A DISCOURSE OF THE RELIGION O F ENGLAND ASSERTING, That Reformed Christianity fetled in its Due Latitude, is the Stabi- lity and Advancement of this Kingdom. LONDON, Printed in the Year M. DC. IX VII. h r n i .IhLSJDVLR ,.! i 'JUS I t 1 1 /i l^rl 1 ali ni b A iJ. r lJ;7li( .):'.■ aoqviqi • ; I .' ii: ' •;! •.. I id: Eligion being - deeply imprinted in 1 1 Humane Nature ^iaadiha^ing. a great Power over it, and beingmore nota- bly diiplayed in the pdent Age 3 is become tWCrand Intereft of iSikter^ and almofl: of all mien V > though uotafterthe fame man- ner , ri©r upon; the fame Grounds aind Mo- tivesi/For.this^aiife, whether it Comes ih Troth ', ' ot in Shew I only , it is ifoimd to mle and turn - about the great Affairs of iHe 1 World. < •■ AMchpugh mkn^iirings of dificreiit flatuffe, haaay ihavo greatrinflu- ence on the State of this Kingdom rji yet Retigwfrimd. Matters < of Confikncv ■■ evi- A 2 dently The Preface. evidently appear to have the greateft. The diftinguifhing of Perfbns for the favour or disfavour of the Times; yea, the ve- ry Names of Discrimination pais upon the account of Religion* Differences. The A&ive parti of all {orts anfl ranks of men, is hereby chiefly fwayed in their Moti- ons; and their Affections move more im,- portunately in this One ^ then in all their other Concernments. Wherefore if a Settlement may be found out , which may accommodate all- thole Parties on£Per- fvvafions, in which the Peace ofr the 'Na- tion is bound up, it will prove the un- doubted Intereft of this State. And if fuch a Settlement be like wife found to be the true and found ftate of Religion, it muft neecjs be wcqpfcMc \to the faithful Servants of Ghrift, and r the<:!tEue JLovers of their Country.' Now the Adventure of thisDifcourle is The Preface. is to Aflert, That Reformed Chriftianity rightly ftated, andfetled in its dm Latitude, is the Stability and Advancement of the Kingdom of England. Nothing is here fuggefted . for Politick Ends, to corrupt the Purity- or enervate the Power of Re- ligion, or to JelTen Charity ; but the Fa- therly Companion of Rulers, and the mutual Brotherly Condefcention of all Chriftians, required by the Law of Chrift , and fbme Connivence in cafe of infuperable Neceffities, and that for the Truth's fake, is here propounded. Ep- fcofacy is not undermined, nor any other Form of Government here infinuated ; only a Relaxation of the Prefcribed Uni- formity, and fome Indulgence to Diffent- ers of Sound Faith, and Good Life, is iubmifliveJy offered to the Confederation of our Superiors. All Pragmatical Ar- rogance, prefuming to give Rules to Co- ver- The Treface. vernours , and to teach them what to do, is carefully avoided ; only the PoMlBility^ Expediency , and Neceflity of Modera- tion , is reprefented. And it is humbly defired., That this Honeft Intention in purfuance of Peace, may find a favou- rable Reception. ■ t.. . «; — . .i ii. ',; .. ; ■ ■ . . ■■ (> The tmmmmmmmmmmmm. f &> The Contents. • SE&. f* The Religion of this Realm , and Three different parties of molt important confederation , The Prote- ftants of the church of England 3 the Proteftant Non- conforriufts, and the Papifts. Se<3\ 2. The Behaviour and Pretenfion of thePopiJb Party in _ thefe times. ■ Seft. 5 . Thjzt Popery difpofetk Subjects to Rebellion. Seft. 4. That it perjecutes all oth°r Religions within its reach. Sect. 5> ! That whenfoever it finds Encouragement > it at rejihfs^ till ii bears down all before it^ or hath put all indiforder. &t&)6<\Ti>efapijis Pretenfion of Loyalty md Merit in the Kings Caufe examined. Seft. 7. The refult of the whole Difcourfe touching the Popifli Tarty. Seft. 8. That the Reformed Religion makes good Chriftians, and good Subje&s. Se&. 9. The Reformed Religion is the permanent Intereji of thk Kingdom. Se&. 10. // is for the behoof of Religion and true Piety 3 and for the Intereji of tfcs &ate> Thai \ Refer me d \ thrift i mi 'ty tefeiled in its full Extent. Se&. II. How momentous in the Balance of the Nation thofe Proteftants are that diffent from the prefent Ecclefiaftical Jnlitju . ... / . Sefi. 12. The Extirpation of the Diffent ers is both difficult andunprofitable. Seft. 13. The Reprefentation $f this Difficulty u no threat* ning to Rulers ' or intimation of Rebellion. Se& The Contents. •e&. 14. The fet ling of the Nation by an E&abtified Order, * Toleration , and a Connivence. Seft. 15.O/ the Ejiablified Order in Religion, and the Modi * ration therein r squired. Seft. 16. Whether the Dijfenters are capable of being brought intofuch a Comprehenfion. Scft.17. Acquiescence in the widened FjiabliJIment , is the fafety of Re It gi on. Seft. 18. Of Toleration and Connivence. Seft. 19. Dijfenters of narrow an.d rigid Principle /, advijed to Moderation. Sefr. 20. This comprehensive ftate of Religion , further confi- dered> with rejpetf to Three Important Interejis : Firji , To that of the King. Se<3> 2 1 . Secondly 3 To the Interefi of the Church and Clergy. Se&. 22. Thirdly, To the Inter eft of the Nobility and Gentry, Se&. 23. The general Security that comes by this Latitude. # EKR. till it hear down all y or hdthpnt atyin Dif order. Till they make a better Defence th,en the world ^iath yet f^en ,• .we take the jpft liberty gf infiftiqg upon this Charge V a pd examining firftj'How benign ox fife the influence of Popery is upon any State or Kingdom wjiatfoever } and then how it doth comport with the State of England, whofe Balis is the Pro- .teftant'Mg^ lemniy and^onfeqtlyay^^fex PpnQe^Qd.f^pfc. err T in v abat faPERT fhfpqfetA SnhjeQs fa RtfcUicn. \ TX THat hathi hearvi life -confix o plaice of *fee V V Popevwhaatie': the/Head of theRowd&J-wi, the Univer&l content of Hiftory bears ^PQAdv Wfat con- tinual thundering of Excommunications hath founded throughout the Chriftian wpridix efta- C bliO> blifhed in thofe Countries where Popery is in full fway. Doubilcfs that Church whofe Religious Orders in a folemn and Sacred Judicatory, (hall commit fuch horrid Outrages as are indeed aftcd by thofe Infernal Judges, upon pretence Qf Juftice and Piety, muft needs be a School of tlniverfal Cruelty for all her Adherents. The Poprfi hath outgone the Pagan Cruelty. What Trea- chery and Villany hath been afted !' What barbarous In- dignities have be en offered in ways as immodeft andfhame- le(s 5 as outragious and mercilefs, upon pretence of zeal a- gainft Hereticks ! What varieties of ftrangely-devifed Torments have been inM&ed lipon the Servants of Chrift, without fparing Age* Sex, orCondition! Norhath fuch work been done onely in our Age or Country, but in all Ages fucceflively, and Countries unjverfally, that were im- bued with RomiJI) Principles: Witncfsthe hugfeflaughters of the WaldexjcS) the perfections of \\\t Bohemian Bre- thren, and of faany others throughout Chriftendom in the former Ages: And fince preteftant-Reformation , how have the Romijlj Zealots filled Europe with the (laughters of Chriftians within their reach, in France^ Germany, Spain^ Italy \ England , Scotland, the Netherlands. In Ireland^ Piedmont and Poland, their Cruelty is frefh in memory. And the (lain cannot be numbred for multitude 5 they were killed by Thoufands, Ten thoufands, Hundred thoufands^ at one and the lame Perfecution. And the Tragedies have 1 been acted where the Nafiie of Pr&tefiant was well known, j yea, where Proteftatits were under the ilielterof the Law. For the jefuitsunceflantly ftir up the Princes to fall upon their people againftLaw 3 and without provocation gi^en, and after thkigs- have been fetled,to break their Agreements : withthem. And t-he Pope hiwilelf is theContriver or Applau- derof thefe Mifchiefs, and the fuccesful execution there- of j is received at Rome with joy and triumph, as the Mur- therers M therers iq the fariftan Maflacre were highly extolled by the Pope, and rewarded with fiich fpiritual Graces as his Hdlineis ufeth t o beftow . SECT. V. That wherefoever it finds Encouragement , it is reftlefs^tillit bears down all before it> or hath put all in diforder. MAy we judgbythefe things, how a Party devoted to the See of Rome, are to be trufted and cheriftied in a Proteftant Nation, who mind the fecuring of themfelves and their pofterity^from the fharpeft Perfections $ efpe- cially considering the Third Branch of the