The Case of The Accommodation Proposed by the Bishop of Dunblane, Section · Part (2 of 3)

The Case of The Accommodation Proposed by the Bishop of Dunblane · Section · Part (2 of 3)

p. 35But in the next place comes the Authors kindnesse and charitie to relieve such, who labour under an apprehended inconsistencie of these their Oaths with this fixed Presidencie, & in prosecution hereof, he sayeth, That if men would have the patience to inquire, this our Episcopacie will be found not to be the same with that abjured; for, that is the government of Bishops absolutly by themselves and their Delegates, Chancellours, Archdeacons, &c. As it is expressed in the Article, & was on purpose expressed …o difference that frame from other forms of Episcopacie, & particularly from that which is exercised by Bishops joyntly with Presbyters in Presbyteries and Synods, which is now used in this Church. And here I might again take notice of the grossness of this mistake, supposing our present Church-government, because forsooth it is not exercised by Chancellours, Archdeacons and the rest expressed in the second Article of the Covenant; therefore not to be that which was abjured, but a distinct from managed by Bishops joyntly with Presbyters… whereas it is evident as the Sun-light, that our Parliament did not only in preparation to the late change make void the obligation of our Covenants, and all the Acts and Authority of former Parliaments, whereby Episcopacie had been abrogate: But also restore and redintegrat the estate of Bishops, to a more full injoyment of Church - power and prerogatives then formerly was granted unto them, yea unto the sole possession and exercise thereof under his Majesty, above all that their Predecessors did ever acclaim: As both from the Act of Restitution, and the consequent practices of our Bishops I have already plainly evinced; that so it is beyond all controversie, that the same Episcopacy abjured, what ever it was, was by our late Parliament again restored.

But Secondly admi…ting, that our present frame were in esse p. 36such as it is represented, or at least by the proposal of Accommodation offered: As the mistake or rather wilfull error of this passage, doth borrow its colour and pre…ext from the second Article of the Covenant, obliging us to the extirpation of Poperie and Prelacie, that is to say, &c. according to the description there set down; so, the thing obvious to be observed for clearing thereof is that in order to our case in Scotland it is not the obligation of this second Article to extirpate, that we are principally and in the first place to regard; but it is the positive ingagement of the first, binding, as to Scotland, to preserve, and, as to England and Ireland, to reforme, that is in a manner the key of the whole, in as much as by the Church of Scotland, and to endeavour the se…lement of the Church of England, the second Article is manifestly subjoined by way of execution, viz. that for attaining the ends of the first we should endeavour the extirpation of all things therein, either generally or specially enumerat, which two Articles, the one to preserve the then constitution of our Church, with so great contendings lately reformed from this corruption, amongst others, of the Bishops their constant Moderatiship, and the othe…, to extirpate every thing found to be contrary to sound doctrine, and the Power of Godlinesse, as Episcopacy in all its degrees had been by our Church declared to be, doth certainly make up an obligation most directly opposite to, and inconsistent with this Presidencie re-obtruded.

Thirdly, If thir luk-warm Conciliators were as mindful to pay their vows to the most High, as they are bold to devour that which is holy, and after vows to make inquiry, in place of this impertinent wresting and misapplication of these obligements in the League and Covenant, which do more properly concerne the at-that-time-unsetled Estate of England and Ireland, then the established condition of the Church of Scotland, as we shall immediatly hear, they would rather consider their own and our obligations by the National Covenant, and how in that day of our distresse, and wrestlings from under the yoke of Prelacie, we swore unto the Lord to defend that Reformation whereunto we attained; and p. 37constantly to reject and labour against all these Novations and corruptions, from which we were then delivered: Under which Head of Novations and Corruptions, I am assured that every considerat person will so easily perceive this Presidencie and Moderatorship o… Bishops to have been abjured, that he will almost as much wonder at the heedlesse expositions of our Adversaries, put upon these Covenants, as pity the sin of their perjurious declaring against them. It is therefore certain, that as, since the Reformation, we had not in Scotland that species of Prelacie particularly described in the second Article of the Solemn League, but the same was therein insert, mainly in order to our neighbour Churches; so the Episcopal Government, at this day restored in Scotland, is the same, and worse then what we had before, and the Presidencie now proposed was one of these very corruptions against which we are bound for ever to preserve this Church at that time therefra reformed.

But the Author sayes, That the Presbyterians in England do generally take notice of this distinction, viz. That by the Covenant the Prelacy only therein described, and not moderat Episcopacie, that is, a form of Synodical Government conjunst with a fixed Presidencie is abjured. And for proving this assertion, he cites the two Papers of proposalls to his Majesty by the Presbyterian Brethen, Anno 1661. Master Baxter in his treatise of Church-government, and Theophilus Thimorcus, in his vindication of the Covenant not to be against all manner of Episcopacy, but that Prelacie only therein specified. It is answered; to measure our main obligation by the Covenant, in order to the Church of Sco…land by that part of it which was principally intended for the Churches of England and Ireland, is so grosse and dull an inadvertencie, that, I am sure, nothing, lesse then a judicial delusion could have made a man of the Authors knowledge and sobriety to lapse into it. Nay, seing that he himself doth note, that when that Covenant was framed, there was no Episcopacie at all in being in Scotland but in England only. Is it not a wonder, that thence concluding that the extirpation of that frame only could then be p. 38meant & intended, his logick should so pitifully fail him as not to adde, and from that Church alone where it was seated, which would have so clearly restricted the subject of that Article, that I am certain… at on glance, he had discovered all his applications of it unto Scotland as its primarie object to be impertinent. But where there hath appeared no conscience in keeping; why do we expect much sense in interpreting? And we all know, what kinde of person it is of whom Solomon saith, that his eyes are in the ends of the earth. To bring him back therefore to the purpose, it is the obligation of the Church of Scotland & Members thereof in order to its self, anent which we do now inquire, & for clearing thereof it is granted, that by the Solemn League the Church of Scotland being then established, the preservation of that establishment, with the duty of extirpation in so far as is necessary thereunto, is only covenanted, which, though it do sufficiently exclude this fixed Presidencie, as contrary to that establishment, and also unto sound doctrine & the power of godlinesse; yet it is by the National Covenant & its subjoined explication whereby not only the Episcopal Government which then was amongst us, & is now restored & advanced, but the Bishops their constant Moderatorship, as a novation and corruption in this Church, is plainly abjured. By all which it is evident, that as the League and Covenant, being referred to the National, by which the establishment in the former sworne to be preserved was first setled, doth mani…estly exclude this Episcopus Praeses; so the obligement in the League to extirpat the Prelacie therein described, only applicable to the Churches where it then was, is most improperly made use of for explaining our ingagement in order to our selves in the case controverted,

