orow-Reformation; since they leave all things more
deformed, disorderly, and discontented then when they began, in point
of Piety, Morality, Charity, and good Order.

Nor can they easily recompence or remedie the inconveniences and
mischiefs which they have purchased so dearly, and which have, and
will ever necessarily ensue, till due remedies be applied.

I wish they would at last make it their unanimous work to do Gods
work, and not their own: Had Religion been first considered (as it
merited) much trouble might have been prevented.

But some men thought, that the Government of this Church and State,
fixed by so many Lawes, and long Customes, would not run into their
new moulds, till they had first melted it in the fire of a Civil Warr;
by the advantages of which they resolved, if they prevailed, to make
my Self and all my Subjects fall down and worship the Images they
should form and set up. If there had been as much of Christs Spirit,
for meeknesse, wisdom and charitie in mens hearts, as there was of his
name used in the pretensions to reform all to Christs Rule, it would
certainly have obtained more of Gods blessing, and produced more of
Christs Glory, the Churches good, the honour of Religion, and the
unity of Christians.

Publick Reformers had need first act in private, and practice that on
their own hearts, which they purpose to try on others; for Deformities
within will soon betray the pretenders of publick Reformations to such
private designs, as must needs hinder the publick good.

I am sure, the right Methods of Reforming the Church, cannot subsist
with that of perturbing the Civil State; nor can Religion be justly
advanced by depressing Loyaltie, which is one of the chiefest
Ingredients, and Ornaments of true Religion: for next to _Fear God_,
is, _Honour the King_.

I doubt not but Christs Kingdom may be set up without pulling down
mine; nor will any men in impartiall times appear good Christians,
that approve not them selves good Subjects.

Christs Government will confirm Mine, not overthrow it, since as I
own Mine from Him, so I desire to rule for his Glory, and his Churches
good.

Had some men truly intended Christs Government, or knew what it meant
in their hearts, they could never have been so ill governed in their
words and actions, both against Me, and one another.

As good ends cannot justifie evill means; so nor will evill beginnings
ever bring forth good conclusions: unless God by a mir