs, making some incurre for
feiture of life and fortune for the most generall and harmless converse
even with their nearest relations outlawed. And thus bringing a con
sternation upon a great part of the kingdome, which when outlawries
and intercommoniners went out against multitudes upon the slenderest
pretexts, was involved so universally in that danger, that tliose coun
cellours themselves were so obnoxious as to find it necessary to have
pardons and indemnities, whilest the poor people were left to mercy ;
impowering officers and souldiers to act upon the subjects living in
quiet and full peace, the greatest barbarities, in destroying them be
hanging, shooting, and drouwning them without any forme of law, or
respect to age or sexe, or in giving some of them time to pray to God
for mercy : and this for son but because they would not answer
or satisfy them in such questions as they proposed to them without
any warrant of law, and against the common interest of mankind,
which frees all men from being obliged to discover their secret
thoughts ; besides, a great many other violences and oppressions, to
which that poor nation had been exposed without any hope of having
an end put to them, or to have relief from them.
And that the arbitrary and illegall proceedings of those evill coun
cellours might be justified and supported, such a declaration hath been
procured by them, as strikes at the root of the government, and
overturns the most sacred rights of it, in making all parliaments un
necessary, and taking away all defences of religion, liberty, and pro
perty, by an assumed and altered absolute power, to which obedience
is required without reserve : which every good Christian is perswaded
to be due to God Almighty alone, all whose commandements are
always just and good.
These evill councellours have used their utmost endeavours to
abolish penall laws, excluding all who are not Protestants from
publick trust, which give too great a check to their designes. For
the accomplishing of this a liberty hath been granted to Dissenters ;
but such as one, as that the continuance thereof is plainly insinuated
to depend upon their hearty concurrence for abolishing the abovemen-
tioned penall laws, the only legal defence of their religion ; although the
Dissenters have just cause of distrust when they call to mind how soma
hundreds of their ministers were driven out of their churches without
either accusation or citation : the filling of many of whose places with
ignorant and scandalous persons, hath been one great occasion of all

48
those miseries whicli that countrey, for a lonr time, hath groined
under. And Dissenters have but small grounds to rest on any pre
sent ease founded upon a proalamation which may be recalled every
hour, and which, in the first and second editions of it, gave no relief
to them, especially, considering, that not many months before, the
greatest of the forementioned severities and barbarities had been
exercised upon thera.
But, to crown all, there are great and -violent presumptions, inducing
us to believe, that those evill councellours, in order to the carrying on
of their ill designs, and to the gaining to themselves the more time
for the effecting of them for the encouraging of their complices, and,
for the discouraging of all good subjects, have published that the
Queen hath brought forth a son : tho there have appeared both
during the Queens pretended bignes ; and, in the manner in which
the birth was raana,T;e(i,so many just and visible grounds of suspicion,
that not only we ourselves, but all the good subjects of those king-
domes doe vehemently suspect that the pretended Prince of Wales
was not bom by the Queen. And it is notoriously known to all the
world that many both doubted the Queens bignes, and of the birth ot
the child, and yet there was not any one thing done to satisfy them,
or to put an end to their doubts.
And since our dearest and most entirely beloved consort, the
Princesse, and likewise wee ourselves have so great an interest in
this matter, aud snoha right, as all the world knows, to the succession
of these kingdomes, which those men have attempted to violate, for
preventing of all redress of miseries, by the lawfull successors of the
crown, educated by the good providence of God, in the true profession
of the Protestant religion, wee cannot excuse ourselves from espousing
the true interests of these nations in matters of such high consequence,
and from contributing all that lies in us for the defence of the laws
and liberties thereof, the maintaining of the Protestant religion in
them, and the securing of the people in the enjoyment of all their just
rights. But that our intentions may be so manifest that no person may
doubt or pretend to doubt thereof, to excuse themselves from con
curring with us in the just design for the universall good of the
nation. Wee do declare that the freeing that kingdome from aU hazard
of Popery and arbitrary power for the future, and the delivering it
from what at the present doth expose it to both, the settling of it by
Parliament upon such a solid basis as to its religious and civill concerns
as may most effectually redress all the abovementioned grievances,
are the time reasons of our present undertaking as to that nation.
And therefore wee persuade ourselves that our endeavours to give
the best assistance wee can for the relief of so distressed a kingdome,
shall not only not be misconstrued, but shall also be accompanied with
a cheerfull and universall concurrence of the whole nation, that even
those who have been instruments for the enslaving of it, will now
show their dislike of what they have done by their timeous and rea
sonable diligence for its rescue ; and if any shall not give us that
assistance which their conscience to God, and their respect to their
countrey oblige them to, they shall be justly charged with all the
evills that may be the effects of such a want of their duty.
And as wee ourselves desire to trust to the Almighty God alone for
the success of our arms, so wee expect of all good men that they will
apply themselves to him most earnestly for his blessing upon our
endeavours, that so they may rend to the glory of his great name, to
the establishment of the reformed churches, and to the peace and
happiness of that kingdome.

49
Given under our hand and seal at our court in the Hague, tenth of
October, in the year cif our Lord 1688.
WILLIAM HENRY, Prince of Orange.
By his Highnesses special command,
C. HUYGSNS.

Adqbess, the Presbiterians of Scotland to the Prince of Orange.
JThere is no date upon this document, which is copied from Wod
row's Collection ; but, from its being addressed to the Prince of
Orange, it most probably was about the time that the Convention
tendered the Crown of Scotland to William and Mary.]
May it please your\Royall Highnes.
When we considderhow the Lord did bless your illustrious progeni
tors in being the hapie instruments of so much good to his Church, and
in standing in the gape, and appearing for the people of God his truth
and interest in the tymes of greatest extreamities, when maters
seemed desperate in the eyes of all who could look no higher than
the hand of the second causes, and how the Lord crowned the resolute
indeavors with the successe of planting a beautifull church in the United
Provinces, and delyvering the people of God ther, from the fury of tho
Spanish persecutiones, and that your royall Highnes hath succeeded
these worthies of the land as in their estates, and dignities, so in their
zeal for the gospell of Chryst, sympathie with the suffering people,
and magnanimous resolutione in appearing in such ane astonishing
way for the kingdome of our Lord Jesus and for his faithfull servants,
whyle lying in the mouth of the lyon, qlk refuge failled, and we looked
on the right and left hands and no man was found, till the Lord raised
up your royall Hienes, and put it in your heart to lay down lyfe and
all things of an incorporall interest at the stake, qlk ye did act for his
glory and lamentably oppressed servants. Ah I we have not hearts to
pryze that wonderfull mercy 1 The greatest of past and present suf
ferings, the unexpressable hazard, the remeedless conditione (as to the
hand of man), wee seemed to be in, do highten the mercy beyond our
apprehensione, so that, when your Highnes first appeared, we -n'ere
like them that dream, and our hearts were filled with mater of hope
and joy : yet how were we overwhelmed with fear, considering our
provocations and sining in the face of judgments, and in a day of so
much wrath and indignatione, the combinatione of so much potent
adversaries, the perills from wind and rageing sea, the hazard to your
valient army, but especiallie to your Highnes royall persone, sent us
to the throne of grace, (and O how great had our guiltiness been if wee
had Iven by) to wrestle for the protectione of heaven towards your
Highnes persone, army and navy ; and now that the Lord hath not
dispysed the prayer of the destitute, and has made his outstreached
arm appear in the prudent conduct and desyrable success of such ane
heroick undertaking, and that the Lord hath melted the hearts of
some in makeing them joyn with your Highnes forces, hath bound up
the hands of implacable enemies, and hath stopt allways for escaping,
is the doeing of our God and wonderfull in our eyes. God forbid that
ever we forgett such a mercie so that we neglect to stir up the people
under our charge, to magnifie his name for reasonable and so great a
mercy, qch, upon seTerall accounts, may be compared with the deliver
ing of God's people -out ai .H:0'I''> ^^ '''*' "*" Babylon, and from anti-

50
Christian darknes by the reformatione begun by Zwinglius and
Luther, if now we get grace to improve it to the honour of his name.
Great Sir, as the welfare and happines of the Church hath mainly in
fluenced your Highnes great undertaking, so we are confident that the
saidcaice of the Church of Scotland, occasioned by the overturning that
beautifull government, the Presbiterian government of the Church
established ther, and other churches of France, United Provinces, &c.,
will, by your tender care and providence, now find ane suitable re
medy, and that your Highnes will eommisserat the deplorable state of
a Church once famous for its reformatione purity, piety, and unity;
and how refreshing was it to Chrysts afflicted ones to find that your
Highnes was so nearly concerned and so deeply touched with our deep
sufferings, as to hold forth your sympathy in your Highnes graceous
declaratione, conteaning ane just epitome of our sad tryalls, (and on
such accoumpt unparalliled sufferings which would requyre a volume
for rehearsing the severall particulars, and giving a full history of the
mercyles persecutiones we were forced to lie under since the creatione
of Prelacie ;) yet the severity ran to such a bight, that, by the act 8,
K. Jan. 7, parliament it was statute, and ordained that all preachers in
house or field conventickles should be punished by death, and con-
fiscatione of goods ; and though, by the light of nature and law of
nationes, it be the oppressed innocents refuge to supplicat the judge or
ruler, it wes accompted ane cryme of the highest demerits and his
Majesties commissioner, in his first Parliament, after his return from
exyll, sent to the severall provinciall synods then meeting at the sett
tyme, to raise them, which accordingly they did. So soon as they did
move, as all of them were to doe, towards ane supplicatione to the
parliament for ratifyeing the government of the Church established
by the K. and solerane act of parliament ; and if tongue can express
the oppressiones we have mett with since that day ; and though it were
not pertinent in this our humble addresse to trouble your roysil Highnes
with an accompt of the particulars, yet we have given to these now
sent from us to your Highnes such informatione concerning these as
during the tyme of our staying together we could provyde, which they
are ready to offer to your Highnes quhen requyred. Neither could we
take upon us to condescend upon any method for remedy of our grie
vances. But inteirly relying upon your Highnes zeall for the glory of
God and of his Church, doe, in all humility and in the bowells of
Chryst, intreat your Highnes to procure the extirpatione of Prelacie
and the establishment of the Presbiterian government of this Church,
and the restoring of the faithfull ministers of Chryst to thir respective
charges from which they were unjustly thrust out.
It will not (wee hope) seem strange to your Highnes goodnes
though some of us being on the place, the K. allowed the ministers
the free exercise of ther ministrie, opened the prison doors and let the
captives at liberty, recalled the exylled, took of the arrests, and per
mitted these to return to ther homes who knew not where to hide ther
heads, did, by the address, thankfully acknowledge the favor of a litle
respit from so much slavery and intolerable sufferings ; all of them
being ready solemnly to protest that it was far from ther thoughts to
homologat the liberty gi-anted to Papists, or the arbitrary dispensing
power (to speak nothing of the absolute power, without reservatione,
claimed by his Majestie, and asserted by parliament and connsell.)
But with confidence of your Highnes persuasione of our integrity in that
mater, makes us forbear any farder apology. But 0 ! as the Lord hes
followed your pious endeavours for delyvering Brittan and Ireland from
the persecutiones they were lying under (while they could espy no
remedy) with wonderfull success, so ho would be pleased to strengthen

51
your Highnes for goeing on in .this work, and making yow ane liapy
instrument for delivering ther churches [from] under Popish persecu
tiones. Babylon the great most fall, and that this may be the tyme and
your Highnes the man of Gods right hand wham he hath made strong
for being eminently instrumentall in such ane glorious work, — that he
would more aud more sanctifie and humble you under his bountifuU
dispensationes, would guard and preserve your persone, and multiply
his choice blessings, spirituall and temporal!, on your precious Princess,
your royall consort, shall bo the conlinowall prayer of
Seren Highnes,
Your asiduous orators at the thron of grace, and most faithfull
and humble servants.
Sir, — If we most have mett for moveing in this great concernment,
or had knowen how to transmit any testimonie of j'our congratuhitioue
at your Highnes saif arryval, we had not been so tar wanting in duety
as to have delayed to this tyme, and if it had been suposed needful
to have called ane farther meeting, we know few do now, except such
as are byassed by interest, or occasione to our persecutione, who
would not have cordially concurred in our gratulatione ; so in this our
humble supplicatione to your royal Highnes, for evidenceing our zeall
to your Highnes happines and pro^erity, we have appoynted ane
solemn day of thanksgiving for your Highnes great and glorious
success to be furthwith observed in all
and that continowall prayers be powered out to God for your Highnes
and royall consort, as in families and pnvat devotions, so in privat
meetings. (Titled on the back, — " The Presbiterian's Adress to the Prince
of Orange, 1689.",) Wodrow's M.S., vol. 34, No. 2., in Ad
vocates' Library. There is another address to the same effect
in the appendix to Wodrow's printed work, vol. ii. p. 211,
which bears to be signed in January 1689, and whicli has. a
modernized aspect, if it be authentic.

LEVEN AND MELVILL PAPERS.

I.
LETTER, Lord Melvill to the Earl of Dunfermline.
Edinburgh, 25th January 1689.
My Lord Airlie came home one Monday last with Calder. Tho
west countrey is gone mad, having dispossesst all the ministers of
their churches, and have killed one Mr Love a minister at Glasgow.
It is thought they have a designe to be here to doe the lyke. * * *

IL
LETTER, Lord Stair to Lord Melvill.
London, 27th March 1689.
If alteration be to be made in the Church, it will be great unkindnes*
to the King to have it after that he is proclaimed, for then it must

52
have his consent aud will lay the charge at his door. The Hlsli
Church men are alarmed heir at his speech in parliament, to tak off
all restraints of Protestants, that all of them might be capable to
serve in this conjunctur.

III.
Sir John Dalut ple to Lord Melvill. June 26, 1689.
After this act was twice read over, my Lord Com. told that to
morrow ho would bring in Church government ; hot he told ine this
night that some Presbyterian ministers had been with hira for a delay,
which I apprehend is granted. The party thinks the King will cer
tainly, in that session, establish the Church government ; and if it
were done, other things that are not so much of moment may be left
unfinished,  therefore they are prevailled with to staff off that which
wold anticipat many idle and humourous questions, hot I am sur
the generality of tho ministers wold not be off that opinion. So to
morrow WB ar like to hav a warm dyett.

IV.
Earl of CuAWFORD to Lord Melvill. 27th June 1689.
Our heats and animosities do rather grow then decrease ; and yet I
am of opinion, if this parliament be dissolved, the King's interest may
be in danger of ruining in this nation, for no new choise can possibly
be expected to any advantage, nor do I think that an adjournment
could be ventured on without manifest danger and a construction of the
body of the nation, that a breach were designed betwixt the King and
liis people. Some are industriously spreading reports that few of the
grievances shall be redressed, and others are at little pains to unde
ceive in this matter, who perfectly know the King's readiness to
gratifie his people in all their just desyres. It is now evident, by a
motion allready tabled in parliament, that all shall be voted incapable
of publick trust, who, being formerly in the rule, were judged grievous,
and that some particular acquaintances of your lordships and mine
are aimed at. 'Things of this nature, alswell as new grievances, are
conserted in privat clubbs, and then by some leading member dayly
presented in the house, when, after some short arguing, (for which tlie
one syde is altogether unprepared), they go to a vote, which method is
fiirr more agreeable to their temper, and more effectually dispatches
their bussiness then if they were under the consideration of a com
mittee, where they could not be so perfectly secret, nor so unanimously
agreed to as in their caballs. One method by which they act is their
chiefe toole with which they trade in the representation which they
inculcate with all the cunning and insinuation imaginable, that your
lordship and my Lord Stares designes to obstruct the settlement of pure
Presbyterie, aud frankly do offer to serve that interest to the full, in
caise others comply with them previously to concurr in some methods
which may strengthen their interest, and strip your lordship of some

53
of those whom they name your friends. When 1 came to understand,
with some assurance, that this was the prevailing argument, and that
no privat discourses would cure them of this mistake, I made the
question to know, if they found an equal readiness in your lordship's
friends, and these of my Lord Stares, for the settling of the Presby
terian government, would they then be prevailed with to consider of
your lordship and him as good countrymen, and forbear their insisting
on new grivances ? This has been my work yesterday in the aftei-
noon, and all day, and, with tolerable success, upon which, by myselfe
and others, the commissioner hes been strongly urged, and at last hes
agreed to table the bussiness of Church government toomorrow in
Parliament, where an indication of his own temper in that matter
will either weaken or advance his interest as he behaves ; but the
chiefe sticklers in matters this evening, smelled my aim of friendship
to your lordship, and the loss they shall be at when the zeal of
others for that way, shall equall if not outdoe theirs, and are now
importuning the Presbyterian ministers, that they deal with the mem
bers to wave that matter for a fortnight, against which tyme they
shall have all things so conserted that the issue cannot faile to be
favourable. If they succeed in this, I have ground to believe that
their procedour against your lordship's friends will run very high be
fore that tyme elapse. They make use of a by occasion for favouring
of this delay. An address from the conforme ministers in the diocie
of Aberdeen for a generall assembly, which if agreed to, they bring
foure to one, in respect of the ministers of the Presbyterian way, shall
effectuuUy restore their interest, or at least impead the settlement of
pure Presbyterie. The commissioner has received that address, aud
plainly tells that if overtures be made for the one syde, he will listen
to them in behalfe of the other. This does so alarm members, that I
am afraid they shall be diverted from dipping much in this subject
to-morrow ; and, in that caice, the old project shall continue, except
we who are your lordship's friends shall warmly concern our selves,
and give evidence of our zeal beyond others, to have the house of God
well appoynted.

Master of Stair (Sir J. Dalrymple) to Lord Melvill.
January 28, 1689.
* * * The ministers who are heir are but few, and most of them
ingadged in the club. I'hey did solicit it, with all their power, not to
bring in their address which was finished on Wednesday, nor any
Church matter, till the stat were" first reformed, bein threatened, that,
if they left their friends in humour, they wold leav them in necessity,
and, with all, the commissioner and they will probably come to a
breach when this comes in. They wer told that the tyd running
to strip the crown of all its prerogative, a,nd lodge all in the people,
if they wer so farr from a peacable temper as to fui-nish an occasion
of a cessation, that, rather then the King wer not spoiled, they would
ventur their own settlement, he could not construct that weill ; yet
all wold not prevail with thes. One tho' I am sur the bulk
wold not take this cours. Then we did proceed with the act which is
shortly to incapacatat all thes who wer gi-ievous in the former govern
ment, or who had bein opposit to this revolution, or who had bein
opposers or retarders of the states doings. Thes generalls, if the ap
plication were in hands indifterent, or that the King gott any shiar or
not at all to be contended against, only it iraplyes the King, notwith-

54
fitanding of his declaration and the two letters from the committy and
estats remembering him of the sam things, yet he had contraveen
.and was like not to keep either his promise or their advice.

VI.
Sir John Dalrymple Master of Stair to Lord Melvill.
Edinburgh, July 2, 1689.
* * * Ther was an act brought in for establishing Episcopacy,
in the tearms of the instrument of government. Ther was a claus
added to the end that gav offenc to the commissioner, being added
after it was showen to him about the setling of Presbiterian govern
ment. Ther was an address read from the Sinod of Aberdeen desiring
a conference and an union amongst the Protestants, differing only in
small matters. Its probable the other act will pase.

VIL
Earl of Crawford to Lord Melvill. July 6, 1689.
Upon great importunitie from several members and others of most
interest with him, my Lord Commissioner was prevailed with yester
day to be a little more pleasant anent Church governrfient than was
expected. Yet the inclosed acts were once, more extensive and fa
vourable than they are now conserted, and he delays to touch them
with the sceptre until he see the whole platform that is designed.
A new supply of money was likewise tabled, and universally well
relished in the house; but the members resoMt to do nothing in it
until the committee, after their own modell, were once chosen for
settling of Church government, and that some of their grievances were
redressed. * * * The last dyett of Parliament, there was not a
single person among us that had the confidence to urge any thing for
prelacie, and they were but a handfull that spoke of restricting of
Presbyterie. Whatever was of that kind was chiefly urged by the
commissioner, without appearing for : it would have no entertainment
in our house.

VIIL
Master of Stair to Lord Melvill. 12th July 1689.
* * My Lord,— This day hath, I hope, convinct the wordle of the
malice and self designs of thes few persons who hav been instrumentall
to make the Presbiterians refuse or delay ther own happines ; and, I
hop, upon Wednesday next, they will be wiser; tho' Skelmorly,
Polwart,and the club, do continue impudently mad yet, but I fear that
the commissioner may take the advantage of his instructions, and
adjourn them when they fall easy about the Church government,
which he does not wish to establish, without such qualifications as will
not satisfy them ; and ther is great danger that, if the parliament ryse
without setling the Church goveniment, that ther will be tumults and
confusions in holding and usurping of pulpits, * * *

55
IX.
Lord Cardross to Lord Melvill. 20th July 1689.
* * The Church government was tabled and three general acts
presented to be past, all which wer, after reading, delayed to the then
next sederunt, which was yesterday. All wer now in some hopes of
a good agreement, and that the Church matters wold goe vigorously
one. * * * If Church matters come in on Munday, I suppose it
will be that act that only takes away patronage and restores the outed
Preshyterian ministers that are alive, that will pass. The act that was
presented by my Lord Commissioner wold moke us in as ill a con
dition as we were if not wors.

Master of Stair to Lord Melvill. July 24.
* * I see we shall make no advance at this tim in the Church
government. Sum talk that they will not hav Presbitry established
till the Church be purged, and it be cleered in whos hands it must
be committed : so they say (for I know nothing till the club bring it
in) that ther may be an act in plain parliament, that all thurst out
either by ther nonconformity to Episcopacy or the test may be restored,
and a committy of parliament named, eight for each estat, with sora
ministers on both sydes to consider who of the ourats ar vicious and
scandalous, and who ar to be retained. * *

XL
Earl of Crawford to Lord Melvill. 1st August 1689.
My Lord, — Yesterday the act restoring the Presbiterian ministers
who were turned out since 1661 for their nonconformitie to Prelacy, past
the house, but was not toutchcd by the scepter tho' it was greatly urged.
Another act was dropt, for restoring such of the conformists as had
gone off for the test in 1681, which, after much debate yesterday, and
some little arguing to-day, was waved as a thing unagreeable to the
house. The consequences of that act would have been ruineing to the
Presbiterian interest, and that for several reasons : — The pretence for
the restoring of them being founded upon the claime of right, as leised
persons, would by a stronger argument, likewise have reponed all
those ministers in the west and south country, who, upon the change
of affairs, had been turned out by the people, which, in the meeting of
the estates, was considered as a thing not to be quarrelled, least wee
should disturb the peace in those shires, and who in no case would
allow of their returning, and the rather that ministers of their own way
are fixed in their churches. 2dly, If all those had an equall shaire in
the rule with the nonconformists, as was pleaded, they being farr
more in number, might and would in a short time overturn the Church
government, and depose, if they pleased, the Presbiterians. 3dly, If
our ministers, before the conformists submitting to prisbitrie, should
join in meetings with them, the people would certainly forsake both.
4thly, Such a method of reponing of those ministers, would effectually
destroy the call of the people, and confirme patronages. Sthly, As
many of those ministers came not in by the Church at first, so it would

5G
be a confirmation of the magistrats power for that o£"ect in all time
coming. 6thly, Of those that went of for the test, some quite their
charges for maintaining the divine right of Prelacy, — others for being
unsound in the faith, Arminians and Sociuians, and upon that reason
disowning our Confession of Faith ; and some being scandalous in
their life, thought it the most specious pretence upon which they could
leave their churches. 7thly, If there were any change in their prin
ciple, they would have applyed to the ministers, and not to the parlia
ment, who would have trated them, upon their submission, with all
the Christian charitie imagineable. Bthly, There are of these anti-
testors, severalls, yea, the most of them, already fixed in other churches,
in token that they went not off for nonconformitie, but were against
things that were truely good in the test. 9thly, The act makes no dis
tinction amongst those ministers, whereas many of them do not own
the present government by praying for our King and Queen ; some of
them pray for the late king, and a few have been in company with the
Lord Dundee and his associates. I am the larger upon this theam, in
that I am told the commissioner may represent it at court with all the
specious pretexts imaginable; and that, if he succeed in it, our mini
sters will preach upon their adventure, as in former times, without a
desire to have the least shaire in the government. Since I was told
by the commissioner that I was not to proceed more in the council,
I have never attended, — nor did my friends and acquaintances judge
I could in credit give presence under another capacitie than 1 once
had, which has putt the commissioner to some trouble of proceeding
himselfe, notwithstanding of his present character, since none belonging
to the conncill would put that affront on me as to justifie that act of
his, commanding me from the chair, and upon a ground which they
could not find the least shaddow of offence done to him, the board, or
the government. * * * J find the body of the nation much dis
satisfied that nothing can be extorted from him in relation to the
Church, the forfaultures, or fynes, without great violence to his temper
and much importunitie upon their side ; and when an act is obtained
by much clamour, that he denies to toutch it though never so much
urged, so that what is done in these three points, does only express the
inclinations of the people without further eft'ect. I am dayly more
and more confirmed, that our King has no steady friends in this nation
but such as are of the Presbiterian persuasion ; and, on the contrary,
every Episcopall man of the clergy, and, for the most pairt, even the
Laicks, are using their utmost artifices to continue, if not increase,
the disgust that many have conceaved at the present government, and
that all the acts of favour, that the King is capable of conferring on
us, shall not so strengthen his interest, and throoghlie engage the
hearts of his friends as a present settlement of Presbiterian govern
ment, a reducing of forfaultures, and a refounding of fynes, which,
if the commissioner would concurr heartily in, would very quickly be
found the generall inclinations of this parliament, his Majesty's friends
would frankly give him their money, would readily venture their lives ;
and his enemies, if that course were taken, would quickly stoop to the
present establishment. * * *

XII.
Lord of Crawford to Lord Leven 5th August 1689.
* * * I have talked with two of the most reverend and judicious
of our ministers, and taken them engaged not to use your or my noma

57
•to their brethren in any representation they make, whether they shall
waite on the King, or by a lyne address to him,— since one of the two
seems necessary to take off discourses and to informe the King of their
principles and his interest in reference to Church matters.

