RAiling Accusation was such a thing as Michael the Arch-Angel durst not use against the Devil, (Jud. 9.) But when Men speak Evil, in such cases by sur­mise only, of things which they know not, and that of Dignities, (ver. 10. 8.) Then woe unto Them, (saith the Apostle) for that they are in the way of Cain, and are greedily running after the error of Balaam for reward, and are threatned that They shall perish in the gainsaying of Korah, (ver. 11.) These are spots in our feasts. Now in all Nati­onal and Publick Affairs, it is the Duty of all good Chri­stians to perform all Offices and acts of duty with utmost Charity, as They tender the wellfare of the common good of Their Country wherein They inhabit: But of all such National Affairs, none call louder for acts of pure Cha­rity, than the Election of grave and wise Magistrates and Councellors, who are to sit at the Helm, in order to manage the great Councils of a whole Kingdom. Where­fore to hear of Schisms and Factions in such cases, savors [Page 2]exceedingly of the spirit and temper of Cain, who slew his Brother, and why? But because his own works were evil, and his Brothers good, (Joh. 3.12.). Was it any wrong to the City of London, that it had yet More men of Reputation, to stand as Candidates to be Elected Members of Parliament, to serve for that most famous and Metropolitan City of the Kingdom, and that over and above, and besides what had served immediately before? Surely no, but rather it is for the glory of that Noble City, that it hath such variety of Choice. But was it so, that the Reputation and fame, of the wisdom and vertue of the New Members, did make the loudest noise above the Old Ones; yet why should this breed so much the more envy? What needed Malitious Lies to be strown into the Vulgar Ears, in order to suppress the noise of Vertue and Honour? Or what needed the Clamours of Anabaptists, Presbyterians, Quakers, and Congre­gational-Men, that cry'd down the choice by such Men as They said, [would bring in King James again to Reign over us?] That Popery is one of the greatest Annoyances that can befall this Kingdom, and the bitterest Pill that can be prescribed for the Subjects, here, to take, is a Doctrine past Dispute. And to be an Instrument to introduce such Members of Parliament, as shall purposely endeavour to set up such a Prince as certainly will Establish Popery in all that ever He can do, savors neither of Charity towards this Church or Kingdom of England, nor of Piety towards God. What King James hath done, is too well known. And we cannot say, but the Sin of the People, hath justly deserved all that hath befallen us; and not only so, but also the whole of all those fears upon us, that they should have come to pass even as we feared. And what the wrath of God, because of our Sins, hath yet behind, to throw upon us, God knows! And we may justly dread! However, it becomes not us to speak evil of Kings, especially so nearly Related unto such, by whose means we have received good things. Leaving therefore that wickedness to be acted only by the wicked and devilish Railers; let us only for the good of this Church and Kingdom, make a strict inquiry out of [Page 3]the Publick and Weekly Gazettes, who and what They were, who were the greatest promoters of all these Evil things, for the sake of which we cry out so much against King James.

On February the 6th. 1684. King Charles the II. Died. And on the same day was Proclaimed James the II. as His only Brother, and Heir. And afterwards King James the Second having confirmed all Officers in Place as were before, came into the Privy-Council Chamber, and spake, saying to this effect as follows; [That He would follow His Brothers Example in Clemency and Tenderness to His People. That He would endeavour to preserve the Government both in Church and State, as then it was by Law Established. That He would al­ways take care to Defend and Support the Church of England. That He would never invade any Man's Property. That He would go as far as any Man in preserving the Defence of this Nation in all its just Rights and Liberties.]

This Speech by the King's Command was made Publick. How He hath kept His Royal Word, God knows, it be­cometh not me to say.

On February the 11th. came in the first Address from Portsmouth Garrison, and the Society of Lincolns Inn, Con­gratulating His Majesties Accession to the Throne, and promising Obedience. And henceforwards came in more February the 4th. from Ipswich: The East India Company, Merchants of the Levant: The Bishop and Clergy of London: The Inner-Temple, Middle-Temple London, Grays-Inn, Portsmouth Corporation, Wells in Somersetshire, Westminster, &c. And on the same day was King Charles the Second Buried Privately at Westminster in the Evening.

Henceforward followed Addresses from all Counties and most of the Great Towns all over England, Scotland and Ireland, and from most Parts of His Majesties Domi­nions. And Ambassadors from all the Neighbouring King­doms and States did Congratulate.

On April the 23d. 1685. King James the Second, with Mary His Queen, were both Crowned at Westminster with great Pomp and State; at what time His Majesty took [Page 4]His Oath to do all things according to what he had a­fore promised, on the day he came first to be King.

Now, presently after His Majesty came to the Crown, He began to shew Himself a Papist, and openly went to Mass at His Palace at St. James's. Notwithstanding which, infinite numbers of Addresses of Congratulation were con­tinually coming in unto His Coronation, and after.

On the 23d. of April also met the Parliament called in Scotland. Which being Met, did greatly Congratulate His Majesties Accession to the Throne, with promises of much Obedience. And this Parliament made an Act to confirm and secure the Protestant Religion as it was then Establish­ed, by Arch-bishops and Bishops; and did promise in a Let­ter to the King, to do their best to Extirpate Fanatacism, as in those days They counted and called the Presbyterian Government.

On May the 23d. the English Parliament Met at West­minster. At what time His Majesty renewed His Promi­ses made at His first coming to the Crown, viz. To main­tain the Church of England and the Property of the Subject. And withal gave notice of Argyle Landed in Scotland. And immediately the Lords first, and then the Commons, were thankful for the King's Speech, and promised to assist him against Argyle; who coming in well furnished with Armour, Ships and Men, as his case stood, yet met with small Encouragement, managed his business very meanly, fought Cowardly, and in a Month's time was utterly rui­ned and broken, Himself taken, his Son Charles (as was thought) Dead, and all his Company broken. He was executed on the First of July, 1685.

On June the 13th. the Duke of Monmouth, with two or three small Vessels, loaded with a good quantity of Arms, and a few Men, Landed at Lyme in Dorset-shire. But against him also the Parliament unanimously joyned with the King, and giving Him Money to raise an Army, Declared the Duke of Monmouth Traytor by Act of Parliament. But the Duke encreasing his Army mightily at Taunton in Somer­set-shire; managed his Affairs with a notable Conduct and [Page 5]Courage: But finally at Wells his Army beginning to Plun­der, and to break out into Debauchery, he soon after Pe­rished in a Pitch't Battel, some Three miles from Bridgewa­ter; where being worsted for want of good Horse-men. His Foot fought well, until overpowered by the King's Cannons, and His Horse and Foot all together upon them, the Field was lost; and soon after the Duke was Taken, July the 8th. being hid in a Ditch; and being brought to London, he was Beheaded on Tower-Hill: the 15th. of July, 1685. But the L—d G—y being also Taken, Confessed the Confederates, and was Saved.

On July the 12th. was a day of Thanksgiving for the Suc­cess of these Victories. Richard Goodenough was also Taken, who after confessed the Accomplices, and saved his Life. But Ferguson Escaped. Major Wildman, Mr. Speke, Mr. Trenchard, and others. The Lord Delamere, Earl of Stam­ford, and Lord Brandon, were made Prisoners.

From these stirs of Civil Wars, it came to pass that a standing Army was ever after kept up by the King, and the Parliament Adjourned and Prorogued from time to time, it was paid out of the King's own Revenues. And hence Popery encreased with much advance, the Queen and one Father Petre, much spurring on.

