I. The Recording of His Majestie's Commission, To the Lord CARMICHAEL, for Representing His MAJESTY in this Assembly.
At Edinburgh, January 20, 1699. Sess. 1.

THIS Day, The General Assembly of the Ministers and Elders of this Na­tional Church, being Conveened, There was produced to them, by a Noble Lord, JOHN Lord Car­michael, His Majestie's Commission, under the great Seal of this King­dom, Nominating and Appointing Him to be His Majestie's High Commissioner and Representative in this National As­sembly, which was publickly Read in their Audience, with all due Honour and Respect, and the General As­sembly [Page 4]Appointed, and hereby Appoints, the same to be Recorded in the Registers of this Assembly, therein to remain ad futuram rei Memoriam; The Tenor whereof fol­lows.

GƲLIELMƲS Dei Gratia, Magnae Britanniae, Fran­ciae & Hiberniae Rex, Fideique Defensor: ‘Omnibus probis Hominibus suis, ad quos praesentes Literae No­strae pervenerint, Salutem, Quandoquidem Generalem Ecclesiae Conventum, Antiquioris Regni nostri Sco­tiae vicesimo die Mensis Januarii instantis teneri de­crevimus, Nosque item abunde cupidi, quin etiam ne­cessarium esse Judicantes in commodum dictae Ecclesiae, ut idem Generalis Conventus Die statuto observetur, sed rebus magni momenti alio vocantibus, dicto conventui inter­esse nequimus, Cumque Fidelissimus & Dilectissimus noster Consiliarius Joannes Dominus Carmichael, perpluri­ma praeclara edidit specimina de Facultatibus suis exi­miis, & fidelitate insigni, unde nobis abunde Satisfactum est, Quod ad munera summi Officii Infra mentionati ri­te Exercenda & obeunda, in finem supra expressum usquequaque est idoneus. Noveritis igitur nos fecisse & Constituisse, sicuti per hasce nostras patentes literas fa­cimus & constituimus Eundem Joannem Dominum Car­michael, Supremum Nostrum Commissionarium quoad Effectum infra expressum; Damus pariter & concedi­mus illi, Sacram nostram personam, & Authoritatem Nostram Regalem Representandi, praesentiam no­stram supplendi, locumque nostrum in dicto Subsequen­ti Generali Conventu, tanquam Commissionario nostro in hunc Effectum, specialiter constituto tenendi, omnia­que alia ad Imperium & munus Commissionarii, pro Generali Ecclesiae Conventu peragendi, tam plene, adeo­que libere, in quovis respectu, quam Quilibet alius ejus­dem Supremi muneris & Characteris fecerat, seu quovis tempore retroacto facere poterat; atque sicuti Nos ipsi personaliter praesentes facere poterimus, Plenissimam & Amplissimam nostram potestatem & Commissionem. Quaequidem omnia & singula, a dicto Joanne Domino Carmichael, in hac nostra Commissione prosequenda le­gitime facienda, Nos firmiter Approbamus, Rata habe­mus, & habituri sumus. Omnibus & Singulis insuper ante dicti Conventus & Ecclesiae Pastoribus & Pres­byteris, & caeteris quibuscunque hujus Regni subditis, cujuscunque qualitatis & conditionis, ut dictum Joannem Dominum Carmichael, tanquam Supremum nostrum Commissionarium quoad Effectum & modum supra men­tionatum Agnoscant, Revereantur, & dicto ipsius au­dientes se praebeant, stricte mandamus, & imperamus. [Page 5]Ac denique hanc Nostram Commissionem, a die quo magnum Nostrum Sigillum hujus Regni praesentibus est appensum, & deinceps hac Sessione sequenti Generalis Conventus antedicti in vigore continuare declaravimus, & per praesentes Declaramus, Saltem usque dum a No­bis revocabitur. In cujus rei Testimonium, praesenti­bus Magnum Sigillum Nostrum appendi praecepimus. Apud Aulam nostram de Kensingtoun, septimo die men­sis Januarii. Anno Domini Millesimo Sexcentesimo Nonagesimo Nono, Regnique nostri Anno Decimo.’

Per signaturam manu S. D. N. Regis suprasignatam.

• Locus
• Sigilli
• Appensi

IN DORSO.

Written to the great Seal, and Registrat the eighteenth day of January 1699. Charles Ker.

Sealed at Edinburgh, the ninteenth day of Ja­nuary 1699. A. Home.

II. His MAJESTIE'S gracious LETTER TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Eadem Sessione.

THE which Day, His MAJESTIE'S High COMMISSIONER presented His Majestie's Most Gracious LETTER, Directed to this General Assembly, which was publickly Read in their Hearing, with all due Honour and Respect, and appoint­ed to be Recorded in their Registers, The Tenor whereof follows.

III. The General Assemblies Answer. TO His Majestie's Gracious Letter
Edinburgh, January 24 1699. Post Meridiem Sess. 4.

THE Renewed Testimonies of Your Majesty's care and concern for this Church, so amply sig­nified by your Gracious Letter, are received by Us with all Satisfaction and Acknowledgment; And cannot but engage Us to double our Diligence in Pro­secuting the Duties of promoting Religion, Order and Discipline, Planting of Vacant Churches, and Suppres­sing of Error and Immorality, which Your Majesty par­ticularly Recommends, with the most obliging Assur­ances of all due encouragement and Assistance.

What Your Majesty recommended to the last Assem­bly as to the Planting of the North; hath been minded by them, and their Commission and Committees im­powered for that effect, to the remotest parts of the King­dom, and even to the Isles of Orknay and Zetland with a considerable progress: And We are firmly re­solved to continue Our best endeavours for accomplishing so good and necessary a Work; Nor can We omit to notice that Your Majesties Royal Bounty, did very sea­sonably contribute, to make Our Labours in that matter more easy and effectual.

Nothing can be more rejoyceing to Us, Then to see Your Majestie's Zeal against Error and Immorality, which make Us presume to beg, for Your renewed Com­mands to those concerned, that Your excellent Laws against Prophanity (that to Our great Greif still grows) may be put to vigorous Execution, without exception, And we earnestly pray and hope, that GOD who pre­served Your Majesty, during a long and dangerous War, and Blessed Your Conduct and Valour, with the con­clusion of a happy Peace; will still support, and assist Your Royal Endeavours, in reforming the manners of this Profligat Age, and preserve You till that great Work be accomplished.

