Generall demands concerning the late covenant propounded by the ministers and professors of divinitie in Aberdene, to some reverend brethren, who came thither to recommend the late covenant to them, and to those who are committed to their charge. Together with the answers of those reverend brethren to the said demands. As also the replyes of the foresaid ministers and professors to their answers.

GENERALL DEMANDS CONCERNING THE LATE COVENANT; Together with Answers to them, and Replies to those Answers.

THE FIRST DEMAND.

BY what power, or warrant, these our Reverend Bretheren can sute of us, or of our people, subscription to this late Covenant; not being sent by his Majestie, or by the Lords of Coun∣cell, nor by any Nationall Synod of this King∣dome, nor by any Judicatorie established in it? And, How they can enforce upon us, or upon our people, who are no wayes subject unto them, their interpretation of the articles of the negative confession? In respect whereof, as also in respect of that band of mutuall defence against all persons whatsoever, this late Covenant is substantially different from that which was subscribed by the King and his subjects, Anno 1580. and 1581.

ANSWER.

WE are not come hither to usurpe the authoritie of any civill or spirituall judicatorie, or to enforce upon our reverend Brethren, and the people committed to their charge, the subscription of the late Covenant, or the interpretation of the Articles of that Confession which is called negative, or whatsoever else of that kinde: but are sent to represent unto them, in all humilitie, the present case and condition of this kirk and kingdome; crying for help at their hands also: and, in brotherly love, to exhort and in∣treat, that they will be pleased to contribute their best ende∣vours, for extinguishing the common combustion, which by joyning with almost the whole kirk and kingdome in the late Covenant, we trust they may lawfully do, without prejudice to the Kings Majestie, or to any lawfull judicatorie, or to that Confession of faith above mentioned: Since the sound inter∣pretation and application thereof, to the errours of our times, can make no substantiall change, and the band of mutuall defence, wherein wee oblige our selves, To defend the true religion, and the Kings Majesties person, and authoritie, a∣gainst all persons whatsoever, is joyned, at first, with the Confession of faith. Like as his Majesties Commissioner objecting, That our Covenant was suspect to be an unlawfull combination against Authoritie, and to be the main hinde∣rance of obtaining our desires, hath accepted, and was well pleased with our Declaration; bearing, That we have solemn∣ly sworn, to the uttermost of our power, with our means and lives, to stand to the defence of the Kings majestie as of Gods Vicegerent, set over us, for the maintenance of Religion, and ministration of Justice.

REPLY.

WE have, Reverend Brethren, sufficiently considered and examined your answers to our Demands, by which we expected full satisfaction to all our scruples and doubts concerning the late Covenant: But truly, in mo∣desty and brotherly love, we tell you, that your answers (whatsoever you think of them your selves) have not given us that satisfaction which we expected. We know that some who rashly condemne every thing which is said or written contrarie to the cause which they maintain, will boldly say of us, that we have closed our eyes against a clear and ingyring light: But first, we say with JOB, Our wit∣nesse is in heaven, and our record is on high. That Lord who only seeth the secrets of hearts, knoweth, that we love his truth, and are ready, so soon as it shall be shown unto us, to embrace and professe it before the world. Next, we appeal to the consciences of all impartiall readers, who shall have occasion to weigh and consider maturely the weight of our arguments, and of these answeres which it hath pleased you to give us: wishing them, yea, most humbly and earnestly intreating them, to judge both of your writings and ours without prejudice, or any partiall respect. Yea, we are con∣fident, that ye also, of whose love to the truth of GOD we are perswaded, will after better advisement, and more ma∣ture consideration of the matters debated, acknowledge that we are not against the truth, but for it. The Lord o∣pen your eyes, that you may clearly see that truth for which we stand.

WE objected to you, Reverend Brethren, that you had not a calling to urge us to the subscription of the late Covenant, from any acknowledged authoritie, or law∣full Judicatorie established in this Church or Kingdome: to which objection ye answere not here particularly, as we ex∣pected.

And whereas you say, That you are come to exhort us, and our people, in all humility, to joyn with you; How is it, that without our consent, and against our will, not ha∣ving lawfull authority, which you seem here not to acclaime to your selves, you have publickly preached to our people, within our Congregation? which is a thing repugnant to those places of Scripture, in the which the Spirit of God recommendeth to Elders, or Pastors, the care of those flocks, over which the holy Ghost hath made them over-seers, Acts 20.28. 1 Pet. 5.2. as also telleth us, That the Pastors whom the flock must know, and to whom they must submit them∣selves, do watch over the souls of that flock, and must give ac∣count for them, 1. Thessal. 5.12. Hebr. 13.17. It is also contrarie to the laws of the Christian Church in all ages. For by the ancient Canons, Pastors are commanded to con∣taine themselves within the limits of their own charge; and not to presume to exercise Pastorall office in another Pa∣stors Diocesse, or Parioch, without leave: As also, they for∣bid Pastors to receive to divine service any man of another Parioch, that commeth in contempt of his own Pastor. Con∣cil. Nicen. 1. Oecum. 1. Can. 16 Concil. 2. Oecum. Constan∣tinop. Can. 2. Concil. Carthag. 2 Can. 11. Concil. Carthag. 3. Can. 20. Concil. Chalced. Oecum. 4. Can. 13. Concil. Nicen. 2. Can. 10. Concil. Tribur. Can. 28. Concil. Nan∣net. Cap. 1. & 2. ¶ 2. We did not without reason say, That you, and others of your confederation, enforce your inter∣pretation of the Negative confession upon others; seeing we hear, that some Pastors and Prelates are forced to flee to for∣raigne countreys, for fear of their lives, because they have refused the said interpretation; and those who have stayed in the countrey, dare scarcely appear in the high wayes, or streets; and are threatned, That their stipends shall not be payed unto them, untill they subscribe your Covenant. ¶ 3. Whereas you do in brotherly love exhort, and entreat us to contribute our best endeavours, for extinguishing the common combustion; we praising God for your pious zeal, and for the lovingnesse and modesty of your speeches,

(wherein by Gods help we shall labour to keep correspon∣dence with you; that both we and you may shew our selves to have learned of Christ, Meeknesse, and lowlinesse of heart) we most willingly promise to do so, by all means which our consciences will permit us to use; as also to joyn our most humble and hearty prayers with yours, That it may please God in this dangerous exigent, To do good in his good pleasure to our Sion, and to build up the wals of our Ierusalem. ¶ 4. We may justly say, That this new Covenant is substantially different from the old, which was made An∣no 1581. in respect it not only containeth that old covenant, or confession, which was allowed by two generall assemblies, but also your interpretation of it, which, as yet, hath no such authority, or approbation. ¶ 5. No band of mutu∣all defence, against all persons whatsoever, is expressed in the Covenant made 1581. And although it were, yet the case is very unlike: For subjects may make such a Covenant of mutuall defence by armes, with the consent of the King, who only under God, hath the power of armes, or of the sword, in this kingdome. But they who made this late Covenant, had not his consent, as that former or old Covenant had: which is a thing so evident, that no man can call it in que∣stion. ¶ 6. As for that which you affirm here, That my Lord Commissioner his Grace was well satisfied with your de∣claration; it becommeth not us to pry narrowly into his Graces doings: but truly we have more than reason to pry most narrowly into the words of a Covenant, which is of∣fered unto us, to be sworn, and subscribed, left we abuse, and prophane the sacred name of God, and tye our selves to the doing of any thing which is displeasing unto him. Last of all; whereas ye desire us to joyn our selves to you, and to the rest of your confederacie, who are (as you af∣firm) almost the whole Church and Kingdome: Truly we can∣not but reverence such a multitude of our reverend bre∣thren▪ and dear countrey-men, and are ready to be follow∣ers of them, in so far as they are followers of Christ: But nei∣ther can we do any thing against the truth, neither can we

attribute so much authoritie to their multitude, as other∣wise we would, in respect there hath been so much dealing for subscriptions, in all quarters of this Kingdome, and so many have been threatned, to give their consent, as we are most credibly informed.