On November the 9th. the Parliament met at Westmin­ster, according to Adjournment; at what time the King excusing His Standing-Army kept up, and several Officers allowed against Law, who had not taken the Test. The Parliament not pleased herewith, were soon Prorogued.

On March the 11th. came forth His Majesties Procla­mation of General Pardon, not without many Excepti­ons.

1686. In the Army Popish Officers by degrees filled all vacant Places: As also French and Irish Popish Souldiers mingled in most Troops and Companies. Papists also were admitted into Privy-Council; were made Judges, Sheriffs and Justices, without taking the Test. And in February, 1686. the Earl of Tyrconnel a great Papist, Succeeded the Earl of Clarendon, Lieutenant of Ireland. And the Earl of Rochester [Page 6]refusing to become a Papist, was put out of Place of High Treasurer.

On February the 24th. was Published His Majesties Pro­clamation for Liberty of Conscience to Papists, and all others as could be trusted in the Kingdom of Scotland. For which the Lords of the Privy-Council of that Kingdom, returned their Thanks. Thus His Majesty by uniting the Popish and Presbyterian Interest in Scotland, began to lessen the Authority of the then present established Church by Protestant Bishops.

By this time the Deputy of Ireland being become a Papist, and much of the Council; the Army there; the Sheriffs, Judges and Justices also being mostly Popish, or Popishly affected, Persons in Popish Rebells Estates began to be thrust out apace, even by Law too, by means of those Judges and Sheriffs; and Popish Robbers also multiplied, insomuch as little safety for Protestants began to appear in that King­dom. To quiet which last Oppression, came forth the Pro­clamation from the Deputy, February the 21st.

On March the 18th. His Majesty declared His intention to grant Liberty of Conscience unto all Persons of what Per­swasion soever: And the better to Father His design, He Prorogued the Parliament to November 87. And on April the 4th. 1687, His Majesties Declaration to all His loving Subjects for Liberty of Conscience came forth.

Hence followed a crowd of Congratulatory Addresses, from all sorts of Dissenters. The first who began this Holy Dance after His Majesties Pipe, was a great number of Anabaptists in and about London; and being delivered by several of the Chief of them, April the 14th. was called,

The Humble Address of divers of Your Majesties Subjects in and about the City of London, commonly called Anabaptists; and saith,

WE Your Majesties most Humble and Loyal Sabjects, who have been of a Long time great Sufferers, by the severe Execu­tion of Poenal Laws about matters of Religion, (unto which for Conscience sake we could not conform) cannot sufficiently pay those acknowledgments we owe to Your Majesty for your late Most Gracious Declaration, whereby we are not only delivered from [Page 7]our past Distresses, and our Families from Ruine, but are also allowed the free exercise of our Religion; which is dearer to us than any Worldly Enjoyment.

Great Sir, 'tis the fense of this invaluable Favour, and be­nefit derived to Us from Your Royal Clemency, that compels us once more to Prostrate our selves at Your Majestics Feet, with the tender of our most humble Thanks for that Peace and Liber­ty which both we and all other Dissen [...]ers do now enjoy; and rest confident of, under Your most Gracious Protection.

And being our selves most firmly resolved (as in Conscience bound) to endeavour to the utmost to give that proof of our Duty and Fidelity to Your Majesty, that you may never have occasion to repent of Your Princely favour towards us. We can­not but rest confident, That such demonstrations as these of Your Majesties tender care of the Prosperity and quiet of Your Peace­able Subjects of all sorts, (though differing in some Sentiments of Religion) will so absolutely command the Hearts of them all, that the only Emulation among them will be, who may approve themselves best worthy of your Majesties favour, and contribute most towards the glory and happiness of your Reign.

And that God Almighty by pouring out His signal Blessings up­on Your Majesty, Your Royal Posterity, Government, and Peo­ple, will be pleased to convince the whole World of the Wisdom and truth of Your Majesties Sentiments, &c.]

Such were the whileom thoughts of the Anabaptists, of King James, notwithstanding all His endeavours of advan­cing Popery, who appeared in this Address,

A sort of People avowing themselves so exceedingly obliged to King James for favours done them, that their utmost proof of Duty and Fidelity to His Majesty, can never enough satisfie; until They give Him occasion never to repent of those princely favours to them. Which if so, then either by this Address they think themselves bound in Conscience to adventure their Lives to Restore Him a­gain to His Throne: (for otherwise he must needs re­pent of His Princely favours to them, in vain bestowed:) Or else they have hereby declared themselves, a company of meer empty flattering Sycophants, promising that which they [Page 8]never intended. And now was it true as is said in the Ad­dress, then are they themselves the Men bound to bring in King James, against all sense of the Opinion of His most Excellent Majesty King William, in His Declaration expressed, and of the late Parliament, in declaring the Go­vernment of the Kingdom by King James to be Forfeited, by reason of Mis-government. Or if otherwise, (they say what they never intended.) Then is no Credit to be given to any thing they say; their Tongues are no Slander; the Anabaptists in and about London, are a Profligate Peo­ple, of the Sperm of John of Leydon and Knipperdoling; a company of branded Hypocrites, never to be believed or trusted.

They pretend to have an absolute Confidence in King James, as to His tender care of the Peace and quiet of His Subjects; they pretend to strive against all Dissen­ters with Emulation, to do more for Him than all of them. They pretend to be bound to Wish, Pray, and Fight, and to do all that may be done, that His Majesty and the Prince of Wales His Son, and His Government may be Blessed. And so by consequence they must hold, that all opposers ought to be Accursed. And yet these Men cry'd out against the late choosers of New Members, [That they would bring in King James again.]

On May the 10th. was presented to the King, [The most Humble Address of the Anabaptists in Leicester-shire.] Wherein these also acknowledge as the former, Their Thankfulness for the King's Declaration; and promising most faithfully and ambitiously to Serve Him with their Obedience and Loyalty in all ways to ihe best of His Advantage; Pray­ing for Him and His Posterity. And on May the 14th. came in more of the same from Exeter in the same County.

On May the 17th. was Presented the Humble Address of the Independents and Anabaptists of Gloucester-shire, Magnify­ing His Majesties Wisdom and Clemency with Hyperboli­cal Language, stiling Him the Rightful Father of His Do­minions; Praying Him there may be a Total Abolishment of the Poenal Statutes concerning Religion, and promising Him [Page 9] Exemplary Loyalty; and concluding with [Long Live and Reign King James the Just.]

On May the 21st. was Presented [The Humble Address of the Anabaptists of Stafford, Derby and Nottingham shires] promising Their utmost Loyalty to Him, even unto the making of Him Great throughout all the World. And at the same time came forth another Address of the Anabaptists of Che-shire, Shrop-shire and Stafford-shire, stiling His Majesty, A Prince by Heaven designed for the highest Pattern of Royal Goodness and true Policy; and promising to serve Him with such ready Obedience and stedfast Loyalty, to the utmost of their Capacity, in their Station, as it shall not be possible for any other Subjects to exceed.

On May the 28th. was presented to His Majesty the Humble Address of the Anabaptists of the City of Bristol; acknowledging, promising, and wishing much after the manner as those before.

On June the 18th. was Presented the Humble Address of the Anabaptists of Kent, acknowledging, promising and wishing like their preceeding Brethren; acknowledging the King, though a (Zealous Papist) yet the most tender and affectionate Prince that ever sway'd the Scepter of His Empire; out-doing all expectation and desert of His Subjects; promising Submission to Him under God, and that unfeignedly, in all things commanded them by Him; Praying that God may grant Him whatsoever may be needful, for His then present and future Happiness.