We do also acknowledge the good choise, that it hath pleased Your Majesty to make of the Lord Carmichael, to represent Your Royal Person in this Assembly; whose faithfulness to Your Majesty, as well as his kind affection to Us, do render him most acceptable.

That Your Majestie's Reign may be long and happy, that all Your Subjects may continually make suitable re­turns of Duty, and gratitude, for all the Labours and dangers You have undergone, for their Tranquillity: And that Truth and Peace may ever flourish in Your Dayes, are, and shall be the fervent Prayers of.

IV. Act annexing some parishes to the Presbytries of Stranrauer and Wigton.
Eadem Sessione.

THE General Assembly having heard and consider­ed, the Opinion of the Committee for Overtures; Did by their Vote disjoin the Parishes of Ballintrae and Calmonel, from the Presbytry of Aire, and annexes them to the Presbytry of Stranrauer; and likeways disjoines the Parishes of Kirkmabreck, Kells, Dalry and Carsefairn from the Presbytry of Kirkcubright, and annexes them to the Presbytry of Wigton, which Presbytry of Wigton may meet at Monygaff frequently, and this but preju­dice to the Presbytries of Air and Kirkcubright, or any others concerned, to be heard against the Continuation [Page 9]of this alteration, at the next, or any other ensuing Ge­neral Assembly: And it is appointed and declared, that this Act, as to the said Dis-union and Annexation, shall commence at the first day of March next to come, and the General Assembly ordains the Ministers of the Respective Parishes above-named so dis-joined and annex­ed, to be advertised hereof, and to give obedience thereto, as they will be answerable, and that Letters be written to the Presbytries concerned for that end.

V. Act anent Proclamation of Banns.
Edinburgh, 25 January 1699. Post merid. Sess. 5.

THE General Assembly taking to their consideration, the Overtures past in the last Assembly, dated the 24 day of January 1698, Entituled, Overtures anent Pro­clamation of Banns. The Tenor whereof follows.

The General Assembly being informed, That several Abuses have crept in, in the way and manner of pro­claiming the Banns of Persons to be Married; Do for pre­venting the same, Overture and Declare, that before any Proclamations be made, the Names and Designations of the Persons to be Married, and their Parents, Tutors, or Curators, if they any have, be given up to the Minister of the Bounds, in which any of them live and reside, that thereby it may be known, if their Parents and Friends give consent thereto; And that the Minister being satis­fied herein, order the Proclamation to be made three se­veral Sabbaths, which when made, shall be immediat­ly before Divine Worship begin, in the Forenoon, and the Persons to be proclaimed, their Names and full De­signations, such as they are designed by in Writes or Con­tracts of Marriage, be fully and audibly expressed, and that where there are more Churches Collegiat in the place or Town, the Proclamations be made, in all and every one of the Churches, within the City or Town, where they, or any of the Persons to be Married reside; And this to be attested to the Minister that Marries them, with certification of the Censures of the Church against the Transgressours herein.

And the General Assembly, having heard the Report of the several Commissioners from Presbytries now present, to whom the consideration of the said Overture was re­commended [Page 10]in order to its being more ripely advised, and determined in this Assembly; And finding that the several Presbytries were satisfied therewith: Therefore this General Assembly by their Vote, unanimously did, and hereby do approve of the saids Overtures, and ap­points the same to have the full force, and strength of an Act of the General Assembly, in all time coming, and that none may pretend Ignorance, Appoints the same to be intimate in all the Parish Kirks of this Kingdom.

VI. Act of the General Assembly anent a Solemn National Fast and Humiliation.
At Edinburgh, the 26 January 1699. Post merid. Sess. 6.

THE General Assembly taking into their serious con­sideration, That the many grievous and most hain­ously aggravated Sins and Abominations abounding and still continuing in this Land, have procured and drawn from the hands of the Just and Holy LORD, the La­mentable stroak of Dearth, and Ʋnseasonable Weather in Seed Time and Harvest, which as it hath redacted many Families of the Nation already into great Straits, so if Mercy prevent not, threatens dreadful Famine: As likewayes considering the sadly distressed state of some of the Reformed Churches Abroad, under Grievous Persecution, and the Dangerous Condition of others of them, which loudly call for our humbling our selves for our own Sins, and for sympathy with others, and frequent Prayer for our selves and them: Have therefore thought it a neces­sary and seasonable Duty, to set a part, and hereby do set a part, and appoint the [...] Day of March next being Thursday, for Solemn Humiliation and Prayer, That GOD would pardon our Sins, turn away and avert his Wrath from this and other Churches, Command De­liverance for his Afflicted People under persecution, Bless and preserve Our King, under whose Government we enjoy so much peace, and Tranquillity and Liberty of Gospel Ordinances, dispensed with purity and freedom; That God may continue the same with Us, and Bless the Gospel with success, grant a Seasonable Seed time, and Bless the Seed with Encrease, that the Poor may be satis­fied with Bread; Obtesting and beseeching all Ranks of Persons to search and try their ways, and by unfeigned Re­pentance [Page 11]and Reformation, turn to the Lord with all their Heart, that the Lord may return to us, and have Mercy upon us and the Land, and it is most seriously Recom­mended to all Ministers, to be very explicite and partcu­lar in the acknowledgement of the National, and Epide­mick crying Sins, especially these that seem to abound in the Respective places, where Ministers serve. And the General Assembly ordains all Ministers to intimate this pub­lickly from the Pulpit a Sabbath or two before the said day of Humiliation. And lastly the General Assembly appoint­ed, and hereby appoints Mr. William Dunlop, Mr. George Meldrum, Mr. John Law, Mr. Thomas Wilkie, Mr. Ga­briel Semple Ministers, Mr. John Campbel Brother to the Earl of Argyle, Sir John Riddel of that Ilk, Sir Thomas Kil­patrick of Closburn, and John Alexander of Black-House Ruling Elders, to apply to the Lords of his Majesties Privy Council, for their Civil Sanction to the observation of the said Fast, and leaves it to their Lordships to name the day of the Moneth of March, for the said Fast.

