The lower house of convocation had, before the queen's death, declared that a book published by Dr.Samuel Clarke, under the title of "The Scripture Doctrine of the Trinity," contained assertions contrary to the catholic faith.

They sent up extracts from this performance to the bishops, and the doctor wrote an answer to their objections.

He was prevailed upon to write an apology, which he presented to the upper house; but apprehending it might be published separately, and misunderstood, he afterwards delivered an explanation to the bishop of London.

This was satisfactory to the bishops; but the lower house resolved that it was no recantation of his heretical assertions.

The disputes about the Trinity increasing, the archbishops and bishops received directions, which were published, for preserving unity in the church, the purity of the christian faith concerning the holy Trinity, and for maintaining the peace and quiet of the state.