On June the 29th. was Presented to His Majesty the Humble Address of the Anabaptists of Middlesex, Hertford, Bucks, Oxon, Warwick, Northampton, Lincoln, Huntington, Bedford, Cambridge, Essex, Kent Surry, Sussex, Southampton and Dorset-shires, Confirming with very Hyperbolical Compli­ments, all things afore promised and owned by the rest of Their preceding Brethren.

And after all these was presented, yet one more Humble Address of the Anabaptists of Oxford, Abbington, and Wan­tage, with the same Flatteries and Warranties as their Fel­lows. They had once afore Addressed in that of the [Page 10]Counties of Oxon and Berks: But it seems these Anabaptisto-Papists could not rest so without a peculiar application, so proud it seems they were of their Interest in a Popish Prince.

And by all these Addresses, it appears plainly, that not only the most part, if not all the Anabaptists in and about Lon­don, but all over England, have voluntarily and freely engaged themselves unto their utmost to aid and assist King James in taking off the Test and all Poenal Laws; and by conse­quence to open the ancient Floud gates of Stoppage, and to let in an Inundation of Popery, to over-run and drown not only the Church of England, but also the whole King­dom, with an overflow of Popish Oppressions.

Now true it is, that Liberty of Conscience is a matter not reasonably of any Power to be denied unto any of its Sub­jects, and cannot be spoken against. But Liberty of Schism is quite another thing, and such as Holy Writ utterly Ab­hors. It is the will of God [that all Christians be of one mind, Eph. 4.1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 1 Cor. 1.10.] And we know what an heinous thing it was esteemed by St. Paul, [That there were Divisions in the Church, the Members dividing and separating into Parties, (ver. 11, 12, &c.)] And these things both Magistrates and Ministers ought to remedy to the best of their skill. And in Old times they were always esteemed good Kings who punished Innovations in Religion, and that with Severity. And the Apostles in the New Testament were as urgent to the same purpose, [to reject all Hereticks, (Tit. 3.10.2 Joh. ver. 9, 10, 11. and 3 Joh. ver. 9, 10.)] Such Paul accurseth, (Gal. 1.8.) And wisheth such Perverters who trouble the Church, that they might be cut off, (Gal. 5.12.)

Consider we therefore, that the Anabaptists, being a perni­cious sort of People, dangerous both to Church and State, wherever they have crept into Power: As was manifest at Amsterdam, and after at Munster in Germany, and since in Eng­land, in times of the late Rebellion: And are a Sect that do hold Dectrines destructive to the Peace of Church and State, denying the Power of the Civil Magistrate in many things; [Page 11]and do maintain a Church against a Church, and Altar against Altar in the same Church; and set up Lay Preachers, and maintain Re-baptizing. All which Doctrines, being by the General Councils in purest Primitive times Forbidden, and Accursed and declared to be Schismatical and Haeretical, can­not be called matters of Conscience, no more than Theft and Fornication can be so called. Against Re baptizing, see Can. 4. Apost. and Can. Prim. Carthag. confirmed by the [Can. Secund. Concil. Oecumen. Constant.] against Lay-Preachers, and set­ting up Altar against Altar, see Can. 16, and 17. Concil. Millev. and all the first six General Councils. Now what­soever is Condemned by any of the Six, or at least Four first General Councils, cannot be maintained as matter of Conscience, it being plain matter of Schism. And all Schism is by the Magistrate to be punished equally with Murther and Adultery, and therefore not to be Tolerated. And yet we see how friendly these Haereticks and Schisma­ticks, the Anabaptists and Papists do Hug each other; no Hand and Glove did ever better fit one the other.

It was six Weeks after the Anabaptists e'er any other Sect advanced, the poor Men of the West only excepted, (who being Pardoned their Lives, had just cause to be thankful.) But Thousands of their Fellows had not that opportunity. And yet on April the 30th the Presbyterians, Quakers, and Independents, came in altogether of a Cluster: Whereof the Presbyterians marched in the Front, whose Humble Address was presented to His Majesty, by the name of Several Ministers of the Gospel in and about the City of London, com­monly called Presbyterians; Who [Acknowledging with great joy, His Majesties Royal bounty and Christian judgment, and Fatherly inclination to Them, and Their just security under His Protection: And promising with a constant Emulation, that They will strive to be most forward and faithful, in Their Allegiance to His Person and Crown; do wish and pray He may enjoy a long Reign over Them.]

The Anabaptists were forward in their Promises, but these appear as it were their Rivals, striving to outdo them. At the same time also was Presented the [Humble Address [Page 12]of Their Brethren and Kinsfolks of Westminster.] Who the Place and stile considered, do evidence these Anonymous Addressers to have been Mr. Alsop and his Flock, who pre­senting the Addrese, spake as follows, [Oh, that we had but Windows in our Hearts, that Your Majesty might see our Loyalty!] Bespeaking themselves much to the same purpose with the London Presbyters, but in a more gilded Stile and Hyperbo­lick Language, do promise high both by Prayers and En­deavours, to contrive a most blessed Union between the King and His Papists on the one hand, and Themselves on the other; Which things seriously weighed; read but their Promises and Subscriptions, and then who will be judge, let him speak but plain truth, and so tell who are in earnest those Men (whatever they give out) who are for the bring­ing in again of King James the Second, and a Popish Govern­ment! Or if not, then say at least what pitiful Flatterers have been those London Presbyterians, Ministers of the Gospel, and Loyal Subjects of Westminster, but Men of a Punick Faith, no more to be believed than the Impostor Mahomet, who by his Golden Promises drew in a third part of the World to be his Proselytes, in expectation of his coming at a Thousand years end, to give them the Rule all over the World! But his day being long since come and gone, the good Man forgetting his Word, fell fast asleep, and his Faith became transmigrated into a very Lie. And such was the Faith of these doubty Presbyterians unto King James, when he stood most in need of them.

On May the 14th. was presented The Humble Thanks of several Subjects of Exon and the County of Devon, Nonconfor­mists: Acknowledging His Majesty, Their free, Gracious and wonderful Deliverer: Declaring that They had no hand in the Rebellion of 85. And that they do heartily hate that, and all Rebellion upon any pretence whatsoever. That they are thankful for the Liberty given by the Declaration of Indulgence the 4th. of April, 1687. And do promise all due Obedience; and pray for God's greatest Blessings on His Majesty.

Now all other Addressers were wont to say in their Ad­dresses what Perswasion they were of: Only the Presbyteri­ans [Page 13]as if ashamed to appear plainly courting Popery, in many of their first Addresses concealed their name of Presbyterian. But by the name Noncon, almost proper to that Sect alone, and by the Stile, we humbly conceive what these Addressers were; the Brethren of Mr. Knox and Buchanan, and lineally Descended from that Generation of the Assembly of 48, who held King Charles the First, while the Independents and Ana­baptists cut off His Head: And yet loe how demurely they can wipe their Mouths like the Whore in the Proverbs, (Ch. 30.20.) saying, they have done no hurt, and how much they abhor Rebellion upon any pretence whatsoever; while at the same time it is the known Principle of those of that Perswasion, That their Kings may be Excommunicated, called to account, and Con­demned and Executed. See Buch. de jure Regni, &c.

On May the 21st. was presented [The Humble Address of the Nonconforming Loyal Subjects of New-Castle upon Tyne. Acknowledging wonderful Thanks for His Majesties Indul­gence; stiling him a Peaceably disposed Prince, and promising cheerful and dutiful Obedience to Him, and to serve Him at their utmost Hazard.

