Page:History of the Nonjurors.djvu/373

Rh This document was signed by the four Bishops as before: then the following minute occurs, dated March 8th, 1724-5:

"Mr. Cassano is desired to write that we were ready till the melancholy news arrived of the Emperor's death, which has put a stop to the affairs till we receive fresh directions from court."

They also wrote to the Synod on the same subject.

"We are sensibly affected with the melancholy account of the great Emperor of Russia's death, and heartily condole with your Lordships upon this unhappy occasion, though we hope the loss may be made up by the accession of her Imperial Majesty to his throne. This misfortune has put a stop to the affair between us till we receive fresh directions, and know your Lordships' pleasure. For which purpose we have desired our worthy friend Mr. Cassano to wait upon your Lordships, upon whose fidelity and care we entirely rely. We commend your Lordships to the Divine protection, and remain, &c. April 11th, 1725."

This letter was subscribed by the four Bishops, like the preceding, and in the same form. A letter of similar import was also addressed by the same parties to the Chancellor: and another to Arsenius as follows:

Tis with great concern that we received the news of the Emperor of Russia's death, which has put a stop to our affair till we have fresh directions from that court. We have now by our friend Mr. Cassano sent a letter to the Holy Synod and another