But the headship of the English Church is annexed to the English crown; and there is no intolerance in saying that a Church ought not to be subjected to a head who regards her as schismatical and heretical.

[645] After this short interlude the Lords again went into committee.

The Tories insisted that their plan should be discussed before the vote of the Commons which declared the throne vacant was considered.

This was conceded to them; and the question was put whether a Regency, exercising kingly power during the life of James, in his name, would be the best expedient for preserving the laws and liberties of the nation?
The contest was long and animated.

The chief speakers in favour of a Regency were Rochester and Nottingham.