AN ORDINANCE For the ejecting of Scandalous, Ignorant and Insufficient MINISTERS AND School-Masters.
ORdered by his Highness the Lord Protector, and His Council, That this Ordinance be forthwith Printed and Published.
London, Printed by William du-Gard and Henry Hills, Printers to His Highness the Lord Protector, 1654.
AN ORDINANCE For the Ejection of Scandalous, Ignorant and Insufficient Ministers & Schoolmasters.
WHereas by the continuance of divers scandalous & insufficient Ministers and School-Masters in many Churches, Chappels and publique Schools within this Nation, the more effectual propagation of the Gospel, and settlement of a godly and painful Ministry, is much obstructed, [Page 596] and no Authority now in force for removing such Ministers and School-masters; For remedy thereof, Be it Ordained by His Highness the Lord Protector, by and with the consent of His Council, That the persons hereafter named, shall be and are hereby appointed and constituted Commissioners for and within the respective Counties within England and Wales, for the ends and purposes hereafter in and by this Ordinance expressed and directed; That is to say,
Bedford.
For the County of Bedford, Samuel Brown Serjeant at Law, John Harvey, John Okey, Richard Edwards, Peter Neal, John Neal, Joseph Barbor, St. John Charnock, John Cockayn, Edmund Wingate, Samuel Bedford, Francis Astrey, Richard Wagstaff, Gaius Squire, Edward Cater, Esqs Peter Malory, Gent. John Crook, John Grew of Bedford.
Berks.
For the county of Berks, Philip Lord Wharton, Samuel Dunch of Puzey, Cornelius Holland, Arthur Evelin of Bradfield, [...] Trapham of Abington, Thomas Wood of Windsor, [...] Stroud of Ruscum, Esqs; Major Richard Fincher of Cheetly, Mr. Angel Bell of Ockingham, Mr. Nutkin of Ockingham, Major Francis Allen of Abington, Mr. Mills of Hungerford, Robert Stanton, Samuel Bellingham of Redding, Esqs Colonel Christopher Whitchcot Governor of Windsor, Samuel Wightwick Esq; Mr. Cook of Wallingford, Mr. Rusden of Wallingford, Mr. Thomas Fettiplace, [Page 597] Thomas Cox of Stanford, John Collins of Betterton, Robert Lush of Sparshalt, Andrew Keep of West-Hendred, Philip Allen of Wantage, Thomas Stanton of Upton, George Lambole of Redding, Esquires.
Bucks.
For the county of Bucks, Philip Lord Wharton, Philip Skippon Major General, Isaac Pennington Alderman of London, Richard Ingoldsby Esq; Thomas Scot Esq; Christopher Eggleton Esq; John Deveril Esq; Anthony Ratcliff Esq; George Fleetwood Esq; William Grange of St. Leonard, Thomas White Esq; Henry Whitbread, William Scot, Esq; Richard Baldwin Gent. William Grimesdale Gent. Francis Russel Esq; Edmond West, Simon Mayn, Richard Beke, Esqs
Cambridge and Huntington, with the Isle of Ely.
For the county of Cambridge and Huntington, with the Isle of Ely, Henry Lord Cromwel, Henry Lawrence Lord President of His Highness Council, John Disbrow Esq; Edward Mountague Esq; John Thurloe Esq; Stephen Phesant Esq; [...] Pickering of Cambridge, Richard Tyms Alderman of Cambridge, Alderman French, Robert Castle Esq; Thomas Bendish, Joseph Eversden, Richard Stayn Doctor of Physick, Francis Russel Esq; Edward Leeds of Croxton Gent. Isaac Disbrow, John Lowrey, Henry Pickering Esq; Mr. Bryan Alderman of Cambridge, Samuel Spaulding, Robert Vinter, Griffith Lloyd, Gentlemen, [Page 598] Nicholas Pedley Esq; Gervase Fulwood, Doctor Syncots, Ralph Mallory.
Chester.
For the county of Chester, Humphrey Mackworth Esq; Sir William Brereton Baronet; Sir George Booth Baronet; Sir Henry Delves Baronet; Robert Duckenfield Esq; Thomas Manwaring Esq; Jonathan Brewen Esq; Henry Birkenhead, John Crew of Utkinton Esqs Mr. John Ratcliff of Chester, William Tuchet Esq; John Lee of Booth Esq; Robert Gregg, James Gartfide, Nicholas Goulborn, Calven Bruen Alderman of Chester, Peter Leigh Alderman of Chester, Richard Green Esq; Richard Wright Gent. Edward Bradshaw Major of Chester.
Cornwal.
For the county of Cornwal, Francis Rous Esq; Anthony Rous Esq; Hugh Boscawen Esq; John Moyl Esq; Anthony Nicol Esq; Richard Carter Esq; Andrew Trevil Esq; Thomas Ceely Esq; John Thomas Esq; Richard Penwarn, Esq; Robert Ben [...]et Esq; John Fox of Pendinnis, Thomas Howel [...]f Truro, Peter Ceely, [...] Chattey of Truro.
Cumberland, Durham, Northumberland, and Westmerland.
For the counties of Cumberland, Durham, Northumberland and Westmerland, Philip Lord Wharton, Sir Arthur Hesilrige Baronet; George Fenwick Esq; Charls Howard Esq; Henry Ogle Esq; Robert Fenwick Esq; Ralph Salkeild Esq; William Webb, Andrew Crisp, Edward Nelson, Thomas Craister of Carlisle, John Wood of Cockermouth, Cuthbert Studholm, Thomas Langhorn, [Page 599] William Thompson, William Brisco Esq; John Middleton, Anthony Smith of Durham, Thomas Lacy of Sunderland, Thomas Huntley, Robert Sharp, Robert Lilburn Esq; Alderman Ledgard of Newcastle, Mr. Johnson of Newcastle, William Garnet of Oasterton, William Applegarth, James Cock of Kendal, John Archer of Kendal, Christop: Lister Esq;
Derby and Notingham.
For the counties of Derby, and Notingham, Sir Francis Burdet Baronet; Sir Samuel Sleigh Knight, John Ferrars Esq; James Abney Esq; Thomas Sanders Esq; John Gell junior Esq; Nathaniel Hallows Esq; Robert Mellor, Edward Gell, Jervis Bennet, Nathaniel Barton, Edward Mould, John Spateman, Edward Charleton, Edward Whaley Esq; Gervase Piggot Esq; Edward Cludd, William Wightman of Stoke, Thomas Linley, Charls White, John Oddingsels, Christopher Wilson of Newark, Thomas Bristow of Elston Gent. Richard Trueman, Philip Lacock of Stoke Esq;
Devon and Excester.
For the county of Devon and Excester, John Disbrow Esq; Arthur Upton Esq; Thomas Reynel Esq; Thomas Sanders Esq; John Blackmore, Esq; James Erisie Esq; John Elford, Henry Hatsel, John Copleston, John Serl, William Morris, Esq; John Plea of Dartmouth, Christopher Ceely, Justinian Peard, Martin Parris of Plymouth, John Wollacomb, Rowland Whiddon, Thomas Bampfield, James Pearl, Esqs John Rowe of Crediton, Christopher Martin Esq; John Champneys Esq; William Fry, Robert Roll, Esqs William Yeo of Plimouth, William Bastard Esq;
Dorset and Pool.
For the county of Dorset and Pool, Sir Anthony-Ashley Cooper Baronet, William Sydenham Esq; Sir Walter Earl Knight, John Bingham, Dennis Bond, John Trenchard, Henry Henley, John Whiteway, Thomas Moor, John Bushrod, Walter Foy Esqs Edward Butler, James Dewy, Edward Chick, John Lea, Jeremy Pothecary, George Skutt, William Thornhul, James Mew Gent.
York East-Riding, and Kingston upon Hull.
