That they had never scrupled, when the interest of their Order was at stake, to call in the aid of the civil sword, or to violate the laws of truth and of good faith, had been proclaimed to the world, not only by Protestant accusers, but by men whose virtue and genius were the glory of the Church of Rome.

It was incredible that a devoted disciple of the Jesuits should be on principle zealous for freedom of conscience: but it was neither incredible nor improbable that he might think himself justified in disguising his real sentiments, in order to render a service to his religion.

It was certain that the King at heart preferred the Churchmen to the Puritans.

It was certain that, while he had any hope of gaining the Churchmen, he had never shown the smallest kindness to the Puritans.

Could it then be doubted that, if the Churchmen would even now comply with his wishes, he would willingly sacrifice the Puritans?
His word, repeatedly pledged, had not restrained him from invading the legal rights of that clergy which had given such signal proofs of affection and fidelity to his house.