Assembly Proceedings, Sept. 16-Oct. 2, 1696. 447

27 Relating to Parishes thought to be Large enough in
regard Liberty is Given to one Minister to hold Plurarity of
Benefices
28 Thought that the Law is already sufficient
29 The Law hath Already Reposed that Trust in the
Vestry to make such Church Improvements as the Ability of
the Parish is able to comply with
W Bladen Clk Assembly

September the 25^th 1696

The foregoing Resolves were deliberately read over and
Assented to by his Majestys honble Council except such as
are hereafter remarked viz^t
As to the first it is Observed thereon that several Com-
plaints have been made both from Dorchester Somersett and
the Piscattoway Indians whereof several members of the
House are Conscious therefore the Proposall is urged again
his Excellency being pleased to signify that if any commotions
or bloodshed for the future happen for want thereof his Excel-
lency washes his hands clear of the same

U. H. J.

3 Proposall it is Observed to the House that the Lord
Bishop of London has sent over a School Master and there-
fore thought necessary that the School building go forward
which cannot be done without the Tobacco be collected or
part thereof & therefore proposed that one half if not the
whole be collected this year
6 Proposall the Address proposed is thought very proper
and necessary to be drawn and therefore again proposed that
the same be done being a matter new and as little as can be
done by the Country for to return his Majesty thanks for such
a Gift
7 Proposall the request of the House therein as to sending
for Arms drums Trumpets and Colours &c for every County
it is not intended that the publick Arms shall be meddled with
unless in Case of Insurrection or Invasion which God forbid
for that the Militia are bound to fit themselves with Arms &c
pursuant to the Law and the fines and forfeitures are Given
towards purchasing of Drums Trumpets and Colours and his
Excellency does not intend that any of the last mentioned
publick things shall be Lodged any were save one of a sort
with the Colonel of each County
14 Proposall it is Observed that sundry Complaints have
been made already especially from Kent County therefore
urged Again.
22 Proposall it is Queried whether the Justices have such
Power of appointing a Clerk or Clerks of Indictments and

p. 910