Thomas Lord Fairfax, John Lambert Major General of the Army, Walter Strickland Esq; Sir Thomas Widdrington Knight, one of the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal; Sir William Constable Baronet, Sir William Strickland, John Lawson Esq; Mr. Stillington, Mr. Bryan Dawson, Captain Bradford, Richard Darley Esq; William Coulson, Thomas Hudson and James Nelthrop, Aldermen of Beverley, Thomas Ness, Robert Leppington, Edward Atkinson, Timothy Lun, Hugh Bethel Esq;
West-Riding and City of York.
Thomas Lord Fairfax, John Lambert Major General of the Army; Sir Thomas Widdrington Knight, one of the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal, Colonel John Bright, Alderman Thomas Dickenson, Alderman Stephen Watson, Alderman Geldard, Colonel Charls Fairfax, Captain Henry Westby, Mr. John Penrose, Mr. Washington, Mr. John Wadsworth, Mr. John Iscot, Mr. Marmaduke Rivers, Master John [Page 601] Vincent of Warnsworth, Mr Ashton of Arnolds-biggon, Mr Stanhop, Mr Dineley, William Farror of Evvood, William Ingleby of Ripley, Alexander Johnson, Mr William Drake, Captain George Byard, Thomas Bourchier, Robert Smith, Jeremy Dickson.
North-riding.
North-riding; Thomas Lord Fairfax, John Lambert Major General of the Army, Sir Thomas Widdrington Knight, one of the Lords Commissioners of the great Seal, Sir John Bourchier, Thomas Wastall Esquire, Francis Lassells Esquire, George Lord Eure, William Aschough, Captain Nicolas Co [...]yers, Captain Thomas Davill, Mr Thomas Harrison.
Essex.
For the County of Essex; Dudley Templer Esq; Dionysius Wakering Esq; Robert Crane Gent. John Fenning Gent. Sir Thomas Honywood, Sir William Masham, William Masham Esq; Henry Mildmay of Graces, Oliver Raymond, Gobert Barrington, Thomas Cook of Pedmarsh, Carey Mildmay, Richard Herlackendon, Arthur Barnadiston, Robert Maidston, John Brewster, John Meade, Hezekiah Haines Esquires, Joachim Mathews Esquire, Henry Barrington Esquire, Herbert Pelham Esquire.
Glocester.
For the County of Glocester; and for the City and County of the City of Glocester, [Page 602] Nathanael Stephens, Adrian Scroope, Thomas Hodges, John Stevens, John Dorney, Giles Hancock, Jasper Clutterbuck Esquire, Sylvanus Wood Gent. John Waade, John Crofts, Thomas Purey Esquire, William Webley, Anthony Kingscot Esquire.
Hereford.
For the County of Hereford; Sir Robert Harley, Edward Harley, John James, John Scudamore of Kenchurch, Thomas Rawlins, Wroth Rogers, John Flacker, John Pateshall of Puddlestone, Sylvanus Taylor Esquires, Thomas Eaton Gent. John Ashton of Ludlow in Shropshire Gent. Priamus Davies Esquire, John Chelmeld Gent. Thomas Blaney Gent. Richard Reed Gent. William Botterell Esquire, Thomas Seabourne, William Lane, Francis Pember Gent.
Hertford.
For the County of Hertford; Henry Lawrence Lord President of His Highness Council, Sir John Wittronge, John Fiennes, John Marsh, Francis White Esquires, Isaac Puller Esquire, William Turner of Hertford, Alban Cox, Master Combes the yonger of Hemsted, Colonel Washington, Thomas Nicholl, William Leman Esquire, Ralph Gladman Gent. William Packer Esquire, William Hickman Gent.
Kent.
For the County of Kent; Philip Lord Viscount Li [...]le, Henry Oxenden of Dean Esquire, Thomas Foach of the Isle of Thanet Esq; Thomas [Page 603] Kelsey Esquire, Peter Peek, Thomas St Nicolas of Ash Esquires, John Boys of Betshanger Esq; Thomas Wilson of Sandwich Gent. William Cullen of Dover Esquire, John Dixwell, Thomas Scot of Canterbury Esquires, Thomas Munnings, Robert Maskall of Canterbury, Edward Ower Gent. Whittington Wood of Canterbury Esquire, James Sceat, of Tenterdeane, Robert Gibon, Richard Beale, Lambert Godfrey Esquires, Sir Thomas Stiles Knight and Baronet, Charles Bowles of Rochester Esq; Master Kennet of Lye, Master Lancaston of Rumney, Ralph Welden Esquire.
Lancaster.
For the County of Lancaster; Sir Richard Houghton, Gilbert Ireland Esquire, Thomas Fell, Thomas Birch, William Ashurst, Richard Haworth, Edward Robinson Esquires, William West Gent. Jerijah Aspinwall, Randall Sharplesse, George Piggot, John Sawrey Gent. Charles VVorsley Esquire, John VViggan Esquire.
Leicester.
For the Counties of Leicester and Rutland; Henry Lord Cromwell, Sir Arthur Hesilrige Baronet, Francis Hacker Esquire, Peter Temple Esq; Master John Prat, Master John Godman, William Hubbard Gent. Mr. William Stanley, Mr. Edmund Craddock Aldermen of Leicester; Mr. Samuel Wanley the elder, Mr. Anthony Maior of Leicester, Mr. John Horton, Thomas Cockran, Gent. [...] Palmer, Henry Smith, Edward Smith Esq; Evers Ermyne Esquire, Robert Horsman Esq; Edward Horsman Esquire, William Sheild Esq; [Page 604] Benjamin Norton, John Weaver Esquires.
Lincoln.
For the County of Lincoln; Nathanaël Fiennes Esquire, William Savile of Newton Esquire, Edward Rossiter, Thomas Coppledick of Harrington Esquire, Iohn Archer Esquire, Nehemiah Rawson of Bickwood Esquire, Robert Yearborough Esquire, Master Wilsby of Spaulding, Philip Mounton Esquire, Humphrey Walcott of Lincoln Esquire, Master Thomson of Roxby, Theophilus Hart Gent. Thomas Hall of [...]annington Esquire, Iohn Disney Gent. Master Harvey of Lincoln, Master Marshall of Lincoln, William Berry of Grantham Esquire, Master Matthias Browne of Horbling, Mr. Thomas Law, Mr. Whyteing, Mr. Tilson jun. Aldermen of Boston, Iames Berry, Francis Clinton, alias Fiennes Esq; Mr. Cole of Stamford, Samuel Cust of Boston.
Middlesex.
For the County of Middlesex and City of Westminster, Sir Gilbert Pickering Baronet, Philip Skippon Esq; Sir Iames Harrington Knight and Baronet, Sir William Roberts Knight, Edmond Harvey Esquire, Edward Whaley, William Goffe Esquires, Iohn Humphreyes, Richard Downton, Daniel Proctor, Paul Wittoll, Walter Bigg, Iohn Brown, William Bosvile, Iohn Baldwyn, Maurice Thompson, Iohn Stone, Francis Bloomer Esquires, Iohn Barkstead Lievtenant of the Tower, Edward Cresser, Iustinian Paget, Iohn Downes, Henry Scobell Esquire, George Evelyn Gent.
London.
For the City of London; Sir Thomas Vyner Knight Lord Maior, Philip Skippon Major General, Isaac Pennington, Thomas Andrews, Robert Tichburne, Tempest Milner Aldermen of London, William Steele Serjeant at Law Recorder, Iohn Sadler Esquire, Maurice Gethings, Thomas Staines, Master Ashurst, Iohn Strange, Mr. Barrer, John Langley, John Stone Esquires, Alderman Pack, Alderman Riccot, Stephen Eastwick Alderman, Abraham Babington, William Hobson, Charls Doyley, William Puckle of Broadstreet, William Thompson Alderman, Francis Warren of New-Fishstreet-hill, Marke Coe, Richard Lloyd, Maurice Thompson.
Monmouth.