Charge y That in any State, where they find advantage^or Jit matter to worl^ upon, they are rejiiefs^ till they bear down all 5 or put all in diforder. Popery hath its formed Combinations, and feded Corre- fpondencies overall Chriftendom, under the Supreme Di- redtionand Government of the Congregation zi'Rome^ox the propagation of theJFaith} which fent over fwarms of Seminary Priejls, Jefuits, and Fryars of all forts, who made their Hives in England. The feveral PARLIAMENTS of the later times of King. James , reprefented to the Kjhg how the popifi Recufants had dangeroufly increafed their ; N;umbers and Tftfolcncies, having great expedration from the Treaties with Spain^nd the interpofing of Foreign Princes for Indulgence to them, how they openly and ufually reforted to the Churches and Chappels of Foreign Ambafiadors , their .more then tiiiial concourfe to the City, and their frequent Conventicles and Conferences there $ how their children were educated in many Foreign Seminaries appropriated to the Englifl) Fugitives , what fwarms of Prieftsand Jefuits came into the Land} many Popiih and Seditious' Books liccntioully C 2 print- 00 printed and difperfed. From which Caufes, as from bitter Roots, mod dangerous Effe&s both to Church and State would follow. For the Popifh Religion is incompatible with ours \ it draws with it an unavoidable dependance up- on Foreign Princes } it opens a wide gap for popularity in any who tfrall draw too great a party } it hath a reftlefs fpi- i it, and will ftri ve by thefe gradations. If it once get con- nivance, it will prefs for Toleration 3 if that fhould be obtained, itmuft have an Equality 3 from thence it will afpireto a Superiority, and never reit till it hath wrought the fubverfioH of true Religion. In thefeveral PARLIAMENTS of Ring Charles the Firft, not one Vnblick^ Grievance was more infilled on, then the Growth of POP ERY. In the Third PARLIAMENT of that King 3 at a Conference between the Lords and Commons about Popifi Recufants , one -of the Principal Secretaries of State fpake thus: "Give me leave to tell cc you what I know , That Thefe now both vaunt at home, cc and write to their Friends abroad, they hope all will cc be well, and doubt not to prevail, and win ground upon C: us: And a little to awaken the Care and Zeal of our cc Learned and Grave Fathers, it is fit that they take notice cc of that Hierarchy, which is already Eftablifhed in com- cc petition with their Lordftiips : For they have already a c * Biflhop confecrated by the Pope. This Bifliop hath his c, fubalternate Officers of all kinds, as Vicars General^ Cc Arch-Deacons , Rural Deans , Apparitors , and fiich like 5 C; neither are thefe nominal and titular Officers alone , but iC they all execute their Jurifdiftion,and make their ordina- ry Vifitation throughout the Kingdom, keep Courts, and c determine Ecclefiaftical Caufes, and, which is an argu- ment of more confequence , they keep ordinary intelli- gence by their Agents at Rome^ and hold correfpondencies f (he p andthcCot>fentof the Cities and the Peer* in Defcn; : Arms. Which they have wiitten over and above their pe- culiar Principleof the Popes UnlverfaJ Pbwet of Depu- ting Kings that are unfit for Government. As for the woful Cataftropheof thofe Commotions, it hath been manifefted to the world by fnch as undertook to iuftifieit, when Authority fhould require : fftat tie) ear be- fore the Kings deaths a jelfil number of Jefuits being feni from their nhole Farty in England, con/tilted both the Fa- culty of Sorbon, and the C onclave ^/ Rome 5 touching the Lawfulnefs and Expediencf of -promoting the Change of Government 3 by making away the King, whom they de- haired to turn from hk Herefie .• It was debated and conclu- ded in both places , That for the advancement of the Ca- tholicl^Cauje 3 it was Lawful and Expedient to carry on th«t Alteration of State. This Determination was effe- ctually purfued by many Tefuits that came over, and act- ed their parts inleveral Difguifes. After that execrable Fadl: was perpetrated on the Perfonof our Soveraign. if we may believe moft credible reports, there were many Witnefles of the great joy among the Evglifh Convents ^and Seminaries , and other companies of Papifts beyond Sea, as having overcome their great Enemy , and done their main work. Many of their Chief ones fought the favour of the U- furpers, with offers of doing them fervice. One of great note among them, in a Book entituled , Grounds of Obedi- ence and Government^ undertook the folution of the Grand Cafe of thofe Times: That if a People he dijjolved into the State of Anarchy, their Promife mad: to their ex- pelled Governour 3 binds no more, they are remitted to ice force of Nature to provide for themfelves. That the old Ma- gifirates (It) gyrates Rights Jlands upon the Common Peace , and that is transferred to his Rival , by the Title of Quiet Po/feJ/iatu Conformably to thefe Principles, they addrefs their Pe- tition, To the Sitprcam Authority^ the PARLIAMENT of the Commonwealth of England. Tlicy affirmed , They had generally taken , and pun&uAly l\ept the Engagement , and promifed , That if they might enjoy their Religion y they would be the moft quiet and uieful Subjc&s* Of their Actings (ince His Majefties Reftauration and (the jealoufies and Rumours about them, let men judg as they find by the Evidences that are given. SECT. VII. The Rejiilt of the rchole Dijcotlrfe touching the PopiJJj Party. AND now let it be duly weighed, Whether thePa- piftsof thefe Dominions have in later times chang- ed their former Principles and Interefts, or have only ta- ken another method of greater Artifice and Subtilty, as the change of times hath given them direction and advan- tage. The fcope of the whole preceding Difcourfe, is to call in cjucftion thole high pretentions of theirs 3 and to crofs their Aims at great Power and frufL* But it is not directed againft the Security of their Pcrfons or For- tunes, or any meet Indulgence or Clemency towards them. Let them have their Faith to themfelves, with- out being vexed with fnares, or any aftiicT-ed^ theState always providing to obviate the forementionec Princi- ples and Practices of Dilloyalty, and thediffufingof the leaven of their Supcrftition. The Inference of the whole is this, That they be not admitted to a capacity of evil and dangerous influence upon the Affairs of the Kingdom, or of interrupting and perplexing the courfe. of things that con- cern the publike. SECT. SECT. VIII. That the Reformed Religion wakes good Chrijlians^ and good Snbjc&s. AS true Religion is the moft Noble End , fb it is -the beft Foundation of all Political Government. And it is the felicity of the State of England, to reft upon this Bads, even Reformed Ghriftianity , or the Primitive and Apoftolick Religion recovered out of the Apoftacy of the later times, and fevered from that new kind of Paganrfm, or Vagano-Chriftianifm 5 under which it lay much opprefled and overwhelmed, but not extinguilhed. Its wholfome Do- ftrine contained in its publick Confeffions , makes good Chriftians, and good Subje&s. It teacheth obedience to Civil Magistrates, without the controle of any Superior or Collateral Power. Nor is it concerned , if dangerous Pofitionsfall from the Pens of fome Writers. And not- withftanding the Adversaries Cavils ? the Divines of Au- thority and (olid Reputation in the Proteftant Churches, do with a general Confent maintain the Rights of Princes and Soveraign Powers v againft all Difbbedience. If any aberration in Practice, hath been found in its Pirofeflbrs , it is not to be charged therewith , be^ufe it condemns it } but the general pra&ice in this point, hath been conformable totheDodhine. The Reformation in England, for its Legality and Or- derlinefs, is unquestionable. In GeYmanyit wasfetled and defended by Princes and free Cities, that governed their own Signiories and Territories , paying only a ref^eft of Homage to the Emperor. In Helvetia^ began by the Se- nates of the Cantons. It was received in Geneva by that Republick 3 after the Civil Government had been reformed by ftrdng Papiits. In the Provinces of the Netherlands it D was f«3) was fpread many years before the Union againft the Spani* ard, which Union wns not made upon the (core of Reli- gion^ but of state. The manner of its beginning in Scot" land^ is by fbmc attributed to a National Difpofition , the afperitynnd vehemency thereof, is faid to be greater in times of Popery, and to be much mitigated by the Refor- nation. For France , we may take the Teftiroony of King Jajuex , who was jealous enough for the Power of Kings. He faid D ThatAe never ktierv yet ^ that the French Prote- ftants took. Arms againft their King. In the firft Trou- bles , they flood only upon their Defence} before they took Arms, they were burned and Madacred every where. The firft Quarrel did not begin for Religion, butbecaufe when King Francis the Second was under Age, they had been the refuge of the Princes of the Blood expelled from the Court, who knew not elfe whereto takeSan&uary:, and that it (hall not be found that they made any other Warr. It is not for this Difcourfe to intermeddle with all the Aftionsof Proteftant Subjefts towards their Princes, that have happened in Chriftendom: Let them ftand or fall by the Laws and Polity under which they live. Whenfoever they have been difloyal , they have fwerved from the known and received Rules of their Profeflion. Through the corruption of Mankind, Subje&s of whatfbever per- fwafion, are prone to Murmurings and Mutinies. Some- times Oppreilioa makes them mad. Sometimes a Jealoufie of Incroachments upon their Legal Rights and Liberties^ raifeth DiftempersandContefts. And fometimes an un- bridled , wanton affe&ing of inordinate Liberty 3 makes them infolent and licentious. But over and above thefe common Sources of Rebellion, Popery hath a peculiar one^ and that of the greateft Force, the Conference of Religious Obligations , and the Zeal of the Catholick Faith. Protectants have never difowned their King for dit-' ference C>9) ference in Religion , as the moft of the Roman Catholuh* of France dealt with Henry the Fourth, by the Popes in- fcigation. And in their greateft Enormities, they have ne- ver attempted the Stabbing and Poyfbning of Princes that ftood in their way , which the Jefuits teach their Di- fciples. SECT. IX. 7he Reformed Religion is the permanent Intereji $f this Kingdom. AS the Proteftantor Reformed Religion, is the true Primitive Chriftianity, lb it is the ftable and perma- nent Intereft of England^ and the fure Foundation of its Profperity. The King of England is the moft Mighty Prince of this Profeffion , and becomes the more Potent over Chriftendom j by being the Head and Chief of the whole Proteftant Party.- And it is well known. That by the Support and Defence of this Caufe, the Nation hath encreafed in Honour , and Wealth, and Power. The Peoples rooted A verfnefs from Popery , is moft ap- parent, and their Jealoufies work upon any more then ufa - al Infblence or Confidence of the Papifts. The Royallifts as well as others , have been Allarm'd , and manifefted their Zeal againft it. And His Majefties Averfnefi from it, isfo fully declared by His Conftancy amidft Temp- tations, in the time of His Exile, and now fince His Re- turn, that for His Honours fake, it is made very penal for any to fuggeft that He would introduce it 5 the Law pre- fuming , That fuch foggeftion muft needs proceed from an evil mind. And what Prince that hath caft off the Popes yoke, would willingly come under it again? A Foreign States- man of the Roman Profeffion , hath obferved it as a Barr D 2 againft (so) againft the proje&ed Reconciliation between England and Rome^ That it could not be effefted without Conceffions on both (ides, contrary to the Maxims of both parties. This Realm (faith he) is perverjly addi&ed to maintain its own refolutc Opinion of Excluding the Topes Authority. And the Court of Rome is more follicitom to remove whatfocver is contrary to its Temporal Grandure , then to extirpate Juch Herefies as this Realm, is infe&ed with. To inftance in that one pointof the Approbation or Toleration of the Oath of Allegiance :> though fome Catholick Doftors had with their Tongues and Pens maintained the lawfulnefs of that Oath 5 yet thereby, and by opening fome other points of high confequence, they had fo difpleaied the Pope, that could they have been catch't, they were fure to have been burn'd or ftrangled for it. But what allurement is there to difjpofe the Monarchs of the Earth to fubjeft themfelvesto the Sacerdotal Empire of Rome^ or to endeavour an Ac- commodation with it? Hath Popery its advantages to di- fpofe Subjects to (ecurity and blind obedience? So it hath its advantages to loofen the Bonds of Allegiance, and fo- ment Rebellion in Subjects} when Proteftancy feafons them with principles of unftained Loyalty. A people nuzled in ignorance and fuperftition, are more eafily (edu- ced from their obedience to Magistrates, and carried head- long by thole that have dominion over their Confciences. But Under Handing and Rnowledg makes men eonfiderate, and more eafily manageable by a juft and prudent Go- vernment. As for the Clergy's Intereft, though the Proteftant Re- ligion doth not affeft that exceffive Pomp and Splendor of Church-men, which the Popifh doth ^ yet it is taken for granted. That neither Conference nor Intereft will permit the Biftiops and Clergy of England^ to unite to the See of Rome. Their Dottrine is too pure, and their Judgment too clear (21) clear for a full compliance with Popery: And they know what it is to come under the Papal Yoke, to divert: them- felves, and receive new Orders from Rome , and to be dis- placed and fet behind the Veteran Soldiers of the Roman Gamp 3 whole turns muft be firft(erved # SECT. X. It is for the behoof of Religion and true Piety J and for the Interefi of this State , That Reformed Chrijiianity be fet led in its full Extent. IF it be refolved 3 That Protcjiancy is the truth of chrijiia- nity , and alfo ? the fiabtlity of England f> it follows 3 That this Profellion muft not be ltreightned and leflened , but inlarged and cherifhed, according to its true Extent s and the Pvule and Square of the Ecclefiaftical State, muft be commenfurate thereunto. Itfhouldbe the meafure of all mens Zealand Activity in Rites and Opinions , whatsoe- ver is neceflary to its fupport and advancement, isconftant- ly to be aflerted 5 and about things impertinent thereunto, contention fhould utterly ceafe. This is to advance the Kingdom of God among men, and to encreale the Church's glory upon earth. But by needlefs Schifms and Factions, to weaken the common Intereft of Reformed Chriftiani- ty, istodiffipatethe Church of God, and to defeat the great Ends of theChriftian Religion, which are, Sound and ftrong Faith iu Chrift and his Promifes, unfeigned de- votion, purity of heart , innocence and integrity of life, common charity, brotherly love, humility, mutual forbear- ance, and condeicention, unfhaken peace and concord. As this Latitude promotes the great Defigns of Chrifts Gofpel, (6 it fettles this Nation, and is, for matter of Reli- gion, its right and fore Bafis. Every good Foundation, lyes adequate to the Building to be laid thereou: So any Polity Civil Civil orEccle(iaftical,{houldbe proportionate to the peo» pie to be governed thereby. The people that are of mo- ment in the Ballanceof this Nation, are, though notuni- verfally, yet more generally rooted in Vrotejtatiti^m^ as it is taken in its due latitude, and not as unduly reftrained by the paffions and interefts of men : For in this they are one, though divided about lefler things. There hath been much difcord between men of feveral Perfwafions, that throughly accord with each other in the fame common Faith , as almoft to expunge one another out of the Lift of Frotejiants. Surely this is a great error and a difadvantage on all hands, as well to thofethatftand on the Vantage-ground, as to others: For they that carry it after this fort, do weaken the Common Intereftoftrue Religion, and ftrengthen the Common Adveriary that is irreconcilable, and difparage themfelves as a narrow Party orFa&ion. That all thofc who heartily embrace the En-> glijl) Reformation eftablilhed by Law, are Proteftants, will not be queftioned by men of temperate fpirits. And concerning the refidue, let the fober-minded judge. Whe- ther they that aflentto the Dottrine of Faith contained in the Articles of the Church of England^zt^ -do worfhip God according