THE II. DEMAND.

WHether or no we ought to subscribe the foresaid covenant, seeing all covenants of mutuall defence, by force of armes, made amongst subjects of any degree, up∣on whatsoever colour or pretence, without the Kings Ma∣jestie or his Successours privitie and consent, are expresly forbidden by King JAMES of blessed memorie, and the three Estates of this Kingdome, in the parliament holden at Linlithgow, Anno. 1585?

ANSVVER.

THe act of Parliament forbiddeth in the first part, leagues and bands of maintenance privily made, such as are called bands of Manrent, as the act in Queen Maries time, to which it hath relation, doth bear. And in the second part, only such, as tend to the publick disturbance of the peace of the Realme by moving sedition. But no act of Parliament doth discharge, nor can any just law forbid, Conventions, or Covenants in the generall; or such Covenants in speciall as are made with God, and amongst our selves; not for any mans particular, but for the common benefit of all; not to move sedition, but to perserve peace, & to prevent trouble: which by all probability had been to many, before this time, too sensible, if this course had not been taken. Conventions and Covenants (in the judgement of Jurisconsults) are to be esteemed and judged of, according

to their diverse ends, good or bad: which made King James of happie memorie to take it for an undoubted maxime, That pro aris & focis, & pro patre patriae, the whole body of the Common-wealth should stirre at once: not any more as di∣vided members, but as one consolidate lump.

REPLY.

IN that second part of that act of Parliament, holden at Linlithgow, Anno 1585. are forbidden, All leagues or bands of mutuall defence, which are made without the pri∣vitie and consent of the King, under the pain to be holden and execute as movers of sedition and unquietnesse, &c. Where∣fore we can no wayes think, that any bands or leagues of mutuall defence, by force of armes, are there permitted, (that is, not forbidden) seeing first the words of the act are so generall: for in it are discharged All bands made amongst subjects of any degree, upon any colour whatsoever, without his Highn••sse, or his Successours privitie and consent had and obtained thereunto. Next, all such bands are declared to be seditious, and perturbative of the publick peace of the Realme: or, which is all one, are appointed to bee estee∣med so. And therefore, we cannot see how any bands of that kinde can be excepted, as if they were not seditious. 2. We doubt not, but the late Covenant, being considered according to the main intention of those pious and gene∣rous Gentlemen, Barons, and others our dear countrey∣men, who made it, especially our reverend brethren of the holy ministery, is a Covenant made with God, and proceeding from a zealous respect to Gods glory, and to the preservation of the puritie of the Gospel in this Church and Kingdome: But we cannot finde a warrant in our consciences to grant, That such Covenants, in so farre as they import mutuall defence, against all persons whats∣ever, none being excepted, no, not the King, (as it seem∣eth unto us, by the words of your Covenant, but far more by

the words of your late Protestation, the 28 of Iune; where∣in you promise mutuall defence against all externall or in∣ternall invasion, menaced in his Majesties last Proclamation) are not forbidden by any band, nor justly yet can be forbid∣den. For first, we have alreadie shown, That they are for∣bidden in the foresaid act of Parliament, Anno 1585. 2. No warfare; and consequently, no covenant, importing war∣fare, is lawfull, without just Authoritie; which, we are per∣swaded, is onely in the supreme Magistrate, and in those who have power and imployment from him, to take armes: yea, so farre as we know, all moderate men, who duely respect Authority, will say, That it is so in all Kingdomes, and Monarchies, properly so called: (of which nature is this his Majesties most ancient Kingdome) And, that it is al∣together unlawfull to subjects in such Kingdomes, to take armes against their Prince. For which cause, that famous and most learned Doctour Rivetus, in a late Treatise called Iesuita vapulans, speaking of the judgment of Buchanan, and others, who taught, That subjects might take armes against their Prince, in extraordinary cases, and extreme dangers of the Religion, and Common-wealth; professeth first, That he, and all other Protestants, condemne such doctrine. Secondly, That this errour did proceed from a mistaking of the government of the Scotish Kingdome, as if it were not truely and properly Monarchicall. Thirdly, That the rashnesse of those writers, is to be ascribed partly to the hard and perilous times of persecution, wherein they lived, and partly, Scotorum praefervido ingenis, & ad audendum prompto. Thus he writeth in the 13. Chap. of the said book, Pag. 274. and 275. answering to the Recrimination of a Iesuit, who had affirmed, That Buchanan, Knox, and Good∣man, had written as boldly for the rebellion of Subjects against Princes, as any of their order at any time had done. A thing much to be noted by us at this time, lest we any more give that advantage to Iesuites, to make Apologie for their rebellious doctrines and practises. 3. Not only ma∣king of Covenants, but also all other actions, are to be

esteemed and judged of, first, by the equitie of the subject, and matter; then, by the end: for if the mat∣ter pactioned (that is, which the parties mutually do promise) be justly forbidden, by a lawfull Authoritie, and consequently be unlawfull in it self; then the good∣nesse of the end, or project, cannot make the paction, or Covenant, to be good, or lawfull.

THE III. DEMAND.

IF it be alledged, That in extreme and most dangerous cases, such acts of Parliament may be contraveened; Quae∣ritur, Whether there be now such extreme case, seeing we have his Majestie, in his former Proclamations, avow∣ing, protesting, declaring, and in this last Proclamation taking God to witnesse, that he never intended any in∣novation of Religion; and also seeing he hath removed al∣readie all that which made men fear novations, to wit, Service book, book of Canons, and the alledged exor∣bitancie of the new high Commission.

ANSVVER.

