and manifest danger to the same.

2. As the happy Union of the Kingdoms, by the solemn League and Covenant
hath been justly looked upon as a speciall means for preserving and
strengthening the true Reformed Religion in this Island, So it is no lesse
weakened & hurt by endeavouring a breach between these Kingdoms; Which
howsoever disclaimed, is yet manifest from the reality of the publike
proceedings in this Engagement, and namely from the neglect of
endeavouring a Treaty between the Kingdoms for preventing of War and
bloodshed as was earnestly desired, from their associating and joyning
with known Malignants and Incendiaries, and such as have been declared
Enemies to this Cause, from their entring the Kingdom of _England_ with an
Army, upon the grounds of the Declaration of the Parliament, which cannot
but infer a National quarrel against the Parliament and Kingdom of
_England_, and from their garrisoning the frontire Towns of that Kingdom.

3. The Engagement is carried on by such means and ways, as tend to the
destroying of Religion, by ensnaring and forcing the consciences of the
people of God with unlawfull Bands and Oathes, and oppressing the Persons
and Estates of such as have been most active and zealous for Religion and
the Covenant. All which is strengthened and authorized by Acts of
Parliament, appointing that all that do not obey, or perswade others not
to obey the Resolutions of Parliament and Committee anent this Engagement,
or who shall not subscribe the Act and Declaration of the 10. _June_,
1648. imposed upon all the Subjects, shall be holden as enemies to the
Cause and to Religion, and have their persons secured, and their Estates
intromitted with.

4. The Engagement is carried on, not without great encroachments upon the
Liberties of the Kirk, as we are ready to clear in many particulars.

Wherefore the security of Religion, and carrying on of the present
Engagement being inconsistent, We do propose for the necessary security
and safety of Religion, that all the dangers thereof may be taken to
consideration, and amongst the rest the said Engagement as one of the
greatest which yet being established and authorized by Act of Parliament,
we leave it to their Lordships to think of what remedies may be provided
for redressing grievances which flow from such Acts and Ordinances. This
we are sure of, the publike desires of the Kirk will abundantly witnesse
for us, that such things as were necessary for the s