Although there were none in the one Kingdome who did adhere to the Covenant, yet thereby were not the other Kingdom nor any person in either of them absolved from the bond thereof, since in it we have not only sworne by the Lord, but also covenanted with him. It is not the failing of one or more that can absolve others from their duty or tye to him; Besides, the duties therein contained, being in themselves lawfull, and the grounds of our tye thereunto moral, though others do forget their duty, yet doth not their defection free us from that obligation which lyes upon us by the Covenant in our places and stations. And the Covenant being intended and entred into by these Kingdoms, as one of the best means of stedfastnesse, for guarding against declining times; It were strange to say that the back-sliding of any should absolve others from the tye thereof, especially seeing our engagement therein is not only nationall, but also personall, every one with uplifted hands swearing by himselfe, as it is evident by the tennor of the Covenant.

From these and other important reasons, it may appear that all these Kingdomes joyning together to abolish that oath by law, yet could they not dispense therewith; Much lesse can any one of them, or any part in either of them doe the same. The dispensing with oathes hath hitherto been abhorred as Antichristian, and never practised and avowed by any, but by that man of sin; therefore those who take the same upon them, as they joyn with him in his sin, so must they expect to partake of his plagues.

As we shall ever (God willing) be mindfull of our duty to the faithfull that adhere to the Covenant in England, having them alwayes in our hearts before the Lord, so we desire to be refreshed with their singlesse and boldnesse in the cause of God, according to their places. This is the time of their triall, and the houre of tentation among them; blessed shall they be who shall be found following the Lamb, and shall not be ashamed of his testimony. We know in such dark houres, many are drawne away with the multitude, whom the Lord will again purge and make white; And we doubt not but many such are in England, whom the bold clear preaching of Christ may reclaim; Much therefore lieth upon the Watch-men all this time, that their Trumpet may give a certain and distinct sound, warning and exhorting every one, as those that must give account; And blessed shall those servants be, who shall be found faithfull in their Lords house, distributing to his houshold what is meet for this season, and can say they are free of the blood of all men, having shewen them the whole Counsell of God, being in nothing terrified of the threats of their adversaries; And blessed & happy shall that people be, that walk in the light holden forth by them, and staye upon the Lord in this dark time, harkning to the voyce of his servants, & walking in the light of his word & not in the sparks of their owne kindlings, which will end in sorrow. How inexcusable will England be, having so foulie revolted against so many faire testimionies, which the Lord Christ hath entred as Protestations to preserve his right, in these ends of the earth long since given unto him for his possession, and of late confirmed by Solemne Covenant. Christs right to these Kingdomes is surer then that he should be pleaded out of it by pretended liberty of Conscience, and his begun possession is more precious to him, then to be satisfied with a dishonourable toleration. All that yet we have seen, doth not weaken our confidence of the Lords glorifying the house of his glory in these lands, and of his sonnes taking unto him his great power, and reigning in the beauty and power of his Ordinances in this Island. His name is wonderfull, and so also are his workes, we ought not therefore to square them according to our line, but leave them to him, who hath the government laid upon his shoulder, all whose wayes are judgement, & whose ruling these Kingdoms had never yet reason to decline. It is good for us to be stedfast in our duty, and therein quietly to wait and hope for the salvation of God. The word of promise is sure, (and hath an appointed time) that he that will come shall come and will not tarry. There is none hath cause to distrust the Lords word to his people; It hath often to our experience been tryed in the fire, and hath ever come forth with a more glorious lustre. Let not therefore these that suffer in England cast away their confidence, they are not the first who have needed patience after that they had done the Lords will. But let them strengthen the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees, and say to the fearfull in heart, be strong, fear not, behold your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence, he will come and save you. Now the just shall live by faith, whereas these that draw back, or become lukewarm in the Lords work, his soul shall abhorre them, and he shall spue them out of his mouth, But we perswade our selves of better things of these our brethren in England, and prayeth that the God of Peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepheard of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting Covenant, may make them perfect in every good work to doe his will, working in them that which is well pleasing in his fight through Jesus Christ, to whom be Glory for ever. AMEN.



Act for a Collection for entertaining Highland Boyes at Schooles.

The Generall Assembly Considering that the contribution of fourty shillings for entertaining of Highland boyes at Schools, in respect of the penury and great indigence of those parts hath not taken the intended effect. Therefore in respect of the necessity and profitablenesse of so pious a work The Assembly in lieu of the said fourty shillings Do Appoint and Ordain that there be an extraordinary Collection at the Kirk doors for that use one Sabbath in the year: And to that effect, that a certain Sabbath yearly be appointed and designed whereupon that collection shall be gathered, intimation being made by the Minister the Sabbath before to prepare for such a collection, and the necessity and usefulnesse thereof being laid out to the people for that end. And if the collection in any little private Congregation shall be lesse then fourty shillings, The Session shall make up what wants of fourty shillings; And where the collection is more, it is hereby specially inhibited and discharged that any part thereof be retained or interverted to any other use whatsomever; and these Collections shall be sent to the persons formerly appointed to receive the fourty shillings, that they may see the right distribution and employment thereof; Recommending the Presbyteries see this punctually performed. And accompt thereof shall be craved at Synods and Generall Assemblies. It is alwayes to be remembred that the Congregations exeemed from the fourty shillings are also exeemed from this Collection.



Commission for a conference of Ministers, Lawyers and Physitians, Concerning the tryal and punishment of Witch-craft, Charming and Consulting.

The Generall Assembly Taking to their serious consideration the growth of the sins of Witchcraft, Charming and Consulting, notwithstanding the frequent Recommendations for restraining thereof; And remembring that the Generall Assembly 1647. did propose a good way for the tryal and punishment of these sinnes, by appointing conferences with some Ministers, Lawyers and Physitians in that matter which hath never yet taken effect; Therefore the Assembly doth appoint Masters, Robert Dowglas, Robert Blair, Mungo Law, James Hammilton, John Smith, Robert Traill, George Leslie, John Hamilton, Iohn Duncan, Samuel Rutherfoord, James Wood, Iohn Leviston, Iames Guthrie, Andro Cant, David Calderwood, Iohn Moncreiff, Frederick Carmichael, Iames Durhame, Patrick Gillespie, Robert Ker, Ephraim Melvil, Ministers, To consider seriously of that matter, and to consult and advise therein amongst themselves, As also with Sir Archibald Iohnston of Wariston, Clerk Register, Mr Thomas Nicolson his Majesties Advocate, Mr Alexander Peirson, one of the ordinary Lords of Session, Sir Lewes Stewart, Mr Alexander Colvil, and Mr Iames Robertson Iustice Deputes, Masters Rodger Mowit, John Gilmoir, and Iohn Nisbet, Laweers; and with Doctors Sibbald, Cunninghame, and Purves, Physitians severally or together as occasion shall offer; And the Assembly earnestly requests & confidently expects from their learned and Iudicious Lawyres and Physitians beforenamed, their best endeavours and concurrence with their brethren of the Ministrie for advise and counsell herein, and for conference in the said matter; And Ordaine the said brethren to make report of the result of their consultations and conferences from time to time as they make any considerable progresse to the Commission for publick affaires, And the said Commission shall make report to the next Generall Assembly.



Recommendation for maintenance for Schoolmasters and Precenters.

The Generall Assembly do humbly Recommend to the Parliament or Committee for plantation of Churches, that whatever either in Paroches of Burghs or Landwart, was formerly given to the maintenance of these who were readers precentors in Congregations, and teachers of Schooles before the establishing of the Directory for publick Worship, may not be in whole or in part alienat or taken away, but reserved for the maintenance of sufficient schoolmasters and precentors who are to be approven by the Presbyterie; And Presbyteries are hereby required to see that none of that maintenance given to the foresaid uses or in use to be payed thereunto before the establishing of the Directory of Worship, to be drawn away from the Church.



Acts concerning Persons to be admitted Bursars.

The Assembly doe hereby Ordaine That none be sent to Universities from Presbyteries, nor be admitted as Bursers of divinitie, but pious youths, and such as are known to be of Good expectation and approven abilities.



Reference to the Commission for publick affaires for re-examining the Paraphrase, of the Psalmes and the emitting the same for publicke use.

The General Assembly having taken some view of the new Paraphrase of the Psalmes in meeter with the corrections and animadversions thereupon sent from several Persons and Presbyteries, and finding that they cannot overtake the review and examination of the whole in this Assembly; Therefore now after so much time and so great paines about the correcting, and examining thereof from time to time some yeares bygone, that the worke may come now to some conclusion, They do ordain the Brethren appointed for perusing the same during the meeting of this Assembly, viz. Masters James Hammilton, Iohn Smith, Hew Mackall, Robert Traill, George Hutcheson, and Robert Lawrie, after the dissolving of this Assembly to goe on in that worke carefully, And to report their travels to the Commission of the Generall Assembly for publick affaires at ther meeting at Edinburgh in November; And the said Commission after perusall and re-examination thereof, is hereby authorised with full power to conclude and establish the Paraphrase, and to publish and emit the same for publick use.



Letter to the Kings Majestie.

Most gracious Soveraigne,

Wee your Majesties most humble and Loyall Subjects, the Commissioners from all the Presbyteries in this your Majesties ancient Kingdome, and members of this present Nationall Assembly, Having expected to finde at our meeting, a gracious and Satisfactory returne to those humble representations made to your Majestie at the Hague, by the Commissioners of this Kirk, cannot but expresse our great sorrow and griefe, that your Majesties goodnes has been so far abused, As that not only the just and necessary desires presented by them to your Majestie, which so much concerne the glory of God, your owne honour and happinesse, the peace and safety of your Kingdomes, are utterly frustrated, as wee perceive by the paper delivered in answer to them; but also this Assembly hath not received so much as any signification by letter of your Majesties minde: Which princely condescension had not wont to be wanting in your Royall Father, to former Generall Assemblyes, even in times of greatest distance.

Our witnesse is in heaven, and record on high, that wee are not conscious to our Selves of any undutifull thought or disloyall affection, that might have procured this at your Majesties hands; And that, as wee doe from our hearts abominate and detest that horrid fact of the Sectaryes against the life of your Royall Father our late Soveraigne, So it is the unfained and earnest desire of our soules, that the Ancient Monarchicall government of these Kingdoms, may be established and flourish in your Majesties person all the dayes of your life, and be continued in your royall Family which by divine providence hath without interruption raigned over us and our predecessors for so many Generations since the time that we were a Kingdom, And that there is nothing under the glory of God, and cause of our Lord Jesus Christ, for which wee doe more heartily solicit the throne of grace, Or would more readily expose unto hazard all that is deare to us in the world, then for this. And now though this very great discouragement might incline us to hold our peace at this time, Yet the tendernesse and uprightnesse of our affection and Love to your Majesties happinesse (which many waters cannot quench) together with the Conscience of our duty which Our Lord and Master has laid upon us, in this our place and station, constraineth us, yea, and your Majesties owne goodnesse and gracious disposition, whereof the late Commissioners have given us so Large a testimony, Doth much encourage us, to renew our addresses to your Majestie in this humble faithfull representation, both of the great and growing dangers to your Royall person and Throne, and of these duties, which the Lord of Lords and King of Kings, call for from you, as you would look to finde favour in his eyes, and to be delivered out of your deepe distresses.

