Whereas we all came
into these parts of America with one and the same end and aim, namely,
to advance the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ and to enjoy the
liberties of the Gospel in purity with peace; and whereas in our
settling (by a wise providence of God) we are further dispersed upon
the sea coasts and rivers than was at first intended, so that we can
not according to our desire with convenience communicate in one
government and jurisdiction; and whereas we live encompassed with
people of several nations and strange languages which hereafter may
prove injurious to us or our posterity. And forasmuch as the natives
have formerly committed sundry Insolence and outrages upon several
Plantations of the English and have of late combined themselves
against us: and seeing by reason of those sad distractions in England
which they have heard of, and by which they know vie are hindered from
that humble way of seeking advice, or reaping those comfortable fruits
of protection, which at other times we might well expect. We
therefore do conceive it our bounder duty, without delay to enter into
a present Consociation amongst ourselves, for mutual help and strength
in all our future concernments: That, as in nation and religion, so in
other respects, we be and continue one according to the tenor and true
meaning of the ensuing articles: Wherefore it is fully agreed and
concluded by and between the parties or Jurisdictions above named, and
they jointly and severally do by these presents agree and conclude
that they all be and henceforth be called by the name of the United
Colonies of New England.