For the County of Monmouth; Richard Lord Cromwell, Philip Lord Viscount Lisle, Philip Jones Esquire, Henry Herbert, William, Blethyn, John Nicolas, Francis Blethyn, Roger Williams, Edward Herbert, Christopher Catchmay, Robert Jones, Rice Williams, William Packer, Samuel Jones, John Morgan, Thomas Evans Esquires.
Norfolk.
For the County of Norfolk, Henry Lawrence Lord President of His Highness Council, Philip Skippon Esquire, Hezekiah Haynes, Charles George Cock Esq; Sir John Hobbart Knight, and Baronet, Sir Thomas Hogan, Robert Wood, Edward Ward, Tobias Fryer, Henry King, Edward [Page 606] Bulwer of Heyden, John Reynes, Ralph Woolmer, Roger Harper, Joshua Greene and Thomas Scot of Lyn, Thomas Barret, Nicolas Saulter of Norwich, Isaac Preston of Yarmouth, Master Dunn, Master Thomas Garret, Thomas Russell of North-Basham Esq; Edmund Creamar of Snetsham Esquire, Martin Hastings of Hindringham Esq; John Toft of Norwich.
Northampton.
For the County of Northampton; Sir Gilbert Pickering Baronet, Sir John Dreydon Baronet, John Crew of Stene Esquire, John Thornton, Edward Farmer of Daventry, Peter Whaley of Northampton, Thomas Brookes of Great Okely Esq; John Cleypool of Narborough Esquire, Thomas Pentlow of Wilby, William Boteler of Owndle, Alexander Blake of Peterburgh, John Browne of Kettering, Robert Guy of Isham, John Woodford of Northampton, [...] Rushworth of Northampton, Mr. Grindon of Blacheley.
Oxon.
For the County of Oxon; William Lord Say and Seale, Nathanaël Fiennes Esquire, Sir Charles Wolseley Baronet, John Fiennes, Adrian Scroope, Walter Elwood Esquires, Master Berry of Oxford, Thomas Appletree, John Vue of Watlington Gent. Master Beale of Banbury, Tobias Garbrand Doctor of Physick, John Carey of Dichley Gent. William Whateley of Banbury Gent. Master George Blunt of Wiggington, Master William Allen of Banbury, John Nikon Alderm. of Oxford, Thomas Weekes, Matthew Martyn, Master [Page 607] Francis Webb of Bodicoate, Master Elisha Coles, [...] Hunt Gent. John Goddard Doctor of Physick, Doctor Crosse of Magdalen College, Master Stephens of Oxford.
Salop.
For the County of Salop; Humfrey Mackworth Esquire, John Corbet, [...]reswel Taylor, Robert Corbet, Thomas Mackworth, Thomas Baker, Roger Evans, Launcelet Ley, Thomas Ketilby, Samuel Moore, Thomas Hunt, Rowland Hunt, Charls Langford, Edward Cresset, John Downes Esquires, Captain Richard Smith, John Ashon Gentlem. William Botterell Gentleman, Richard Cheshire Alderman of Shrewsbury, Richard Henage Gentleman, Richard Piggot of Shrewsbury Gent.
Stafford.
For the County of Stafford; Sir Charls Wolseley Baronet, John Swinfen junior, [...] Adshead, John Lee of Rushall, Henry Stone, William Bendy junior, Thomas Bagnall Esq; William Turton Gentl. Zachary Babington, Thomas Sanders Esq; Thomas Whitgrave Esq; William Gent Gentleman, George Bello [...], John Chetwood Esquires, Master Mott, Master Myners, Master Saxon, John Ley, Thomas Fox of Tamworth Gent. Alexander Wightwick Esquire.
Somerset.
For the County of Somerset and City of Bristol; Iohn Disbrow Esquire, Robert Blake, Adrian Scroope Esquires, Alexander Popham Esq; [Page 608] Sir Thomas Wroth, Mr James Powell, Richard Aldworth, Robert Aldworth, Thomas Gorges, John Gorges Esquires, John Buckland, Richard Jones, Thomas Syderfin Esquires, Sir Iohn Horner, Henry Henley, Robert Hunt, Iohn Carey of Castle-Cary, Doctor Palmer, Iohn Preston, Roger Hill, of Pounsford Esquires, George Milward of Shepton Mallet Gent. Henry Bonner, Thomas Hipsley John Hagger Esquires, Luke Hodges, Iohn Harrington, Iohn Sealy of Bridgwater.
Southampton.
For the County of Southampton, and the Town and County of Southampton; Richard Lord Cromwell, William Sydenham, Richard Major Esquires, Iohn Lisle one of the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal, Richard Norton, Richard Whithead, John Buckley Esquires, Nathanaël VVhetham Governor of Portsmouth, Sir John Dingley, Knight, VVilliam Bowerman, Thomas Bowerman, Francis River, Robert Goffe, John Hildesley, John Pitman Esquires, Richard Moore, Peter Legay, George Searle, Samuel Bull, Thomas Chase, Captain Newhan, John Greenowes, Mr Horwood of the City of VVinchester, John VVat [...]man, Daniel Her [...]end.
Suffolk.
For the County of Suffolk; James Hubland, Robert Brewster, Francis Brewster, Thomas Bacon, John Gurdon, VVilliam Gibbs Esquires, Robert Gurdon, Joseph Brand Esquires, Sir Thomas Barnadiston, Giles Barnadiston Esquires, John Clerk of Bury St Edmonds, Francis Theob [...]l [...] Gentlemen, [Page 609] Nathanael Bacon, Francis Bacon, Esqs Samuel Moody of Bury St. Edmunds, Humphrey Moseley Esq; Barnaby Bowtel Esq; Henry Sampson of Framlington, Edward Barker of Aye, Mr. Woodal of Woodbridge.
Surrey.
For the County of Surrey, Philip Lord Viscount Lisle, John Lambert, Major Generall of the Army, William Sydenham esq; Sir Richard Onslow, Arthur Onslow esq; Robert Titchburn, Alderman of London, Sir William Brereton, Francis Drake esq; Sidrack Brice, John Blackwell, Robert Goodwin, John Corbet, George Thompson, Lewis Audley, William Molins, Walter St. Iohn, Francis Allen, esquires, John Blackwel junior, Iames Shirley, Abraham Babington, [...] Tarlton, Iohn Rushworth, esquires.
Sussex.
For the County of Sussex, Anthony Stapley esq; Iohn Stapley, Nathanael Studley, William Cawley the elder, Arthur Bettsworth, Anthony Shearly, esquires, Iohn Poling, Iohn Love, Gentlemen, William Polhill of Burrish, Mr. Got, Herbert Morley, Iohn Fagg of Wiston, William Freeman of Cowfold, Richard Knowls of Waterfeild, Edward Cook of Fieldplace, William Hayes of Hawsted, esquires Iohn Holloway of North-Chappel, Edward Prat, Anthony Hilton, Richard Manning, Thomas Thorncomb, Thomas Ballard Gentlemen, Mr. Burdit, Mr. Bret, Mr. Russel, Iohn Busbridge.
VVarwick.
For the County of Warwick, William Purefoy, esquire, Richard Lucy, Thomas Willoughby, Joseph Hawksworth, esquires, Walden Willington, Mr. John St. Nicholas, John Hawford Esq; Mr. Thomas Basnet, Robert Beke Esq; VVilliam Thornton, Matthew Bridges, Esqs Mr. VVilliam Cliff, George VVills Gent. John Brook of Stratford upon Avon, Francis Smith of Cleyton Gent. Thomas Fish.
VVorcester.
For the county of VVorcester, John VVilde Serjeant at Law, Sir Thomas Rous, Gervase Buck in the Colledge Esq; Nicholas Lechmer of Hundley Esq; William Collyn of the Colledge, Gent. Francis Frank of Worcester Gent. Robert Stirrup of Worcester Gent. Henry Philips of Worcester Gent. Nicholas Blick of Bramsgrove Gent. Thomas Young of Handley Gent. John Butler of Bramsgrove Gent. John Hayler of Bewdley Gent. John Bridges Esq; Edward Elvins Alderman of Worcester, Thomas Foly, [...] Barker, John Corbet, [...] Pit of Keen, Henry Broad, Talbot Badger, Esqs Thomas Martin Gent. Edmond Giles the yonger, Thomas Roberts Gent. John James Esq;
Wilts.
