History of the Catholic Church from 600 to 1600, Ecclesiastical epoch 1300-1600 · Century 16 · Part 3 · Chapter 4 (3 of 5)
X. A Parliament was held in January: wherein many Acts were made, 1573.partly for maintaining the Kings authority, and partly for maintaining the true Religion: theſe two cauſes at that time were ſo linked, that the enemies of the one were eſteemed enemies of the other. Therefore it was enacted, that none should be reputed loyall ſubjects unto the King or his authority, but be punished as rebells, who made not profeſſion of the true Religion; And that all who made profeſſion thereof, and were not obedient to the Kings authority, should be admonished by their Teachers, to acknowledge their offence, and return to his Majeſties obedience, or els should be excommunicated, as putrid members. The Nationall Aſſembly conveenes The 24 Aſſembly.at Edinburgh March 6. here were members according to the order, and John Archbishop of Santandrews. David Ferguſon Miniſter at Dumfernlin is choſen Moderator. 1. Where as a complaint was made againſt John Row for ſolemnizing the marriage of the Maſter of Crawford with the Lord Drummond's Daughter without proclamation of bans; and he did alledge, that he did it by the order of the Seſſion of the Church, whereof the Lord Ruthuen was one and preſent at that time; The Aſſembly ordaines, that the Act made againſt Miniſters ſolemnizing mariage of other parishoners without proclamation of bans, to have ſtrength againſt John Row, and him to underly the cenſure, enduring the Church's will. 2. No collection for the poore shall be gathered in time of Sermon nor adminiſtration of the Sacrament, but only at the Churchdoor. 3. If any Miniſter reſide not at the Church, where his charge is, he shall be ſummoned before the Superintendent or Commiſſioner of the Province, to whom the Aſſembly gives power to depoſe him; and ordaines, that they report their diligence unto the next Aſſembly. 3. All Superintendents & Commiſſioners of viſitation shall proceed ſummarily againſt all Papiſts within their Province, and charge them within eight dayes to join themſelves unto the Religion preſently eſtablished, by learning the Word of God, and then by partaking of the Sacrament; and to give their oath, and ſubſcribe according to the Act of Parliament, and Acts agreed-upon betwixt the Regent, Counſell and Commiſſioners of the Church: and if any shall refuſe, to proceed, &c. 4. All Bishops, Superintendents, and Commiſſioners of viſitation shall be preſent the firſt day of the Aſſembly before noon, and continue untill the end, Under pain of loſing half of their ſtipend for a year, and nevertheleſs to continue in ſerving, during that time. 5. Concerning the deſire of the Lord Regent to place ſome of the learned Miniſters, Senators in the Colledge of Juſtice; The Aſſembly after long reaſoning hath voted and concluded, that none is able to beare theſe two charges: and therefore inhibites all Miniſters, that none take upon them to be a Senator, except Robert Pont only, who is already entred by advice, &c. 6. Five articles are preſented by the Superint. & Miniſters of Lothian; to wit, 1. All the Actes of the G. Aſſembly should be copied and ſent to every Exerciſe. 2. Such matters as fall out betwixt the Synodall conventions and the Generall Aſſemblies, shall be notified to every Exerciſe twenty dayes before the Generall Aſſembly, and be reported by them. 3. Such matters as are referred by the ſubordinat aſſembly unto the Generall, shall be penned faithfully by the Superintendent's Clerk, and reported unto the Generall aſſembly by the Superintendent. 4. that the Generall aſſemblies be frequented by the Nobility and Barons as in former times. 5. Miniſters, who have not money to buy books, may at this time, have them lowſed unto them by the Collector, and the prices of them to be allowed in their ſtipends. The Aſſembly ratifieth all theſe as profitable. 7. Bishops, Superintendents and Commiſſioners shall without delay purchaſe Letters, commanding all men to frequent preaching and prayers, according to the order eſtablished in particular congregations; And to charge the Inferior Magiſtrat, to put into execution the Acts concerning the obſervance thereof, and for execution of diſciplin and punishing of vice. 8. If a man paſſe out of the country, and leaving his wife shall marry another woman; and his wife shall marry another man in his abſence, both are adulterers, unleſs the ſentence of divorcement hath been pronounced by the Judge. Whereas in theſe Acts mention is made of Exerciſe, it is to be marthat at that time Prsebyteries (or Claſſes, as others call them) were not erected but the Miniſters of a burgh and circumjacent churches did conveen of their own accord on a certain day of the week, in the burgh, and did preach publickly in the Church per vices for mutuall edification and manifeſting the increaſe of their gifts: and this meeting was called The Exerciſe. The Aſſembly The 25. Aſſembly.conveenes at Edinburgh Auguſt. 6. Here were many Earles, Lords, Barons, ſome Bishops, Superintendents &c. Alexander Arbuthnot Principall of the Coledge of old Aberdien is choſen Moderator. 1. The books of Bishops, Superintend. and Commiſſioners of viſitation were produced, and certain Miniſters are appointed to examin their diligence in viſitation. John Douglas Bishop of Satandrews was accuſed for admitting a Papiſt Prieſt into the Miniſtry, to whom the Superintend. of Lothian had preſcribed certain injunctions, and he had not obeied them; for not viſiting, nor preaching that half year; for giving collation of a Benefice (which was before beſtowd on a Miniſter) to another ſuſpect of Popery; for ſuffering the Exerciſe to decay through his default; for admitting ſome to function in the Church, who were unable and not examined, namely ſome coming out of Mers & Lothian; for viſiting by others and not by himſelf. He anſwered unto the firſt, he admitted not that Prieſt, untill he had recanted Popery openly in the Church of Sa…tandrews. The Aſſembly enjoynes the Prieſt, to ſatisfy the injunctions preſcribed in Lothian, which he had not obeyd: and in the mean time inhibites him, to exerciſe any function in the Church. To the next he anſwered. He had preached perſonally where he did viſite: but …or ſi…knes did not viſite ſince the laſt Aſſembly. And for other things he pretended ignorance, or weaknes, &c. James Patoun B. of Dunkell was accuſed, that he had accepted the name of a Bishop, but hath not uſed the office of a Bishop: he had not proceeded againſt Papiſts within his bounds: he is ſuſpect of Simony betwixt the Earle Argile and him, concerning the profits of the Bishoprick: yea and of perjury, in that contrary to his oath at the receiving the Bi…hoprick, he gives Acquittances, and the Earle receives the ſilver. Alex. Gordon B. of Galloway i… accuſed that he intruded himſelf into the office of the Miniſtry within Edinb. he enticed the people to rebellion againſt our