VII. Act against Prophainess,
At Edinburgh 30 January 1699. Ante merid. Ses. 9.

THE General Assembly taking to their consideration, the Overtures against Prophanness, past by the last Assembly January 24. 1698. Ses. 15. And hav­ing heard the Report of Commissioners present, from the several Presbytries of this National Church, to whom the consideration of the saids Overtures were recommended; And the General Assembly being well and ripely advised thereanent, did by their Vote, and hereby do approve of these Overtures after mentioned, whereof the Tenor fol­lowes.

1st. The General Assembly considering the Lamen­table Grouth of Prophanity, Ignorance and Irreligion, that is too manifest in this Land, and the woful Decay of the Life and Power of Godliness, with the small Success of the Gospel, that's to be observed every where, at this time, the General Assembly, in a deep sense of these things, And for the Remeeding of them, do in the First place, In the [Page 12]aw, and dread of GOD, Beseech, Exhort and Require, all Ministers, by the Coming of our LORD Jesus Christ, and our gathering together unto him, That they take heed to themselves, and to their Doctrine, and endeavour to be Ensamples to the People, in all Piety, Purity, and Holi­ness, in all manner of Conversation.

2. That they be Frequent and Fervent in Secret pray­er, for themselves, and the People committed to them, Joining sometime Fasting with prayer. And the General Assembly Recommends to Ministers, and Elders in their several Parishes, and Ministers in their several Presbytries, to meet sometimes together in their Parishes, and Presby­tries Respective, for private Fasting and Prayer and Con­ference anent the state of the Church, and that part of it, in which they have special interest; with Respect to the Grouth or Decay of Godliness, and Success of the Gospel therein.

3. That Presbytries, be more Accurate in managing their privy Censures, and that a day be set apart to that purpose only, and spent in Fasting and Prayer together.

4. That Presbytries be very Cautious, in admitting Intrants to the Ministry, and be Accurate and Exact in the Tryal, not only of their Literature, but of their Piety, Prudence, and former Godly Conversation and Walk.

5. That Ministers be painful in Catechising, frequent in Visiting of Families, and in privat Personal Confer­ence with these of their Charge, about the State of their Souls, and that Ministers be more frequent in administrati­on of the Lords Supper, and alwise Edifying in their Con­verse and Discourse, and that they deal with Heads of Fa­milies to engage them to Piety, and a care to Reform their Families, and to set up, and to keep up the Worship of GOD therein; And in particular, that Ministers endea­vour by all Prudent and gaining Gospel methods, to engage Persons of Honour and Power to fall in love with Holiness, and reckon it, as in deed it is, their greatest Ho­nour; And that in dealing with such of them, as are Vi­tious, an Humble and yet Holy Boldness and Zeal, be us­ed in admonishing them, in order to their Recovery: And that herein Presbytries appoint some others of their number, to Concur with the Minister of the place as may be most for Edification.

6. The General Assembly Recommends, to the Kirk Sessions and Presbytries, the Vigorous, Impartial, and yet Prudent Exercise of Church-Discipline against all Immo­rality, Especially Drunkeness, and Filthyness, Cursing and Swearing, and Prophaning the Lords day, which too much abound: And that they apply to the Magistrat, for the [Page 13]Execution of the Good Lawes, made against Immorality and Prophanness,

7. That seing it is observed, that in Burghs, especi­ally these of greatest Resort, as Edinburgh, many sit too late in Taverns especially on the Saturdays night, and Men of Business, pretend they do it for Relaxation of their Mindes; through which some neglect the Publick Worship on the LORDS-Day in the Forenoon; and others attend the Worship drousily: Therefore the General Assembly Recommends to all Ministers, where such sinful customs are, to represent to the People both publickly and privatly the sin and evil thereof, and to call them to Redeem that time, which they have free from Business; And to Em­ploy it for Converse with GOD about their Souls state, and in preparation for the Sabbath, which will yeeld more delight, than all sensual pleasures can do.

And the General Assembly Beseecheth, and Exhorteth all Magistrates of Burghs, to be assistant to Ministers, in Enquiring into, and Reforming such abuses.

And siclike the General Assembly, Revives the Act of the General Assembly, dated the 11th, January 1697. Sess. 8. Entituled Act against Prophanness, and approves of the Overture therein contained anent Censuring such Mini­sters and Members of Sessions, as are negligent in pursuing Scandals.

And the General Assembly Recommends and Enacts, the punctual observation of the saids Acts and Overtures, and obedience thereto by all Presbytries, Ministers, El­ders and Sessions, as they are concerned, in their several stations, as they will be Answerable.

VIII. Act against Popery, Eodem die post meridiem Ses. 10.

THE General Assembly taking to consideration, the Overtures against Popery past in the last Assem­bly January 24 1698. the Tenor whereof fol­lowes.

1st. That Ministers study Popish Controversies more.

[Page 14]2. That all due endeavours be used, to Unite Pro­testants amonst themselves, seing the Adversaries get ad­vantage by our Division.

3. That Ministers endeavour Faithfully to watch the Flock committed to them, and by publick Preaching, and private Instruction, and conference, to prevent Apostacie that way.

4. That Ministers deal wisely, and convincingly with the Consiences of these that have fallen to popery, and other Corrupt principles, for their Recovery.

5. That when other means are ineffectual, Presby­tries would proceed to Church Censures, when they see it may be for the Edification of the Church.

6. That according to the Acts of former General Assemblies, and Acts of Parliament, The Names of po­pish Priests and Jesuits and Traffequing papists, and of these who have sent their Children to popish Colledges and Countreys, be given in to each provincial Synod, and by them Transmitted as Act Char. 2. Par. 3. Cap. 6.

7. That the General Assembly apply to the Privy Coun­cil for the Vigorous Execution of the Laws against papists, particularly Seminary priests, Popish School-Masters, Mis­tresses, Governours and Paedagogues, and Popish meet­ings; and for seeing to the Training up of Popish Youth in the Protestant Religion; In all which, some Inferiour Magistrates are justly complained of, as very defective, and that the said address be presented by such as the Gene­ral Assembly shall appoint.