For the county of Wilts, Sir Anthony-Ashley Cooper Baronet; Thomas Grove Esq; George Cooper Esq; George Howe of Cole-Barwick Esq; William Coles of Downton, Gabriel Martin, Edward [Page 611] Mitchel of Chittern, William Sadler, William Shute, Esqs Mr. William Blisset, Mr. Humphrey Ditton and Mr. Richard Phelps of Salisbury, Mr. Tho: Hunt and Mr. Tho: Baily of Marlborough, Mr. William Temple of Bishopstrow, Mr. Middlecot of Warminster, Sir John Evelin, Alexander Popham Esq; Alexander Thislethwait, Mr. Jamts Hely, William Ludlow of Claringdon, Esquires.
Anglesey; Carnarvan, Montgomery, Denbigh, Merioneth and Flint.
For the counties of Anglesey, Carnarvan, Montgomery, Denbigh, Merioneth and Flint, Humphrey Mackworth Esq; Hugh Price, Evan Lloid, Robert Griffiths, Richard Price, Thomas Lloyd, Lewis Price of the county of Montgomery, Esqs George Twisleton, John Carter, Thomas Ball, Garrald Barbar of the county of Denbigh, Esqs Ralph Weld Gent. John Kinaston Esq; Edward Thomas Gent. William Speed Gent. Samuel Swanwick Gent. John Jones Esq; of the same county, Thomas Dymock, Andrew Ellis, Luke Lloid of the county of Flint, Esqs Thomas Mason, Esq; Daniel Matthews Gent. John Maddocks of Hanmer Parish in the same county Gent.
Pembrook, Cardigan, Glamorgan, Carmarthen, Brecon and Radnor.
For the counties of Pembrook, Cardigan, Glamorgan, Carmarthen, Brecon and Radnor; The Lord Henry Cromwel, Philip Earl of Pembrook and Montgomery, Philip Lord Vis. Lisle, Philip Jones Esq; Bussey Mansel, Edw: Thomas, Edward [Page 612] Prichard, John Price, Rowland Dawkins, Edward Stradling, John Nicholas Governor of Chepstow, John Herbert, John Galer, Evan Lewis, John Bowen, Henry Morgan, Robert Thomas, Jenkin Franklen, Rice Powel, John Daniel, Sir Erasmus Philips, Sir Hugh Owens, James Philips, Arthur Owen, Sampson Lort, Jenkin Lloid, James Lewis Esquire; John Lloid de Vairdreff, Richard Brewn, Hector Philips, Rowland Gethings, Abel Griffiths, Griffith Bowen, David Morgan, Edward Games, Silvanus Taylor, Esqs John Walsam, John Williams, John Dancy, William Jones, William Watkins, Thomas Watkins, David Morgan, Gent.
And the said Commissioners for the respective counties aforesaid, or any five or more of them, are hereby authorized and impowred to call before them or any five of them, any publique Preacher, Lecturer, or other persons formerly called Parsons, Vicars or Curats, setled, or which hereafter shall be setled in any Benefice, commonly called, A Benefice with cure of Souls, or publique Lecture, having any stipend or salary legally annexed, or belonging thereunto; and all and every School-Masters, who are or shall be ignorant, scandalous, insufficient, or negligent in their several and respective places: And shall and may receive all Articles or Charges which shall be exhibited against them for ignorance, insufficiency, scandal in their lives and conversations, or negligence in their respective callings and places, and proceed to examination and determination of such offences, according to the Rules and Directions hereafter [Page 613] specified, viz. such Ministers and School-Masters shall be deemed and accompted scandalous in their Lives and Conversations, as shall be proved guilty of holding or maintaining such Blasphemous and Atheistical opinions as are punishable by an Act; entituled, An Act against several Atheistical Blasphemous and execrable opinions, deregatory to the Honor of God, and destructive to humane Society, or guilty of profane cursing or swearing; perjury, subornation of Perjury; such as shall hold, teach, or maintain any of those Popish opinions, required in the Oath of Abjuration (mentioned in an Ordinance of Parlament of the 19. of August, 1643) to be abjured; or be guilty of Adultery, Fornication, Drunkenness; common haunting of Taverns, or Ale-houses, frequent quarrelling or fighting, frequent playing at Cards or Dice, Profaning of the Sabbath day, and such as do or shall allow the same in their Families, or countenance the same in their Parishioners or Sholars; such as have publiquely and frequently read or used the Common-prayer Book since the first of January last, or shal at any time hereafter do the same; such as do publiquely and profanely scoff at, or revile the strict profession or Professors of Religion or Godliness, or do incourage and countenance by word or practise any Whitson-Ales, Wakes, Morris-Dances, May-poles, Stage-plays, or such like Licentious practises, by which men are incouraged in a loose and profane Conversation; such as have declared, or shall declare by Writing, Preaching, or otherwise publishing their dis-affection [Page 614] to the present Government; such Ministers shall be accounted negligent, as omit the publique Exercises of Preaching and Praying upon the Lords-day (not being hindred by necessary absence or infirmity of body) or that are or shall be non-Resident; such School-masters shall be accompted negligent as absent themselves from their Schools, and do wilfully neglect their duties in teaching their Scholars.
And such Minister and School-master shall be accounted ignorant and insufficient, as shall be so declared and adjudged by the Commissioners in every County, or any five of them together, with any five or more of the Ministers hereafter nominated in this present Ordinance, to be assistant to the said Commissioners, viz.
Bedford.
For the County of Bedford, Francis Walsall Dr. of Divinity, Mr. Linford of Sutton, Mr. Thomas Aspine, Mr. Isaac Bedford, Mr. Heward of Hawnes, Mr. John Cole of Clophill, Mr. [...] Lawry of Bletso.
Berks.
For the County of Berks, Mr. Fowler of Redding, Mr, Woodbridge of Newberry, Mr. James Baron of Hendred, Mr. Johnson of Lockin, Mr. Hughes of Hinton, Mr. Tickle of Abbington, Mr. Stephens of Appleton, Mr. Lee of Brightwell, Mr. Bateman of Ockingham.
Bucks.
For the County of Bucks, Mr. Ellis, Mr. Butler, Mr. Dobson, Mr. Luffe, Mr. Perkins, Mr. Gladman, Mr. Bennet, Mr. Beverly of Quainton, Mr. Marriot.
Cambridge and Huntington, with the Isle of Ely.
For the Counties of Cambridge and Huntington, with the Isle of Ely, Dr. Samuel Bolton, Mr. of Christ Colledge in Cambridge, Dr. Lazarus Seaman, Mr. of Peterhouse, Mr. Robert West, Mr. Coldwell of Wisbich, Mr. [...] Sheldrake of Levingston, Dr. Warner of Balsam, Mr. Jephcot of Sofham, Mr. John Nye of Cottenham, Mr. Bradshaw of Willingham, Mr. Hayes of Papworth, Mr. Lee of Outwell, Mr. Wells of St. Ives, Mr. Isham of Hammerton, Mr. Meryll of Kimbolton, Mr. Vinter of Keyston, Mr. Williams of Pidley, Mr. Taylor of Huntington, Mr. Halsey of Hurst, Mr. Wallis of Broughton, Mr. Cooper of Elton, Mr. Spencer Minister of Shelton.
Chester.
For the County of Chester, Mr. Thomas Langley of Heldstretnam, Mr. Samuel Langley, Mr. Nathaniel Lancaster of Tarperley, Mr. Samuel Eaton, Mr. James Marbury, Mr. William Manwairing, Mr. Newcomb of Gawsworth, Mr. Pemberton, Mr. Peertree, Mr. Glendal of Chester, Mr. Thomas Upson, Mr. Sillito of Laughton.
