Page four’s images move on to the Protestation Oath and the return from prison of the staunch Independants Burton, Bastwick and Prynne. First the Protestation Act of 1640 required that everyone take an oath of allegiance to the King. Every clergyman in the land was to read the Protestation and have his parishioners sign the oath. Here is a typical cleric in preaching gown, black cap and ruff, whilst his parishioners are in a selection of sleeved coats and collared cloaks. No boots on show though and all bareheaded, indicating they are good episcopalians. Generally, only the independents wore headgear at service.
The second picture shows the three independents who were imprisoned and pilloried for their anti-establishment beliefs after they were released by the Long Parliament. Similar selection of coats (spot the turnback cuffs) and cloaks being worn. Note also the rear marker wearing a ruff.
The 1640s Picturebook 
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