ſoverain Lord: he refuſed to pray for our Soverain, and approved another authority; he being forbidden by the G. Aſſembly to have any intromiſſion with the parishoners of Ha…rudhouſe, yet compelled them to receive the Sacrament, and cauſed pretended Balies and men of war to compell the poore people; being ſworn by ſolemne oath unto due obedience unto our Severain and his Regent and authority; he had brok…n his oath by ſitting in the pretended Parliament for diſpoſſ…ſſing our Soverain of his royall Crown & aut…ority; he had given thanks publickly in pulpit for the ſlaug…ter of the Regent Mathew Earle of Lennox, and exhorted the people to do the like: …e was a perverter of the people, not only before the Reformation, but at ſundry other times. He anſwered, He was free of all theſe by the Act of pacification. It was replied, The States had not abſolved him (a Bishop) from the cenſure of the Church in talibus. So he was ordained under the pain of excommunication, to make publick repentance three ſeverail Sundayes, one in the Church of Edinburgh, another in Hal…rudhouſe, and the third in the Queen's-colledge-church. Robert Pont was accuſed, that being Commiſſioner to viſite Murray, he reſideth not there, nor hath viſited Churches theſe two years, excep the chief four he hath viſited once. He alledgeth want of leiſure, becauſe he was ordained to attend the Colledge of Juſtice. Whereupon the Superintendent of Lothian moveth the queſtion, Whither it be lawfull by the Word of God, that the adminiſtration of the Word and Sacraments, and the adminiſtration of criminall and civill Juſtice be ſo confounded, that one man may occupy both the charges? It was anſwered, It is neither agreable with the Word of God, not practiſe of the primitive Church. 2. In Seſſ. 3 They who receive excommunicate perſons should be cenſured with excommunication after due admonitions, if they deſiſt not: and if they be guilty after admonition, though thereafter they deſiſt, yet they shall make publick r…pentance of that fault. 3. The Secretary of the Counſell preſenteth certain heads concerning the aſſignation of Miniſters ſtipends. 4. Licence is given to Bishops, Superientendents and Commiſſioners of viſitation, to take notice of the ſituation of parish churches, and to change them for t…e commodity of the people: as alſo of the gleebs. 5. They who conſult with witches or enchanters should be cenſured. 6. Great or rich men being guilty of crimes, should be cenſured even alike as poor men, and no diſpenſation should be granted unto them for money though ad pios uſus. Where mention is made here of Biſhops and Superintendents, it is to be obſerved, that at that time the Bishop of Santandrews had the viſitation of Fife only; and John Winram had the viſitation of Perth-shire; and John Spotſwood continued in Lothian as before. Next concerning theſe aſſignations and change of Parish-churches, Bishop Spotſwood in Hiſtor. Libr. 5. Shewes, that this Regent ſubtilly drew out of the power of the Church the thirds of Benefices, promiſing more ſure and ready paiment unto the Miniſters, and to make every ſtipend locall; with expreſs promiſe, that if they shall find themſelves prejudiced they should be reponed to their poſſeſsion, whenſoever they shall require it. But ſo ſoon as hee was poſſeſſed of the thirds, he took courſe to joyn two or three or four churches to one Miniſter (who was tied to preach in them by turns); and he placed in every parish a Reader, to read prayers and the word, in the Miniſters abſence: and the Reader had 20. or 30. pounds Scots: and the Miniſters were put to a neceſſity of attending the for mer aſſignation, and then a precept for paiment: or if their neceſſity did urge to ſeek augmentation, a petty thing that was granted, was dear bought by the loſſe of time and charges in ſeeking it. The Superintendents were no better uſed: when they complained, that their portion was with-held: it was ſayd, Theit office was no more neceſſary ſeing, bishops now are in the Diocies, and the eccleſiaſticall juriſdiction belongs unto them. So the Regent ſeeking to enrich himſelf, loſed the Church: and when they ſought to be reſtored to their former poſſeſſion according to the Act of Parliament and his promiſe; after many shifts and delayes he told them, Seing the Superplus belongs unto the King, it was fitter, the Regent and Counſell should modifie the ſtipends of Miniſters, than that they have the deſignation of the Superplus. Thirdly obſerve, that when the propoſition was made fairly, to change and unite churches for the expediency of the people, the Aſſembly gave not power unto the Commiſſioners, to unite parishes at their pleaſure, but gave way unto the propoſition, in ſo far as expediency of the people required; as appeares clearly by a Letter writt by John Erskin (the Superintendent) unto the ſame Aſſembly, in theſe words: Hearing that in my abſence a complaint was given upon mee, alledging that I had deſtroyd or cauſed deſtroy the church of Inshbrayak, and to have joyned that parishon to the Church of Maritoun: I have thought good, to declair unto your Wi. my part in that cauſe: I never did deſtroy a parish-church, but would had the reparation of all; As to that church of Inshbrayak, I in my viſitation finding it ſpoiled, and broken down. did requeſt the parishoners there of, to reſort unto the church of Maritoun, being neare unto them, untill their own church were bigged and repaired: to which they did conſent, not to continue ever ſo, but for a time, untill their own church were bigged: the which I wish to be done shortly; and what in mee lyeth to further the ſame, shall not be omitted; This is the trueth of that matter: And if it be found otherwiſe, I shall build the church on my expences; If your Wiſdomes think any fault here-in, I am ſubdued, and shall obey your godly judgement. Under this Letter is written, thus; At Edinburgh Auguſt 10. 1573. The Church preſently aſſembled findeth no fault in the premiſſes done by the Superintendent, but all his proceedings there in worthy of praiſe. And it is ſubſcribed by the Clerk of the Aſſembly, J. Gray.