On May the 25th. was presented [The Humble Address of the Dissenting Subjects of Taunton in Somerset-shire:] Ac­knowledging His Majesties Indulgence to be a greater Obliga­tion to them to Duty and Allegiance, than all the Oaths, Tests and Subscriptions that could have been Imposed: Promising His Ma­jesty shall never repent of those Favours to them: And wishing and praying, that all the Blessings of Heaven may for ever Crown His Sacred Majesty.

On May the 28th. was presented [The Hamble Address of the Presbyterians of Bristol;] proclaiming their Acquaintance with His Majesty, of Old, and before He came to the Crown, and how in those days, He had promised His intentions of Indulgence to them: Declaring that they question not in the least His resolution to preserve this their Happiness with the injoyments of their Pro­perties, according to the assurances of His Declaration, since they knew it to proceed from a mature Judgment, and a Principle root­ed in His Majesty: And promising to out-do all Men of their Capacity, in all such things which have a tendency towards the promoting the Peace and Prosperity of His Majesties Reign: And [Page 14]praying for Him with imploring words, that His Majesties self and Family, (viz. The Prince of Wales) may abound with the best of Blessings.

Loe we, what a Discovery is here confessed out of this Address, of a Confoederacy between the Papists and Presby­terians, of long standing, in order to promote the King's Declaration of Indulgence, for Liberty of Conscience, or rather of the common Schisms that both those Sects are guilty of. But who will think that these Presbyterians of Bristol were the only Men of such Confoederacy, without their Brethren of London! And if not, then let any reasonable Man be judge who they are that are for the bringing in again of King, James, and not only so, but are obliged by promise so to do; and have no ways to disengage themselves unto him left, but by proclaiming themselves the greatest Impo­stors in nature, the loudest Liars and veriest Vilains living: For it is manifest to all the Kingdom, that how much so­ever in King James's time the Properties were Invaded of the Church of England men, yet those of the Presbyterians, Anabaptists, Quakers, Independents, Roman-Catholicks and Popish-Churchmen, were never stirred.

On June the 4th. was presented [The Humble Address of the Presbyterians of Norwich.] In all acknowledgments, De­clarations and Promises, striving to overdo their Brethren of Bristol, concluding and heartily crying with one Voice, [Let the King live for ever.] whence say we with Admiration, Oh what a great King James man was this Presbyterian; or else he was as great an Impostor!

On Jame the 7th. was presented [The Humble Address of the Loyal Subjects of Teverton in Devon-shire; (that is, the Dissenters or Presbyterians there) in all things concurring with their Brethren of Norwich, only in variety of new Lan­guage, somewhat different.]

On June the 11th. was presented [The Humble Address of several Benchers and Barristers of the Middle-Temple.] Giving Thanks for the Gracious Declaration for Toleration, and asserting His Majesties Royal Prerogative, and wishing him a long, happy and glorious Reign. But what were these Lawyers? Not Qua­kers nor Anabaptists sure, Presbyterians they might be, and per­haps [Page 15]some Papists. We have only hinted the matter of Fact. And rarely can be found any Divided Party without some Lawyers among them, especially where a Cause is Thriving.

On June the 14th. was presented [The Humble Address of the Subjects of Plymouth, Nonconformists or Presbyterians; wherein appears a concurrence with their Brethren in all Acknowledgments, Promises and Wishes, and words, only in different Language.

At the same time was presented [The Humble Address of many Thousand Citizens of Coventry.] Much to the same purpose with those of Plymouth.

At the same time also was presented [The Humble Address of the Merchants and considerable Traders of Exon.] These also (Noncons, or Presbyterians) Giving great Thanks for the De­claration of Indulgence, did unanimously declare as the Resolution of one Man, that when ever His Majesties Occasions should re­quire it; That the utmost drop of their Bloud, and expence of their Fortunes should be at His Majesties dispose; and concluded Wish­ing and Imploring God Almighty, that so Wise, Pious and Just a Monarch may be a long Ruler and Conservator in Peace and Hap­piness, of the Kingdoms and Dominions belonging to His Impe­rial Crown.

At the same time also, much to the same purpose, was presented the [Humble Address of the Protestant Dissenting Sub­jects of Berwick upon Tweed. And of the Loyal Dissenting Subjects of Marlborough in Wiltshire.

On June the 20th. the Humble Address of the Presbyte­rian Ministers and their Congregations, in and about Dublin in Ireland, was presented to King James, being Transmitted to Him by the Lord Deputy the Earl of Tyrconnel, a fierce Papist, and against the Law put in place, without taking the Test. Notwithstanding these pretended Protestants cal­led Presbyterians, in order to Support their sinful Schism of Factious Conventions, by maintaining Altar against Altar, against the Good Canons of the Holy General Councils, did shamefully comply with the most designing Papists, against all Laws of God and man, to trample under foot both Law and Re­ligion; Flattering the King's Majesty like their Fellows in [Page 16] England, with their Hyperbolick thanks for His Suppressing the good Laws of the Kingdom, and promising to stand by Him with encouragements past room for fear in His Royal Breast. And yet loe, how much it is since come to pass, that through the Treachery of these Promises His Flattered and Deluded Majesty hath been utterly overwhelmed with endless Fears, and desperate Hopes.

On June the 25th. was presented the Humble Address of several Dissenting Ministers, that is, Presbyterians of the West part of Somerset-shire, proclaiming His Majesties transcendent Goodness, and wishing him the Choicest of all Blessings in Hea­ven and Earth; (that is, never to be interrupted in His Reign by His Highness the Prince of Orange, or any other Mortal breathing) but that His Reign may be long and Pros­perous, and to be had in remembrance to all Generations, &c.

On July the 1st. was presented the Humble and Thankful Address of the most Loyal Subjects, (that is, the Presbyterians) of Kings-bridge in Devonshire, Thanking and Promising like their Fellows.

And on July the 9th. was presented another of the fame from the Loyal Subjects, (Nonconforming Presbyterians) in and about York. And another of the same from those of Malden, Cogshal, Chelmsford, Braintree, Witham, and Halsted in Essex. This was stuffed with very much of affected Lan­guage: Acknowledging Miraculous Providences preserving His Majesty by Sea and Land, as it were on purpose to suppress and stifle the good Laws of this Kingdom: Which act agreeing with these Mens Lusts, though against the Wisdom and Sense of the whole Kingdom met in Parliament, these do stile to do great Services designed of the Almighty to be done by Him. And this they stile the most Melodious Harp to Charm all evil Spirits, that many other Princes had no skill to use, &c. Which Passages whether they savor more of affected Non­sense, or of a sort of Blasphemous Flattery, by calling Good, Evil, or Evil, Good, I leave to the Readers Censure.

On July the 12th. was presented [The Humble Address of the Loyal Subjects (or Presbyterians) of Wellingborough, Kette­ring, Rothwell, Wellford and Creaton in Northampton-shire.] Pro­mising, [Page 17]Admiring, Flattering, &c. as the rest: But especially magnifying His Majesties Royal word, though he was a Papist, and promising to men by Papists, reputed Hereticks, as the Laws of the Medes and Persians, unalterable.

On July the 17th. were presented three Presbyterian Ad­dresses, whereof one from South Molton, and another from Ashburton in Devonshire, and a third from the Shire Town of Northampton, Promising after the old rate, excepting that that from Northampton kept more within compass of Mode­ration than any which had gone before.

On July the 23d. came in the Humble Address of the Loyal Subjects, (otherwise Presbyterians) of the Province of Munster in Ireland, Transmitted by the Earl of Tyrconnel. And another from the County of Essex. Both full of Flatteries as before.