IF the removing of the Service book, book of Canons, and the limitation of the vast power of the high Commission, containing so much superstition, and tyranny of Prelates, be a benefit to this Kirk and Kingdome, we ought, under God, to ascribe the same to the peaceable meetings, humble supplicati∣ons, and religious covenanting of the subjects; which have given information to his Majestie, and have procured from his justice and goodnesse so great favour, as is thankfully acknow∣ledged in the last Protestation: which doth also expresse the many particulars, wherein his Majesties late Proclamation

is not satisfactorie. And therefore the Lords of his Majesties privie Councel, upon the supplication and complaint of his Lieges, were moved to rescind the act of the Approbation of the foresaid Proclamation, and to rend the subscribed Missive, which was to be sent therewith to his Majestie. We are confi∣dent, that the Declaration wherewith his Majesties Com∣missioner was so well pleased, will also give satisfaction to our reverend brethren; and that they will not think it convenient for them to give further approbation to the Proclamation, than the Councel hath done, although all of us ought, with thankfulnesse, to acknowledge his Majesties benignitie.

REPLY.

WE will not here dispute what hath been the maine or principall cause moving his sacred Majesty to discharge the Service booke, and other things which occasio∣ned the present perturbation of our Church; nor yet whe∣ther or not his Majesties proclamation may give full satis∣faction to all the feares and doubts of his subjects. For our selves, we professe, that upon his Majesties declaration, and gracious promise contained in his Majesties last proclamati∣on, we beleeve, first, That his Majesty never intended inno∣vation in religion: Secondly, That he will maintain the true Protestant religion, all the dayes of his life: which we pray God to continue long. Thirdly, That all acts made in favours of the Service boook, &c. are discharged. Fourthly, That he will never urge the receiving of the Service book, Book of Canons, &c. nor any other thing of that nature, but by such a fair and legall way, as shall satisfie all his subjects. And thence we do collect, that which we affirmed before, to wit, That there is no such extraordinary or extreme case, as might give occasion to subjects to make such a band, as is directly for∣bidden by the foresaid act of parliament, and to contraveen it in such a manner, as may seeme to import a resisting of Au∣thority by force of armes.

THE IIII. DEMAND.

COncerning that interpretation of the negative confessi∣on, which is urged upon us, and wherein the articles of Pearth, and Episcopacie, are declared to be abjured, as well as all the points of Poperie, which are therein expresly and distinctly mentioned; Quaeritur, Who are the interpre∣ters of that confession? that is, Whether all the subscribers, or only those Ministers conveened in Edinburgh, in the end of February, who set it down? If all the subscribers; then what reason have we to receive an interpretation of that confession from la••cks, ignorant people, and children? If only those Ministers conveened then in Edinburgh; then seeing no man should take an honour to himself, but he who is called of God, as Aaron, Heb. 5.4. what power and au∣thority had they over their brethren, to give out a judici∣all interpretation of these articles of faith, and to inforce their interpretation of these articles upon them?

ANSWER.

THe subscribers are here mis-interpreted in two points, very materiall: One is, that they presume upon power, or au∣thority, which they have to give out a judicial interpretation of the articles of the confession, and to enforce the same upon o∣thers: whereas they only intended to make known their own meaning, according to the minde of our Reformers; and in cha∣rity to propound and recommend the same to others, who might be made willing to embrace it: Although it be true also, that very great numbers of Ministers were conveened, and testified their consent as that time: And although the private judgment of those who are called laicks, ought not to be mis-regarded. For it is confessed, That an interpretation, which is private ratione

personae, may be more than private, ratione medii. The other, which being observed, will answer diverse of the following de∣mands, That the articles of Pearth, and of Episcopall govern∣ment, are declared to be abjured, as points of Poperie, or as Po∣pish novations: where as the words of the Covenant put a dif∣ference betwixt two sorts of novations: one is of such as are already introduced in the worship of God, and concerning those, whatsoever be the judgement of the subscribers, which to every one is left free, by the words of the Covenant, they are onely bound to forbear the practise of them, by reason of the present exigence of the Kirk, till they be tried, and allowed in a free Generall assembly. The other sort is of such novations, as are particularly supplicated against, and complained upon; as the Service book, and Canons, &c. which are abjured, as contai∣ning points of Poperie. And this we avouch, from our certain knowledge, to be the true meaning of the controverted words of the Covenant. And therefore humbly intreat, That no man any more, upon this scruple, with-hold his testimony.

REPLY.

AS for the first of these two mistakings: If you have not given out that interpretation of the negative confession judicially, but only have made known your own meaning, ac∣cording to the minde of the Reformers, as you alledge; then, first, your interpretation hath no obligatory power over others; and consequently you ought not to obtrude your in∣terpretation upon us, more then we doe our interpretation thereof upon you. Neither ought any man to be molested, or threatned, for not receiving your interpretation; chiefly seeing all who are of your confederation have so solemnly vowed, and promised, to be good examples to others of all godlinesse, sobernesse, and righteousnesse, and of every duety which you owe to God and man. Secondly, As for the minde or judgement of our Reformers, we know no evidence of it, having publick authority to oblige the subjects of this

Kingdome, except that which is expressed in our nationall confession of faith, ratified in Parliament twenty years be∣fore the negative confession was penned: wherein we finde no warrant or ground of such interpretation as you bring. Thirdly, The interpretation of the negative confession, set down in your covenant, as it is not publick, ratione personae, so also not ratione medii: for it hath no warrant, for ought we could ever perceive, either from the word of God, or from the testimony of the ancient Church, or from the con∣sent of other reformed Churches, or from our nationall con∣fession, registrated in Parliament. As for the second mista∣king, or mis-interpretation of the words of the late covenant, first, we marvell, that a generall Covenant appointed to be subscribed by all, learned and unlearned, should have been set down by you in such ambiguous termes. For, truly, all men here, even the most judicious, do so take your words, as if the articles of Pearth were in them abjured. 2. We have again more attentively examined the words of the late Co∣venant, and do evidently perceive by them, That in the said Covenant, the articles of Pearth, and Episcopacie, are con∣demned, and abjured, as erroneous, and damnable corrupti∣ons. For where you professe, and before God, and his angels, and the world, solemnly declare, That you shall labour, by all means lawfull, to recover the libertie, and puritie of the Gos∣pel, as it was established and professed before the foresaid nova∣tions: We ask you, what is that period of time, to which your words have reference, when you promise to labour, to recover the puritie and libertie of the Gospel, as it was professed and established before the foresaid novati∣tions? If you mean that period of time, when the Service book, and Book of Canons were urged upon you; to wit, the last year by-past in Summer; then you acknowledge, That all that time you enjoyed the puritie and libertie of the Gos∣pel; and consequently, That you yet enjoy it; for no new thing hath since that time been publickly received, and pra∣ctised in this Church. If you mean (as undoubtedly we think