Now as to the citations of the English Authors adduced, it is certain as to the present question we are not therein much concerned; they speak of the obligation of the Covenant in order to England, and how that Article of extirpation for that Church principally provided is to be understood, the thing that pertaineth to us is to consider, how far, either by the League and Covenant or any other ingagement lying upon us, we are bound against all p. 39corruptions to the preservation of the setlement we then enjoyed, which are subjects quite distinct; and thereby this heap of citations gathered by the Author is by one blast dissipated. But lest it may appear hard that we should be bound to such a precise form in Scotland, and England in that same Covenant left to such a latitude, it is answered, not to reflect upon what might have been the secret designs of some unsound men in this matter which we neither were bound nor could distinctly know, this one thing is evident, that for us in Scotland, who could not expect that England, groaning to be delivered from Prelacie, should instantly upon our grant of assistance embrace Presbytery in all its forms, of which they had not full and exact knowledge and no experience; and withall, seing we did hold Presbyterian government to be according to the word of God, and knew the common estimation then made in England of the C…urches of Scotland, Geneva, the Netherlands, and France as the best reformed; the obligation provided in the Covenant to endeavour Englands reformation according to the word of God and the example of the best reformed Churches, with the Article of extirpation subjoined in its full extent, was certainly at that time all the assurance we could desire, and upon which we did very rationally relye…

Neither is the same in the least impugned by that which is alledged out of the Authors cited; viz. That many grave men of the Assembly of Divines desired that the word Prelacie might be explained, because it was not all Episcopacy they were against; and therefore the particular des…iption was subjoined: as also some members of Parliament scrupling the meaning of Prelacy, it was resolved with the consent of the Br… thren in …cotland, that the Oath was only intended against Prelacy, as then in being in England? And Mr Coleman administrating it unto the house of Lords di… so explaine it: Because as it was indeed very consistent, that in so far as England had then attained, we should …ave closed with them in a particular Oath for extirpating the evil discovered: And yet for a further advance rest upon the more general obligements, so surely and safely cautioned, until God should give further light; so the common acknowledgment p. 40of both parties, that the then Prelacie was only expresly abjured, and not all Episcopacie, seeing no species of Episcopacie was on the other hand either by them reserved, or by us consented to, doth nothing contradict why both the rejecting of all Episcopacie, & setting up of Presbytery might not still be covenanted unto under the general provisions: And therefore, seeing it is very agreeable both to Truth and Righteousnesse, that a Church convinced of evils, but not so enlightned as to the remedies; may covenante against the evils in particular, and also to endeavour a full reformation according to the word of God; and, by vertue of this general obligement, become bound to make a more exact search, anent the lawfulnesse or unlawfulnesse of things, anent which in the time of the covenanting they were more hesitant, and after discoverie to reject even that which formerly they thought more probable, It is very evident that all the doubting in England anent moderat Episcopacy, at the time of these ingagements, do nothing impede, why both they and we, in our respective stations, are not still obliged to reform that Church from all Episcopacie, and to extirpate it as contrary to the Doctrine, which is according to godlinesse. So that Englands latitude, as to this point, is rather apparent then real, and our obligations in order to both Kindomes are in effect objectivè the same. I grant the Authors cited do understand the thing otherwise: but not to tell yow that the proposals mentioned were neither made nor approven by all, nor belike by the soundest Presbyterians in England; that Mr Baxter is not singular in this only subject, and that Timorcus who hath done very well in his main subject, might have done better in this particular: one thing I am confident to affirme, that the ground which all of them lay down, viz. that all manner of Episcopacy was not by the Covenant particularly abjured, is most fallacious, in asmuch as, if it may be demonstrat from the word of God and experience, that all manner of Episcopacy is repugnant thereto and to the power of godlinesse, (as I am sure it may, and it hath been by me essayed) its non-abjuration in special doth nothing militat against the import of the other general Article.

p. 41As for the other grounds contained in the Author's citations, viz. the agreeablenesse of this presidencie to the scripture & primitive times, and the custome of our Kirk-sessions; they are already answered: & what Mr Baxter addeth anent the Superintendents & Visitors, which we had in Scotland in the begining of the reformation, it is as easily removed by the then infancy of our Church, and extreme penurie of Pastors, as his other argument from the temporary moderators, chosen by Synods for the occasion and to them accountable, is concludent as to the fixed presidents now under question.

To these Authorities the Author subjoines that, Though we have the names of Dean, Chapter and Commissarie, yet that none of these under that name exerce any part of the discipline, nor is this done by any other having delegation from the Bishops with a total exclusion of the communitie of Presbyters, which is a great part of the difference betwixt that model of Prelacie to be extirpat and this with us. Who would not pity such folly? who knows not that Englands Prelacie was ever different from any Episcopacie that we had in this Church since the Reformation, (although by the way I must reminde my Reader how much by the late restitution it is advanced) but if by the particular obligation to extirpate, contained in the second Article of the League, we be only bound to extirpat Englands Prelacie, doth it therefore follow, that notwitstanding of the obligement to preserve Presbyterie then setled in Scotland, and in general to extirpate every thing contrary to sound Doctrine and the Power of Godlinesse, and especially by vertue of the abjuration, made by us of our former Episcopacy in the National Covenant, that yet we are not bound to dissent from & oppose the late restitution, whereby Presbyterian Govern. being overturned, the same, yea a worse bond of Episcopacie then what we abjured, is restored. Really these insinuations are so raw, that I am ashamed to medle with them; & yet the Authors fancie (which all that know him, know to be in him a very over…ruling faculty) being once lesed with this mistake anent the Article for extirpation, he goes on and tells us, that he will not deny, that the generalitie of the people, yea even of Ministers in p. 42Scotland, might have understood that Article as against all Episcopacy. But if he will credit truth, he may be better informed, viz. that though the generalitie might very well, by the whole complexed tenor of that Article, understand all Episcopacie to be sworne against, yet it is most certain, that they still understood their principal binding ingagement against it to flow from their abjuration in the year 1638. And their oath, in both the National, and League and Covenant, to preserve and adhere to Presbyterian paritie then estabished: and therefore the new discovery here Pretended, as if the Covenant did admit in our Church a moderat Episcopacie, notwithstanding our obligement to extirpate prelacy, with all the ridiculous …atle ensuing, concerning the genuine consistencie of the words of the Article for extirpation, with such a qualified and distinctive sense, and also the meaning of many of the composers and imposers, for a moderate …piscopacy different from that Prelacie, is but the continuance of the same delusion.

