And that the Gov. and
Counsel do take care that all nonconformists upon notice of them shall be
compelled to depart the collony with all conveniencie. And so in
consequence out of Virginia, to New England where Independents were
welcome, or to Maryland where any Christian might dwell, went these tainted
ministers. But there stayed behind Puritan and nonconforming minds in the
bodies of many parishioners. They must hold their tongues, indeed, and
outwardly conform -- but they watched lynx-eyed for their opportunity and a
more favorable fortune.
Having launched thunderbolts against schismatics of this sort, Berkeley,
himself active and powerful, with the Council almost wholly of his party
and the House of Burgesses dominantly so, turned his attention to "popish
recusants." Of these there were few or none dwelling in Virginia. Let them
then not attempt to come from Maryland! The rulers of the colony legislated
with vigor: papists may not hold any public place; all statutes against
them shall be duly executed; popish priests by chance or intent arriving
within the bounds of Virginia shall be given five days' warning, and, if at
the end of this time they are yet upon Virginian soil, action shall be
brought against them. Berkeley sweeps with an impatient broom.
The Kingdom is cared for not less than the Church in Virginia. Any and all
persons coming into the colony by land and by sea shall have administered
to them the Oath of Supremacy and Allegiance.
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