Cornwal.
For the County of Cornwal, Mr. Jasper Hicks of Lanrake, Mr. Tinkham of Truro, Mr. Thomas [Page 616] Peters of Milor, Mr. Caswel of St. Germans, Mr. Toms of St. Stephens, Mr. John Wills, Mr. Thomas Travers, Mr. Robert Jagoe, Mr. Welsteed of St. Ives, Mr. George Highes of Plimouth, master Delbridge, master Mawl of Foy, Mr. Powell of Clements, master Martin of Plimouth, Mr. Hancock.
Cumberland, Durham, Northumberland, and Westmerland.
For the Counties of Cumberland, Durham, Northumberland, and Westmerland, master Wells of Newcastle, master Hamond of Newcastle, master Prideaux of Newcastle, master Theophilus Polwheele, master Richard Gilpin, master Mathias Simpson, master Comfort Star, master Roger Baldwin, master Thomas Troyt, master George Larkham, master William Hepkins, master Herris, master Halsey, master Lane, master Lapthorne, master Truryn, master Smith of Kirkby-Langsdale, master Walker of Kendall.
Derby and Nottingham.
For the counties of Derby and Nottingham, master John Rowlinson Senior, master Emanuel Barne, master Joseph Swetnam, master Walter Taylor, Mr. Peter Watkinson, Mr. Edmund Barton, Mr. John Baylston, Mr. John Hieron, Mr. Thomas Bakewell, Mr. Thomas Shelmardine, Mr. Frith of Mansfield, Mr. Samuel Coats of Westbridgford, Mr. Laurence Palmer of Gedling, Mr. Vere Harcourt of Plumtree, Mr. Cook of Sibthorp.
Devon and City of Excester.
For the County of Devon and city of Excester, Mr. George Hughes of Plymouth, Mr. Fardinando Nicols, Mr. Ford of Excester, Mr. Anthony Hartford, Mr. Sanders of Hoslworthy, Mr. Bartlet of Excester, Mr. Yeo of Newton, Mr. Bartlet of Beddiford, Mr. Herring of Maston, Mr. John Rowe, Mr. Jonathan Hanmore of Barnstable, Mr. Francis Sourton of Honyton, Mr. William Trevethick, Mr. Lewis Stickley of Excester, Mr. John Chishul.
Dorset and Pool.
For the County of Dorset and Pool, Mr. William Ben, Mr. Stanley Gowre, Mr. William Allen, Mr. John Hardy, Mr. Walter Burges, Mr. John Trortle, Mr. John Eaton, Mr. Constance Jessop, Mr. John Loder, Mr. Thomas Chaplin, Mr. George Thorn, Mr. William Hussie, Mr. Jeremy Turner, Mr. Wats of Morecreechel.
York, and Kingston upon Hull.
For the East-Riding of the county of York, and Kingston upon Hull, Mr. Luddington of Cowscots, Mr. Aty of Agnes-Burton, Mr. William Hyde of Wighton, Mr. Peter Clerk, Mr. Robert Johnson, Mr. [...] Micklethwait, Mr. Hame of Flamborough, Mr. Fowler of Thwing, Mr. Garthwait of Carnaby, Mr. Crozer of Bridlington.
York City.
For the West-Riding and City of York, Mr. Fisher of Sheafield, Mr. Boles of York, Mr. More-house of Castleford, Mr. Smalwood, Mr. Marshal of Wood-church, Mr. Roots of Hallifax, Mr. Herring of York, Mr. William Stiles of Leeds, Mr. Calvert.
For the North-Riding, Mr. Philip Nesbet, Mr. Mannors, Mr. Dove of Appleton, Mr. Peter Clerk, Mr. Calvert, Mr. Boles, Mr. Herring.
Essex.
For the County of Essex, Mr. Stalham of Tarling, Mr. Willis of Ingerston, Mr. Sams of Cogshal, Mr. Sparrow of Halsted, Mr. Glover of Finchingfield, Mr. Peck of Pritlewel, Mr. Warren of Hatfield-Broadoak, Mr. Martin Holbech of Felstead, Mr. Matthew Newcomen of Dedham.
Gloucester.
For the County of Gloucester, and County of the City of Gloucester, Mr. Alexander Gregory of Cirencester, Mr. Giles Wortman, Mr. William Mew of Essington, Mr. Anthony Palmer of Borton of the Water, Mr. Helm of Winchcomb, Mr. William Tray of Odington, Mr. William Beal of Stow of the Would, Mr. William Fowler of Walsterley.
Hereford.
For the County of Hereford, Mr. Woodriff, Mr. Lowe, Mr. Boyer, Mr. Briton, Mr. Primrose, Mr. Woodward of Rickards Castle, Mr. John Beal, Mr. Smith, Mr. Voyle.
Hertford.
For the county of Hertford, Mr. Philip Goodwyn, master John Warren, Dr. John Lightfoot of Munden-magna, master Samuel Tomlin, master Thomas Mocket, master Thomas Halseter, master John Young, master Isaac Bedford, master Nathaniel Eels, master Tutty, master Slater, master John Pointer, master Daniel Dyke, master Lee of Hatfield.
Kent.
For the county of Kent, master John Davis of Dover, master Player, master Taylor and master Durant of Canterbury, master French of Stroud, master Steed, master Samuel Selliard, master Crump, master Bright, master John Swan.
Lancaster.
For the County of Lancaster, master Herl, master Hollinworth, master Anger, master Herrick, master Latham, master Thomas Johnson, master Ambrose, master Harrison, master Gee, master Michael Briscoe.
Leicester and Rutland.
For the counties of Leicester and Rutland, Mr. Simon Peck, Mr. Thomas Doughtey, Mr. Thomas Laurey, Mr. Richard Pyke, Mr. [...] Pits, Mr. Henry Peirce, Mr. John Yaxley, Mr. Nicholas Kestyn, Mr. William Sheffield, Mr. Samuel Blackerby, Mr. Maurice Boheme, Mr. Barry of Costmore, Mr. Beacham of Seaton, Mr. Rowel of Little-Casterton, Mr. Johnson of Timwel, Mr. Levit of Ashwel, Mr. King of Okeham, Mr. Wells of Baroden.
Lincoln.
For the County of Lincoln, Mr. Edward Reyner, Mr. Scortreth of Lincoln, Mr. Anderson, Mr. Nayler of Boston, Mr. Male of Faulkingham, Mr. Ram of Spaulding, Mr. Reynold of Heyting, Mr. Finch of Bellow, Mr. Hanserd Knollis, Mr. Moreton of Billingborn and Hirbling, Mr. Law of Wiberton, Mr. Angel of Grantham, Mr. Whiting, Mr. Northan of Harlaxton, Mr. Beck of Rippinghal, Mr. Brown of Stamford, Mr. William How of Gedney.
Middlesex, and City of Westminster.
For the County of Middlesex, and the city of Westminster, Mr. Robert Malthus, Mr. [...] Perkins, Mr. [...] Symmer, of Cheswick, Mr. Isaac Knight, Mr. Thomas Gilbert, Mr. Willis, Mr. Rolls of Thistleworth, Mr. Price of Stains, Mr. Kentish of Kattern, Mr. Williams of Wappin, Dr. Spurstow of Hackney, Mr. John [Page 617] Bond, Master of the Savoy, Mr. Sangar, Mr. Philip Ny, Mr. Obadiah Sedgwick, Mr. Bates of Dunstans in the West.
London.
For the City of London, Lazarus Seaman Dr. of Divinity, Dr. Drake, Mr. Samuel Clerk, Mr. Matthew Barbar, Mr. Gouge of Sepulchres, Mr. Abraham Molin, Mr. Richard Vines, Mr. Griffith of the Charterhouse, Mr. Jacomb, Mr. Sheffeild, Mr. Rutton, Mr. Bragg, Mr. Arthur Jackson, Mr. John Bond, Mr. Sangar, Mr. Philip Ny, Mr. Obadiah Sedgwick, Mr. Joseph Caril, Mr. Cooper.