And the General Assembly having heard the Opinion, of the Commissioners from the several Presbytries, con­cerning the saids Overtures, and finding that there was no objection made against any thing therein contained, and that application being made to the Lords of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council, conform to the seventh paragraph of the saids Overtures, their Lordships were graciously pleased to emit a Proclamation thereupon against papists; and the General Assembly being well and ripely advised anent the premisses: They by their Vote unanimosly did, and hereby do approve of the saids Over­tures, and appoints the same to have the full force and strength of an Act of the General Assembly, and to be ob­served in all time coming, and ordains Application to be made to the Civil Magistrat conform to the said seventh paragraph, as offen as need requires.

IX. Ast anent Planting of the Highlands.
Eadem Sessione.

THE General Assembly took to their consideration the Overtures past in the last General Assembly, January 24. 1698. Sess. 15. Entituled, Overtures for Plant­ing the Highlands. The Tenor whereof follows.

1. That Ministers and Probationers, who have the Irish Language, be sent to the Highland pa [...]ishes, and that none of them be setled in the Low-Country, till the Highland places be first provided.

2. That Ministers and Ruling Elders, who have the Irish Language, be appointed to visit these parts.

3. That where in any Highland Congregation, many understand English, and there used once a day to be a Sermon in English, Presbytries be careful to supply them sometimes by preaching in English; and that they Cate­chise them who understand not, by an Interpreter, when they cannot get one to preach to them in Irish, and that these, whether Ministers or Probationers, who have some what of the Irish Language, but not a facility to preach in it, be sent to these places for the ends forsaid, that by converse they may Learn more of the Language, and ability to instruct therein.

4. That English School-Masters be erected in all Highland parishes, according to former Acts of Parlia­ment and General Assemblies: And for this end, The General Assembly Recommends to their Commission, to Address the King and Parliament, to take such course for this, and other pious uses in the more Northern High­land places, as is granted to these of Argyle, and that as they shall think fit.

5. That it be recommended to Presbytries and Uni­versities, to have a special regard in the disposal of their Bursaries for Educating such, as it is hoped may be use­ful to preach the Gospel in the Highlands: And that the Commission Address the Lords of the Thesaury: and recommend the same to the Town Council of Edinburgh, and other Patrons for this end.

And the General Assembly having heard the Report, and the Opinion of the Commissioners present from the several Presbytries anent the saids Overtures; did by their Vote, and hereby do unanimously approve thereof, and [Page 16]Appoints and Recommends according thereto; With this Addition, that the Presbytries of Dumbartoun, Dum­blain, Auchterarder, Dunkeld, Inverness, Abernethy, Aber­loure, Tain, Dingwall, Dornock and Caithness; are hereby enjoined, to have Bursers, who have the Highland Lan­guage, if they can be had, and that the Universities where such Students are, be wrot to, to give an account what Students having that Language they know of, that deserve encouragement, and that they recommend them to any of the above Presbytries, and that care be taken, that any so to be recommended, be piously disposed, and of sound Principles.

X. Recommendation to Presbytries and Synods anent Schools.
Edinburgh, January 31. 1699. ante meridiem. Sess. 11.

THE General Assembly considering, that there are many good Laws and Acts of Parliament, and Acts of General Assemblies, for erecting Schools in every parish, And wayes laid down for maintaining thereof, and being informed, That notwithstanding thereof, there are several Parishes, even in the Low-lands, that wants Schools; There­fore the General Assembly did, and hereby do, Recom­mend to the several Presbytries within this National Church to use their endeavours that Schools be erected in every parish within their respective bounds, conform to the Acts of Parliament, and General Assembly, and it's recommended to Synods to make particular enquiry how this Recommendation is observed.

XI. Overtures for Planting the North, with the Approbation thereof.
Edinburgh, February 3. 1699. ante meridiem. Sess. 16.

THE which Day, there was read in presence of the General Assembly, the Overtures underwritten, which were transmitted to the General Assembly by their [Page 17]Committee for Overtures, and upon the 31 of January last, read in open Assembly, and the consideration thereof re­mitted to the said Committee, and any persons that had any thing to offer thereanent, were desired to attend that Committee, and represent the same to them. The Te­nor of which Overtures follows.

1, That any of the Twenty Probationers, Appoint­ed by the last General Assembly, who have not obeyed, in going North, or not stayed in the North 12 moneths, but returned from it, without the allowance of the Pres­bytry of the bounds, where they were sent, shall upon the desire of that Presbytry, to the Presbytry where they now reside, be sent back to fulfil the 12 moneths.

2. That when any of these, who were born on the North side of Tay, are licenced by any Presbytry on the south side of Tay, he be sent North by that Presbytrie, within four moneths after his licencing, and it be re­mitted to the Commission to appoint the place, to which he should go, and the time of his stay, and that no Proba­tioners born in the North side of Tay, be settled in any Con­gregation as Minister by South Tay, until the next Gene­ral Assembly, unless they be of these who have been 12 moneths in the North, according to the appointment of the last General Assembly, but such, who during the 12 moneths of their mission, having received no call from any Congregation in the North, are deelared free to come South, and accept of an orderly Call from any Congregation in the south side of Tay; It's also allowed to the Town of Edinburgh, that if they call any North Countrey Probationer, he may be settled in that City, notwithstanding of this Overture.

3. And the General Assembly, hereby dischargeth any Presbytry on the south side of Tay, to settle any Pro­bationer born in the North side of Tay, within the fore­said time, except in the cases above excepted; with cer­tification, that the Presbytry shall be Censured by the Com­mission or General Assembly, and the Probationer so settled is hereby declared ipso facto transportable, and that the Commission of this Assembly appoint him immediatly to repair to the North, and any place thereof they think fit, as an extraordinary Supply, and if a Call be given to him, the Commission transport him to the North.

4. It's Overtur'd that other 20 Probationers be sent this year to the North also, and of these Twenty, as ma­ny as can be had, of such who were born on the North side of Tay, and that they be sent in the proportion follow­ing, viz. Three to the Presbytry of Perth, Auchterarder [Page 18]and Dunkeld, Six for the Province of Angus and Merns, be­cause there are most Vacancies there, Four to the Pro­vince of Aberdeen, Three to the Province of Murray, Two to Ross, Sutherland and Caithness, and Two to Orkney, and that there be a Committee of one or two out of each Synod to nominat these Twenty Probationers, or the same referred to the Commission.