XIIL
«
The Master of Stair to Lord Leven. 7th August 1689.
* * * My Lord Sinclair,— Callander and Duffus were written
to for their attendance before the connsell. I hear they hav got
togither about fyftey horses, and ar gon northward. Southesk,
Strathmor, and Glames, with som gentlemen in thes places, wer
likwys required. Its feard they follow that sam cours. This last
week they hav fallen upon many of the clergy who read the pro
clamation, and do pray for the King and Queen, and turned them out
of the doors and churches. -* * * The club will influenc things
alwys to go wors and wors, till such tim as the Kings inclinations be
understood, and then men will either acquies or they must do it. I
see little difficulty or danger on that head. * * *

XIV.
Master of Stair to Lord Melvill.
Edinburgh, August 8, 1689.
* * I told your lordship, in my last, the address which the club
had framed. Ther is a publick office to it. Polwart and Skelmorley
do attend day abont to confer with the severall persons, who, upon
the streets or other places, ar picked up and brought thither to be
satisfyed of ther scruples. * * This day the generall meeting of
ministers sat down. They hav been spoken to that, if they mak any
address, it should be to distinguis themselfs from thes who hav joined
in the faction or meddled in the King's busines ; but I do apprehend
they will run the sam cours with the club, tho' my Lord Carmichaell
hopes otherwys, and endeavours that they should make ther applica
tion try your lop., — but they did yesterday choice Polwart, Skelmorley,
Sutherland, and Arbuthnott upon the committy, so nothing can be
expected from that juncto. Really its not toUerable to hear the com
mon talk of the club. Ther is nothing mor easy then to say they will
force the King to do them right, and they wold turn out another for
what he hath don. Ther hath bein great endevours to gett the west
countreymen com in heir in a body, hot I do think the greatest
danger of thats over.

XV.
Lord Crawford to Lord Melvill.
Edinburgh, lOth August 1639.
* * * An address to his Majestie from the Presbiterian mini
sters is preparing, and two of their number designing up to improve
it to the best advantage. I have pressed that it be soberly worded,
and nothing be pleaded for but what shall be plainly necessary ibr
their inteiest. The bulk of the conformists are everywhere praying
for the. late king, for some of them may be more reserved in their way

58

then others, of them are of the same inclinations, and have dis
served our King's interest more then the army that hath been in the
fields in opposition to us, and it is in Vaine to expect peace in this
nation untill the Presbiterian government be settled, and these dis
turbers of our quiet be laid aside, and such as countenances them
IiA Hivpsted of nower. * * *

be divested of power.

XVI.
Mr John Law to Mr Kennedy of Clobnm.
Edinburgh, August 13, 1689.
* * The generall meeting has formed an addresse to be sent to
his Majesty by some of the number, with a letter to the Secretary of
Stat, which answers what you desyre in your letter. We have dis
couraging accounts here, as if Prelacy might yet come to be esta
blished, but they are so vaine that they are not layed much weight on,
and are looked upon as artifices of thes that wishes us no good, for
creating of jealousies. * * * I know ther is on thing which
makes a clamour here, and its lyk to mak on ther also ; and cace is
that we wer so long in giving in an addresse for establishing the go
vernment, and I can hardly, at such a distance, give the full account
of this, only consider, that if the government had been established, all
the conformed clergie might have constitut themselves in Presbiteries
and synods, and so would have had the government in ther hand, the
danger of which is palpable enough. * * *

XVII.
Tho. Dunbar to Lord Melvill. 4th September 1689.
Ye ar not unknovni to the condition of this poor nation. Our
Church and countray has been long in ane broken staite ; and much
hes been expected from this happie Revolution and his Majesties de
claration, yet theres nothing done this session of parliament to quiett
the minds of the people, aither in reference to church or countray.
Wher the blame lyes, the Lord knows. Sure I am of one thing :
never can onie king hav a more loyall parliament. The honest
partie (to vitt the Presbiterian), who ar undoubtedly the King's
surest friendes, and by farr the strongest in the house and kingdome,
expect gryt thinges firom your lordship, and that ye will shoue your-
sehfe for God's interest, the King and countrays good, and who knows
but the Lord has reased you up and advanced you at such a tyme for
this verie end.

XVIIL
Earl of Crawford to Lord Melvill. 8th October 1689.
My Lord, — I have for some time been much urged by Presbiterian
ministers and others of our way, that a proclamation from conncill be
issued out, prohibiting the leidges to imploy in churches, such of the
conform clergy as for their disaffection to the civill government, have
been turned out of their particular charges ; it being their constant

59
practice to preach in their brethren's congregations, who have been
likewise depryved, and they in theirs and to inflame the people by
discourses against the government, and that without the least acknow
ledgement of it, by which ill humours are equally kept up as if they
had continued in their fixed abodes. If this method be tollerat, any
purge the Church has had will be little significant, and ill inclyned
patrons will not faile to fill their churches with such, rather than
with men of another stamp. I would not bring this overture in the
publick, however convenient for our interests, untill once I had made
tryall of your lordships judgement and inclination in the matter, for to
table it and not [go] through, it would be highly prejudiciall to our
interest. There is no doubt the thing would carry in the councill, aud
in my ear has been suggested to me by severalls of our number, but
I would not adventure on this step without your lordships warrant, or
at least toUerance. Notwithstanding of the insulting of those clergie
who upon that account make little other then a sport of all the
conncill has acted to them, if your lordship shall forbid it, this pro
cedour, it would be keept perfectly secret ; for if our adversaries have
the least hint that this overtour has been made at court, or to your
lordship, and is waved as inconvenient, it would be of very sadd con
sequence to our interest ; every whisper thats favourable for the
Prelates partie, or application at court for them, or refuse all of any
desire for ours being still aggredged to that pitch, as it occasions boast
ing from our enemies, and sadd frights and faintings amongst our
friends. I shall give but one instance of this. There being a report
that Doctor Faa carried up an address in the name of the Episcopall
clergy, and that he is like to have many patrons at court for seconding
that application, there hes been a very deep ccmcern upon the spirits
of our people, least he gett too favourable a hearing, and prevale for
such a mixture among our churchmen as should entirely breake all
our measures in our Reformation among its members. I doubt nothing
but your lordship will manage this with a great deall of tenderness, the
consequence of it being very considerable in the opinion of the most
judicious in this place. What your lordship advises in it shall very
readily be obeyed, by &c.

XIX.
Earl of Crawford to Lord Melvill. 12th October 1689.
* * * In relation to the other particular in your lordship's letter,
anent the procedour against the conforming clergy, you shall have
ane ingenuous and full account. Upon the happy change of the civill
government, it was thought necessary that all ranks of people should
one way or other, acknowledge their sense of it ;,and since the influence
of ministers as well as their number was great, so those of both
persuasions by an act of the meeting of the estates were in testimony
of their loyalty at different dyetts, according to their distance from
Edinburgh, appointed to read a proclamation, certifying the leidges
that none should presume to own or acknowledge the late King James
the Seventh, or upon their highest perrill, by word, writing, or in
sermons, or any manner of way, impugn or disown the royall authoritie
of William and Mary, King and Queen of Scotland, but should
render to them their dutiefuU obedience: and that none should mis
construe the proceeding of the estates, or creat jealousies or misap
prehensions of the actings of the government, and that all the
ministers of the gospel, within the kingdome, publickly pray for King
William and Queen Mary, as King and Queen of Scotland, and read

60
that proclamation from their pulpits, upon the respective dayes therein
appointed, under the paine of being deprived and loseing their
benefices. This act was re-vived on the sixt of August, in a full
councill, while the Duke of Hamilton was here ; and all parishioneis
and hearers of such ministers as had neglected, and slighted the
reading of that proclamation, or omitted to pray for King William
and Queen Mary, were not only allowed but invited to cite such
ministers before the privy councill, and warrands granted for aducing
•witnesses to prove the same, that such as had disobeyed, might, by
a legall sentence, be deprived of their benefices. By a second act of
councill on the 22d of August, this matter was again re-vived, those
ministers haveing for the most part continued still obstinate. On the
24th of August, by a third act of councill, a proclamation was issued
out for keeping of a solemn fast for the saifety and preservation of
the Protestant religion, and the blessed success on that great and
glorious work of this nation, its being delyvered from Poprie and
slaverie, so seasonably begun ; certifying all those who shall contemn
or neglect such a religious and necessary dutie, that they shall be
proceeded against and punished, as contemners of his Majesties
authoritie, neglecters of religious services, and as persons disaffected
to the Protestant religion, as well as to their Majesties royall persons
and government. Your lordship has here the law in its full extent.
I shall now as ingenuously represent matter of fact : 1, — There is
not one single instance of a ministers being deprived for not keeping
that fast, even where the paper was delyvered to them and they owned
the receipt of it, and sometimes with contemptuous expressions,
refused their obedience to it. 2d, — None were deprived where
there was express praying for our King and Queen, even tho' there
had been a neglect in reading that proclamation, so peremptorily
enjoyned by the meeting of the estates, provyding they had not con
temptuously refused to read it, which same did (who otherways prayed
for our King and Queen,) as being unfree to approve of laying aside
of King James. 3d, — Where that proclamation was really read,
either by ministers or presenters by their order, and authoritie so far
countenanced, we did not deprive such, tho' they had only prayed in
indirect teannes, for King and Queen, notwithstanding the tenor of
the proclamation that appoints them to be named and prayed for as
our King and Queen. But the truth is, there were few before us bnt
had transgressed in all respects, in omitting to read the proclamation,
had forbom to pray for King and Queen, neglected to observe the
fast ; yea the instances are many fold where, to the bute of all these
•contempts of authorities, they likewise prayed for the late King James.
And in testimony of the certainty of thir things, there are none of
those wee have deprived, and do now preach occasionallie in other
churches then their own, but do yet continue in their former way,
without the least complyance. Then, for warrand of the councills
proceeduor, tho' there had been less cawtion then I haye truely re
presented, the act of the meeting of the Estates, anent ministers
behaveour was so express, and the certification for their disobedience
so plaine, that we did not think ourselves in saifetie to alter or minch
the tearmes of it, being an assembly we judged superior to us.
Besides, wee found the most of those men either corresponders with
the late Viscount Dundee, or instigators of their people to join him.
And that the disaffection to the civil government which is observable
in many places, as it had its rise from them, so is still industriously
kept up by them ; and in further token of our tenderness in this
matter, above 20 of those who have been before us (oven when in
some respects they were found fpultie if the evidences were not

01
nottar or the guilt deep,) were assoilzed by us, without the least
regaird to their ignorance, scandalousness of their lives, or dislike of
their people to them. And to conclude this matter, tho' I am con
vinced that his Majestie, not only has not one well wisher amongst
them all, but that there are few who have not in some fashion or
other combyned against the govei-nracnt, so in no instance, came ever
the matter to my vote, nor have I in discourse been among the
number of those who have been most» forward against them, and
seldom straiting them in questions at the barr, where there was not
deep prevarication to elude justice. * * * * * «

XX.
Lord Crawford to Lord Melvill. 14th November 1689.
My Lord, — You have by this post the councills whole procedour
against the Episcopall clergy, and a little paper narrating the circum
stances of three of thom, not so particularly exprest in the large
account. * * * The miseries that for a tract of years this nation
had groaned under, being byond all contradiction, found to be an effect
of the dislike of our people to Prelacy, the meeting of the Estates
tabled that matter as an unsupportable grievance ; and no sooner was
our King's right declared, when by a proclamation, all ranks of people
were ordered to acknowledge him as their only lawful Sovereign, aud
all ministers of the gospell, were appointed publicly from their pulpits
to read a paper owning him and the Queen, as King and Queen of
this realm, and to pray for them by their names to distinguish them
from the late King and Queen This was found so necessar service
for his majesties interest, that by an act, in a full councill, the thing
was againe revived, and all the leidges invited to cite their preachers,
and pronounsed deprivation if their libells were proven. Suited to this
law of the meeting of the Estates, the council has still proceeded, and
could not in common justice refuse to act where the law was positive,
and things distinctly proven. Nor were wee of opinion that anything
less then an act of parliament could minch, alter, or abrogat an act of
the meeting of the estates, and were convinced that wee should not be
quarrelled, in that we took not on us a dispensing power with any law
made by a judicatory above us. Besides, we were sufficiently at a
poynt, that it would have been ill service to the King, to protect those
men who, as they were the first that hounded out any into rebellion,
severalls of them by their example, and the most of thera, by their
doctrine, so by their influence, our differences have been cheefly kept
up ; and it seems strange that they, who do not acknowledge our
King's right, should have such for patrons who pretend to the greatest
loyaltie. If after all that hes been done, it be truth what the con
formists do now openly boast of, that they shall be yet reponed to
their former charges, I blush at the affront done to the meeting of
the estates and council, and tremble at the consequences of it. Tho
peoples affections to his Majestie will certainly grow colder, that some
parties, which he countenances will yet jealous him. England will
not thank for anything less than the restouration of the bishops, and
the late King shall have fewer zealous opposers then he now hes.
And to be ingenuous with your lordship, upon this whisper, I find a
great murmuring among the people, an universall complaining, a
general dejection in their countinances, and an insulting of Papists
and such Protestants as arc the late King's almost declared friends.
For the Lord's sake advert to thir matters, and use such methods a»
may retaine tlie affections of the people, &c.

C2
XXI.
Minute of Presbyterian Ministers Commissioners Account of their
Negotiation, and what was ordered thereupon.
Edinburgh, November 21, 1689.
The certainty of the address for restoring the Episcopal clergie is
not only confirmed ; but also its narrative reflecting on the privy
council found to be false, and the subsumption and conclusion was
Gonform, ordaining the privy council within six weeks after sight of the
letter, to call before them all Episcopal clergie who are turned out of
their churches, and upon assuring the privy council that they would
pray for their Majestys, King WUliam and Queen Mary, to restore
them to their benefice and office. But at the same instant when this
address was presented to have been signed by the King (without the
Secretary's knowledge), the Secretary came in, and having confirmed
his Majesty of the falseness ef the narrative and subsumption of that
address, and of the danger of its conclnsion, the said address was
rejected. A meeting was here this afternoon by a committee of the Presby
terian ministers, with whom were put their three commissionat
brethren, who reported their diligence in their negotiation conform to
^eir instructions, and withal added that they had a letter in relation
to this Church, which they desired might be cognosced upon by the
reverend committee present, which being opened it was found to
be written and subscribed by Melvill, secretary, the contents of
which are, " London, October 11.
" Beverertd and worthy Friend*,
" We received your'address to his Mojesty by your reverend and wor
thy brethren, whom we introduced to his Majesty, as also to the Queen,
who were both well satisfied with their deportment and contents of
their commission. As his Majesty in the first of his instructions to
his Majesty's commissioner in the last parliament, had ordered that
the Church in its government and discipline should be first settled, so
I am commanded by his Majesty to assure you that he still continues
of the same mind, notwithstanding of the obstructions it mett with
then, and that his Majesty would not be diverted either by soUicita-
tions or informations, but will actually effectuat the same without
any restriction or limitation whatsoever. This from your real and
assured friend, {Sic subscribitur) « MELVILL."
„ Thereafter the commissioners were desired to make report of their
negotiations, whereupon one of them spoke to this purpose :
" As we were timously and seasonably introduced to their Majestys,
so we find the King and Queen well satisfied with the contents of our
commission ; and that which was a surprise to us was, that his Majesty
thought it too hard that we, or those who joined with us, should beai-
the charge of our expenses, and therefor ordered some money to be
given us for that purpose as an evidence of his Maiestvs affection to
the Church of Scotland."
Thereafter it was concluded that a return should be made to the
Secretary and my Lord Portland, both which were contributive to their
access and success. The committee was appointed to draw the letters
for Melvill and Portland.

63
Then the throe commissioners added that the papers were writ and
ready to be signed by his Majesty, granting one year of the bishops
stipends for relief of distressed ministers widows and children.

XXII.
Earl of Crawford to Lord Melvill. 5th December 1689.
My Lord, — I had your lordships by the flying paquet, and have
obeyed in great measure what does relate to the publick. I am sony
the Presbyterian interest hes so feu friends, and so powerful enerais
at court, and am convinced this nation is ruined if we have restrictions
on that government, or the power promiscuously putt in the hands of
ministers of both persuasions. The adjournment of the parliament has
made a great clamour. I pray God we may gett the people settled
and their affections keept up ; for there is decemable heaviness in the
faces of many warmly affected to his Majestys interest, and joy very
legible in the countenances of enemies. May the issue of all be glory
to God, happiness to our King, and a reall advantage to this nation.
Your lordship will peruse the inclosed, which in the sincerity of my
heart, I have concerted for our King's information in Church matters,
and with a dew regard to his interest. If a mistake in point of fact
be found in it, I am willing to forfault my credit with him. I plead
your lordship may show it to him upon the same certification, which
upon light grounds or uncertainties, I would not rashly paund. X
entreat your lordship may practise with this paper as is desyred by,
my dear lord, your lordship's most faithful and affectionat servant,
CRAFURD.
Edin.,5thDcc. 1689.

XXIII.
Earl of Crawford to Lord Melvill. ' 10th Dec. 1689.
My Lord, — By your lordships allowance, I had not till last post,
from Mr Carstares, of the great opposition now at court to the Presbi
terian interest. It is very burdensome to me to make repetitions of
what I formerly represented, and shall only say, upon the whole, I
have laboured in vaine. I have spent my strength for nought; yet
surely my judgment is with the Lord, and my work with my God.
If what I write anent the proceedour of our council with the Episcopall
clergie were contradicted by a thousand hands, I am still ready to
make it good, that in circumstances, it is truth, and [in] evei-y syllable
I communicat to your lordship first or last on that subject. I have
one humble sute to his Majestie : if his purposes are to gratifie the
importunity of such as press him to deal favours to the conform
clergy in this nation, which I shall never believe of him untill I find
it, being so perfectly cross to his interest and the expectations of him
from all that are sincerely his friends, I may without offence be allowed
to act Hagar's part when in the wilderness, and Ishmael in hazard of
death, that I may remaine att some distance where I cannot see the
death of that child,— a Presbiterian interest in whose life, in a manner
mine is bound up, and that while there is another victim to make
sacrifice of who are really haters of his person and concerns, it be not

64
Bought of me to streach out my hand to cutt the throat of my beloved
Isaak, and bury that interest that I would gladly build. Hear, O our
God, for wee are dispised ; and turn their reproach upon their own
head, and give them for a prey in the land of captivitie, and cover not
their iniquitie, and left not their sin be blotted out from before thee ;
for they have provocked thee to anger before the builders. I trust
the wall shall be joyned togither in spight of all opposition : for I am
sure there is a godly pairtio in the land that hes a mind to work and
wrestle with the Most High, that the cope stone be putt on with
shouting. I leave the matter before the Lord, and am hopefuU that
the -wrath of man shall praise him,, that he hath not bared his right
arme in vaine, but wiU yet save his people to the outmost. I will not
farther trouble your lordship, but that I am without all complement,
my dear lord, Your lordships most faithful and affectionat
humble servant,
CRAFURD.
Edin., 10th Dec. 1683.

XXVL
Earl of Crawford to Lord Melvill.
24th December 1689.
My Lord, — I had your lordship's of December 14, and most willingly
do comply with your desire anent Mr Gordon for the collecting the
customs of Aberdeen. As the printing of his Majesty's instructions
to the Duke of Hamilton did at first relieve the people of many
of the fears they were under, so the enemies of our interest, both
of Church and State, are closely at work, representing to the weaker
Bort of people that his grace had cross instructions to those were
publisht, which he dares not reveal. The design is malicious, and the
effects are like to be sadd. The friends to the late King, they assert
it that they may disparage his present Majesty. The Episcopal
clergy, they boldly confirm it that they may discourage Presbiterians,
and tempts the giddy sort of them to irregularities ; yea, I wish
there be not hands in it who pretend to the greatest zeal for the
government. I practise what I can by myselfe amongst our mini-
e-ters, aud am employing agents everywhere to cure such of the
people as are smitten, and to prevent the infection from spreading fur
ther. That which has procured any credit to this unlucky report, is the
Gonfident procedour, in many places of the countrey, of deprived mini
sters, -who do pursue for their stipends, even for crept 1689, and that
before commissariot courts who cannot legally sitt upon a tittle from
the abolished bishops, and have no warrant from his present Majestie.
Besides, these courts, as they are now constitute, were found by the
meeting of the estates to be a great grievanc, and were appointed to
be regulated. The council, from the beginning of these mischiefs, and
the fatall issues they might have had if not speedily remedied, did,
this evening, putt a stope during their pleasure, or untill the parlia
ment sitting, to their decreets anent ministers' stipends. Another
practice hes been likewise very prevailing. Some sheriff and steward
deputes are pursuing such who attend meeting-houses, for unwarrant
able marriages and baptisms, under the late government, which all
concluded had been out of doors. I have not seen the abolished
bishops and deprived clergy so insolent, even when the government
-Nvas in their hands. The first subscribe still by their designations,

continue to ordaine ministers singly, and give waiTnnds for privat
marriages, and the last all readily obey. They preach both of them
avowedly against the government, and are no less plaine in their
prayers for the late King. They are instigat by such of the Sootts
clergy as are at London, who assure them that the English will stand
and fall with them, so that whatever mistake be truly in the thing,
they keep up the heart of their partie by forgeries unto the great dis
couragement of ours, which can scarcely be supported by all the repre-
tBentations are made by My dear Lord,
Your Lordships most faithful and
affectionat humble servant.
CRAFURD..
Edinburgh, 21st December 1689.

DETAILS OF THE PROGRESS OF THE -REVOLUTION.
Having, in the foregoing excerpts from the Leven and Melvill
MSS., given u sketch of the progress of the Revolution, and of th^
views and feelings of the Presbyterian party then in the ascendant, —
although these desultory extracts afford only glimpses of what was then
passing in Scotland, — it is but fair to present some of the statements of
the Episcopalians and adherents of the ousted government. These,
indeed, are not now to be found in the same authentic form as the
others, — but in such cases we must take the best evidence we can
find,— Jt being alws^s kept in remembrance, that the statements on
both sides are ex parte, and would require a more rigorous examination,
compared with vouchers, than we can at present bestow upon them.

Excerpts from an Account of the Persecution of the Church in
Scotland in several Letters. London, 1690.
When the certain accounts came of the Prince of Orange's resolutions
to come into England, all our standing forces were called thither ; so
that this kingdom was left destitute of such means as were necessary
to secure the peace, if any disturbance should happen te arise amongst
us. When that Prince landed. King James (being deserted by his
army, and soon after disowned by his subjects) was put upon the
necessity of leaving Britain ; and here in Scotland, his council very
soon dissolved of its own accord, so that, in ef&ct, the nation was.

66
in a m.innor, without government ; by whose fault, I am not now to
enquire. Upon this his Majesty's sudden abdication, and voluntary dissolu
tion of his council, our brethren found it seasonable for them to turn
serious with us ; but it was expedient to project how their game
might be successful, before they began to play it ; therefore a stratagem
was contrived : a general massacre of Protestants was pretended, and
alledged to be intended by the Papists ; bnt how to be effectual,
seeing their numbers were so very few, especially on the south side of
the Forth, which was to be the chief scene of the tragedy ? For that,
this salvo was at hand : So many thousands of Irishmen were land
ed in Galloway, had already burnt the towns of Kirkhudbright all
to ashes, and put all to the edge of the sword, young and old, male
and female, only three or four persons (like Job's Nuncioes) had
escaped ; and these savages were posting hard, to be over the whole
kinKdom, &c.
This story flew at the rate of a miracle, for within twenty-four
hours, or so, it was spread every where, through the greater half of
the kingdom. No body doubts now, but people were appointed at
several posts, to transmit it every where at that same time, for it run
like lightning ; and where-ever it went, it was so confidently assert
ed to be true, that he was forthwith a Papist, and upon the plot, who
disbelieved it. At first we all wondred what it might mean, but it
was not long before we learn'd, by the effects, what was the politick ;
for immediately, in the western shires, (where the fiction was first
propagated,) tumultuary rabbles knotted, and went about, searching
for arms every body's house whom they suspected as disaffected to
their interests. The pretext was, that the country might be in a
posture of defence against the Irish, but the real purpose was, that
all might be made naked who were inclinable to retard them in the
prosecution of their designs upon the clergy : Especially, they were
sure, no minister should have sword or pistol, (as, indeed, few had
any,) or any other weapon that might be useful for his defence, if any
attempt should be made on hira. When they had thus made their
pr^arations for the work, (and you would wonder to hear how
speedily, and yet how dexterously it was done,) they fell frankly
to it.
It was on Christmas day, (that day which once brought good tidings
of great joy to all people,) that day which once was celebrated by the
court of heaven itself, and whereon they sung " gloiy to God in the
highest, on earth peace, good will towards men ; '' that day which the
whole Christian Church, ever since, has solemnized, for the greatest
mercy that ever was shewn to sinful mortals ; that day, I say, it was,
(to the eternal honour of all, especially Scotch Presbyterians,) on
which they began the tragedy ; for so were matters concerted amongst
them, that upon that same very day, different parties started out of
different places and fell upon the ministers.
Particularly, about five or six of the clock at night, Mr Gabriel
Russel, minister at Govean, was assaulted by a number of fellows,
(most of them, as I am told, his own parishioners, to whom he had
sometimes done considerable kindnesses,) in his own house : They
beat his wife, his daughter, and himself too, so inhumanely, that it
had almost endangered his life ; carried off the poor's box, and other
utensils of the church ; and threatened peremptorily, if he should
ever offer, after that, to preach there, he might assure himself of more
severe treatment.
That same night, about eleven of the clock, another party came lo
the dwelling house of Mr Finnic, minister at Cathcart ; he was from

C7
home himself. The season was not only then naturally cold, but a
most vehement frost prevailed ; yet (behold their humanity !) they
thrust his wife, with four or five small children, out of doors about
midnight, threw out all his furniture', and (till after more than half an
hour's intreaty) -would not suffer the poor gentlewoman, with her
tender babes, to have lodging that night, so much as in the stable ;
nor a fire of her own walls, to keep the young ones from the severities
of the weather. The weak, tender children (and no wonder, when
exposed to such a rigour,) almost all sickened thereafter ; but whether
any of them died, I know not.
That same night Mr Buyd, minister at Carmunnock, his ftimily was
as rudely treated ; and, in many other places, it was solemnized after
the same manner. But I am not, at this time, to give you a particular
inventory of all the incredible barbarities which were, either on that,
or many subsequent days, committed ; that would make this letter
hugely swell beyond its primary design : For what work would it
requre, to present particularly.
How they took Mr Robert Bell, minister at Kilmarnock, from his
chamber on a very frosty day; kept him four or five hours bare-head
ed, exposed to the cold ; caused his own sexton to tear his gown in
pieces from his shoulders; took the English Liturgy from his .pocket,
and burnt it with much ceremony in the market place ; calling him
Papist, and it the Mass-book in English, &c.
How they came upon Mr Simpson, minister at Gastown ; took him
out bare-headed also, caused the sexton carry his morning-gown to
the most publick place of the village, (tor he had put his canonical
gowns and cassicks out of the way, and it was necessary a gown should
be torn; that was an essential formality,) where they caused him to
put it on, and then rent it in pieces. How thereafter they carried him
to a river, forced him to wade through it at one of the deepest places ;
then turned his face northward, saying to him, " get you gone to your
own country, and see, for your life, you never look southward or west
ward again."
How they carried Mr Miln, minister at Gawdir, his gown, being
from home himself, in procession to the churchyard, made a long
harangue concerning their zeal for God's glory, and the good old
cause ; after that, a long prayer, then rent the gown ; and concluded
the solemnity with a voUy of shot, &c. Could there be greater dis
honour done to Jesus Christ, and his holy religion ?
How they smote Mr White, minister at Balingtre, on the face, with
the butt end of a musquet, for speaking to them with his cap on, as
they worded it, though it was in his own house ; and the fellow that
said and did so, was a mean pedler. How they thi-ust at his heart
with a naked sword, so that both his<;loaths and skin were pierced;
though such was the good providence of God, what through the throng
that was in the room, and what through the distance the miscreant
stood at, whs made the thrust, the woand was not dangerous. And
how they beat his wife most rudely, though at that time she was so
big with child that she had pass'd her reckoning. ,
How, in a mighty storm of frost and snow, they took Mr Brown,
minister at Kells in Galloway, then residing at Newtoun; carried
him to the mercat place about four of the clock in the morning, tied
him to a cart, set his face to the weather, &c. In which posture he
had certainly, died, if a poor woman, whose heart, it seems, was made
of softer metal, had not cast some deaths about him.
How they came on Mr Francis Ross, minister at Renfrew, and
threw out his wife the third day after she was brought to bed, toge
ther with her tender infant.

