The wiser and more moderate Whigs, sensible that the throne of William could not stand firm if it had not a wider basis than their own party, abstained at this conjuncture from sneers and invectives, and exerted themselves to remove the scruples and to soothe the irritated feelings of the clergy.

The collective power of the rectors and vicars of England was immense: and it was much better that they should swear for the most flimsy reason that could be devised by a sophist than they should not swear at all.
It soon became clear that the arguments for swearing, backed as they were by some of the strongest motives which can influence the human mind, had prevailed.

Above twenty-nine thirtieths of the profession submitted to the law.

Most of the divines of the capital, who then formed a separate class, and who were as much distinguished from the rural clergy by liberality of sentiment as by eloquence and learning, gave in their adhesion to the government early, and with every sign of cordial attachment.

Eighty of them repaired together, in full term, to Westminster Hall, and were there sworn.