But now I hope to awaken this Dreamer, who addes, That unlesse we make it appeare… that the Episcopacie now in question with us in Scotland is either contrary to the word, or to the mi…igated sense of their own Oath, it would seem more suitable to Chris…ian cha…itie to yeeld to it, as tollerable at least, then to continue so inflexibly fast to their fi…st mistakes, &c. And with …his I heartily close: and therefore seing (not to repeate in this place w…at I have already proved, viz, that the Episcopacy now among us is not so much as Christs, or true Ecclesiastick-government… but meerly his Majesties usurpation over the hou…e of God, which all men ought to abhorre) I say, tha… seing I have in some measure proven, that the Episcopacy in debate is contrary to the word, and (Whatever may be the impertinent mitigation offered of the Article to exti…pat no wayes proper to our purpose) that yet it is diametrally opposit to the …ational Covenant, and our abjuration t…erein contained, and …he first Article of the League, as above declared; I hope our Adversaries will cease to accuse us of want of charity & of inflexibilitie, but rat…er yeeld themselves to the conviction of the truth, p. 43specially to the obligation of our National Covenant, which our Author hath hitherto very fatally and foolishly forgotten: and thus I suppose the Bishop, receiving better information of our grounds, will at least cease from his presumptuous confidence, untill …e find out for us a more colourable solution.

As to what is added in the Papers of the aversion of some in England against the Covenant, as being against all Episcopacy, it is evidently a strain of the former ravery; and therefore, mis-regarding both the objection and solution, I come to the next passage, wherein the Author, casting off all fear of God, reverence to the most learned and pious Assemblies that ever sat in Britain, respect due to as wise and honourable Parliaments as ever these Nations beheld, the good opinion and charity he ought to have for men and Christians truly such, and regard to his own credit, being once far engaged in these wayes, proceeds without the least verification to give a character of the Covenant and its courses, made up of such reproaches of simplicity or cheatry against all ingaged in it, perplexity and vexation of all that faithfully adhere to it, and insolent mocking at the overthrow of Gods work and desolation of His Sanctuary, that malice it self could have uttered nothing more false and virulent. The truth is (saith he) that besides many other evils, the iniquity and unhappinesse of such Oaths and Covenants lyes much in this, that being commonly formed by persons, that even amongst th…mselves are not fully of one minde, but have their different opinions and interests to serve, (and it was so even in this) they are commonly patched up of so many several Articles and Clauses, and these of so versatile and ambiguous termes, that they prove most wretched snares and thickets of briars and thorns to the Consciences of these that are ingadged in them, and matter of endl…sse contentions about their true s…nse, &c. Especially in some such alterations, as alwayes may, and often do, even within a few years, follow after them; for the mo…els and productions of such devices are not usually long-lived

Thus he, And for justifying the censure which seriousl… I have without prejudice premised; I first inquire, why is there here such an insinuation prefaced of many other evils, whereof p. 44there is not one enumerat? Must we believe the Covenant to eb worse then can be expressed, because the Accuser can prove nothing? And why is this accusation pretended to be in general of all such Covenants, when yet it is expressely intended against the League and Covenant? Is it because the Author would have us to reckon it amongst the worst of combinations? Or because he hath the same regard and faith for all Covenants, or at least t…at by such a general he may the better cover the pointednesse of his calumnie only levelled at this.

But taking all to be spoken of our Covenant, it is said, that it was framed by Persons amongst themselves not fully of one minde, but serving their different opinions and interests. But, 1. Whatever might have been the unsincerity and byasse of a few Persons, as there is nothing perfect; yet that the Bodies of both the Parliaments, Assemblies, and People of these Nations, were acted in the matter of this League with such unanimity, straightnesse and zeal for Religion and Liberty, as can not readily be instanced in any Age or Nation, and could only be the effect of a Divine presence and assistance, is unto this day no lesse the comfort of its faithful Adherers, then the confusion of all its Adversaries. 2. As the matter it felf was thus carried, so I can appeal to the remembrances of thousands, that the taking & renewing of our Covenants, both in this & our neighbour Land was attended with more sincere mournings, serious repentances, and solid conversions, then almost …ath been in any dispensation of the Gospel since the da…es of the Apostles. 3. Admitting that the Persons and motives influencing this Covenant had been such as is represented, yet, I am perswaded that, such is the truth, righteousnesse, plainnesse, and consistencie of all its Articles, that considering their brevity, the mighty parties ingaging, and how circumstantiat, with their universal and most important concerne, that which is offered to make its reproach, is the most visible Argument of the Lords over-ruling Providence, and evidence of the Covenants glory.

But it is further alledged, That it is patched up of so many several Articles and clauses, and these too of so versatile and ambiguous termes, p. 45that it proves a most wretched snare. Certainly, in fair, yea in charitable, dealing, if the Author had intended either the information of the ignorant, or the conviction of the obstinat, or had but tendered his own repute, so broad and foul a challenge should at least have been qualified by a condescendence. It were easie for me to oppose one general to another; nor do I fear any losse from the inequalitie of our credit. But I am so perswaded, both from Conscience, Reason, and the common sense of all impartial men, of the falshood of this calumnie, that I am angrie that, by this disappointment, he should robe me and our cause of so probable an advantage. I shall not resume the quiblings of the Oxfoord Doctors and others: I freely refer my Reader both to their writings and the answers they have received, yea to the Covenant it self for the best solution. If I may here guesse at the Authors meaning by such circumstances as occurre, the versatile ambiguitie, he would objecte, is mostly in the certainty of the obligation of Reformation in order to England, (For as to the variety and generalitie of the many Articles and clauses that he mentions, within a little, we shall finde him more particular) and as to this uncertainty, I have so fully evinced the lawfulnesse of the League in the matter of the extirpation Covenanted, wherein both parties did clearly agree, and the warrantablenesse of t…e general clause of Reformation being referred to such a certain Rule as the Word of God, and conformable example, that I am confident (whatever might be mens fraud or failing in the prosecution yet) the Covenant in this part cannot be accused either of uncertainty or ambiguity, without wounding thorow its sides the Scriptures of Truth with the same Darts.

In the next place he tells us, That by reason of this variety and ambiguity, the Covenant becomes a most wretched snare, a thicket o… briars and thorns to Consciences, and a matter of endless… contention, &c. Good Sir, why so severe? Sure, whatever ground of complaint others may have in this regard… yow, who have found a way through these briars and thorns, and are come out of this thicket with your coat rougher then at your entrie, have none at p. 46all: And, no doubt, had all ingaged in this Covenant been of a Conscience such as yours, it had been easie for them, by its serpentine subtiltie, and irreligious indifferencie, to have extricat themselves from greater difficulties. But the truth is, the Author hath wickedly broken the Covenant, and to disguise it, he would have the world believe, that all who remain faithful are caught in the briars, and detained against their wills. I shall not ask what these snares… thickets and contentions are, whereof he accuseth this ingagement: It is below his dignitie to be so put to it. We know that many… part openly part more covertly, have dealt very treacherously in this matter; & if thereafter, to palliat their perjury, they have moved debates anent it, is the Covenant therewith to be charged? One thing only I must say, that as many of these disputs have taken their various pretensions not from the Covenant it self, but from the word of God to which it referres, and which I wish the Author do not account liable to the same exceptions; so, of all the objections moved by such, who, in the succeeding alterations of Providence, have thereby endeavoured to excuse their unstedfastnesse, the Author, of all the greatest changeling, hath here given the poorest and meanest account, scarce sufficient to give a colour to his reproach: and this leads me to notice the great pretense of this complaint, viz, that in the revolutions we have seen the Covenant hath proven so uneasie. I shall not say that, in this, the very Scriptures of Truth may also be construed an hundered fold more uneasie: But of this I am most assured, that he, who, for himself and others, pleads for a compliant liberty for all these so contrary changes that are gone over us, must not only slack the bonds of the Covenant and the Command of God; but of all honesty and ingenuity among men: It remains therefore, that he that would be faithful, aswel as he that would live godly, must resolve to suffer persecution; the contradiction of sinners, and the crosse of Christ have alwayes been the great offence of a foolish world: but who, through uprightnesse and patience for this trouble, do attain unto the promised peace shall never be moved.