How they treated Mr Guthrie, minister at Keir, in a stormy, rainy
day, turning all his family and furniture out of doors, although three
of his children were dangerously sick ; one of a fever, the other
two of the small pox ; and how two of them died upon that treat
ment. How, by their rudenesses to Mr Skinner, minister at Dajy, they
first frighted his daughter, a young gentlewoman, aged abont twenty,
into a fever ; and then returning, after five or six days, while she
was in the rage of it, how they turn'd her out of her bed, pretending
to search for arms, though it was very well known the whole country
over, the good man's genius never lay that way ; and so disturbed her,
that she died raving ; amongst her last words, repeating these over
and over, " Oh ! these wicked men will mnrther my father.''
How they contrived and carried on the tumults at Edinburgh and
Glasgow : what letters were sent to some ; what citations in the
name of the rabble to others, commanding them to remove from
their churches and manses, under the highest penalties. What
work would it require, I say, to digest all these, and the like
instances, fully and particularly ? Perhaps the world may sometime
see it done ; but it is enough for my purpose, at present, to tell you,
that these were their common methods ; and by such means, in a
very short time, more than two hundred were thrust from their
churches and dwellings. Do not think I am imposing on you ; what
I have affirmed, can be so attested, that greater moral evidence can ba
had for nothing.

A Just and True Account how sadly the Regular Ministers
within the Presbytery of Ayr have been Treated since Christmas
last.Upon Christmas day about ninety armed men forced the minister of
Cumnock out of his chamber into the churchyard, where they dis
charged him to preach any more there under the highest peril ; they
took upon them to command him to remove from his manse, or dwell
ing house, and his gleib, and not to uplift his stipend thenceforth ;
after which they rent his gown in pieces over his head. They made a
preface to their discourse to this purpose : that this they did not as
statesmen, nor as churchmen, but by violence and in a military way
of reformation.
In this manner, in the same place, and at the same time used they
the minister of Authinleck, who dwelleth in Cumnock. -
From Cumnock the foresaid day they marched to Machlin, and,
missing the minister, were rude beyond expression to his wife, and
finding the English Liturgy, burnt it as a superstitious and Popish
book ; thereafter they went to the churchyard, where they publickly
discharged the minister from his office and interest there.
Upon the twenty-seventh of December the more considerable part
of the foresaid number went to Galston, where they apprehended the
minister, and, taking him out of his house into the churchyard, they
rent his cloak, missing his gown, and thereafter forced him to wado
upon and down through the water of Irwine for a considerable time in
a severe frost.
Upon the said day they went to Rickarton : whence they brought
th« minister of the place to Torbolton ; where they kept, for a whole

r>9
night, the ministers of these two parishes under a guard ; and next
morning brought ihem to the churchyard of Torbolton, where they
rent the minister of Torboltons canonical coat, and put the one half
of it about each of the ministers necks, commanding the church officer
of the place to lead them thereby per vices as malefactors, discharging
thera from all exercise of the ministry, and from their houses, gleibs,
and stipends, under the highest peril.
Upon the eleventh of January 1689, the first minister of Air re
ceived a written paper commanding him and all his brethren to leave
their ministry against the fifteenth under the pain of death ; and
because he did not regard this, there came to his house, upon the
fifteenth, about eight of the o'clock at night, eleven armed men of
them, who commanded him, under pain of death, to preach no more in
the church of Air till the Princes further order. And at the same
rate did they treat his colleague that same night.
Much about the same time these armed men with their associats
went throughout all the ministers houses within that presbytery, and
discharged them any more to exercise their ministry, and appointed
them to remove from their manses, or parsonage houses and gleibs,
aud discharged them to meddle with their stipends under the penalty
aforesaid. So that now the most of the clergy through force and
violence have left the countrey ; none in it undertaking their pro
tection ; but all the rabble of it in arms against them. And to
compleat their miseries those who are indebted to them refuse to pay
even so much as may carry them to places of shelter ; which exposeth
them to the greatest hardships imaginable.
To obviate the impudent denial of these things the under subscribers
are able and shall (if called) in due time produce sufficient proof of the
whole, and that both by writing and witnesses. Given under our
hands at Edenburgh upon the twenty and sixth day of January one
thousand six hundred eighty-nine years.
GREGORY, parson of Aire.

WILL. IRWINE, minister at Kirk Michael.
FRAN. FORDYCE, parson of Cumnock.

A Brief Representation of the Sufferings of the regular Clergy
within the Presbytery of Glasgow.
To omit the -violences have been threatned them, the contempts
have been cast upon them, and the innumerable discouragements they
have generally been (i.e. happened to them) trysted with, from Papists
on the one hand, (some of them having been in great hazard of being
turned out of their places for preaching against the corruptions of
Rome, as were easie to instance), and from Presbyterians on the other,
these several years by-past, tho they had law on their side, and have
still in their stations endeavoured to maintain truth, peace, and
order. Upon the great Revolution "that has happened lately, (notwithstand
ing his Highness the Prince of Orange has declared his great under
taking to be for the securing religion, and establishing our laws and
liberties,) the Dissenting brethren have wreckt their malice upon the
regular clergy, and in the manner following.

70
On Christmas day, anno 1688, under cloud of night, about five and
forty men in arms (all his neighbours, to the most part of whom he
had doue special acts of kindness,) came to Mr Gabriel Russel's house
the minister of Govean; they beat himself, his wife and daughter,
carried away all the utensils of the church, and the keys of the
doors, discharging him to preach there any more under the highest
perils. The same night another party came to Mr Robert Tinnie's house,
minister at Calchcart ; not finding himself at home, they turned his
wife, family, and furniture out of the (i. e. parsonage house) manse,
and tho it was about eleven at night, with great difficulty they suffered
the said Mrs Tinnie to stay in the stable ail night with her small
children ; of which children three have since been at the point of
death, through the fear and cold to which they then were exposed.
The next Lords day the indulged preacher in that part, possessed
himself of the pulpit ; they were his own parishioners who treated
Mr Tinnie so. The same night, and much after the same manner, Mr
Robert Bayle, minister at Carmunnock, was treated.
On December 27, anno 1688, Mr Hugh Blair, minister at Ruther-
glen, had all his furniture turned out of his house, the keys and
utensils of the church taken from him, &c.
About the same time Mr Gilbert Mushat, minister at Cumemald,
was treated much after the same manner.
Much about the same time, a party came to Mr David Milne,
minister at Cahder, and had rifled his house but that they were in
terrupted. But all this time the ministers in the city of Glasgow suffered
nothing, only letters were sent to them to forbear the exercise of their
ministry, and their houses were search'd for arms, &c., till Jan. 17,
1689, being Thursday, on which 'tis usual for thera to have publick
worship and sermon, a great multitude of people, for the most part
women, came to church, with a design to have drag'd the minister out
of the pulpit ; but he (by the advice of some of his brethren who were
there) forbearing to go into the church, and endeavouring to retire
without noise, was fallen upon most barbarously, beaten, and had his
gown and other deaths torn in many pieces, altbo he had been one of
the ministers of the said city twenty-four years, and lived most Chris-
tiauly and inoffensively.
The same day the same rabble went to the house of Mr Alexander
George, minister of the Barony Church of Glasgow, broke his doors
with great hammers ; and notwithstanding he was at that time tyed
to his bed by a very dangerous sickness, they thrust into his chamber,
and had undoubtedly drag'd him from his bed, and perhaps murthered
him, had not the provost of the city, with eight or ten men, come to
his relief.
On the lords day thereafter, being the 20th of January, there was
no sermon in any ef the churches of the city. On the 22th, a copy of
a letter was sent to each minister in the city, the tenour whereof
followeth : —
" We are credibly informed that our pretended Provost Walter
Gibsone, and his malignant associates, are upon a design of ha'ving you
restored to your churches, sometime this or the next week, but if you
will take advice and prevent your own trouble and perl a )S luiae, do
not listen to their motion, for they are but laying a snare for you,
without reflecting upon their o'wn being taken in it themselves :
Therefore consider what you are doing, and if you desire safety, foi be ir
to attempt anything suggested tpm that head, for assure your selves,
that it will not be now the female rabble you have to engage with, but

71
must resolve in all time coming for such a guard as will be so sufficient
and diligent, as to protect you, not only in the church (which even we
doubt oij, but also in your houses, and that both by night and by day ; if
you take this warning you will both save your selves, .and prevent the
effusion of much blood, but if not, stand 'to your iJeril, which in all
probability will be more formidable than that of Mr Jlilne. Let this
be a sufficient warning to you from 'those who by this desire to exoner
themselves." We doubt not but there are other instances of the foresaid violence
within our bounds before this time ; but because of our present dis
persion we cannot give any more particular accounts only as to the
instances above-named, we can make them fully appear when called
to it : In testimony whereof we subscribe their presents at Edenburg,
Jan. 26, 1689.
AL. GEORGE,
Minister of the gospel at the Barony Church of Glasgow.
JOHN SAGE,
One of the ministers in the City of Glasgow.

A True Account of that Interruption that was made of the Service
of God on Sunday last, being the Seventeenth of February 1689, at
the Cathedral of Glasgow, by the Presbyterians, both from the Hills
and the Meeting-houses, to the Contempt of the Princes Decla
ration. As soon as his Highness the Prince of Orange's declaration was
proclaimed at the Mercat-cross of Glasgow, for the preservation of
the peace of the kingdom, and the maintenance of the free exercise of
religion, as it was established in October last. The magistrates and
ministers of the city assembled themselves, in order to the laying
down such fit and united methods as would give punctual obedience
to his Highness's declaration, and procure the publick and undis
turbed exercise of their religion, which has now been interrupted
these four or five weeks by-past, by the illegal unchristian outrages
of the rabble in this place. And after a prudent deliberation about
the present state of affairs, it was the result of their counsels that ,
the service of God should be restored on the Sunday immediately
subsequent to the publication of the Prince's declaration, being
tiie 17th of February, according to the usual and legal method
by ringing of bells, and the publick use of all other accustomed
solemnities. But for the greater security of the exercise of reli
gion, and the preservation of the peace of the town, the magistrates
thought themselves obliged in conscience and honour, to go to Thomas
Crawfurd, younger, merchant, being then captain of the guard at
that time, and one of the chief commanders of that party in this
place (that keep up themselves in contempt of the law of the king
dom, and the Prince's^declaration, to the terror of the magistrates and
all good and peaceable people in this place, and to require the said
Thomas Crawfurd to lay d»wn his arms and dismiss his company;
which accordingly was performed by Bailie James Gibson, he (being
the chief magistrate in absence of the Provost) (i. e. Major) telling
him at the same time, that he would provide for the peace and

72
•ecurily of the town in obedience to the Prince's declaration. Upon
the absolute refusal of obedience unto this command by the said
Thomas Crawfurd, Bailie Gibson took instruments in a publick nottars
hands, how far he had his duty to the law of the kingdom and the
Prince's declaration, and how far the said Thomas Crawfurd, the
pretended captain of the guard, did despise and contemn them both.
After this intercourse between the foresaid Bailie and Thomas Craw
furd, both those parties of the Presbyterians, that go to the hills and
the meeting-houses, began to whisper about their illegal and bloody
designs against the ministers of the town, aud that great body of the
people that keep still very stedfastin frequenting the assemblies of the
church, threatning publickly all kinds of persecution unto them in the
legal exercise of their religion. On the Sunday morning the promis
cuous rabble gathered themselves together upon the streets, and
hindered the ringing of some of tlie usual bells for calling the people
to church. Yet the magistrates thought fit to connive at the first
insolence, being willing upon any terms to have the exercise of their
religion, and give obedience to the Prince's declaration. But the
more moderation the magistrates shewed on this occasion, the more the
rabble were inraged, publickly threatning the people as they went to
church, to pull them out by the ears. And particularly, they seeing a
certain minister going to church, they pursued him with sticks and
clubs, but he taking a house escap'd their fury. When the magistrates
were come near the church, they found it surrounded with a promis
cuous rout : Upon this they desired the rude people to go home in
peace, but they returned scolding and bloody language, and flinging
from them their cloaks and plaides, that is mantles, they gave the
assault with staves and battoons in their hands unto the magistrates ;
and particularly one of them giving a severe blow to John Bell, one of
the late bailies, and at this time in company -with the magistrates.
Upon which unsufterable and scandalous attack, the magistrates gave
order to the towns servants and officers, to clear their way to the
church, and beat off the rabble ; which being effected, the magistrates,
together with all the people, entered peaceably into the church, seating
themselves according to their ranks and qualities in the usual postures of
devotion in which the service of God is performed in our church. After
prayers were ended, towards the middle part of the sermon, the fore-
mentioned Thomas Crawfurd, the pretended captain of the guard, came
into the church, and cry'd aloud to the people, that the town was in
arms. He was answered, that five or six hundred people of the best
quality in town were assembled in church, to the service of God,
according to law and the Prince's last declaration, that they were naked
men without arms or the least intentions to make any resistance :
and if the town was in arms, he was more concerned to look to it
than they, he being the pretended captain of the guard. And likewise
he was told, that if the people in church had designed any opposition
to such as might disturb them in the exercise of their religion, they
would have appeared in an armed posture (which out of a due respect
to the house of God and the Prince's declaration they did forbear to
do ;) and then he should have found them too strong for any party that
durst have assaulted them ; but they came not thither to fight, but to
serve God. The parson continued preaching until he finished his
sermon. Towards the latter end of the prayers after sermon, the
meeting-houses being dismiss'd, and joyning the hill party that appear
ed by this tirae in arms upon the streets, and together with the
company that was upon the guard, they formed themselves in a great
body, and then marched off under the conduct of the laird of Carsland,
taking their way straight to the cathedral church ; when they came to
it, they fired both upon the people that had fled to the pinnacles and but-

73
tresses of the church, and through the door, where there was a little
boy dangerously wounded on the face ; but at last they broke open tho
doors of the church, and searching diligently for tho parson they found
him : They were desired by the magistrates to dismiss the armed men
and go in peace, but they refused it, telling, they would have out those
people that beat off the women and the men from the church-door
upon the first uproar. They were answered, that the disorders were
begun by the rabble against the Prince's declaration ; and that the
magistrates could not, without doing infinite injury to the service of
God, the honour of the Prince, and the authority of government, for
bear commanding the officers and towns servants to beat off the rabble
that opposed their entry into the church. And to this it was subjoyned,
that if they would lay down their arms, or go home in peace, and
forbear the encouraging and protecting of the rabble in those uproars,
they could return in the same peaceable way from the church that
they came into it. But this they absolutely refused to do, telling us,
they could not desert their sisters the women, that by this time were
assembled in great numbers upon the streets and in the churchyard.
After this they took up the names of the people of the best quality
in church, and then they hurried us out by fives and sixes at several
doors of the cathedral, and so exposed us to the fury of the rabble,
which we had escap'd if they had permitted us to go out in a body.
Others of us they pretended to conduct by guards, but carried us no
further than into the very middle of the rabble. The whole congre
gation being thus maliciously dissipated, very few of them did escape
-without wounds or blows ; and particularly the Lord Boyd was rudely
treated, and had his sword taken from him. Sir John Bell had above
a hundred snow-balls thrown at hira. The Laird of Borrowfield
aud his lady, together with his two brothers, James and William
Walkinshawes, were five or six several times beaten to the ground.
James Corbett was very dangerously wounded in the head with the
stroke of a syth. George Graham, one of the late bailies of the town,
was deeply cut on the head in two places. Doctor Wright aud his
lady, and together with them her mother and sisters, and several
other women, were very roughly handled and beaten. Mrs Anna
Paterson daughter to the archbishop of the place, Mrs Margaret
Fleiming, and several other gentlewomen were cruelly pinch 'd after
their deaths were torn off them. There was scores of others severely
beaten and bruised, which would be tedious to make mention of here,
but only this we must observe, there was a certain carpenter, who was
so dangerously wounded (so that he lyeth now beyond hopes of reco
very) by four armed men that promised to conduct him through the
r.ibble, and to whose protection he innocently committed himself,
This is a true account of what pass'd upon Sunday last, being tho 17th
of February 1689, which I, as magistrate of Glasgow, in absence of my
Lord Provost, give under my hand as truth.
JAMES GIBSONE.
For the further testification of the premises, we under subscribers
attest the same, JO. GILLHAGIE.
PATRICK BELL.

J- the like.

74
A List of the Episcopal Ministers deprived by the Committee of
Estates, in May 1689, as follows.
May 2. Mr James Wauch, minister of Leith ; deprived for not
1689. reading the proclamation enjoined by the states,
April 11, 1689, and not obeying the same.
Mr John Somervail, minister at Cramond,
May 3.89. Mr Arthur Miller, minister at Innerask,
May 6.89. Mr George Barckly, minister at Mordingtpn,
May 8.89. Mr Alex. Irwin, minister at Innerkeithing,
Mr And. Auchenfleck, ministerat Newbottle,
Mr David Lammie, minister at Carrington,
May 10.89. Mr George Hendry, minister at Corstorphin,
Mr Rob. Ramsey, minister at Prestonpans,
May 11.89. Dr Rich. Waddel, archdean of S. Andrews,
Mr John Wood, minister at S. Andrews,
Mr Robert Wright, minister at Culross,
Mr Allen Young, minister there.
May 14.89. Mr Alexander Hamilton, minister at Stenton ; deprived
for not reading the proclamation, nor praying for the
King and Queen ; and for expressions reflecting upon
the honour of K. William and the states.
Mr Alexander Gumming, minister at Liberton, deprived
for not reading the proclamation, and not praying for
K. William and Q. Mary.
May 16.89. Mr John Malters, minister at Seres, 1
May 17.89. Mr Scrirager, minister at Currio, > the like.
Mr John "Tailorj minister at Drone, J
Turned out afterwards by the Council, &e.
August 9, 1689.
1. Mr John Lumbsden, minister at Lauder; for not reading the
proclamation of the states, and not praying for their Majesties, and
for praying for the late King; and that God would give him the
necks of his enemies, and hearts of his subjects. To prove which,
depositions of the witnesses were adduced ; and he acknowledged at
the bar, that he had not read the proclamation, and had only prayed
for King and Queen in general terras. Deprived of his benefice, his
church declared vacant ; and he was ordained to remove from his
benefice at Martinmas. August 15, 1689.
2. Mr Patrick Trant, minister at Linlithgow ; for not reading and
not praying ; and for praying for the late King, and that God would
restore the banished ; being moreover not only scandalous to all well-
affected persons, but a very great encourager to the disaffected. Ab
sent, and holden as confest. Whereby certification was granted against
him, and he deprived in manner aforesaid.
3. Mr Robert Stewart, minister at Balwither; cited to answer
several things that may be laid to his charge, conform to the in
formation given in to the council board : Absent. Whereupon
certification was granted against him, and he was ordained to be
denounced; and in the mean time deprived of his benefice, and
discharged from preaching, or exercising any other part of the mini
sterial function within that parish.
4. Mr John Barclay, minister at Faulkland ; for not reading, and for
praying for the late King. Present ; and acknowledged that ho had

not read, nor prayed for their Majesties. Deprived, and discharged
from preaching in that parish.
5. Mr David Murray, minister at Blackford ; for not reading and
not praying, and not obeying the thanksgiving, and for hindering
the reading the proclamation for a collection for the French and
Irish Protestants. Present ; and acknowledged that he did not read
nor pray, nor keep the thanksgiving, nor read the proclamation.
Deprived. August 16, 1689.
6. Mr David Gnilo, minister of the West Kirk ; as being imposed
on the paroch by the bishop ; and for his acting as a spy, and^ other
wise as an intelligencer to the Castle of Edinburgh, then besieged ;
exposing himself to the most dangerous places, without fear ; giving
signs, and occasioning great shooting ; calling persons well-affected,
whores and rogues ; wearing pistols under his coat : And was one of
the principal informers against Sir Patrick Nisbet of Dean, who, for
his frivolous words against him, was fined in L.500 sterling in the
late government. It was sufficiently proven that he called one of his
parishioners a damned whore : And he acknowledged that he
married persons, and baptized children in the West Kirk, several
times since the order of council, discharging him to preach at that
place. Finds that the marrying and baptizing of persons, being a
part of the ministerial function, that he has contravened the order of
council, and there fore was deprived, utsupra.
August 22, 1689.
7. Mr Patrick Midletoun, minister at Leslie ; for not reading and
not praying for their Majesties, and praying for the late King. Pre
sent ; and acknowledged his not reading, and not praying for their
Majesties. Deprived.
8. Mr Samuel Nimmo, minister at CoUingtoun ; for not reading
and not praying ; and for praying for the late King. Witnesses
aduced for proving his being constantly hindered by force ; and prov
ing accordingly. Acquitted. August 23, 1689.
9. Mr Robert Gordoun, minister at Abercom ; for not reading, and
not praying ; and praying for the late King. Present ; and acknow
ledged his not reading and not praying. Whereupon he was deprived :
And upon his desiring that the libel might be proven, he was, because
of his disingenuity, committed to prison during pleasure.
10. Mr Alexander Burnetj minister of the Canongate; for not
reading and not praying, and praying for the late King; aud not
observing the thanksgi-ving, and the collection for the French and
Irish Protestants. To prove which, depositions of the witnesses were
aduced, and he acknowledged he did not read the said proclamation,
by reason he preached that day for the Dean by order, and did not
read. So that it was found proven, that he has not read the pro
clamation, nor never prayed for their Majesties, except one Sabbath ;
and was deprived. August 29, 1689.
11. Mr John Auchinfleck, minister at Largo; for not reading and
not praying, and praying for the late King. Present ; acknowledges
the not reading and not praying. Deprived.
12. Mr David Barely, minister at Stramiglo ; for not reading and