you do) the time praeceding the bringing in of Episcopacie, and the acts of Pearth; then you comprehend both Episcopa∣cie and the acts of Pearth under these novations: for the re∣moving whereof, you promise to labour, according to your power: and consequently do dis-allow and condemne them, even before they be tried in a free assembly, and before they be heard who maintain and approve them as lawfull. 3. We may evidently demonstrate this, argumento ad hominem, as we say in the schools: For, those rites and ceremonies, which are abjured in the negative confession, are also abjured in your late Covenant; which, as you say, is all one with the negative confession, or with the Covenant made 1581. But the rites and ceremonies which were concluded in Pearth assembly, are abjured, as you say, in the Covenant made 1581. and therefore they are also abjured in this your late Cove∣nant. The first proposition is evident: For in your late Cove∣nant, speaking of the oath contained in that old Covenant, which was made Anno 1581. you professe, That the present and succeeding generations in this land, are bound to keep the foresaid nationall oath, as you call it, and subscription, unvio∣lable. The second proposition also cannot be denied by you: For, these twenty years by-past, you have accused those who conformed themselves to the ordinances of Pearth, of perjurie; and that because they had violated the oath made Anno 1581. in the which those articles (as you alledge) were abjured. But perhaps you will say to us, That we think those things not to be abjured in that oath made Anno 1581. and therefore we may swear, and subscribe your late Cove∣nant; and, notwithstanding of our oath and subscription, be tied only to the forbearance of the practice of Pearth arti∣cles for a time. We answer, first; The words of an oath should be clear, and plain: or, if they be any wayes ambi∣guous, the true sense of them should be so declared, and ma∣nifested, that all may know it. 2 An oath is to be given, ac∣cording to the minde and judgement of him that requireth it. And therefore, seeing you who require this oath of us, think the rites or ceremonies concluded at Pearth to be

abjured in that oath made Anno 1581. how can we swear and subscribe your Covenant, which reneweth the foresaid oath, and bindeth us to it? 3 If we should swear, and subscribe the negative confession, as it is included in your covenant; then ye, who think the articles of Pearth to be abjured, and condemn∣ed in the negative confession, will think us tied, by our own personall oath, to condemn the articles of Pearth. 4 Seeing this covenant was penned by you, who have hitherto not confor∣med your selves to Pearth assembly, and have opposed Episcopa∣cie, and seeing you all condemn Episcopacie, as if it were that popish, or wicked Hierarchie, mentioned in the negative con∣fession; as also esteem the things concluded in Pearth assembly, to be idolatrous, or superstitious; how can we think, that you in your solemn vow made to God, for reformation of this Church, and resisting, in times to come, the novations and cor∣ruptions of it, have passed by these things, which are the only novations already introduced by authority, and from which, as you affirm, the Church hath so great need to be purged: chiefly, seeing ye think them as popish, superstitious, and ido∣latrous, as ye do these other novations, which are not as yet introduced. 5 If in all your supplications, plaints, and protesta∣tions, ye have only sought the removing and discharging of the Service book. Book of canons, and the new high commission, not complaining of any other novations; and seeing his Majestie hath discharged the first two, and hath promised to rectifie the third, or last of them; Then, what reason have ye to think, that his Majestie hath not satisfied your supplications? For, all the novations, upon which you complained, are removed by his Majestie, and ye have his princely promise, That no further shall be urged upon us, but by such a fair and legall way, as may satisfie all his subjects. 6 As for that which your Covenant, by your own confession, requireth of us, to wit, The forbearance, and abstinence, for a time, from the practising the articles of Pearth; We professe sincerely, and in the sight of God, That our c••nscience will not suffer us to subscribe that part of your Covenant; and that because laws being standing for them, and our lawfull superiours requi∣ring

obedience from us, by practising them, to swear forbear∣ance of the practise of them, is to swear disobedience, and, to wrong their authority. 7 How can we, with a good Consci∣ence, abstaine presently from private baptisme, and private communion, being required thereunto by sick persons, and those parents whose children cannot be carried to the Church commodiously with their lives; seeing we think it a thing very unlawfull, in such cases, to refuse to administrate those Sacraments in private houses? Not that we think, that God hath tyed himself, or his grace, to the Sacraments; but be∣cause he hath tyed us unto them, by his precept: and, not to use the means appointed by God, when our people, or their children stand in need of them, is a contempt of the means, and a tempting of God.

THE V. DEMAND.

WHether or no we can sincerely, and with a good conscience, subscribe the negative confession, as it is expounded and interpreted by the contrivers or authors of the late Covenant, seeing it maketh a perpetuall law con∣cerning the externall rites of the Church, which God hath not made, as if these rites were unchangeable? And how they who both swear the positive confession, and the ne∣gative, thus interpreted, can eschew contradiction, seeing the positive confession, Chap. 21. evidently declareth, That these rites are changeable, according to the exigencie of time; and consequently, that no perpetuall law may or ought to be made concerning them? Likewise we would know how it can stand with truth to abjure all these rites, as Popish, which are used in the Church, without divine institution, expressed in Gods word; seeing even these who urge the Covenant, practise some ceremonies which are not mentioned in Gods word; as the celebration of mar∣riage

before the Church, in the beginning, or at the end of divine service, with all the particulars of it, and the stipula∣tion of Fathers and God-fathers, for the childe in baptisme, which are not meer circumstances, as they use to distinguish, but also ceremonies, properly so called?

ANSWER.

THe late Covenant maketh not a perpetuall law concerning the externall rites of the kirke, as if they were unchange∣able: but, as we have said before, onely bindeth us, for a time, to forbear the practise of innovations already introduced, and doth not determine whether they ought to be changed, or not. 2. According to this true interpretation, all appearance of con∣tradiction betwixt the confession of faith insert in the act of Parliament, and the latter confession, is removed, beside that the article 21. of the confession of faith, giveth power to the Kirke, in matters of externall policie, and order of the worship of God, is expounded in the first booke of Discipline, distingui∣shing between things necessary to be observed in every Kirke, and things variable in particular congregations. 3. We declare again, That the Covenant doth not abjure Pearth articles, as Popish, and thinketh not time now to dispute of significant cere∣monies, or other holy rites, and whether the two particulars na∣med be ceremonies, or not: since the confession condescended up∣on on both sides, abjureth rites which are added without the word of God.

REPLY.

FIrst, VVe have already told you, That we cannot subscribe your oath of forbearance of the practise of the articles al∣ready introduced, without violation of authority, and of wronging our own consciences, who think private baptisme and communion, not to be indifferent, but also necessary, in some cases; not indeed, necessitate medii, as if Gods grace were tyed to the externall means, but, as we say in the

schools, necessitate praecepti, because we are commanded to use these means. 2. This late Covenant leadeth and bindeth us to the old Covenant, made 1581. and that old Covenant bindeth us perpetually to that discipline which was then; that is, (as ye alledge) to the whole policie of the Church, comprehending all the externall rites of it: and so, à primo ad ultimum, this late Covenant bindeth us to the whole po∣licie of the Church, which was then; and consequently maketh a perpetuall law, concerning externall rites of the Church, as if they were unchangeable. All parts of this ar∣gument are sure: For by your late Covenant, you professe your selves bound, to keep the foresaid nationall oath (as you call it) inviolable: And that oath, or Covenant, bindeth us, to continue in the obedience not onely of the doctrine, but also of the discipline of this Kirke. Where by the discipline of the Kirke, ye understand (as ye have in all your writings pro∣fessed, especially of late, in your booke entituled, A dispute against the English Popish ceremonies. Part 4. Chap. 8. Sect. 6.) the whole externall policie of the Church, as it was at that time; to wit, Anno 1581. Yea, you confesse, That no other thing can be understood by the discipline of the Kirke, but that which we have said already; and consequently we shall be tyed by that oath which you require of us, to admit and practise no other rites and ceremonies, but such as were then received in our Church. We can no wayes passe by this, seeing ever since the assembly of Pearth, in your publick ser∣mons, and printed books, ye have most vehemently accused us of perjurie, as violating the oath, or covenant, made An∣no 1581. and that in respect we have admitted into the Church, some rites, or ceremonies, which were not in it the foresaid year of God. Is not this to make a perpetuall law, concerning the externall rites of the Church, as if they were unchangeable, and to abjure the practice of all rites intro∣duced in the Church since that time; and consequently the practise of the articles of Pearth, and that not for a time one∣ly, but for ever? 3. Seeing the negative confession, according to your minde, and conception of it, maketh the whole ex∣ternall