p. 47As for the Authors observe, that the models & productions of such devices are not usually long-lived; we judge not by such appearances: our establishment is, that God liveth and reigneth, & our Lord is risen again & alive for evermore This was the primitive consolation: and who knoweth but he may also make this triumphing, as he hath made many the like… to be but for a moment.

But now, when my Author hath run his first carreer against the League and Covenant, poor man, what is all this to Scotlands principal obligation against all manner of Episcopacie, viz. the bond of the National Covenant, entered into with so great unanimity, explained in such evident and certain termes, confirmed both by treaties and pacifications… and at last by the full authority both of King, Parliament and General Assembly? Certainly this is that which never entered into his thought, his indignation against the League doth so transport him, that there is nothing else which he seemeth to regard: and therefore he goes on, and first he insinuats an excuse for some who he sayes, in yeeldance to the power that pressed it, and in conformity to the general opinion of this Church, did take the… Covenant in the most moderat and least schismatick sense; sure, this is so suited to the Authors mistakes, that it must only be his own apologie; his head still runs upon the Article for extirpation. And no doubt his sense thereof, aswel for Popery as Prelacie, is as moderate and little schismatick as may be; sor all know him to be large as catholick (in the common exception) as Christian. But as for the obligement to preserve the Reformed Religion of the Church of Scotland, which this debate mainly respects, I believe he is the first that ever thought it capable of two senses, let be to make choise of the more moderat.

But next, he sayes, he cannot clear them of a great sin, that not only framed such an ingine, but violently imposed it upon all ranks of men, not Ministers and other publick persons only, but the whole body and communitie o… the people, th…reby ingaging such droves of poor ignorant persons to they know not what, and, to speak freely to such a hodge podge of various concernments, religious and …i…ill, as Church discipline and Government, p. 48the privileges of Parliament, the liberties of the Subject, and condigne punishment of Malignants; things hard enough for the wisest and learnedest to draw the just lines of: and therefore certainly, as far from the reach of poor conntrey peoples understanding, as from the true interest of their souls, and yet to tye them, by a religious and sacred Oath, either to know all these, or to con…end for them blindfold without knowing them, Can there be instanced a grea…er oppression and tyrannie over consciences then this? Thus he. A weighty accusation indeed if well founded. But though the simple reflection who the framers of the Covenant were, viz. the greatest, wisest, and most Religious Courts of the two Nations, not led by the nose by a Prelatick influence, which their sottish Clergie may not contradict; but using all liberty both of reason and suffrage, may make every one so advertent as to discover the absurdity of this exception: Yet, because it appears to be the Authors last reserve, I shall review it particularly; and, not to stand upon the deceitful phrase of framing ingines which he useth, his first challenge is, that the Covenant was violently imposed upon all ranks, not only Ministers and publick Persons, but upon the whole body and communitie of …he Land. Cer…ainly to take thir words according to their obvious import, a man would think, it was by a few violent and monstruous Tyrants, who, rising up and prevailing against these Nations, did cudgel all ranks in them to the taking of this Covenant, whereas the known truth, that not only the Nations did by …heir representatives unanimously, but by themselves, for the far greater part, cheerfully ingage therein, doth render the calumny very palpable. 'Tis true there were a few that did refuse it, but supposing …his to have been their single deserving (as for the most part it was not) yet their suffering was so just and notwithstanding moderat, and their number so small as I have above observed, that it cannot give any countenance to the exception.

The next thing objected is, that droves of ignorant persons were ingaged to they knew not what; and, to speak freely, to such a hodge podge of various concernements religious and civil, &c: who would forbear a …ree and round reply to such a confident assertion? He cometh for…h in a simulat pitie of poor ignorants, and a great resentment p. 49of their being by others abused, and yet I am bold to affirm, that he himself bewrayes as crasse ignorance, in this passage, as is to be found in any among the droves he mentions, and (according to the same proportion) an imposing upon the beliefe of others superlatively presumptuous: And for proving of this, I only ask him, is not every soul bound by the Law of God to maintain his King, his Countrey, and his Neighbours rights, prerogatives, and privileges? Who can deny it? But is he therefore bound to know them all, or to contend for them? Who seeth not the ridiculous vanity, if not blasphemy, of such an emptie dilemma. To be clear therefore and distinct in this matter; to the conviction of the very stiffest Opponent, I say.

1. That an oath, binding simply to particulars of meer fact, doth no doubt require, to the effect it may be sworne in Truth, Righteousnesse, and Iudgement, that the taker both know the things sworne to, and be perswaded that they are true and righteous: thus he who ingageth by oath to certain specifick privileges agreed unto, is, no doubt, in conscience first obliged to know both their nature and qualitie, else can not satisfie the forementioned command.

2. On the other hand, if an oath do bind not to matters of meer fact, but to a certain duty, either generally or specially expressed, and in such a manner as clearly intimateth the antecedent rule, whereby it is determined, then this Oath being thus safely cautioned, and in effect only an accessory ingagement, exciting and intending former obligations, but no wayes extending them beyond their limits, the very notion of the duty in general is sufficient, without any further knowledge, to fit the person to bind his soul by such an Oath: for example, he who knoweth no more then the general notion of righteousnesse may no doubt lawfully sweare to perform all righteousnesse, although for the time he do not so much as know its common astract precepts, let be the particular concret deeds that may thereon depend: And the reason is, because, in effect, such an oath doth, in the first place, p. 50bind to endeavo…r more distinct and full knowledge, and so can not rationally be thought to suppose it.

3. That in oaths assertorie, which are o… a mixed nature, as condescending indeed on cer…ain particulars, but yet only binding to their observance, under the notion, and in the supposition that they are righteous, although because of the condescendence it doth no doubt prerequire knowledge; yet righteousnesse being its determining and regulating object, it alloweth upon a better discoverie, not only a rectification of the same particulars without perjury, but also an extension of the Oath to such things, which, being for the time unknown, do afterward fall within its rule and line: thus, if, upon a particular occasion, I swear to my neighbour to maintain his rights, as it doth indeed bind, in the first place, to the definite defence of these which occasioned the Oath, yet so as to admit of an alteration in any thing that shall be afterward found not to be righteous, and consequently no right; so no doubt, as to all his supervenient rights, though afterward only coming to my knowledge, the same Oath doth very justly extend its obligation.