7«
not praying, and praying for the late King. Present ; acknowledges .
the not reading and not praying. Deprived.
13. Mr William Galbreith. minister at Jedburgh ; for not reading
and not praying, and praying for the late King. Present ; and acknow
ledged. Deprived.
14. Mr John Barcklay, minister at Ketle ; for not reading and not
praying ; and not only praying for the late King, but also that God
would confound all his enemies ; and that he hoped to see the late
King in his throne ; and for his running always out of the church
when his reader read the public papers mentioned in the libel.
Present; and acknowleded his not reading and not praying. De
prived. 15. Mr John Melvill, minister at Enes; for not reading and not
praying. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.
10. Mr Andrew Darling, minister at Stitchell; for not reading and
not praying, and for not observing the thanksgiving, and not reading
the proclamation for the collection. Present ; and acknowledged the
not reading and not praying. Deprived.
17. Mr Thomfis Somervail, minister at Cavers; for not reading
and not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and
acknowledged the not praying aud reading. Deprived.
18. Mr Francis Scott, minister at Hassenden ; for not reading
and praying for the late King. Present ; acknowledged, ut supra.
Deprived. 19. Mr John Hepburn, minister at Ersletown; for not reading
and praying, and for other scandalous misdemeanors libelled. Pre
sent ; acknowledged his not reading and not praying. Deprived.
20. Mr James Strachan, minister at Fagan; for not reading and
not praying. Present ; acknowledges that he prayed not, expressis
terminus, for their Majesties ; and that the proclamation was offered
him when he was saying the blessing, and that he did not, nor has not
yet read the same. Deprived.
21. Mr James Adamson, minister at Bederule ; for not reading and
not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; acknowledges
the not reading and praying. Deprived.
22. llr Andrew Guild, minister at Northberwick ; for not reading
and not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present, and
alledges that the proclamation came not to his hands in due time ; but
that upon hearing hereof he did immediately pray for their Majesties,
and observed the thanksgiving; and being removed and called in,
declared, that he had then scruples, and was not yet free to read the
proclamation. Deprived.
23. Mr William Hay, minister at Lintoun ; for not reading and not
praying ; and for praying for the late King, and drinking his health.
Absent ; holden as confest. Certification granted against him, aud he
was deprived.
24, 25. Mr Henry Pittcaime, minister at Logic, and Mr David
Balfour, his helper ; for not reading and not praying, and praying for
the late King : Mr Henry Pittcaime absent, and holden as confest ;
and Mr David present, -who acknowledged the not reading and not
praying. Certification granted against Mr Henry, and he deprived;
and Mr David discharged from preaching, or exercising any part of
the ministerial function within that parish,
August 29, 1689.
26. Mr John Cockburne, minister at Ormistown ; for not reading
and not praying; and for praying for the late King's restoration, and

1 1
confusion of his enemie'. Present ; acknowledged the not reading
and praying. Deprived.
27. Mr Alexander Kerr, minister at Easter- Weems ; for not reading
and not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and
acknowledged it. Deprived.
28, 29. Mr Alexander Lundie and Mr William Wilson, ministers
in Coupar of Fife ; for not reading and for not praying, and for pray
ing for the late King ; and not observing the day of thanksgiving,
and for not reading the proclamation for the collection. Present;
acknowledged, ut supra. Both deprived.
30. Mr Robert Norie, minister at Dundee; for not reading and
praying. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.
31. Mr Andrew Nauchly, minister at Stou ; for not reading and not
praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and acknow
ledged that he knew the proclamation was in the reader's hands the
Sabbath morning, and that he did not then nor yet read the same, nor
prayed in the terms thereof. Deprived.
32. Mr James Dempster, minister at Auchtermuchty ; for not
reading and not praying; and for praying for the late King's
restauration, and confusion to his enemies ; and for not obserN-ing
the thanksgiving, and not reading the proclamation for the collec
tion. , Present ; and acknowledged his not reading and not praying.
Deprived. 33. Mr Thomas Macbean, minister at Gordoun ; for not reading
and not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and
acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
34. Mr Henry Christie, minister at Kinross ; for not reading and
not praying ; and praying for the late King's restauration, and con
fusion to his eneraies ; for not observing the thanksgiving, nor reading
the proclamation for the collection. Present ; and acknowledged not
reading nor praying. Deprived.
35. Mr Charles Macinarn, alias Mac-Fingue, minister at Erwall ;
for not reading, and for the other things immediately above. Present ;
acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
36. Mr John Cameron, minister at Kincardin ; for not reading and
not praying, and employing one who prayed for the late King James ;
aud for not observing the thanksgiving, and for not reading the
proclamation for the collection ; and for bringing down the rebels
to rob his parishioners : And he said, if G-od would not give
him amends (t. e. revenge) of them, he would make the Devil do
it. Present ; and acknowledged the not reading and praying. De
prived. 37. Mr William Layng, minister at Ligertwood : foi his not read
ing aud not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and
acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
38. Mr Androu Dou, minister at Crighton ; for not reading and
not praying, and for praying for the late King ; not observing
the thanksgiving nor the collection for the French and Irish Pro
testants. Present ; acknowledged the not reading and praying.
Deprived. 39. Mr Lewis Gourdon, minister at Kirkaldie ; for not reading and
not praying. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.
40. Mr George Scheils, minister at Prestonhaugh ; for not reading
and not praying, and for praying for the late King, and not obser-ving
the thanksgiving. "Absent; holden as confest. Certification against
him granted, and he deprived. F

78
September 3, 1689.
41. Mr James Ross, minister at Mintzie; for not reading and not
praying. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.
42. Mr Patrick Walker, minister at Langton ; for not reading nor
pr.iylng, and praying for the late King. Present ; and acknowledged
his not reading or praying. Deprived.
43, 44. Mr Adam Berckly and Mr David Anderson, ministers
at Perth; for not reading and not praying, and praying for the late
King, and for not observing the day of thanksgiving. Both present ;
and acknowledged their not reading and praying. Deprived.
45. Mr George Berckly, minister at Sprouston ; for not reading and
not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and acknow
ledged, ut supra. Deprived.
46. Mr John Cook, minister at Eccles ; for not reading and not
praying, and absenting himself the day appointed. Present; and
acknowledged. Deprived.
47. Mr James Wright, minister at Alloway ; for not reading and
not praying, as the proclamation was tendered him to be read in
the church the same day. Present; and acknowledged, ut supra.
Deprived. 48. Mr William Speed, minister at Eduem ; for not reading and
not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and acknow
ledged, ut supra. Deprived.
49. Mr Robert Calder, minister at Nenthorn ; for not reading and
not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and acknow
ledged, ut supra. Deprived.
50. Mr William Bui lo, minister at Stobo ; for not reading and not
praying, and for praying for the late King ; and as a person im
posed upon the paroch by the Bishop, who would give him no entry
at the church, until be -went in at the window; and he had
no hearers these two years ; and as being a scandalous person.
Present ; and acknowledged his not reading and not praying. De
prived. 51. Mr John Chisholme, minister at Lisly ; for not reading and not
praying, and praying for the late King; and not observing the
thanksgiving and collection. Present; and acknowledged his not
reading and not praying. Deprived.
52. Mr James Adaipson, minister at Stmprin ; for not reading and
not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; and acknow
ledged, ut Mipro. Deprived.
63. Mr William Gray, minister at Dance; for not reading and
praying, and not observing the thanksgiving-day.' Absent; holden
as confest. Certification, and deprived.
54. Mr James Gray, minister at Kelso ; for not reading and not
praying, and praying for the late- King. Absent; holden as confest.
Certification, and deprived.
55. Mr John Blair, minister at Scoon; for not reading and not
praying, and praying for the late. King ; and for saying, that the
defeat of his Majesties forces at Gilliechrankie was the best news
in the world : And upon the death of the Viscount of Dundee, that
the greatest bulwark for the Protestant religion, and against Popery,
was gone. Present ; and denying the last two, and declaring that he
had prayed for their Majesties King William and Queen Mary ; and
that he made search for the proclamation, but got it not in due
time ; and albeit he were deprived, he would still pray for their
Majesties. Acquitted ; aud ordained to read the proclamation the
next Sabbath.

79
6C. Mr John Ogilvie, minister at Collace ; for not re iding and not
pra) ing. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.
September 4, 1689.
57. Mr Paul Gelly, minister Avith ; for his not reading and not
praying, and for his treasonable inveying against the government,
and praying for the restauration of the late King, exhorting his hearers
to pray so in private ; and for saying, that then he expected a
blessed reformation, and that they had only gotten wicked tyranny
and ungodly rulers to govern them ; and that the people had no
security oif life or fortune. The defender present, probation aduced.
Finds the libel proven, aud therefore deprives the defender.
58. Mr John Monro, minister at Sterling ; for not reading and
not praying, and praying for the late King. Present; aud declared
that he had still prayed for their Majesties, since the proclamation
of estates, which came not to his hands in due time, and that he
had made search for the same, and had no scruple to read. Acquitted.
59, 60. Mr James Grifin, minister at Dunfermling, and Mr Simon
Couper, minister there ; for not reading and not praying, and fi r
saying, that when the news came of the defeat of Gilliechrankie, that
no less could come of them for rebelling against their lawful King.
The defenders present ; probation aduced by witnesses. Finds not the
libel against Mr Simon proven ; and in regard that Mr Grifin declared,
that the proclamation came not to his hand, and that he had no scruple
to read it, both were acquitted.
61. Mr Thomas Marishall, minister at Carnock ; for not reading
and praying, and praying for the late King, aud hoped to see him
in his throne before Lammass. Present; and acknowledged the not
reading and praying for their Majesties. Deprived,
62. Mr David Fairbairne, minister at Huinning ; for not reading
and not praying, and not observing the day of thanksgiving, nor
suffering any collection to be made for the French and Irish Protest
ants. Present; and acknowledged, «« supra. Deprived.
63. Mr John Langlanes, minister at Hawick ; for not reading and
praying, and for praying for the late King Present ; and acknow
ledged his not reading and praying. Deprived.
64. Mr William Milles, minister at Flisk ; for not reading and
praying, nor observing the day of thanksgiving, and suffering his
servants to labour thereon. Present ; and acknowledged his not
reading and praying. Deprived.
65. Mr Will. Arnot, minister at Abdie ; for not reading, and pray
ing for the late King, that God would restore him to his throne ; and
for not observing the days appointed the thanksgiving, and the collec
tion. Present ; and acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
66. Mr William Grant, minister at Newburgh ; for his not reading
and praying, and praying for the late King, and not observing the day
of thanksgiving. Present ; and acknowledged his not reading and
praying. Deprived.
67. Mr James Seaton, minister at Creuch ; for not reading and pray
ing, and praying for the late King ; and for not observing the day of
thanksgiving, suffering his servants to work that day, and impeding
the contribution for the French and Irish Protestants. Present ;
acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
68. Mr 'Thomas Paterson, minister at Borthwick ; for his not read
ing, and praying for the late King. Present ; acknowledged bis not
praying and not reading. Deprived.
69. Mr Robert Bannerman, minister at Newton; for not reading
and praying. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.

80
70. Mr Matth. Erwing, minister at Houdran ; for not prayintf and
reading, and praying for the late King. Present; and acknowledged
his not reading and praying. Deprived.
71. Mr Alexander Grant, minister at Farce ; for not reading and
praying. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.
71. Mr Walter Stirling, minister at Badenoch ; for his not reading
and praying. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.
73. Mr John Wenziel, minister at Dennio ; for his not reading and
praying, and praying for the late King and Queen, and for their
restauration,- and shame and confusion to their dethroners. Present ;
acknowledged his not reading and praying. Deprived.
74. Mr Robert Arthburnet, minister at Cranston; for his not
reading and not praying. Present ; and aoknowledging. Deprived :
And in respect he was ordered to be denounced, for resetting in his
house John Hay, after he was in the rebels army, was ordained to be
carried to prison.
75. Mr Andrew Florber, minister at Cameron ; for his not reading
and not praying, and praying for the late King James. Present ; and
acknowledged his not reading and praying. Deprived.
76. Mr William Nesmith, minister at Eickfoord ; for his not read
ing and not praying and praying for the late King's restauration,
and destruction to his enemies, and that God would take the
usurper out of the way. Present; and acknowledging, ut supra.
Deprived. 77. Mr Alexand. Williamson, minister at Tilliallan ; for not read
ing and not praying, nor observing the day of thanksgiving. Present ;
and acknowledging, ut supra. Deprived.
78. Mr Thomas Rutherfoord, minister at Sudar ; for his not read
ing and not praying. Present ; and acknowledging the same. De
prived. 79. Mr James Arthburnet, minister at Dysert ; for his not reading
and not praying, and for praying for the late King. Present ; acknow
ledging his not reading nor praying. Deprived.
80. Mr G«orge Patersone, minister at Dersie ; for his not reading
and not praying, and for discharging the presenter to say, God save
King William and Queen Mary, when he was ending the reading the
proclamation concerning the baggage horses, aud forbidding him to
read it till he was out of the kirk. Present ; acknowledging his not
reading nor praying. Deprived.
81. Mr James Weems, minister at St Leonards ; for his not reading
and not praying, and praying for the late King. Present; and
acknowledges his not reading and praying. Deprived.
82. Mr Alex. Auchenleck, minister at Dunlogo ; for his not read-
• ing and not praying, and praying for the late King's happy restaura
tion, and confusion of his enemies ; and for not observing the
thanksgiving nor contribution. Absent ; holden as confest. Certifi
cation granted against him, and he deprived.
83. Mr Alex. Sutherland, minister at Larbor and Dunipace ; for his
not reading and not praying, and joining the rebels. Absent ; helden
as confest. Certification. Deprived.
84. Mr Robert Glasford, minister at Auchterderron ; for his not
reading and not praying, and praying in a disdainful manner for King
William and Queen Mary, as those whom the states had set over us
for King and Queen. Present ; declared the proclamation came not
to his hands ; and if he had got the same by a private hand, he would
have read it without scruple; and that he had prayed for King
William and Queen Mary ; albeit not in the same terms at first, yet

81
thereafter he prayed for them in the terms of the proclamation.
Acquitted. September 8, 1689.
85. Mr George Chalmers, minister at Kenoway ; for not reading
and praying, and saying to some of the Presbyterian perswasion, that
there were three papers lying in the Parliament-llouse, which was
like to cause tho members of parliament to sheath their swords in one
aiiothers sides. Present ; acknowledging his not reading the procla
mation ; and being allowed till to-morrow to advise if ho would read
the same, and being again called, dedared, he had not the freedom to
read the same. Deprived.
86. Mr John Falconer, minister at Carnbee; for his not reading
and praying. Absent; holden as confest. Certification granted
against him, and he deprived.
87. Mr Alex. Douglas, minister at Coldingham ; for his not
reading and praying. Present ; and acknowledging the same. De
prived. 88. Mr Thomas Auchenleck, minister at Anstruther- Wester ; for
his not reading, rnd praying for the late King. Present ; acknowledging
his not reading nor praying. Deprived.
89. Mr John Berkley, minister at Cockburnspath ; for not reading
and praying. Present ; and acknowledging the same. Deprived.
90. Mr John Lydell, minister at Opkirk ; for his not reading the
proclamation and praying for their Majesties; and saying, that he
would never pray for them as long as his blood was warm. Present ;
and acknowledging his not reading and praying. Deprived.
91. Mr John Berkley, minister at Edean ; for his not reading, and
praying for the late King. Present; and acknowledging his not
reading and praying. Deprived.
92. Mr Alex. "Wilson, minister at Elie ; for his not reading and
praying. Present ; acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
93. Mr David Baine, minister at Kinglasse ; for his not reading
and praying, and not reading the proelamation, albeit the same
was tendered to him in the church. Present ; declared that the
proclamation came not to his hands; but that he did still, and
would continue to pray in the terms thereof, albeit deprived. Ac
quitted. 94. Mr Andrew Bruce, minister at Pittenwyme; for his not reading
and praying. Present ; and declared that he had still prayed for their
Majesties from the beginning; and that he had intimate from bis
pulpit the tenour of the said proclamation, after he had seen the
same. Acquitted. September 10, 1689.
95. Mr John Lamie, minister at Eccloisgrage ; for his not read
ing and praying, and jraying for the late King, and keeping
correspondence with the V. of Dundee, and sending private persons
to acquaint the rebels of Sir John Laniers being on his march to
attaque them. Present ; acknowledging liis not reading and praying.
Deprived. 96. Mr Archibald Buchan, minister at Spoil ; for not reading and
praying, and for employing disaffected persons who were deprived, to
preach for him, who prayed for the late King. Present ; and acknow"
ledgedthe not reading and praying. Deprived.
97. Mr Richard Scolt, minister at Askirk; for his not reading and
praying. Present ; and acknowledged the same. Deprived.

82
98. Mr Henry Knox, minister at Bouden; for not reading and
praying, and for saying, that he had rather the Papist should gain
the day, than the Presbyterians. Present; and acknowledged the
same. Deprived.
99. Mr James Luntie, minister at Chimsyde ; for not reading and
praying. Present ; and acknowledged the same. Deprived.
100. Mr James Gordoun, minister at Rosneath ; for not reading
and praying. Absent ; holden as confest. Certification, aud de
prived. 101. Mr Alex. Ramsay, minister at the Old Church of Edinburgh;
for not reading and praying ; and for praying expresly for the late
King and bishops, after they were abolished by act of parliament.
The libel found proven by the depositions of the witnesses. And he
was deprived.
102. Mr John Midletoun, minister at Markinch; for not reading
and praying, and for praying for the late King. Found the libel not
proven by the depositions of the witnesses aduced. And he was
acquitted. 103. Mr John Park, minister at Cainden ; for not reading and
praying; for baptizing the children of scandalous persons, with
out demanding satisfaction therefore; and praying, that the walls
of the Castle might be as brass about D. Gordon. Finds the libel
not proven by the depositions of witnesses aduced. And he was
acquitted. September 12, 1689.
Mr John Gordon, minister at Aberladie ; for his not reading and
praying. Absent ; holden as confest. Certification, and deprived.
104. Mr John Beatoun, minister at Aytone ; for not reading and
praying ; and for praying for the late King, and not observing the
thanksgiving. Present; acknowledged his not reading and praying.
Deprived. 105. Mr David Stirling, minister at Heymouth ; for his not reading
and praying, and not observing the thanksgiving. Present ; acknow
ledged, ut supra. Deprived.
106. Mr James Gladstains, minister at Yettam; for not reading
and prajang ; and praying for the late King, and not observing the
thanksgiving. The libels found proven by the witnesses aduced.
Deprived. 107. Mr Alex. Hay, minister at Kineucher ; for not reading and
praying; and praying for the late King, and reflecting upon the
estates. Proven by witnesses. He was deprived.
108. Mr WiUiam Thomson, minister at Burroustonnesse ; for not
reading and praying, and not obser-ving the thanksgiving. Absent
holden as confest. Certification, and deprived.
September 17, 1689.
109. Mr Alex. Leslie, minister at Craill ; for not reading and
praying. Present; and aclcnowledged his not reading and praying.
Deprived. 110. Mr Andrew Hardie, minister at Forgondennie ; for not read
ing and praying. Present ; and acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
111. Mr David Spence, minister at Kircurd ; for not reading
and praying, and not observing the thanksgiving, and for not in
timating the proclamation for the French and Irish Protestants ; and
declared publickly, it was as lawful to go and hoar mass, as to hear a

83
sermon in a meeting-honse. Present ; and acknowledged, ut supra.
Deprived. 112. Mr William Methven, minister at Fogo ; for not reading and
praying. Present ; and acknowledging. Deprived.
113. Mr John Home, minister at Greenlau; for not read'ng and
praying, nor observing the thanksgiving. Present ; acknowledged,
ut supra. Deprived.
114. Mr John Balnaves, minister at Dnnbamy ; for not reading and
praying. Present ; and acknowledging. Deprived.
115. Mr John Stewart, minister at Waltoun ; for not reading and
praying. Present; acknowledging. Deprived.
116, Mr William Gairns, minister in the Tolbaath of Edinburgh:;
for not reading and praying, and al^enting himself the day of the read
ing the proclamation ; and prayed only, God have mercy upon King
William and Queen Mary, and the royal family ; and for not reading
the proclamation concerning the fast, which he contemptuously threw
down when offered to hira. Present; and acknowledging his not
reading the proclamation of the estates, nor the proclamation for tho
fast. Deprived.
117. Mr George Maitland, minister at Moffit; for not reading
and praying. Absent.; holden as coldest. Certification, and de
prived. 1 18. Mr James Ghalmers, minister at Kilpatrick-Fleming ; for
not reading and praying. Absent; holden as confest. Sentence,
ut supra.
119. Mr Robert Junkin, minister at Abemethie ; libel, ut supra.
Absent, ut supra. Sentence, ut supra.
120. Mr John Macquhom, minister at Dallmelingeton ; for not
reading and praying, and absenting himself from his church for two
years, without any violence. Absent ; holden, ut supra. Sentence,
ut si^ra.
d21. Mr John Wilkie, minister at Lintoun in Tivedale; for not
reading and praying. Absent; holden as confest. Sentence, ut
supra, 122. Mr George Macgrather, minister at Collace ; for not reading
and praying, and for praying for the late King's happy restauration to
the throne, and confusion of his enemies. Present; and acknow
ledging his not reading nor praying. Deprived.
123. Mr Thomas Strachan, minister at St Martins ; for not
reading nor praying, nor observing the thanksgiving, and a pro
clamation for a voluntary contribution to the French and Irish
Protestants ; and for praying for the late King and his happy
restauration, and confurfon of his enemies. Present; declared he
only read the proclamation, and prayed for their M^esties King
William amd Queen Mary, Sunday last after the citation. Deprived.
124. Dr James Kinnaries, minister at Selkirk; for not reading
and praying, and praying for the late King, that -G-od would restore
him to his wonted privileges ; and for keeping correspondence with
Papists, and not observing the fast. Witnesses aduced ; the libel not
found proven, and he was acquitted.
125. Mr William Alisone, minister at Kilbucho ;f or not reading and
praying, and praying for the late King's restauration. Witnesses
aduced, and the libel not found proven. Acquitted.
126. Mr James Murray, minister at Yarrou ; for not reading and
praying, and fisr delating such of his parochinei-s to the circuit, as
withdrew from his preachings in 1684. Witnesses aduced, found that
he had obeyed the proclamation. Acquitted-

84
September 19, 1689.
. 127. Mr John Smith, minister at Comrie; for not reading and
praying, and for praying for the late King's restauration: and for
paying, that our rulers are as Sodom, and judges as Gomorrah.
Present ; and acknowledging his not reading and praying. Deprived.
128. Mr William Murray, minister at Craft; for his not reading
and not praying, and for praying for the late King's restauration ; and
for causing to be read on the Sunday after the defeat of his Majesties
forces at Gilliechrankie, these notes in the 118th psalm, "This is
the day God made, in it we will joy triumphantly.'' Present ; and
acknowledging his not reading and praying. Deprived.
129. Mr David Young, minister at Monivaird ; for his not read
ing nor praying, and praying for the late King ; and not observing
the thanksgi-ving nor proclamation for the collection. Present;
acknowledges that he did not read nor pray in the terms of the
proclamation till the Sabbath after the citation was given him.
Deprived. ] 30. Mr David Hedderweick, minister at Camebre ; for not read
ing nor praying, and for entertaining of skulking persons, and for
saying, in a deriding manner, that the surrender of the Castle of
Edinburgh made a great noise. Absent ; holden as confest. Certifi
cation. Deprived.
131. Mr Alexander Arthburnet, minister at Arthburnet ; for not
reading the proclamation of the estates, nor pi-aying in the terms
thereof, nor observing the fast, nor proclamation for the contribution.
Absent ; holden as confest. Sentenced, ut supra.
132. Mr Alexander Foulis, minister at Enderwick ; for not reading
nor praying, nor observing the fast. Present ; and acknowledging his
not reading the proclamation, but prayed for their Majesties, though
not in due time. Deprived.
133. Mr James Adamson, minister at Etrick ; for his not reading
and praying, and praying for the late King's restauration ; and for not
observing the fast, but suffering his servants to work that day ; and
harbouring disaffected persons. i)epositious of the witnesses aduced,
the libel found not proven. Acquitted.
September 26, 1689.
134. Mr Thomas Blair, minister at Lendall; for not praying nor
reading, nor observing the thanksgiving, nor the proclamation for the
voluntary contribution. Present ; and acknowledging his not reading
nor praying. Deprived.
135. Mr Da-vid Drummond, minister at KiUmadock ; for his not
reading and praying, nor observing the fast ; and for keeping com
pany with disaffected persons. Present; acknowledged, ut supra.
Deprived. 136. Mr Alexander Burnet, minister at St Ninians; for his not
reading nor praying, and for praying for the late King and pretend
ed Prince of Wales. Absent; holden as confest. Certification, and
deprived. 137. Mr Gideon Bro-wn, minister at Smelholme ; for not reading
and praying, and absenting himself from his church the time appointed
for the reading the proclamation of estates. Present ; and acknow
ledged his not reading and praying. Deprived.
138. Mr John Keir, minister at Roxburgh; for not reading the
proclamation at the end, but only a part thereof, and mincing tho
same ; and for not praying for their Majesties, and for praying for the

85
late King, that God would confound his enemies. The libel not proven
by the witnesses aduced. Acquitted.
139. Mr Robert Rule, minister at Dundee; for not reading nor
praying, nor observing the day of thanksgiving, nor observing the
proclamation for a voluntary contribution to the French and Irish
Protestants. Present ; and acknowledged his not reading and praying.
Deprived. October 10, 1689.
140. Mr William Mac-Lethny, minister at Bouill ; for not read
ing and praying, and for saying, that seeing he had taken an oath
to King James, he would not obey King William's authority ; and
encouraging people to disown the authority of their present Majesties.
Absent ; holden as confest. Certifications granted against him, and
he deprived.
141. Mr John Lawson, minister at Elith ; for his not reading the
proclamation of the estates, nor praying in the terms thereof. Present ;
and acknowledged the same. Deprived.
142. Mr Alexander Balnaves, minister at Kinloch ; for not reading
and praying, »( supra, nor obeying the thanksgiving or fast. Present;
and acknowledged his not reading nor praying. Deprived.
143. Mr Charles Ross ; minister at Cralen ; for not reading nor
praj'ing, nor observing the fast. Present; acknowledged, ut supra.
Deprived. 144. Mr GKlbert Blair, minister at Blair; for his not reading
nor praying in the terras of the proclamation of the estates,
nor observing the fast. Present ; and acknowledged, ut supra. De
prived. 145. Mr John Blair, minister at Fintrey; for not reading nor
praying, and refusing to do the same, and saying, let the Whigs
pray for King William and Queen Mary, for he would not, for
he never got good by them : And for saying, that he would not
pray for them, till she got her father's blessing; and God keep
hira from having such a daughter. Absent ; holden as confest. De
prived. 140. Mr John Keir, minister at Cults; for not reading nor praying,
nor observing the thanksgiving nor collection. Present ; and acknow
ledged his not reading nor praying. Deprived.
147- Mr David Rankin, minister at Ratry ; for not reading the
proclamation of the estates, and praying in the terms thereof; and for
not observing the day of thanksgiving. Present ; and acknowledged,
ut supra. Deprived. October 3, 1689.
148. Mr Robert Young, minister at Kippen ; for not reading and
not praying, and for many e-vidences of his dissatisfaction to the
government, and for his being otherwise scandalous, and for certain
expressions uttered by him. Present ; denies the proclamation came
to his hands the 21th of April, and that he was constantly since
molested ; and that he never preached since, except once in his own
house, and then he knew of the proclamation, and did not read nor
pray in the terms therof. Deprived.
149. Mr Patrick Bell, minister at Port; for not reading nor praying,
nor observing the thanksgiving. Absent ; holden as confest. Certi
fication, and deprived.
150. Mr James Menzies, ministerat Calender; for not reading and
not praying. Deprived.

