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476 the assertions of certain persons in the present day, who have scarcely examined the subject, or, if they do examine it, are incompetent, from the strong influence of prejudice, to form a correct opinion.

But though, after the accession of George III. their condition was improved, no legislative interference was yet brought to bear upon their case. The laws still remained in force. But in 1784 the Episcopal Clergy in America applied to the Scottish Prelates to consecrate one of their number a Bishop. Dr. Seabury, the Clergyman selected by the American Church, had applied to the Anglican Bishops; but, in consequence of a difficulty respecting the Oaths, he was advised to seek consecration in Scotland. The Scottish Bishops, anxious to proceed in such a manner as not to offend the Government, consulted Archbishop Moore, who assured them, that the act would really be appreciated in England. Accordingly the consecration took place: and the Scottish Bishops were the instruments of preserving Episcopacy in the United States.

Four years later, in 1788, Charles Edward Stuart,