AND THE SCOTTISH CHURCH. BY THE REV. HENRY CASWALL, M.A., VICAR OF FIGHELDEAN, WILTS, AUTHOR OF "AMERICA AND THE AMERICAN CHURCH," &c., &c., OF SALISBURY. OXFORD, JOHN HENRY PARKER; AND 377, STRAND, LONDON. MDCCC LIII. PREFACE. MANY causes have recently combined to direct attention to those branches of the Anglican body which are unconnected with the State. More than half of the Bishops of our communion are now found in the "unestablished" ranks, while the deepest principles of ecclesiastical truth are involved in the existence and operation of the Scottish, American, and Colonial Churches. To those in England who have formed a habit of viewing ecclesiastical affairs mainly in connexion with political institutions, it is obviously important to shew that conscience is the only safe and enduring basis upon which an attachment to the Church can be founded. The Scottish Episcopal Church affords many valuable lessons and encouragements. Its very existence is a source of confidence and consolation. In the face of long-continued opposition it has maintained its ground to the present day, amidst bitter poverty and galling reproach. Thus it has shewn that the continuance of religious institutions is not |