to that Faith, have right t6 be efteemed Proteftants. Now if Proteltancy taken in its due Ex- tent, doth fway the Nation, and is able to fettle its Peace againft the Competition of any Rivals (hould it not be en- compafled according to that Extent, as much as is poffible, in the Polity of this State? SECT. $*0 SECT. XF, lloxv momentous in the Bal/ance of the Nation ^ thofe Prote* Jiants art) that dijjent from the prefent Ecclcfi.fijcal Polity. "V T\ THether cogent Reafbn (peaks for this Latitude, V V be it now coftfidcrcd 3 How momentous in the Ballance of this Nation^ thofe Tr 'otefi ants are, which are dif- fatisfed in the prefent Ec cleft aft ical Polity. They are every where fpred through City and Countrey s they make no (mall part of all ranks and forts of men 5 by Relations and Commerce they arefo woven into the Nations Intel efh that it isnoteafie to fever them, without unravelling the whole. They are not excluded from among the Nobility^ among the Gentry they are not a few f> but none are of more importance then they in the Trading part of the people, and thofe that live by Induftry, upon whole hands the Bu- finefsof the Nation lyes much. It hath been noted, that fome who bear them no good will, havefaid, That the very Air of Corporations is infetfedwith their Contagion. And in whatsoever degree they are, high or low, ordinarily for good underftanding , fteddinefs and fbbernefi, they are not inferior to others of the fame Rank and Quality 5 nei- ther do they want the Rational Courage of Englifi Men. As for theMiniftcrs of this Perfwafion , fbme have cal- led them Fools for their Inconformity 5 others are report- ed to have faid. That the Church fhonld not foeafily be rid of them^ as if their Conformity had been dreaded by them. Some have pitied them, wifhingfA/if they would Conform^ and others revile them , faying , Conform^ or net Conform^ never truft them. Howbeit, they make Solemn Appeals to the Moft High God 5 That they dare not Conform , for Con* (H) Ccnfcience fake s and that it is not in the power of their own wills to relieve them. And vvhatfbcvcr their grounds of diilcntbe, they hold it out againfl: all hopes of Indul- gence, whilft many of them Jive in Neceffities, and moft of them upon the kindnefs of others. It is now about Five years fince a Full and Vigorous AB of Vniform'ny . at once cleared the Church of the fuppofed Enemies of her Polity. All Corporations have been New-model'd and changed as to the Principles and Tempers of perfbns, for the better fecuring of the Go- vernment in Church and State. The Private Meetings for Religious Worfhip ( termed Conventicles ) areftridrly prohibited D Deportation being the Penalty upon the Third Convi&ion. And for the breaking and diffipating of the whole Party 3 it is provided by another Law 3 That the Non-conforming Jllinijiers be removed five miles diftant from the places of their ujual fupport s and influences. Such care is taken, andfuchis the advantage both of Law and Power, to flrengthen the State 9 and reftrain Diflenters/ N evert helefs., the State Ecclefiajiical hath advanced little in the efteem, acceptance^ or acquiefcence of people. The Diflenters are dill the fame, and are rather ftrengthned in their averfiiefs. And thofe of them that repair to the publick Afiemblies, retain their Principles of Reformation (as they fpeak) without feperation. The Indifferent ibrt of men are ftill indifferent D and it may be have fbme kindnefs for thedeprefled Party, and pity them in their Sufferings. SECT. XII. The Extirpation of the Dijjeniers is both difficult and unprofitable. PEradventure (bme think their total Extirpation to be thefureft way to publick Security and Peace} and that great Severities will do the work. But Violent com- pulfion and Terror , comports not with the nature of ChriftianReligion,whichisa Rational Service > and feeksa willing people '-, and is not at all in truth , where it is not re- ceived with judgment and free choice. Befides, the fuccefs of fuch a courfe may be doubted of, fincethe Proteftant fpirit is not like the Popifh, Cruel and outragious} and the nature of Englijl) men is not bloody, but generoufly compaflionate. Wherefore in this Land to execute Extremity upon an intelligent, fober and peacea- ble fort of men, ib numerous among all ranks , may prove exceeding difficult 3 unlefs it be executed by fuch lnftruments as may ftrike terror into the whole Nation. The Civil Offi- cers in general, may not be found fo forward toaftlift their quiet and harmlefs neighbours. Moreover, if feverity ufed onceforall, could extinguish an oppofite party, there might be fome plea of Policy 5 but when Severity muft ftill be juftified with more Severity, without an end , it is like to prove unlucky to the undertakers. Not is the iNation like to grow the better by the fubver- fionof this (brt,if it were effected. For in them np fmall part of the Nations Sobriety, Frugality, and Induftry doth refide. They are not the Great Wajlers , but moftly in the number of Getters. In mod places the difplaceing of them hath not encreafed Civility and good Converfation among men \ and it makes not for their dishonour, that ma- ny will fwear and be drunk , to declare they are none of them. E There (26) There is fomething of more importance. To purge the Nation of this people ] may be to purge out more of its Vitals, then the ftrength of this State can bear. To fup- prefs thofethat are reckoned among the chief in Tra- ding, and whole Commerce is fo general, may beget a ge- neral diffidence andinfecurity in Traders, and may help to driveaw/vyTrade'itfclf', and fend it to an emulous and encroaching Nation. May we mind, without offence, the event of things among us > i The bufinefe" of the Nation hath not proceeded with the current and free paflage ex- pelled 5 nor doth its Wealth and Glory encreale. Trade languifhctb^ and Tr aders iail in great Numbers} the Rents of Lands fefljjj there is fcareity > of Money in City and Country 5 the Neceffities and Difficulties of private E- ftates are common, and Complainings are general. And after a continued decay , things are at laft fallen and funk much lowef in the Ruins of the City of LONDON. Tis the Nations happinefs to be re-eftabli(hed upon the Ancient, Legal Foundations } but it is the right ftating and purfuing of its true Intereft , by which it comes to a firm ccnfiftency,and proportionable growth. But. this (brt of men are inquifitive , and therefore trou- blefome to Rulers', tc^Whom Obedience without difpu- ting, is rAoft 'acceptable. It is fit indeed they be as humble andmodeft, as inquifitive. Yet thefe inquiring menftand much by that main Principle of rrotejidntifm , the Judg- nrent of Ditcretion. Indeed , the Churches Infallibility, and th'e peoples implicite Faith, may help againft all Di- sputes': but it cannot be (bin Bngkhd\ whilft the people read the' Scriptures, and theeftabliftied Do&rine of Faith remains with us: And if no greater latitude can be al- lowed, then is at prefent,a Race of Non-conformifts is like to run parallel with the Conformiftsto the worlds end. SECT. (?7) • SECT. XIII. 7 he reprefentatien of tbk Difficulty , is no Threatning ft Ruler s^ or Intimation of Rebellion. . SUch as take this Reprefentation for a Challenge to the Higher Powers, and a Demand of LIBERTY 5 and a Threatning, if it be not granted, are too far transported with Paflion. What can be of greater concernment to Governors , then to difcern and confider the ftate of their people, as it is indeed? And why may it not be minded by Subje&s, and fpoken of without any hint or thought of Rebellion? If Subje&s ufe Arguments of Equity ackl Safety to Princes, it doth not prefently fpeak -rf Demand: And it is no Threatning to fay, That Rnkrs themfelves mufi be ruled by Reafon , or do worfe. The truth is, fhoutd they whofe Cafe is here argued, upon this (core meditate Rebellion and Warr, ; they' w^re abandoned of their own. Reafon, and'vvould hurry them- felves into a precipice of manifeft Ruin. Torufh into ways of violence, evidently deftroys their Intereft,which ftands in maintaining fuch works ^ and providing (uch things as are profitable to the Commonwealth, that it may be known that the publike go6d con(ifts by them, as much as by others. To abide in