XI. The Aſſembly conveenes at Edinburgh March. 6. 1574. where 1574. The 26. Aſsembly.were Earls, Lords, Bb. Superintend. &c. Androw Hay Miniſter is choſen Moderator. 1. The Bishop of Dunkell is ordained to confeſſe his fault publickly in the church of Dunk. for not executing the Sentence of the Church againſt the Earle of Athole. 2. George Bishop of Murray is ordained to be ſummoned to give his purgation of the fornication alledged to be committed by him with the Lady Ardroſs. 3. Commiſſion was given to certain Miniſters to ſummon the Chapter of Murray before them, to examine their proceedings, and what ground they had, to give unto the foreſaid George douglas their teſtimoniall without due tryall of his converſation and literature. 4. Unto the L. Regent and Lords of the Privy Counſell with others of the States now eonveened with his Grace, the Church generall now aſſembled wisheth everlaſting health in Chriſt; That holy myſtery of God is not unknown, who hath ehoſen unto himſelfe a Church, and that from the beginning, which shall continue for ever; And the ſame is the company of the faithfull profeſſors of Chriſt Jeſus; And in his Church God hath appointed his holy myſteries to be miniſtred, and calleth men to be Miniſters of them, that by the ſame Miniſtry the elect of God may be called, regenerat and nurished unto everlaſting life; For preſervation of the holy Miniſtry and Church in purity, the Lord hath appointed Aſſemblies & conventions not only of the perſons appointed unto the Miniſtry, but alſo of all the members profeſſing Chriſt: which the Church of God hath continually uſed, and uſeth the ſame aſſemblies ſanctified by the word of God, and authorized by the preſence of Jeſus Chriſt; It is alſo known unto your Gr. that ſince God hath bliſſed this Country with the light of his Euangell, the wholl Church moſt godlily appointed, and the ſame by Act of Parliam, was authorized, that two Aſſemblies of the wholl generall Church within this realm should be every year, alſwel of all members thereof in all States, as of the Miniſters: theſe aſſemlies have been continually from the firſt ordinance keept in ſuch ſort, that the moſt Noble and of the higheſt eſtate have joined themſelves by their own preſence in the aſſemblies, as members of one Body, concurring, voicing and authorizing in all things their proceedings with their Brethren; And now at this preſent the Church is aſſembled according to the godly ordinance, and looketh to have concurrence of their Brethren in all eſtates, and wisheth from God, that your Gr. and Lords of Privy Counſell will authorize the Church in this preſent Aſſ. by your preſence or by yours having your Commiſſion in your Grs and LLs names, as members of the Church of God: for as your Grs. perſence and the Nobilities should be unto us moſt confortable, it is moſt earneſtly wished of, So your Grs. abſence is unto our hearts moſt dolorous, and lamented: whereupon followes the want of a great part of the menbers, that can not well be abſent from treating theſe things, that appertain unto the Church & policy thereof, in aſſembly all together, to be handled by advice of all; and to which end the aſſemblies are appointed: the authority whereof, your Gr. knowes to be ſuch, as the contempt of it tendeth to the very dishonor of God: And therefore as yee eſteem yourſelves to be members of Chriſt and of his Church, shew the fruits thereof, which it is not the leaſt, to …oin yourſelves unto the Church, not only by hearing the word, and receiuing the Sacraments, but in conveening alſo with your Brethren the holy aſſemblers; The which to do, wee give you admonition in the name of the Lord, extending this our admonition to eueryevery perſon of whatever eſtate, that are preſent with your Gr. and L L. and eſpecially wee admonish the Bishops and ſuch as are of the Miniſtry, to ioyn themſelves with us according to their duty: Otherwiſe they will be thought unworthy the office they beare: The time the Church will ſit, will be short, and time would not be neglected: and yet the Church is not ſo preciſe, but that men may, a…ter their preſence given in the aſſembly, have liberty, as time requires, to wait upon their lawfull buſineſs: And this admonition wee give your Gr. with all reverence & humility: and chiefly in reſpect, your Gr. by your own articles & queſtions ſent to the Church, deſireth firſt to be admonished charitably, when ſoever offence ariſeth, before the ſame be otherwiſe traduced. 5. Some were appointed topenne the heads of the juriſdiction of the Church, and to preſent them unto the aſſembly. 6. Concerning the juriſdiction of bishops in their eccleſiaſticall function, it is concluded, that the ſame shall not exceed the juriſdiction of Superintendents, which heretofore they have had, and preſently have: And they shall be ſubject unto the diſcipline of the generall aſſembly, as members thereof, even as the Superintendents have been heretofore, in all ſort. 7. No Superintendent nor Commiſſioner of planting churches shall give Collation of Benefice, nor admit Miniſters, without the aſſiſtance of three qualified Miniſters of their Province, who shall give their teſtimonialls to the Superintendent or Commiſſioner, ſubſcribed with their hands in ſigne of their conſent: And likewiſe that no bishop give collation of any Benefice within the bounds of Superintendents within his Diocy, without their conſent and teſtimonialls ſubſcribed with their hands: And that Bishop within their Diocies viſite by them…ſeves, where no Superintendents is: and give no collation of Benefice without conſent of three well qualified Miniſters, as ſaid is of Superintendents &c. 8. Commiſſioners were appointed to conveen with the L. Regent and the Lords deputed by the Counſell, To conferre and reaſon upon the heads of the juriſdiction and policy of the Church, and other heads & articles that shall be proponed by his Gr. unto them. 9. Concerning the appointing of many Churches unto one Miniſter, that the matter may be more plain, the Church declares, that howbeit ſundry churches are appointed to one Man, yet shall the Miniſter make his reſidence at one Church, which shall be his charge properly, and he shall be called Miniſter of that Church: as for the others unto which he is nominat, he shall have the overſight of them, and help them ſo as the Bishop, Superint. or Commiſſioner shall judge expedient, and occaſion shall permit from his principall charge, which he may no way neglect; And this order to remain only, whill God of his mercy ſend moe labourers into his harveſt. For clearing the hiſtory, obſerve firſt; by comparing what is done in this aſſembly with what is written immediatly before, we ſee a variance betwixt this Regent, and the Church: This variance was not reconciled all the time of his Regiment. It was for Epiſcopacy, and the uniting of Churches; and both theſe the Regent affecteth upon account of the Church-rents. And Bishop Spotſwood in the Hiſtor. Pag. 273. ſaith, Nor left he any means unaſſayed, that ſerved to bring moneys into his cofers: which drew upon him a great deal of hatred. Secondly as the Bishops were intruded upon the Church unwillingly, howbeit way was given for a time, yet (as they ſaid in the Act of accepting them) they delay not to curbe the Bishops both in their juriſdiction and converſation. Thirdly when the Bishops were ſo hemmed-in, they are not contented, but ſeek to put away Superintendents (as appeares by denying their ſtipends) and the liberty of meeting in Aſſemblies: and therefore this aſſembly do ſo much urge the authority and neceſſity of Aſſemblies. Fourthly they alledge an Act of Parliament for aſſembling twice in the year: certanly they would not have alledged it in ſuch a manner, if ſuch an Act had not been: but whither it was in the Queens time, or in King James time, it is uncertance, becauſe ſuch an Act is not printed. Fifthly becauſe it was alledged in the end of the former year, that the juriſdiction of the Church belongeth unto the Bishops, therefore the aſſembly ſets upon a conſtant policy of the Church; and this was a work of ſome years, as followes; and the reſult was the Second book of Diſcipline. Sixthly the Nationall Church was ſo far from barring the Supreme Magiſtrate and Counſellers out of the Aſſemblies (as a railer againſt the Scots diſcipline hath lately vented in print either ignorantly or impudently) that they did not only lament his and their abſence, but charged him and them, in Gods name, to be preſent, &c. And what was the practiſe after that time; de facto it will appear hereafter. The Aſſembly conveenes at Edinb. Auguſt 7. here were Barons, Bb. Superinten. The 27. Aſſembly.