The people in general exclaimed, that the dignity of their crown was betrayed; that the independency of their nation had fallen a sacrifice to treachery and corruption; that whatever conditions might be speciously offered, they could not expect they would be observed by a parliament in which the English had such a majority.

They exaggerated the dangers to which the constitution of their church would be exposed from a bench of bishops, and a parliament of episcopalians.

This consideration alarmed the presbyterian ministers to such a degree, that they employed all their power and credit in waking the resentment of their hearers against the treaty, which produced an universal ferment among all ranks of people.
Even the most rigid puritans joined the cavaliers in expressing their detestation of the union; and laying aside their mutual animosities, promised to co-operate in opposing a measure so ignominous and prejudicial to their country.

In parliament, the opposition was headed by the dukes of Hamilton and Athol, and the marquis of Annandale.

The first of these noblemen had wwered so much in his conduct, that it is difficult to ascertain his real political principles.