Our hearts are filled with fears and troubles, in your Majesties behalf, when we look upon the sad calamities which have been already produced by such wayes and courses, as we perceive your Majestie is entred, and in danger to be further led away into, by the prevalency of evill Councell upon your tender age: Particalarly, Your refusing to give satisfaction to the just and necessary desires of the people of God, for advancing the work of Reformation of Religion, and establishing and securing the same in your Majesties Dominions, which is nothing else, but to oppose the Kingdome of the Sonne of God, by whom Kings doe raigne, and to refuse that he should raigne over you and your Kingdomes in his pure Ordinances of Church government and Worship; Your cleaving unto these men as your trustiest Counsellors, who, as they never had the glory of God, nor good of his people before their eyes, so now in all their wayes and Counsels, are seeking nothing but their owne interests, to the hazard of the utter subversion of your Throne, the ruine of your Royall Family, and the desolation of your Kingdomes; Your owning the practises, and intertaining the Person of that flagicious man, and most justly excommunicate Rebell, James Graham, who has exercised such horrid cruelty upon your best Subjects in this Kingdom, which cannot but bring upon your Throne, the guiltinesse of all the innocent blood shed by him and his Complices; and above all, that, which we cannot think upon without trembling of heart and horrour of spirit, Your setling of late such a Peace with the Irish Papists the Murderers of so many thousands of your Protestant Subjects, whereby not only they are owned as your good Loyall Subjects, but also there is granted unto them (contrary to the Standing Lawes of your Royall Progenitors, contrary to the commandment of the most high God, and to the high contempt and dishonor of his Majestie, and evident danger of the Protestant Religion) a full liberty of their abominable Idolatry; which cannot be otherwise judged, but a giving of your Royal power and strength unto the beast, and an accession to all that blood of your good Subjects, wherewith those Sonnes of Babell have made that Land to swim.

We do in all humility beseech your Majestie to consider & lay to heart what the mouth of the Lord of Hosts hath spoken of all the accompts of People, Nations, Kings, and Rulers against the Kingdom of his Son, that they imagine a vaine thing and that he that sitteth in heaven will have them in dirision and vex them in his sore displeasure. Consider, how he hath blasted and turned upside downe these yeares by past, all the devices and plots of those men that now beare the Swey in your Majesties Counsels: Consider, how the anger of God has been kindled, even against his dearest Saints, when they have joyned themselves to such men as he hateth and has cursed: Consider, how severely hee hath threatned and punished such Kings as have associate with Idolaters, and leaned unto their helps. Surely, great is the wrath of God, whereof you are in danger; And yet the Lord in the riches of his goodnesse, forbearance and long suffering, is waiting to be gracious to your Majestie; To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your heart, but humble your self under the mighty hand of God, lamenting after him as, for the iniquities of your Fathers house, especially the opposition against the reformation of Religion and Cause of God, the permitting and practising Antichristian Idolatry in the Royall Family it self, and the shedding of so much blood of the people of God, so also, for your owne entering to walke in the like courses in the beginning of your raign. It is high time to fall downe before the Throne of grace, seeking to get your peace made with God through Jesus Christ whose blood is able to wash away all your sins, To walk no longer in the Councel of the ungodly, nor cleave to such as seeke their own things and not the things of Jesus Christ, nor the welfare of your Subjects and Government, but to set your eyes upon the faithfull in your dominions, that such may dwell with you, & be the men of your Councells, To serve the Lord in feare, and kisse the Sonne of God, by a sincere and cordiall contributing your Royall allowance and authority, for establishing in all your dominions the reformation of Religion, in Doctrine, Worship, and Government as it is now agreed upon according to the cleare & evident warrant of the word of God, by the Assembly of Divines at Westminster, and the Generall Assemblies of this Church; And also, laying aside that service book, which is so stuffed with Romish corruptions, And conforming your owne practise and the worship of God in your Royall Family, to that Gospell simplicity and purity which is holden forth from the word of God, in the Directory of worship, and not only to grant your Royall approbation to the Covenant of these three Kingdomes (without which, your people can never have from you sufficient security, either for Religion, or their just liberties) but also your selfe to joyne with your people therein as the greatest security under Heaven for your person and just greatness, and to cause all of them stand to it by your Royall Command, according to the practise of that gracious King Josiah, to whom, wee wish your Majestie in these your younger yeares, and this beginning of your raigne, to look as to an ensample and Kingly portract approven of God. These things if your Majestie do; As wee are well assured, that the hearts of all your good Subjects in these Kingdomes will be enlarged with all cheerfulnesse to imbrace your person, and submit unto your Royall Government, so wee darre promise in the Name of our Lord, that you shall finde favour with God, peace and joy unspeakable and full of glory to your Soule, and deliverance out of your sad afflictions and deep distresses in due time: But if your Majestie shall go on in refusing to hearken to wholesome Councels; We must for the discharge of our Conscience tell your Majestie in the humility and griefe of our hearts, that the Lords anger is not turned away, but his hand stretched out still against you and your Family. But we hope and shall with all earnestnesse and constancy pray for better things from, and to your Majestie: And whatsoever misconstruction (by the malice of those that desire not a right understanding and cordiall conjunction between your Majestie and this Kirk and Kingdome) may be put upon our declaration; Yet wee have the Lord to be our witnesse, that our purpose and intention therein is no other, but to warne and keepe the people of God committed to our care, that they runne not to any course which would bring upon themselves the guilt of highest perjury and breach of Covenant with God, and could not but prove most dangerous to your Majestie and your Government, and involve you in shedding the blood of those who are most desirous to preserve your Majesties Person, and just right in all your dominions. And now wee doe with all earnestnes beseech your Majestie, that you will follow the courses of truth and peace; And that when there is a doore opened for your Majestie to enter to your Royall Government over us, in peace, with the favour of God, and cordiall Love and imbracings of all your good Subjects, You will not suffer your selfe to be so farre abused and misled by the Councels of men, who delight in war, as to take away of violence and blood, which cannot but provoke the most high against your Majestie, and alienat from you the hearts of your best Subjects, who desire nothing more, than that your Majestie may have a long and happy raign over them, And that they may live under you, a peaceable and quiet life, in all Godlinesse and honesty.

Edinburgh 6 August, 1649.

Your Majesties most Loyal Subjects and humble servants the Ministers and Elders conveened in this Nationall Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland.



The Generall Assembly not having now time to consider the Reference of preceeding Assemblies, and the most part of Presbyteries not having sent their opinions in writ; Thefore do yet againe recommend to Presbyteries and Provinciall Assemblies to consider all matters referred by this or by any former Assemblies, And to send their opinions therein in writ to the next Generall Assembly.

The meeting of the next Generall Assembly is hereby appointed to be at Edinburgh, the second wednesday of July, 1650.

A. KER

FINIS



THE PRINCIPAL ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND HOLDEN AT EDINBURGH THE 16TH DAY OF OCTOBER 1690.



Edinburgh 16 of October 1690. Post Meridiem. Sess. 1.



I. The Meeting of the General Assembly, and the Recording of Their Majesties Commission, to John Lord Carmichael, for Representing Their Majesties therein.

This day, being a day of Solemn Fasting and Humiliation, the General Assembly of the Ministers and Elders of this Church; did after Sermons (in the Forenoon by Mr. Gabriel Cunningham Moderator of the last General Meeting, and in the Afternoon by Mr. Patrick Sympson Moderator of the preceding General Meeting) Conveen in the Assembly-House at Edinburgh, according to the Indiction of an Act of the current Parliament, dated the 7 day of June last, and Directions given by the late General Meeting of the Ministers and Elders of this Church: And after Prayer, there was produced to them, by an Noble Lord John Lord Carmichael, Their Majesties Commission, for his being Their Majesties High Commissioner and Representative to this General Assembly, Dated at Kensingtoun the 10 day of October 1690. Which was with all due Respect publickly read: And Mr. Gabriel Cuningham, Moderator for the time, did in the Assemblies Name, Represent to his Grace, how Great a Mercy it was, to this Church and Kingdom, that Their Majesties had Countenanced this Assembly, with Their Authority, and Honoured it with a Representative of Their Royal Persons: And the Assemblies great Satisfaction, with Their Majesties choice of a person so well Qualified, and so Acceptable to this Assembly, to Represent Their Majesties therein. To whom His Grace was pleased to give this return, That it was his firm Resolution, in the Capacity, wherein Their Majesties had now put him, to lay out himself for their Majesties Service, and the good of the Church. The Assembly appointed the said Commission to be Recorded in Their Books, Ad futuram res Memoriam: The Tenour whereof follows.

GULIELMUS & MARIA, Dei Gratia, Magnae Britannia, Francia & Hibernia, Rex & Regina, Fideique Defensores, Omnibus probis Hominibus, ad quos praesentes Literae; Nostrae pervenerint, Salutem. Quandoquidem per actum, in secunda Sessione Currentis hujus nostri Parliamenti, Expeditum, De stabiliendo Ecclesiae Regimine, in antiquiori hoc nostro Scotiae Regno; Primum Ecclesiaeillius Generalem Conventum, Edinburghi, Tertio die Jovis, Mensis Octobris Instantis, teneri Ordinavimus: Nosautem (Rebus magni Momenti alio vocantibus) In dicto Conventu interesse nequimus: Abunde vero Cupidi, ut Idem Generalis Conventus, ad Religionem veram Reformatam melius firmandam, Pietatem & Sanctitatem Propagandam, Pacem itaque & Unitatem, in dicta Ecclesia, & hoc nostro antiquiore Regno acquirendam; methodo debita & Regulari, Observetur: Cumque Testimoniis perplurimis & probatis, nobis abunde satisfactum sit, de Praeclaris animi dotibus, & fide eximia, fidelisslimi & dilectissimi nostri Consiliarii. Joannis Domini Carmichael, quibus ad summae fiduciae Munus infra expressum, debite & exacte obeundum & excercendum, usque quaque est adaptatus: Noveritis igitur nos Nominasse & Constituisse, sicuti per hasce nostras Patentes Literas, Nominamus & Constituimus Eundem Joannem Dominum Carmichael, Supremum nostrum Commissionarium, quoad effectum intra expressum: Damus pariter & concedimus illi, sacram Nostram Personam & Authoritatem Regiam Repraesentandi, ac pro nobis praesentiam faciendi, locumque nostrum in subsequenti Generali Conventu, Tanquam Commissionario nostro, in hunc effectum specialiter Constitute, tenendi: Omniaque alia ad Imperium & Munus Commissionarii, pro Generali Ecclesiae conventu peragendi, tam plene, adeoque libere, in quovis Respectu, quam Quilibet alius ejusdem Muneris & Characteris, fecerat, seu quovis tempore retroacto facere potuerat, atque adeo sicuti Nosmet ipsi personaliter praesentes Possemus. Plenissimam & amplissimam Nostram Potestatem & Commissionem. Quaequidem omnia & singula, a dicto Joanne Domino Carmichael, In hac nostra Commissione prolequenda, legitime facienda, Nos firmiter approbamus, Rata habemus, & habituri sumus. Omnibus & singulis insuper antedicti Conventus, & Ecclesiae Pastoribus & Presbyteris, ac Caeterii quibuscumque hujus Nostri Regni Subditis, cujuscunque ordinis seu conditionis, ut eundem Joannem Dominum Carmichael, tanquam Supremum Nostrum Commissionarium, quoad effectum & modum supra mentionatum, agnoscant, Colant, & dicto ipsius audientes se praebeant, stricte Mandamus & Imperamus. Et denique hanc Nostram Commissionem, a die quo Magnum hujus Regni Nostri Sigillum, Presentibus est appensum, ac durante Prima dicti Generalis Conventus Sessione, aut usque donec haec Nostra Commissio per nos Revocetur, Continuare Declaravimus, ac per Praesentes Declaramus. In cujus rei Testimonium, Praesentibus Magnum Sigillum Nostrum appendi Mandavimus, Apud aulam Nostram de Kensingtoun, decimo die mensis Octobris, Anno Domini 1690. Regnique nostri, Anno secundo.