their ftations, to have patience under grievances, to iweeten their Gover- nors by humility and modefhv is their beftfecurity , who Hand or fall together with the true Intereft of the Nation'. Nevertheless, though apeoples difcompofure doth not foTefpeak Warn and Tumults 5 yet it may denounce Woe and Afifery. Can nothing undo a Kingdom , buft Rebelli^ on and Treafont Was there ever, a greater Separation from the, Church of England, then no vf is? Was there ever lefi fatisfadtion among Multitudes every where 3 thiat E 2 do ( 2 8) do yet frequent her Aflemblies? A State, that is free from violent Convulfive motions, may fall into a Paraly- tic^ or Hectick^ Diftemper, or an Atrophy. The Current of Vital Blood may beftoptinits Veins. There be ful- len Mutinies, that make no noife, but may loofen all the Joyntsand Ligaments of Policy. SECT. XIV. The Setting of the Nation by an EjiablijJjed Order , a To- leration, and a Connivence. IF the Intereft both of Reformed Chriftianity , and of this Kingdom, require a more comprehenfive ftate of Religion, the true Extent of that State will be no imperti- nent or unmeet Inquiry. Such is the complicated condition of Humane Affairs , that it is exceeding difficult to devife a Rule or Model that (hall provide for all whom Equity will plead for. Therefore the Prudent and Sober will acquiefce in any Conftitution that is in fome good fort proportionable to the Ends of Government. All that are thought fit to abide with fecurity in any. ftate, may be re- duced to Three forts: Firft 5 Thofe that are of theEfta- blifhedand Approved Order. 2. Such as may be Tole- rated under certain Reftri&ions. 3. Such as may be on- ly connived at. And accordingly the Setling of a Nati- on may be made up of an Efiabliflment , a Limited Tole- ration, and a Difcreet Connivence. To be comprehended within the Efiabliflment , it is requifite not only to be of importance in the Publick Intereft , but alfo of Princi- ples congruous to fuch ftatcd Order in the Church, as the ftability of the Commonwealth requires* As for the two later, Toleration and Connivence, they muft be regulated with refpe¬ only to common Charity, but alfo to the Safety of the Eftabliflied Order. SECT C*9) SECT. XV. Of the Ejlablified Order in RELIGION, and the Moderation therein required. AS for the Ejiablified Order , we prefume not here to intermeddle with the Form or Species of Church-Go- vernment 5 butonlytoconfider the prefcribed Uniformi- ty of Judgment and Pra&ice. Evident reafbn fpeaks, That this be not narrow, but as broad and comprehenfive as it is poflible, that of it felf, by its own force, it may be chief in fway and controle all diflenting parties. On the other hand 3 it muft not be loofe and incoherent 5 but well com- pacted, that it may attain the Ends of Discipline, which are to promote found Doctrine, and godly life, and to keep out Idolatry, Superftition, and all wicked Error and Pra- ctice that tends to the defeating of the Power of Chriftian Verity, Now rhefe Ends do not require a Conftitution of narrower bounds, then things neceflary to Chriftian Faith and Life , and godly Order in the Church. Thefe things muft be maintained, and clearly ftated 5 but whatfoever is more then thefe, may be matter of good intention and de- votion to fome, but an occafion of ftumblingto others. If it be laid, Who foall judg what things are necejjary ? This doubt might fbon be refolved #5 if paffion, and pre- judice, and private ends were vanquifhed. But however, let it be put to the Reafonand Confidence of the Church of EnglandiWhy fhould not the great things of Chriftianity in the hands of wife Builders, be a fufficient Foundation of Church-Unity and Concord? What need hath the Church to enjoyn more then what is neceflary to Faith and Order ? Is not Moderation and Charity far more excellent,then glo- rying in Opinions, Formalities, and petty matters, to the regret of many Confidences ? What if thofetbat queftion her (30) her Injunctions, (hould be weak, nice and captious? It is about matters of Divine Worftiip, wherein God hath proclaimed his Jealoufie^ and therefore if they being over-jealous 9 doerre, they deferve pity. Our Eccleafiaftic&l Superiors are here earneftly befbught, Calmly and ferioully to review the prescribed Uniformi- ty, and to conlider howfome parts thereof, which at the beft are but things indifferent, have been long difputed, and by what manner of men, and what hath been argued for and againft them?, and how this Difference hath held, and (till encreafed, from Bifhop Hooper in King Edward's time, to the prefent ISJon-conformiJis \ and then to judg whe- ther a rational and confcientious man may not poflibly dif- lent from fome of thefe things, or at leaft doubt of their Lawfulnefi} and in cafe of fuch dilienting or doubting, what he fhould do, feeing the Apofcle faith in the cafe of Meats 3 He that doubts , is damned if he eat, becauji he eateth net of faith. Can a man by Subfeription and Practice, allow thofe things which his Confcience ratio* nally doubts to be finful? It is Honour and Power enough for the Church, to be enabled by her Authority to infprce Gods Command- ments. $he is obferved at>d honoured as a Mother in- deed , when by her Wifdom and Care, her Children walk orderly according to the Chriflianlnftitution^ and it may fdfticc her to chaftife thofe of them that walk contrary to Chrift. Though (he be of venerable Authority, yet (he doth not 'claim an Infallibility 5 and therefore The canhot fettle the Confcience by her fole Warrant, but ftill leaves room for doubting. And in prefcribed Forms and Rites of Religion, the Confcience that doth its office, will ine- vitably interpofe and concern it felf 5 and it being unfa- tivfied , jarrs and rents will follow. Wofu I Experience cryes unto us .> Ho more of fuch Injun&ions 1 ken needs wujl. The The indifputable Truths of Faith , and the indifpenfable. Duties of Life 3 are the main objeft of Church-Difci- pline : \ therefore an ill choice is made when the vigor of Difcipline is exercitcd about letter and more difpen- fable things of meer Humane Determination. The Sons of the Church of England' commend the Mo- deration ufed in the Articles of Religion, being formed in words of that extent ? that men of different Perfwafl- 6ns about the Dofrrines of Tredejtination 3 Divine Vrace^ and Free-will s did alike fubferibe them. Neverthelefs, the prefent Orders and Ceremonies inexorably impofed, have been as much difputed among the Godly Learned, as thofe different Opinions about the Dofrrines aforefaid$ and yet who can think they are of as much importance to the Subftartce of Religion ? Moreover , men might more eafily agree in the ufe of thefe little things , or of fome of them 3 were their In- ternal Judgments fpared, and Subfcriptionsnotinjoyned. They may bear with others in the practice of fome things 5 which themfelves cannot pra&ice. They may fubmit to fome things 3 which they cannot approve:, and that not for unworthy Ends 5 but for Confciencefake^ andchufe rather to acquiefcein a Tolerable Stalt^ which for the main is found and good , rather then to endeavour a total Change 3 which maybe mifchievous, andatbeft is full of hazard. Wife men know. That by hafty Changes they do not come to reft and quietneftj but only change their Old Grievances for New ones. If Practice fufficiently uniform, that is to fay 5 without any feandalous differ- ence, may be obtained from men of different Perfwafions, Why (hould Uniformity of Judgment be exalted 3 and men tempted'in doubtful points, to let their Consciences on the Rack? If any number of Diflenters were willing to do their uttermoft towards Compliance, why fliould need- needlefs Choak-pears, which they could notfwallow, be forc'd upon them? Tf the Church's Authority be had in reverence, if Order and Peace be kept., what matter is it from what fpcculative Principles fuch observance pro- ceeds? Though a man io complying, be not of the fame mind with his Superiors , yet he may have this honeft Catholick Principle, To promote the commoi> Intereft of Reformed Chriftianity, and to dread the weakning and fluttering of it by needlefs Schifms. As for a narrow- bounded Unifoimity both in Opinions, and petty Obfer- vations, it is no more neccflary in the Church, then Uni- formity of Complexions and Vifages in the fame Civil State •>> and is indeed no more attainable , where a gene- rous Freedom of Judgment is allowed. SECT, XVI. Whether the Diffenters are capable of being brought into fuch a CoMprehenjion. \T\ THilft Reafon is urged on their behalf that are V V left without the lines of the prefent EftabliQi- ment, fbme haply may ask , Will they themfelves hearken to reafon} Beit fuppofedthat fbme among them feem not re- ducible to a due publick Order} but another fort there are, and thofe of chiefefl: moment , whofe principles are fit for Government^ the ftability whereof hath been ex- perimented in thofe Countreys where they have had the effjftual concurrence of the Civil Powers. Their Way never yet obtained in England , nor were they ever fa- voured with the Magiftrates vigorous aid, fb much as for an Accommodation with the Eftablilhed Polity: But their difficulties haveftill encreafed} and how ftreight fb- ever the Terms impofed on them, were in times before, the after-times have ftill made them ftreighter. Wherefore it - (33) if they have been too much addicted to their own Opini- ons, or have committed ibme errors in the management oi their Affairs, his no marvel.