The History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland

IN so far as by this Proclamation it is made understood to the Church of God, and Members thereof, That the Queen is minded that the true Religion and Worship of God already established, proceed forward, that it may daily increase: Unto the Parliament, that order may be then for extirpation of all Idolatry out of this Realm. We render most hearty thanks to the Lord our God for her Majesties good mind, earnestly praying that it may be increased in her Majesty, To the Honour and Glory of his Name, and Weal of his Church within this Realm. ⟨p. 309⟩And as touching the molestation of her Highness Servants, we suppose that none dare be so bold as once to move their finger at them, in doing of their lawful business: And as for us, we have learned at our Master Christs School, To keep Peace with all men. And therefore for our part we will promise that obedience unto her Majesty (as is our duty) That none of her servants▪ shall be troubled, molested, or once touched, by the Church, or any member thereof, in doing their lawful business. But since that God hath said, That the Idolater shall die the death; We Protest solemnly,¹ in the presence of God, and in the ears of all the people that hears this Proclamation, and especially in the presence of you, Lion Herald, and the rest of your Colleagues, maker of this Proclamation, That if any of her servants shall commit Idolatry, especially say Mass, participate therewith, or take the defence thereof (which we are loath should be in her Highness company) in that case, That this Proclamation is not extended to them in that behalf, nor be not a safe-guard nor girth to them in that behalf, no more then if they commit slaughter or murder, seeing the one is much more abominable and odious in the sight of God, then is the other. But that it may be lawful to inflict upon them the pains contained in Gods Word against Idolaters, where ever they may be apprehended, without favour. And this our Protestation we desire you to notify unto her, and give her the Copy hereof, lest her Highness should suspect an uproar if we should all come and present the same. At Edinburgh, the day and year aforesaid.

IN so far as by this Proclamation it is made understood to the Church of God, and Members thereof, That the Queen is minded that the true Religion and Worship of God already established, proceed forward, that it may daily encrease: Unto the Parliament, that order may be then for extirpation of all Idolatry out of this Realme. We render most hearty thanks to the Lord our God for her Majesties good minde, earnestly praying that it may be encreased in her Majesty, To the Honour and Glory of his Name, and Weal of his Church within this Realme.