They thought that a general opposition could hardly be expected, and that a partial opposition would be ruinous to individuals, and of little advantage to the Church and to the nation.

Such was the opinion given at this time by Halifax and Nottingham.

The day drew near; and still there was no concert and no formed resolution.

[359] At this conjuncture the Protestant Dissenters of London won for themselves a title to the lasting gratitude of their country.

They had hitherto been reckoned by the government as part of its strength.