Freedom Religion

James R Trusty and Welbeloved We greet you well. Whereas Our Trusty and Welbeloved Subjects the Inhabitants of Rhode Island in America have by their humble Petition prayed Us, that We would be graciously pleased to allow them Liberty of conscience and such other Privileges and Immunities formerly enjoyed by them, as may be consistent with Our Instructions and Commission to; We taking into Our consideration the duty and affection, the said Inhabitants have expressed to Us, by the free surrender of their character, and by other testimonies We are informed, they have given of their loyalty, particularly since your arrival in New England, have thought fit to condescend to their said request; and We do accordingly hereby signify the same to you, to the end you may give order from time to time, that Our said Subjects of Rhode Island receive the benefit of these Our gracious intentions to them, in enjoying such Privileges, as you shall judge consistent with Our Service as aforesaid. And so We bid you Farewell. Given at Our Court at Whitehall the 11th day of March 168 6/7 in the third year of Our Reign By his Maj(estys) command. Sunderland P