4. As the foregoing rules do abundantly explain the matter of this Oath, with what measure of knowledge it both supposeth and importeth; so the limitation and restriction, to the ingagers place and calling, doth make it in such sort accessory to the former duties incumbent to him, that, in effect both as to the knowledge and performance whereto it binds, it rather intends then ampliats their predetermined obligation. I might have added, in this place, that every affirmative Oath, whether particular or general, doth undoubtedly, in the first place and most obviously, bind nega…ivè; that is, that the person swearing shall do nothing contrary to, nor obstruct that whereunto he is positively bound. But this is a thing in it self so evident, that though it may be of use in the explication in hand; yet I conceive it sufficient to have observed its omission.

And furder, both for illustration and application, I shall adduce no other examples then the things objected. And first, passing p. 51the mention here made of things religious and civill, which, no doubt, may be very consistently both commanded and ingaged unto together, the swearing of the people to Church - discipline and government is instanced. But if Christ hath in his Church appointed both, and if all Christians be bound to maintain them, as they are thereto called, I am very certain, that to oblige them in their place and calling thereto by oath cannot be disproven. But it may be said, that by the Covenant the people became obliged to a particular species of government, of which, in probability, they could not know all the parts, let be to know their warrant. 'Tis answered, the corruptions of Episcopacie having had such an universally grievous influence upon all ranks, and these, with the opposite true form of Presbytery, having been so expresly and plainly laid open and abjured, in the year. 1637. 16…8. And 1639. as the people ought in duty to have had a competent knowledge in these matters; so it is very assured, that their knowledge therein was abundantly clear and distinct, as the very considerable remains of it to this day do evince.

The second instance is made of the privileges of Parliament, liberties of the subject, and condign punishment of Malignants. But seing the Kings authority, to the defence whereof the Covenant doth also bind', doth undoubtedly include all the righteous prerogatives of the Crown, which ar as far, if not more, removed from the knowledge of the common people, then the other heads mentioned, wherefore were they omitted in the condescendence? Is it not because the duty of allegeance binding unto the same things, and whereunto certainly all may lawfully swear, is in effect, liable to the same exception? 2. Although this Oath, in order to privileges and liberties, be not meerly indefinit, binding to righteous privileges and liberties in general, to which no doubt every on may lawfully swear; but also assertory of such privileges and liberties, as were at that time by the arbitrarie course of adversaries more especially drawn in question; yet were these privileges then not only upon the same occasion generally known, as concerning, in effect, the very being of Parliaments, p. 52and just freedom of men; but in such manner ingaged unto, under the notion of righteous, & what the limitation of the ingagers place and calling, that it is most manifest, that this Article of the Covenant hath both righteousnesse, for its formall & regulating object, and also that it neither supposeth nor obligeth any man to more knowledge, then either de facto he had before, or is obliged to have by the antecedent duty of his particular vocation: So that the import of this part of the Covenant being plainly the same, with that either of our allegeance to the King, or of every citizen to the corporation whereof he is a member, viz, that we all maintain and preserve the prerogatives & rights, which in our station we know or ought to know to be such, and to be righteously such, the absurdity here endeavoured to be fastned upon the Covenant, as tying either to know simply, or to contend blindfold, is but an empty pitiful vanity. 3. As to that of the condign punishment of Malignants, it is aboundantly explicable by the same rule: for the men so termed, having, by their mischief, made themselves but too well known, and we being tyed to the discoverie, only as righteous, & in our place & calling, it is as little possible to taxe this or any other the like obligement in the Covenant of excesse for its generality, as an Oath to performe all righteousnesse, wherein, no doubt, all these things are included, & which, wi…hout question, all men may lawfully make, albeit they are neither bound to know nor perform any other deeds, then such as their place and calling do require of them.

Which grounds adduced, with what might be further her alledged from the mutual Covenants both of men & nations, wherein they lawfully ingage both offensively & defensively to maintain others rights, without so much as the necessity of a particular inquirie thereinto for the time, do, without all peradventure, most convincingly redargue these weak quiblings bo…h of grosse ignorance and calumnie. What shall we then say to t…e folly and bitternesse of these reproaches, w…ereby this Author, upon no better reason then what doth equally militat against all our general obligations either to God or man, is pleased to asperse the Covenant, as an hodge podge of various concernments religious and civil? What? p. 53Can not these thing lye easily enough together in an Oath, which yet are all comprehended in the Law of God? Are the Churches true Government, the righteous privileges of Parliaments and liberties of the Subject, and the duty of endeavouring in our place and calling that evill do…rs may be punished, and the rebels purged out of the Land (upon whom, by the law of God, the hand of all the people is commanded to be) the great concernes both of Religion and Righteousnesse, things either impertinent to any, or in themselves incompatible? Or is it because that our Author hath, by confounding and trampling upon all these things, and betraying at this time the Churches government unto the supremacie, as formerly under the Usurpers, he little regarded either the Subjects liberty… or his Prince his Authority, and is known to have alwayes his pretended charity as contracted towards zealous godly protestants, as dilated unto irreligious papists and prelatists, polluted his own conscience, and rendered it unclean, that therefore even this sacred Oath is become unclean and nauseating unto him; what can he reply to these things? Or can he assigne us a better reason for his assertion.

He sayes, It is hard enough for the wisest and learnedest to draw the just lines of these things, and to give plain definitions of them. But will it therefore follow, that none but such have any concernment in, or obligation to them: No, this were in effect an inference no lesse, nay more absurd, then to alledge that none are bound, or may swear to maintain his Majesties authority, but such as can draw the just lines of all his prerogatives; or rather that none are obliged to defend his person, but such as can draw his picture to the life. It is therefore certain, that, as all men have undoubtedly an interest more or lesse remote in these matters… so they either really have, or ought to have, a knowledge proportionable to their ingagement thereto, to which an Oath for confirmation is most properly accessory.

The Author add's that These things are as far from the reach of poor Country Peoples understan…ing, as from the true interest of their souls. And O how desirable is it, that this, the one thing necessary, were p. 54indeed the speciall and main care of all men; but to offer to confine poor Peoples knowledge and obligations to their souls interest alone, with an aime so palpable to have all other things abandoned to lust and tyranny, according to the great design of these adversaries, against which this Covenant was ingaged in, savours more of hypocrisie then true spirituality: And therefore I say. 1. that the true Discipline and Government of Gods House are in themselves, and have been experimented to be, of such important influence, as to the promoving the great work and ends of the Gospel, the great concern of Gods glory, and wherein no doubt the interest of all souls is involved, that whatever may be in this pretense of abstraction and self- confinement; yet he must needs be of a very Gallio - temper that careth for none of these things. 2. Although privileges and liberties, and the punishment of Malignants have no such direct tendencie; yet I am not only assured that, in the then juncture of affaires, their defence was of notable subservience to the preservation and reformation of Religion principally covenanted; but that of themselves, and as to the main of their import, they are so much within the reach of the sense, let be the knowledge, of the meanest of men, that to take them off from their concernment therein, and ingagement thereto, by the insinuation of their souls true interest, will be judged by all ingenuous persons a very cunning and deceitful impertinencie.

