[44] But cf. the entry for November 22, 1632, when no such protestation is made: "A fast was held by the congregation of Boston, and Mr. Wilson (formerly their teacher) was chosen pastor and —— Oliver a ruling elder; and both were ordained by imposition of hands." This illustrates the gradual tendency to separate from the Church of England.
[45] This is an old use of the word family, to include Winthrop's many dependents, even married servants.
[46] The Lady Arbella was of the house of Lincoln.
[XIII. DEVELOPMENT OF DEMOCRACY, 1630-1644]
63. The Oligarchic Usurpation
Records of the Governor and Company of Massachusetts Bay, I (under dates given). Cf. Introduction to No. 57.
(1) [The First Court of Assistants, Charlestown, August, 23/September 2, 1630.]
... It was ordered that the Governor and Deputy Governor, for the tyme being, shall alwaies be justices of the peace, and that Sir Rich: Saltonstall, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Endicott, and Mr. Ludlowe shalbe justices of the peace for the present tyme, in all things to have like power that justices of the peace hath in England for reformacion of abuses and punishing of offenders; and that any justice of the peace may imprison an offender, but not inflict any corporall punishment without the presence and consent of some one of the Assistants.[47]
(2) [October 19/29, 1630.]
A General Court, holden att Boston. [The first General Court in America.]