QUAKERS AND MORAVIANS. 1009

Now We thy Petitioners have been Informed by Council Learned in the Law, that every one of us that was so denied our vote may have his action upon the Case against the Sheriff, for his So violent attempt on our Liberties and priviledges, but we not being inclined *to use such rigorous means, Chose rather to apply to thee for redress, who art the Kings Representative, hoping thou Wilt not Countenance such arbitrary proceedings, but be pleased to grant our request to discharge the said Nicholas Cooper from his office of High Sheriff and thereby discourage Such proceedings for the future, that we with all other our friends may from henceforward Enjoy all our Lawfull liberties and priviledges Quietly and peaceably and Not be deprived thereof by any partiall Magistrates or officers, Nor by any forced or Strained construction of Law contrary to the so long & constant practice of the Governours and Magistrates of this Province, and manifest intent of the Lawmakers But besides the above recited Law of this Province there is an Act of Parliament made in the Eighth year of the late King George the first, that allows us the form of Affirmation therein prescribed, which we conceive Extends to all the people called Quakers in the Kings dominions, and has since the making thereof been frequently made use of in this Province and though Some People have been of opinion that it does not extend to us, yet it is Manifest that it was the intent of the Lawmakers that it should for our late Governour Montgomerie told Boctr John Rodman & Edward Burling that he was a Parliament man at the time when that act was made, and helpt promote it and that it was intended for all the people called Quakers in the Kings dominions and that all Should have the benefit of it &c and further Said that if any Magistrates or officer denied it to any of our friends let him but know it and he would punish him for it We are thy friends and Well wishers