Now from the premises that we have heard, the Author concludes in these terms, So that to ty them viz. the common people) by a religious & sacred Oath, either to know all these, or to contend for them blindfold without knowing them, can there be instanced a greater oppression & tyranny over Conscience then this? &c. But seeing it is most certain, that the Oath doth neither tye to know all these, nor yet to contend for them blindfold; but, being entered into from the universal feeling of all ranks of the invasions made and threatned both against Religion and Libertie, did, according to the nature of all such assertory and accessory Covenants, only bind every on in his place and calling, and sutably to that measure of knowledge, which he either p. 55had, or ought to have, of such general and important concerns to stand to their defence against the common enemie; the ignorance and insolence of this inference doth in deep astonishment only prompt me to say, the Lord rebuke the O Adversarie, The Lord, who hath chosen this poor Church, rebuke thee; Is not the small remnant of the faithful as a brand pluckt out of t…e fire?

But behold how he wipes his mouth; Certainly (sayes he) they who now govern in this Church cannot be charged with any thing near or like unto it. No? All pious, holy, tender souls. But seing I have removed the calumny, the subject of the comparison I will not recriminat; yet we must hear a little of the mens praise, viz. That whatever they require of Intrants, they neither require subscriptions nor Oaths of Ministe…s already entered, far lesse of the whole People. But 1. Seing there can be no solid distinguishing reason given for this practice, we must conclude Policy to be the only motive of this pretended moderation. 2. The Oath, with the Act 1612. prescribed to be taken of Intrants, is so plainly and truely chargeable with a laxe dubious and insnaring generality, that, I am certain, all the light and knowledge, to be found in the most of these who conform to it, will not prevent the Authors being confounded with his own argument. I shall not tell you that therein they sweare to the Supremacy, an infinite mysterie of iniquitie; But the point wherein this Oath is really peccant, in all the foul reproaches, wherewith the Covenant is falsly loaded, is, that thereby they are bound to defend all Iurisdictions, Privileges, Preheminencies, and Authorities granted and belonging to his Highnesse, or united to his Royal Crown: Whereby it is clear that they are not only obl…ged positivè to whatsoever Priviledges and Prerogatives granted and belonging to the King, without the destinction of righteous or unrighteous; but also without any restriction to their place & callings. Now (not to retort the Authours impertinencies, as if this Oath did tye all Intrants either to know all these things, or to contend for them, blindfold without knowing them) whe…her this be lawful & righteous, p. 56& whether the common People be more knowing in their own Liberties and their representatives Privileges, or conforming Ministers in his Majesties sublime prerogatives and extensive Iurisdictions, I leave it to every impartial discerner. But 3. What strange hodge podge indeed do we find in this ingagement! all things spiritual, ecclesiastick, and temporal confounded in the Supremacie, is not enough; but the poor Intrant must further abjure all forreign Powers and …urisdictions, swear to defend all his Majesties Authorities and Privileges, acknowledge upon Oath, that he holds the Church and his possession of it (if of the King's presentation) under God, of his Majestie, doing homage unto the King (and not unto God) for the same (if at the presentation of another) under God, by the King, of the Patron thereof: And lastly swear obedience to his Ordinarie in all lawful things, even his Majesties authority, though just now so fully recognosced, not excepted. Is not this an odde medly to be hudled up in a sacred oath? Whereof whether every Article therein be more impertinent for an Intrant Minister of the Gospel, or in it self more obscure and indistinct, really I can not define?

But the Author goes on and tells us that It were ingenuously done to take some notice of any point of moderation, or any thing else commendable even in our enemies, and not to take any partie in the World for the absolute Standart and unfailing rule of truth and righteousnesse in all things. And so it were indeed; but I freely appeal to all ingenuous men, if ever they heard ingenuitie exhorted to, by two such disingenuous insinuations. As first, to recommend the moderation of a partie, who, after that they themselves had perjuriously broken their Covenant both to God and their Brethren, did in such manner instigat the Powers to rigours, exclusions, and persecutions, against all who in conscience did only refuse to owne and countenance their wicked Apostasy, as had almost ruined a great part of the Kingdom and did at length wearie the very Actors. And next to give out as if we were so implicitly wedded to our partie, whereof the least Argument or vestige hath not been made appeare, no nor is so much as alledged, but p. 57but as al men do sufficiently know these restraints of want of power in the Clergie… and of better considerations in our Rulers, that have produced the apparent quiet, which is here pretended for moderation; so, we hope that, by a full manifestation of the truth and righteousnesse of our way, we have in such sort commended our selves to every mans conscience in the sig…t of God, as there to leave this accuser of the brethren convicted and confounded bo…h …or his open perjury and craft… calumny.

But the Author, as it seems, fearing such a reply… provided a retr…at, concluding But oh! who would not long for the shadows of the evening, and …o b… at rest from all these poor, childish, trifling contest…? I shall not say, that since he walks so much in darknesse, it is little wonder that he longe for shaddes: But of this I am very certain, that if he had laboured as seriously upon his Masters m…ssion, to reconcile souls unto God, as he seemeth to have travelled upon his Majesties commission … to patch up a sinful Accommodation, his hope of rest had been both more sweet and more assured; and, in place of the shadows of …he evening, he might have promised to himselfe the l…ght inaccessible, for his everlasting refreshment. But seing these very poor, childish… trifling contests, whereby he would cuningly decry all the just oppositions of the faithful to his evil course, are in effect his own devices against the …ingdome of our Lord Iesus, the day wherein every man shall receive his own reward, according to his own labour, shall make his work manifest, when the fire shall try it: And I heartily wish that the burning thereof may be all his losse.