Per signaturam manu S.D.N. Regis supra Signatam.

(locus figilli appensi)

IN DORSO:

Sealed at Edinburgh the 16th of October 1690. Alex. Inglis.

Written to the Great Seal, and Registr at the 16 day of October 1690. Dun. Ronald Dpt.



Edinburgh 17 October 1690. Ante Meridiem Sess. 2.



II. His MAJESTIES Gracious Letter to the Assembly.

This Session, His Majesties Gracious Letter Direct to this General Assembly, was publickly Read and Heard with great Respect; and appointed to be Recorded in the Books of the Assembly, The Tenour whereof follows.

WILLIAM R.

Reverend, Trusty and Well Beloved,

Our Concern for the Good of Our Ancient Kingdom, hath been such, That We have left nothing undone, that might Contribute to the making of it Happy: And therefore having been informed, that Differences as to the Government of the Church have caused greatest Confusions in that Nation; We did willingly concurre with Our Parliament, in In-acting such a Frame of it, as was judged to be most agreeable to the Inclinations of Our Good Subjects: To which as We have had a particular Regard, in Countenanceing this Assembly, With Our Authority, and a Representative of Our Royall Person; So We expect, that Your Managment shall be such, as We shall have no reason, to Repent of what we have done. A Calm and Peaceable Procedure, will be no less pleasing to Us, than it becometh You. We never could be of the Mind, that Violence was suited to the advancing of True Religion; Nor do We intend, that Our Authority shall ever be a Tool, to the irregular Passions of any Party. Moderation is what Religion enjoynes, Neighbouring Churches expect from You, and We Recommend to You. And We assure You of Our constant Favour and Protection, in Your following of these Methods, which shall be for the real advantage of True Piety, and the Peace of Our Kingdoms. Given under our Royal Hand, At our Court at Kensingtoun, the 10 day of October 1690.

By His Majesties Command,

MELVIL.

Direct,

For the Reverend, Trusty and Wel-Beloved, Ministers and Elders, met in the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. At Edinburgh.



Edinburgh 18th. October 1690. Post Meridiem Sess. 4.



III. The Assemblies Answer to His Majesties Gracious Letter.

May it please your Majesty,

Your Gracious Letter, Direct to the Ministers and Elders met here, in the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland was Read and Heard among Us, with all Joy and Thankfulness, that the Rising and Shining again of the Royal Favour, upon this long Afflicted and distressed Church, could possibly Inspire: For as Your Majesties Concern for the Good of this Your Ancient Kingdom, hath indeed been such, as nothing can impair the Happy State whereunto You have Restored it, save the want of the due sense and understanding of so great a Mercy; So We doe most heartily acknowledge, that through Your Majesties Care and Kindness, the Church of Christ therein, doth equally partake of the same Blessing. It was the sad Confusions, that differences as to the Government of the Church, had caused in this Nation, that according to Your Majesties first Declaration, for our Relief, moved our Gracious God, to Raise up and Prosper You, to Be our Glorious Deliverer, for Effectuating the Reestablishment that we now enjoy: So that we are perswaded, that it is not more Agreeable, to the Inclinations and Conscientious Perswasions of all within this Kingdom, who are best Affected to Your Majesties Person and Government, than it is acceptable to God, and will be Your Majesties perpetual Peace and Satisfaction. Nor are we less Sensible of the particular Regard, Your Majestie professeth towards us, on this occasion, in Countenancing this Assembly, with Your Authority, and a Representative of Your Royal Person; for which we most humbly acknowledge Your Gracious Favour; especially that it hath pleased Your Majesty, to fix Your Choice, upon a Person so well Qualified, and so acceptable to Us. And now, Great Sir, after so many and so great Mercies and Favours, Received from God and Your Majesty; We Hope we may with Confidence assure You, that our Managment shall be such, as Your Majesty hath so just Reason to expect, and shall never give you cause to Repent of what You have done for Us. The God of Love, the Prince of Peace, with all the Providences that have gone over Us, and Circumstances that We are under, as well as Your Majesties most obliging Pleasure, Require of Us a Calme and Peaceable Procedure, And if after the Violence for Conscience sake, that We have Suffered, and so much Detested, and these Grievious Abuses of Authority, in the late Reigns, Whereby through some Mens Irregular Passions, We have so sadly Smarted; We our selves, should Lapse into the same Errours, We should certainly prove the most Unjust towards God, Foolish towards our Selves, and Ungrate towards Your Majesty, of all Men on earth. Great Revolutions of this nature, must be attended, with Occasions of Complaint: And even the worst of Men, are Ready to cry out of Wrong, for their justest Deservings: But as Your Majesty Knows these things too well, to give us the least Apprehension of any impressions evil Report can make; So We assure Your Majesty, as in the Presence of God, and in expectation of his dreadfull Appearance, that We shall Study that Moderation, which Your Majesty Recommends, as being convinced, that it is the Duty that Religion enjoyns, and Neighbouring Churches doe most justly expect from Us: Desiring in all things, to Approve our selves unto God, as the true Disciples of Jesus Christ, who, though most Zealous, against all Corruptions in his Church, was most Gentle towards the Persons of Men: And to maintain as much as in us lyes, Peace and Concord with all the Reformed Churches: As likewise to comply in all obsequious Duty, with all that Your Majesty enjoynes, for the Real Advantage of true Piety, and the Peace or all Your Kingdoms. Heartily wishing, that God, who hath Graciously brought back Your Majesties Person, in Safety, from Your Late, no less Generous, than Dangerous Expedition, for his Cause and Truth, with joyfull Success; May still preserve Your Majesty, and Our most Gracious Queen; Granting You long Life, Health, and Prosperity, And may Establish Your Throne, and Bless Your Government, to the Glory of His Great Name, the Good of all his Churches, and the welfare of all Your People. Which shall ever be the earnest Prayer of,

May it please Your Majesty, Your Majesties most Faithful, most Obedient and most Humble Subjects.

Signed in our Presence, in our Name, and at our Appointment, By HU. KENNEDIE Moderator.



IV. Appointment of a Diet, to be kept by the Assembly for Prayer.

The General Assembly Appoints Monday next, betwixt Eight and Twelve a Clock in the Forenoon, to be set a part for Prayer, by the Members of this Assembly: And Recommends to all the Members, to meet in the Assembly-House for that end, at Eight a Clock in the Morning.



Edinburgh 25th. October 1690. Ante Meridiem. Sess. 9.



V. The proceedings of the Assembly, anent Mr. Thomas Lining and Others.

The General Assembly, having received a Report, from the Committee of Overtures, anent two Papers given in to the said Committee, and Subscribed by Mr. Thomas Lining, Mr. Alexander Shields and Mr. William Boyd, who had followed some Courses contrary to the Order of this Church; whereby, "The said Committee out of their ardent Desire of Union in the Church, Recommend to the Assembly, the Reading of the Shorter of these two Papers: In which the fore-named Persons Oblige themselves after the exhibiting of the larger Paper (which they offer, as they profess, for the Exoneration of their Consciences) and laying it down at the Assemblies feet, to be Disposed upon as the Assembly should think fit: That they shall in all required Submission, subject Themselves, their Lives and Doctrine, to the Cognizance of the Respective Judicatories of this Church, and equally to Oppose Schism and Defection, in any Capacity, that they should be capable of. But the said Committee, Judgeth, the Reading of the larger of the saids two Papers, in full Assembly, to be Inconvenient: In regard, That though there be several good Things in it, yet the same doth also contain, several Peremptory and gross Mistakes, Unseasonable and Impracticable Proposals, and Uncharitable and Injurious Reflections, tending rather to kindle Contentions, than to compose Divisions: Nevertheless, the said Committee, gives it as their Opinion, That the foresaid Offer of the above named Persons their Subjection and Obedience, to the Authority of this Church, in her Respective Judicatories, contained in the said Shorter Paper; should be Entertained and Accepted of, by the Assembly, and they Received into Communion with this Church, according to their several Capacities."

Likeas the above named persons, having Compeared, in presence of the Assembly, and Judicially Owned and Adhered unto their said Shorter Paper: And the Assembly having heard the above-written Report, of the Committee of Overtures concerning both the saids Papers; As also the said shorter Paper, Read in their Presence; The General Assembly, after mature Deliberation, did Unanimously, and without a contrary Vote, Approve the above written Report and Opinion of the Committee of Overtures, in the hail Heads thereof. Which being Intimate to the fore-named Persons, they Acquiesced thereto. Upon all which the following Act was made.



Act anent Mr. Thomas Lining and Others.

Whereas Mr. Thomas Lining, Mr. Alexander Schields and Mr. William Boyd, have presented to this Assembly two Papers: One containing the Expressions of their Purpose and Promise, of being subject to the Authority of this Church, as formerly Constituted, and now Restored, in its several Judicatories: The other Offered for the Exoneration of their Consciences. Which Paper, containing their Submission and Subjection, did after the exhibition of the other to the Assembly, Become Binding upon them, according to the Promise therein made. Likeas, after that other and longer Paper had been Read, before the Committee of Overtures, It was exhibite to and received by the Assembly; together with the Reasons from the said Committee why it should not be Publickly read in full Assembly. Which Reasons being duely considered, and the said other Paper of Submission and Subjection publickly Read, and Judicially Owned by the forenamed Persons, in presence of the Assembly: The Assembly did conclude by one single Vote, that the foresaid longer Paper should not be Read: And that the above named Persons should be Received into the Fellowship of this Church, on the Terms of Submission and Subjection contained in the Shorter Paper: And after passing of the said Vote, and that they were gravely Admonished by the Moderator to walk Orderly in time coming, in Opposition to all Schisme and Division; It was declared to them, by the Moderator, in the Name of the Assembly, That the Assembly did receive them into the Fellowship of this Church, to enjoy the priviledges thereof, and Perform the Duties therein, whereof they are, or shall be found Capable. Whereupon, and at their desire, it was ordained that this Act should be made; and an Extract thereof given to them in good Form. Follows the Tenour of the said shorter Paper.

