ce and treachery of our enemies, did occasion the first
expedition of this Nation into _England_, (upon which followed the calling
of the Parliament there, and the large Treaty) and in the issue, the
return of that Army was with an Olive branch of Peace, and not without the
beginnings of a Reformation in _England_: In which work while the
Parliament was interrupted and opposed, and a bloody War begun with great
successe on that side which opposed the Parliament and the begun
Reformation, from whence also did accrew great advantage to the Popish
Party (whereof the Cessation of Arms concluded in _Ireland_ may be in
stead of many testimonies;) Commissioners were sent hither from both
Houses, earnestly inviting and perswading to a nearer Union of the
Kingdomes, and desiring Assistance from this Nation to their Brethren in
that their great distresse; And this by the good Hand of God produced the
solemne League and Covenant of the three Kingdomes, to the terrour of the
Popish and Prelatical party our common Enemies, and to the great comfort
of such as were wishing and waiting for the Reformation of Religion; and
the recovery of just Liberties. And although for the conjunction of the
Kingdomes in Covenant, and Armes (being a speciall means tending to the
extirpation of Popery) and strengthening the true Reformed Religion; this
Kingdome hath been invaded and infested by the bloody _Irish_ Rebels aided
and strengthened by some degenerate and perfidious Countrey-men of our
owne: Although also in _England_ there were not wanting incendiaries, who
hating and envying nothing more then the Union of the Kingdomes in such a
Covenant, were very vigilant to catch, and active to improve all occasions
of making divisive motions, and creating Nationall Differences; Yet God
hath been graciously pleased to break our Enemies strength at Home when it
was greatest, and to guide us through these Jealousies and Differences
fomented by disaffected Persons between the Kingdomes; So that in stead of
a splitting upon these Rocks (the thing hoped for by our Enemies) there
was a peaceable and friendly parting: Since which time God hath further
blessed our Army at Home, to the expelling of the Enemie out of our own
Borders. Nor can we passe in silence the happy progresse which hath been
made in the Reformation of the Church of _England_; He that hath brought
the Children to the birth, can also give strength to come forth; And hee
whose hand did cast out Pre