&c. John Duncanſon Min. at Tranent is choſen Moderator. 1. Becauſe Alexander Bishop of Galloway had not ſatiſfied according to the injunction of the Aſſembly in the year 1573. John Brand Min. at Halirudhonſe is ordained under pain of deprivation, to excommunicate him, if he ſatiſfy not. 2. If any Bishop, Superintendent or Commiſſioner of viſiting churches shall be found negligent, or not to exerce their debtfull charge in viſitation and teaching, or be culpable in life, he shall be cenſured according to the quality of the offence, either by admonition, publick repentance, deprivation for a time or ſimpliciter. 3. No Miniſter shall uſe or exercize the office of Collectory or Chalmerlanery under any Bishop or Beneficed perſon whatever, becauſe it is a diſtraction from his vocation, Under pain of deprivation. 4. Some articles were ſent unto the Lord Regent, namely, that ſtipends be granted unto a Superintendent in every Province, whither it bee, where no Bishop is, or whe…e is a Bishop who can not diſchage his office, as, Santandrews, Glaſgow, That in every Church deſtitute of a Miniſter ſuch perſons may be preſented, and …tipends be granted unto them, as are here preſent, and whoſe names shall be delivered by the Bb. Superint. or Commiſſioners. 5. A complaint was made againſt the Bishop of Dunkell for miniſtration of the Lords Supper upon wo…k-dayes; and he is forbidden to do ſo again, but only upon the Lords day, according to the order of other Churches. 6. If any Parliament shall be called, or any other weighty cauſe require the preſence of the Body of the Aſſembly, the Superintendent of Lothian, James Lowſon Miniſter at Edinburgh and David Lindſay Miniſter at Lieth, shall give timous premonition unto the Brethren, to conveen; and that Convention shall be reputed an Aſſembly. 7. The abſents from the aſſembly shall be charged, to compear in the next, to be cenſured for their abſence. Note, 1. James Boyd was enduced by the Lord Boyd to accept the title of the Bishoprick of Glaſgow, which that Lord had purchaſed for his own gain of the revenues: and in the former Act he is named as unable unto the office: and in the ſame aſſembly he excuſed his negligence in the Church-affaires, becauſe he was employd in other affairs of that office. 2. Within ſome weeks after that aſſembly John called Archbishop of Santandrews, went into the pulpit topreach, and falling down died. 3. By an Act under the privy Signet of the date November 21. 1574. it appeares, that John erskin, ſo long as he had been Superintendent, had not been in the Shiref-court, though he was a Baron; and at that time had exemption granted both for time by paſt, and to come, during his continuance in that office.
XII. The National Aſſembly conveenes at Edinb. March. 7. (as they 1575. The 28. Aſſembly.then did reckon) year 1574. where were Earles, Lords, bb. Superindents &c. James Boyd Bishop of Glaſgow is choſen Moderator. 1. The bb. of Dunkell, Brechin, Murray and of Glaſgow were removed, and complaints made againſt every one of them. Alexander Bishop of Galloway now ſubmitteth himſelfe. Upon his ſubmiſſion and by ſolicitation of the Lord Regent, he obtaines diſpenſation to be accepted, if he will confeſle his offence in the church of Halirudhouse only. 2. It is ordained, that none be admitted unto the office of a Bishop, unleſs he be examined and approved by the Aſſembly. 3. No Comoedies nor tragoedies or ſuch playes should be made on any hiſtory of Canonicall Scriptures, nor on the ſabboth day: If any Miniſter be the writer of ſuch a play, he shall be deprived of his Miniſtry; As for playes of another ſubject, they alſo should be examined, before they be propounded publickly. 3. Whereas Andrew Graham hath been preſented unto the bishoprick of Dunblain, undet the name of a Preacher, albeit he be not one; and it is alledged, that there hath been no concluſion, that all Bb. should firſt be Preachers; and ſo if he be qualified to be a Preacher, the preſentation should be accepted; therefore the aſſembly appointeth him to preach on wedneſday upon Rom. 5. 1. and nameth certain perſons to be preſent. 4. Bishops, Superintendents and every Miniſter are enjoined, to admonish all ſuch as were Papiſts within their bounds, and have ſubſcribed the Confeſſion of faith, according to the Act of Parliament, that they should alſo participate of the Sacrament duly with their own congregation, under pain, that they shall be held Relapſe, and be cenſured with excommunication. It may appear from theſe, what manner of Bishops theſe were, and that the Preſenters of them, aimed at their own advantadge, and not at the good of the Church. In the Aſſembly at Edinburgh Auguſt 6. were The 29. Aſſembly.Bb. Superintendents, &c. Robert Pont is choſen Moderator. 1 When Bb. were removed to be cenſured, John Dury Miniſter at Edinburgh proteſteth, that the tryall of Bishops shall not prejudge the opinions and reaſons which he and other Brethren have againſt the office of ſuch Bishops. 2. Alexander Bishop of Galloway delivereth an atteſtation of his ſatiſfaction according to the ordinance: he is reſtored to the liberty of preaching; and ſtandes ſtill ſuſpended from commiſſion of viſitation: but is ordered, to aſſiſt John Row Commiſſioner of Galloway pro hac vice. 3. The Bishop of Dunkell is ordained, to reſide with his family at Dunkell before the next Aſſembly, Under pain of deprivation. Hee is alſo accuſed of dilapidation of his Benefice: hee craves, that he may have the liberty of an Advocate to plead for him: this is refuſed; but he should anſwer for himſelf, or chuſe a Miniſter, to argue for him, within three days. 4. Becauſe comely and decent apparell is requiſite in all men, eſpecially in theſe, which have function in the Church; therefore all Miniſters and Preachers are forbidden to have any broudering, bagaries of velvet on gown, on cloke or coat, or have any cutting out of their cloaths, ſtitching with ſilk, peſments or lace; all variant colours on sherts, rings, bracelets, buttons of ſilver or of any metall, all velvet, ſatine, tafety, any licht color, but that all their habite be of grave color, to the end, the good word of God be not ſlandered by them and their immoderateneſs; And that their vifes be ſubject unto the ſame ordinance. 