The grand debate between the most reverend bishops and the Presbyterian divines appointed by…

We desire this may be interpreted (if duly qualified) for a scandalous sinner may come to make this thanksgiving.¹

1. 1Excep.

Thus have we in all humble pursuance of his Majesties most gracious endeavours for the public weal of this Church, drawn up our thoughts and desires in this weighty affair, which we most humbly offer to his Majesties Commissioners for their serious and grave consideration: wherein we have not the least thoughts of depraving or reproaching the Book of Common-Prayer, but a sincere desire to contribute our endeavours towards leading the distempers (and as far as may be) reconciling the minds of Brethren. And in as much as his Majesty hath in his gracious Declaration and Commission mentioned new Forms to be made and suited to the several parts of worship: we have made a considerable progress therein, and shall by Gods assistance offer them to the reverend Commissioners with all convenient speed. And if the Lord shall graciously please to give his blessing to these our endeavours, we doubt not but that the peace of this Church will be shortly settled, The hearts of Ministers and People comforted and composed, and the great mercy of Unity and Stability (to the immortal honour of our most dear Sovereign) bestowed upon us, and our posterity after us.

THus have we in all humble pursuance of his Majesties most gracious endeavours for the publick weal of this Church, drawn up our thoughts and desires in this weighty affair, which we most humbly offer to his Majesties Commissioners for their serious and grave confideration: wherein we have not the least thoughts of depraving or reproaching the Book of Common-Prayer, but a sincere desire to contribute our endeavours towards leading the distempers (and as far as may be) reconciling the minds of Brethren. And in as much as his Majesty hath in his gracious Declaration ond Commission mentioned new Forms to be made and suited to the several parts of worship: we have made a considerable progresse therein, and shall by Gods assistance offer them to the reverend Commissioners with all convenient speed. And if the Lord shall graciously please to give his blessing to these our endeavours, we doubt not but that the peace of this Church will be shortly setled, The hearts of Ministers and People comforted and composed, and the great mercy of Unity and Stability (to the immortal honour of our most dear Soveraign) bestowed upon us, and our posterity after us.