Under such a nursing father the interests of the kingdom of Christ fared as might have been expected.

Rigorous measures were instituted for the suppression of nonconformity, Quaker preachers were severely dealt with, and clergymen, such as they were, were imposed upon the more or less reluctant parishes.

But though the governor held the right of presentation, the vestry of each parish asserted and maintained the right of induction or of refusing to induct.

Without the consent of these representatives of the people the candidate could secure for himself no more than the people should from year to year consent to allow him.

It was the only protection of the people from absolute spiritual despotism.