It was in these words "I have considered the test, and am very desirous of giving obedience as far as I can.

I am confident that the parliament never intended to impose contradictory oaths: therefore I think no man can explain it but for himself.

Accordingly, I take it as far as it is consistent with itself and the Protestant religion.

And I do declare, that I mean not to bind myself, in my station, and in a lawful way, from wishing and endeavoring any alteration which I think to the advantage of church or state, and not repugnant to the Protestant religion and my loyalty: and this I understand as a part of my oath." The duke, as was natural, heard these words with great tranquillity: no one took the least offence: Argyle was admitted to sit that day in council: and it was impossible to imagine, that a capital offence had been committed, where occasion seemed not to have been given so much as for a frown or reprimand.
Argyle was much surprised, a few days after, to find that a warrant was issued for committing him to prison; that he was indicted for high treason, leasing-making, and perjury; and that from these innocent words an accusation was extracted, by which he was to forfeit honors, life, and fortune.

It is needless to enter into particulars where the iniquity of the whole is so apparent.