would not have done so, if lenity and forbearance had been manifested towards them in the difficult position in which they stood with respect to the Oath. It might not have been easy for William to refuse to listen to those who urged him forward; since hesitation on his part would have exposed him to the charge of deserting his most active supporters; but the exercise of forbearance towards men, whose only crime, even in the estimation of their enemies, was their regard for a solemn oath, would have produced the happiest results. It must be a source of thankfulness, that the schism was not more fatal in its consequences. Had there been no dissensions among the Nonjurors themselves in subsequent reigns, the separation would not only have continued longer, but it would have been of a more serious character.
The reflections of some of our historians, on the non-complying Bishops, are very uncharitable. Thus Kennet remarks, "Though they had earnestly desired the Prince's coming, and had the chief of them addressed themselves to him after he was come, to take the administration of affairs: yet, as if they would have him their redeemer without being their protector, they did not care to pay any allegiance to him, nor to renounce their obligations to King James. This example of the Prelates and Clergy had a great influence on many other members of the Church of England; and it was their disaffection that made the King more inclinable to favour the Dissenters, whom he generally looked upon as better affected to his person and title."[1] There was no inconsistency, as Kennet insinuates: for though they wished the Prince to act as a mediator, they did not contemplate the
- ↑ Kennet, iii. 518.