After the body of one of these Letters, we have a Postscript that is to say (for all the longings for rest we just now heard of) another whife: As we know who once charac…ered the Lords Servants, when with much travel la…ouring in his work; and herein the Author, complementing wi…h an Apology ot…er Churches (joining Rome with England as is most supposible) wh…rein Episcopal-government is otherwi…e exercised, wishes that …he A…gument ad hominem (as he calls it) by him used, may be brought to the knowledge of such as know least of it, and need it most. And one part p. 58of his wish, I am sure, I have served by a very candid representation; If the event misgive he must blame himself, his design is to allay mens extreme fervor by the consideration that this very form, which to us is hateful, is to English Presbyterians desireable; and that upon inquiry, the Reformed Churches abroad will be found …o be much of the same opinion. But seeing I have already demonstrat our present form, as established and exercised, to be not only meer Prelacy, but the very absurd usurpation of t…e Supremacy; and have also at large excepted against …he fixed Presidency of late proposed, and shewed both what the soundest Presbyterians in England do think, and all of them ought to think anent it; Why doth our Author, by such weak repe…itions, pretend, under the name of ex…reme fervor, to condemn an ave…sion, which alas is in all to remisse? One thing, I shall only adde, that whatever may be the thoughts of Presbyterians in England … yet, sure I am that, their ingagements in order to Scotland are the same with ours; and what these do import is already sufficiently declared. As for the Reformed Ch…rches, I neither decline nor use their testimonies: We are fixed on surer foundations; yet of this I am most perswaded, that as abstracted general questions, are but lame and blind discussions of cases of this nature; so, whereever our case shall be fully and clearly represented, we shall report the assent of all the lovers of our Lord Iesus Ch…ist foreign in incorruptness.

But we are told, that per…aps it were not only lawful, but expedient that these, who now govern in …his Church, should in some ins…ances use a little mo…e authori…ie then they do, provided they applied their power …o advance what is good, and not at all agains… the tru…h, but alwayes for it: And that all things being so far out of course, the present condition of our Church (B… reason of the irreligion and profanitie that are gone forth from its Prophets unto the whole Land) Doth require an extraordinary remedy I wish the Author were as sensible of …he cause, as he seems to be of the symptomes of the malady; but to think that the present Church-governours, in the conviction of all sober observers, the main, if not the only, Authors of this mischief, should be intrusted with the cure; what more hopelesse, p. 59or what more ridiculous? I grant the cautions subjoined. viz, that they applied their power, alwayes for, and not against the truth, if made effectual, would indeed secure the event: But seing they only promise by supposing it, and consequently are equally doubtful with it, and really such as may recommend the most unwarrantable and improper mean that can be devised, it is evident that this empty probability concludeth nothing: Let the Pope, or some thing worse, be set up, in the supposition that he do not apply his power to obstruct, but to advance what is good, and not against, but for the truth, no question there would thence arise a consequential expedience and advan…age: But thence to argue for the lawful…esse of such an appointment, were plainly to ranverse all reason and righteousness. As it is therefore from our Lords own warrant and blessing, that we are principally to attend the successe of his ordinances; so, where these cannot be made appear, as in the case of our present Church-government, and on the other hand, the ensuing of Atheism and profanity cannot be denied, the conclusion, t…at …hey are to be imputed to the nature of the present establishment, is beyond contradiction.

But our Author sayes, That …hese bad fruits ar ra…her to be imputed to the schisme made by withdrawing f…om the Government: For there is not a greater enemie in …he Wo…ld to the Power of Religion, then the wranglings and bitter contentions that are raised about the external forms of it. 'Tis answered, divisions being in themselves alwayes mutual, yea and separation, in some cases, commanded and necessary, to conclude against the thing in common, that which is only peculiar to a particular species, were grossely to confound the commanded out-coming of the People of God from Babylon, with t…e most sinful departing of the worst of Hereticks: It is not the…efore separation or withdrawing, in the abstract, but in its complexe causes, conditions & tendency, that we are to regard: he who, in t…e fear of God, out of a desire to keep himself pure, and for a testimony against evil-doers, withdraweth from such as walk disorderly, & from men of corrupt minds destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godlinesse… doth no lesse obey the will of God, then he p. 60who through proud and bitter contention flowing from some carnal principle and design, breaking the unity of the Spirit and bond of peace doth wickedly contemn our Lord's new commandment of love. Now, whether the present Prelats & their Dependents, who, for perfidious breach of Covenant with God & man, invading… and usurping over Gods House, and ejecting & persecuting their …aithful …rethren, are justly disowned and discountenanced of all good men, or such, who, having no encouragement from either the call, promise, or presence of God, do, in a tender fear not to partake of other mens sins, abstain from the Assemblies of these evil doers, be from the former grounds more to be blamed for the present withdrawing let all men judge. But as it is not possession… attained by falshood and violence, that makes a right, and the injurious expeller, and n…t …he expelled, is, certainly, the sinful and scismatick divider; so, that the strange perfidy… pride, cruelty, avarice & profanity of the Prelats, and their abettors and dependers, professing to be the guids of, yea and having their livelihood and weal…h by Religion, and yet for the most part not studying so much as to vail their lewdnesse with a mask of h…pocrisy, have rendred Religion it self contemptible, except with a few, who stand at a distance with this horrible thing, is undeniable in its own evidence.

As for the enmity of contentions anent external forms to the Power of Religion, if there be really a worth and singular benefite in such forms & ordinances that our Lord hath appointed for subservient means to the great end of the Gospel, and as visible & certain a prejudice and evil influence in mens corrupt novations, all-contendings about these matters cannot be implicity censured as bitter wranglings and enmity to the Power of Religion, without the just accusation of a luke warm indifferency in the high concerns of the Gospel: He who judgeth not the purity and liberty of Gospel ordinances worthy to be contended for… will hardl… perswade a rational man that ever he will strive for the Faith of the Gospel. But 2. We heartily renounce and disown all wranglings and bitter contention, it is by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of his patience, & of our testimony, that we hope to overc…me; if these be accounted contentious, it is but a small share of the Lords sufferings, p. 61compared to these reproaches of rebellion and sedition, wherewith he… and his followers have been slandered. It is rather my regrete, that, in a time of such backsl…ding… we have not moe saying, from the same reason, with Ieremiah, Wo is us men of strife, and men of contention to the whole Earth But the peevish Policy of such, who after that, by perjury, contention and violence, they have imposed and pressed their own forms and inventions, and, by the same practices, seated themselves in the possession of what they designed, do in effect retain the same peremptory rigor, and do only decry contention, that they may mock men from an… just opposition to their courses, doth not merite any further notice: He who calmely, and impartially considers this whole matter wil easily perceive, that it is neither contention, separation, nor division, things in themselves reciprocal… of a middle signification, that are simply to be condemned: But it is from pride, perversnesse, and other evil mixtures and designes, that both their evil and scandal do proceed: And on which side these are to be found… a small reflection may satisfy every inquirer.