On July the 26th. was presented from the Noncon Mini­sters of Lanca-shire, the like Flattering Address to His Ma­jesty. And on the 30th. of the same, came in another of the Noncons of the Wapentake of Loynsdale in the same Coun­ty, also stufft with the like Flatteries. And on August the 2d. came in the like from the Presbyterians of Colchester; Pro­mising to answer His Majesties transcendent Grace toward them, with as constant Obedience towards Him: Wishing and Praying for all the Divine Beatitudes of God, to be poured on His Majesty and Royal Family.

On August the 9th. was presented the [Humble Address of all the Presbyterian Ministers in Scotland] Promising to be­come Loyal Subjects, yea though against all their Practices and Principles to the contrary, the King being at the same time a known Papist.

On August the 13th. came in the Address of the Protestant Dissenters of Plymouth: Acknowledging and Promising much after the rate of those of Essex Mart Towns. And another at the same time from Sheffeild in York-shire; not without its Flatteries. Another Aug. 18th. of the same Stamp from Cockermouth in Cumberland. And another at the same time from Leathward in the same County. But that of the Dissenting Merchants and Trades-men in and about Lon­don, exceeded at the same time, exceeded for Flattery and [Page 18]Blasphemy; comparing King James a known Popish Prince, to Moses, and our Poenal Laws, to the Yoak, Sla­very and Bondage of Aegypt; and worse than that. And that of the Dutiful and Obedient Subjects of Chichester; compa­ring the King's Act of Indulgence with the greatest acts of Wisdom, and extolling it unto the Skies. And that of the Freemen of Bath, August the 22d. Acknowledging the Kings undoubted Prerogative by His Gracious Declaration to stifle the force of Law, which they call consistent with true Piety; were notoriously Flattering.

On August the 25th. was presented the conceited Humble Address of the Dissenting Protestants of Romsey, Ringwood, Fordingbridge and Christ-Church in Hant-shire, fond and full of Flattery.

On August the 29th. was brought forth the Address of Worcester Presbyterian Ministers, and of the Master-Builders and other Artificers about London. And of the Protestant Dissenters about Shrewsbury. And of the Peaceable Dissenters of Namptwich, Wem, and Whit-church in Shrop-shire. And of the Protestant Dissenters of Oswestree in the same County. All bespeaking the Common Language of their Fellows.

September the 1st. came forth the Addresses of the Dissen­ters of Chester. Of the Loving (Subjects, called Presbyteri­ans) of Macclesfeild. And September the 8th. of the Loyal Subjects the Stroudwater Clothiers in Gloucester-shire. And of the Free-men of the Borough of Banbury, and of the Inha­bitants of Dorchester. And September the 12th. of the Pro­testant Dissenters of Oxford-shire. And on September the 15th. of the Presbyterian Ministers of Derby and Nottingham-Shires: All full of Flattery, and promising dutiful Obedience.

On September the 22d. came out the Address of the Presbyterian Ministers of Edenburg and Canongate, starting this New Doctrine, that there is no inconsistency betwixt true Loyalty and Presbyterian Principles, &c. And yet time hath since shewn the quite contrary from the same Ministers. On September the 29th. the thankful Address of the Protestant Dissenters of Salisbury, the Devizes, Cane, Chippenham, West­bury, Warmister, Throw-bridge and Bradford in Wiltshire. All speaking after the same Canting way of flattery. The

The Humble Address of the Electors of Ladgeshal in Wilt­shire, at the same time promised always to choose such Mem­bers as should be Faithful and Serviceable to the Crown; that is, unto the Popish Interest, the King being a known Papist. At the same time also the Addresses of the Loyal Sub­jects of Andover, Whit-church and Clotford, bespeak the old Language of Flattery. And that of the Subjects of Ciren­cester in Gloucester-shire, coming forth at the same time, pro­mising to choose such Members as shall comply with His Majesty in putting down Poenal Laws, and by consequence promote Popery. Also at the same time the Address of the Noncons of Reading, Abbington and Newbury. And another of the Pres­byterians of Nottingham. Also October the 6th. the Address of the Loyal Subjects the Combers, Weavers, and other La­bourers of Taunton in Somerset-shire. Also October the 17th. of the Presbyterian Ministers and their Congregation in East Somerset-shire, Bath, Shipton, Froom Bruton, Wincaunton, Mil­burn, Frary, Inscomb. And another from the truly Loyal Sub­jects of Honiton in Devon-shire. Also another from the Loyal Subjects of Pembrook, Carmarthen, Cardigan, and the Town of Swanzey in Glamorgan-shire, Presbyterian Ministers, Indepen­dents and Anabaptists, with their Congregations. Also ano­ther of the Dutiful Subjects, the Noncons of Kingston upon Thames. Also another from the Dutiful Dissenting Subjects of Cambridge. Also another from the Presbyterian Subjects of Hull, and of two numerous Congregations there. Also a­nother from Weobly in Hereford shire. Also another from the the Loyal and Faithful Subjects of Portsmouth. All pro­mising Mountains of Obedience, and extolling His Indul­gence; whereof those of Hull and Weobly do much exceed. On October the 24th. followed the Addresses of the Presbyte­rians of King's Lynne, and of the Noncon Ministers of Dorset-shire. And on November the 3d. the Impatient, but most Loyal Subjects, the Free holders and others of Chard in Somerset-shire. On November the 14th. the Presbyterians of Maidstone. On November the 21st. the Dissenting Subjects of Lewes in Sussex; and the Protestant Dissenting Subjects of Can­terbury in Kent. And of the Obedient Dissenters of Tenter­den, [Page 20]Cranbrok, and Staplehurst in Kent. On December the 1st. the Ministers of the Gospel in New-England, and the Loyal Inha­habitants of Hertford, did bring forth their several Addresses of Thanks, and promises of Obedience, and all possible good Wishes: Whereof those of Hertford promised to choose Members for Parliament as should be acceptable to His Majesty, and supporters of His Prerogative.

On December the 15th. several Ministers Dissenters of Lei­cester-shire, were the last which presented their Flattering Address unto His Majesty King James the Second.

Now these Presbyterians are a new Sect of Schismaticks, Introduced by Mr. John Calvin at Geneva; from whence they have spread their Doctrines into Germany and France, and into Scotland, and also into England: And are so cal­led from the Parity of their Clergy, being all Presbyters, without any Bishops or Superintendants among them. And are a People generally affecting Government by a Common­wealth, and hating Monarchy in the State as well as in the Church. And as appears by their Writings and Practices, they hold with Papists and Jesuits, that Kings may be Excom­municated and Deposed; and in case of a Corrupt Prince, they hold Rebellion to be no Crime. [Buchanan de jure Regni, and the practices of the late Wars of the Parliament, 1641. against their King, Charles the First.]

The first who attempted to introduce this Presbyterian Schism, was Aerius, who was therefore Branded by the Church for a Schismatick: But being nipp'd in the Bud, in those days he had no Disciples. Howbeit this Presbyterianism is a Rent from the Church, opposing all the Six first General Councils, which do forbid any Presbyter in contempt of his Bi­shop, to gather any separate Congregation of his own, [Can. Apost. xxxii.] Nicaeni Concil. Can. 16. Arelatens Concil. Can. 19. Gangren. Concil. Can. 6. Antiochen. Concil. Can. 5. Car­thaginens. Concil. ii. Can. 11.] And forbid any Bishop to be Or­dained without three Bishops, and any Presbyter or Deacon to be Ordained without one Bishop present, [Nicaeni Concil, ii. Can 4. Can. 6. Can. Apost. 1, 2, 7.] Ant. Concil. Can. 9. The Canons of these General Councils of the Holy Primitive times, are the [Page 21]Bonds of the Church, which whosoever breaks, is a Schis­matick. And there can be no pretence of Conscience to justifie Schism: but the Magistrate ought to punish it. And though Liberty of Conscience ought to be allowed, yet no Li­berty of Schism. And though in case the Magistrate shall dispense with the punishment of Schism, and we know not under God, who shall call him to account for such Neg­lect: Yet is it a sin which God will certainly Punish; and therefore woe be unto those Flatterers who in such Cases, do call Evil Good, and Good, Evil!

