Page:History of the Nonjurors.djvu/120

102 well had very strong feelings on this point; and Sancroft and the Bishops entertained the same. Of Kettlewell it is said, he "could not by any motives be persuaded to cease praying for those persons, whom at the commencement of the Revolution he had prayed for; and whom he firmly believed to have the same right to his prayers now as then." All the Nonjurors recognized James as their lawful Sovereign: and consequently they prayed for him in their assemblies. They did not however mention his name; but prayed for the King, the Queen, and the Prince. At all events, this was the general practice, though probably some might even introduce the King's name.

Though my sympathies are with the deprived Bishops on many points, yet I cannot refrain from expressing my opinion in this place, that they were not justified in attempting to perpetuate the schism by continuing the succession. They might have remained quiescent, having delivered their own consciences by not taking the Oath. Every one must revere them for their scruples, and for their adherence to principles, which enabled them to endure suffering and privation; but I cannot think, that they were