ssembly declareth they had power to doe the same, and
ratifieth that what hath been done of late of that kinde upon warrantable
grounds, that here after it be not called in question.

_The Assembly alloweth this article._

VIII. Anent the _competencie of Presbyteries and parochins_, that some
proportion may be keeped, both anent the number and distance of place: It
would seem expedient that this generall Assembly should appoint a
Commission for every Shyre, where there is such necessitie, that the
particular Parochins and Presbyteries within the bounds be duely
considered, and overtures be these of the same commission given in to the
provinciall Synods, and by them to the generall Assembly, that there they
may be advised, and ratified.

_The Assembly referreth this to the care of the particular presbyteries._

IX. Anent the _entrie and conversation of Ministers_: It is expedient that
the act of Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_, _March 24. 1595._ Sess. 7. be
ratified, and put in execution in every Presbyterie, and to that end, that
they get a coppie thereof, under the Clerks hand whereof the tennour
followeth.

Act Sess. 7. March 26. of the Assembly at _Edinburgh_ 1596.

"_Concerning the_ defections in the ministerie, _the same being at length
read out, reasoned, and considered; The brethren concluded the same,
agreeing there-with: and in respect that by Gods grace, they intend
reformation, and to see the Kirk and ministery purged; to the effect the
worke may have better successe, they think it necessar that this Assembly
be humbled, for wanting such care as became in such points, as is set
down; and __ some zealous and godly brethren in doctrine, lay them out for
their better humiliation; and that they make solemne promise before the
Majestie of God; and make new covenant with him for a more carefull and
reverent discharge of their ministerie. To the which effect was chosen_
Mr. John Davidson; _and Twesday next at nine houres in the morning
appointed, in the new Kirk, for that effect: whereunto none is to resort,
but the ministrie: the forme to bee advised the morne in privie
conference._"

The tennour of the advise of the brethren; depute for penning the
enormities and corruptions in the ministerie, and remead thereof, allowed
by the generall Assembly here conveened. 1596.

_Corruptions in the office._

"_For as much as by the too sudden admission and light tryall of
persons to the ministrie, cometh t