* It was not eafie.for them, being deftitute of the Magiftrates influence, and lying un- der great dilcouragement and difadvantage,always to keep ftable and fore footing in fuch a flippery place as Church- Dilcipline. The aflertingof their Difciplme, is not here intended } but the Inquiry is, Whether they be of a Judgment and Temper that makes them capable of being brought under the Magiftrates Paternal Care and Conduct, to fuch a flated Order as will comport with this Church and Kingdom ? This is no undertaking Difcourfe, h prefumes only to offer its Reafbnto equal and impartial Readers. When a Divine of great fame, andof muchefteem with the chief- eft of the Englifl) Clergy, was taxed by the Jefuit his Ad- versary, for being no I 'rot eft ant , as refufing to fiibfcribe the Nine and thirty Articles 5 he judged it a fufficient An- fwer to teftifie his belief, lhat the DcBrine of this Church to as fo pure and holy , that whojoever lived according to it, fiould undoubtedly befaved'->& that there was nothing in it that might give jufl caufe to any toforfa^e the Communion.or difiurb the Feace thereof Who, or what is there almoft, that this or the like Latitude would not encompafi , when hearty endeavours are put forth to gain men? The fame Catho- lick Spirit may dwell both in larger and ftri&er judg- ments. One that cannot fubferibe to all things contain- ed in a Volume of Do&rines and Rules compiled by men fubje&to error, may be ready to joyn with any Church not depraved in theiubftance of Religion, that doth net impofe upon his belief or pra&ice, things unfound or doubt- ful, as the terms of her Communion. The Pm/yfer/rfff/ge-nerallyhold the Church of England to be atrueChurch, though defective in its Order and Dilcipline^ and frequent the Worihipof God in the pub- F like (34) JikeAflembHes. And many of thofe that preft carneftly after further Reformation, do yet communicate as well in the Sacraments , as the Word Preached^ and Prayer. And a way might be opened for many more to do as mwch, by afafeandeafie condefcention of thofe in Authority. The Mimfters of the Presbyterian Perfwafion , in their Propofals prefented to His Majefty, declare. That they do not, nor ever did renounce the true Ancient Primitive Epifcopacy, or Prefidency, as it wasballanced or managed by a due commixtionof presbyters therewith. That they arefttisfied in their judgments concerning the Lawfulness of a Liturgy or Form of Worfhip, and they Petition His Majefty, That for thcfetlingof the Church in Uni- ty and Peace, fbme Learned , Godly , and Moderate Di- vinesj indifferently chofen, may be employed to compile a Form, as much as may be, in Scripture-words { or at leaft toRevife, and efFeftually Reform the Old. Concerning Ceremonies , they profefc to hold themlelves obliged in every part of Divine Worfhip, to do all things decently and in order 5 and to be willing therein to be determined by Authority 9 in fuch things as being meerly circumftanti- al, are common to humane aftions , and are to be ordered by the Light of Nature, and Humane Prudence, according to the general Rules of Gods Word. But as for divers Ceremonies formerly retained*in the Church of England, in as much as they contribute nothing to the neceffary de- cency which the Apoftle required, and draw too near the fignificancy and moral efficacy of Sact-ainents 3 and have beenreje&ed together with Popery , by many of the Re- formed Churches abroad., and ever finte thr Reformation* have been matter of endlefs Diftute in thr Churchy and an occafion of great (eperation, and are at the befr, indif- ferent, and in their own nature mutable , they defire they be not impoiedp and they heartily acknowledg his Maje- fty 05) fty to be Supreme Governour over all Perfons, and over all Things and Caufes in thefe his Dominions, Upon thefe Propofiils 5 His Majcfty in His Declaration concerning Ecclefiaftical Affairs 5 hath thus graciouily ex- prefle.d himfclf : * : We muft for the Honour of all thole of cc either Perfivafion , with whom We have conferred , de- clare. That the Profeffions and Defires for the advance- cc men* of true Piety and Godlinefs , are the fame 3 their c * profeffions of Zeal for the Peace of the Ghurch > the cc fame } of Affe&ion and Duty to lis, the fame. They all c * approve Epifcopacy ; they all approve a fet-form of Li- c ' turgy 5 and they all difapprove and did ike the fin of Sa- C: criledg and Alienation of the Revenues of the Church. cc And it upon thefe Excellent .Foundations, in fubtnifGon cc to which there is fuch a harmony of Afieftions, any Su- cc perftru&ure (hould - be raifed to the fhaking of thefe cc Foundations , or the contracting and leflening of the cc bkfled gift of Charity., which is a vital part of Chfi- Cc ftian Religion , We fhall think our felves^ryunffcrtu- cc nate>, and even fufpe&that We are defe&iveinthat'Ad- cc minjftration of Government with whichGod hath intrud- ed Us. After thefe things, the MiniCters eommiffioned for the Review of the Liturgy ^ in their account of that Bufinds, thus addrefi themfelves to His Majefty; "Though the cf Reverend Bifhops have not had time to confider of our c€ Additions to the Liturgy, and of coir Reply } We hum- w bly crave that it may be confidered before a Determi- nation be made. Though wefeemto have laboured in cc vain 5 weft)alUaythi§ Work of Reconciliation at Bfifl* cc Majefties feet. We rr\uft believe , that ivheti YonrMa- cc jefty took oyr Confent 40 a Liturgy to be a Foundati- on, thaf wouJd infer our Concord} Tou meatatxiot, iJhat Co the unreafbnable ftiffhefs and harfhncfs of In- feriors, may keep them from that compliance in prdftitei which their Confcience (becalm'd from Pafiion and Pre- judice ) would not gainfay. A fcrvile, fawning, tempori- zing Spirit, is vile enough 5 but that which is fedate, cafti- gate, andfubdued toRcafcn,is not only pleating to Go- vernours, but alfo of great avail for Publick Peace. Every Chriftianlhould be deeply fenfible of the com- mon Intereft of Reformed Chriftianity , which is incom- parably more valuable then thofe private Opinions, and little narrow Models ,- which may have much cf his fancy and affe&ion. Well-friinded peifons may eafily be decei- ved touching their private Sentiments in Religion. They may think they are under the uncontrolable Sway of Con- fcience, when indeed they are but bound up by Cuftom, Education , Complexion , or tome other kind of Preju- dice. For ones own lake, one would gladly be rid of fucfi Confinements, and walk more at liberty : But much more fhould one ftrive to be as comprehensive as may be , for the common fafety, and advancement of true Religion, which cannot ftand by {uch uncertainty and multiplicity of petty forms, but requires an ample and well-fetled ftate,to defend and propagate it againft the amplitude and potency of the Romiji) Intereft. The prudent and fober fhould not eafily fettle upon fuch Opinions in Church- Order, as will never fettle the Nation, but tend rather to infinite perplexity and difcompofiire. Howfbever, I will not bear too hard upon