policie of the Church, as it was Anno 1581. to be unchangeable: and on the contrary, the confession insert into the acts of Parliament, declareth, That the rites belonging to the externall policie of the Church, are changeable; how can you escape a contradiction, if ye receive both these con∣fessions? 4. Whereas by that distinction mentioned in your answer, of things necessary to be observed, and of things va∣riable in particular congregations, ye insinuate that by the keeping of the discipline of the Kirke as it was then, to which we are bound in the old Covenant, ye understand the obser∣vation of those things which are necessary to be observed in every kirke, and not of things variable in particular congre∣gations: We ask, Into which of the members of this distin∣ction ye refer Episcopacie, and the articles of Pearth? That is, Whether they must necessarily be omitted in all Churches, and at all times, or not? If ye say, that they must be necessari∣ly omitted, and that the negative confession, confirmed with an oath, doth tye us to the omission of them; then both ye would make us to swear, and subscribe against our conscien∣ces, (for we are perswaded, That these things are lawfull) as also ye would make us to abjure Episcopacie, and the arti∣cles of Pearth, in perpetuum; which is flatly contrary to your declaration in your answers, 1.5. &c. If you say on the other part, That we are not tyed by the negative confession, to the omission of these things; then, why have ye, in all your writings against us, exprobrate to us, perjurie, in violating of the oath contained in the negative confession? 5. We would gladly have known your minde, concerning the law∣fulnesse of such rites as are not of divine institution, expres∣sed in Gods word. For we ingenously professe, That none of your answers (which hitherto we have seen) to the in∣stances, or examples brought by us in our fift Demand of rites used by your selves, in your Churches, as lawfull, with∣out divine institution, (to which we could adde many moe) do give us any satisfaction: nor yet, as we think, can give satisfaction to any indifferent man. As for example; Is bles∣sing of marriages a meer circumstance? Who can be so im∣pudent,

as to say so? Or, if it be a ceremonie, what precept or practise have ye of it in Gods whole word? if it be al∣ledged. That we have a warrant from that blessing pro∣nounced, Gen 1.28. upon m••n and woman, after their cre∣ation; we ask, By what consequence can that solemnity of blessing of marriages used in our Churches, with all the cere∣monies of it, be drawn from that effectuall and operative blessing of our first parents, or rather of whole mankinde? Is there here an institution of a perpetuall observance, or rite, to be used in the Church, more than in the 22. verse of the same chapter, when God blessed the fowls, and fishes, and said, Be fruitfull, and multiple, and fill the waters in the seas? &c. If again it be answered, That pastorall benediction, is mentioned in Scripture▪ first, VVhat is that to blessing of marriages? And secondly, VVhy are not all other pactions▪ as well as marriages, blessed in the Church; chiefly, seeing ma∣trimoniall blessing hath been, and is, abused in the Romane Church, which holdeth, That marriage is a sacrament; and consequently, matrimoniall benediction ought, as it would seem, to be secluded from the Church, rather than other blessings?

THE VI. DEMAND.

WHether or no it be fit to subscribe such an interpreta∣tion, as in matters of lawfulnesse, and unlawfulnesse; and consequently in matters of faith, contradicteth the judge∣ment of so many Divines, most famous, of the reformed Church, both ancient and modern, (who did, and do hold, that these rites and ordinances brought into this Church by the assembly of Pearth, are in their own nature lawfull, and such as ought not to make a stir in the Church of God) and al∣so condemneth the venerable practise of the ancient Church, and the most eminent lights of it, even in those purest times, unto which we appeal against the Papists, in our disputes.

ANSWER.

WE trust, That no sound Divine, ancient or modern, would in this case deny the expedience of the forbearance of the practise of Pearth articles. And further than this, nothing at this time is required.

REPLY.

YOur silence, in not answering that which we affirmed, concerning the judgement of Divines, ancient and mo∣derne, of the reformed Church, anent the lawfulnesse of the rites and ordinances, which were received in our Church, by the ordinance of the assembly of Pearth; as also concerning the judgement and practise of the ancient Church; doth make us think, that ye acknowledge the truth of that which we affirmed there. 2. VVe have already shown, That the oath which ye require of us, importeth more than the forbearance of the practice of Pearth articles, for a time. 3. The forbearance of some of them, seemeth to us, to be meerly unlawfull, and contrary to that pastorall duty we owe to our flock. 4. The forbearance of any of them, considered with a relation to the authority enjoyning them, in our judgement, is plain disobedience.

THE VII. DEMAND.

WHether it be agreeable to charity or piety, to re∣quire us to abjure these rites, as Popish; which in the sincerity of our hearts, following the light of our con∣science, (whereof we take God to witnesse) we have hi∣therto

practised, as lawfull, and laudably following the same light, do yet practise them? But suppose this might be required of us by any; Quaeritur, Whether or no it becom∣eth them so peremptorily, and upon such a suddenty, to urge us to this, who these by-gone twenty years, have desired ear∣nestly to enjoy the freedome of their consciences in their Ministerie, even in denying obedience to these things, and standing laws for them; and when they were urged to obe∣dience did so often protest, and earnestly request, That they might have a time, to be well enformed, and maturely advi∣sed of the matter, which to the most part of them was most graciously granted? Let them▪ therefore, look to that natu∣rall Maxime, Quod tibi fieri non vis, alteri ne feceris: and to our Saviours precept of the same sense, and almost of the same words, Mat. 7. vers. 12.

ANSWER.

WE hope, that such a forbearance of the practise, will prejudge the liberty of no mans conscience.

REPLY.

IT would much prejudge our consciences, to swear and subscribe the negative confession, taking it according to your conception and meaning, who require our oath. 2 How can we swear, to labour, by all means lawfull (as ye re∣quire in your covenant) to expell those things, whereof we hold some to be necessary, and all the rest, to be lawfull, and laudable?

THE VIII. DEMAND.

WHether it be fitting to swear to defend the Kings Person and Authoritie, with this limitation, In the defence and preservation of the true Religion, laws, and liberties of this Kingdome? As if their persons ought not to be defen∣ded against all enemies, although as yet they embraced not the truth: or having before embraced it, yet have fallen from it: or as if their royall Authority were not to be acknowledg∣ed, although commanding things unlawfull; and as if we were not subject thereto, in yeelding to suffer under them, when we give not active obedience to them?