To the Moderator and Remanent Members of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.

Right Reverend and Honourable,

"With the greatest Earnestness of longing we have desired, and yet with a Patience perhaps to excess, we have waited, for an Opportunity, to bring our unhappy Differences (of which, all Parties concerned are weary) to a Happy and Holy close; And for this end to have access to apply our selves to a full and free General Assembly of this Church, invested with Authority and Power, in foro Divino & Humano, to Determine and Cognosce upon them. The want of which an Assembly constitute in that vigour, to which through the Mercy of God, This Venerable National Synod hath arrived, hath been the greatest let and impediment of our composing these Differences, in a way, wherein not only we, but all of the same Sentiments would acquiesce. Now having obtained this much longed, and long Prayed for priviledge; We cannot forbear any longer, humbly, to Accost and Address this Venerable Assembly, with a free and Ingenuous Representation of our Minds and Desires. The scope of which is, to Represent these things, which have been most stumbling to us, for the exoneration of our Consciences; and to declare our Design, after we have exhibited our Testimony against these Courses, which we understand to have been Corruptions and Defections in this Church, And laid it down at the Assemblies feet, to be disposed of, as their Wisdoms shall think fit: That we shall in all Required Submission, Subject our Selves, our Lives and Doctrine, to the Cognizance of the Judicatories of this Church, and shall equally oppose Schism and Defection, in any Capacity, that we shall be found Capable of. And here by these presents, we bind and oblige our selves Faithfully, to live in Union, Communion and intire Subjection, and due Obedience in the Lord, to the Authority of this Church in her Respective Judicatories: As witness our Hands at Edinburgh the 22 day of October 1690."

Thomas Lining. Alexander Shields, William Boyd.



Edinburgh 28 of October 1690. Ante Meridiem, Sess. 11.



VI. Act anent Ministers that observe not the publick Orders of the Church.

The Assembly Recommends it to Presbyteries, to take Notice of all Ministers, within their Bounds, whether the late Conforming Incumbents, or others, who shall not observe Fasts and Thanksgivings, Indicted by the Church: Or who shall be found Guilty, of any other Irregular Carriage, in administrating the Sacraments in private, or Celebrating Clandestine Marriages, without due Proclamation of Bans: And to censure them accordingly.



Edinburgh 29 October 1690. Ante Meridiem, Sess. 12.



VII. Act approving several Overtures.

This day the Overtures following were Read in Presence of the Assembly.

(M3) 1. "For retaining soundness, and unity of Doctrine, It is judged necessary, that all Probationers Licensed to Preach, all Intrants into the Ministry, and all other Ministers and Elders Received into Communion with us, in Church Government, be obliged, to Subscribe their Approbation of the Confession of Faith, approven by former General Assemblies of this Church, and Ratified in the second Session of the Current Parliament: And that this be Recommended to the Diligence of the several Presbyteries, and they appointed to Record their Diligence thereanent in their respective Registers."

(M4) 2. "That it be Recommended to Presbyteries, to take special Notice, what Papists are in their Bounds, and that they take pains to Re-claim them, and to Advert how their Children are Educat: and if need be, to make Application to the Civil Authority concerning them."

(M5) 3. "That the Celebration of Marriage, without due Proclamation of Bans, according to Order, three several Sabbaths in the respective Parishes, be discharged: And that it be recommended to Presbyteries, to Censure the Contraveeners."

(M6) 4. "That it be recommended to Kirk-Sessions and Presbyteries, carefully to put in Execution, the Acts of former General Assemblies against Profanation of the Lords-day, and particularly by unnecessary Sailing and Travelling."

(M7) 5. "That Application be made to the Parliament: for alerting all Mercats in Royal Burghs and other places, on Saturdays and Mondays."

The General Assembly after mature Deliberation, approves of these Overtures, and Recommends and Appoints accordingly: And ordains the same to be observed, and to have the Force and Strength of an Act and Ordinance of Assembly.



VIII. Act approving the Associations of Presbyteries.

The General Assembly, allows and approves of the Ministers of different Presbyteries, their Associating in Presbyteries; ay and while the Vacancies of the saids Presbyteries be filled: And declares them to have the Authority and Power of Presbyteries Respectively: And that notwithstanding, that according to the old Platform, the saids Ministers do reside in the Bounds of different Presbyteries.



Edinburgh 31 October 1690, Ante Meridiem Sess. 15.



IX. Act against Ministers Removing out of this Church.

The General Assembly does hereby appoint, that no Ministers, who have actual standing and absolute Relations, to any Charge in the Church of Scotland, shall remove out of the Kingdom, without the Consent of the Respective Judicatories of this Church.



X. Act anent the Administration of the Sacraments.

The General Assembly considering, that the two Sacraments, that Christ hath appointed under the New Testament, viz. Baptism and the Lords Supper, are his Solemn Ordinances, and Seals of the Covenant of Grace (which is held forth in the Preaching of the Gospel). And that in the use of them, the Parties receiving them, are solemnly devoted and engaged to God, before Angels and men; and are solemnly received, as Members of the Church, and do entertain Communion with her: And that by the Authority of this Church in her former Assemblies. The private use of them hath been condemned: As also, that by allowing the private use of the same, in pretended Cases of Necessity; The Superstitious opinion is nourished, that they are necessary to Salvation, not only as commanded Duties, but as means, without which Salvation cannot be attained. Therefore, The Assembly hereby discharges, the Administration of the Lords Supper, to Sick Persons in their Houses, and all other use of the same, except in the publick Assemblies of the Church. And also doth discharge the Administration of Baptism in private, That is, in any place, or at any time, when the Congregation is not orderly called together, to wait on the Dispensing of the Word. And appoints that this be carefully observed, when and where ever the Lord giveth his people Peace, Liberty and Opportunity for their publick Assemblies. And ordains this present Act to be publickly Intimate in all the Churches.



Edinburgh 11 November 1690. Post Meridiem Sess. 24.



XI. Act approving Overtures anent the Irish Bibles, &c.

This day the Overtures following anent the Irish Bibles, New Testaments and Catechisms, were read in presence of the Assembly.

1. That a Letter of Thanks be written to these concerned, whether in this, or our Neighbour Nation, for their Care of, and Liberal Charity towards the Highlanders of this Kingdom, in their so Liberally Contributing, for the saids Irish Bibles, &c. And that Mr. David Blair be appointed to write the said Letter in the Name of this Assembly.

2. The whole Money so Charitably contributed, being expended, Therefore, and for making up of the same, and for Defraying of the necessary Charges of Transporting the saids Bibles, &c. to Scotland; It is thought most needful, that there be an advance of One thousand Pounds Scots, and that Their Majesties Privy Council be supplicat, for as much of some Vacant Stipends of Parishes, where the King is Patron, as will make up the said sum for the ends foresaid.

3. That it be Recommended to the Kirk Sessions, Heretors and others concerned in the Highlands, to see the Act of Parliament anent Erecting of Schools in every Parish, duely Execute, and the Fonds established by Law, for the same, made effectual.

4. That it be Recommended to the Agent for the Kirk, to Receive the foresaid sum, and to Deburse the same at the sight of Mr. John Law and Mr. David Blair, for the said use: And also to receive the Books above-mentioned, being three Thousand Bibles, one Thousand New Testaments, and three Thousand Catechisms, from London.

5. That the several Synods, who have Highland Parishes in their bounds, appoint one of their Number, to receive their proportion, of the saids Bibles, New Testaments, and Catechisms: And that in order thereto, the Ministers and Elders having Interest in the Highlands, present in this Assembly, shall meet and appoint some to receive these Bibles, &c. And proportion the number that each Parish shall have thereof.

6. That it be Recommended to the Ministers, concerned in the Highlands, to dispatch the whole Paraphrase of the Irish Psalms, to the Press. And if the Principal Copy can be Recovered, to expede the same; But that any other Copy they have, be Revised by the Synod of Argyle, and being approven by them; That the same be Printed.

The Assembly having considered these Overtures, they approve thereof, and Recommend and Appoint accordingly.



At Edinburgh, November 12. 1690. Post Meridiem. Sess. 25.



XII. Act anent a Solemn National Fast and Humiliation, with the Causes thereof.

The General Assembly, Having taken into their most serious Consideration, the late great and general Defection of this Church and Kingdom; Have though fit to Appoint a Day of Solemn Humiliation and Fasting, for Confession of Sins, and making Supplication to Our Gracious GOD, to Forgive and Remove the guilt thereof; In order whereunto, they have Ordained the Confession of Sins, and Causes of Fasting following, to be duely Intimate and Published; Recommending it most earnestly to all persons, both Ministers and Others, That every One of us may not only search and try our own Hearts and Wayes, and stir up Ourselves to seek the Lord; But also in our Stations, and as we have access, Deal with one another, in all Love and Tenderness, to prepare for so great and necessary a Duty, that we may find mercy in God's sight, and He may be graciously Reconciled to our Land in the Lord Jesus, and take delight to dwell among us.