5. Becauſe the long continuance of Commiſſioners may induce ſome ambition & other inconvenients; after long reaſoning, it is concluded by the grearter part, that the Commiſſioners shall be changed yearly. 6. Eight Articles to be preſented unto the Lord Regent. 1. for planting the word throghout the realm, it is petitioned, that ſuch Miniſters as are not as yet placed, may be received; Miniſters which have many churches, may be relieved, and Commiſſioners be …aſed, and Bb having too great a charge may be helped; And prouiſion of Commiſſioners may be payd for theſe two years bypaſt, and in time coming. 2. That ſuch impediments may be removed, which hinder the progreſſe of the doctrine, ſuch as, abundance of vice un punished, markets on the Lords day, and the troubling of Miniſters in execution of theit Miniſtry. 3. That the order concerning the poore, which before was begun, may be put to full execution: and to that effect, a portion of the tyths, which is the Churche's patrimony, a…ſwell of the two parts as of the thirds, may be employd for their ſuſtentation, as neceſſity craves. 4. Becauſe the Schools are the fountains, from which Miniſters muſt flow, that proviſion may be made for them, not only for Students remaining within the realm, but for ſome men of good engine, which by this Church shall be found fit, to viſite other Churches and Vniverſities for their furtherance in learning: and namely for Glaſgow, becauſe it is lately erected, and hath not ſuch proviſion as other Uniuerſities. 6. That all daies, which heretofore have been keept holy, beſids the Lords day, to wit, Jule-day, Saints-dayes and ſuch others be abolished, and a civill penalty be appointed againſt the keepers hereof by ceremonies, banketting, playing and ſuch other vanities. 7. That all Miniſters and Readers, who by infirmity and age become unable, may have their ſtipends enduring their life. 8. That the Clerk of the aſſembly be anſwered of the ordinary ſtipend appointed before in reſpect of his labours multiplied by writing letters Gratis for uſe of Minſters, &c. Concerning the Queſtion, Whither Bishops, as they are now in Scotland, have their function from the Word of God, or not? And whit…er the Chapters, that are appointed for creating them, ought to be tolerated in this Reformed Church? for better reſolution heerof the Aſſembly appoints John Craig, James Lowſon, and Andrew Melvin Principall of the Colledge of Glaſgow on the one part; and George Hay, John Row and David Lindſay on the other part, To conveen, reaſon and conferre upon theſe queſtions; and to report their judgement and opinion, &c. After two daies theſe make report, viz, They think it not fit, to anſwer unto the firſt queſtion preſently: but if any Bishop shal be choſen, which hath not ſuch qualities as the word of God pteſcribes, let him be tryed by the Generall aſſembly de novo, and ſo let him be depoſed. But the points wheron they agree concerning the office of a Bishop or Superintendent are. 1. The name of Bishop is common to all them, that have any particular flock, over which he hath a peculiar charge, alſwell to preach the word as to Miniſter the Sacraments, and to execute eccleſiaſticall diſcipline with conſent of his Elders; and this is his chief function by the word of God. 2. Out of this number may be choſen ſome to have power to overſee and viſite ſuch reaſonable bounds (beſides his own flock) as the Generall Church shall appoint; and in theſe bounds to appoint Miniſters with conſent of the Miniſters of that Province, and conſent of the flock, to whom they shall be appointed; alſo to appoint Elders & Deacons in every particular congregation, where are none, with conſent of the people thereof; and to ſuſpend Miniſters for a reaſonable cauſe, with conſent of the Miniſters foreſaid. 8. The Church hath power to cognoſce & decern upon hereſies, blaſphemy, witchcraft and violation of the Lords day, Not prejudging the punishment of the Civill Magiſtrate. 9. There is no law, that when two perſons have committed fornication, nor promiſe alledged by the woman, the man may be compelled by any particular Church at the ſuit of the woman or her parents, to marry her, or pay her dowry. 10. Children begotten before marriage, are lawfull children. Note. If wee compare what was done before in the aſſemblies, this queſtion concerning the Bishops was not a new motion made by Andrew meluin come lately from Geneua: he had not power to command the meaneſt Miniſter, and far leſs to overrule the Aſſembly. The Church from the beginning of the Reformation did oppoſe that kind of Bishops: and howbeit ſome of the Popish Bb. had embraced the Reformation, yet had they not any power, but according to commiſſion; and wee have heard, how John Knox in his letter carried the office of Epiſcopacy under the name of tyranny: and when the concluſions at Lieth were obtruded upon the Church, thogh they did yeeld for a time, yet that office was limited, and in effect but the name remaining: nevertheleſs the Aſſembly did proteſt againſt the very names and whatſoever power was yeelded unto. Maſter Meluin ſaid then, The corruptions in the eſtate of Bishops are ſo great, that unleſſe the Bishops be removed, it can not go weell with the Church, nor can religion be preſerved in purity. But he ſaid not …o much, as Beza had written before in the year 1572. and experience hath confirmed their words: how far was theſe Nations gone in atheiſm, if God of his mercy had not ſtopped them? In that aſſembly were ſixe Bishops beſids Superintend. yet none of them did oppoſe the ſifting of the queſtion nor the concl…ſions. 2. Howbeit in theſe concluſions they expreſs not the negative, becauſe they would not plainly oppoſe the particulare intereſt of the Counſell ſeeking ſecurity of the poſſeſſions by the title of Bishops: yet theſe affirmatives take away the pretended office: and more followes.