ANSWER.

1. THe answer of the first Demand, may give satisfaction here. 2. The Specification of the defending the Kings Person and Authority, in the defence of the true religion, laws, and liberties of the Kingdome, is warranted by the Confession ratified in Parliament, by other acts of Parliament, by the other Confession, and by the generall band joyned with it. 3 No man will with-hold his Subscription from the Covenant, because it doth not, as it intendeth not to expresse every duty we owe to the Kings Majestie, as if the not naming, were a denying of the duty.

REPLY.

WHat ye have replyed in your Answer to our first Demand, we have examined, in our confutation of your Answer. 2. If ye consider well all the circumstances

of the making of your Covenant, ye will finde that it had not been amisse, at this time, to have expressed more fully the loyaltie of your intentions, to maintain the Kings per∣son, and honour. Next, it is necessary to expresse it yet more fully, for our cause, whom ye require to swear and subscribe your Covenant; lest we do any thing, in this matter, with a doubting conscience, (which is a grievous sin) that is, Doubt∣ing whether or no we are tyed by our oath to maintain the Kings authority, only in so far, as it is employed in the defence of the foresaid true Religion: or, at least, as it is not employ∣ed against it. For it seemeth to us unlawfull, to swear the maintenance of the Kings authoritie, with this limitation pre∣cisely. And if ye be of a contrary minde, we are most willing to confer with you of this point.

THE IX. DEMAND.

WHether or no we can sincerely swear to maintain the Authoritie, truely and properly monarchicall of the King; and withall swear also disobedience to these articles, which are authorized by his standing laws, and to maintain the meanest of his subjects against him, in their dis∣obedience of his laws, as yet standing in vigour concerning these things.

ANSWER.

1. THe answer to the first Demand, is usefull here also. 2. Forbearance of practise, for a time, in such a case, is rather obedience, than disobedience: for example, Kneeling was thought convenient, because all memorie of superstition was past; should it not therefore be forborn, because superstition, is now revived, and flagrant? They who practise, keep the letter of the law: but they who forbear, keep the life and reason thereof.

REPLY.

YOur Covenant requireth more of us, than the forbear∣ance of the practise of Pearth articles, as we have often times declared. 2 We have also shown, That the forbear∣ance of obedience to standing laws, without license of Supe∣riours, and contrary to their commandment, especially if it be done by deliberation, and if men tye themselves, by an oath, to do so, is manifest disobedience. 3 The article of Pearth, anent kneeling, was not grounded only, nor yet principally, upon that narrative which ye mention; but ra∣ther upon the conveniencie and decencie of the gesture of kneeling, in the receiving of the holy Sacrament: which reason doth yet continue; as also the other reason which ye mention, holdeth yet: for the body of the people of this Church were never papists; and consequently, have no memorie of popish superstition, as those who lived in time of reformation. 4 We cannot see nor conceive, how a vow and band of maintaining the meanest subject of this Kingdome, against all persons whatsoever; and consequently, against the King himself, as we have shown in our second Reply, in disobedience of his laws, can consist with that love, reverence, and subjection, which we owe to our King. Neither have ye brought any thing in your Answer, to satis∣fie us in this point. And, because ye alledge, as we hear, that ye are mistaken in this point, and do vindicate your selves, by those words of the Covenant, wherein ye pro∣mise to maintain the Kings authoritie; we pray you to ex∣presse your minde more fully, concerning it; and to show us, 1 What ye mean by maintaining the Kings authoritie, in that part of your Covenant, wherein ye expresse your loy∣all intention, To maintain the Kings person, and authoritie; and in speciall, Whether or no the maintaining of the Kings authoritie, be taken by you, as it excludeth all resisting of his Authoritie, by force of arms, even although he should

command things unlawfull, and contrarie to the truth? For so we think it should be taken: and that it should be so ta∣ken, we are readie to demonstrate. Neither can we swear it in any other sense. 2 Whether your promise of mutuall defence, In the same cause of maintaining the true Religion, and his Majesties authoritie, &c. ought to be understood, of the maintaining the Kings authoritie absolutely: that is, Whether he maintain the true Religion, or no? Or, on the contrarie; If it ought to be understood of the maintaining the Kings authoritie conditionally, in so far as he maintaineth the true Religion, and not any other wayes? If you say, that it is to be understood the first way, we assent to that part of your Covenant, and have no more scruple anent it, except that one which we mentioned in our Reply to your second An∣swer: to wit, That the words of your Protestation seem to import more; and, that your Paction, or Covenant, is made without the Kings privitie, and consent. If ye say, that it is to be understood the second way; then we continue urging our foresaid Demand: to wit, How a man can maintain the Kings authoritie, and withall maintain the meanest of his subjects in resisting his Authoritie? And how we can be said, to stand for the Kings honour, when we vow and pro∣mise, do to that which he himself professeth to be against his Honour; and which, in the common judgement of men, is thought to be so? The determination of this point, is more than necessarie, at this time: and therefore, let us in sinceritie and brotherly love, confer of it; that the con∣sciences of others who doubt of this, may receive satisfa∣ction.

THE X. DEMAND.

WHether or no we ought to swear to such a Cove∣nant, which taketh away from us all hope of a free assembly, or Parliament, to judge of the matter

presently debated? For how can these vote freely of any matter propounded to the decision and deliberation of the Church and Estate, who have already sworn to adhere to one part of the question? and how can those who dissent from them, submit themselves to their judgement, chiefly seeing they are possessours, and have laws Civill and Eccle∣siastick, standing as yet for them?

ANSWER.

WE perceive, that this tenth Demand, is made of the articles of Pearth; therefore we answer as before; That we promise only forbearance, which can prejudge no mans liberty in a generall assembly.

REPLY.

WE have shown, That your Covenant, and Oath, im∣porteth a manifest abjuration of the articles of Pearth: and therefore, the swearing of it doth manifestly prejudge the liberty of voting in a nationall assembly: For, how can they freely either reason in an assembly, concerning Episcopacie, and the articles of Pearth; or else, give their judgement, without prejudice, concerning them who have alreadie promised, sworn, and vowed, first, To adhere to the di∣scipline of the Kirke: that is, (according to your interpreta∣tion) to the whole externall policie of the Church, as it was 1581. 2 To labour, by all means lawfull, to remove, and expell, all those rites and ordinances, which have come into the Church since the foresaid year of God; that the Church may be restored to the liberty, and purity, which it then had. Whereby ye de∣clare, That the foresaid articles, and Episcopacie, are contrary to the liberty, and purity of the Church; and consequently, ye are tied by your oath, to vote against them, if ye be called to the intended assembly.

THE XI. DEMAND.