any thing that may fairly pretend to Confcience , which, though er- roneous, (hould not be harthly dealt with, Neverthelefs, if (when all is faid J feme diflatisfa&ion doth invincibly pollefs the Judgment, in that cafe Chriftian Humility and Charity , as well as Difcretion , advifeth (uch perfons to acquiefce in their private Security and Freedom, and not to (Ao) to read) aflfer that Liberty that mayunfettle the Publick Order, and undermine the Common Safety, SECT. XX. Thk Comprehenjivz State of Religion further conjtclered^ivith refpefi to Three- important Interejts : Firfl to that of the KING. J FOB. the removing of all conceived Prejudices 3 let this defired Latitude of Religion 5 be confidered with refpedi to the feveral Jnterefts'of thc c King D of the Church and Clergy 5 and of the Nobility arid Gentry* Firft let it be examined in reference to the Interefl: of Regal Ma- jefty. The Non-conformiftS) and others inclinable to their way, arc by (bme charged vvithfuch Principles as detraft much from Kingly Power and Dignity 3 and tend to advance Popular Faftion. . It isconfefled, they have been eager Aflcrtors of Legal Liberties; yet herein they were not lin- gular, butin almoftali PARLIAMENTS have had the concurrence of many good Patriots that were not touch'd with the leaft tindcureof Puritanifm. Theyprofeft much affeftionto MONARCHY, and the Royal Family ^ and think they have made it appear by their hazardous deck- ring againft the defigned Death of our late Soveraign^and their vigorous Aftingsfor theReftitution of His Majefty that now is. They are fo well fatisfied., as none more D in the Ancient Fundamental Conftitution of this Kingdom. This Arraignment of their (uppofed Principles about Government, may haply proceed upon Miftake. There is reafon enough to think. That the many late Difputes about Prerogative and Liberty , are Controverfi&orta non prima 3 that they had their rife from fbenething elfe, which lyes at the bottom. Both former and prefent times do (40 do ftew 3 That the AnthfnriUn Intereft , when oca icrves 5 and the urgency of Affairs requires, can conteft with Princes 5 and pretend Confcience too., in croffing their De- figns. Inclinations and Interefts, more then Speculative O- pinious, will be found to have born the fw ay, and caufed thofe aftive motions on the one hand, and the other. Theft Dogmata or Piobleraes about Obedience and Government, do but little, where mens Affe&ions and Concernments do not give them fpiritand vigor. The practical Judgment of Inferiors, hath a bias in this cafe, according to their Superiors Benignity or Afperity towards them. High drains of fpeech may eafijy proceed from (iich as flatter their Go- vernors 3 or know not themfelves, but they are worthy of credit , that fpeak credible things.- The wife man faith 3 He that repeat eth a matter ^feparateth very friends. A looking back to former diftords , marrs the pioft hopeful Redintegration. A&sof Indempnity,are A&s of Oblivion alfo, and mufti be lb obferved. Let not the way of Peace be barrd by the framing of fuch Tefts as may perplex the minds of men , but add no real fecurity to the Higher Powers. For as fomefet their wits a pvork in framing , fo do others in evading the defigns of fuch Engagements/ Andofithofe that devife how to evade them., fame may deal feriouOy , and others perhaps may tri-. tie with Confidence 5 but the internal Judgments of both remain what they were before. The common Evafions or Violations of (u«h bonds among all parties in our thnes, r do fhew ,: Thatthey are not the way to roc tout inveterate Opinions. But there is a furer way to obviate the evil ten-: dency of fiich Opinions , and to render them ineffectual* For it is not this or that narrow conception or notion, but fbme greater thing , that rules the aftions of humane life. The condition of the diflatisfied, may without damage 5 or juftfcandaltoany, be made fuch, That their far greater G num- ao number fhall not long for changes, but gladly embrace pre- fent things $ and then the implacably evil-minded would want matter to work upon 5 and reft without hope of di- fturbingthc Publick Peace. Moreover, all Loyal Principles are not inclofed in (bme Pofitions 5 in which may be much variety and uncertainty of opinion , and in which both Theological and Political Ca- fuifts(and they great Ailertors of Monarchical Govern- ment) have written doubtfully. Men of different appre- ftenfions in fuch things, may be indued with the fame pru- dence, (bbernefs, common charity , love of Publick Tran- quility, reverence of Regal Majefty, confcience of Allegi- ance 3 and an awful regard of Divine and Humane Laws. Men of nicer Judgments , may have as loyal hearts as thofe of greater latitude. And why fhould the judgments of fuch men be rack'd, and their fpirits vexed with cu- rious fcrutinies ? The ancient Sacred Bonds of Fidelity, are not queftioned} and if they do not y what others can oblige and awe theContcicnce ? The extent of Prerogatives Royal , of the Priviledges of PARLIAMENTS, and of the Peoples Immunities, is not matter fit for common difquifition, but requires to be kept among the Secrets of Government. It might have been far better, if the(e points had been more gently and warily handled on all fides. The Enghjfj ( in general ) are an ingenuous and open-hearted people 5 and if un- lucky accidents difcompofe them not, they are of them- felves difpofed to have their Kings in great veneration^ and doubtlefs their (atisfa&ion and good eftate D is their Soveraigns true repofe. SECT, C 43 ) SECT. XXI. Secondly, to the Inter eft of theChtrch and Clergy. IN the next place, let this Comprehenfiveftate be exami- ned, with refpeft to the Intereft of the church of Eng- land. The Doftrineof Faith and Sacraments by Law efta- bliftied, is heartily received by the Non-conformifts , and it is like to be theBafis of their (landing in England > as long as Proteftant Religion ftands. - How far they ap- prove Epifcopacy and Liturgy , hath been above declared. Their diflent is infbme parts of Divine Worfhip ( as they fay) not appointed of God, but devifed by men, alfo m the frame of the EngliJI) Hierarchy , as it differs from the Ancient Epifcopacy 5 and they avow they are under no obligation to extirpate or impeach that ancient Form. The Minifters of rfiis Perfwafion are Godly and Learned , able and apt to teach the people } and no fiiiall part of the Con- gregations in England feel the left of them. Doth the Lord of the Harveft command that fuchLabourers be thi uft out of his Service ? And will the chief Shepherd at his appearing juftifie this ufage of his faithful Servants? The BiQiops and dignified Clergy , and thole of their Perfwafion^ have the advantage of Law and Power. But can they believe that the Church of God in thefe Nations, is terminated in them alone? It is hoped that Chrift hath a larger Intereft in thefe Realms. Shall it be faid of the Englifo Prelacy , That it cannot ftand without the ejection of Thoufmdsof Orthodox , Fious Minifters? Or that it dreads a general diffufionof knowledgin the people? Or that this is a Maxime thereof. No Ceremony , no Bifiop '*> as if the Bifhop's work were at an end , and his ofrce of no force, if Ceremonies were left indifferent ? IsanEc- clefiaftical Government;, that pleads Apoftolical lnftituti- G 2 on. (44) on 3 and Univerfal reception , ib weak and feeble, that godly and peaceable men 3 preaching only the indubita- ble truths of Chriftianity , would undermine it? If any fhould preach what is Schifmatical and Seditious , they are liable to Reftraints and Cenfures, according to their deme- rits. Why will the eftablilhed Clergy refute their Brethren, and fet them at fuch a diftance ? Is it their honour, ftrength 5 or fafety , that fuch men fhould benumbred among their oppofites? The intrinfick and permanent State of Prelacy D is not advanced by thefe prelent Rigors. It is not more rooted in the hearts of people, nor are many gained over that would ftick clofe to it in a time of tryal. The dread, that is of its Cenfures, arifeth from the fubfequent tem- poral Penalties. And however it be, its Chariot drives but heavily. It cannot meafure its ftrength by the number of Conformijls^ among whom there are many that are a reproach unto it, and many that