It is certain that this book may be read with some profit[124], that it contains many curious things, but some others also that are very bold, and very false.

Such as are acquainted with the just rights of the two powers will never grant to Grotius, that the Sovereign has a right to judge in councils, to alter their decisions, and to depose the Ministers of the Church.

Most of the proofs on which he builds consist of ambiguous passages, which he strains to his opinion by forced explanations.

This work discovers rather the great lawyer, than the exact divine; and, what is singular, the author is afraid he has not granted enough to the Civil Magistrate, and been too favourable to the claims of the Clergy.

He knew, however, that it would not please the King of Great Britain; and the Bishops of that kingdom were of opinion he had given too much authority to the Secular Power in things sacred: It is probable the Letter sent by the States of Holland and West-Friesland, in 1618, to King James I.was written by Grotius: it is his style and sentiments.