WHether our subscribing, together with our peo∣ple, to the confession of this nation, which is ratified and registrated in Parliament, Anno 1567. may give full satisfaction to all who doubt of the sincerity of our profession, if so be they have no farther ayme, but only to know and see our willingnesse, and constant resolution, to adhere to the religion presently professed, and to oppose all errours contrary to it, to our lives end? Now seeing we are willing to do this, as we take God to witnesse, we are; how are we hated, maligned, and traduced as enemies of the truth, only because our consciences do not suffer us to subscribe to that interpretation of the negative confession insert in the Covenant, (concerning which we can see no warrant of the truth of it, nor lawfull authority binding us to it) and to the politick, or rather military part of that Covenant, which is a thing without the compasse of our calling, and not belonging to that contending for the faith once delivered to the saints, of which S. Iude speaketh in his epistle.

ANSWER.

SInce no other mean could be found so effectuall, for holding out of Poperie, and forbearing of dangerous novations in religion, such as the Service book, and Canons, which as yet are only discharged, till in a fair and legall way they may be in∣troduced; and are by no word of the late Proclamation disal∣lowed: although the Service book, by the Proclamation, Fe∣bruary 19. be highly praised, as serving to edification, and to beat out all superstition: and nothing in this application is ab∣jured, but what was abjured in the former; why shall we for∣bear to use a mean so just, and so powerfull, for the preservation of the purity of religion?

REPLY.

HEre ye do not particularly answer to our Demand, and seem unwilling to give that testimonie of us, your bre∣thren, concerning our sincerity in professing of the Truth, which, all who know and judge unpartially of us, do think to be due to us. It is sufficiently known, what pains we take in disputing and writing against Papists, in confuting their errours in our pulpits, in leading processe against them, ac∣cording to the order of the Church, and in doing all things against Romish errours, which can be expected from the most zealous Professours of the Truth. If ye, or any other of our reverent brethren, doubt of the sinceritie of our profession, then pose us concerning any Article controverted, and we shall be most ready to declare our minde concerning it be∣fore all men, and give a sufficient proof to the world, that we have pried as narrowly into the mysteries of Romish errours, for refutation of them, as any of those who impiously, and uncharitably traduce us, as favourers of Poperie. 2. We have other means more effectuall, and lawfull, (whereas we think this your mean to be unlawfull) for holding out of Poperie: and in which we ought to confide more, than in all the pro∣mises and vows of men; yea, also, more than in all the united forces of all the subjects of this land: to wit, Diligent preach∣ing, and teaching of the word, frequent prayer to God, humbling of our selves before him, amendement of our lives and conversations, and arming our selves against our adver∣saries, by diligent searching of the Scriptures, and using all o∣ther means, whereby we may increase in the knowledge of the truth, and in ability, to defend it against the enemies of it. 3. The subjects of this Kingdome, at least a great part of them, either by their own inclination, or by the perswasion of others, have such a hard conceit of the Service book, and Ca∣nons, that if his Majesty use a faire and legall way of bringing them into this Church, especially such a way as may give sa∣tisfaction to all his subjects, in all appearance, we need not to fear the in bringing of them.

THE XII. DEMAND.

WHereas we heare of diverse disorders, and violent miscarriages of those who have subscribed the Co∣venant, against our brethren of the holy Ministerie, who con∣tinue in their obedience to the laws of the Church and King∣dome; which miscarriages being done without all forme of justice, or legall proceeding, are an exercising of revenge, by private authoritie, and consequently are forbidden in the sixt commandment: which is one of the reasons which moveth us, not to joyn our selves unto their society. We would glad∣ly therefore know of our reverent brethren, who have come hither to recommend the late Covenant unto us; First, Whe∣ther or no they do allow these disorders? 2. If they allow them, what reason have they so to do? And if they allow them not, how is it, that these disorders and miscarriages, are not publickly by them, and other Pastours of their confederacy, condemned, and sharply rebuked in their pulpits? Why are the actours of them not tryed and censured? And why do they delay to give out some publick declaration, either in print or writ, to this effect, being long since exhorted to do so?

ANSVVER.

1. HArdly can a zealous people assembled in a Kirk for the worship of God, be kept from tumult, when books, and a worship which they either know, or conceive to be popish, are suddenly, and imperiously obtruded upon them by the Leaders: & how far the keeping of the materiall kirks from the pollution of worship, belongeth to the people, and community of the faithful, should be considered. 2. Violence done in other places, and upon other occasions, we no more allow, than we doe approve the asper∣sions of perjurie, rebellion, &c. which some men do put upon us.

REPLY.

IT belongeth not to the people, or communitie of the faithfull, to contemne Authoritie, and the Lords Ser∣vice, done in his owne House, on his own day, so farre as to put violent hands on Prelates and Pastours, in time of Divine worship, while they are practising those things which are enjoyned by the King, and his Councell. Such disorders, and contemptuous carriages, doe not beseeme those whom Christ inviteth to come to him, and to learn of him, meeknesse, and lowlinesse of heart; chiefly, seeing there are many other wayes, whereby people may testifie their aversation of those books, and worship, which they conceive to be Popish. If it be a sinne in parents to provoke their children to wrath; much more is it a sinne in children to provoke their parents; especially Patrem Patriae, the common father of the countrey, so to wrath. 2. The keeping of Gods house from the pollution of worship, belongeth to those who are cloathed with lawfull authority. 3. We not onely asked of you, Whether or no ye did allow the miscar∣riages towards our brethren of the holy Ministerie, menti∣oned in our Demand? but also supposing that ye do not al∣low them, we asked, How is it that those disorders and miscar∣riages, are not publickly by you condemned, and rebuked? Why are the actours of them not tryed, and censured? And why do ye not give some publick document to the world of your aversation of such miscarriages? chiefly, seeing they are, as we have shown, a manifest transgression of the sixt Com∣mandement. We cannot sufficiently marvell, that ye have kept up your mindes in this matter, and not answered to so important, and necessary a Demand. As for your com∣plaint of perjurie and rebellion, &c. if ye mean the warning late written to the subjects in Scotland, ye shall know, that the Author thereof himself is much displeased with any offensive asperitie, which hath been found in some written

Copies thereof; and hath already done that, for removing of that offence: which, we hope, shall give full satisfaction to all men.

THE XIII. DEMAND.

HOw can we subscribe that Covenant, without incurring many grievous scandals; as first, the scandall of dissent∣ing from other Reformed Churches, and famous Divines, the chief instruments of the Reformation of the Church in Eu∣rope, who did hold these rites which are abjured in this late Covenant, as meerly unlawfull, popish, and idolatrous, to be in their own nature, lawfull. Secondly, the scandall of dis∣senting from antiquitie, and vilipending it altogether in mat∣ters of the externall policie of the Church; which we know, and have found by frequent experience, to be a thing that ma∣keth many Papists more averse from our profession, than other wayes they would be. Thirdly, the scandall of perjurie, which some of us cannot escape, who did swear obedience to the arti∣cles of Pearth, and to our Ordinarie, at our admission to the Ministerie.

ANSWER.

THat threefold scandall causeth upon the right interpretati∣on of the clause of the forbearance of the novations already introduced.

REPLY.