5. Thar these Probationers, so nominated go how soon possible without delay, to the places to which they are sent, and to stay in the North for 12 Moneths, And it's hereby Referred to the Commission, to be appointed by this Assembly, to consider and determine of the Pro­vinces, they should go to, and of the time of their stay, and abode in each Province.

6. That for the encouragement of each Probationer, who shall be thus sent, and to help to defray the Charges of their Journey, The General Assembly, do allow out of the Kings Gift, for defraying the publick Expences of the Church, to these who go to Perth, Auchterarder and Dun­keld, 40. lib. each one, to these who go to Angus 50 lib. to these who go to Aberdeen 100 Merks, to these who go to Murray 80 lib. to these who go to Ross, Sutherland and Caithness 100 lib. to these who go to Orknay 200 Merks.

7. That these Probationers be obliged to accept of Calls, whether Popular or Presbyterial, when presen­ted to them by the Presbytries of any of the saids Pro­vinces, with Certification if they refuse the same, the Presbytries within whose bounds they are called, shall have power to take their Licence from them, un­till the next Assembly, yet that it be recommended to all Presbytries, not to make use of a Jus devolutum for the planting any Congregation till all other means be essayed.

8. That besides these Probationers, There be sent from the Synods of the South, some actual Ministers, for the Supply of the North: and seing diverse places of the North are better planted than formerly, the number of these Ministers to be sent for this year, for each four Moneths be Eleven, in manner after following, Five to Angus and Merns, Four to Aberdeen province, Two to Murray, out of the Synods following, viz. From the Synod of Merse and Teviotdale Two, to the Province of Angus; out of the Sy­nod of Lothian Three, Two to Aberdeen, and One to Murray; out of the Synod of Glasgow Four, Two to Angus and two to Aberdeen; out of the Synod of Fife Two, One to Murray, and One to Angus, and if the Commission find it needful to send one to Caithness, they be empowered to send one from the Synod of Lothian for the Moneths of April, May, and June, and one from the Synod of Glas­gow for July, August and September.

[Page 19]9. That when an orderly Call, is designed to any Mini­ster on the South-side of Tay, by any of the places privi­ledged by the 8th Act of the last General Assembly, yet Vacant, the proces of Transportation may be carried on, after the same manner prescribed in the said Act, and the Assembly renewes the Recommendation, mentioned in the said Act, to all Judicatories, who shall have occasion to judge, in any of these Transportations, and that they have a special respect to these places priviledged by the Assem­bly, when they represent any Call; seing Ministers are freed from the fear of Presbyterial Calls.

10. That in regard of the Vacancies of the Town of Aberdeen, and that place is so considerable, and of such in­fluence on the Northern parts, the General Assembly Re­commends to the Synods of Lothian and Glasgow, that at least one of their Supplies each quarter, for the Province of Aberdeen, be a Grave and Experienced Man, suted for the Supply of the Town of Aberdeen, and that when the Town of Aberdeen presents a Call to a Minister, before any Church Judicatory, they have a special and tender re­gard to the Planting of that place; and likewise the Ge­neral Assembly doth Recommend to, and appoint Mr. William Moncreif Minister at Largo, to go and Supply the Town of Aberdeen, for the Months of April and May, and this over and besides the ordinary Supply of that Synod.

11. That Mr. Hugh Machendry, and Mr. John Mac­culloch, be sent to Angus or Perth, and have the allow­ance for their Journey out of the Kings Gift.

12. That it be referred to the Commission, to send Mr. Robert Burnet to Angus, after May next.

13. That seing it is regrated by some who are sent, as Supplies that they have much toill in Traveling, betwixt the Vacant Parishes of the Presbytries of Strathbogie, and Presbytrie Seat of Murray, Therefore the Assembly Re­commends to the united Presbytries of Turref, Fordyce, and Alfoord, to take care of the Supplies of these Vacant Pari­shes, with the concurrence of Mr. William Chalmers Mi­nister at Gairtly, untill the next General Assembly, but that the Planting of these Vacant Parishes, be with the con­sent and concurrence of the Presbytrie of Murray; seing the Presbytrie of Strathbogie is within the bounds of the Province of Murray: And that it be recommended to the Commission, to send up one Probationer more if they have need, and if any difficulty arise in Planting Parishes, it be referred to the Commission.

14. That it be Recommended to Presbytries, to be careful that the allowance granted by the Act of Parlia­ment to them who Supply the North, be punctually payed, [Page 20]and that the Presbytrie be careful, to provide commodious places for Ministers and Probationers, where they may re­side, when sent to Supply any Parish; seing they are to stay there for some time, and to Catechise the People according to 16th, Act of the General Assembly January 12. 1697. Sess. 10. & ultima paragraph. 8.

15 That it be Recommended to the Synods of Drumfrees Merse and Glasgow, to Supply the Presbytries of Wigtown and Stranrawer with Ministers and Probationers, and that they be careful to send such, as for Prudence and Piety, may be judged fittest for that Countrey, and that it be Re­commended in particular to Mr. John Good Minister of the Gospel, to go to Galloway, in case that he be not shortly settled in a Parish else where.

And the General Assembly having duely and maturely considered the saids Overtures, They by their Vote un­animously did, and hereby do approve of the same, and Recommends, Refers, and appoints according thereto, in all points.

XII. Approbation of the Actings and Proceedings of the Commission, appointed by the General Assembly 1698.
Edinburgh 3. February 1699. Post meridem Sess. 17.