86
151. Mr John £dmnigestown, minister at Gorgounoch ; for not
reading and praying, and throwing from him the proclamation of
the estates when delivered to him to read; and being a person
violently thrust in on the paroch without consent ; and for his
immoderate drinking, and other scandalous practices. Depositions
of the witnesses aduced, found the libel sufficiently proven. De
prived. 152. Mr Alexander Mac-Knizir, minister at Neutj'll; for his not
reading nor praying, nor observing the fast. Depositions of the wit
nesses aduced ; finds the libel not proven. Acquitted.
October 8, 1689.
153. Mr Patrick Strachan, minister at Maxtown ; for not reading
and not praying. Present ; and acknowledged. Deprived.
154. Mr William Easton, minister at Auchtergaven ; for not read
ing, and praying that the Lord would exalt King James's horns above
his enemies, and that they and their designs might be confounded.
Present; and acknowledged bis not reading and not praying. De
prived. 155. Mr Thomas Fouler, minister at Kinail ; for not reading nor
praying, and for praying for the late King's restauration, and for
thanking God for the Viscount of Dundee's victory against Maj.-Gen.
Mackay at Gillechrankie, and thereupon drinking the late King and
Viscount of Dundee's health. Present; acknowledged, ut supra.
Deprived. 156. Mr John Murray, minister at Scoon; for not reading and
praying, and for praying for the late King's restauration ; and sit
ting down on his knees, and blessing the Viscount of Dundee in
his undertaking for the late King, and for sending his brother with
the late Viscount ; and for saying to him, " God's curse and my curse
befal you, if you leave the Viscount until you return victorious."
Present ; and acknowledged his not reading nor praying. Deprived.
October 10, 1689.
157. Mr William Law, minister at Forres; for not reading nor
praying, nor observing the proclamation for the contribution. Present ;
and acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
158. Mr John Drummond, minister at Mintzie ; for his not reading
nor praying, and for praying for the late King, and being otherwise
scandalous in his life. Present; and acknowledged, ut supra. De
prived. 159. Mr William Falconer, minster at Dyck; for not reading nor
praying. Present ; and answered, that Dundee was at the place on
the day appointed for reading, with a great nember of men and arms
at Forres, and staid there two days before, and a day after, and
threatning all the ministers of the presbytery conveened at that time,
if they should read the same ; and that there was no other day ap
pointed for the reading thereof; and that he was content to make
faith, that he had expresly prayed for their Majesties ; and that he
was of opinion that such a government of the Church, which conduces
-ffery much to piety and suppression of vice, hath the approbation of
of God Almighty, and so is jure divino ; and that Presbyterian govern
ment with moderation and unity may conduce to the aforesaid ends as
much as any other government in the Church of this nation. In
regard that M. G. Mackay was in the neighbourhood, and as near
the time appointed for reading the proclamation of the estates, and

87
during his continuance there, the defendent persisted in his disobeying,
lie was deprived.
160. Mr William Hay, late Bishop of MuiTay, as parson of Elgin ;
for not reading nor praying, nor observing the proclamation concern
ing the thanksgiving, contribution, and fast. Absent; holden as
confest. Certifications, and deprived.
101. Mr Archibald Gud, minister at Elgin, Libel, utsupra. Pre
sent ; acknowledged not reading nor praying. Deprived.
162. Mr James Cook, minister at Langbude. Libel, u( supra. Pre
sent ; and acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
163. Mr John Drummond, minister at Foules ; for not reading and
praying, and praying for the late King, and keeping converse with
rebds. Present ; acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived, and ordered to
be committed to prison, and the bond granted to Keillor to produce
him, ordered to be given to him the said Lord of Keillor.
October 16, 1689.
164. Mr James Craig, minister at Kilren ; for not reading and
praying, and saying, that this Prince, King William, had procured
great trouble in his time ; and wishing he were drowned in the Mickle
Pot of Great-Nesse, which is the deepest place in the Murry- Water ;
and for calling King William a cypher'd King; and for several other
opprobrious speeches. Witnesses aduced. The libel not found
proven, and he acquitted. October 18, 1689.
165. Mr James Forsy the, ministerat St Ninians; for not reading
and praying, nor observing the thanksgiving, and reflecting against the
proceedings of the estates. Depositions of witnesses aduced. Libel
not proven, and he acquitted,
166. Mr James |Aird, minister at Torybume ; for not reading
and praying, and praying for the late King, our natural Prince,
that God would comfort him in the day of his distress ; and
praying that God •would send back that tyrant (meaning King
William, who had come to invade these lands) with a hook in his
jaws. Depositions of witnesses aduced. The libel found proven, and
he deprived. October 22, 1689.
167. Mr John Hamilton, late Bishop of Dunkeld, as minister at
Miglo, and Mr John Gresm bis helper; both for not reading the pro
clamation, nor praying in the terms thereof ; and the said Mr John,
for praying for the late King's restauration, and that God would give
him the necks of his enemies; and for harbouring the Vise, of
Dundee. Mr John Hamilton absent, holden as confest ; and Mr
Gresm present, and acknowledging he read not the said proclamation,
nor prayed in terms thereof. Certification granted against Mr John
Hamilton ; and both deprived. October 29, 1689.
168. Mr Alex. Lindsay, minister at Cortachie ; for not reading and
not praying, and praying for the late King, and not observing the
thanksgiving ; and several other things libelled against him, as evi
dencing his dissatisfaction to the present Government, and keeping
correspondence with the rebels. Present; and acknowledged his not
reading nor praying. Deprived.
169. Mr John Nicolson, minister at Erroll; for not reading and
praying, and for employing deprived ministers to preach for him the

88
day of the fast, and for praying in general foi- the King and Queen,
and that God would enlighten the King's eyes, and that no arms
prosper against him, meaning the late King. Present ; and acknow
ledged, ut supra. Deprived. November 7, 1689.
170. Mr John Ross, minister at Dornoch ; for not reading the
proclamation of the estates, nor praying in the terms thereof. Pre
sent ; and the complainant being cited, and having produced no
witnesses ; and the defender producing a certificat, that the proclama
tion was not sent to the sheriff-deputy of the shire of Sutherland, or
the clerk of the foresaid shire under their hands ; and declaring that
he had no scruple to read the same ; and that he had prayed for their
Majesties, King William and Queen Mary. Acquitted.
171. Mr James Fran, minister at Keith ; for not reading and pray
ing, and praying for the late King's restauration to the throne. Ab
sent ; holden as confest. Certification, and deprived.
172. Mr Arthur Strachan, minister at Morthick; for not read
ing and praying for the late King's restauration to the throne ;
and for his conversing with rebels, and for pressing some of his
parishioners to go into open rebellion under the Lord Dunferm
ling. Present; and acknowledging his not reading nor praying.
Deprived. 173. Mr John Henderson, minister at Deskoord ; for his not reading
nor praying, and praying for the late King's restauration to the
throne. Present ; and acknowledged his not reading nor praying.
Deprived. 174. Mr John Hay, minister at Ruthven. Libelled, ut supra.
Present ; and acknowledged, ut supra. Deprived.
175. Mr Patrick Chalmer, minister at Boyndee ; for not reading
and praying, and praying for the late King's restauration ; and for his
praying against, and speaking evil of, the present government, and
praying for K. William and Q. Mary scoffingly, saying, as they call
them ; and for expressing, that seeing the convention had voted out
K. James, he hoped they would vote out the belief of the Trinity
also. And for calling the members of parliament a pack of devils and
rebels : and that the convention had only issued out the proclamation
for the contribution, on purpose to disgrace King James ; and that
they were runnagadoes and rascals who came from Ireland, and pre
tended persecution, oppression, and force, when they had never lain
under any, and therefore would not intimate the proclamation: And
for saying, that all are for King William, should renounce the name
of Protestants, and take that of rebels. Aud for his ordinary con
versing with Papists, drinking drunk ; and being otherwise scandalous
in his life and conversation. Present; and acknowledged his not
reading and praying. Deprived.
176. Mr John Innes, minister at Gamrie ; for not reading the
proclamation, and praying in the terms thereof; and for praying
for the late King's restauration to the throne. Present ; and declar
ing, as soon he had notice of the proclamation of the estates, he pray
ed for their Majesties, King William and Queen Mary : And that the
proclamation not coming to his hands in due time, sometime there
after he read the same, having got it from a neighbouring minister.
Acquitted. 177. Mr Alex. Ker, minister at Grange ; for not reading and pray
ing, and praying for the late King's restauration to the throne. There
being a certificate produced, under the hands of two physicians, upon
ioul and conscience, that he was not able to travel : and another

89
declaration under the hands of his parishioners, that he had given
obedience, he was acquitted.
178. Mr John Dempster, minister at Larg; for not reading and
praying, and praying for the late King. Absent. Deprived.
179. Mr Simon Grant, minister at Duther; for not reading and
praying. Acknowledges. Deprived.
180. Mr Colme Nicolson, minister at Kirkmichael ; for not reading
and praying. Absent. Deprived.
181. Mr John Stewart, minister at Cromdale ; for not reading and
praying. Present ; and acknowledges. Deprived.
182. Mr James Grant, minister at Abemethie ; for not reading and
praying. Present ; and a(jknowledges. Deprived.
183. Mr Walter Rose, minister at Rogart ^ for not reading and
praying, and praying for the late King. Never called in question.
Continued till the first Thursday of January, and never called.
184. Mr Hugh Rose, minister at Creigh ; for not reading and pray
ing, and praying for the late King. Never called in question. Con
tinued, ut supra, and never called.

1690.
INTRODUCTION.

The foregoing pages contain evidence sufficiently ample
of the events of the revolution in 1688-9 ; and the
several public documents which we have collected, evince
the nature of the change which had taken place, not
merely of the sovereigns, but in the policy by which
they were respectively governed ; while those of a more
private nature, disclose pretty plainly the under current
by which the tide of revolution was strongly impelled
in its progress. The acts of the estates, and public
declarations of the Prince of Orange, of the Presbyterian
clergy, and of others, exhibit the broad and general grounds^
on which the revolution was eifected and justified; but
it is only in the veiled communications of the several
parties, that we can discover the true motives of the
actors in that interesting drama, — combining, in their
general texture, the usual admixture of high principle
and of selfish passions. In one class of our ancestors at
that time, we often find traces of high and chivalrous
loyalty to the expatriated monarch, blended with selfish
and sinister purposes, and a devotedness to arbitrary prin
ciples. In the other, we perceive manifestations of re
verence for religion and liberty, disfigured by moroseness
of spirit, vindictiveness, and a grovelling fanaticism in
favour of Presbyterian Church government, amounting
to superstition. In the miscellaneous correspondence
with Lord Melvill, we find numberless proofs of sordid
cupidity and selfishness, even among the most prominent
leaders of the movement, which dispel entirely any sem
blance of romance with which their revolutionary achieve
ments may have been invested in the imaginings of more
modern times : and altogether, the events ot the years

91
1688 and 1689, produce rather a humiliating picture of
our countrymen, who were then engaged in reconstructing
the constitution of the country.
Although, however, the ascendency of James, or of
William, as the sovereign, formed the more prominent
object of the struggle which was then carried on, — and
although the adherence to the one or the other party was
powerfully influenced by private considerations ; yet the
antagonist partisans were generally governed, we doubt
not, by the vehemence of their respective feelings, in
favour of, or in hostility to, the two rival systems of
ecclesiastical polity, which were then in competition, —
Prelacy or Presbytery. The convention of estates had de
clared Prelacy to be a grievance, but it still stood as the
established religion of the kingdom, on the statute book,
till the 22d of July '89 ; and the barbarities which were, in
such circumstances, perpetrated by the rabble against the
unprotected, and often unoffending, clergy, and winked at,
if not encouraged, by the aristocratical and clerical Presby
terians, do not tend much to exalt the moral character of
that sect, however much they dealt in patriotic and sancti
monious language. It was not, by any means, the wish
of the Prince of Orange, individually, to make any altera
tion on the ecclesiastical structure of the establishment ;
and indeed, except that the prelates presided in the coun
cils of the Church, there was, from the time of the restora
tion, in the general aspect, doctrine, and discipline of the
Church, a very slight difference betwixt the forms of wor
ship and procedure in the Church courts of the Scotch
Episcopalian and Presbyterian systems.* The quality
which rendered Episcopacy so odious to the people,
was the tyranny of the last of the Stuarts, and the sub
serviency of the prelates. Despotism and Prelacy were
thus associated in the public mind as inseparably con
nected; but there is every reason to believe, that the
officiating clergy of the Episcopal church discharged
their pastoral duties as unexceptionably, in every respect,
as those of the Presbyterian persuasion, — were as sound in
life and doctrine, — and were more learned than their per
secuted brethren. Be this as it may, however, the doom
of Prelacy was sealed by the convention ; and when
that body was converted, by a political fiction, into, a
• Sir H. Moncrieff's Brief View, &c., pp. 15, 15.

t)2
parliament, the recognition of King William and Queen
Mary, on the 5th of June 1689, and the abolitiongof
Prelacy, were almost simultaneous enactments.
It was not, however, until the second session of the
revolution parliament, met on the 25th of April 1690,
that a series of acts were passed, — one rescitiding the ac't
of royal supremacy adopted in 1669 ; another restoring
the Presbyterian ministers who had been ejected from
their churches after 1st January 1661; and, finally, an
act (ch. V.) ratifying the Westminster Confession of
Faith, and settling Presbyterian Church government.
Subsequently (ch. 23), an act was adopted transferring
those rights of patronage, which were coeval with the
Reformation, from the ancient patrons to the heritors and
elders of parishes. And although we wish anxiously t6
avoid all controverted topics on this occasion, we may bfe
permitted, without offence, to observe, that it is very re
markable to find, that, in the claim of right and the articles
of grievances drawn up by the convention, and in all
the public addresses and papers of the Presbyterian mini
sters at that time, there is not one word to be found
complaining of patronage in the Church as a grie
vance, or pointing to any claim of popular election as a
divine right inherent in the people of Scotland. We find,
indeed, in the more occult documents of the period, strong
indications of a desire for the abolition of patronage ; and
it is now established that it was Principal Carstares,
acting at court for the Presbyterian aristocracy and
clergy of Scotland, who overruled the strong objections
of King William to the course which was adopted, by
assurances that, politically, it was indispensable for in
suring the permanency of his throne. * In the Melvill
papers, we find many strong indications of these con
siderations having been pressed upon that sagacious Prince
by his Scotch councillors, — some of whom, such as Lord
Crawford, president of the council, were narrow-minded,
intolerant, and bigoted fanatics.
Aniongst all these conflicting influences, however, and
the palpable admixture, on all hands, of political feelings
and personal intrigues, Presbytery prevailed, and become
the established religion of Scotland ; and, without in-

" M'Cormick's Life of Carstares, p. 39.

93
dulging in any reflections, we now present, in juxta
position, the legislative enactments • of parliament, and
the proceedings of the Church as thus re-edified and
sanctioned during the course of the year 1690.
Before, however, inserting the acts of parliament to
whicli we have referred, it seems expedient, in order to
preserve chronological order, that we subjoin the fol
lowing documents of an authoritative character, which
were antecedent, in point of time, to any of the acts by
which the Church was re-established. These are the
instructions by King William to the Earl of Melvill,
commissioner to the parliament of 1690,— bis Majesty's
letter to the same nobleman, and remarks upon the draft
of the act of parliament, which was proposed for esta
blishing Presbytery. These documents are of importance,
as illustrative of the spirit, as well as the letter, of the
statutes subsequently enacted ; and they are instructive
as evincing the wise, just, and tolerant character of the
governihent by which Presbytery was restored. They
form a part of the Melvill Collection, and their authen
ticity may be fully relied on.

94

HISTORICAL DOCUMENTS.

I.
PttivATE IifsTnucTioifS from King William to the Earl of Melvill,
Commissioner to the Parliament.
(Superscribed) WILLIAM R.
I . You are to press an act anent the election of coiuitees of parlia
ment, allowing them to choose either a grand comittee,or lesser cSmittees
for particular business, or both, as they shall desire ; which comittees,
consisting of equall numbers chosen out of every estate by itselfe, shall
continue for what time shall be thought fit, some of our otficers of
state being alwayes present in all these comitties.
2. You are to touch the act already voted anent the rescinding the
first act of parliament, 1669.
3. You are to touch an act already voted for restoring Presbiterian
ministers to their churches.
4. You are to pass an act for abolishing patronages, if the parliamt.
shall desire the same.
5. You are to pass one or more, as the parliament shall agree to,
for settling of Church government, conform to the former instruction
given thereanent.
6. You are to propose to the parliaraent that they grant a supply
which may be suitable for maintaining the fforces, and supporting the
government, with respect to the present danger that the countrey is
exposed to, both from forreign invasion, and intestine comraotions.
7. That you propose to the parliameut, that they make enquiry
what is truly due to the countrey, either by the standing fibrces, or
others who, upon a public account, have taken quarters from the
countrey, that the accompts being adjusted, tlie balance may be paid.
8. That you propose to the parliament, that they take into their
consideration the losses sustained by heretors and others, that live
next adjacent to the rebell's estates, or otherwayes as shall be con-
deseended upon.
9. You are to propose to the parliament, that they take into their
consideration the business of trade and comerce, and that they adjust
the differences betwixt the burghs royall, and other burghs, that there
be an act past redressing the grievances of royall burghs.
10. You are to pass an act for regulating the nomination and appoint
ment of the lords of session in time coming, that in case of a partiall
vacancy, the lords to be named by us and our successors, shall be
admitted by the rest of the lords, conform to the former acts of parliar
ment and daily custome ; and in case of a totall vacation, the parlia
ment shall give in a list of persons, all qualified by law,
out of whom wee and our successors shall choose fifteen to be the
ordinary lords of session, who, having accepted and taken the. oath of

95
alltgianee and de fldeli, shall have power to choose one of themselru*
to le constant president, in absence of a chancellor, at least to con
tinue for one session.
11. You are to observe all the instructions given the last session of
pai'liament, except in so far as they are innovated or altered.
Given under our royal hand and signet, at our court at Ken-
singtoun, the 25th day of Februai-y 1689-90, and of our reigne
the first year. (Subscribed) W. R.

II.
Letter of the King to the Earl of Melvill, transmitting the King'*
Remarks on the Church Government.
WILLIAM R.
Right trusty and right entirely beloved cosin and councellour, wee
greet you well. Wee having considered the act anent Church govern
ment, have returned the same, and the alterations wee have thought
proper should be made in it. However, wee leave you some latitude,
which wee wish you may use with as much caution as you can, and in
the way will tend most for our service.
Given under our royall hand at our court att Kinsington, tha
22d of M ay 1690, and of our reign the second year.
W. R.

III.
His Matie's. Remarques upon the Act for settling Church Govern
ment in Scotland, which, together with some Reasons designed for
the clearing of it, and Answering those Objections that might ba
made against it, was sent to Him by my Lord Commissioner.
WILLIAM R.
1st, Whereas it is said that the Church of Scotland was reformed
from Poperie by Fresbyters without Prelacy, his Maty, thinks that
th6 this matter of fact may be true, which he doth not contradict,
yett it being denyed by some who discourse rauch of a power that
superintendants had in the beginning of the reformation, which was
like to that which bishops afterwards had, it were better it were
otherwise expressed.
2d, Whereas it is said that their Maties. doe ratify the Presbyteriall
Church government to be the only government of Christ Church in (hit
kingdom .- his Maty, desires it may be expressed thus, — to be the
government of the Church in that kingdom estabhshed by law.
3d, Whereas it is said that the government is to be exercised by
sound Presbyterians, and such as for hereafter shall be owned by
Presbyterian Church judicatories, as such ; his Maty, thinks that the
rule is too generall, depending as to its application upon the opinions
of particular men ; and therefore he desires that what is said to be
ihe maanipg of the rule in the reasons sent to him, may S^ expressed

96
i« tbs act, — ^viz., that such as shall subscribe to the Confession of Faith
and Catechismes, and are willing to submitt to the government^ of th«
Church, as established by law, being sober in their lives, sound in their
doctrine, and qualifyed- with gifts for the ministry, shall be adniitted
to the government, and his Maty, doth judge that the following de-
elaration might be a good test,
I. A. B. do sincerely declare, and promise, that I will own and
¦obniit to the present government of the Church, as it is now by law
•stablished in this kingdom, and that I will heartily concur with and
under it for the suppressing of sin and wickednesse, the promoting of
piety, and the purging of the Church of all erronious and scandalous
ministers ; and I doe alsoe assent and consent to the Confession of
Faith and the Larger and Shorter Catechismes, now confirmed by act
of parliament, as the standard of the Protestant religion in this
kingdom. 4th, Whereas it is desired to be enacted,, that the generall meeting
of the ministers doe appoint visitors for purging the Church, etc. his
Maty, thinks fitt that, for answering even those objections, which tha
reasons sent to him with the act doe suggest may made against thia
method, that what in the mentioned reasons is expressed by a may be,
BlS to the concern of his privy councill in that matter, and the pre
senting of the visitors to the commissioner, that he may see they are'
moderate men, be planly and particularly enacted.
5th, As to what concerns the meeting of synods and generall
Bsserablyes, his Maty, is willing that it should be enacted, that they
meet at such and such tiraos of the year, and as often as shall be
judged necessary, provided always that they apply to him or his privy
councill to know if there be any inconveniency as to publick affairs
in their meeting at such times, and have his allowance accordingly ;
and that in all their generall assemblies, a commissioner in the name
of his Maty, be there present, to-th© end-that nothing may be proposed
but what raerely concerns the Church; and in case any thing relating
to the civill government, or that is prejudiciall to it, should be there
proposed or debated, the said commissioner may give a stop to it till
he has acquainted the privy councill, and' received their direction
in it.
6th, Whereas it is desired to be enacted, that the parishes of those
thrust out by the people in the beginning of this revolution be declared
vacant upon this reason, because they were put upon congregations without
their consent, his Ma. desires it may be so expressed, as may be con
sistent with the right of patrons, which he thinks he hath the more
reason to desire, because in the reasons sent up with the act, it seems
to be acknowledged that this procedure is extraordinary and not to
be drawn into consequence.
7th, The King thinks fitt, that the clause from line 30 to 54 be
absolutely left out as unnecessary, being merely narrative, and the act
concerning supremacy being now repealed.
His Matie's. resolution to be candid and above board in whait ho
does ; and his desire, that what is now granted by him to the Church
may not be uneasie to him afterwards, do incline him to have the
above mentioned amendments in the act.
It is his Maties. desire, that such as are of the Episcopall persuasion
in Scotland have the same indulgence that Dissenters have in England,
provided they give security to live peaceably under the govern raent,
and take the oath of allegeance.
W. R.

97
IV.
LETTER, Earl of Pobtland to Lord Mki.vill.
[Translated from the original in French.]
Kensington, ce 15-25 May, '90.
¦Sir, — I congratulate you with all my heart on the good success of
the political as well as tho military affairs of the King in your hands,
and that you will cany with you the satisfaction of having been the
instrument which has served in so good a work.
I do not doubt that some day or other your difiiculties will diminish,
and as a necessary consequence your work will diminish also ; for we
think no more of the trouble when we see our enterprise succeed.
I have seen, with much pleasure, the list of the committees that
Mr Cairstairs has shown me. I do not doubt. Sir, that the change of
counsel, that you have desired, will act with a little more ardour than
the former for the support of the government, and will inspire a littlo ¦
more respect in the minds of tlie evil-intenticned. May it please God
that you may be able to adjust the establishment of the government
of the Church, without raising it so .high that it will sink by its own
weight, but that it may be able to subsist with the monarchy, and
that it may not give cause for jealousy to the English Church here,
and by that may not da wrong to the Presbyterians of this kingdom.
And now, Sir, touching military affairs, it would be to your advan
tage to give as little time as possible to the Highlanders to reconnoitre,
in hastening, as much as possible, the expedition of an Anderlocby. .
I am sorry that Mr Mackay does not better satisfy the people of your
country ; however, he is very faithful to the King, and he understands
war better than any one you have there. One reason why he should
be there is, we can trust him certainly, and assist him as much as
possible; and as the scarcity of money will permit you. You must not
expect any frora this at present, as you will have learned by this time.
Those who have wished to confuse matters have not been able to
succeed. Mr Carstairs has shown a letter which speaks of a plot.:
it will be necessary to examine the thing to the bottom as much as
possible. His Majesty sends for this effect the desired pardons.
1 pray you always to calculate on my sincere
friendship, and to be persuaded that I am. Sir,
your very humble .very obedient servant,
PORTLAND.

LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS.
LAWS and ACTS made in the Second Session of the First PAR
LIAMENT of our High and Dread Sovereigns, WILLIAM and
MARY, by the Grace of God, King and Queen of Scotlakd,
Englani), Franck, and Ireland, Defenders of the Faith. Hol
den at Edinburgh the 25th day of April 1690.
L
Act rescinding the First Act of the Second Parliament 1669.
April 25, 1690.
Our Soveraign Lord and Lady, the King and Queens Majesties,
taking into their consideration that by the second article of the grie
vances presented to their Majesties, by the estates of this kingdom, it
is declared, that the first act of the second parliament of King Charles
the Second, entituled. Act asserting his Majesties supremacy over all
persons, and in all causes ecclesiastical, is inconsistent with the
establishment of the Church government now desired, and ought to
be abrogat. Therefore their Majesties, with advice and consent of
the estates of parliament, do hereby abrogat, rescind, and annull the
foresaid act ; and declares the same in the whole heads, articles, and
clauses thereof, to be of no force or effect in all time coming.