Next after that of the Presbyterian Ministers, was Publish­ed on the same day April the 30th. 1687. [The Humble and Thankful Address of the King's Subjects, commonly called Quakers, in and about the City of London.] And these also glory in it, that they were of Cabinet Council with the King, acknowledging that They were privy to the design of the Declaration for Liberty, long before it came forth; and with great joy declare Their Thanks, that they have such a King of such a Principle, promising Him always to approve themselves His faithful and loving Subjects.

And on May the 25th. came forth [The Humble and grate­ful Acknowledgment of the peaceable Subjects called Quakers in this Kingdom, from their usual Yearly Meeting in London, the 19th. day of the Third Month, Vulgarly called May, 1687. Bespeaking in all things as the former, in the name of the Quakers all over England.

On June the 18th. came forth [The grateful Acknowledge­ment of the People called Quakers of Scotland] Proclaiming God's wonderful Providence, who made the King's retiring into their Country give an happy turn to His Affairs, to the Defeating the Designs of His Enemies; acknowledging His great Kindnesses to them, for favouring them in 1679. And so proceeding in Hyperbolical Thankfulness, they conclude with promises of Obedience. On August the 18th. much after the same rate was brought in from the Quakers of the West of Scotland. And on August the 26th. came the like from the Qua­kers of Ireland, Transmitted to the King by the Earl of Tyrconnel, the Lord Deputy there. On September the [Page 22] 29th. (the King being in His Progress) the [Hearty welcome and humble Salutation of the peaceable Subjects, called Quakers, of Wales and the North West of England.] Bespeaking in their Canting way their welcome of him into those Parts; their joy of Him, and promises of Obedience. And so al­so came in the [Humble Congratulation of the peaceable Sub­jects of Bristol, called Quakers;] bespeaking much as the rest.

These Quakers generally, an Ignorant sort of People, of uncertain Principles of Religion, and without any or­derly Confession of Faith, have broached many old Haere­sies; and as is apparent, have many hidden Papists among them, and are thought to be much Popishly inclined; and many of them appear as it were Paganish, and seem as if inspired with Diabolical Delusions and Enthusiasms; and are a dangerous sort of Haereticks, pretending to be perfect in Righteousness, full of the Light of the Spirit, do much debase if not deny the use of God's holy Ordinances, pretending to be above them: And therefore plainly appearing to be a People void of all Conscience, damnable Haereticks: And yet these also under pretence of Liberty of Conscience, must have Liberty to sow their Tares of Haeresies all over the three King­doms of England, Scotland and Ireland, and boast themselves as the great Confidents of King James the Second. And among the rest of the Pillars of Popery, Voted for the Old Members in London, and were of the number of those Upbraiders of the New Members, [That they would bring in King James again.]

After that of the Quakers, on the same day, April the 30th. 1687. came forth the Humble Address of the Loyal Subjects of the Congregational Perswasion, (otherwise called Indepen­dants) in and about the City of London. Acknowledging His Majesties Declaration a Transcendent and Unparallel'd favour, promising their constant Endeavour to answer His Ma­jesties just Expectations from them, (that is, to choose Mem­bers of Parliament for His Majesties Interest) Approving themselves in Inclination as well as Duty, His Majesties most Loyal Subjects.

These were the chief and prime actors in the Mur­ther of King Charles the First, as the Principal designers in the whole Tragedy: And yet now to see to, are as Zealous to make amends for all their Regicide, by a most firm Affection and Diligence to maintain His Son in all His Popish Designs, as from their own Profession is most plainly signified.

On May the 14th. the [Gratulatory Address of the Peo­ple of the Congregational Perswasion of the City of Norwich] was presented to His Majesty; Acknowledging Him Placed on the Throne of this Realm by the most High God, as Natural, Legal, and Rightful King, (it seems notwith­standing His being a Zealous Papist, and violently Trans­gressing against the known Laws of the Land;) yet in the whole course of his Reign a Wise and Merciful King. Also acknowledging that they are for Monarchy, as the only An cient, Legal and Rightful Government of this Nation. (It is to be remembred, that these were the late Oliverians, who turned out the Rump, to set up the Protector.) That His Majesty hath taken care as a Common Father, for the good of all his People: Wherefore they shall adhere unto him as their King, with all Loyalty, Fidelity and hearty Ser­vice to their power.

On May the 17th. was Published the Address of the Independents and Anabaptists together: of which already said in the Anabaptist Address for Gloucester.

Now these Independents either spake truth from their Hearts, or Dissembled: If the last, Then who shall believe them hereafter? If the first, Then they are still in their Hearts for the bringing in of King James again. And if so, why then upbraided they the New Members of London, lately Nominated, that they would bring him in? But will they say they are Changed, yet must they go for Impostors and false Villains; for King James kept fair with them to the last, however he Opprest the Church­men. But what can we expect from the Sons of Murther­ers? They smell of the Bloud of the Father; they are false to the Son, and cannot be true to the Grand-child. [Page 24]And it's to be fear'd in the end will be found false to their own Souls.

On May the 28th. came forth the Joynt Address of the Independents and Anabaptists of Bristol: which has been mentioned before in the Addresses of Anabaptists. And on June the 11th. appeared another Address of the Loyal Subjects of the Congregational Perswasion dwelling in Ipswich, Eury St. Edmunds, &c. in Suffolk: Acknowledging King James to be their Covering Cherub; under whose refreshing Shadow they promise themselves Rest: Promising truly to sub­serve therefore the Interest of His Majesties Power and Great­ness: Which in plain terms, was as much as to say, [The Ad­vance of the Popish Religion.] At the same time also was Pub­lished, the Humble Address of the Most Dutiful and Loyal Subjects of the Congregational Perswasion of Great Yarmouth in Norfolk. Acknowledging, Praising, promising, and Praying, as their Fellows before them. On July the 4th. became Publick the Humble Address of the Loyal Subjects of the Congregational Perswasion of Bidford in Devonshire. And another August the 2d. of the same, of the Norfolkshire-men. And another September the 1st. of the Presbyterian and Congregational Nonconformists of Macclesfeild in Che­shire. And another September the 29th, of the Congrega­tional Perswasion of the Counties of North Wales and Shrews­bury. And October the 17th. another of the same, toge­ther with the Presbyterians and Anabaptists of Pembroke, Caermarthen, Cardigan and Swansey, in Glamorganshire. And November the 14th. Another of the same from Hitching and Hertford in Hertford-shire. All bespeaking much to the same purpose, in extolling the Vertue and Wisdom of King James, and promising Him their utmost Ser­vice in furtherance of His Designs. Only this last more expresly promises, to do their utmost that such Persons may be chosen to sit in Parliament as will concur with His Majesty that Liberty may be setled by an unalterable Law, and that His Majesty may be the greatest Monarch on Earth.

