Bishop Burnet signalized his zeal for the government by a long speech in favour of the bill, contradicting some of the fundamental maxims which he had formerly avowed in behalf of the liberties of the people.

At length it was carried by a majority of seven voices; and one-and-forty lords, including eight prelates, entered a protest couched in the strongest terms against the decision.
When the bill received the royal assent, another act of the like nature passed against Barclay, Holmes, and nine other conspirators who had fled from justice, in case they should not surrender themselves on or before the twenty-fifth day of March next ensuing.

Sir John Fenwick solicited the mediation of the lords in his behalf, while his friends implored the royal mercy.

The peers gave him to understand that the success of his suit would depend upon the fulness of his discoveries.

He would have previously stipulated for a pardon, and they insisted upon his depending on their favour.