II.
Act restoring the Presbyterian Ministers who were thrust from their
Churches since the first day of January 1661. April 25, 1690.
Forasmuch, as by an act of this present parliament, relative to, and
in prosecution of, the claim of right. Prelacy, and the superiority of
the Church officers above Presbyters, is abolished : And that many
ministers of the Presbyterian perswasion, since the first of January
one thousand six hundred sixty-one have been deprived of their
churches, or banished for not conforming to Prelacy, and not com
plying with the courses of the time. Therefore their Majesties, with
advice and consent of the estates of parliament, ordain and appoint
that all these Presbyterian ministers yet alive, who were thrust from
their charges since the first day of January one thousand six hundred
sixty-one, or banished for not conforming to Prelacy, and not com
plying with the courses of the time, have furthwith free access to
their churches, that they may presently exercise the Ministry in these
paroches without any new call thereto ; and allows them to bruik and
enjoy the benefices and stipends thereunto belonging, and that for
the whole crop one thousand six hundred eighty-nine, and imme
diately to enter to the churches and manses, where the churches are
vacant, and where they are not vacant, then their entry thereto is
declared to be the half of the benefice and stipend, due and payable at
Michaelmas last for the half year immediately proceeding, betwixt
Whitsunday and Michaelmass, declaring that the present incumbent
«hall have right to the other half of the stipend and benefice payable
for the Whitsunday last by-past : And to the effect, that these
ministers may meet with no stop or hinderance, in entering imme-

99
diately to their charges, the present incumbents in such churches, ars
hereby appointed apon intimation hereof, to desist from their Ministry,
in these paroches, and to remove themselves from the manses and
gleibs thereunto belonging, betwixt and Whitsunday next to come,
that the Presbyterian ministers formerly put out, many enter peace
ably thereto. And appoints the privy council to see this act put to
execution.

Act ratefiing the Confession of Faith, and settling Presbyterian
Church Government. June 7, 1690.
Our Soveraign Lord and Lady, the King and Queens Majesties, and
three estates of parliaraent, conceiving it to be their bound duty,
after the great deliverance that God hath lately wrought for this
Church and kingdora, in the first place to settle and secure therein,
the true Protestant religion, according to the truth of God's Word,
as it hath of a long time been professed within this laud ; as also, the
government of Christ's Church within this nation, agreeable to tha
Word of God, and most conducive to the advancement of true piety
and godliness, and the establishing of peace and tranquillity within
this realm; and that by an article of the claim of right it is de
clared, that Prelacy, and the superiority of any office in the Church
above Presbyters, is, and hath been a great and insupportable grie
vance and trouble to this nation, and coutrai-y to the inclination of
the generality of the people ever since the Reformation, they having
reformed from Popery by Presbyters, and therefore ought to be abo
lished, Likeas, by an act of the last session of this parliament.
Prelacy is abolished ; Therefore their Majesties, with advice and
consent of the saids three estates, do hereby revive, ratifie, and perpe
tually confirm, all laws, statutes, and acts of parliament made against
Popery and Papists, and for the maintainance and preservation of the
true reformed Protestant religion, and for the true Church of Christ
within this kingdom, in so far as they confirm the same, or are made
in favours thereof. Likeas, they by these presents, ratifie and establish
the Confession of Faith, now read in their presence, and voted and
approven by them, as the publick and avowed Confession of this
Church, containing the sum and substance of the doctrine of the
reformed churches ; (which Confession of Faith is subjoyned to this
present act.) As also they do establish, ratifie aud confirm the Pres
byterian Church government and discipline: That is to say, the go
vernment of the Church by kirk-sessions, presbyteries, provincial
synods, and general assemblies, ratified and established by the 114
ikct,-Jn. 6, pari. 12, anno 1S92, entituled, ratification of the liberty
of the true kirk, &c., and thereafter received by the general consent
of this nation to be the only government of Christ's Church within
this kingdom : Reviving, renewing, and confirming the foresaid
act of parliament in the whole heads thereof, except that part of
it relating to patronages, which is hereafter to be taken into con
sideration : and rescinding, annulling, and making void the acts of
parliaraent following, viz., — Act anent restitution of bishops, Ja. 6,
pari. 18, cap. 2. Act ratifying the acts of assembly, 1610. Ja. 6,
pari. 21, cap. 1. Act anent the election of archbishops and
bishops. Ja. 6, pari. 22, cap. 1. Act entituled, ratification of the
five articles of the General Assembly, at Perth, Ja. 6., p^rl. 23,
Cap. 1. Act entituled, for the restitution, and re-establishment of

100
<ih« ancient government of the Church, by archbishops and bisbopt,
oh. 2, pari. 1, sees. 2. Act. I, anent the constitution of a national
synod, ch. 2, pari. 1, sess. 3. Act 5, Act against such as refuse to
depone against delinquents, ch. 2, pari. 2, sess. 2. Act 2. Act en
tituled, act acknowledging and asserting the right of succession to the
imperial crown of Scotland, ch. 2, pari. 3. Act. 2. Act entituled, act
anent religion and the test, ch. 2, pari. 3, act 6, with all other acts,
laws, statutes, ordinances, and proclamations, and that in so far allaner-
ly as the saids acts and others generally and particularly above-men
tioned, are contrary, or prejudicial to, inconsistent with, or derogatory
from, the Protestant religion, and Presbyterian government now
established ; and allowing and declaring, that the Church govern
ment, be established in the hands of and exercised by these Pres
byterian ministers, who were outed since the first of January 1661.
for nonconformity to Prelacy, or not coraplying with the courses of
the times, and are now restored by the late act of parliament, and such
ministers and elders only as they have admitted or received, or shall
hereafter admit or receive : And also that all the said Presbyterian
ministers have, and shall have right to the maintenance, rights, and
other privileges, by law provided to the ministers of Christs Church
•rithin this kingdom, as they are, or shall be legally admitted to
particular churches. Likeas, in pursuance of the premisses, their.
Majesties do hereby appoint the first meeting of the general assembly
of this Church, as above established, to be at Edinburgh, the third
Thiirsday of October next to come, in this instant year 1690 ; and
because many conform ministers either have deserted, or were re
moved from preaching in their churches preceding the 13th day of
April 1689; and others were deprived for not giving obedience to
the act of the estates made in the said 13 of April 1689, entituled,
Proclamation against the owning of the late King James, and appoint
ing publick prayers for King William and Queen Mary ; Therefore
their Majesties, with advice and consent foresaid, do hereby declare
all the churches, either deserted, or from which the conform mini
sters were removed, or deprived, as said is, to be vacant, and that the
Presbyterian ministers exercising their ministry within any of these
paroches, (or where the last incumbent U dead) by the desire or
consent of the paroch, shall continue their possession, and have right
to the benefices and stipends, according to their entry in the year
1689, and in time coming, ay and while the Church as now esta
blished, take further course therewith. And to the effect the disor
ders that have happened in this Church may be redressed. Their
Majesties, with advice and consent foresaid, do hereby allow the ge
neral meeting, and representatives of the foresaid Presbyterian mini
sters and elders, in whose hands the exercise of the Church government
is established, either by themselves, or by such ministers and elders
as shall be appointed and authorized visitors by them, according to
the custom and practice of Presbyterian government throughout the
whole kingdom, and several parts thereof, to try and purge out all
insufficient, negligent, scandalous, and erroneous ministers, by due
course of ecclesiastical process, and censures ; and likeways for re
dressing all other Church disorders. And further, it is hereby pro
vided, that whatsoever minister being conveened before the said
general meeting, and representatives of the Presbyterian ministers
and elders, or the visitors to be appointed by them, shall either prove
contumacious in not appearing or be found guilty, aud shall be there
fore censured, whether by suspension or deposition, they shall ipso
Jaeto be suspended from, or deprived of, their stipends and benefices.

101

XVIL
Act for Visitation of Universities, Colledges, and Schools.
July 4, 1G90.
Our Soveraign Lord and Lady, the King and Queens Majesties, and
the three estates of parliament, considering how necessary it is for the
advancement of religion and learning, and for the good of the Church,
and peace of the kingdom, that the universities, colledges, and schools,
be provided, and served with pious, able, and qualified professors, prin
cipals, regents, masters, and others, bearing office therein, well affected
to their Majesties, and the established government of Church and
State : Therefore their Majesties, with advice of the saids three estates
of parliament, do statute, ordain, and enact, that from this time forth,
BO professors, principals, regents, masters, or others, bearing office in
any university, colledge, or school, within this kingdom, be either
admitted, or allowed to continue in the exercise of their saids func
tions, but such as do acknowledge and profess, and shall subscribe to
the Confession of Faith, ratified and approven by this present parlia
ment : ' Atid also swear and subscribe the oath of alledgeance to their
Majesties ; and withal shall be found to be of a pious, loyal, and
peaceable conversation, and of good and sufficient literature and
abilities for their respective imployment: and submitting to the go
vernment of the Church, now settled by law. And albeit it be their
Majesties undoubted right and prerogative, to name visitors, and
cause visit the foresaids universities, colledges, and schools, yet at
this time their Majesties are pleased to nominat and appoint, with
advice and consent foresaid, the persons under named, — viz., the
Dake of Hamilton, Earl of Argyle, Earl Crafurd, Earl Marishal,
Karl Morton, Earl Cassils, Earl Lothian, Earl Kintore, Viscount of
Arbuthnot, Viscount of Stair, Lord Raith, Lord Elphingstoun, Lord
Cardoss, Lord Carmichael, Lord Ruthven. Master of Burghly, Master
of Stair, Lord Advocat, Sir George C.impbel, justice-cl-erk, the Master
of Forbes, Mr Alexander Swinton of Mersingtoun, Mr David Home
of Crosrig, Mr John Hamilton of Halcraig, Senators of the Colledge
of Justice, Sir Patrick Home of Polwart, Sir John Maxwell of
Pollock, Sir Thomas Burnet of Lies, Sir Robert Sinclair of Stevinson,
Sir George Monro of Culren, Mr Francis Montgomery of Giffins, Mr
James Melvill of Halhill, Brodie of that ilk. Grant of
that ilk, Dumbar of Grange, Mr Robert Lermont of Balcomy,
Peter Hay of Naughtoun, elder, Cunninghame of Craigens ,
John Dempster of Pitliver, Drummond of Meggins, George
Moncrieff of Ready, elder. Sir John Hall of Dunglass, Sir William
Hamilton, Alexander Spittle of Leuchat, John Anderson of Dowhill,
Mr James Sraallat, Mr James Rymer, minister, Mr William TuUidaff,
Mr Gabriel Cunninghame, Mr Edward Jameson, Mr Alexander Pit-
cairn, Mr Hugh Anderson, Mr Gilbert Ruel, Mr Hugh Kennedy, Mr
John Law, Mr James Kirkton, Mr Da-vid Blair, Mr George Campbel,
Mr George Meldrum, Mr Alexander Forbes, Mr William Vilant, Mr
William Mitchel, Mr Robert Willie, Mr James Mcgil, Mr Henry
Ryraer, and Mr John Oliphant, to be visitors, to the effect under
written,  viz., with full power and commission to them, or major part
of them, hereby declared to be their quorum, to meet and visit all
universities, colledges, and schools within this kingdom, and to take
tryal of the present professors, principal, regents, masters, and others.
bearing office therein, according to the qualifications and rules above-
mentioned, and such as shall be found to be erroneous, scandalous,
BPgligent, insufficient, or disaffected to their Majesties government, or

102
who shall not subscribe the Confession of Faith, swear and subscribe
the oath of allegiance, and submit to the government of the Church
now settled by law, to purge out and remove ; as also to consider the
foundations of the saids universities, colledges, and schools, with the
rents and revenues thereof, and how the same have been administered
and managed, and to set down such rules and methods, for the good
management thereof for hereafter, as likeways ' for ordering the
saids universities, colledges, and schools, and the professions and
manner of teaching therein, and all things else relating thereto, as
they shall think most meet and convenient, according to the foundations
thereof, and consistent with the present establisht government of
Church and State. And to th@ effect that these presents may bO'
more surely execute, their Majesties, with advice foresaid, do further
impower the foresaids persons, visitors, or their quorum, to appoint
committees of such numbers of their .own members as they shall
think fit, to visit the several universities and colledges within this
kingdom, with the schools within the bounds to be designed to them,
and that according to such instructions and injunctions as they shall
think fit to give them : And to the effect, that upon report made by
the said committee, to the aforesaid visitors, or their quorum, they
, may proceed and conclude thereupon, as they shall see cause. And
their Majesties appoint the aforesaid visitors to meet at Edin
burgh upon the twenty-third day of July instant, for the first dyet
of their meeting, with power to thera, to adjourn and appioint their own
meetings, to such days and places as for thereafter they shall judge
convenient, and this commission to endure, ay and while their Ma
jesties recall and discharge the same.

XXIII.
Act concerning Patronages. July 19, 1690.
Our Soveraign Lord and Lady, the King and Queens Majesties,
considering, that the power of presenting ministers to vacant churches,
of late exercised by patrons, hath been greatly abused, and is incon
venient to be continued in this realm, do therefore, with the advice
and consent of the estates of parliament, hereby discharge, cass, annul,
and make void the foresaid power, heretofore exercised by any patron
of presenting ministers to any kirk now vacant, or that shall hereafter
happen to vaick within this kingdom, with all exercise of the said
power : And also all rights, gifts, and infeftments, acts, statutes, and
customs, in so far as they may be extended, or understood, to establish
the said right of presentation ; but prejudice always, of such mini
sters as are duly entered by the foresaid, presentations (while in use)
thoir right to the manse, gleib, benefice, stipend, and other profits of
their respective churches, as accords: And but prejudice to tha
patrons, of their right to imploy the vacant stipends, on pious uses,
within the respective paroches, except where the patron is Popish, in
which case he is to imploy the same on pious uses, by the advice and
appointment of the presbytry ; and in case the patron shall fail in
applying the vacant stipend for the uses foresaid, that he shall lose
his right of administration of the vacand stipend, for that and the
next vacancy, and the samo shall be disposed on by the presbytry,
to the uses foresaid ; excepting always the vacant stipends within the
bounds of the synod of Argyle : And to the effect, the calling and enter
ing ministers in all time coming, may be orderly and regularly perform
ed-, their Majesties, with consent of the estates of parliament, do statute
and declare, that in case of the vacancy of any particular church, and
for supplying the same. with a minister, the heretors of the said paroch

103
{being Protestants) and the elders, are to name and propose the perioa
to the whole congregation, to be either approven or disapproven by
them ; and if they disapprove, that the disapprovers give in their
reasons, to the effect the affair may be cognosced upon by the pres
bytry of the bounds, at whose judgment, and by whose deterraina-
tion the calling and entry of a particular rainister, is to be ordered
and concluded ; And it is hereby enacted, that if application be not
made by the eldership, and heretors of the paroch, to the presbytry
for the call and choice of a minister, within the space of six months
after the vacancy, that then the presbytry may proceed to provide the
said paroch, and plant a minister in the church, tanquam jure devoluto.
It is always hereby declared, that this act shall be but prejudice of
the calling of ministers, to royal burghs by the magistrats, town
council, and kirk session of the brugh where there is no landward
paroch, as they have been in use before the year 1660. And where
there is a considerable part of the paroch in landward, that the call shall
be by magistrats, town council, kirk session, and the heretors of tha
landward paroch. And in lieu and recoraj'ense of the said right of
presentation, hereby taken away ; their Majesties, with advice and
consent foresaid, statute and ordain, the heretors and liferenters of
each paroch, and the town coimcils for the burgh, to pay to the said
patrons, betwixt and Martinmas next, the sura of six hundred merks,
proportionally effeiriug to their valued rents in the said paroch, — viz.,
two parts by the heretors, and a third part by the liferenters, deducing
always the patrons own part, effeiring to his proportion as an heretor,
aud that upon the said patron his granting a sufficient and forraal
renunciation of the said rigbt of presentation, in favours of the saids
heretors, town council for the brugh and kirk session, and it is hereby
declared, that as to the paroches to which their Majesties have right
to present ; upon payment of the said six hundred merks to the Clerk
of the Treasury, their Majesties shall be fully denuded of the right. ,
of presentation, as to that paroch ; and as to other patrons, if they
refuse to accept the said six hundred. merks, the same is to be con
signed in the hands of a responsal pei-son in the paroch, upon tha
hazard of the consigners, not to be given up to the patron, until he
grant the said renunciation , allowing, in the meantirae, the heretors
and kirk session, to call the minister conform to this act : And
ordains letters of horning to be direct at the instance of the patron,
against the heretors and others, who shall not make payment of the
said six hundred merks, after the said term of Martinraas next, and
likeways at the instance of the heretors, and others willing to pay,
against these who are unwilling: and incase the patron be unwilling,
to accept the said sum, or the heretors and others aforesaid, unwilling
to pay, ordains letters of horning to be direct at the instance of their
Majesties solicitor, against either of thera. And further their Ma
jesties, with advice and consent foresaid, statute, enact, and declare,
that the right of the teinds of the saids paroches, which are not here-
tably disponed, shall by vertue of this present act belong to the said
patrons, with the burden always of the ministers stipends, tacks and pro
rogations already granted to the said teinds, and of such augmentations
of stipends, future prorogations, and erections of new kirks, as shall
be found just and expedient, providing the saids patrons, getting right
to the teinds, by vertue of his present act, and who had no right
thereto of before, shall be, likeas, they are hereby obliged to sell to
each heritor the teinds of his own lands, at the rate of six years
purchase, as the same shall be valued by a commission for valuation
of teinds ; and whereas there are certain lands and annualrents holden
«f the said benefices, and beneficed, persons, from which the patron

104
might have soma benefit arising to them ; it is hereby ordained that
the right of superiority of the saids lands and annualrents, shall
belong to their Majesty in all time coming, with all the whole
casualities and emoluments thereof, notwithstanding of any former
act of parliament in the contrair; reserving notwithstanding of the
patrons, the feu-farms, and feu-mails of the said superiorities, ay and
while they receive payment and satisfaction from their Majesties, of
the price thereof, at the rate of 100 merks fur each chalder of victual
over head, and for each hundred merks of feu-mail, except where the
said feu-farms are a part of the ministers raodified stipend, or where
the minister is, and has been in possession thereof by the space of ten
years, or where he has the full benefice, in which cases, they are to be
irredeemable. Excepting likeways from this act the superiorities
belonging the Deanry of Hamilton and the Provostry of Bothwel,
whereunto the Duke of Hamilton has right, which are no ways
liereby prejudged.

XXXV.
Act anent Ministers that have not prayed for the King and Queen.
July 22, 1690.
The estates of parliament taking into their consideration, that
several ministers deprived for not praying publickly for King William
and Queen Mary, as King and Queen of this realm, and not reading
the proclamation of the estates, emitted upon the thirteenth day of
April, one thousand six hundred eighty-nine, for that effect, are by
their sentence of deprivation expresly prohibited to exercise any part
of their ministerial function within the paroches from which they were
deprived ; do nevertheless now far more perniciously and dangerously
diffuse the poyson of their disaffection, by taking the liberty to preach
and pray at other churches, and else where, where they neglect to
pray for King William and Queen Mary, in manner enjoyned by the
said proclamation, to the manifest contempt of publick authority, and
the stirring up and fomenting the disaffection of the people to their
Majesties, and the present government, and the encouragement of all
their enemies. Therefore our Soveraign Lord and Lady, the King
and Queens Majesties, with ad-vice and consent of the said estates of
parliament, do hereby prohibite and discharge the whole aforesaid
ministers, deprived as said is, to preach or exercise any part of the
ministerial function, either in churches or else where, upon any pretext
whatsomever, until first they present themselves before the lords of
their Majesties secret council, and there in presence of the lords
thereof, take, swear, and subscribe the oath of alledgeance, and also
engage themselves under their hands, to pray for King William and
Queen Mary as King and Queen of this realm, and not to owne or
acknowledge the late King James the Seventh for their King, in any
sort, conform to the tenor of the said proclamation ; certifying such
ministers as shall do in the contrary, that they shall be proceeded
against as persons disaffected, and enemies to their Majesties govern
ment, with all rigor : And further, their Majesties, with advice and
consent foresaid, ordain the said proclamation, and act of the estates
of the kingdom, to be put to further execution against all such mini
sters, who have not as yet given obedience thereto, by praying for
their Majesties in manner foresaid ; and that the lords of their Ma
jesties privy council proceed therein, or impower the sheril^ and
magistrats of burghs, to do the same within their respective boufids,
as they shall see cause.

1691-1702.
INTRODUCTION.

Having, in the detail of statutes by the supreme civil
legislature, given the authentic record of the re-establish
ment of the Presbyterian Church, — and having, in the
collateral documents, exhibited some details of the na
tional movement, both prior to, and consequent on, that
establishment, we may be permitted, in a few brief
sentences, to point out its leading characteristics, as the
national ecclesiastical institution for the religious instruc
tion of the people of Scotland, which still subsists,
without any change on its structure and essential elements,
except in one particular, — viz. Patronage,
The first Consideration which presses itself on our
attention is the fact, that the re-establishmeut of the
Presbyterian Church was purely and entirely an act of
the state, — of the supreme legislative authority which
then ruled the land. It cannot with truth be affirmed,
that the Presbyterian body, as a Church, had any concern
in its reconstruction. Undoubtedly, individuals of that
persuasion solicited the sovereign authority to restore
it, and used all their influence privately, or as members
of parliament, to accomplish their object; but so far as
we have been able to discover, there is no trace of any
evidence extant, which shows that, in a collective capacity,
and with the authority of an aggregate body acting as
a Church, in any mode known to the constitution of the
kingdom, the Presbyterians entered into any compact
with theV state, and adjusted the ground-work or plat
form of it, as had been done in 1567. and 1592, — the
terms of the arrangement having, on those occasions, been
previously adjusted by committees of the parliament and
of the Protestant Church, to \yhich the civil sanction was

106
afterwards suparadded in the form of acts of parliament!
If there be in existence any evidence of such negotiations
and stipulated terms, at the time of the Revolution, a»
we allude to, we have never seen it ; »or so far as we
have ever heard, did the Presbyterian clergy then alive,
or the Presbyterians as a body, set up any pretensions to
any inherent, reserved, and merely scriptural rights, as
something clothed with an independent jurisdiction, co
ordinate with, and uncontrollable by, the Sovereign and
civil legislature, or the civil judicatures established by
their authority, for the administration of justice in the
land. Such theories are but the idle dreams of modern
visionaries, borrowed from the speculations of troublous
times, during the reigns of King James VI. and Charles
I.; and they seem altogether irreconcilable with the
statutory constitution of the re-established Presbyterian
Church, as embodied in the acts of parliament passed in
the year 1690.
The tenor of all those acts warrants us to assume, that
the re-establishment of the Presbyterian Church was a
free and voluntary, if not a spontaneous, act of the state
alone. By the second act of the parliamant 1690, " their
Majesties, with advice and consent of the estates of
parliament, ordain and appoint that all the Presbyteriai*
ministers yet alive, who were thurst from their charges
since the 1st day of Jan. 1661, or banished for not con
forming to Prelacy, and not complying with the course*
of the time, have free access to their churches," &c. By
the 5th act, their Majesties, in like manner, with advice
and consent of the three estates of parliament, ratified all
former acts against Popery (Prelacy being abolished the
previous year by the Convention), — ratified the West
minster Confession of Faith, — ratified the Presbyterian
Church government and discipline, conform to the act
of 1592, " except that part of it relating to patronages,
which is hereafter to be taken into consideration," —
rescinded a number of acts connected with Prelacy, — ^in
vested the restored ministers with the power to exercise
Church government and discipline, and conferred on them,
and such as should be admitted by them, a legal right
to the temporalities of their benefices ; and " theiu Ma
jesties do hereby appoint the first meeting of the
General Assembly of this Church, as above established,
to be at Edinburgh the third Thursday qf October next

107
to come, in thia instant year 1690." And furtlier, by
the same act, " their Majesties, with advi«e and consent
foresaid," allowed that general meeting or assembly, thus
authorized, to name Visitors " to try and purge out all
insufficient, negligent, scandalous, and erroneous mini
sters," &c. In addition to all these direct and express
enactments, emanating from the supreme civil authority
in the state, and evincing its paramount and exclusive
authority so to enact, there is a chapter in the Confession
of Faith (the 23d), then ratified, by which the authority
of the civil magistrate, in matters ecclesiastic, is unequi
vocally declared ; nor in any one of the statutes of the
time, is there the slightest trace to be found of any
recognition, by parliament, of any inherent or independent
jurisdiction being vested in the Church courts, beyonil,
what was thus conferred. No power is given to put
forth edicts, regulations, or decisions inconsistent with
the laws of the land ; no warrant is given to them to
convoke General Assemblies of their own authority, or for
General Assemblies to delegate their judicative functions,
— (except in the particular case which then called for that
expedient,) — to visitors, commissions, or committees, — the
only judicatories established by that statute being kirk-
sessions, presbyteries, synods, and general assemblies, —
conformably to the platform of 1592.
It has been supposed, indeed, that a particular clause
in the act of 1592, thus ratified in 1690, reserved to the
Church a high and undefined measure of ecclesiastical
jurisdiction, entirely beyond the control of all civil
authority, — viz., the clause which declares that the act
22d May 1584, " sail no ways be prejudiciall, nor derogat
?inything to, the privilege that God hes g-evin to the
spirituall office-beareris in the kirk, concerning heads of
^eligioun, materisof heresie, excommunicatioun, collatioun,
or deprivatioun of ministeris, or ony sik essential censours,
speciall groundit and havand warrand of the Word of
God." And this theory has been contended for under
various passages in the Confession of Faith, where it is
said that Christ is the sole head of the Church universal,
— that he hath appointed Church officers distinct from the
civil magistrate, &c., from all which it is inferred, that
even by the civil statutes establishing the kirk, its office
bearers are invested with a jurisdiction altogether in
dependent of, and above the control of, any secular
authority.

