then will some say, this Plea and Pretence might serve
to justifie the late Tyrant and [unr] Cavary [unr] it might justifie
Ravilliau for mur[unr]ering Henry the fourth; as also
Garnet, Faux, Catesby, and the rest, for the Pouder-plot
Not a Priest or Jesuit, but hath the same; nor shall there
be any Traitors in all ages hereafter, but may with as much
reason make use of it(upon all occasions) to plead exemption
and Indemnity. Away then with this Clergy pretence; let
it not be once named among Christians, but exploded as
the very Pest of Civil society.
But perhaps the sparing of the Traitor may be a means
to reconcile those of his own opinion, and bring them into
union with the Commonwealth. Let them in the first place
take shame to themselves by an acknowledgement of their
offences; Let their Repentance be now as loudly and openly
professed in the Pulpit, as their former Follies, and
then afterward 'tis possible there may be an union; but a
union carried on upon any other Terms, speaks out some
Clerical designe under a specious out-side: Besides, honest
men say it is worthy consideration, what comfort may be
had from such an union, if the Foundation be laid in the
guilt of unexpiated Bloud and Treason.
And if they please to consult their beloved Brother Mr.
Case, in his Sermon preached before the Court, martiall in
London, in the year 1644. he will give them other Doctrim
to put in practice; where he tells you, Such is Gods care of
humane societies and Associations, that even where sometimes
he useth his Prenogative-Royall for the pardon of the
[unr]in against himself and remitting the ever lasting punishment,
yet he commandeth his. Deputies and Vice-gerents not to forgive
the Trespass, whether it be against a privat person, or
a publick State, but to execute the proportionable Penalties;
as life for life, and bloud for bloud; without shewing
any mercy at all. As in the case of Murther, ye shall take
no satisfaction for the life of a Murtherer which is guilty
of death. But he shall be SURELY put to death: And the
reason is given. So shall ye not pollute the Land, wherein you