Although our gracious God hath of late, for His own Name sake wrought great and wonderful things, for Britain and Ireland, and for this Church and Nation in particular; Yet the Inhabitants thereof have cause to remember their own evil wayes, and to loath themselves in their own sight for their Iniquities. Alas! Alas! We and our Fathers, our Princes, our Pastors, and People of all Ranks have sinned, and have been under great Transgression to this day: For though our gracious God shewed early kindness to this Land, in sending the Gospel among us, and afterward in our Reformation from Popish Superstition and Idolatry; and It had the Honour, beyond many Nations of being after our first Reformation, Solemnly devoted unto God, both Prince and People; yet we have dealt treacherously with the Lord, and been unstedfast in His Covenant, and have not walked suitably to our Mercies received from Him, nor obligations to Him. Through the mercy of God this Church had attained to a great purity of Doctrine, Worship and Government, but this was not accompanied with suitable personal Reformation, neither was our Fruit answerable to the pains taken on us by Word and Work; We had much Gospel-preaching, but too little Gospel-practice, too many went on in open wickedness, and some had but a form of Godliness, denying the power thereof: Many also who had the Grace of God in truth fell from their first love, and fell under sad languishings and decays; and when for our sins the Anger of the Lord had divided us, and we were brought under the feet of strangers, and many of our brethren killed, and others taken captive and sold as slaves; yet we sinned still, and after we were freed from the yoak of strangers, instead of returning to the Lord, and being led to Repentance by His Goodness, the Land made open Defection from the good ways of the Lord: Many behaved as if they had been delivered to work abomination, the flood-gates of Impiety were opened, and a deluge of wickednese did overspread the Land. Who can without grief and shame remember the shameful debauchery and drunkenness that then was? And this accompanied with horrid and hellish cursing and swearing, and followed with frequent Filthiness, Adulteries and other Abominations, and the Reprover was hated, and he that departed from Iniquity made himself a Reproach of Prey. And when by these, and such like corrupt practices, mens Consciences were debauched, they proceeded to sacrifice the Interest of the Lord Jesus Christ, and priviledges of his Church to the lusts and will of Men; The Supremacy was advanced in such a way, and to such an height, as never any Christian Church acknowledged; The Government of the Church was altered, and Prelacie (which hath been always grievous to this Nation) introduced, without the Churches consent, and contrary to the standing Acts of our National Assemblies, both which the present Parliament hath (blessed be God) lately found; And yet nevertheless, of the then standing Ministry of Scotland, many did suddenly and readily comply with that alteration of the Government, some out of Pride and Covetousness, or Man-pleasing, some through infirmity or weakness, or fear of Man, and want of Courage and Zeal for God; many faithful Ministers were thereupon cast out, and many Insufficient and Scandalous Men thrust in on their Charges, and many Families ruined, because they would not own them as their Pastors.

And alas! It is undenyable, there hath been under the late Prelacie, a great decay of Piety, so that it was enough to make a man be nicknam'd a Phanatick, if he did not run to the same excess of Riot with others.

And should it not be lamented, for it cannot be denied, that there hath been in some a dreadful Atheistical Boldness against God, some have disputed the Beeing of GOD, and His Providence, the Divine Authority of the Scriptures, the Life to come, and Immortality of the Soul, yes and scoffed at these things.

There hath been also an Horrid Prophanation of the Holy and Dreadful Name of GOD, by cursing and swearing: Ah! there hath been so much Swearing and Forswearing amongst us, that no Nation under Heaven hath been more guilty in this than we; some by swearing rashly or ignorantly, some falsly, by breaking their Oaths. And imposing and taking ungodly unlawful Oaths and Bonds, whereby the Consciences of many have been polluted and seared, and many ruined and oppressed for refusing and not taking them.

There hath also been a great neglect of the worship of God, too much in publick, but especially in Families and in secret.

The wonted care of Religious sanctifying the Lord's Day is gone, and in many places the Sabbath hath been and is shamefully prophaned.

The Land also hath been, full of bloody Crimes, and Cities full of Violence, and much innocent Blood shed, so that Blood touched Blood, yea, Sodoms sins have abounded amongst us. Pride, fulness of Bread, Idleness, Vanities of Apparel, and shameful sensuality filled the Land.

And Alas! how great hath been the Cry of Oppression and Unrighteousness, Iniquity hath been established by a Law, there hath been a great perverting of Justice, by making and executing unrighteous Statutes and Acts, and sad persecutions of many for their Conscience towards God.

It is also matter of Lamentation, that under this great Defection, there hath been too general a fainting not only amongst Professours of the Gospel, but also amongst Ministers; yea, even amongst such, who in the main things did endeavour to maintain their Integrity, in not giving seasonable and necessary Testimony against the Defections and Evils of the Time, and keeping a due distance from them, and some on the other hand managed their Zeal with too little Discretion and Meekness.

It is also matter of Humiliation, that when Differences fell out amongst these, who did own Truth, and bear witness against the Course of Defection, they were not managed with due Charity and Love, but with too much heat and bitterness, injurious Reflections used against Pious and Worthy men on all hands, and scandalous Divisions occasioned, and the Success of the Gospel greatly obstructed thereby, and some dangerous Principles drunk in: And after all this, there were shameful advances towards Popery, the abomination of the Mass was set up in many places, and Popish Schools erected, and severals fell to Idolatry.

And though the Lord hath put a stop to the Course of Defection, and of his great mercy given us some reviving from our Bondage; yet we have sad cause to regrate and bemoan, that few have a due sense of our mercy, or walk answerable thereto; Few are turned to the Lord in truth, but the wicked go on to do wickedly; And there is found amongst us to this day, shameful ingratitude for our mercies, Horrid impenitency under our sins, yea, even among those, who stand most up for the defence of the Truth: And amongst many in our Armies, there is woful Prophanness and Debauchery. And though we profess to acknowledge, there can be no Pardon of Sins, no Peace and Reconciliation with God, but by the Blood of Jesus Christ; Yet few know Him, or see the Necessity and Excellency of the Knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ; few see their need of him, or esteem, desire, or receive him as he is offered in the Gospel; few are acquainted with Faith in Jesus Christ, and living by Faith in Him, as made of the Father unto us, wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification and Redemption; And few walk as becometh the Gospel, and imitate our Holy Lord in Humility, Meekness, Self-denial, Heavenly mindedness, Zeal for GOD, and Charity towards Men: But as there is even untill now, a great contempt of the Gospel, a great Barrenness under it; So a deep Security under our sin and Danger, a great want of Piety toward God, and Love towards Men, with a woful Selfishness, every one seeking their own things, few the things of Christ, or the publick Good, or one anothers welfare: And finally, the most part more ready to Censure the sins of others, than to Repent of their own.

Our Iniquities are increased over our Heads, and our Trespasses are grown up unto the Heavens, they are many in number, and hainous in their nature, and grievously aggravated, as having been contrary to great Light and Love, under signal Mercies and Judgments, after Confession and Supplication, and notwithstanding of our Profession, Promises and solemn Vowing, and Covenanting with God to the contrary.

Have we not then sad cause of deep Sorrow and Humiliation? And may we not fear, if we do not repent, and turn from the evil of our wayes, and return to the Lord with all our hearts, that he return to do us evil, after He hath done us good, and be angry with us, until he hath consumed us?

Let us therefore humble our selves by fasting and Praying, let us search out our sins, and consider our wayes, and confess these, and other our sins, with Sorrow and Detestation; Let us Turn unto the Lord with fasting and weeping, and with mourning; Let us firmly resolve and sincerely Engage to amend our wayes and doings, and return unto the Lord our God, with all our hearts, and earnestly pray, that for the Blood of the Lamb of God, our sins may be forgiven, and our back slidings healed, and we may yet become a Righteous Nation, keeping the Truth, that Religion and Righteousness may flourish, and Love and Charity abound, and all the Lords People may be of one mind in the Lord: And in order to all these, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, and that the Preaching of the Word, and Dispensing of the Sacraments, may be accompanied with the wonted Presence, Power and Blessing of the Spirit of the Lord, That the Lord would Preserve and bless our gracious King and Queen, William and Mary, and establish their Throne by Righteousness and Religion, and grant to these Nations, Peace and Truth together; And for that End, bless and prosper His Majesties Councils, and Forces by Sea and Land, and these of the Princes and States his Allies, for God and his Truth; That inferior Rulers may Rule in the fear of God and Judges be cloathed with Righteousness, and that many faithful Labourers may be sent out into the Lord's Vineyard, and they who are sent, may find mercy to be Faithful, and be blest with Success; That Families may be as little Churches of Christ, and that the Lord would pour out His Spirit on all Ranks of People, that they may be Holy in all manner of Conversation, and God may delight to dwell amongst us and to do us good.

And while we pray for our selves, let us not forget our Brethren in Foreign Churches, with whom, alas! we had too little Sympathy; Nay let us pray, that all the Ends of the Earth, may see the Salvation of God; And that he would bring His ancient people of the Jews to the Acknowledgment of Jesus Christ; And that he would hasten the Ruine of Romish Babylon and advance the Reformation in Christendome, and preserve and bless the Reformed Churches; That he would pitie His oppressed People, the French Protestants, and gather them out of all places, whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day; And that He would be the Defence, Strength and Salvation of any of His People, who are in War or Danger by Infidel or Popish adversaries, in Europe or America: And in particular, that the Lord would be Gracious to Ireland, and sanctifie to His People there, both their distress and Deliverance, and perfect what concerneth them, that he would Convert the Natives there to the Truth, Reduce that Land to Peace; And appoint Salvation for Walls and Bulwarks to Brittain.

For all these Causes and Reasons, The General Assembly hath Appointed the Second Thursday of January next, to be Observed in all the Congregations of this Church and Nation, as a day of Solemn Fasting and Humiliation, and Prayer; Beseeching and Obtesting all, both Pastors and People, of all Ranks to be sincere and serious, in Humiliation and Supplication, and universal Reformation, as they would wish to find mercy of the Lord and have deserved wrath averted, and would obtain the Blessing of the Lord upon themselves and Posterity after them; And that the Lord may delight in us, and our Land may be as Married to Him. And Ordains all Ministers, either in Kirks or Meeting houses, to Read this present Act publickly from the Pulpit, a Sabbath or two before the said Day of Humiliation: and that the several Presbyteries take care, that it be carefully observed in their Respective bounds. And where, in regard of Vacancies, the Day hereby appointed, cannot be observed; The Assembly appoints the said Humiliation to be kept some other Day with the first convenient opportunity. And Appoints the Commission for Visitation, to apply to the Council for their Civil Sanction to the Observation thereof.



XIII. Act anent Sentences past against Ministers from the Year 1650. &c.

The General Assembly does hereby declare, all Sentences, past against any Ministers Hinc Inde, by any Church Judicatory, upon the Account of the late Differences among Presbyterians, from the Year 1650. Till the Re-introduction of Prelacy, to be of themselves void and null, to all Effects and Intents. And Siclike the General Assembly hereby Recommends, to the Respective Presbyteries, to take care, that such of these Ministers, as are not otherways disposed of by the Church, Return to the exercise of their Ministry, in their Respective Congregations. And also hereby Recommends to the Civil Magistrate, that the saids Ministers may have the Lega Maintainances and Stipends where they served.



Edinburgh 13 of November 1690. Post Meridiem. Sess. 26.



XIV. The Assemblies Letter to His Majesty.

May it please Your Majesty.

