By virtue of an act passed in the late reign, the parliament continued sitting even after the king's death.

Both houses met immediately, and unanimously voted an address of condolence and congratulation; and in the afternoon the queen was proclaimed.

Next day the lords and commons severally attended her with an address, congratulating her majesty's accession to the throne; and assuring her of their firm resolution to support her against all her enemies whatsoever.

The lords acknowledged that their great loss was no otherwise to be repaired but by a vigorous adherence to her majesty and her allies, in the prosecution of those measures already concerted to reduce the exorbitant power of France.

The commons declared they would maintain the succession of the crown in the protestant line, and effectually provide for the public credit of the nation.