Note 101 — Chapter IV
Reading edition
State Papers, Dom. Charles II., 1682, June 2, 16, 20. On the 9th of December, the following queries were submitted to Secretary Jenkins:—
“Whether, at a time when the Dissenters in shoals transport themselves beyond sea, to the apparent throwing up of many farms throughout England, and a dearth of servants, it may not be thought reasonable to prohibit such a transportation occasioned by a sullen humour?
“2. Whether, at this time, when the Dissenters calumniate the Government with a connivance at debaucheries, while themselves are vigorously prosecuted about matters of religion, it may not be thought reasonable to revive His Majesty’s proclamation against profane cursing and swearing and other debaucheries?
“3. Whether the prosecution against Dissenters ought not to be prosecuted to excommunication, for not coming to church and receiving the Sacrament, in Corporations especially,—thereby to incapacitate them from being elected, or electors of, members of Parliament?”