THE General Assembly having this day, had Repro­duced in their presence, the Register of the Actings and Proceedings, of the Commissioners appointed by the last Assembly, and having heard the Report of a Com­mittee of this Assemblies own number, that were not mem­bers of the said Commission, but appointed to Revise, Examine, and consider the said Register, with their Ob­serves thereupon, all the members of the said Commission were removed, and Mr. James Hutcheson was chosen Moderator, and Mr. David Ewing Clerk Pro tempore, (the Moderator and Clerk of this Assembly being members of the said Commission, and thereforeremoved) and the Ge­neral Assembly, having seriously considered the said Re­port, and Answers made by the Moderator and other mem­bers of the Commission to the saids Observes, and finding thereby that the whole Actings, Proceedings, and Con­clusions of the saids Commissioners, contained in the Re­gister [Page 21]Subscribed by Mr. John Moncreif Clerk thereto, begining at page 169. and ending at page 354. do evidence much Wis­dom, Prudence and Diligence, and that the said Commission have proceeded orderly, and formally in every thing, accord­ing to their Commission and Instructions, and that the said Re­gister is very Accurate; Therefore this General Assembly by an unanimous Vote, did, and hereby do, Ratifie and approve the saids whole Actings, Proceedings, and Conclusions of the saids Commissioners contained in the said Register thereof, begining January 15th, 1698. and ending 18. January 1699. Inclusive of both dayes; and the Members of the Commission being called in, the same was intimate to them, and the Moderator gave them the thanks of this Assembly, for their good service, and then the Moderator and Clerk of this Assembly took their place.

XIII. Act anent Subscribing the Confession of Faith,
Eadem Sessione,

THE General Assembly Recommends, to all Synods and Presbytries, to enquire what Ministers or Probationers or School-Masters, within their Respective bounds, have not Subscribed the Confession of Faith, conform to former Acts of the General Assembly, as the Confession of their Faith, That these who have not done it, may be put thereto, and thinks it necessary that there be a new impression of the Confession of Faith in Folio for that end.

XIV. Commission by the General Assembly to some Ministers and Elders, for Planting of Vacant Kirks in the North, and other Affairs Referred to them.
At Edinburgh 4. February 1699. ante meridiem Sess. 18. & ultima.

THE General Assembly of this National Church, consider­ing that there are yet many Vacant Churches on the North side of Tay; as likewise that there are several weighty affairs, [Page 22]which the said Assembly cannot overtake, Therefore the Ge­neral Assembly finds it needful, that there be a Commission granted to some Ministers and Elders, for planting these Vacant Kirks, and doing what other affairs shall be referred to them, and for that end, do hereby Nominat and Appoint Mr. Andrew Roger Minister at Galstoun, Mr. Henry Osburn at Tarbolton, Mr. Patrick Liston at Air, Mr. John Galsgow at Kilbirnie, Mr. George Chalmers at Kilwining, Mr. Alexander King at Bonill, Mr. David Fleckfeild at Balfrone, Mr. Patrick Simpson at Ren­frew, Mr. James Hutcheson at Killalan, Mr. John Stirling at Greenock, Mr. William Dunlop Principal of the Colledge of Glasgow. Mr. Alexander Heastie at Glasgow, Mr. David Ewing at Calder, Mr. Robert Wylie at Hamilton, Mr. John Murehead at Camnetham, Mr. John Bannatyne at Lanerk, Mr. Thomas Lin­ing at Lesmehago, Mr. Daniel Campbel at Glassary, Mr. Walter Campbel at Denoon, Mr. Thomas Black at Perth, Mr. David Shaw at Aberdalgie, Mr. William Spence at Fossoway, Mr. John Forrester at Stirling, Mr. Hugh White at Larbert, Mr. Alexander Douglas at Logie, Mr. Michael Potter at Dumblain, Mr. John Anderson Principal of the Leonardine Colledge of St. Andrews, Mr. William Moncreif at Largo, Mr. Alexander Sheilds at St. Andrews, Mr. Edward Jameson at Monymail, Mr. Alexander Glass at Auchter­mouchty, Mr. James Hadow at Couper, Mr. Archbald Riddel at Kircaldie, Mr. William Mackie at Markincb, Mr. John Shaw at Lesly, Mr. John Wylie at Saline, Mr. Samuel Charters at Inner­keithing, Mr. Allan Logan at Torrieburn, Mr. William Mitchel at Dundee, Mr. John Ramsay at Cortochie, Mr. Francis Melvil at Arbuthnet, Mr. William Arrot at Montrose. Mr. James Os­burn at Aberdeen, Mr. Thomas Thomson at Turrif, Mr. Patrick Innes at Bamf, Mr. James Brown at Aberdour, Mr. William Johnston at Auchterless, Mr. Alexander Forbes at Dyck Mr. James Thomson at Elgin, Mr. Hugh Duff at Fern in Rosse, Mr. William Innes at Thurso in Caithnes, Mr. Thomas Baikie at Kirk­wal in Orknay, Mr. Hugh Leigh at Bressay in Zetland, Mr. Gil­bert Rule Principal of the Colledge of Edinburgh, Mr. William Crichton at Edinburgh, Mr. John Law there, Mr. George Meldrum, there, Mr. George Hamilton there, Mr. David Blair there, Mr. John Hamilton there, Mr. John Moncreif there, Mr. Da­vid Williamson at West-Kirk, Mr. Andrew Bowie at North-Leith, Mr. Thomas Wilkie in Canogate, Mr. John Forrest at Preston-Kirk, Mr. Robert Stark at Stenton, Mr. Andrew Brown at Spott, Mr. James Clerk at Dirletoun, Mr. Mungo Watson at Gladsmuir, Mr. Mathew Reid at Northberwick, Mr. William Trail at Borthwick, Mr. Patrick Cuming at Ormiston, Mr. Mathew Selkrig at Crich­toun, Mr. David Walker at Temple, Mr. William Macjore at Pennycook, Mr. George Barclay at Ʋphal, Mr. William Burnet at Falkirk, Mr. Thomas Miller at Kirklistoun, Mr. John Brand at Borrowstounnes, Mr. William Russel at Stobo, Mr. Robert Li­vingstoun [Page 23]at Bigger, Mr. John Sandilands at Dolphingtoun, Mr. Mr. Gabriel Semple at Jedburgh, Mr. Samuel Johnstoun at South­dean, Mr. Robert Wilson at Melross, Mr. John Gelen at Stitchell, Mr. John Dysert at Coldinghame, Mr. John Linlithgow at Swintoun, Mr. Alexander Colden at Duns, Mr. John Vetch at Westruther, Mr. George Johnstoun at Ersletoun, Mr. William Vetch at Drum­frees, Mr. Robert Paton there, Mr. James Elder at Keir, Mr. Tho­mas Gowdie at Kirkpatrick juxta, Mr. James Armstrang at Canabee, Mr. James Monteith at Borg, Mr. Robert Rowand at Pennyghame, Mr. William Boid at Dalry, Mr. Andrew Ewart at Kells, Ministers. George Earl of Melvil Lord President of the Privy Council; George Earl of Sutherland, William Lord Forbes, Robert Lord Burleigh, William Lord Ross, John Lord Belhaven, James Master of Carmichael, Sir Hugh Dalrymple of Northberwick Lord Presi­dent of the Session, Sir James Stewart of Goodtrees His Majesties Advocat, Adam Cockburn of Ormistoun Lord Justice-Clerk, Sir Alexander Swinton of Mersingtoun, Sir Collin Campbel of Abe­ruchel, Sir John Hamiltoun of Halcraig, Sir David Home of Cros­rig four of the Senators of the Colledge of Justice, Mr. John Campbel Brother to the Earl of Argyl, Mr. Francis Montgomery of Giffan, Lodovick Grant of that Ilk, William Baillie of Laming­toun, James Brodie of that Ilk, George Home of Kello Provost of Edinburgh, Sir John Riddel of that Ilk, Sir William Cuninghame of Cuninghamhead, Sir Collin Campbel of Ardkinlass Sir John Pringle of Stitchel, Sir John Clerk of Pennycook, Sir Wil­liam Denholme of Westsheilds, Sir Archibald Mure of Thorntoun, Sir Thomas Burnet His Majesties Phisician, Sir William Baird of Newbaith, Lievtenent Collonel John Erskin of Carridden, Captain John Erskin, Adam Drummond of Meggins, John Alexander of Blackhouse, George Moncrief of Reedy, Mr. James Daes of Col­ding knows Advocat, Henry Rollo of Woodside Governour of the Castle of Blackness, Walter Stewart of Pardivan, James Hamil­ton of Pencaitland, Robert Martine of Burnbrae, John Anderson of Dowhill, and Mr. Archbald Dickson of Tourlands Ruling Elders. To be Commissioners of the General Assembly, to the effect aftermentioned: with full power and Commission to the saids persons, or their Quorum, which is hereby declared to be, any Fifteen of the saids Commissioners, whereof nine are alwayes to be Ministers, to meet and Conveen within the Assembly-house at Edinburgh, the first Munday after the dissolution of this Assem­bly, at Two of the Clock in the Afternoon, and afterwards to meet the first Tuesday of March, June, September and December and oftner, where or when they shall see needful, during the continuance of this Commission: And the General Assembly requires, all the Members of this Commission, to attend pun­ctually, the Meetings thereof: with power to the said Com­mission to chuse their own Moderator and Clerk: and sicklike the General Assembly, fully impowers and Authorizes the saids [Page 24]Commissioners, or their Quorum, to consider, cognosce, and finally determine as they shall see cause, in every thing contain­ed in, and conform to, the Instructions given them by this As­sembly, as fully and freely as if the same were in these presents, at full length insert and set down; As also, to consider and cognosce and finally determine, in all References, Appeals, and other Matters, particularly remitted to them, by any Act or or­der of this Assembly, all which are holden as herein exprest; And the General Assembly, do hereby prohibit and discharge the saids Commissioners to meddle in any other matters than what is contained herein: Declaring also that in and for their Actings, they shall be countable to, and censureable, by the next ensuing General Assembly of this Church: And lastly Declares, that this Commission shall continue, until the Meeting of the next General Assembly.