The Happiness we have had by Your Majesties influence, as an Instrument in the Hand of God, towards us for good, and the Countenance You have given us in Holding this National Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Doth Encourage us to make Application again to Your Majesty; That as in our Answer to Your Gracious Letter direct to us in the Entrance of this Assembly, we Engaged to Your Majesty that in all things that should come before us, we would carry with that Calmnes and Moderation, which becometh the Ministers of the Gospel of Peace, and which Your Majesty did so effectually Recommend to us; So now in the Close of this our Assembly, we presume to acquaint Your Majesty, That through the good Hand of God upon us, we have in a great measure performed accordingly: Having applied our selves, mostly and especially, to what concerned this whole Church, and endeavoured by all means Ecclesiastical, and proper for us, to promote the Good thereof, together with the Quiet of the Kingdom, and Your Majesties Satisfaction and Contentment. And God hath been pleased to Bless our Endeavours, in our Receiving to the Unity and Order of this Church, some who had withdrawn, and now have joyned with us, and promised Subjection: And in providing for the Propagation of Religion, and the Knowledge of God, in the most Barbarous places of the Highlands, which may be the surest way of Reducing these people also unto Your Majesties Obedience: And especially in Regulating the Ministers of this Church, after so great Revolutions and Alterations: For we have according to the use and practice of this Church, ever since the first Reformation from Popery, appointed Visitations both for the Southern and Northern parts of this Kingdom, Consisting of the Gravest and most Experienced Ministers and Elders: To whom we have given Instructions about the late Conformists, that none of them shall be Removed from their Places, but such as are either Insufficient, or Scandalous, or Erroneous, or Supinely Negligent: And that these of them be admitted to Ministerial Communion with us, who upon due Trial, and in a Competent Time for that Trial, shall be found to be Orthodox in Doctrine, of Competent Abilities, of a Godly, Peaceable, and Loyal Conversation, and who shall be judged Faithfull to God and to the Government: And who shall likewayes Promise to own, Submit unto, and Concurre with it. We have also taken Care, that all persons, who shall be found to have received wrong, in any Inferior Judicatory of this Church, shall be duly Redressed: Other things which are not of so Universal a Concern, we have delayed till the next General Assembly. This Account Great SIR, we look upon our selves as Obliged to give unto Your Majesty, for that great Goodness, You have been pleased to express, in giving such Countenance to this Assembly, and in appointing such Commissioner to Represent Your Royal Person, who hath been in all his Conduct in this Affair, most acceptable unto us. That God may Bless Your Majesty, and our most Gracious Queen, with all Blessings, which concern both this Life, and the Life to come, is the earnest Prayer of.

May it please your Majesty, Your Majesties most Faithful, Most Humble and most Obedient, Subjects and Servants.

Subscribed in Name, and at the Appointment of the General Assembly, by

HU. KENNEDIE. Moderator.



XV. Instructions to the Commissions for Visitations on the South and North sides of Tay.

The following Instructions to the Commission for Visitations on this side of Tay, were Read in presence of the Assembly.

"1. That there be appointed by the Assembly, a Delegate number of the most experienced Ministers and Elders. This number to be Forty Ministers, and Twenty Ruling Elders, fifteen of them to a Quorum, ten of these being alwayes Ministers; And that they at their first Session, Choose their Moderator and Clerk; And for the Sub-committe betwixt the Quarterly Meetings, nine to be the Quorum, six of these being alwayes Ministers."

"2. That the Work of this Commission for Visitations be, to take to their Cognizance all References, and Appeals, and other things, which being stated before this Assembly, shall by them be specially Referred to the said Commission, to determine the same."

"3. That the Commission give their Opinion to all Presbyteries and Synods, who shall apply to them for the same, in difficult Cases: and though Presbyteries shall not apply, yet if the Commission shall be informed of any Precipitant, or unwarrantable procedure of Presbyteries, in Processes, which may prove of ill Consequence to the Church, The Commission shall interpose their Advice, to such Presbyteries, to sift such procedure, till either the Synod, or next General Assembly take Cognizance of it; if the said Commission shall not find a present fit Expedient, to direct them, for bringing the matter sooner to a Right Conclusion."

"4. That in discussing References, Appeals and Bills, They take care to purge out all, who upon due Tryal shall be found to be Insufficient, supinely Negligent, Scandalous or Erroneous."

"5. That this Commission shall have Power of Visiting any Ministers within the Bounds of any Presbyteries, on this side of the Water of Tay, as they shall find need: And that this Power Reach Presbyterians as well as others."

"6. That they shall be Careful, that none shall be admitted by them to Ministerial Communion, or to a share of the Government; but such as upon due Tryal (for which the Commission is to take a competent time) shall be found to be Orthodox in their Doctrine, of Competent Abilities, having a Pious, Godly, Loyal and Peaceable Conversation, as becometh a Minister of the Gospel, of an Edifying Gift, and whom the Commission shall have ground to believe, will be True and Faithful to God and the Government, and diligent in their Ministerial Duties. And that all who shall be admitted to the Ministry, or shall be received to a share in the Government, shall be obliged to Own and Subscribe the Confession of Faith, and profess their Submission to, and willingness to Joyn and Concur with the Presbyterian Church-Government."

"7. That they be very Cautions of receiving Informations, against the late Conformists, and that they proceed in the matter of Censure, very Deliberatly, so as none may have just cause to complain of their Rigiditie: Yet so as to omit no means of Information. And that they shall not proceed to censure, but upon Relevant Libels and sufficient Probation."

"8. That this Commission do not take on them, to meddle with any thing, not expressed in their Commission: And that it be declared, that this Commission is only given, Ad hunc effectum & pro praesenti Ecclesiae statu."

"9. That this commission be in all their actings, Countable to, and Censurable by the next Ensuing General Assembly."

"10. That this commission continue till the first of November next: and in case the General Assembly Interveen; Then this Commission is to Terminate at the meetting of the said Assembly."

The General Assembly approves these Instructions, for the said Commission for Visitations on the South-side of Tay: And ordains the same also to serve for the Visitors that are to be appointed for the North.



XVI. Commission for Visitations on the South side of Tay.

The General Assembly Considering, that there are many Important and weighty Affairs, Processes, Appeals, and References, Tabled before this Assembly, which the Assembly could not overtake, for want of time to consider them naturely; Does therefore Nominate and Authorize a Commission of Ministers and Elders, for Visitation of the whole Presbyteries, on the South-side of Tay, viz. Mr. Hugh Kennedy, Mr. John Vetch, Mr. John Law, Mr. Gabriel Semple, Mr. Gilbert Rule, Mr. James Kirtoun, Mr. William Areskyne, Mr. William Weir, Mr. William Crichtoun, Mr. John Anderson of Perth, Mr. Alexander Pitcairn, Mr. Richard Howison, Mr. George Campbel, Mr. John Lawrie, Mr. Archibald Hamiltoun, Mr. Patrick Peacock, Mr. John Spalding, Mr. Michael Bruce, Mr. Gabriel Cuningham, Mr. Patrick Warner, Mr. Alexander Forbes, Mr. John Hutcheson, Mr. William Eccles, Mr. James Vetch, Mr. Patrick Simpson, Mr. Matthew Crawford, Mr. William Legat, Mr. Neil Gillies, Mr. Thomas Forrester, Mr. Andrew Mortoun, Mr. Robert Duncanson, Mr. John Bannatyne, Mr. William Ker, Mr. William Vilant, Mr. Robert Rule, Mr. James Frazer, Mr. George Meldrum at Kilnining, Mr. David Blair, Mr. Samuel Nairn, Mr. Edward Jamieson, Mr. James Rymer Ministers: and the Earl of Crawford, the Earl of Sutherland, the Viscount of Arburthnet, the Lord Halcraig, the Lord Aberuchil, the Laird of Cimistoun, Sir John Hall Provest of Edinburgh, Sir John Riddel, the Laird of Greenknows, Archibald Muir late Baylie of Edinburgh, James Mclurgh Dean of Gild, George Stirling Deacon Conveener, the Laird of Naughtoun, the Laird of Meggans, the Laird of Leuquhat, Sir Thomas Stewart, the Laird of Glanderstoun, the Laird of Lamingtoun, Provest Muir of Air, and the Laird of Grange Hamiltoun Ruling Elders: To meet for their first Diet at Edinburgh the fourteenth day of November Instant, Fifteen of them being a Quorum, whereof Ten are to be alwayes Ministers: And of their Sub-Committee in the Interval of their Quarterly Meetings, Nine to be a Quorum, Six of these being always Ministers, who only are to Rippen and prepare Matters for the Quarterly Meetings. And their next Quarterly Meeting to be at Edinburgh the Third Wednesday of January thereafter. And their next Quarterly Meeting to be on the Third Wednesday of April. And if afterwards the said Commission shall think fit, to appoint other Quarterly Meetings, they may do as they see Expedient With full Power to them and their Sub-Commission foresaid, to give Warrand for Citing Parties upon Fifteen free dayes. And the said Commission, being only appointed, Ad hunc effectum & pro prasentes Ecclesia Statu, Therefore, The Assembly Recommends particularly to the said Commission, to take Cognizance of, and finally determine in the particulars following, specially Committed and Referred to them, by this Assembly, viz. The Purging and Planting of the City and Presbytery of Edinburgh: The transportation of Mr. Robert Wyse to Hamiltoun: The Proces of the Heretors and People of Peebles: The Processes, of Mr. Thomas Wood at Dumbar, of Mr. Robert Spotswood at Abbotsrule, Mr. John Bowes at Abbotshail, Mr. Patrick Lyon at Kinghorm, Mr. Symon Compar at Dumfermling, Mr. William Crawford at Lady-Kirk, Mr. James Orr at Huttoun, Mr. Adam Peacock at Morbassie, Mr. Daniel Urquhart at Clackmannan, Mr. George Monro at Dollar, Mr. George Shaw at Logie, Mr. Alexander Ireland at Fossoway and Tilliboal, Mr. Robert Sharp at Muckart, Mr. James Grahame at Dumfermling, Mr. George Gray at Beath, Mr. John Monro at Stirling, and Mr. John Skinner at Bathkenner: The Petition of the Magistrates of Perth, and Reference anent Mr. John Anderson there: The Processes of Mr. William Alison at Kilboche, and Mr. James Cowper at Humbie: Some Reference of the Synod of Merse and Teviotdial to the Assembly, viz. One anent Doctor Canaries, and another anent Mr. Kirktoun and Mr. Jameson's returning to their Charges, or else to Dimit; And a third anent Mr. William Crawfurd Deposed, to procure him some Lively hood, because of his Age and Infirmity, and some others given in to the Clerk therewith from the said Synod: The Affair anent Mr. Duncan Campbel and the Parishes of Dinnoon and Kilmorn: The Process of Mr. Robert Glasford at Auchterderen: The Reference from the Presbyterie of Stirling, for advice anent Mr. Patrick Cowpar: The Petitions of Mr. William Hamiltoun and Mr. Hugh Nisbet: The Petition of Mr. Alexander Strang, anent his Clerks Fies. This Commission is also to Correspond with the State, anent Fasts and Thanksgivings, and their Causes, if the Occasions thereof fall out during the time of their sitting: Also to take the Monitory paper to consideration, and see what use is to be made of it: To consider what Acts of Assembly are fit to be Printed together, and order the same. To consider the form of process, being first Revised by the Lord Aberuchil and the Lord Halcraig. And to apply to the Privy Council for their Civil Sanction to the observation of the Fast. And this Commission is to walk in all things, according to the particular Instructions given unto them by this Assembly. And in all their Actings they shall be countable to and Censurable by the next General Assembly. And this Commission to Continue till the first of November next, or the diet, that shall be appointed for the next General Assembly.



