The king first applied to the Scottish parliament, and desired an indulgence for the Catholics alone, without comprehending the Presbyterians: but that assembly, though more disposed than even the parliament of England to sacrifice their civil liberties, resolved likewise to adhere pertinaciously to their religion; and they rejected, for the first time, the king's application.

James therefore found himself obliged to exert his prerogative; and he now thought it prudent to interest a party among his subjects, besides the Catholics, in supporting this act of authority.

To the surprise of the harassed and persecuted Presbyterians, they heard the principles of toleration every where extolled, and found that full permission was granted to attend conventicles; an offence which, even during this reign, had been declared no less than a capital enormity.

The king's declaration, however, of indulgence, contained clauses sufficient to depress their joy.

As if Popery were already predominant, he declared, "that he never would use force or invincible necessity against any man on account of his persuasion of the Protestant religion;" a promise surely of toleration given to the Protestants with great precaution, and admitting a considerable latitude for persecution and violence.