XV. Instructions to the Commission appointed by the General Assembly for planting the Vacant Churches in the North, &c.
Eadem Sessione.

1. THAT this Commission do what in them lyes to ren­der effectual the Overtures past the last Assembly, for the more speedy planting of the North, and exerce all the Power that is committed to them for that effect, except in fo far as they are, or shall be altered by this Assembly; And that they cognosce and finally determine in all References made to them, by this Assembly, and in all Appeals for Transporting Ministers to the North, which shall be orderly brought in to them, according to the above, or any other Overtures past in this Assembly.

2. That this Commission, as often as they see cause, apply to the Government, or any Magistrate for their countenance­ing of, and concurrence with the Judicatories of the Church, in what the Law allows, particularly for settling Vacant Churches, Redressing any Grievances, which may fall out, and that they correspond with the State, anent Fasts and Thansgivings, as occasion requires, and to specify the Causes thereof.

3. That when any Ministers, who served under the late Prelacy, whose Lives and Doctrines, may render them useful to this Church, do apply for reception to the Government, the Assembly do impower and recommend to this Commission, [Page 25]and the other Judicatories of this Church competent, that they may be ready to receive them, according to former Acts of the Assembly.

4. That this Commission may dispose of His Majesties Gifts to this Church, and in the disposal thereof, that they do particularly take care, that the encouragement granted by this Assembly, to the Probationers who are to go to the North to Preach, be rendered effectual, and that they cause defray the extraordinary Charges, that several Ministers of the North, have been at, in carrying on the planting of the North, and other publick Affairs of the Church there, and for the de­fraying the Charges, of such Ministers, or Probationers, as shall yet be sent to Orknay, or other remote parts of the North.

5. That this Commission, on the desire of Presbytries, or Synods, or as they shall see cause, may appoint Committees upon occasion, for visitation of particular Kirks, and Presby­tries, or tryal of persons, and do all things proper for any Vi­sitation. who are to Act in conjunction with the Presbytry of the bounds, and that they proceed to Censure as they see cause.

6. The Commission is to give advice and assistance, to any Synod or Presbytry, applying to them in difficult cases.

7. That this Commission enquire, who are defective in sending Supplies to the North, and see them fulfil their Mission, and that they endeavour, that the Supplies appointed by this As­sembly, be made effectual, under the Certifications contained in Acts of prior Assemblies thereanent, and for this effect, that each Synod and Presbytry, send in quarterly to the Commis­sion, an account of the names of the persons, they appoint for Supplies, and the places to which they are sent, and that ano­ther double thereof be each 4 Moneths sent to the Presbytry or Province to which they send.

8. That this Commission shall have power, to add to, or alter the Instructions given to the Presbytries of Orknay and Zetland, as they shall see cause, particularly with reference to Tran­sportation of Ministers, because of the sad circumstances that some Ministers there are in, that they be ready to give advice and assistance to these Presbytries, as they are required, because they have not Synods in these bounds.

