untenance given by those of the
Presbyterian Church in England who were present, was encouraging and
estimable, as it might have been expected; while the approving
sentiments expressed by those from the Presbyterian Church in Ireland,
in their circumstances, were truly honouring to them, and to that
community. It was becoming others that by deputation they testified to
their approval of the step taken at the great disruption. And, though
what is here said is asserted on individual responsibility alone, it is
declared, without fear of being in error, that another Community in the
land--who consider it to be their duty to adhere to the whole of the
Second Reformation, and to the testimonies of the martyrs who suffered
after it, though not present by representation at the memorable
secession, in order to signify their approbation, do rejoice at the
step, and trust to see it followed by other procedures alike faithful.

The importance of the effects that are possible to follow from the
disruption, demands the exercise of great wisdom on the part of the
Protesting Church. Not less than the power to originate the great
movement that has taken place, is requisite ability to direct it aright.
The people of Scotland, like a mighty mass, have been brought to act;
much depends upon the plan according to which the moving body may be
made to bear. The future interests of the land, under Providence, would
seem to be in the hands of those who now guide the ecclesiastical
movement. The destinies of Scotland were in the hands of a few in days
of peril. They were not unworthy of the trust committed to them. By the
adoption of the same principles which the martyrs practically
illustrated, be it the honour of the Protesting Church, free from
persecution, if the Lord will, but still faithfully, though called to
suffering, to transmit to posterity a legacy, ennobling and beneficial
as that which those left.

It is necessary that the Church of Christ should proceed on principles
laid down in the Divine word. When it does not do this, it acts not in
character, but gives the enemies of the truth occasion to load it with
reproach. The "Free Presbyterian Church" sustaining, as we conceive, the
character of a Church of Christ, should do so in all things.

It is Presbyterian, and is therefore called to base its attachment to
that form of government, on the principle, that it is of Divine right.
To maintain, or admit, that other forms of Church go