The burgomasters and the council make known: Whereas it has come to our certain knowledge that not only many in the city and in the jurisdiction of the same presume to exercise and practice, contrary to the treaty sworn to and made with the city, A. D. ’94, another religion than the Reformed, to the adulteration of the word of God, to the misuse of his holy sacraments, and to the offense and seduction of many persons; but that also nearly all disorders and abuses in and without the marriage state, and also others contrary to the Christian church regulations established and customary here, creep in and are practiced; and we by virtue of our office recognize it our duty to meet and check all this with proper penalties: therefore, we have ordained, and do ordain and decree by these presents, as follows:
Firstly, that the exercise of all other religions than the Reformed is herewith again strictly prohibited.
And if any one be found to allow his house or place to the Anabaptists, contrary to the church regulations of this city, for the purpose of preaching or holding meetings therein, he shall each time be fined ten dollars.
The preachers, as aforesaid, if found to be preaching, shall for each offense be fined ten dollars, or be imprisoned two weeks on water and bread; and when detected in thus preaching the third time, shall be expelled from the city or the jurisdiction of the same.
And all that shall be found attending such preaching or gatherings, shall each time be fined two dollars.
Whoever shall be found to have rebaptized any one, shall be fined twenty dollars; and when detected the second time, shall be imprisoned on water and bread, and expelled as aforesaid.
Again, unbaptized children shall not receive inheritance, according to the city statutes.
No one also shall be admitted to any administration or office, public or private, nor be accepted as a witness, except he render the solemn oath required for it.
And all that refuse such oath shall be punished as is proper according to law.
(Note.—Here follow two other articles, which do not properly belong to this matter; hence we have omitted to place them here; but proceeding we read thus:)