XVI. Overtures for Promoving the Knowledge of God in the Highlands, and for Rendering the Act made Sess. 10. of this Assembly, the more effectual
Eadem Sessione.

1 THAT each Presbytry, give up yearly to the General Assembly, a distinct account, of Probationers and Stu­dents of Divinity within their bounds, who have the Irish Language.

2. That enquiry be made, what Ministers are settled in the Lowlands, who have the Irish Language, that they may be sent on Supply to Vacant and Highland places, and if they get orderly Calls, they be Transported to the Highlands.

3. That seing a great number of Bibles, have been on the Charges of diverse Charitable persons in England, & some in Scot­land Translated and Printed in the Irish Language, and sent down to this Kingdom, to be dispersed, chiefly for the use of the poor, and many of them, are not yet distributed, and diverse Parishes in the Highland parts, have gotten none of them, it be recom­mended to Mr. David Blair Mr. William Crichton, Mr. John Law, Mr. Gilbert Rule, Mr. George Meldrum, Mr. John Moncreif, Mr. George Hamilton Moderator, and to the Earls of Sutherland and Tillibardine the Lord Aberuchle, and Laird of Grant, to enquire how many of these Bibles, whether Printed in the Ro­man or Irish Character are already distributed, and how and to whom, and how many does yet remain, and to make distri­bution of them, to different parts of the Church, in such propor­tion, as may be most for Edification, and that they be deliver­ed and distributed by the order of any three of this Committee, on sufficient Receipt by the Receiver, and that Presbytries and Ministers of each parish, be careful of the due distribution of what is received, and an account thereof sent to the next Ge­neral Assembly.

4. That it be Recommended to all, but especially to Pres­bytries who have Highland parishes, to consider what may be done for getting a Fond for a new Impression of the Bible in the Irish Language, and of the Psalms in meeter, and of the Shorter Catechisme.

5. That seing it is Informed, there was 1000 lib. Scots, given by the Lords of His Majesties Theasury, for Binding of these Bibles, and other Charges anent them, it be Recommend­ed [Page 27]to the foresaid Committee, or to the Commission, to enquire to whom that money was given, and on what Terms, and how imployed, and if there be any of it yet remaning, after the Defraying of the Charges foresaid, that it be allotted for the help of a Fond for a new Impression.

6. That it be Recommended to the Synod of Argyle, to Translate the Confession of Faith of this Church, and the Larger Catechisme in the Irish Language, the Lesser Catechisme and Psalms being Translated already in that Language, and that they exactly notice any Typographical Errors, which may be found in the late Impression of the Bible, in the Highland Language, that they may be amended in a new Impression.

7. That it be Recommended to the Synod of Argyle, that as they have done worthily hitherto, in Visiting the Country and Islands within their bounds, so they would continue, and abound more and more, and be ready to assist their Neigh­bours, as they are called and have opportunity.

8. That there be a Committee, for Visiting the Highland Parishes of Dumbarton, Strivling, and Perth, Shyres, of the per­sons following viz. Mr. John Anderson Minister at Drymmen, Mr. Robert Anderson at Perth, Mr. John Campbel at Monivaird, Mr. David Shaw at Aberdalgy, Mr. Alexander Dowglas of Logy, Mr. Alexander Dining at Abernethy, Ministers, the Earl of Tillibardine, Viscount of Dipline, Lord Ruthven, Sir Colin Campbel of Aberuchle, one of the Senators of the Colledge of Justice, the Laird of Meggins and Lauchlan Mackintosh Elders.

9. And that the Synod of Aberdeen, at their meeting in A­pril next, do appoint some of the Ministers and Elders in their bounds to be a Committee, to Visite the few Highland Pari­shes in their Province.

10. And that Mr. David Cuming Minister at Edinkilly, Mr. Alexander Forbes at Dyck, and Mr. Donald Mackintosh at Duthel, Ministers: together with the Lairds of Grant, Brody and Collodine Elders, with any other that the Presbytry of Murray may appoint of their own Number, to be a Committee to Visite the Highland Parishes within the Province and Synod of Murray.

11. And that Mr. William Innes Minister at Thurso, Mr. Walter Denoon at Golpsie, Mr. John Monro at Rhe, Mr. John Macpherson at Farr, Mr. William Stewart at Kiltearn, and Mr. Hugh Duff at Ferne, with the Lairds of Foulis and Dal­pholey and William Ross of Aldie, be a Committee, to Visite the Highland Parishes of Ross, Sutherland and Caithness.

12. And that these Committees Visite the Kirks, Manses, Gleibs, and if need be perambulat, the Parishes, and consider how they may be more commodiously divided, or annexed, or where there is need of new Erections, and how the same may be most conveniently accomplished.

[Page 28]13. And that they visit the Schools, within the saids Bounds, and endeavour to get Schools Erected, according to the Act of Parliament, where they are not, and apply to these, who have the care and charge of disposing of the Kings Gift, out of the Bishoprick of Dunkeld, or any other Gift His Majesty, may grant to other places, for that end, that where it is needful they may have more Schools in one parish where it's large and spaci­ous, than these provided by Act of Parliament.

14. And that they do all and every thing proper for a Com­mittee for visitation to do, and to Report their Diligence to the next General Assembly, and from time to time to the Commis­sion appointed by this Assembly, who are hereby impowered to give them advice on all occasions, and to draw the several Commissions to the respective Committees to the effect above­specified, and appoint the time and place of their first meeting respective, with power to the Commission to add such of their number as they shall think fit, with power also to the above mentioned Committees, to chuse their own Moderators and Clerks and to appoint the diets and places of their after-meet­ings.

15. That the King be addressed for the effect of his Royal Munificence, in favours of the more Northern Highland places, as he hath done to the Synods of Argyle and Perth, and the con­currence of the Nobility and Gentry concerned, be desired for this end.

The General Assembly having several times heard and con­sidered the abovewritten Overtures, They by their vote un­animously did, and hereby do approve thereof; And Appoints, Refers, and Recommends according thereto, in all points.

XVII.

THE next General Assembly of this National Church is to be held at Edinburgh, upon the first Friday of February, One Thousand Seven Hundred Years.

The Assembly being closed, the Members were dismissed with Pray­er, singing the 133 Psalm, and pronouncing of the Blessing.