XIII. The Aſſembly conveenes at Edinburgh Aprile 25. in the year 1576. 1576. The XXX. Aſſembly.were preſent ſixe Bb, Superintendents, &c. John row is choſen Moderator. 1. Plurality of Offices is obiected againſt Robert hamiltoun Miniſter at Santandrews: the matter was long debated, and concluded that in reſpect of that congregation two offices are incompatible in his perſon. 2. Concerning the advice of the Brethren in the former Aſſembly concerning Bishops, this aſſembly after long diſputation upon every Article thereof, doe reſolutely approve and confirm that advice and every article thereof: and for the better execution thereof, the Aſſembly ordaines Bishops, which have not as yet received the charge of a particulare congregation, to declare the next day, what particular flock they will take the charge of. 3. Sixe Miniſter… and the Superintendent of Anguiſe are appointed to viſite the Colle…ges in the Univerſity of Santandrewes, and conſider the manner and eſtate thereof, and make report unto the next Aſſembly. 4. It is concluded, that they may proceed againſt the unjuſt poſſeſſors of the patrimony of the Church, in reſpect of the notorious ſcandall; to wit, by doctrine and admonition, and if need be, with other cenſure of the Church; And the patrimony of the Church, where upon the Miniſtry, the Schools and the poor should be ſuſtained; is ex Jure Divino; leaving further diſputation of this matter untill May. 1. and then the deſcription of the patrimony of the Church to be enquired, and reaſoning to be, for full reſolution of the queſtion. 5. Certain Brethren are appointed, to make Overtures concerning the policy and juriſdicton of the Church; ſome to conveen at Glaſgow, ſome in Edinburgh, ſome in Santandrews, and ſome in Montroſs upon the firſt tuiſday of July; and to make a generall meeting of two or one at leaſt from every one of theſe four, in Sterline the laſt of July, To communicat, and cognoſce of all their travells: and to conferre univerſally together, and to report, what they shall conceive in this matter, unto the next Aſſembly, which is appointed to be in Edinburgh October 24. or if a Parliament shall conveen, the aſſembly ordaines the Miniſters of Edinburgh to make intimation thereof unto the Bb. Superintendents and Commiſſioners of viſitation, that the Aſſembly may be conveened four daies before the Parliament, and that the Barons or other Commiſſioners appointed by the Provinciall Aſſemblies, be exhorted to be preſent. It is to be obſerved, that the wholl matter of juriſdiction was no committed unto every one of theſe four parties: but particular heads was committed to every perſon; and their conceptions were to be examined in their particular convention, &c. as will appear by the next Aſſembly: which conveened at Edinburgh The 31. Aſſembly.October 24. where were two Bb. Superintendents, &c. John Craig is choſen Moderator. 1. Three Miniſters were ſent to petition the Lord Regents preſence, or ſome authorized by his commiſſion: they report his anſwer, that this advertiſement was come ſo ſuddenly, that he could not be preſent, nor addreſs Commiſſioners: but if the Aſſembly think it meet, he shall appoint ſome of the Counſell, to conveen with their commiſſioners, To conferre upon ſuch things as may tend to the furtherance of Gods glory. 2. It is thought good, that the things already penned concerning the Policy of the Church (as was ordained in the late aſſembly) should be reviſed, and other particulars, which now may be given-in should be heard and put in good form: The Aſſembly requeſteth the Lord Chancellor, the Laird of Lundy, Miniſters Andrew Hay, Andrew Melvin, James Lowſon, John Dury, Robert Pont, James Wilky, George Hay, and Clement Litle, To conveen after noon dayly, during this aſſembly, and conferre what is already penned, with other things that may be given-in: adviſe thereupon, collect, and put in good form: and report the ſame unto the Aſſembly before diſſolution hereof. 3. Becauſe the multitude of particulares in the books of Commiſſioners ſpend much time, and they who are deputed to reviſe them, know them not ſo weell as the provinciall Synods; It is appointed, that the books of the Viſiters or Commiſſioners be tryed in the provinciall Synods, and ſubſcribed by their Clerks, and reported again to each Generall aſſembly by the Commiſſioners, that the Church may know their diligence. 4. It is ordained that all Miniſters within eicht Myls or otherwiſe at the diſcretion of the Viſiter shall reſort unto the place of Exerciſe each day of Exerciſe, and eſpecially the Miniſters, who are appointed to prophecy and ad: where in if either of theſe two shall faile, he shall be cenſured by the Exerciſe for the firſt fault: and by the Synod for the ſecond fault: and if he incurre the third time, he shall be ſummoned before the Generall aſſembly. 5. Whereas Patrick adamſon is preſented to the bishoprik of Santandrews, ſome do propound, that according to the ordinance of the Aſſembly concerning Bishops, he should be examined by the Aſſembly, before he be admitted by the Chapter. The ſaid Patrick anſwereth, The Lord Regent had diſcharged to proceed in that manner, becauſe the Act is not conſented unto; And the Aſſembly conſents, that anſwer shall be given to the Lord Regent by the Chapter. 6. Three are ſent unto the Lord Regent, for proviſion to be made unto the Viſitors, according to the order. Anſwer was returned the next day, that the Lord Regent will adviſe with the rols and the generall Collector. 7. The Clerk of the Secret Counſell preſenteth ſome queſtious, for the better expedition of Miniſters ſtipends, and craves in the Regents name, the deciſion of theſe queſtions, at leaſt, of ſo many of them, as may bee for the time. The aſſembly appoints ſixteen Miniſters and the Superintendent of Anguiſe, to conveen this day after the diſſolution of the aſſembly, To viſite and conſider the Heads of the Policy, adviſe and conſult diligently thereupon, and upon theſe queſtions, and report their judgements in write unto the next Aſſembly. 8. Androw hay Commſſioner of Cli…ſdale was ſummoned to compear before the Regent and the Counſell, and to bring with him the ordinance made by the Synodall aſſembly concerning the excommunication of the Captain of Crawford, with the Act whereupon it hath proceeded, that the verity may be known. The Aſſembly ordaines him and others that were ſummoned, to give obedience. They went, and when they returned, they declare, that becauſe they had not produced the ordinance and act foreſaid (which they could not do, becauſe the Clerk was taken up for the time) the Conſell had ſuſpended the Sentence of excommunication, untill theſe were produced; and they had proteſted for the liberty of the Church. 9. Thomas hepburn was accuſed for teaching, Never a ſoul goeth to heaven before the later day. After reading of this article, the aſſembly without any exception condemneth it as hereticall, and contrary unto the reueeled word of God; and inhibites all perſons to maintain it privatly or publickly; and appoint certain Brethren, to confer with this Thomas, for his reſolution; and in the the mean time diſcharges him from entring into the Miniſtry, untill the Church ſee further concerning him. 10. The Chapter of Santandrews gave up the examination of Patrick adamſon, unto the aſſembly: and he refuſes again, to ſubmitt unto the the Aſſembly. 11. Saltpans and other work which drawes away people from hearing the word of God should not be permitted on the Lords day; and the violaters to be debarred from the benefits of the Church, untill they shew their repentance. 