103
This hypothesis, however, which is altogether irrecon
cilable with the first principles of Protestantism, is quite
untenable upon any rational construction of the statutes
referred to. 1st, By an act of parliament in 1567 (c 12.)
" Anent the jurisdiction of the kirk," it is declared that
*' the Kingis Grace, with avise of my Lord Regent and
thre estatis of this present parliament, hes deelarit and
grantit iurisdictioun to the said kirk, quhilk consistis and
standis in preaching of the trew Word of Jesus Christ,
eorrectioun of maneris, and administration of holy
sacramentis" This act has never been repealed, and it
contains a plain definition of the limits of the jurisdiction
of our Protestant clergy. 2dly, Although the clause
above quoted in the act 1592 appears to open a wide
^latitude to the range of ecclesiastical jurisdiction, — viz.,
" to put ordour to all materis and causes ecclesiasticall ; "
yet this power is limited by that very act itself, which
provides that their ministerial function of collation is
held under this restriction, that " the foirsaidis presbiteries
be butid and astrictit to ressaue and admitt quhatsomeuir
qualifiet minister presentit be his Majestie or uther laic
Eatrounes," — a provision as to which our Church courts
ave recently discovered they are invested with a dispens
ing power. But those more anciemt statutes are further to
be interpreted in the clauses which are SMd to confer such
high jurisdiction as is now claimed, by reference to the 23d
chapter of the Confession of Faith, in which it is express
ly laid down', that, although the civil magistrate " may not
assume to himself the administration of the word and
sacraments, or the power of the keys of the kingdom of
heaven j yet he hath authority, and it is his duty to take
order, that unity and peace be preserved in the Church,
— that the truth of God be kept pure and entire, — that
all blasphemies and heresies be suppressed, all corruptions
and abuses in worship and discipline prevented or reform
ed, and all the ordinances of God duly settled, admini
stered, aud observed ; for the bettCT effecting whereof, he
hath power to call synods^ to be present at them, and to
provide that whatsoever is transacted in them, be trans
acted according ta the mind of God."
This enactment of the supreme legislature in this land',
— the latest to be found in the statute-book respecting the
correlative jurisdictions of Church and State, — clearly im-
g^lies the existence of a supereminent power in the latter

109
to control, and even to coerce, the Church judicatories iu
any deviations beyond their legitimate sphere of opera
tion ; and as will be demonstrated in the sequel, the law
in this matter was so practically interpreted and acted
upon, by a frequent and vigorous exercise of the royal
prerogative, thus declared to be inherent in the Sovereign,
and the civil judicatories acting by his authority. We
shall not, however, anticipate ; but we could not resist
the opportunity thus afforded, of stating plainly the na
ture and limits of ecclesiastical authority conferred on the
Presbyterian Church by its constitution in 1690.
The only other acts of parliament to which, in this
cursory review of the events of 1690, it is necessary to
advert, were the act concerning patronages (ch. 23), — the
act rescinding various statutes for denouncing excommu
nicated persons and enjoining civil pains upon sentences
of excommunication (ch. 28), — the act anent ministers
that have not prayed for the King and Queen (ch 35.)
By the first, the right of presenting ministers to the
vacant parishes, was taken from the patrons and given
to the landholders and kirk sessions, — a system, the effects
of which will be best read in the results which followed
its enactment. By the second, the thunders of eccle
siastical censures were deprived of their terrors and tor
tures ; and, by the last, the sovereign authority exercised
its paramount power, and under it the King exerted his
prerogative, constraining the Presbyterian Church in the
exercise of its spiritual functions, to a degree fully as
Erastian as anything that has been condemned by some
Churchmen in former or later times.
Under the special authority of the act of parliament
already alluded to, the General Assembly, of the renovated
Presbyterian Church, met at Edinburgh on the day of
October 1690. We need not dwell on its proceedings
further, than to remark that, in terms of the parliamentary
authority, it appointed a commission of Visitors for ejectr
ing insufficient ministers, and receiving such of the Epis
copalian clergy as were disposed to accede to the new
establishment. Of the proceedings of that commission,
unfortunately,_the records are lost, — at least we are credibly
informed there is no trace of them in the library of the
Church. The probability, therefore, is, that they were
destroyed by a fire, which took place in the Lawnmarket
of Edinburgh on the 28th of October 1701, on which
occasion many of the archvies of the Church perished.
H

no
From the tenor of the various letters, and the gleanings
hereto subjoined, we learn that its proceedings were so
little in accordance with the wishes of the King, for a
generous and comprehensive toleration and admission of
the Episcopalian clergy, that he more than once rebuked
them for their conduct, and evinced great reluctance to
call another General Assembly for some years afterwards.
In a letter from Lord Carmichael, the commissioner in
the Assembly of 1690, dated November 14, to Lord
Melvill, he writes thus : —
" The Assembly was yesternight concluded. In his
Majesties nam I did dissolve it, and declared it tor be
digs«)Ived, and then appointed the next Assemblie to meet
at Edinburgh the first of November nixt, according to
his Majesties instructiones, which 1 hav also in all other
points studied to follow as closlie as possible."
This dissolution, by the royal authority, came rather
abruptly on the Assembly, as we learn from a pamphlet of
the day, while the members were debating among them
selves when the next meetiug should take place. They
acquiesced quietly in the unexpected dissolution and indic-
tion of the next Assembly, without any remonstrance or
cavalling, — and this terminated the first General Assembly
after the- Revolution.
Without prosecuting here, in all their detail, the
proceedings in parliament, or in the Church subsequently
to 1690, (which would lengthen these explanatory sketches
beyond what was contemplated, or would be convenient,)
we deem it advisable rather to subjoin the various acts of
parliaraent, which were passed relative to the Church
after its first establishment during the remainder of the
reign of King William III., who died on the 3d of
March 1702, reserving for a Supplement the acts of the
Assemblies,, and other illustrative documents, which we
find have accumulated on our hands beyond what we had
anticipated when these sheets were sent to the press. By
adopting this arrangement, we shall most satisfactorily
exhibit the parliamentary constitution of the Presbyterian
Church after the Revolution, and furnish, within a narrow
compass, the most authentic exposition of its character
that can be given. With the acts of parliament in his
hand, every man can judge for himself, what M'as the real
nature of the establishment contemplated by the state,
and accepted with gratitude by the Church, on whom it
was bestowed, — nor would it be fitting, in such a compila-

Ill
tion, to obtrude many remarks, which might be liable to
misconstruction. There are some documents, however, relative to the
period to which we refer, of such a nature, that it is con
sidered advisable to give them a place here, rather than to
postpone them for the Supplement : we allude to a variety
of proclamations, which were issued by the crown, in
dicting, adjourning, and dissolving General Assemblies of
the Church subsequently to the Revolution; and these
documents are perhaps the more important, that their
existence and effect are but little known, even to many
well-informed members of the Established Church. But
as a suitable preliminary to these, we may extract from
the original charter of the Presbyterian Church (the
act of 1592), the clause in it which bears reference to the
General Assemblies. That statute, by which the Pres
byterian polity was first established, —
" .Declaris that it salbe lauchful to the Kirke and
ministrie euerilk zeir at the leist, and offer pro re nata
as occasion and necessitie sail require, to hald and keep
Generall Assemblies, providing that the Kingis Maies-
tie or his Commissioner with thame to be appoyntit be
his Heienes, be present at ilk Generall Assemblie, be-
foir the dissoluing thairof, nominat and appoynt tyme and
place quhair the next Generall Assemblie sail be halden ;
and in caise nather his Maiestie nor his said Commissioner
beis present for the time in that toun quhair the said
Generall Assemblie beis halden, then in that caise, it
salbe lesum to the said Generall Assemblie be thamselffs
to nominat and appoynt tyme and place quhair the next
Generall Assemblie of the Kirk sal be keepit and halden,
as they haf bene in use to do thir tymes bipast."
We pretend not to put any interpretation of our own
upon this provision in the fundamental statute by which
Presbyterianism was introduced, and which was ratified
in 1690; but we think the practical construction put
upon it by the government who thus adopted it, and
that was acquiesced in by the Church for several suc
cessive years, may be regarded as evincing its true
meaning and effect. Let us see, then, what actually
took place after the Revolution, with respect to the call
ing and adjourning, or dissolving of General Assemblies.
As already stated in these remarks, the first General
Assembly after the Revolution was held in virtue of a

112
special sanction, for that effect, given in the act of parlia
ment restoring Presbyterian Church government.
It was re-established by act of parliament ; and, in
that act, the Church, as thus revived, was authorized
to meet on the 3d Thursday of October the same
year. It met accordingly, and was dissolved ; and
another Assembly appointed to be held on the 1st No
vember 1691, — this being done by the King and
Queen's Commissioner, It did not, however, meet in
November that year, having been adjourned by a royal
proclamation, — not by any act of the Church itself, — till
the 15th of January 1692. In proof oS this, we subjoin
the following proclamation : —
" A Proclamation adjourning the General Assembly.
" William and Mary, by the Grace of God, King
and Queen of Great Brittain, France, and Ireland, De
fenders of the Faith, To
Macers of our Privy Council, messengers-
at-arms, our sheriffs in that part, conjunctly and severally,
specially constitute, greeting : Whereas we had appointed
the General Assembly of the Church of this our antient
kingdom, to meet and conveen the first day of November
next ; and we, considering how necessary it may be, that
our Commissioner to the former Assembly attend us, before
the sitting down of the said General Assembly, that we
may give full instructions to our Commissioner, who is to
be present thereat, for the better adjusting matters relating
to the said General Assembly ; and, for that end, having
called up our Commissioner to attend us at our return to
Britain, he cannot return in due time before the said first
of November : Therefore we, with advice of our Privy
Council, have thought fit to delay and adjourn the meeting
of the said General Assembly, from the said first of Novem
ber to the fifteenth day of January next to come, one
thousand six hundred and ninety-two years. And that
the members be not put to the trouble of attendance before
that time, we hereby declare the same to be adjourned till
the day foresaid accordingly. Our will is herefore, and we
charge you strictly, and command, that incontenet these
our letters seen, ye pass to the Mercat-cross of Edin
burgh, and whole other Mercat-crosses of the head burghs
of the several shires within this kingdom, and there, in our
name and authority, make publication of the premises that

113
none pretend ignorance : And ordain these presents to be
printed. According to justice, as ye will answer to us
thereupon : The which do we commit to you, conjunctly
and severally, our full power by these our letters, deliver
ing them by you duly execute and indorsat, again to
the bearer. " Given under our signet at Edinburgh, the twenty-
sixth day of October, and of our reign the third
year 1691.
" Per actum Dominorum Secreti concilii, et in
Supplementum Signetti.
" GILB. ELIOT, Cls. Sti, Concilii.
" God Save King William and Queen Mary."
An Assembly, accordingly, did convene on the 1 5th of
January 1692 ; but, after sitting a whole month, evading
the main business for which it was held, — viz., the ad
mission into the Presbyterian Church of such Episcopalian
ministers as were disposed to sign the Confession of Faith,
and conform to Presbyterian government, — that Assembly
teas dissolved by royal authority. As no account of that
Assembly's proceedings is given among the printed acts of
the Church, the particulars are to be found only in the
MS. copies, from one of which (duly authenticated)
the following account of its dissolution is transcribed.*
Upon Saturday the 13th of February 1692, the Assem
bly being met and constituted, the Earl of Lothian, then
royal Commissioner, spoke as follows : —
" ' Moderator, what I said last had so little success, that
I intend to give you no more trouble of that nature ; only
this, you have now sit about a month, which was a com
petent time both for to have done what was the principal
, designe in calling this Assembly (of uniting with your
brethren), and to have done what else related to the
Churchi but his Majesty, perceiving no great inclinations
among you to comply with his demands, hath commanded
me to dissolve this present General Assembly ; so I, in
their Majesties' name and authority, do dissolve this
General Assembly.' Whereupon the moderator asked his
Grace, if this Assembly was dissolved, without nameing a
diet for another? To this his Grace made return in these

Vide Supplement.

114
words : ? His Majesty will appoint another General Assem
bly in due time, wherewith you will be timeously adver
tised.' Upon this, the moderator desyring of his Grace that
he might be heard a few words, his Grace told him that
he could not hear him as moderator, only as a private per
son. The moderator answered, ' In whatever capacity your
Grace pleases, I beg to be heard a few words.' His
Grace replyed, ' that as a private person he might speak ;'
whereupon the moderator delivered himself as follows :
' May it please your Grace, This Assembly, and all the mem
bers of this national Church, are under the greatest obliga
tions possible to his Majesty, and if his Majesty's commands
to us had been in any or all our concerns in the world, we
would have laid our hands upon our mouths and been silent ;
but they being for a dissolution of this Assembly, without in
dicting of another to a certain day ; therefore (having been
moderator to this Assembly), I in their name, they adher
ing to me, humbly crave leave to declare, that the office
bearers in the house of God have a spiritual intrinsick
power from Jesus Christ, the only head of the Church,
to meet in Assemblies about the affairs thereof, the neces
sity of the same being first represented to the magistrat.
And further, I humbly crave, that the dissolution of this
Assembly, without indicting a new one to a certain day,
may not be to the prejudice of our yearly General Assem
blies, granted us by the laws of the kingdom.' Here
the members rose up, and with one voice, declared their
adherence to what the moderator had said ; whereupon
the moderator, turning himself to the Assembly, cryed,
• Brethren, let us pray : ' but the members, by a general
cry, pressed to name a diet for the next General Assembly.
Whereupon the moderator said, that ' If they pleased, the
next General Assemblymight meet here at Edinburgh upon
the third Wednesday of Agust 1 693 ;' and the members
again with one voice declare their approbation thereof.
Then the moderator having ordered silence, concluded
with prayer, and singing the 133d psalm, and pro
nouncing the blessing."
The time thus appointed by the moderator, — after the
Assembly was dissolved, and when, consequently, all who
were present were merely private men, and not a General
Assembly lawfully met, — was the 3d Wednesday of August
1693. No Assembly, however, was held of that date.
The " spiritual intrinsic power " of the Church to hold
Assemblies without the royal sanction evaporated. There

115
was no attempt even to hold one ; and the clergy of those
days prudently succumbed to the supreme power of the
state. On the 27th -of September 1693, King William, by
proclamation, indicted another Assembly, to be held on
the 16th of December following ; but before that time
arrived, the following proclamation was issued, adjourn
ing it : —
Letter from King to the Privy Council, to indict a Ge
neral Assembly. fPrivy Council Record, p. 140.]
" WILLIAM R.
" Right trustie and right well heloved cousin and coun-
cellor, right trusty and entirely beloved cousin and coun-
cellor, and right trusty and right well beloved cousins and
councellors, &c. We greet you well. Whereas the reall
good of our people, both in their religious and civill
concerns, is, and ever shall be, verie dear unto us; and
that we are hopefull that the meeting of a Generall Assem
bly of the Church of that our antient kingdome may
contribute thereto, we have thought fitt to appoynte a
meeting thereof to be at Edinburgh the sixth day of
December nixt ensuing. It is therefore Our will and
pleasure, and We doe hereby require and authorize you to
issue furth a proclamatione in our name, 'with all con
venient dilligence, indicting a meeting of the said Generall
Assembly to be at our said towne of Edinburgh, the sixth
, day of December nixt to come, for doing whereof, this
shall be' your warrand. .And so we bid you heartily
farewell. " Given at our camp at St Quintin Liniek, ithe seventh
¦day of September, old style, 1693., and of our
reigne the fifth year.
"By his Majesties command,
"(Sicsubscr.) JA. STEVENSON."
In obedience to this order the Privy Council issued
the following proclamation indictiag a General Assem
bly:— ¦" William and Mary, by the Grace of God, King and
Queen of Great Brittaiue, France, and Ireland, Defenders
of the Faith, to our Lyon King-at-armes and his brethren,

116
heraulds, macers of our Privie Councell, pursevants,
messengers-at-annes, our sheriffs in that part, conjunctlie
and severallie, specially constitute, greeting : Forasmuchas
the reall good of our people, both in their religious and
civill concerns, is ever and shall be very dear unto us, and
that we are hopefull the meeting of a Generall Assembly
of the Church of this our antient kingdome may contribute
thereto ; therefore, we, with advyce of our Privie Councell,
doeappoynteandordainea Generall Assembly of the Church
of this our antient kingdome, to meet and conveen at
Edinburgh the sixth day of December nixt to come, and
require and command all elections usuall and necessary
for the said Generall Assembly to be dewly and tymouslie
made, and all persones concerned, to attend the said meet
ing, day and place foresaid, as they will be answerable.
Our will is herefore, and we charge you strickly and
command, that incontinent these our letters seen, ye pass to
the Mercat-cross of Edinburgh, and whole remanent crosses
of the head burghs of the several shires and stewartries
within this our realme, and there, be open proclamatione,
make intimation of the premisses, that none may pretend
ignorance; and ordaines these presents to be printed. Given
under our signet at Edinburgh, the twenty-seventh day of
September, and of our reign the fifth year 1693.
" (Sic mbscribitur ut sederunt)" viz, —
I LO. CHANCELLOR.
D. HAMILTONE.
E. SOUTHERLAND.
E. LINLITHGOW.
E. FORFAR.
VIS. TARBAT.
LO. STRATHNAVER.
LO. ROSS.
LO. BEILHAVEN.
LO. CRMIACHAEL.
LO. POLLWARTH.
LO. ADVOCAT.
LO. JUSTICE CLARK.
W. ERA. LONTGOERY.
LO. POLOCK.]
The meeting of the Assembly, however, was still fur
ther adjourned, as appears by the following documents.

117
" Lettkr from the King ordering Adjournment of the
" General Assembly.
" At Edinburgh, the twentie-eight day of November
1693 years, — (p. 181 of Privy Council Record,)
"The following letter being redd, approven, and signed,
was ordered to be recorded, whereof the tenor followes : —
" ( Suprascribitur ) WILLIAM R.
" Right trustie and right well beloved cousin and coun-
cellor, &c. We greet you well. Whereas, by our former
letter, wee did authorize and requyre you to issue out a
proclamatione, for calling a Generall Assemblie to meet at
Edinburgh the sixth day of December next, we are
firmly resolved that Generall Assemblys shall meet accord
ing to law. But we being detained beyond our expect-
atione from Brittaiue, and hoping that a delay may be
more for the advantage of the Church in that our antient
kingdome and the good of our service, because thereby
we shall have tyme fully to instruct our Commissioner, and
matters may be in more readiness and better prepared ;
Therefore it is our pleasure, and we doe authorize and re
quyre you to emitt a proclamatione in our names, adjourning
the meeting of the Generall Assembly, from the sixth day of
December next, to the twenty-nynth day of March 1694
years, at Edinburgh, and that such intimationes be speedily
made, as may certifie the commissioners from the severall
firesbytries, not to give their attendance till the 29th
day of March forsaid : For doing whereof, this our
royall letter to be recorded in your books, shall be to you
a sufficient warrant. Given at our court at Kensingtouiie,
the 24 day of November 1693, and of our reigne the
5th year. " By his Majesty's command.
"(Sicsubr.) JO. DALRYMPLE."
" The following proclamatione being redd, approven, and
signed, was ordered to be recorded : —
" A Proclamation adjourning the General Assembly.
" William and Mary, by the Grace of God, King and
Queen of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defenders
of the Faith, To
Macers of our Privy Council, or messengers-
at-arms, our sheriffs in that part, conjunctly and severally,

118
specially constituted, greeting : Forasmuch as we being
firmly resolved that the General Assembly of the Church
of this our antient kingdom should meet according to law,
did, by our proclamation of the date the twenty-seventh
day of September last, indict and appoint a General Assem
bly of the said Church to meet at Edinburgh the sixth day
of December next ; and We, considering that Our being
detained from Britain beyond our expectation, did ne
cessarily hinder the timely ordering of what concerned
the meeting of the said Assembly, and hoping that a
delay may be more for the advantage of the Church
in this our antient kingdom, and the good of our ser
vice, seeing thereby we shall have time fully to instruct
our Commissioner, and better prepare and have matters in
readiness for the meeting of the said General Assembly :
Therefore, we, with advice of the lords of our Privy Coun
cil, have thought fit to delay and adjourn the meeting of
the said General Assembly of the Church of this our antient
kingdom from the said sixth day of December next, to
meet at Edinburgh the twenty-ninth day of March one
thousand six hundred and ninety-four years. And that the
members of the said Assembly be not put to the trouble of
attending before that time, we do hereby declare the same
to be adjourned to the said twenty-ninth day of March
accordingly. Our will is herefore, and we charge
you strictly, and command, that incontinent these our
letters seen, ye pass to the Mercat-cross of Edinburgh,
and whole other Mercat-crosses of the head burghs of the
several shires, within this kingdom, and there, in Our name
and authority, make publication of the premises, that none
pretend ignorance ; and ordaines these presents to be
printed. " Given under our signet at Edinburgh, the twenty-
eight day of November, and of our reigne the
fifth year 1693.
" Per actum Dominorum Secreti Concilii, et in
Supplementum Signeti.
"GILB. ELIOT, Cls. Sti. Concilii.
" God Save King William and Queen Mary."
A General Assembly was held, in terms of the fore
going proclamation, on the 29th of March 1694, and
another indicted by the Commissioner at the dissolution

119
thereof, to be held on the first Thursday of April 1695.
But before the meeting thereof, it was adjourned, in
obedience to the following royal mandate : —
"Letter from the King to the Privy Council to adjourn
the General Assembly.
" William R — Right trusty and right wel beloved cou
sin and councellor, &c. Whereas our Commissioner to the
last Generall Assemblie did indict a new Generall Assemblie
to meet the day of Apryle next, and our affaires not
allowing it to meet at that tyme. It is our will, and we doe
authorize and requyre you to emit a proclamatione, in our
name, adjourning the meeting of the Generall Assemblie
from the day of Apryle next, to the eleventh day of
Julie next insuing, for doeing whereof this shall be your
warrand ; and so we bid you heartily farewell. Given
at our Court at Kensingtoune, the twentle-third day of
March 1694-5, and of our reigne the sixth year.
" By his Majesty's command,
« Sic subs. JO. DALRYMPLE."
This was followed by a
" Pkoclamation adjourning the Generall Assemblie from
the day of Apryll next to the 11 day of July
1695.
" William, by the Grace of God, King of Great Brittaine,
France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, to our Lyon
King-at-arms and his brethren, heraulds, macers of our
Privy Councill, pursevants, messengers-at-armes, our she
riffs in that part, conjunctly and severallie, speclallle con
stitut, greeting. Forasmuchas we, by our Commissioner
to the last Generall Assemblie, did indict anew Generall
Assemblie to meet the day of Apryle next, and our
affaires not allowing It to meet at that tyme, it Is our will,
and we have thought fitt to adjourne the meeting of the
Generall Assemblie from the said day of Apryle next,
to the eleventh day of July thereafter; Therfore we, with
advyce of the Lords of our Privie Councill, doe hereby
adjourne the said Generall Assemblie untill the said eleventh
day of July next ensueing, and then to meet at Edinburgh:
Requyreing all the members of the said Assemblie to
attend the said day. Our will is herefore, and we charge

120
you strictly, and command, that incontinent thir our let-'
ters seen, ye pass to the Marcat-cross of Edinburgh, and
whole other Marcat-crosses of the head burghs of the
severall shyres within this kingdome, and there, in our
name and authority, make publicatione hereof, that none
may pretend ignorance ; and ordaines these presents to be
printed. Given under our signet at Edinburgh, the
twenty-eight day of March, and of our reigne the sixth
year 1695 years.
" Sic Subscribitur. ANNANDALE, P.
MORTON.
FORFAR. BREADALBANE. TARBAT.
STRATHNAVER.CARMICHAEL.
JA. STEUART.
JO. LAUDER."
Another adjournment, however, of this Assembly took
place In consequence of the following royal letter and
proclamation : —
" Holyrudehouse, the nynth day of July 1695 —
(A very full meeting of Council).
" Letter from the King, adjourning the General As
sembly.
" The letter, after insert, being read in presence of the
Lords of his Majestie's Privy Councill, was ordered to be
recorded in their books, whereof the tenor followeth : —
" William R. — Right trusty and wel beloved cousin
and councillor, &c. We greet you well. Whereas, by your
letter in March last, the meeting of our Generall Assemblie
was put off to the eleventh day of July next, and our par
liament not being now to meet as soon as was then Intended,
and it being necessary that we know what shall be done in
parliament about Church matters before we can give the
necessary orders and Instructiones for the meeting of the
Assemblie : which orders and Instructiones, because of the
shortness of tyme will interveen betwixt the parliament
and this Asemblie, and the distance we shall be at, and the

121
uncertainty of passadge, may happen to come too late : it
is therefore Our Will and pleasure, that, in case you receive
noe orders from us before the said eleventh day of July
for the meeting of the Generall Assemblie at that tyme,
you emitt a proclamatione for adjourning the same to the
twentie day of November next to come, against which
tyme you may expect the necessary orders concerning the
meeting of it. So we bid you heartily farewell. Given at
our court at Kensingtoune, the seventeenth day of Apryll
JajvjSs nynty and five years, and of our reigne the seventh
year. " By his Majesty's command,
" Sic subscribitur. J. JOHNSTOUNE."
" After reading of the above letter, the following pro
clamatione was immediatlie prepared, and the samine being
read, voted, and approven, was ordered to be recorded,
whereof the tenor followeth : —
" A Proclamatione adjourning the Generall Assemblie
till the twenty of November, Jajvi& nynty and fyve
years.
" William, by the Grace of God, King of Great Brit
taine, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, to our
Lyon King-at-armes and his brethren, heraulds, macers of
our Privy Council, persevants, messengers-at-arms, our
sherriffs, in that part, conjunctly and severally, specially
constitute, greeting : Forasmuchas we, by our proclama
tione of the date the twenty-eight day of March last by-
past, did, for the causes therein specified, adjourne the
present current Assemblie of this Church till the eleventh
day of July instant ; and seeing the meeting and conti-
nowing of this present sessione of parliament for so long a
tyme, together with our absence in Flanders, and severall
other reasons, doe oblidge us to contlnow the said adjourn
ment from the said eleventh day of July instant to the
twenty day of November next to come : Therefore, we,
with advyse of the Lords of our Privy Councill, doe hereby
adjourne the said Generall Assemblie untill the said twenty
day of November next to come, — appoynting the same to
meet at that tyme at Edinburgh, and requyreing all the
members of the Assemblie to attend that day. Our will