Monmouth.
For the County of Monmouth, Mr. Walter Craddock, Mr. Henry Walter, Mr. George Robinson, Mr. Roger Charnock, Mr. Francis Syms, Mr. George White, Mr. Thomas Barns, Mr. Abbatts.
Norfolk.
For the County of Norfolk, Mr. VVilliam Bridges, Mr. John Brinsley of Yarmouth, Mr. John Martin of Edgfield; Mr. John Money of VVymandham, Mr. Timothy Armitage of Norwich, Mr. Charles Franck of Thetford, Mr. Nathaniel Brewster of Alby, Mr. Edmund Broom of Southrep, Mr. Breniter, Mr. Samuel Smith of Sistern, Mr. Richard VVells of Takenham, Mr. Harmer of Saxingham, Mr. Israel Shipdem of Swafham, Mr. Thomas Thorrowgood, Mr. Johnson of Lynn, Mr. Edward Corbet, Master Collings of Norwich, Mr. Peck of [Page 618] Hingham, Mr. Hogan of Lyn, Mr. John Newton of Great Dunham, Mr. William Hall of Heveringham.
Northampton.
For the County of Northampton, Mr. Gyfford, of Gayton, Mr. Daniel Rogers of Wotten, Mr. Ball of Northampton, Mr. Pearn of Wilby, Mr. Floid of Woodford, Mr. Resbury of Owndle, Mr. Cawthorn, Mr. Wilson of Peterburgh, Mr. William Hodges of Tickmarsh, Mr. Stephen Fowler of Creek, Mr. Timothy Dodd.
Oxen.
For the County of Oxen, John Owen, Thomas Goodwin, Doctors of Divinity, Mr. Thankful Owen, Mr. Samuel Wells, Minister of Banbury, Mr. John Taylor, Minister of Broughton, Christopher Rogers, Doctor of Divinity, Mr. Ambrose Upton, Mr. Peter French, Prebends of Christ Church, Doctor Wilkinson of Christ Church, Doctor Stanton, Warden of Corpus Christi, Dr. Robert Harris, Master of Trinity Colledge, Mr. Ralph Button, Mr. Brice of Henley, Mr. Owen of Remnam, Mr. Francis Howel, Mr. Henry Cornish.
Salop.
For the County of Salop, Mr. Thomas Paget, Mr. Francis Talents, Mr. [...] Heath, Mr. James Smith, Mr. Samuel Smith, Mr. Thomas Gilbert, Mr. Francis Boughey, Mr. Thomas Porter, Mr. Samuel Hildersham, master Andrew Pairsons, master Samuel Campion, Master Rowland [Page 619] Nevet, Mr. Samuel Bartlet, Mr. George Bartlet, Mr. John Sadler, Mr. Fraysel, Mr. Bryan, Mr. Wright of Preston in the Wilmores, Mr. Francis Wright, Mr. George Lawson of the Moor.
Stafford.
For the County of Stafford, Mr. Burdel Minister of Walshal, Mr. Burgess Minister of Sutton-Cofield in Warwickshire, Mr. Butler Minister of Leichfield, Mr. Blake Minister of Tamworth, Mr. John Greensmith Minister of Colwich, Mr. Machyn, Mr. Cleyton Minister of Wolverhampton, Mr. Sharp Minister of Burton, Mr. Sound of Newcastle under Line, Mr. Not of Sheriffhales, Mr. Taylor.
Somerset.
For the County of Somerset and City of Bristol, Mr. George Newton of Taunton, Mr. John Moor of Aller, Mr. John Bennet of Southpetherton, Mr. William Thomas of Ubley, Mr. Francis Roberts of VVrington, Mr. Richard Fairclough of Mells, Mr. Richard Allen of Dichet, Mr. Richard Allen of Batcomb, Mr. Thomas Lee of Chard, Mr. William Ball, Mr. Elford of VVestmunckton, Mr. Stubs of VVells, Mr. John Devenish of VVestonzoiland, Mr. Parker of Bruton, Mr. Bat of Creech, Mr. Cross of Chew, Mr. Ralph Farmer, Mr. Knowls, Mr. Hassard.
Southampton.
For the County of Southampton, and Town and County of Southampton, Mr. Whitfeild, Mr. James Terry, Mr. Henry Bartlet, Mr. Symonds of Southweek, Mr. Awdley of Clanfield, Mr. Cox of Bishops-stoak, Mr. Robert Webb, Mr. Merriet of Cliedsden, Mr. Downs, Mr. Nathaniel Robinson, Mr. Robert Dingley, Mr. Edward Buckler, Mr. John Martin, Mr. Robert Tuchyn, Mr. Barns, Mr. Sparks, Mr. Langley of Titherly.
Suffolk.
For the County of Suffolk, Mr. Phillips of Wrentham, Mr. Marshall of Ipswich, Mr. Ward of Ipswich, Mr. Hudson of Capel, Mr. Mot of Stoke next Neyland, Mr. Brunning of Seymore, Mr. Gurnall of Lavenham, Mr. Faircloth of Ketton, Mr. Gibbons of Bury, Mr. Burrel, Mr. Cook of Glempsford.
Surry.
For the countie of Surry, Mr. Richard Bifield, Mr. Rayner of Eggham, Mr. George Farrold, Mr. Gery, Mr. John Arthur of Clapham, Dr. Temple of Battersea, Mr. Parks of Morelack, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Wright of Charlwood, Mr. Noel of Ockley, Mr. Brisco, Mr. Plot, Mr. Peter Sterry.
Sussex.
For the County of Sussex, Doctor Chenel of Petworth, Mr. Anthony Hilton of Billingsworth, Mr. William Speed, Mr. Cusley of Arundel, Mr. Pickering, Mr. Maynard of Mayfield, Mr. Vinter, Mr. Hawksworth, Mr. Smith, Mr. Stafford, Mr. Chatfield of Horsham, Mr. Simons, Mr. Osborn, Mr. Corbet of Chichester, Mr. Dorrand.
Warwick.
For the County of Warwick, Dr. Bryon, Dr. Grew of Coventry, Mr. Wills of Brumingham, Mr. Burges of Sutton Cofield, Mr. Blake of Tamworth, Mr. Walden, Mr. John Trap, Mr. Alexander Bean, Mr. Dooley of Alveston, Mr. Butler and Mr. Richard Venner of Warwick.
Worcester.
For the County of Worcester, Mr. Richard Baxter of Kidderminster, Mr. Beniamin B [...]xter of Upton, Master Giles Collyer of Blockley, Mr. Hopkin of Evesham, Master Bramage of Kemsey.
VVilts.
For the County of Wilts, Dr. Chambers, Dr. Chaldcote, Mr. Adonyram Byfield of Collingborn, Mr. John Strickland, Mr. William Ayres of Salisbury, Mr. Profit, Mr. Hughes of Malborough, Mr. Hunton of Westbury, Mr. Peter Inch of Dinchead, Mr. Hounsel of Chilton, Mr. William [Page 622] Clifford of East-Knoyl, Mr. John Priaulx of Fovant.
Anglesey, Carnarvan, Montgomery, Denbigh, Merioneth and Flint.
For the counties of Anglesey, Carnarvan, Montgomery, Denbigh, Merioneth and Flint, Mr. Ambrose Mostin, Mr. Morgan Lloid, Mr. Edward Boles of Harding, Mr. Steel of Hanmer, Mr. Robert Fog, Mr. Orlando Fog, Dr. John Ellis, Mr. William Jones, Mr. Ellis Rowland, Mr. Matthew Jenkin, Mr. Jonathan Roberts, Mr. Stephen Lewis, Mr. James Quarrel, Mr. Rowland Nevet of Oswestree in the county of Salop, Mr. Samuel Barklay of Clungunis, Mr. George Lawson of Moor in the county of Salop.
Pembrook, Cardygan, Glamorgan, Carmarthen, Brecon and Radnor.
