dens, nor to forwardnesse in the publike Cause; whereby Malignants are
multiplied: yea some are so grosse herein, that even in publike Fasts
little or nothing is to be heard from them sounding this way.

5. Some account it a point of wisdome to speak ambiguously: some incline
to justifie the wicked cause, uttering words which favour of disaffection:
and all their complaining of the times, is in such a way as may steal the
hearts of people from liking of good Instruments in this work, and
consequently from Gods Cause: yea, some reading publike Orders, are ready
to speak against them in their private conferences.

6. Idlenesse, either in seldome Preaching, as once on The Lords day, or in
preparation for publike duties, not being given to reading and meditation:
others have but fits of paines, not like other Tradesmen continually at
their work.

7. Want of zeal, and love to the conversion of souls, not being weighted
with the want of successe in reclaiming of sinners, nor searching in
themselves the cause of not profiting, preaching _ex officio_; nor _ex
conscientia officii_.

8. Self-seeking in preaching, and a venting rather of their wit and skill,
then a Shewing foorth of the wisdome and power of God.

9. Lifelesnesse in preaching, not studying to be furnished by Christ with
power; and so the ordinance of God teacheth not to the conscience: and
thereto belongeth the not applying of the doctrine unto the auditory and
times.

10. The indiscreet curing of the indiscretion of pious people and
Ministers, whereby godlinesse hath gotten a deep wound, and profanitie
hath lifted up the head, contrary to that wise and gracious order set
foorth in the Generall Assembly holden at _Edinburgh_, 1641.

11. Little care to furnish our Armie, either abroad or at home with
Ministers; One of our grievous sins and causes of our calamity.

12. Last, it is to be feared that Ministers in secret are negligent to
wrestle in Prayer, for a blessing to be poured out upon their labours,
contenting themselves with their publike performances.

_Remedies._

1. First, That Presbyteries make great conscience to have all vacant
places within their several bounds filled with godly and able men, where
ever they be to be found: and that under pretence of being a helper, or
second to another, none be taken in, but such as are able for the same
charge.

2. Whereas it is known, that private tryall in Presbyteries are for the
most part perfunctoriou