122
is herefore, and we charge you strictly, and command,
that incontinent thir our letters seen, ye pass to the Mar-
cat-cross of Edinburgh, and whole other head burghs of
the severall shyres within this kingdome, and there, in our
name and authority, make publicatione hereof, that none
may pretend ignorance ; and ordaines these presents to be
printed. " Given under our signett at Edinburgh, the nynth day
of July, and of our reigne the seventh year Jajvi&
nynty and fyve years.
"Sic subscribitur. ANNANDALE, P.
QUEENSBERRIE. DOUGLAS.ARGYLE.
MORTON.CASSILIS.
LINLITHGOW.
LOTHIAN. KINTORE. BELHAVEN.
RO. SINCLAIR."
There was still another adjournment of the meeting of
Assembly by royal letter and proclamation.
" Edinburgh, Tuesday, 5 Nov. 1695.
*' The following letter being read, was ordained to be
recorded ; and in the meantyme appoynted a proclamatione
to be prepared in the tearmes thereof: Follows the tenor
of the letter :^
" Sic supra srcibitur.
" William R. — Right trusty, &c. We greet you well.
Whereas we had appoynted the Generall Assemblie of the
Church in that our antient kingdome of Scotland, to meet
the twenty day of November next. But not haveing
tyme at present to prepare what were necessarie for the
said Assemblie, we have thought fitt to delay the meeting
thereof for some tyme ; and that the members may not be
put to unnecessary trouble, we doe requyre and authorize
you to emitt a proclamatione for adjourning the said
Generall Assemblie from the said twenty day of November
next to the 17 day of December next, and you are to
order the members thereof to attend on the said day ; for

123
doeing whereof this shall be your warrant ; — So we bid
you heartily farewell. Given at our court at Althorp,
the twenty-sixth day of October, Javj& nynety and fyve
years, and of our reigne the seventh year.
" By his Majesty's command,
" Sic subscribitur, J. JOHNSTONE."
In consequence of this letter, the Privy Council issued
the following proclamation adjourning the Generall
Assemblie : — "Edinburgh, 7 Nov. 1695.
" The following proclamatione being read, was approven
and signed, and ordered to be recorded, whereof the tenor
followeth : —
"A Proclamation adjourning the Generall Assemblie
of this Church to the seventeenth day of December next
Jajvl& nynty and fyve years-
" William, by the Grace of God, King of Great Brittain,
France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, to our Lyon
King-at-armes and his brethren, heraulds, macers of our
Privy Council, pursevants, messengers-at-armes, our she
riffs in that part, conjunctly and severally, specially con
stitut, greeting : Forasmuchas we, by our proclamatione
of the date the nynth day of July last, did adjourne the
present currant Assemblie of this Church to the twenty day
of November instant ; but not having tyme at present to
prepare what were necessarie for the said Assemblie, we
have thought fitt to delay the meeting thereof for some
tyme ; and that the members may not be put to unneces
sary trouble we, with advice of the Lords of our Privy
Councill, doe hereby adjourne thepres'^nt currant Generall
Assemblie of the Church from the said twenty day of No
vember Instant, to the seventeen day of December next
ensuing, appoynting the same to meet at Edinburgh on
that day. And requyring all the members thereof to
attend the meeting accordingly. Our will is herefore, and
we charge you strictly, and command, that incontinent
these Our letters seen, ye pass to the Marcat-cross of
Edinburgh, and whole other Marcat-crosses of the head
burghs of the severall shyres within this kingdome, and
there, in Our name and authoritie, make publicatione hereof,

124
that none may pretend ignorance ; and ordaines these
presents to be printed. Given under our signet at Edin
burgh, the seventh day of November, and of our reigne
the seventh year.
" Sic subscribitur. TWEEDALE.
SOUTHERLAND.YESTER.
FORFAR.
JA. STUEART.
AD. COCKBURNE.
W. ANSTRUTHER.
RO. SINCLAIR.
AR. MURRAY.
CARMICHAELL."
In obedience to these several proclamations, no General
Assembly was held till the 17th of Dec. 1695, — and
when it did meet, so far from murmuring or remonstrating
against the repeated exercise of the royal prerogative in
adjourning its meeting so frequently, the moderator, as
appears from the printed acts of that Assembly, " did in
the Assemblies name represent to his Grace [the Com
missioner] how great a mercy it was to this Church and
kingdome, that his Majestie had called and countenanced
this national Assemblie with his authority, and honoured
it with a representative of his royal person." To which
the Commissioner replied, " Right Reverend and you the
remanent members of this Assembly, you are now met in
assemblie, conform to the King's appointment,"
These are a few of the documents which tend to prove
the dependence of the Church, as established at the Re
volution, on the civil power of the state ; and since our
attention is directed to the subject by the discussion of
recent assumptions of intrinsic and independent jurisdic
tion in the Church itself, it may not be amiss to note some
further documents which tend to dispell that illusion.
Confining our observations merely to the point of the
royal prerogative in calling and dissolving General As
semblies, (a point which, like some others, it would have
been wise in Churchmen to leave in that state of abeyance
in which they have been allowed to slumber for more
than a century past,) — we may briefly refer to the terms of
the commissions annually granted by successive Sovereigns
to the noblemen by whom they are represented in tlie

125
General Assemblies, as provided for in the act of parlia
ment 1592.
As already remarked, the Assembly of 1690 was con
voked by the authority of parliament. That of 1692
was called by the King's authority, and dissolved by his
Majesty's instructions, — the meeting being abruptly ter
minated, without consulting It, and without convoking
another, — to the great chagrin of its members. Nor was
there another held until parliament again Interposed on
the 18th of April 1693, when in the act of that date
" for settling the quiet and peace of the Church," the
parliament addressed the Sovereigns soliciting their Ma
jesties to call another General Assembly, — thus recog
nising it as one of the undoubted prerogatives of the
crown, so to convoke that supreme judicatory of the
Church, under the constitution then so recently granted
to it. The terms of that address are thus given In the
act of parliament : — " And for the more effectually settling
the quiet and peace of this Church, the estates of parlia
ment do hereby make a humble address to their Majesties,
that they would be pleased to call a General Assembly
for the ordering the affairs of the Church," &c.
With the request in this address, the Sovereigns com
plied, — and hence the indictions and adjournments which
have already been given from the Privy Council record
in the course of the year 1693, and which resulted in the
Assembly, that was opened on the 29th of March 1694.
The commission granted by King William and Queen
Mary to Lord Carmichael, as their representative in that
Assembly, proceeds on this narrative : —
" Quandoquidem nos, Regio nostra animo perpen-
dentes, quam necessarium sit ad religionem reforma-
tionem melius reformatam, Sfc, ut Generalis dicta
Ecclesiee Conventus, Sfc, debite observetur."
And after naming the Commissioner, It thus proceeds : —
" Damus pariter et concedimus illi, sacras nostras
personas et authoritatem regiam representandi, locum-
que nostrum in dicto subsequenti Generali Conventu,
tanquam commissionario nostro, in hunc effectum spe-
cialiter constituto, tenendi, omniaque alia ad imperium
et munus commissionarii, pro Generali Ecclesim Con
ventu peragendi, tam plene adeoque libere in quovis
respectu quam quilibet alius ejusdem supremi muneris
et characteris fecerat, seu quovis tempore retroacto
facere potuerat, atque adeo sicuti nosmetipsi persona-

125
liter presentes facere possemus, plenissimam et amplis-
.simam nostrum potestatem et commission^m, Quce
quidem omnia et singula a dicto Joanne Domino Car
michael in hac nostra commissione prosequenda le
gitime facienda, nos firmiter approbamus, rata habe-
mus et habituri sumus. Omnibus et singulis insuper
antedicti Conventus et Eeclisice Pastoribus et Pres-
byteris et cmteris quibuscunque hujus nostri Regni
subditis, cujuscunque qualitatis seu conditionis, ut
dictum Joannem Dominum Carmichael, tanquam su-
premum nostrum commissionarium, quoad effectum et
modum supra mentionatum, agnoscant revereavtur et
dicto ipsius audientes se prcebeant, stricte mandamus et
imperamus," It is thus plain that the Commissioner of the crown in
the General Assembly is clothed with the full authority
of the Sovereign, within the sphere to which his com
mission extends, — his acts being in accordance with law,
{" legitime facienda,") and that he is warranted to
take such a part in the proceedings of the Assembly as
he may deem fitting in order to keep these in harmony
with the law of the land, and to render them conducive
to the ends for which the Assemblies of the Church are
held.^ The tenor of the commissions granted annually,
continued during the reign of King William III., and,
indeed, continue to the present time, to be couched in
similar language.
As, however, there are some slight variations in the
preambles, we give a short note of those variations during
the reign of William III., in which, it will be observed,
the royal prerogative, in calling General Assemblies, is
unequivocally asserted, — and, being so asserted, has been
gratefully acquiesced in by every General Assembly since
the Revolution, without a single murmuring word against
it appearing on the record of any one Assembly.
The preamble of the commission for the Assembly of
1695-6 is thus expressed: —
" Quandoquidem statuimus Conventum Generalem
EcclesicB antiqui nostri Regni Scotim ad decimum septi-
mum diem mensis Decembris instantis continuari, 4"c.
In the commission of 1698, the terms are, " Quando
quidem ex DECRETO NOSTRO, GeneruUs Ecclesice Con
ventus, Sfc, continuatus erat." In that of 1699, they
are" Quandoquidem Generalem Ecclesice Conventum," ^c.

127
" TKNKHi DECREViMUs," — and In the last commission
granted by King William (1702), thfr commission is
in the same terms with that for 1695-6. In the royal
letter to the Assembly 1697, his Majesty writes thus: —
" The proceedings of the last General Assembly was
very satisfying to Us, which hath encouraged Us to
ALLOW and countenance your meeting now." By these
and the other unequivocal declarations, and the repeated
exertions of the prerogative above detailed, it is demon
strated that the constitutional power of indicting, ad
journing, and dissolving General Assemblies is vested
solely in the Sovereign. Indeed, it were an anomaly
altogether unaccountable, if, while the crown possesses the
undoubted prerogative of calling, proroguing, and dis
solving parliaments, it did not possess the power of con
voking or dissolving any assemblage of a subordinate
character in the kingdom ; and It seems conclusive evi
dence on this subject, that ever since the Revolution, no
General Assembly has ever been held on the authority, or
by the summons of, the Church itself, — nor do its records
bear a single declaration that any Assembly was appointed
by ecclesiastical authority, or that it possesses any such
constitutional power, otherwise than through the authori
tative interposition and exercise of the royal prerogative.
With these cursory remarks, we proceed to exhibit, in
chronological order, all the acts of the Scottish parliament
which were enacted during the period extending from
1691 to 1702, relative to the Established Church of
Scotland ; and these, taken in connection with the par
liamentary proceedings of the two preceding years, com
prise the entire legal " Constitution of the Church of
Scotland, as estabhshed at the Revolution."

128

LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS.

XXIIL
Act for Settling the Quiet and Peace of the Church. June 12, 169S.
Our Soveraign Lord and Lady, the King and Queens Majesties,
¦with advice and consent of the estates of parliament, ratifie, approve,
and perpetually confirm the fifth act of the second session of this
current parliament, intituled, act ratifying the Confession of Faith,
aud settling Presbyterian Church government, in the whole heads,
articles, and clauses, thereof; and do further statute and ordain, that
no person be admitted, or continued for hereafter, to be a minister or
preacher, within this Church, unless that he having first taken and
subscribed the oath of alledgianre, and subscribed the assurance in
manner appointed by another act of this present session of parliament,
made thereanent t Do also subscribe the Confession of Faith, rati
fied in the foresaid 5 act of the second session of this parliament, de
claring the same to be the confession of his faith, and that he ownes tho
doctrine therein contained, to be the true doctrine which he will con
stantly adhere to : As likewise, that he ownes and acknowledges
Presbyterian Church government, as settled by the foresaid fifth act
of the second session of this parliament, to be the only government of
this Church, and that he will submit thereto, aud concur therewith,
and never endeavour, directly, or indirectly the prejudice, or subver
sion thereof. And their Majesties, with advice aud consent foresaid,
statute and ordain, that uniformity of worship, and of the administra
tion of all public ordinances vrithin this Church be observed by all
the saids ministers and preachers, as the samen are at present per
formed, and allowed therein, or shall be hereafter declared by the
authority of the same, & that no minister or preacher be admitted or
continued for hereafter, unless that he subscribe to observe, and do
actually observe the foresaid uniformity : And for the more effectual
settling the quiet and peace of this Church, the estates of parliament -
do hereby make a humble address to their Majesties, that they would
be pleased to call a general assembly, for the ordering the affairs of
Church, and to tho end that all the present ministers possessing
churches, not yet admitted to the exercise of the foresaid Church
government, conform to the said act, and who shall qualifie them
selves iu manner foresaid, and shall apply to the said assembly, or the
other Church judicatures competent, in an orderly way, each man for
himself, be received to partake with thera in the government thereof:
Certifying such as shal not qualifie themselves, and apply to the said
assembly, or other judicatures, within the space of thirty days after
meeting of the said first assembly, in manner foresaid, that they may
ba deposed by the sentence of the said assembly and other judicatures
tam ab ojfieio quam a beneficio ; and withal declaring, that if any of the
Balds ministers who have not been hitherto received into the govern
ment of the Church, shall offer to qualifie themselves, and to apply in
manner foresaid, they shall have their Majesties All protection, ay
and while they shall be admitted, and received in manner foresaid ;
providing always that this act, and the benefit thereof, shall no ways
be extended to such of the said ministers as are scandalous, erronious.

129
negligent, or insufficient, and against whom the same shall bo verified,
within the space of thirty days after the said application ; but these
and all others iu like manner guilty, are hereby declared to be lyable
and subject to tho power and censure of the Church as accords : And
to the effect, that the representation of this Church, in its general
assemblies, may be the more equal in all time coming, recommends it
to the first assembly that shall be called ; to appoint ministers to be
sent as commissioners from every presbytery, not iu equal numbers,
which is manifestly unequal where presbyteries are so ; but in a
due proportion to the churches & parochins within every presbytery,
as they shall judge convenient ; and it is hereby declared, that all
schoolmasters, and teachers of youth in schools, are, & shall be lyable
to the tryal, judgment, and censure of the presbyteries of the bounds,
for their sufficiency, qualifications, and deportment in the said office.
And lastly, their Majesties, with advice and consent foresaid, do
hereby statute and ordain, that the lords of their Majesties privy
council, aud all other magistrats, judges, and officers of justice, give
all due assistance'for making the sentences and censures of the Church,
and judicatures thereof to be obeyed, or otherways effectual as accords.

XXVI.
Act anent Parsonages. June 12, 1693.
Our Soveraign Lord and Lady, the King and Queens Majesties,
considering, that by the twenty-third act of the second session of this
current parliament, concerning patronages. It is statute and declared,
that the right of the teinds of paroches, whereof patrons had formerly tha
presentation by that act abolished ; and which teinds are notheretably
disponed, should, by vertue of that act, belong to the patrons, with the
burden always of the ministers stipends, and others therein exprest ;
And that it is just and reasonable, that the said benefit should be
extended to the patrons of all parsonages, and other benefices without
exception : . Do therefore, with advice aud consent of the estates of
parliament, statute, ordain, aud declare, that the foresaid right of the
teinds granted to patrons, as said is, shall be extended to the teinds of
all parsonages, and other benefices ; and that the same shall belong to
the patrons, with the burden specified in the said act ; and further
with the burden of provisions, to two ministers in one paroch, if the
commission shall think fit ; providing always, that where the beneficed
person being a minister, having a cure, is in possession of the foresaids
teinds as titular thereot^ he shall continue and remain in the possession
thereof, ay and wliile the foresaid patron shall obtain a just and rea
sonable stipend, to be modified and setled upon him, by the com
mission for plantation of kirks iu lieu of his said right to the teinds
hereby granted to the patron as said is : which right shall be, without
prejudice of any other seperat right, that the said patrons either have,
or may have to the said teinds as accords of the law.

XXII.
Act against Intruding into Churches without a legal Call and
Admission thereto. July 5, 1695.
Our Soveraign Lord considering that ministers and preachers their
intruding themselves into vacant churches, possessing of manses and
benefices, and exercising any part of the ministerial function in pa-

130
roches, without a legal call and admission to the said churches, is an
high contempt of the law, and of a dangerous consequence tending to
perpetuat schism. Therefore, his Majesty with advice and consent of
the estates of parliament, statutes and declares that whoever shall
intrude themselves into any church, or shall possess manse or benefice,
or shall exercise any part of the ministerial function within any paroch,
without an orderly call from the heretors and eldership, and legal
admission from the presbytery within whose bounds it lies, shall bo
incapable of enjoying any church, or stipend, or benefice within this
kingdom, for the space of seven years after their removal from tha
Church, and quitting possession of the stipend and benefice into which
they intruded : Likeas, his Majesty with advice and consent foresaid,
does hereby remit the execution of this present act, to sheriffs,
Stewarts, baillies of bailliaries, and regalities, and their deputs, and to
magistrats of burghs royal, who are hereby authorised and required,
to remove and declare uncapable ut supra, all these, who shall hereafter
intrude into churches within their respective jurisdictions, upon com
plaint from the presbytry, or any person having warrand from the
presbytrie within whose bounds the saids intrusions shall happen to
be made hereafter, and that upon citation of ten days : Ordaining
hereby letters of homing and caption to be direct in communi forma
upon decreets to be given by the saids inferior judges, for compelling
the saids intruders to remove^from the saids churches and manses,
and to quite possession of the saids stipends and benefices, and to
desist and cease from exercising any ministerial acts within the saids
paroches, into which they shall hereafter intrude. Likeas, his Ma-.
jesty doth hereby recommend to the lords of his Majesties privy
council to remove all these who have already, since the establishment
of this present Church government, intruded into vacant churches,
without an orderly call from the heretors and eldership of the parocb,
aud a legal admission from the presbytrie, within whose bounds tha
saids churches lies : As also, to take some effectual course for stopping
and hindering these ministers, who are, or shall be hereafter deposed.
by the judicatories of this present established Church; from preaching
or exercising any act of their ministerial function, which they cannot
do after they are deposed, without a high contempt of the authority of
the Church, and of the laws of the kingdom establishing the same.

XXVII.
Act concerning the Church. July 16, 1695.
Our Soveraign Lord, being sensible of the hurt and mischief that
may ensue, upon the exposing of the peoples minds to the influences of
such ministers, who refuse to give the proofs required by law of their
good affection to the government ; and withal desirous, that in the first
place, all gentle and easie methods should be used to reclaim men to
their duty, whereby the present establishment of this Church may be '
more happily preserved, the knowledge of the truth, with the practice
of true piety more successfully advanced, and the peace and quiet of the
kingdom more effectually setled : hath thought good to allow, and with
advice and consent of the estates of parliament, hereby allowes to all
ministers that were at the time of his Majesties happy accession to
the crown, and have since continued actual ministers in particular
paroches, and no sentence either of deposition or deprivation past
against them, and have not yet qualified themselves conform to tha
act of parliament 1 693, intituled, act for taking the oath of allegisnc*.

131
and the assurance, a new and farther day,— viz., the first of September
in this present year 1C95, to come in & to take the said oath of allegi
ance, & to subscribe the same with the assurance betwist & the said
day, and that either before the sheriff, or sheriff-deput of the shires,
or the provost or bailies of the respective burghs, or any other inferior
magistrat of the bounds where they live, or before any privy coun
cillor, with a certificat under the hand of the inferior judges, or privy
councillor, to bo reported to the lords of his Majesties privy council,
or their clerk within the space of twenty-one days after the date of
the said certificat : Declaring that all such as shall duly come in
and qualify themselves as said is, and shall behave themselves
worthily in doctrine, life and conversation as becomes ministers of tha
gospel, shall have and enjoy his Majesties protection, as to their re
spective kirks and benefices or stipends, they always containing them
selves within the limits of their pastoral charge within their said
paroches, without offering to exerce any power, either of licensing, or
ordaining ministers, or any part of government in general assemblies,
synods, or presbytries, unless they be first duely assumed by a com
petent Church judicatory ; in which case it is hereby farder declared,
that the foresaid ministers first qualifying themselves as above, may
be assumed by the respective Church judicatories to which they
belong, and shall apply to partake with them in the present esta
blished government thereof: Providing nevertheless, that as the said
ministers who shall qualifie themselves as said is, are left free to
apply or not, to the foresaid Church judicatories : So the said Church
judicatories are hereby also declared free to assume, or not to assume
the foresaid ministers though qualified, as they shall see cause : With
certification, that such of the said ministers, as shall come in betwixt
and the said day, are hereby, and by the force of this present act, ipso
facto, deprived of their respective kirks and stipends, and the same
declared vacant without any further sentence. And his Majesty being
purposed, that his grace shall be still patent to all ; doth furder declare
and statute, with consent foresaid, that at what lime soever any mini
ster, either setled in a church or not, shall upon application, be judged
fit to be assumed by any competent Church judicatory as said is, tho
foresaid minister, upon a certificat thereof from the said judicatory,
shall be admitted and allowed to qualify himself, by taking the oath of
allegiance, and subscribing the .«ame with the assurance in manner
foresaid, albeit the said first of September be past and elapsed. And
his Majesty, with consent foresaid, allows, declares, and statutes as
above, any thing in the foresaid act 1693, or in the other act of the
same session of parliament, intituled, act for setling the quiet and
peace of the Church, notwithstanding. And his Majesty with consent
foresaid, for the greater encouragement of all ministers of the gospel,
not only ratifies the act of parliament 1669, forbidding all suspensions
of special decreets and charges for ministers stipends, or the rents of
their benefices, except on production of discharges, or upon consigna
tion in manner therein provided : But further statutes and ordains,
that there be no advocation, or sist of process granted of actions for
the said stipends, or rents of benefices when pursued before inferior
judges, and that in the case of a decreet, there be neither suspension
nor sist of execution granted, except on production of clear discharges
or consignation as said is, & if any suspension be past, that the same
be summarly discussed at the instance of the charger without abiding
the order & course of the roll : & that if the letters be found orderly
proceeded the suspender be also decerned at least in a fifth part more
than the sums charged for, with what more the loi-ds shall judge
reasonable to be payed to the charger for his expense and damnage.

132
and if any minister shall happen to pursue few his stipend by way of
ordinary action before the lords, it is hereby farther ordained, that
the same be summarly proceeded in, and discussed withoiit abiding
the' course of the roll. And lastly, for a more ample declaration of
an act made in this session of parliament, for encouraging of preachers
at vacant churches be north Forth, his Majesty with consent foresaid,
extends the same not only to preachers who are not setled in churches,
but also to such ministers who though setled in churches, are yet sent
from time to time from any presbytery or synod of this Church, with
out their own presbytery, to supply: the said vacancies, to the effect,
that the said ministers setled, as well as the said preachers not setled,
may equally have the benefit of the said act, in the terms thereof.

II.
Act for Preventing ef Disorders in the Supplying and Planting
of Vacant Churches. August 30, 1698.
Our Soveraign Lord, with advice and consent of the estates of
parliament, for remeeding.the godless abuse of rableing, that of late
hath so frequently happened in opposition to ministers orderly sent
to supply vacant churches, and for. facilitating of the supplying and
planting of vacant churches, and removing all impediments and dis
orders, that may obstruct the same, strictly prohibites and discharges
all persons whatsomever, to make any opposition by rableing, tumult
or any otner manner of violence, to any minister lawfully authorized
and sent to preach at any vacant church within the kingdom, either
for supplying of the said vacancy, or to exerce the ministerial function
as fixed minister of the paroch, and that under the pains of a hundred
lib. upon every heretor or liferentcr, and of fifty merks upon any
other unlanded person toties quoties, and for such delinquentis as are not
able to pay, that they shall be punished in their, persons, as the lords
of privy council shall see cause; and farder for the better repressing
of the foresaid opposition by rableing, tumult or any other manner of
violence. His Majesty with advice and consent foresaid, ratifies and
extends to the caise thereof, the seventh act of the parliament 1633,
intituled, act anent invading of ministers, and that in manner and with
the alterations following : And therefore statutes and ordains, that
wherever any such rableing or tumult happens, the heretors and life-
renters in whose bounds whether within or without the paroch, any of
the persons delated and accused as guilty of, or accessary to the
same duels or resides, shall be holden upon intimation made to them
by the minister injured, or by any in name of the presbytery who
sent him, to produce the foresaids persons guilty, and that they may bo
conveened before the lords of his Majesties privy council for that
effect. Certifying the saids heretors and liferenters, that if they
either failzie to produce the saids persons, if residing within their
bounds when the foresaid intimation shall be made, or if they shall
suffer the saids persons withdrawing or absenting the time of the said
intimation, thereafter to reside and haunt openly within their bounds
by the space of twenty days; then and in these cases, the saids here
tors and liferenters shall be esteemed connivers with the delinquents
and lyable as .guilty, art and part with them in their foresaid delin
quency ; and because notwithstanding of the act and proclamation of
council made in the year 1690, for the delivering of the keyes of vacant
churches to the presbvteries, or the persons having their order, the
persons havers thereof do shift the same from hand to hand : There
fore his Majesty with iidvico ancl consent foresaid, statutes and ordains.

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