Such was the Sense of these Independent Addresses. Now these Independents are a sort of Schismaticks, adhering [Page 25]partly with the Presbyterians, and partly with the Anabap­tists, and in a middle way between both, are a sort of Here­ticks who denying the power of Bishops in Ordination and Constitution of Churches, against all Orders; of Christ and his Apostles, set up Churches in the name of Themselves, dependent upon no other Authority except the Electi­ons of the People: And being Renders of Christ's Seamless Coat, ought to have been Suppressed: However having nothing of any case of Conscience to plead for Their Schisms, ought rather (as men weed out Tares from among their Wheat) to have been rooted up out of God's Church; or at least ought not to have been Cherished, as when the Tares are suffered to overtop and shoulder out the good seed. However, Liberty of Conscience ought not to have been made a Cloak for Liberty of Schism.

Such were the four first Pillars of Popery. Which four having begun the Work, anon after followed certain popishly inclined Members of the Church of England, who minding the love of the World more than their Religion they professed, Flattered the King's Majesty with their Addresses also. The first beginners were the Unanimous Address of the Bishop, Dean, and Chapter of the Cathedral Church of Durham, and the rest of the Clergy of that Dioecess, on May the 17th. 1687. Acknowledging His Majesties favour in promising to Protect His Archbishops, Bishops, and Clergy, &c.

Now His Majesty by His Declaration of Toleration, had broken down the Hedge whereby the Rights of the Church were to be preserved, and had let in the Wild-Beasts, the Swine to devour the Grapes, and the Kine to break down the Boughs, and the Wild-Boar to root up the Trees of God's Vineyard; only the Arch-Bishops, &c. were Protected to stand by and look on without Molestation, but were to have no power to fray one Cow, or to hunt out one Hog, do they never so much Mischief. Now the truth is, the Declaration of Indulgence, was a thing Inconsistent with it self: That His Majesty should at once protect and maintain all manner of Haereticks and [Page 26] Schismaticks, which destroy the Church; and yet do as much for the Pastors of the Flock, who are to defend the Church from such destroying Wolves as are the Haereticks, &c. That he should at once maintain the Canons of Holy Councils, which are the true Rights of the Church, and yet at the same time maintain all those who break those Canons to pieces! And yet loe how these tame Cattel come in with their Address to Thank His Majesty, that in preserving the Thieves and Robbers, He promises notwithstanding, that he will not destroy the Housholder. This was an odd sort of Flattery; like the Man who meeting his Physician, prayed him not to be angry that he was not yet Sick. But to guess at these mens meaning the Bishop, Dean, Chapter, and Clergy, among the Quakers, Anabaptists, Presbyterians, and Independents, Ad­dressing for the Declaration: It must follow that either the Men designing in conclusion to turn Papists, were found also among the Addressers, in hopes upon the fall of the Church, to share in her Spoils: Or else at best they were a sort of timerous Rats, who thinking the House to be falling down, did run between the Legs of the Destroyers for Refuge.

After these, came in the Addresses of the Mayor, Alder­men, Common Council and Free-men of the City of Durham; bespeaking the very Language of their Right Reverend Bishop, May 28. And at the same time was published the Humble Address of the Lord Bishop, the Dean and Prebendaries of the Cathedral Church of Chester, and the rest of the Clergy of the Arch deanries of Chester and Rich­mond, &c. Then followed the Address, of the Mayor, Aldermen, &c. of Richmond and Chester, the Subjects of the Right Reverend Father of those Places. June 11th. next follows the Address of the Bishop, Dean, Arch Deacon and Clergy of the Diocess of Lincoln. (Now to guess at the length of Hercules by his Foot, we know that ten for one of that Dioecess opposed the Address; and yet it is called the Address of the Arch deacons and Clergy; and so it was of some of them: And thus it's probable it was also [Page 27]in the Dioecess of Durham and Chester. This July the 1st. And on the 5th. was publick that of the Dean and Chap­ter of Rippon in York-shire. Then followed that of the Bishop and Clergy of the Dioecess of Coventry and Litchfield, July 9th. And lastly, though long first, came out the Address of the Bishop and Clergy of the Diocess of St. Davids: (that is, of the new made Bishop, for it seems the Dy­ing Bishop was not for it) Now all these Church-men wrote after one Copy, which was from Durham. There was also an Address of certain pretended Church-men of the City of London; but it was only a name of what was not, by some certain pretenders. And indeed all the five Episcopal Addressers, though true Bishops, yet were but pretended Church-men, while they became perfect Pillars of Popery.

Lastly, after all the rest had begun, the sixth and last, and main Pillar of Popery presented it self, The Hum­ble Address of His Majesties Roman Catholick Subjects, which appeared May the 28th. Now, whatever the rest were, these were certainly in earnest in all their acknowledg­ments, applauses, promises and good wishes. But what is most remarkable in their Address is, that they say, [That they can do no less than thank God and His Majesty, for such an happy Expedient as His Declaration for Liberty of Con­science, for the ease and comfort of all His loving Subjects.] Now, it is against the profest Principles of the Roman-Catholick Religion to allow Liberty of Conscience in matters of Haeresie and Schism, as they do esteem all Presbyterians and Anabaptists, Quakers and Independents to be such. And in truth it is no wonder, that they who count it a Prin­ciple of their Religion to Aequivocate, or in plain terms to Lie for advantage, can admit it into their practice to comply with the worst of Hereticks in order to carry on their Design, in breaking down the good Laws which are the sence of the Church of England. And this they may as aptly consent to do, as practically to dissemble themselves to be Quakers among the Quakers, and Ana­baptists among the Anabaptists, in order to increase Schism [Page 28]and Heresie in a strange Church, that they may with the more safety establish that great Schisme of their own, Popery. And thus we find the Roman-Catholicks, the Ana­baptists, the Presbyterians, Quakers; Independents, and Popishly inclined Church-men, all link'd together in as fast a Bond of Friendship, as faith and truth by Vows and Promises can tye them together, in furthering the Declaration and Design of Establishing Liberty of Conscience upon the Basis of Heresie and Schism; and finally to introduce Popery.