For the counties of Pembrook, Cardigan, Glamorgan, Carmarthen, Brecon and Radnor, Mr. Walter Cradock, Mr. Bedwel, Mr. Ellis, Mr. Miles, Mr. Griffiths, Mr. Nichols, Mr. Samuel Jones, Mr. David Davies, Mr. Miller, Mr. French, Mr. Higgs, Mr. Love, Mr. Philips, Mr. Charls Price, Mr. Powel of St. Lythans, Mr. Larver, Mr. Davies, Mr. Warren, Mr. Jenkin Jones, Mr. Swain, Mr. Richard Powel, Mr. Abbot of Abergeny, Mr. White of the county of Monmouth, Mr. Lucas of Preistign.
And the Commissioners in this present Ordinance authorized, shall and may grant out Warrants under the hands and Seals of them the respective Commissioners, or any five of them, to be directed unto the person faulty as aforesaid, or against whom such [Page 623] Articles, Charge or Information shall be prepared or exhibited, requiring his appearance before the said Commissioners, or any five of them, at a certain day and place in the said warrant mentioned, to answer the said charge or Articles respectively. And after notice of the said Warrant personally given to the party so convented or articled against, or left at his dwelling place, or ordinary place of aboad, and that notice proved by Oath to have been made, or given by the space of five daies before the day of appearance in the said warrant mentioned (no just cause being shewed and proved to excuse the not appearing) And likewise after answer made by such as shall appear upon Summons, or default of appearance, or answer after such Summons, proved as aforesaid, Then the said Commissioners, or any five of them, are hereby enabled and authorized to proceed to examination of Witnesses upon Oath (if the case so require) as well for, and on the behalf of the person accused or articled against, for making good his answer, as for proof of the said Charge, Articles or Information; which oaths the said Commissioners for the respective Counties aforesaid, or any five of them, are hereby authorized to administer; And after due examination and confession of the party, or proof made by the Oath of two credible Witnesses, or of one Witness with other concurrent evidence of the Charge, Articles, or Crime objected against him, according to any the particulars before expressed, to eject and displace all and every such person and persons from such his and their respective Cures, [Page 624] Benefices, Places and Charges as the said Commissioners, or any five or more of them, upon such hearing, shall adjudge to be guilty of any the Crimes aforesaid; and shall enter their said Iudgements into a Book fairly written, and to be kept for that purpose; and to sequester as well the Houses, Gleab, Stipend, and all other profits, and fruits belonging to such Churches, Chappels, Schools, or Lectures whereof they are then possessed (allowing such convenient time for his removal out of such house) as the said Commissioners, or any five or more of them, shall think fit.
Provided alwaies, And it is further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That before the said several and respective Commissioners shall sequester or eject any Minister or School-master for ignorance or insufficiency, such Ministers or School-masters, accused or questioned for ignorance or insufficiency, shall be examined by the said Commissioners, or any five or more of them, together with the Ministers beforenamed for the respective Counties, or any five or more of them, and if upon such examination or proof made upon Oath, it shall appear and be so declared under the hands of the said Commissioners and Ministers who shall be present at such examination and proof, or any ten or more of them, whereof five at least to be of the said Ministers, that such Minister or School-master is ignorant or insufficient, Then the said Minister or School-master shall be taken and deemed to be ignorant or insufficient, [Page 623] and shall for the same by the said Commissioners in this present Ordinance authorized, be sequestred and ejected out of such Benefice, Lecture, or School, and the said Iudgement entred in their Register book, and the reasons of such their Iudgement.
And be it further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That in all cases where any Minister or Lecturer hath been formerly ejected or sequestred, and is yet living and none placed before the thirtieth day of August, One thousand six hundred fifty and four, in his room or shall be ejected or sequestred by virtue of this present Ordinance, it shall and may be lawful from time to time, to and for any person or persons, having the lawful right of Patronage, Election, or Nomination at any time within four moneths from the eight and twentieth day of August, in case of such as are or shall be ejected or sequestred before that time and within four moneths after such ejection or sequestration by force of this Ordinance, to nominate unto the Commissioners appointed by Ordinance, for approbation of publique Preachers, a fit and able person in the place and room of such Preacher or Lecturer so displaced, who upon such approbation by the said last mentioned Commissioners, as in the said Ordinance is directed, shall and may have, hold, enjoy and receive all and every the Houses, Gleab, Tyths, and other Profits and Fruits belonging to such Place, during the natural life of such person so nominated and approved, unless he shall be [Page 625] afterwards removed by the Commissioners authorized by this Ordinance, for any the Causes before mentioned, in as full and ample manner as such person so displaced might have received or enjoyed the same. And for that purpose, in case of the death or resignation of such person so ejected or sequestred, the Commissioners for approbation of Publique Preachers, shall and are hereby authorized, upon such Nomination as is before mentioned, without any further presentation, and upon such approbation as aforesaid, to grant unto such person admittance unto such Benefice or Lecture, by an Instrument in writing, as in other cases of Presentation they are enabled to do; and in default of such Nomination within the respective times aforesaid, the Presentation for that turn shall devolve in lapse unto the Lord Protector, and His Successors.
Provided nevertheless, That in case the said Commissioners shall find that such Minister so displaced hath no other temporal estate sufficient to maintain his Wife and Children, (if he have any) and in case such Minister so displaced shall, by the time limitted by the said Commissioners, leave the quiet and peaceable possession of the Houses, Gleab, or any othe Lands belonging to such place, and remove his habitation out of such Parish where the Church or Chappel from whence he was so ejected, is scituate, That then the said Commissioners, or any five of them shall allow unto the wife and Children of such Minister [Page 626] so ejected or displaced, for their maintenance, a proportion not exceeding the fift part of the profits of such Benefice with Cure (all Parish charges, publique Taxes and other duties being first deducted out of the whole) which the said Commissioners are hereby authorized to cause to be paid unto such Wife and Children accordingly, and in default of conformity unto their order therin, from time to time to sequester the profits of such Benefice for the payment thereof, and all Charges in and about the same, during the life of such Minister so ejected; And the said Commissioners, or any five or more of them; are hereby also impowred and authorized to place some fit and able person in such School in the place and room of him so displaced, or in the place and room of any other School-master formerly by any Authority of Parlament ejected, sequestred, or displaced, and so may continue to do during the life of such sequestred or ejected School-master, as often as the said School shall be void; which person so to be placed shall and is hereby enabled to have, hold and enjoy all Houses, Lands, or other Stipend belonging unto any such School, as fully as the person so displaced ought to have done.
And be it further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That all Ministers or School-masters nominated, presented, placed or settled by virtue of, or according to the true meaning of this present Ordinance shall have the like Title to, and Interest in, all the profits, [Page 626] dues and perquisits, belonging and appertaining to the said Parsonage, Vicaridge, Ecclesiastical promotion or School, and shall and may enjoy, have and make use of the same remedy in Law or Equity for recovery thereof in case of substraction, dispossession, trespass, or any other injury, as any former Incumbent Lecturer or School-master, presented, elected, inducted or settled in such Church, place or School had or enjoyed, or might have, had, enjoyed received or used. And all Iudges and Iustices of Peace are to take notice of this present Ordinance and to allow the same to be pleaded and given in evidence, and shall award and give Iudgements and executions for such Ministers, Lecturers and School-masters placed and setled by virtue of this Ordinance, as their case in Law requires. And if any such Minister, Lecturers or School-master nominated or recommended in the room of such ejected Minister, Lecturer or School-master, and approved as aforesaid, cannot quietly obtain the possession of such Church, Chappel or School, or the dwelling Houses therunto belonging, but shall find resistance therin, or shall at any time be opposed or disturbed in the exeecise of their Ministry or calling in the said Churches, Chappels or Schools by the said ejected Ministers or School-masters, or by their means or procurement, or by any other person whatsoever, That in such Cases the said Commissioners respectively authorized by this present Ordinance, or any five or more of them shall and may upon [Page 627] complaint to them made, make such Orders under their hands and seals to the High Sheriff, or any one or more Iustice or Iustices of Peace of the said County, as they shall think meet, who are hereby authorized and required to execute the same for settling the said Ministers, Lecturer or School-masters, so nominated, appointed and approved as aforesaid, in possession of the said Churches, Chappels and Schools to which they were recommended, and for removing of all force, and preventing all disturbance and opposition, and for the binding over the Ryotours, breakers of the Peace, and disturbers thereof to the next Assizes, or quarter Sessions of the said County, or for committing them to prison, as the case shall require. And all Sheriffs, Iustices of the Peace, Constables, Church-Wardens, and other Officers and Ministers of Iustice whatsoever are hereby required to be aiding and assisting to the said Commissioners within their several limits, precincts and Iurisdictions in all things touching the premisses.
