The History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland

While that some began to give, as it were▪ their Votes (for some were appointed, as it were, leaders of the rest) John Knox said; My Lords, I suppose you will not do contrary to your Lordships promise made to the whole Assembly, which was, That nothing should be voted in secret, till that first all matters should be debated in public, and that then the Votes of the whole Assembly should put end to the controversy. Now have I only sustained the argument, and have rather shown my conscience in most simple manner, then that I have insisted upon the force and vehemency of any one argument: And therefore I for my part utterly dissent from all voting, until the whole Assembly have heard the Propositions and the Reasons of both parties; for I unfeignedly acknowledge, That many in that company are more able to sustain the argument then I am.

While that some began to give, as it were▪ their Votes (for some were appointed, as it were, leaders of the rest) Iohn Knox said; My Lords, I suppose you will not do contrary to your Lordships promise made to the whole Assembly, which was, That nothing should be voted in secret, till that first all matters should be debated in publike, and that then the Votes of the whole Assembly should put end to the controversie. Now have I onely sustained the argument, and have rather shewn my conscience in most simple manner, then that I have insisted upon the force and vehemency of any one argument: And therefore I for my part utterly disassent from all voting, untill the whole Assembly have heard the Propositions and the Reasons of both parties; for I unfainedly acknowledge, That many in that company are more able to sustain the argument then I am.

Think ye it reasonable (said Lethington) That such a multitude as are now convened, should reason and vote in such heads and matters that concerns the Queens Majesties own Person and Affairs.