XVII. Commission for Visitations on the North side of Tay.

The General Assembly taking to their Consideration the necessity of Purging and Planting of the Churches on the North side of Tay, do by their Ecclesiastical Authority, Nominat, Appoint and Authorize their Reverend Brethren Mr. Hugh Kennedy, Mr. John Law, Mr. William Crichtoun, Mr. Edward Jamieson, Mr. Robert Rule, Mr. James Rymer, Mr. James Frazer, Mr. Alexander Forbes, Mr. John Anderson at Perth, Mr. George Meldrum at Kitwining, Mr. Thomas Ramsay, Mr. Andrew Bowie, Mr. Robert Young, Mr. William Legat, and Mr. William Mackie, Ministers: And the Lord Viscount of Arbuthnet, the Laird of Meggins, the Laird of Naughtoun, the Laird of Leuquhat, and the Laird of Greenknows, Ruling Elders: To joyn with the Ministers and Elders in the North after-mentioned; Viz. Mr. John Stewart, Mr. James Urquhart, Mr. Alexander Dumbar, Mr. Alexander Frazer, Mr. Thomas Hogg, Mr. Hugh Henryson, Mr. William Mackay, Mr. Walter Dinnoon, Mr. George Meldrum of Glass, Mr. Arthur Mitchel, Mr. William Ramsay, Mr. Francis Melvil, and Mr. John Mculloch, Ministers: together With the Earle of Sutherland, the Laird of Brodie, the Laird of Grant, the Laird of Grange Dumbar, the Laird of Eight, the Laird of Culloden, the Laird of Darfolly, the Laird of Parkhay, Sir John Monro, Sir. George Monro, Sir Robert Gordon of Embo, David Frazer of Maine, Mr. John Campbel of Moy, Hector Monro of Drummond, Alexander Duff, and Robert Martyne of Burnbrae, Ruling Elders: To be a Commission for Visiting the whole Presbyteries on the North-side of the Water of Tay, In Planting Vacant Churches Constituting Elderships in Congregations, Trying & Purging out of Insufficient, Negligent, Scandalous and Erroneous Ministers, by due course of Ecclesiastical Process and Censures, according to the Particular Instructions, given them thereanent, and for that effect, to have their first Dyet of meeting, at Aberdeen, the Second Wednesday of March next, and thereafter to appoint the own Dyets and Places of meeting, as they see Expedient, with full Power to them, or their Quorum being seven Ministers and three Ruling Elders, to Issue out Warrants for Citing of Parties upon fifteen Free dayes, to Cognosce, Determine and finally decide, in planting of Vacant Churches, Constituting Elderships, and Trying and Purging out, all Insufficient, Negligent, Scandalous and Erroneous Ministers, conforme to the particular Instructions given them thereanent. They being alwayes Countable to, and Censurable by the next General Assembly of this Church: And this Commission to continue till the first of November next, or the Dyet that shall be appointed for the next General Assembly.



XVIII. Commission for Mr. Gilbert Rule and Mr. David Blair, to wait upon His Majesty anent the Affairs of this Church.

The General Assembly judging it Expedient, to send two of their Number to London, to attend his Majesty, anent the Affairs of this Church; Does therefore Nominate and Appoint their Reverend Brethren, Mr. Gilbert Rule, one of the Ministers of the City of Edinburgh, and Principal of the Colledge thereof, and Mr. David Blair another of the Ministers of the said City; with all convenient speed to Repair to London, to attend His Majesty for the end foresaid: And Refers the Instructions to be given them, and what other things Concern their Journey, to the Commission for Visitations on the South side of Tay appointed by this Assembly.



This Assembly being Dissolved, and the next General Assemly appointed to be held at Edinburgh the first day of November next to come; the Members were dismissed with Prayer, Singing of the 133 Psalm, and pronouncing of the Blessing.

Collected, Visied and Extracted, from the Records of the said Assembly by Me JOHN SPALDING Cls. Syn: National.

FINIS.



INDEX OF THE UNPRINTED ACTS, &C. OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, 1690.

Election of Mr. Hugh Kennedy to be Moderator. Sess. 1.

Continuation of Mr. John Spalding, Clerk to the late General Meeting, to be Clerk to this Assembly for the time. Ibid.

Committee for Revising the Commissions of the Members of this Assembly, Ibid.

Committee for Overture, References, and Appeals, Sess. 2.

Committee For Synod-Books, and for Bills. Ibid.

Committee for Supplying the Kirks of Edinburgh, during this Assembly. Ibid.

Reference anent the Purging and Planting of the City and Presbytery of Edinburgh, to the Commission to be appointed for Visitations, Sess. 5.

Declaration by the Moderator, that this Assembly would Despose no Incumbents, simply for their Judgment, anent the Government of the Church, nor urge Re-ordination upon them, Sess. 6.

The Opinion of the Assembly, declining to send any Ministers to Northumberland, upon a Petition of some in that Country, is respect these People do not belong to this Church. Sess. 8.

Act discharging Mr. Andrew Sliry the exercise of the Ministry, at Falkirk, and appointing the Presbytery of Linlithgow to declare the said Kirk Vacant: As also discharging him the exercise of the Ministry, within the bounds of that Presbytery, without the said Presbyteries allowances. Sess. 9.

Act anent the call given to Mr. Robert Anderson by the Parish of Leuquhars. Ibid.

Act declaring Mr. Arthur Mitchell Rightful Minister at Turreff Sess. 10.

Act Transporting Mr. George Campbel, to the Profession of Divinity in the Colledge of Edinburgh, and to the Ministrie in that City. Sess. 11.

Act appointing some Ministers to Repair to Dundie, Sess. 12.

Act transporting Mr. Gabriel Semple to Jedburgh. Ibid.

Act anent Letters to several Ministers and Preachers Now abroad, belonging to this Church, for their Returning Home. Sess. 13.

Act Reviving the Overtures of the Assembly. 1649. Sess. 2. Anent the ordering of the Assembly House Ibid.

Act against Mr. John Mckenzie, declaring the Kirk of Karklistoun Vacant, with a Recommendation to the Presbytery of Linlithgow, to see the same planted. Ibid.

Overture anent planting of the North. Sess. 14.

Act appointing some Ministers to repair to Angus, with a Recommendation to the privy Council thereanent. Ibid.

Continuation of Mr. John Spalding, to be Clerk of this Assembly, till further Consideration. Sess. 15.

Act against Mr. John Park late Incumbent at Carriden, finding that he had fallen from his appeal, from the Presbytery of Linlithgow, by his non compeatance Ibid.

Election of John Blair to be Agent for this Church. Sess. 16.

Remit Mr. Alexander Heriot at Dalkeith to the Synod of Loathian. Sess. 17.

Act Ratifiying the Sentence of deposition, past by the Presbytery of Stirling against Mr. James Forsyth Elder late Incumbent at St. Ninians, for Celebrating an Incestuous Marriage. Sess. 18.

Act in favours of Mr. James Couper Incumbent at Humbie Ibid.

Recommendation to the Commission of Parliament for Plantation of Kirks &c. in favours of the Synod of Argyl. Ibid.

Reference to the Commission to be appointed for Visitations on the South side of Tay, in favours of the Town of Perth, with an Approbation of the Presbytries procedure, in constituting a Kirk Session there. Ibid.

Recommendation to the Commission of Parliament for Plantation of Kirks. &c. In Favours of the Town of Drumfries. Ibid.

Election of George Mosman to be Printer to the Assemly, Sess. 21.

Recommendation to his Majesty, the Parliament, and Commission for plantation of Kirks &c. in favours, of the Laird and Lady Hoptoun for Erecting the Lead Mynes in a Parish. Ibid.

Recommendation to the Presbytery of Dambarten and Synod of Glasgow, in favours of Mr. Thomas Mitchell. Ibid.

Recommendation to the Commission for plantation of Kirks &c For Re-erecting the Kirk and Parish of New-Cumnock. Ibid.

Reference in favours of the Burgh and Parish of Stanrawer, and the Parishes of Anwith and Borgh, to the several Presbyteries, for applying to the Meetings in Ireland, to louse the Irish Ministers now serving in these Parishes to the end they may continue their setled Ministers. Sess. 22.

Reference to the Presbytery of Hamiltoun and Lanerk, in Favours of Mr. Samuel Mowat. Ibid.

Recommendation to the Commission for plantation of Kirks &c. For Re-erecting the Kirk of Robertoun. Ibid.

Act Impowering the Ministers and Elders in the North who are to joyn with the Visitation for that Countrey, to take Informations, and to cause Cite Parties and witnesses against the first Diet of the said Visitation. Sess. 24

Remit Mr. Forsyth Younger to the Presbytery of Stirling. Ibid.

The Opinion of the Assembly declining to meddle in the Petition of the Lord and Lady Crichtoun, as being a matter Civil, and so not comepetent to the Assembly. Ibid.

Reference in Favours of the Parish of Genluce to the Presbytery of the bounds, to apply for lousing some Irish Ministers, as in the case of the Burgh of Stranrawer., &c. Ibid.

The Opinion of the Assembly declining to meddle in a Petition of the Heretors of Collingtoun, as being a matter Civil and Incompetent to them. Sess. 25.

Recommendation in Favours of George Mosman anent some Books. Ibid.

Act appointing Mr. Gilbert Rule, to Writt an answer to some Pamphlets. Ibid.

Act for supplying the Charges of Ministers appointed for Visitations in the North. Ibid.

Act appointing some Ministers to Repair to the bounds of the Presbyteries of Lochmahan Middlebee, &c. Ibid.

Act declaring the Sentence of Deposition and Excommunication past by the late pretended Bishop of Dumblane, against Mr. William Spence to be void and Null. Ibid.

Letter from the Assembly to the Earle of Melvill Lord Secretary of State for Scotland. Sess. 26.

Act appointing some Ministers and Probationers to Repair to the North. Ibid.

Act appointing some Ministers to the like effect with the former. Ibid.

Committee for Revising the Acts of Assembly. Ibid.

Recommendation to the privy Council, for some Charity to Mr. William Cameron one of the late Conformists, Ibid.

Recommendation to the Presbytery of Edinburgh, and the Synod of Louthian and Fife, in Favours of Mary Aresyne. Ibid.

Act appointing the Synod Books to be sent in to the next General Assembly. Ibid.

FINIS.



AN INDEX OF THE PRINCIPAL UNPRINTED ACTS OF THE ASSEMBLY AT GLASGOW, 1638.

Act containing sundry protestations between the Commissioners Grace and the members of the Assembly.

Act of Election of Mr. Alexander Henderson to be Moderatour.

Act of Mr. Archibald Johnstoun his admission to be Clerk and his production of the Registers of the Kirk, which were preserved by Gods wonderful providence.

An act disallowing any private conference and constant Assessours to the Moderatour.

The Act Registrating his Majesties will given in by his Commissioner.

