The Parliament discussed the method of electing the Lords of the Articles--a method which, in fact, though of prime importance, had varied and continued to vary in practice.

Argyll protested that the constitutional course was for each Estate to elect its own members.

Montrose was already suspected of being influenced by Charles.

Charles refused to call Episcopacy unlawful, or to rescind the old Acts establishing it.

Traquair, as Commissioner, dissolved the Parliament; later Charles refused to meet envoys sent from Scotland, who were actually trying, as their party also tried, to gain French mediation or assistance,--help from "idolaters"! In spring 1640 the Scots, by an instrument called "The Blind Band," imposed taxation for military purposes; while Charles in England called The Short Parliament to provide Supply.