WE have shown your interpretation of the clause of forbearance, not to be right, and have refuted it, we think, by the very words of your Covenant; so that none

of these three scandals can be eschewed by us, if we sub∣scribe to your foresaid Covenant. 2. Suppose the other two might be eschewed by that interpretation of the clause of forbearance, yet the third cannot be eschewed, seeing at our admission we have sworn obedience to the articles of Pearth, and to our Ordinarie: Wherefore, ye must either prove the Articles of Pearth, and Episcopacie, to be unlaw∣full, or else, we cannot, without violation of our oath, made at our admission, forbear the practise of the foresaid Articles, against the will of our Ordinary, and other our lawfull Superiours.

THE XIIII. DEMAND.

LAst of all; We pray these reverend and worthy bre∣thren, to consider impartially, and charitably, see∣ing we have all these scruples in our minds concerning their Covenant, as also seeing we are yet most confident, and assured of the lawfulnesse of the articles of Pearth, to∣gether with the lawfulnesse and venerable antiquity of Epis∣copall government, how we can, with a safe conscience, give our consent that they should preach in our pulpits, who come professedly to withdraw our people from that which we in the inmost thoughts of our souls do embrace as law∣full; and from that obedience which they do owe to their gracious and pious Soveraigne therein; whose last Procla∣mation hath given full satisfaction to us all, and much re∣joyced our hearts, in respect he hath there in most solemnly, and by his oath declared, not only his sincerity in professing the truth, but also his pious resolution, to continue therein, and maintain it constantly to his lives end, most graciously and wisely removing these things which have occasioned the late perturbation of our Church. We wish them likewise, to consider, how they can require this of us, seeing they

would not (we appeal to their own consciences) be con∣tent that they should be so dealt with themselves; we mean, that any should go up to their pulpits, and condemn their doctrine, and practice, and withdraw their people from that which hath been before recommended unto them as truth.

We conclude: Exhorting earnestly, entreating lovingly, and charging modestly, these, and all others, our reverend brethren, before God, and the Lord Iesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing in his king∣dome, if there be any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels of mercies, to look narrowly to their own consciences, in these weighty matters; remembring that of Ieremy, The heart is deceitfull above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it? To judge charitably of us their brethren; remembring that of our Saviour, Iudge not, that ye be not judged: To deal with us in love and meeknesse, (if so be they think us to have gone astray from the truth; which, God knoweth, we no wayes do perceive) remembring that of S. Paul, If a man be overtaken in a fault, ye that are spirituall, restore such an one with the spirit of meeknesse: as also that of S. Iames, The wisdome that is from above, is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easie to be entreated; full of mercy, and good fruits, &c. And last of all, To seek peace, and so to follow after it; that this our dear native countrey be not exposed to a danger∣ous warfare, and to all the wofull consequents thereof; of which our hearts cannot think, without trembling and horrour.

ANSWER.

1 NOthing in the interpretation of the Covenant, against the lawfulnesse of Pearth articles, and of Episcopall government. 2 We never intended to draw the meanest of the

subjects, from that loyalty of obedience, which they owe to their Soveraigne, and ours. 3 The Counsell hath rescinded the approbation of that Proclamation. 4 His Majesties religious and righteous disposition, hath been to us a ground, and chief argument of our hope of the hearing of all our petitions. 5 We have no desire to wrong our reverend and worthy brethren: but rather to passe in silence, the wrongs which we have sustained by them: And would approve our selves unto our God, and prove faithfull in the imployments put upon us: earnestly de∣siring, That every eye may perceive the wonderfull work of God in this land: lest any of us be found fighting against God; and that all of us may joyn heart and hand, for the purity and peace of the Kirk of our Lord Iesus Christ, blessed for ever.

• M^r. ALEXANDER HENDERSON, Minister at Leuchars.
• M^r. DAVID DICKSON, Minister at Irwing.
• M^r. ANDREW CANT, Minister at Petsligo.

Iuly 21. 1638.

REPLY.

THere is too much, as we think, in your Covenant against the lawfulnesse of Pearth Articles. 2 Your band of mutu∣all defence, against all persons whatsoever, may draw subjects, perhaps, to take arms against their King, (which God avert) and consequently from that loyalty of obedience, which they owe to their Soveraigne, and ours; except ye declare, and explain your selves better, than ye have hitherto done. 3 What the most honourable Lords of his Majesties privie Councell have done concerning the Kings Majesties last Proclamation, is not sufficiently known to us, and far lesse upon what grounds and motives they have (as you say) re∣scinded their approbation of the late Proclamation. 4 His Majesties religious and righteous disposition, hath been to

us, and is a main ground wherefore we rest and rely upon his gracious Proclamation, perswading our selves, that he intendeth not, nor ever intended, any innovation in religion. 5 We shall labour, by all means, to eschew every thing, which in the least degree may wrong you, our reverend and worthy brethren. As for the wrongs already done by us to you, (as ye pretend) whensoever it shall please you to spe∣cifie them, we hope to give you full satisfaction, and to clear our selves of that imputation. 6 The work of God to∣wards any nation, how strange and wonderfull soever it seem to be, is never contrary to his word: And therefore we fear not to be found fighting against Gods work, so long as we fight not against his truth, revealed in his word. That all-seeing Lord knoweth, that we maintain his truth according to the light of our consciences, and are ready to joyn heart and hand with you, for the purity and peace of this Church, in every lawfull way and course, as sincere lovers of truth and peace.

And now, brethren, before we conclude, again we en∣treat you, and all others our dear country men, especially our reverend brethren of the holy Ministery, to judge chari∣tably of us, and of our proceedings at this time; and in particular, of these our Demands, and Replyes; which, God is our witnesse, neither hatred of any mans person, nor love of contention, nor any worldly respect; but only the conscience of our calling hath drawn from us. And as for our arguments for not subscribing, which are taken from our due subjection and obedience to our Soveraigne, and his laws, We protest and declare, That they ought not to be so interpreted, as if we intended to accuse you, or others, our dear countrey men, of disloyalty towards our most gracious King; or as if our purpose were to lay any such imputation upon you: For they are only used by us, to show what the words of the Cove∣nant seem to us to import, and how we conceive of them; as also, what maketh us so to conceive of them. We doubt not, reverend brethren, but ye know, that as we owe to you, and to your proceedings, the favourable judgement of

charitie; so we ought to judge of those things, which we are to swear, and subscribe, with the strict and inquisitive judge∣ment of veritie; and consequently, we ought to ponder duly, and to propound particularly and fully to others, (especially to those who require our oath and subscription, and undertake to satisfie our consciences thereanent) all the doubts and rea∣sons which make us unwilling or afraid to give our subscrip∣tion thereunto.

• JOHN FORBES of Corse, Doctor and Professor of Divinity in Aberdene.
• ALEXANDER SCROGIE, Minister at old Aberdene, D. D.
• WILLIAM LESLEY, D. D. and Principall of the Kings Colledge, in Aberdene.
• ROBERT BARON, Doctor and Professor of Divinity, and Minister at Aberdene.
• JA. SIBBALD, Doctor of Divinity, and Minister at Aberdene.
• ALEXANDER ROSS, Doctor of Divinity, and Minister at Aberdene.

FINIS.