12. No burialls should be withim the walls of a church, and the contraveeners should be ſuſpended from the benefits of the Church, till, &c. 13. James Bishop of Glaſgow being required, to declare of what particular flock he would take the charge, gave this anſwer in write; Forſomuch as it is not unknown unto your W. that yee gave commiſſion unto certain godly and diſcreet Brethren, to treat and conclude with certain Noblemen appointed Commſſioners by John Earle of Marre the Kings Regent: in which Conference it was agreed by the Commiſſioners of both ſorts, that the names, ſtyle and juriſdiction of Bb. with the form and manner of inſtitution was ordained to remain and ſtand, enduring the Kings years of minority, or untill a Parliament shall decide otherwiſe; and conform to that order I was received into the Bishoprick of Glaſgow, and gave my oath unto the Kings Majeſty in things appertaining to his Highneſs; and if I would change any thing appertaining to the order or power or priviledges thereof, I should be afrajed to incurre perjury, and may be called by his Majeſty for changing a member of his State: But to the end, your W. may know, that I deſire not to be exeemed from beſtowing ſuch gifts as God hath communicat unto mee, I am content at your command to haunt a particular Church, and teach there; when I shall be in the Shirefdom of Aire, at the ſight and diſcretion of the Brethren of that Country; and when I am in Glaſgow, to exercize likewayes at ſome part where the Brethren there shall think moſt neceſſary......without the prejudice of the power and juriſdiction, which I received with the Bishoprick, untill the time preſcribed in the ſaid Conference......at which time I shall be content with all reformation, as shall be found expedient. The aſſembly is content with this anſwer untill the next Aſſembly. Obſerve 1. That the articles of the diſcipline were debated at this Aſſembly, and further conſulation was appointed. 2. Before this Aſſembly the Chancelor Lord Glamms had written unto the Church of Geneva for their adviſe in the point of juriſdiction: and after this Aſſembly Beza in anſwer ſent his book, De triplici Epiſcopatu, Divino, Humano, & Satanico. It is true, that Saravia wrote an anſwer unto that book afterwards: but how therein appeares the weakneſs of his judgement, and the partiality of his affection, I leave it to be conſidered. I add only. 1. It can not be denied that thoſe three ſorts of Bishops have been in the Church. 2. When the device of man juſtleth out the appointment of God, that device can not bring a bleſſing with it, but is rather permitted for a judgement.
XIIII. The Aſſembly coveenes at Edinburgh Aprile 1. year 1577. 1577. The 32. Aſſembly.were preſent Bb. of Glaſgow & Dunblain, Superintendents, &c. Alexander arbuthnot Principall of the colledge of Aberdien is choſen Moderator. 1. Becauſe the Moderator was not in the preceeding aſſembly, and ſo knowes not what was done; at his deſire it is appointed, that the Superintendent of Anguiſe and other ſixe Miniſters shall concurre with him at ſeven hours in the morning, to adviſe upon the things, that shall be thought good, to be handeled in this aſſembly. 2. The principall matter to be handled is the policy of the Church: ſo the Brethren were called to give account of their diligence. The heads penned by John Row and James Lowſon were read, and nothing was gain ſaid, but only one argument was referred to further diſputation, and all were required, if they had any argument in the contrary, to propound it; or if they would not argue publickly, to reſort unto theſe Commiſſioners, for their ſatisfaction; Leaving alſo liberty to propound their argument in publick, before the heads be recollected, and ordered in one body. The Superintendent of Anguiſe ſaid, the head that was aſſigned unto him, was obſcure: The aſſembly ordereth him, to conferre with the other Commiſſioners the next morning at ſeven hours. The heads committed to Androw Hay were read, and nothing was oppoſed: only the article of ſuſpending Miniſters was referred to further reaſoning. David Ferguſon's part was approved; only one article was referred. Of what was committed to John Craig, ſome were ordered to be contracted, and others referred to further reaſoning. When all was read, four Miniſters were appointed to diſpoſe them all in a convenient order; and if any man would object againſt any particular, he should have place. 3. Accuſation was layd againſt Patrick Adamſon, that he had entred into the Bishoprick of Santandrews againſt the acts of the Generall aſſembly, and had uſurped, the office of Viſitation without commiſſion, and left his office of Miniſtry. Becauſe he is not preſent to anſwer, the aſſembly gives their full power to Robert Pont, James Lowſon, David Ferguſon and the Superintendent of Lothian conjunctly, or in caſe of the Superintendents inhability to David Lindſay or John Brand, To direct ſummons againſt the ſaid Patrick to compear before them at ſuch day or dajes, as they shall think good, Within Edinburgh, To try & examine his entry and proceedings to the ſaid uſurpation of viſitation, and deſerting his ordinary Office of the Miniſtry; With power unto them, to ſummon the Chapter of Santandrews, or ſo many of the Chapter, as they shall judge expedient, if need be; and the Ordainers or inaugurers of the ſaid Patrick, as they shall think good for the better tryall of the premiſſes; and what they shall find heer-in, by proceſs of examination report unto the next aſſembly; And in the mean time to diſcharge him of further viſitation, untill he be admitted by the Church. 4. James blakwood having two Beneſices, the perſonage of Sawchar and Vicaradge of Salin, is ordained to dimit the one. 5. Certain Min. were directed, to inform the Lord Regent, that the Church is abont the matter or argument of the Church-policy: and when they shall have proceeded in it, they will give him advertiſement. They went: and returning, report, that the Lord Regent is well pleaſed with their travells, and exhorts them to expede: And if any thing occurre in the mean time, let them give him information, and they shall have his anſwer. 6. Some petitions wereſent unto the L. Reg as, that proviſion may be made for Viſitors: that perſons deprived by the Church for not doing of their Office, may be deprived of their Benefice: that he would put order to them who ſell their Benefice: that when a Benefice, shall vake, it may be beſtowed on him who ſerveth at that Church, and not on another not ſo well qualified, &c. Theſe who were ſent with theſe petitions, after they had waited ſome dayes for anſwer, return and report, that becauſe they had not commſſion in writ, his Gr. would give them no anſwer. 