And it is further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That the said several and respective Commissioners, in this present Ordinance authorized, shall and may take a view of all the Benefices with Cure, publique Lectures and Schools within their severall and respectiue Counties, and of the Ministers and School-masters therein placed, and where they find any Ministers unapproved by the Commissioners authorized to approve [Page 628] of publique Preachers, who ought to have been approved by them, to certifie the [...]r names to the last mentioned Commissioners: And where they find that any Minister or School-master, that hath been formerly, or shall be sequestred or ejected hath without authority intruded or shall intrude into the same Churches, Schools, or places from whence they were so sequestred and ejected, That then the said Commissioners cause such ejected or sequestred Incumbent, Minister, or School-master, to be forthwith removed as aforesaid, and that in that, and all other cases of vacancy, either of any Benefice with Cure, Lecture or School within the said County, they do forthwith authorize some of the most honest and sufficient persons, in such parish where the said vacant Church or School is scituated to receive and gather the profits, perquisits and dues belonging unto such Church or School and that they mannage, order and preserve the same for the best advantage and Benefit of such School-master and Minister, as shall by virtue of this Ordinance; or by any other lawful Authority be afterwards settled and placed in the said Church or School, saving that all necessary Charges incident to the ejecting, sequestring or removing of the former Minister and School-master, and placing of another there, according to the meaning of this Ordinance, and the supplying of the said Churches and Schools, during the vacancy, with fit persons to teach and instruct both the people and Schollars and repair of the buildings belonging to the said Schools, Parsonages, Vicaridges [Page 629] or Curatships may be deducted out of the profits, and the residue justly and duely accompted for by such persons so authorized; unto which last mentioned purpose it shall and may be lawful for the said Commissioners to appoint and pay a Register or Clerk to be made use of in the premisses, and other Officers, and to allow such salaries, and defray such incident charges as they shall find requisite; the same salaries and charges being allowed and approved by the Trustees for maintenance of preaching Ministers and otherpious uses; and shall issue out of the moneys which shall be so raised in vacancies, as aforesaid, and to call to accompt not onely all persons so by them authorized to gather and preserve the said Profits, Dues and Perquisits, but also all other persons that have received and taken any Profits, Dues and Pecquisits belonging unto any Church or Chappel, out of which any Minister hath heretofore been ejected or sequestred during the vacancy thereof; and in case of refusal to accompt, or to deliver the surplusages after the allowances and deductions made, which by this Ordinance are appointed; then to cause such persons to be committed until they accompt, and duly render and deliver such surplusage according to the true meaning of this Ordinance.
And further it is Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That all such Ministers and School-masters as have been or shall be placed by any Authority of Parlament, or [Page 630] of this present Ordinance, shall constantly, and from time to time keep all the Houses, and Buildings belonging unto the Parsonages, Vicaradges, Curatships, Lectures and Schools wherein they have been or shall be placed as aforesaid, and the Chancels and Church yard, usually and of right by their Predecessors repaired in such good and sufficient repair, as the same buildings were at the time of their being settled and placed therein; And for default thereof, upon Complaint made thereof by the Church-wardens, or any other Inhabitant of such Parish, where such neglect of reparations shall happen, unto the Iustices of the Peace at their Generall Quarter Sessions, or to any three of them out of the Sessions, the said Iustices of the Peace are hereby impowred to send for such Minister or School-master before them, and to examine all such defects of repair upon Oath, and after proof made thereof, and of the Charge that the making of such reparations must necessarily require, to set down such Order for making the said reparations as the said Iustices shall adjudge to be reasonable and just; And if such Order, as shall be so declared and made, after notice thereof given to such Minister or School-master, be not by them observed and performed, That then it shall and may be lawful for the said Iustices of Peace, by warrant to be issued under their hands and seals, to cause to be levied so much as by the said Iustices of Peace shall be Ordered and Adjudged as a requisite and necessary summe of money to defray the [Page 631] Charges of such reparations, by distress and sale of the Goods and Chattles of such Minister or School-master, who ought to have made the same reparations as aforesaid, rendring the overplus back to the owner thereof.
And be it further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That no person after the nine and twentieth day of September one thousand six hundred fifty and four, shall keep any School, or be a School-master within any County of England or Wales in such Town, Parish or Place where such School is situate, out of which he hath been, or shall be sequestred or ejected upon pain that as well the School-master, as also the party that shall retain or maintain any such School-master contrary to the true intent and meaning of this Ordinance, and being thereof convicted before the Iustices of Peace at their General Quarter Sessions of the said County, shall forfeit each of them for every day so wittingly offending, ten shillings to the use of the poor of the Parish where such offence is committed.
And be it further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That the several and respective Commissioners by this Ordinance authorized shall not defer the putting in execution the powers to them intrusted by this present Ordinance, and their meeting for that purpose longer than twenty daies after the publication of this present Ordinance, but shall with all diligence and care forthwith endeavour the discharge of their said Trust, and from time to time appoint some one convenient [Page 632] place in their said respective Countys for their meeting as aforesaid, as may be most convenient for resort of such persons as shall be called before them.
And be it further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That the said several and respective Commissioners, upon complaint made unto them, by any Minister that hath been formerly placed by the late Committee for plundred Ministers, or any other Authority of Parlament, in any Church or Chappel in the room of any sequestred or ejected Incumbent & now removed from thence, or dispossessed thereof by reason of the death of such sequestred or ejected Incumbent; or who hath been presented by any Patron since the first of April one thousand six hundred fifty and three, and hath not or shall not obtain a Testimonial from the Commissioners for approbation of Publique Preachers, as by the Ordinance appointing Commissioners for approbation of publick Preachers is directed, that there is du unto such M [...]nister any Arrears of Tyths, or other duties whatsoever belonging to the said Churches or Chappels which have incurred while such Minister did exercise his Ministry in such Church or Chappel; That in all such Cases the said Commissioners, or any five or more of them, shall and may without requiring any such Testimonial to be produced by such Minister, summon to come before them all and every such person and persons as do or shall refuse to pay such Arrears, and proceed to hear and determine the said Complaints, and give such remedy for obtaining such Arrears as any the Iustices of Peace [Page 633] may do for recovery of Tythes substracted or with-held from the Incumbent by virtue of an Ordinance of Parlament, entituled, An Ordinance for the true payment of Tythes, and other such duties according to the Law and Customes of the Realm; or as any such Iustices of Peace might have done by virtue of another Ordinance of the ninth of August one thousand six hundred fourty and seven, and entituled, An Additional Ordinance for the true payment of Tythes and other duties.
And be it further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That the said last mentioned Ordinance of the n [...]nth of August one thousand six hundred forty and seven shall be, and is hereby revived, and shall be and stand in full power, force and virtue.
Provided, That this Ordinance or any thing therein contained shall not extend to enable any person or persons heretofore declared a Delinquent by authority of Parlament, his or their Heirs or Assigns, to present or nominate to any Benefice or Ecclesiastical promotion, otherwise than he or they might have done before the passing of this Ordinance.
ORdered by His Highness the Lord Protector and his Council, That this Ordinance be forthwith Printed and Published.