But now, after all the vehemence we have heard, the Author… on purpose to amuse where he cannot prevail, Falls a wondering to see wise and good men make so great reckoning of certain metaph…sical exceptions against some li…tle modes and formali…ies of difference in the Government, and se… so lit…le value upon so great a thing as is the peace of the Church … '…is answered, The redargution, implied in the bosome of this exclamation… doth so palpably occurre, that I cannot dissemble the Apos…les obse…vation thereby so obviously suggested, viz. That evil men and seducers waxe worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived; sor while in their deceivings they tell us, that not only our reasonings are bare metaphysical exceptions, but that even the things contended for are meer words and formalities; how do they themselves appear to be deceived, who presse the…e very …ord… & formalities… more then the weightiest affaires in Religion? It being without controversy, that if the argument were equally ballanced, it wou…d begin at home, & by surceassing the pursuit of such vain tris…es, thereby most effectually p. 62frustrat the contrary defences: But the truth is, whatever the appearances are, neither are we, nor the Author, mistaken upon the matter: A constant fixed Praeses on his part, were certainly as little worth all the stir and vexation made about him, as the Bishops their insignificant Dignities and Ceremonies were a cause inferior to the late wars, which they did mostly occasion: And it were a folly insufferable for wise men… so desirous of ease, to set so little value upon so great a thing, as is the peace of both Church and State, disturbed by the present Episcopacy and this Presidencie offered: But seeing it is evident, that the thing designed by this proposal… is a compliance with the present establishment, not only to the relaxing of conscience and the bonds of former ingagements, but to the suppression and extirpation of the true Government of Gods House, the acknowledging of, and submitting unto the Supremacy, more absurdl… contrary to the Power and Liberty of the Gospel, then its instrument Prelacy, which we have expresly and particularly abjured, can the Author reasonably find fault, if he rencounter in us an opposition commensurat both to the value of the prize, and the measure of his own instance? If men, for poor perishing interests, do endeavour at so high a rate to introduce their modes and inventions, for no other end imaginable… then that by the contrivance and influence thereof, they may have the Gospel Ministry and Kingdom of our Lord still in subjection unto their lusts and pleasures, Should not the lovers of Gods Glory and of their own salvation, the proper and great ends of all Christs institutions, more vigourously resist all these their intended corruptions?

I ma… not here stand to discusse the specious and flattering pretensions held out by our Adversaries, as if meer subtilties were by us opposed to the solid good of the Churches peace: Certainly he, who remembereth how, in the ancient times of the Church, Satan was very cunning to set the mystery of iniquity on foot, from the smallest and least suspicious beginnings, & yet thence, by more sub…ile and metaphysical methods then these which our Author undervalued, to carry it on to the very revelation p. 63of the Man of sin, and withal considereth in our own late experience the meen entrie, as Kirk-commissioners and constant Moderators, with the suddain elevation and corruption, of King Iames his Prelats, unlesse he do very supinely misregard the intimation of all present circumstances, specially that of an al-swaying Supremacie already regnant, can neither be ignorant of, nor catched by such devices.

But the Peace of the Church is of great value; Thus they, who have troubled and overturned the righteous Peace of a wel setled Church, are not ashamed to make their possession, attained by wrong and violence, a plea for their security in their evil way; and after that, by breaking their Oath and Covenant, & ranversing the Lords Work and Ministry, they have got what the… desired, and used force and compulsion against consciencious Nonconformists, until they are wearied, now they come forth to practise by flatteries a few Syrens, with charmes of peace, canting in Nazianzen's words, foreign, to try if these enticings may be more succesful, and by a strangely comprehensive spirituality both of truth and error, telling us, that when one saith he is for Bishops, another I am for Presbytery, that we are carnal; as if the Apostles censure of a divisive respect of persons were equally against the discrimination of things which the Lord himself hath certainly distinguished: But as, in the competition of peace, the heathens saying, foreign, might have admonished the Author, and seing that that peace is only precious, which is founded in, & designed for truth; so when it is meerly pretended for procuring a sinful compliance with an evil course, it is but an empty delusion. We know whose practice it was to heal the hurt of the Lords People slightly, saying peace, peace, when there was no peace: To pretend for, nay to pursue seriously after peace, without regard to Truth, Righteousnesse, and Reconciliation with God, is only a precipitant error, and lying vision: But he who stands in the Counsel of the Lord, and causeth his People to hear His Words, should turne them from their evil way, and from the evil of their doings: And when the loud and harsh p. 64noises of our debates shall be turned into the sweetersound of united mourning and lamenting after the Lord, then, and not before, may we looke that the Lord will return and cause his face to shine on us, and restore unto us his favour, the fountain and blessing of all other blessings: This is the only way, to shew our selves real supplicants for peace; & indeed to remove all the obs…ructions that may disappoint its firm enjoyment: Nay, this is the mean whereby the sincere seekers of the …ord, do, even in the midst of tribulation, attain to that superexcelling Peace of God, which surely establisheth, and that joy, which no man takes from them.

But the Author still longing for and hastening to outward peace, not that which the Lord left and gave to his followers, exhorteth unto a temper recep…ive of it, and that is, great meeknesse and charity; and, no doubt, in their right application… these are most beautiful graces: but as they seem here to be proposed, for the preposterous courting of this worlds peace… I feare that they are not only unseasonably recommended, in exclusion of the love of Truth and zeal of God, incompatible with the Authors evil courses, but, with an extension of charity to rejoyce in iniquity, and meeknesse towards wickednesse beyond their known and just measures. It is true whatsoever party or opinion we follow in this matter, the ba…ge, by which we must be known to be …ollowers of Iesus Christ, is …his, that we love on another; Yet … must take the l…berty to say, first, that in this point to confound persons and things, on purpose to transfer that love and charitie we owe the former to t…e latter, though never so detestable, is but a silly sophisme. He who rightly estimateth Christian love will readily acknowledge, that oftentimes the wounds of a friend may be faithful, when his kisses would prove deceitful Next, that though the Author would alleviat our present differences, as amounting to no more then opin…ons and humours; yet I do reall… conceive some of them to be o that import… as to judge a perverse and stated enemy, asserting t…e Supremacie to the manifest denyal of Christ's Kingdom and Government in His house, not to merite the privelege of one of his p. 65Disciples; nay, that in order to such, David's profession, Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee? And, am not I grieved, O Lord, with them that rise up against thee? I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them mine enemies, may rather become our duty. And thence it is, that although this Law of love be in…eed of Divine right, & therefore would not be broken by bitter passion and revilings & rooted ha…reds, fo… things in dispute betwixt us; Yet, sure I am, it doth as certainly admit of the foregoing exceptions, as the things questioned are to us without doubt, and only drawn in debate by the perverse disputings of corrupt men: Not that I think that, even in matters most certain, bit…er passion, revilings, and rooted hatreds or malice are allowable; nay, this is rather my Authors supposition, and his insinuation, as if we were indeed guilty of these things, is aboundantly obvious. But as I am truly perswaded, that all …hese are in every case unworthy either of truth or a Christian temper; so I am assured, an impartial discerner will find no lesse of vain contempt & saucy undervaluiug couched in the Author's affected smoothness, then there doth appear of passion in the most impotent railing; and therefore, if for the rod of pride found in his mouth, I have sometime used a rod for his back; I hope both its justice and expedience will cleare me of any injury.