7. The Brethren that were appointed to collect and digeſt the heads of the policy, deliver them, and all men are required to propound, what argument they have againſt them. Three of them, de Diaconatu, de Divortiis & Jure Patronatus; were called into doubt, and nothing objected againſt the reſt. Theſe three were diſputed In utramque partem, and it was appointed to argue more of them the next day. 8. The Aſſembly conſidering the iniquity overflowing the wholl face of this common-wealth in ſo great light and revelation of the true religion; and provoking the juſtice of God to take vengeance on ſo unthankfull a Nation: And the many and perillous ſtormes and rage of perſecution againſt the true members of Chriſt in France and in other parts, Likewiſe the eſtablishing of a ſetled order and policy in the Church being now in hands: Have thought good, that earneſt recourſe shall be had to God with common ſupplications: and ſo that a generall faſt be obſerved in all the churches of the realm with doctrine & inſtructions unto the people, to begin the ſecond ſonday of July, and to continue untill the next Sonday thereafter, &c. 9. Becauſe the marter of the policy is not as yet in ſuch form as is requiſit, and ſome heads muſt be contracted, and others enlarged, for avoiding ſuperfluity and obſcurity, the ſubſtantials being keept; Some Miniſters are appointed to uſe diligence in the premiſſes; And that the work may be the more perfected before the next aſſembly (which is ordained to begin at Edinburgh Octob. 25.) other Miniſters are appointed to conveen there Octob. 19. to conſider the travells of the before named Miniſters; And the Viſitors of Provinces are ordained to make intimation unto the Noble men and Barons, that this work is in hand, and to be treated in the next Aſſembly, deſiring their preſence and concurrence, &c. Obſerve 1. In the firſt particulare a litle thing was begun for a perſonall uſe, and thereafter the ſame was continued and turned to a common evill. Theſe who were appointed to informe the Moderator at that time, in the aſſemblies following were choſen under the name of The privy conference: and power was given unto them, to conferre with the Moderator upon the purpoſes to be treated in the aſſembly, and to form the Acts before they were read in the aſſembly. This was like unto that, which in the Councell of Trent was called The Congregation. Within ſome years all matters were debated and concluded in the Privy Conference; and the body of the aſſembly had litle to do: namely, after the year 1597. ſuch men were named to be on the Privy Conference, who for the moſt part were known to favour the purpoſe intended: and one or two whom the chief leaders knew to be contrary minded, were alſo named to be there, to the end, they might know, what the contrary party would object: and when the acts were in voting and penning, theſe two or mo could do nothing by their few votes: and when their concluſions were propounded in the open aſſembly, it was called preſumption, to oppoſe what was debated and concluded by the Priuy conference: eſpecially after the erection of Bishops, the Archbishop of Santandrews by his power did name the Privy conference: and ſo were things carried both in the Generall and Epiſcopall or Dioceſane Synods. 2. The Authour of Vindiciae Philadelphi, Pag. 53. Shewes, that Patrick adamſon was a Miniſter ſoon after the reformation, and becauſe of the ſmall ſtipends at that time, left the Miniſtry, and went to France, to ſtudy the lawes: and when he returned, he became an Advocat: thereafter he turned again into the Miniſtry, at Paiſly: from that he removed to be Chaplain unto the Court, that ſo he might attain a Bishoprick: for then the Courtiers ſought men unto the name of Bishops, whom they could find contented with a cheap portion: and he accounted that portion better then a Miniſters ſtipend; he gote the Bishoprick of Santandrews, when he knew that the aſſemblies were going to abolish that Office (and wee have heard before from The hiſtoricall narration how he diſtinguished the three ſorts of Bishops.) At that time when he was ſummoned before theſe Commiſſioners, he diſſembled his mind, and promiſed to obey whatſoever the Church shall decern of Epiſcopacy: and nevertheleſs did (ſo far as he could) undermine what the Church was a doing. In the year 1582. he was taken with a lingring ſicknes, and ſought the aid of a witche: when he had keept, within doores almoſt a year, ſcarcely having recovered health he in a Sermon before the King did inveigh bitterly againſt the Order of the Church & aſſemblies: to wit, being guilty of his offences he both privatly and publickly did ſtrive againſt the Church as his mortall enemy. So far there. and more followes afterwards. In the next Aſſembly at Edinburgh Octber 25. David Lindſay was choſen Modarator, and the Privy Conference The 32. Aſſembly.ſet, as is ſaid before. 1. The aſſembly directes ſome Miniſters unto the Lord Regent, entreating his preſence or Commſſioners in his name. Three ſeverall dayes they ſent, and his anſwer ſtill was, that he was ſo taken up with publick affaires, that the could not be preſent, but he willed them to continue in the matter of the Policy. and put it to an end. 2. What was done in that matter, was propounded in the ſecond Seſſion, and all men were required, to declare the next day any other head or particulare, if they knew any meedfull to be diſputed. Theſe heads (but no new ones) were diſputed again and again in ſeverall dayes. 3. Patrick adamſon brings from the Lord Regent, a Letter which was ſent unto him from the Queen of England, shewing that a Councell was to be at Magdeburg, for eſtabliſhing the Auguſtan Confeſſion: and craving the advice of the aſſembly, whither they think good to ſent thither any Miniſters of this Nation, and whom they will name. The next day were named And. Melvin, Patrick adamſon, David Cuningham, George Hay, David Lindſay, William Criſteſon, Alex. arbuthnot, and Rob. Pont: John Craig was ſent to shew this nomination unto the Regent, that he may chooſe any two or three of them for that end. After two days John Craig reports, that the Regent was well pleaſed, they had given him the choice, and in his opinion Androw Melvin, George hay and Alexander arbuht not were meet: yet craving the advice of the aſſembly herein, that thereafter he may reſolve with the Counſell. Three were ſent again to know the Regents will concerning Andrew melvin & George hay: and … as he would appoint the Modefiers of the Miniſters ſtipend… to conveen for ordering the Roles. They report, he was pleaſed with theſe two, and had appointed the Modefiers to conveen. 4. In Seſſion 13, the heads of the Policy of the Church were read publickly, and agreed upon, except that head De Diaconatu; as alſo that they shall be preſented unto the Regent, as agreed upon, as ſaid is: without prejudice of further reaſoning. So James Lowſon, Rob. Pont, David Lindſay and the Clerk of the Aſſembly are ordered to put them in mund… according to the originall; and John Duncanſon, David …rguſon and John Erskine of Dun…are appointed to reviſe them; and being found, conform …nto the originall, the firſt three are ordered to preſent them with a Supplication in name of the Aſſembly. And if the Regent will crave conference upon theſe heads, the Aſſembly nameth Patrick adamſon, John Erskin of Dun, John Craig, John Row, Alexander arbuthnot, Andrew meluin, James Lowſon, Ro. pont, David Lindſay, An. Hay, Geo. Hay and John Duncanſon to wait upon the Conference, when the Regent shall advertiſe.