Among other Persons of Distinction that went over to settle in Virginia, was the noble Cæcilius Calvert Lord Baltimore, a Roman Catholick, who with his Family, Friends and Attendants, was willing to retire thither for the free Exercise of his Religion.
He obtained a Patent for all that vast Part of Virginia, which lies to the Northward of the great River Potowmack; which was confirmed to his Son and his Heirs in the Year 1633.
This Province was named Maryland from the Royal Consort of King Charles I. and remains still the Propriety of the present Lord Baltimore and his Heirs, with the Restriction of their being Protestants; and is perhaps the largest Estate in the World belonging to any one Person, that is not a Prince.
Though the Church of England be establish'd in Maryland; yet it is a Sanctuary for Papists, who are pretty numerous there, and enjoy the Freedom of their Priests and Mass in a great Measure, without Molestation.
Chap. II.
Of the Metropolis Williamsburgh, and the College, Capitol, and Governor's House, and the Church, &c.