are very indifferent me.n^ and there are the Latitudinarians^ that are accounted but luke-warm Conformijis^ and many that fubmit,may not like the impofing 5 and men may think divers Injunftions(that are not (imply uplawful ) to be burdenfbme and inconve- nient 3 and would be glad to fhake off the yoke. A gi;eat Prelate before the late Warrs, is reported to fay 5 That the Conforming Turitan was the Devil of the Times. And of thole that zealoudy .affect the eftablifhed Order, there are not a few that diiguft the behaviour of Church-men, and are ready to upbraid them with t,he known moderation of many whom they have ejefted 5 yea , the more confidqrate Sons of the Church, do obferve and bewail fuch dangerous mifcarriages by Simony ^ Pluralities^ Non-refdency, and Pro- fanenejs , as threaten a fecond downfall. The world takes notice what men are caft out} and what is the condition of multitudes that are retained in the Service of the Church. There (450 Thercareafort of men of. great. Worth and Reputation in the feveral Orders cf this Kingdom •, that indeed affect Epiicopacv, butfeethe inconvenience and darker of t Severity, and would have things carried with Difcretion and Equity, and are ready to do good offices, for thedepref- fed Party. If the Affairs of the Commonwealth fhould go backwards, can the Clergy alone be at reft in their Ronoi Power and Wealth? Though of later times ft -hath been fa- NeBiJ7jop.no King* yet i^s not evident , That the prefenc frame of Prelacy hath an immutable Intereftin the Regal Name and Power. The Religion of any State vyill (ink, if k be not held up mips venerable Eitimatiori among the peopfley and it can- not be long held in reverence, if it hath neither the reality, nor appearance of Devotion and Sanftity. That which is divefred of the Difguifes and Impoftures of Rov/iJ/j Super- ftition, had need to be fpirited with Life and Power. Minds touch'd with D^evotioq, will lool^ejther to the way of true and real Godlineis, or to the Popifh Bodily Exercife. It is heie fincerely wiftft. That the Clergy may hold their ftate in fafety and honour , That they may never be laid low for yvant of meet Revenue or Dignity 3 That they may always preferve a reverend efteem of jtheir Perfons and Office.. But then the Bifhops muft not be the Head of fuch Minifcers, as for ignorance and lewdnef area fcandal and (corn to their Neighbours ^ nor of fuch as incourage profanenefe 3 and de- prave ferioufnefs and diligence in Religion and (biccnefs of life, under the fcandal of Turnanijm z ¥ anaticifm , orluch jilvenames of reproach... They muft j(o manage^theirGo* vernment,that under it the found knowledg of God ma*v eiicreafe through the fe L^nd 5 that holmeis and righteoufnefs may fiourilli v that their influence may ^iifpuie men *d Jo thofe things thatare honeft, and pure., anc" cor .-r-. tuous^andpraifv-w^orthy. To this may be added tbe ittiiag of (40 of the Church in a due extent, that it may incompafs fo much as may enable it to vanquifh whatfbever is-inconfi- ftcnt with it ; and to keep within compafs whatfoever may be tollerated under it. The great danger and damage which may be dreaded to enfue this moderation,(which nevei thelefs may poffibly not enfue it) is but the cuttjng off fome Luxuriances from fome in the Hjgheft Orders or the fharing among many what was ingrofled by a few. And the Church doth not change for the worfc, if fome diminution of greatnefs in a very few per- fbns makes way for a more general amplitude, (lability and peace} and the Clergy enjoy an Eftate of Power, Plenty and Honour, with left envy and hazard of undermining. SECT. XXII. Thirdly , To the Intereji of the Nobility an d Gentry. THere is another Intereft \ that of the Nobility and Gen* fry, which is worthy of regard in this Inquiry. The Latitude and Liberty here difcburfed 5 is thought to give^too great advantage to the Citizens, and the Commonalty 5 as alfb to make all forts more knowing , and left fer vile h and con- fequently, left obfequibus to the wills of great men. And the doubt is,whether the Nobles and Gentlemen of England can maintain their Authority and Splendor j with the Free- dom of Citizens and the common people. Surely in the times of their Anceilors they were in as much fplendor and power, as they have been in the memory of this Age } and yet in thoie times both Citizens apd Yeomanry were rich and free, brave and worthy in their own rank. And it may be the higher Degrees In England dbuld never be fo advan- ced^ feme have conceited, if the meaner fort were redu- ced to the condition of the French Peafantry . For there is another Spirit in the Bnglrp People, which peradventure may f47) may not be vanquifhed at left charges then diflipationof the ftrengthand riches, an i all the glory of this Land. Be- fides. Trade vvhichis the Life of England^ muft be managed by a people not of aflavifhand fordid condition. And in a Trading Nation, things do fo pafs to and fro, and run from one hand to another 3 that New Men by their Wealth will be always getting up into the rank of Gentlemen, and for- mer Gentile Families will be decaying. There is a Liberty for every i^ativeto purchafe Lands; and though feme of our Tenures began in the Vaflalage of meaner men to great ones 3 yet they are now by cuftomof later Ages, become fo far free, that they are fit for any ingenuous perfons to take them up. Moreover, the Englifi Gentry are Commons , ac- cording to the main frame of this Polity 5 and that great Convention where they meet in their chiefeft Power, is the Commons houje of Parliament , in which they reprefent the univerfality of the Commons of all Counties, and Cities, and Burroughs : And therefore the free Eftate of theCom- mons, is the true Intereft of Gentlemen. And how ground- left and fruitlefs is all evil emulation between the Gentry and Citizens, or Traders! For they mutually uphold each other, or both muft fall to the ground. Many Gentile Fami- lies are the Off- fpring of former Citizens 5 andrnanyCiJ- zensare the (oris of Gentlemen. And when the Eftates of ancient Gentry are finking, their Marriage with Citizens is an ordinary means of underpropping them. And if Tra- ders fail, the Revenue of the Gentry muft fail alfo > whofe Lands did never bear that Price, nor jeeld that Annual Rent that of late they have done 3 till the nation became- great in Foreign Trade. If emulation of Gallantry be any matter of grudg between thern^ the Citizens may leave the Gentry to their own Garbs 5 and retain a grave habit to themfelveSj in which they may fufficiently exprcG their Wealth;, as their Predeceilors did before them. For it is generous Oft guicrousfotodo; And. as for the Nobility and Gen their Honour lyes in upholding; their Families ? and bearing tvvay in their Countries.* and they da the one by dilcrcct ana liberal Frugality:, and the orher by having and ufing greater Abilities theruhe vulgar, for their Countries Ser- vice. i SECT. XXIII. The general r : Security that comes by this Latitude. THE chief Prejudices have been confidered} and theie three Important EhtefBfts bein i\ aright are found not to oppofcybut to require this J MrtjUe of Reli- gion. Furthermore 5 ourcomirh n i and 'Freedom* earneftlyperfvvadesit: For the Severities of Law againft Diflenters, may at length come home to t! ., j or theirs, who take themfdves*tp Be far out of i i r) thereof. * And the inforcbg of thofe Penalties may need fucrj ways and means, as may trouble them who are* tender of the Lawfbl Rights and Liberties of Englifo-xvtm. But the Common Pciice be- ing once firmly fetled in this Comprfehenfive fta'te^il Ncccf- fity of Poiversantipr^&edirigs extraordinary , will difap- .pear,andV^mfhhw%. Finally \ . The more Pacifick we are at" home, the more Powerful- and Formidable fhall we be abroad. But our Breaches are too well known D ahd make little for our Repu- tation or Advantage in Foreign; pans. What can it avail, to 'difturb a : Pc -;ole that would'fettli in peace > and whofe Peace is accommodated to the Publick Weal, and bound up together with it? It muft needs be' fruitlefs and unfortu- nate j andcaufc perplexities and mjfearriages in the chief- eft Affairs of State. It is a faying of the wifeft of Kings, He that troubles his own Houfc > Jljall inhdrit the wind. i FINIS.