The Act bearing the Assemblies Protestation against the dissolution thereof.

Act anent the Presbitery of Auchterardors present seat at Aberuthven for a time.

Act anent the order of receiving the repentance of any penitent Prelate.

Act anent the admission of Mr. Archibald Johnstoun to be Advocate and Mr. Robert Dalgleish to be Agent for the Kirk.

Act anent the transporting of Mr. Alexander Henderson from Leuchars to Edinburgh.

Act containing a Commission to sit at Edinburgh December, 26.

Another Commission to sit at Jedburgh Ian, 22.

Another Commission to sit at Irwin Ian, 15.

Another Commission to sit at Dunde Feb, 5.

Another Commission to sit at Chantrie and Forres, March, 19.

Another Commission to sit at Kirkubright, Feb. 6.

A Commission for visitation of the Colledge of Aberdeen.

A Commission for visitation of the Colledge of Glasgow.

Act appointing the Commissioners to attend the Parliament, and the Articles which they are to represent in name of the Kirk to the Estates.

Act ordaining the Presbyteries to intimate in their several Pulpites the Assemblies explanation of Confession of Faith.

The Act against Episcopacy. The Act against the Five Articles.

The act against the Service Book. The Book of Cannons.

The Book of Ordination. The High Commission.

Act of Excommunication and deposition against some Prelates, and of deposition only against some of them.

Act ordaining all Presbyteries to keep a solemn thanksgiving in all Parishes, for Gods Blessing and good success to this Assembly, upon the first convenient Sabbath.

Act warranding the Moderator and Clerk to give out summonds upon relevant complaints, against parties to compear before the next Assembly.

Act that none be chosen as Ruling Elders to sit in Presbyteries, Provincial, or General Assemblies, but those who subscribes the Covenant as it is now declared, and acknowledges the constitutions of this Assembly.

Act for representing to the Parliament the necessity of the standing of the Procurators place for the Kirk.



INDEX OF THE PRINCIPAL ACTS OF THE ASSEMBLY AT EDINBURGH, 1639, NOT PRINTED.

The Kings Majesties Commission to John Earle of Traquair.

Election of Master David Dickson Moderator.

The Kings Majesties Commissioners, and the Assemblies Declarations anent the Assembly of Glasgow.

Renounciation of Master Alexander Lindsay pretended Bishop of Dunkeld, of Episcopacy.

Commission for visitation of the University of St. Andrews.

Commission for visitation of the University of Glasgow.

Act reviving former Acts against going of Salt-pans on the Sabbath day.

Act for drawing up of a Catechisme.

Articles and overtures to be presented to the ensuing Parliament.

The report of the Committee appointed for examination of the Book called The Kings Manifesto, or Declaration.

The Covenant or Confession of Faith.

Act anent the adjoining of some Kirks in the Ile of Boes to the Presbytery of Denune.

Act adjoyning some Kirks in the Iles of Coill and Tyrie, to the Provincial of Kilmoire.

Commission for visitation of the Colledge of Aberdeen.

Commission to the Presbytery of Edinburgh.



INDEX OF THE PRINCIPAL ACTS OF THE ASSEMBLY AT ABERDENE, 1640, NOT PRINTED.

Election of Master Andrew Ramsay Moderator.

Act against Prophaning of the Sabbath.

Act anent Charmers.

Act renewing of a former Act made against Priors and Abbots.

Commission for attending the Parliament.

Commission anent the Province of Ross.

Commission anent the Presbytery of Kirkwall.

Act anent the Presbytery-seat of Selkirk.

Report of the Visitors of the University of Glasgow, and a new Commission of Visitation of that University.

Act anent the carriage of Ministers.

Act anent the ordering of Family exercise.

Act for Ruling Elders keeping of Presbyteries.

Act anent Magistrates being Members of Kirk Session.

Approbation of the proceedings of the Commissioners appointed to attend the preceeding Parliament.

Act anent abolishing of Idolatrous Monuments.

Act anent abolishing of idolatrous monuments in and about Aberdene.

The report of the Visitors of the University of Aberdene.

Commission for visiting the University of Aberdene.



INDEX OF THE PRINCIPAL ACTS OF THE ASSEMBLY HOLDEN AT ST. ANDREWS, AND EDINBURGH 1641. NOT PRINTED.

His Majesties Commission to John Earle of Woems.

A Letter from the Parliament to the General Assembly.

Act anent the continuation of Master Andrew Ramsay Moderator.

His Majesties Letter to the Assembly.

Act anent the translation of the Assembly from St. Andrews to Edinburgh.

Election of Master Alexander Henderson Moderator.

Declaration of the Assembly anent the translation thereof to Edinburgh.

Act for drawing up one Catechisme one Confession of Faith directory of publick worship and form of Kirk-government.

Act anent Master Andrew Ramsay's delivery to the Clerk the Books, Warnesius Book, and others which he received at Aberdene.

Overtures anent transportation of Ministers, and plantation of Schooles, recommended to be advised by Synods.

Reference to the Parliament anent the Kirks of Dunkeld.

Act anent Master David Calderwood.

Commission anent erecting of a Presbytery in Biggar.

Commission for visitation of Orknay and Zetland.

Act anent bringing of the Synod books to the Assemblies.

Reference from the Parliament anent a Band and a Paper called a Manifesto.

Act anent the deleting of the Earle of Traquairs Declaration out of the Books of secret Councel.

Report of Overtures made anent the Plantation of Kirks in the High-lands.

Commission for visitation of the University of St. Andrews.

Commission for visitation of the University of Glasgow.

Commission to attend the Parliament.

Reference to that Commission anent the Presbytery of Sky.



INDEX OF THE PRINCIPAL ACTS OF THE ASSEMBLY HOLDEN AT ST. ANDREWS, 27. JULY, 1642. NOT PRINTED.

His Majesties Commission granted to Charles Earle of Dumfermling.

Election of Master Robert Douglas Moderator.

Acceptation of the Commission from the Scottish Kirk at Camphire, granted to Master William Spong.

Act renewing the Commissions for Visitation of the Universities of St. Andrews, and Glasgow.

Act anent delivery of the Irish contribution to the receivers appointed by the secret Council.

Act anent Idolatrous monuments in Ruthwill.

Act anent the Books of the Presbyteries in our Army that went to England.

Act anent the planting of the Kirk of Kilwinning.

Commission anent the erecting of a Presbytery in Biggar.

Act repealing the Act of the Synod of Galloway concerning the tryal of Actual Ministers.

The Kings Declaration anent the gift of 500. Lib.

Act for sending of Expectants to Ireland, and for a Commission to be drawn up to some Ministers to go there.

Recommendation to the Marques of Argyle anent Patrick Egertie Priest, and all other Priests, or sayers of Masse in the North Iles, or within the bounds of his Justiciarie.

Act anent the reponing of Master Gilbert Power.

Act for putting the Overtures anent maintaining of Bursars in every Presbytery in practice.

Report of the Commission for revising of some Synod Books, and the Assemblies approbation.

Act forgiving transumpts of the Covenant and Band.

Act for sending of General Acts of Assemblies to Synods.

Act anent James Murray.

Report of the Committee of reports of the proceedings of the Commissioners of the last Assembly appointed to attend the Parliament, with certain overtures of the Assemblies approbation thereof, with the double of the Signator of 500 lib sent to his Majesty.

Commission for visitation or Orknay and Zetand.

Reference to the Commission of this Assembly, anent the choice of any Minister to go to Ireland, in place of any of the six appointed by this Assembly to that effect, in case they or any of them be impeded by sickness or death.

Recommendation of the Iles, Anandail, Esadail, Liddedail, &c for want of Kirks and Schooles; of the Presbyteries of Lochmaben, and Nowhie, for want of a Civil Magistrate, to the Commission for Plantation of Kirks, and secret Councill, Respective.

Reference to the Commission of this Assembly for planting of the Kirks of Edinburgh.

Act anent Master Colvils invitation to St. Andrews.

Commission anent the planting of the Landwart Kirks of St. Andrews.

References and Overtures, and the Assemblies answer thereto.

Reference to the Commission of this Assembly anent Master James Fairlie.

Reference to the commission of this Assembly anent the planting of the Kirk of Dundie.

Overtures anent the Kirk of Camphire.

Recommendation to the Magistrates of Glasgow anent mundays market.

Act anent giving in to the Clerk the list of Expectants.

Act giving power and liberty to Sir. Archibald Johnstoun Procurator for the Kirk, and Clerk to the General Assembly, to adjoyne any to himself, or to depute in these Offices whom he shall think fit.



INDEX OF THE ACTS OF THE ASSEMBLY HOLDEN AT EDINBURGH, 1643, NOT PRINTED.

The Kings Majesties Commission to Sir. Thomas Hope of Craighall Knight, His Majesties Advocate.

Election of Master Alexander Henderson, Moderatour.

Appointment of Master John Scot, who was sent from the Presbyterie in the Scottish Army in Ireland, to be present in the Assembly every session.

Questions propounded by the moderatour, to some brethren in the North, anent some Papists there, and their answers thereunto.

Commission for visitation of the University of St. Andrews.

Letters from Master William Spang, Minister of the Scot's Kirk at Camphire, with attestations of some Dutch Kirks, anent hanging of Pensils in Kirks, &c.

Act for Summar Excommunication of Adam Abercrombie.

Approbation of the deposition of Master John Forbes, With an ordinance for his Subscribing the Covenant.

Questions from the Presbytery of Hadingtoun, with the Assemblies resolution thereof, anent Sir John Seatan, and his Daughter.

Approbation of the advice of the Commissioners of the late Assembly at St. Andrews, for not Printing two Acts of the last Assembly held at Aberdene.

Approbation of the Lord Maitland his Faithful discharging the Commission given to him by the late Assembly at St. Andrews for repairing to the Kings Majesty and Parliament of England, &c.

Committee appointed to meet with the English Commissioners.

Power of Collectory to Master Robert Dalgliesh, of the annuity of 500. lib, Sterling granted by his Majesty to the Kirk.

Approbation of the Lord Marquesse of Argyle his apprehending Ronald Mackronald Priest.

Approbation of the Laird of Birtenboge, for apprehending John Robeson Priest.

Renounciation of the unlawful Band, conforme to the ordinance of the Assembly at Edinburgh, 1641.

Recommendation anent the captives in Argiers.

Approbation of Master Alexander Henderson his Faithful and wise carriage in discharging of the Commissions given to him by the Commissioners of the late Assembly, forgoing to his Majestie, &c.

Report of the Committee appointed to meet with the English Commissioners.

Report of the Committee appointed for trying the Presbytery of Auchterarder, the Assemblies approbation, admonition and publick rebuke of the several brethren of that Presbytery respective according to their behaviours. An Suspension of Master John Graham, With the ordinance for debarring the Ministers who are Commissioners of that Presbyterie from this Assembly.

Recommendation to the Synod of Perth for reconciling the differences amongst the brethren of that Presbytery.