Now after this Foundation laid, wherever any of these Six sorts of Papish Pillar-men got in to be a Mayor of a Corporation, thence immediately followed an Address from that Corporation, to the same effect as each Sect had afore Addressed. But hitherto His Majesty had trans­gressed no Laws, excepting that he had admitted Popish Officers into the Army, and into other Places of Trust, for which He pleaded Necessity. However the Parliament then in force, not approving thereof, was Dissolved af­ter two Adjournments, and ten Prorogations in effectual, was finally Dissolved July 2d. 1687. Notwithstanding Necessity had no Law; that putting in of Popish Officers in all Places of Trust was to be born with. On Febru­ary 12th. 1686, the Earl of Clarendon being Removed, the Earl of Tyrconnel was settled Lord Lieutenant of Ire­land. And on March 11th. Henry Lord Arundel of Wardour a Papist, was made Lord Privy Seal. About the same time, or before, the Earl of Rochester, Uncle to the King's two Daughters, for standing firm to the Protestant Reli­gion according to the Church of England, was removed out of Place from being Lord Treasurer, and the Place put into Commissioners hands Popishly inclined: And the Earl of Sunderland a Papist, was made Lord President of the Council. On February 8th. the Lord Castlemain, His Majesties Ambassador to the Pope, had Audience. But after the Addresses once began to come in thick, then the King ventur'd to receive a Publick Ambassador from the Pope, with all the Honours and Ceremonies usually observed on the like Occasion: This was done at Windsor, on July [Page 29]5th. 1687. And on November 11th. Father Petre the King's Confessor and Clerk of the Closet, was Sworn of His Majesties Privy-Council, and took his Place at the Board. And on November 17th. was published a Book called, An Agreement between the Church of England and Church of Rome, Evinced from the Concertation of some of her Sons, with their Brethren the Dissenters. Such was the Fruit of the Addresses made by the Sir Pillars of Pope­ry. On December 11th. His Majesty being encouraged by the abundance of Addresses, began to view the List of His Justices of the Peace in all the Counties, and of the Deputy Lieutenants, and to turn out of Place all such as would not be for His Declaration of Liberty of Conscience, and for taking off the Penal Laws and Test. Whence great numbers in all Counties were turned out, and Pha­naticks, Papists, and popishly inclined Persons, came into Place. And about the same time, or soon after, all Cor­porations were Regulated by absolute Power, and all Men adhering to the Law were turned out, and Phana­ticks, Papists, and popishly inclined Persons were put in place. And hence it came to pass that all the Corporations in London became Regulated, and filled with Hereticks and Schismaticks; whence followed infinite Addresses from all these New Corporations, and from all the New Model'd Companies. After this it was that the Ecclesiastical Com­missioners had been put in power, and had begun to exe­cute great power of Oppression over many of His Maje­sties Consciencious Subjects. The Right Reverend Fa­ther in God, the Lord Bishop of London, beloved of most Men for his Fatherly care of the Church, against all Law and Reason had been Suspended. And on December 10th. The President and Fellows of Magdalen Colledge in Oxford, against all Law and Conscience were decreed and pronounced uncapable of being admitted into any Ecclesiastical Dignity. These by force appointed by the Commissioners, contrary to all Rules of Law, had been turned out of their Free­holds on the 30th. of November before. On January the 23d. was published [The King's right of Indulgence in Spi­ritual [Page 30]Matters, with the Equity thereof Asserted. By a Per­son of Honour.] About this time Commissioners were ap­pointed, and made Enquiry after all Monies received for Fines, in the case of Seditious Meetings called Conventicles. March the 1st. was published a Book called, [The Legality of the Court held by His Majesties Commissioners Defended: And also A Defence of the Doctrine and holy Rites of the Roman Catholick Church. Against Dr. Burnet's Mystery of Iniquity Unveiled.] Unto such an height of Popery was the Kingdom ascended, and all by means of the Sir Pillars of Addressers; for alas, the Popish Interest of it self was pitifully inconsiderable: But by the union and conjunction of these Sir Pillars, it began to look for­midably. And the King presuming upon the strength of the Pillars, was meerly drawn in and encouraged, beyond all His hope at His Coronation, when he first promised, and then Swore, to defend and maintain the Laws of the Land. Whence it may be safely maintain­ed, that wherein soever His Majesty hath acted against Law, as is now generally alledged, contrary to his Oaths and Promises, although the Breach was really His own proper act, yet the greatest blame thereof, lyes at their Doors, who by pleading Conscience to do the greatest Wickedness, drew him in to comply with them; and by promising to stand by and assist hiw to the last Breath, encouraged him to do what otherwise in all likelyhood He never had intended. For when it was declared by His Majesty on April the 27th. 1688, what was His Ma­jesties further will and pleasure concerning His Declaration of Indulgence, He said expresly. [We are encouraged by mul­titudes of Addresses, and by many other Assuances we receive from Our Subjects of all Perswasions, as Testimonies of their Sa­tisfaction and Duty, to see it preserved without Distinction.] And in the same Declaration he further saith, [In pursuance of this we have been forced to make many Changet both of Civil and Military Officers throughout our Dominions, &c.] Whence it fully appears, that what by means of the Addresses and by means of private Assurances from the Parties Address­ing [Page 31]before the Addresses came forth, His Majesty was un­happily drawn in to do all those things which are counted ill, ever since his Reign. For as may be well observed, many Addresses do boast of a Confederacy with His Ma­jesty, as to the substance matter of their Addresses, from before the time of His Majesties coming to the Crown.

Hence followed the Orders issued forth, directed unto the Arch bishops, Bishops, and the Clergy, to read the King's Declaration in all their Provinces, Dioecesses and Churches therein. Which thing they humbly conceiving to be a matter against the known Laws of the Land, and not fit to be done, so many of them as were then in London, did humbly Petition His Majesty to be excused from such reading, and shewed their Reasons in their Petition. But this Petition being judged Scandalous, the Arch-bishop, and Bishops of St. Asaph, Ely, Chichester, Bath and Wells, Peterborough, and Bristol, were Summoned before the Lords of the Council, and after Appearance, were commit­ted to the Tower, June 8th. but Bailed out, came to their Tryal, and were Acquitted unto the great joy of the People, though to the great Grief of all Addressers. During these times were strict enquiries made after all Ministers who refused to read the King's Declaration in their Churches, by the Lords Commissioners for Ecclesi­astical Affairs; but the Chancellors in most parts delay­ing the Returns, farther time was given. But e'er the day appointed came no, a new face of Affairs happen'd. About these times also came in new Addresses thick and three-fold, congratulating for the Birth of the Prince of Wales. But in these Addresses the several Pillars of Popery appeared not distinctly as before: But in all Corporations, Grand Juries, and meetings of Justices, which at that time were fo far Purged, as most of them were either Papists, or Popishly inclined; or Anabaptists, Presby­terians, Quakers, or Independents. All which promoting the Design. Addresses innumerable ceased not, until the King himself Addressed beyond Sea. But at length news arrived of His Highness the Prince of Orange preparing as [Page 32]if he would Invade England; whence King James be­ing immediately smitten with a sudden astonishment, sent for His Pillars about him; the Presbyterian Ministers, the Independents, the Anabaptists, the Quakers, the Roman-Catholicks, and the Popishly inclined; who all protested, that they believed the Prince of Wales to be undoubtedly his Son: And one Dr. Bates being Spokesman for the Presbyterians, spake with great confidence how much they were bound to believe His word; and so said they all, and promised to assist him to the utmost. Also many or most of those Ministers, Presbyterian or Independent, who had fled into Holland for shelter, because of the Duke of Monmouth's or the Earl of Argyle's Insurrections, where­in they had been concerned, had returned home, and laid themselves at the King's Foot, and were admitted to kiss his Hand, and were esteemed White Boys: Some also of the Gentlemen returned and became great Stick­lers of King James, but the preparations from Holland damp'd all. For King James Drooping in Spirit, all His Pillars could not keep up His Heart. For on the last or September the Bishop of London was restored to his Dioecess. On October the 2d. came forth the general Par­don, and the Charter was restored to the City. On the 5th. the Ecclesiastical Commission was Dissolved. And on the 12th. the Bishop of Winchester had a Commission to restore the Rights of Magdalen Colledge Oxford, Whence followed the restitution and Fellows. On the 17th. all Rights were restored to the Corporations. Hence all the Pillars of Popery beginning to reel and totter, on No­vember the 5th His Highness the Prince of Orange Landed. But after some face of Resistance for some time appear­ing at Salisbury, on November the 26th. His Majesty re­turned to London, from Salisbury. The 11th. of Decem­ber he privately withdrew from White-hall. On the 12th. the Lord Chancellor was Taken and carried to the Tower. On December the 16th. King James returned to White-hall, and on the next Morning went quite off. [Page 33]And His Highness the Prince of Orange came to St. James's. And thus fell flat all the Sir Pillars of Popery.

May it please God that Truth may flourish, and that Popery appear no more. But God's Will be done.

Let all good Men do their Duty; and then Blessed shall be the Dead who Die in the Lord, and their Works shall follow them.