The Pastoral Letter had been written in 1689, and was therefore covered by the Act of Grace which had been passed in 1690.

Yet a member was not ashamed to say, "No matter: impeach him; and force him to plead the Act." Few, however, were disposed to take a course so unworthy of a House of Commons.

Some wag cried out, "Burn it; burn it;" and this bad pun ran along the benches, and was received with shouts of laughter.

It was moved that the Pastoral Letter should be burned by the common hangman.

A long and vehement debate followed.