at the same time, to draw forth sentiments of admiration towards
the clear and strong mind by which they were framed.

But the incessant toils in which Gillespie's life had been spent had
shattered his constitution beyond the power of recovery; and the state in
which he found Scotland on his return was such as to permit no relaxation
of these toils. The danger in which the obstinacy and duplicity of Charles
I. had placed that unhappy monarch's life, drew forth towards him the
strong compassion of all who cherished sentiments of loyalty to the
sovereign and pity for the man. But in many instances these generous
feelings were allowed to bias the dictates of religious principle and
sound judgment; and a party began to be formed for the purpose of
attempting to save the King even at the hazard of entering into a war with
England. This was, of course, eagerly encouraged by all who had previously
adhered to the King's party in the contest between him and the
Covenanters; and a series of intrigues began and were carried on, breaking
the harmony which had previously existed, and preparing for the disastrous
consequences which soon afterwards ensued. Gillespie exerted himself to
the utmost of his power to avert the coming calamities which he
anticipated, by striving to prevent the commission of crimes which provoke
judgment. His influence was sufficient to restrain the Church from
consenting to countenance the weak and wicked movements of politicians.
But his health continued to sink under these incessant toils and
anxieties. He was chosen moderator of the General Assembly of 1648,
though, as Baillie states, "he did much deprecate the burden, as he had
great reason, both for his health's sake, and other great causes."

This Assembly met on the 12th of July, 1648, and so arduous and difficult
were the duties which it had to discharge, that it did not end its labours
till the 12th of August. Although Gillespie was then rapidly sinking under
the disease of which he died, which, from its symptoms, must have been
consumption, he continued to take an active part in all its deliberations,
and drew up the last public paper which it directed to be framed, in
answer to a document, issued by the State, respecting the engagement that
had been formed for the support of the King. The arduous labours of the
Assembly being thus ended, Gillespie left Edinburgh and retired to
Kirkcaldy, with the view of seeking, by change of scene and air, some
r