The assembly [1606] owing to the distance of habitations, was obliged to form itself into two distinct religious societies; the one, with which is our concern, soon had for its pastor the famous Mr. _John Robinson_. The church kept together about a year; but being extremely harrassed by persecutors, concluded upon removing to _Holland_. The pious refugees repaired to and settled at Amsterdam; but after a while removed to _Leyden_; where they were highly respected, and would have been allowed some public favor, had it not been for fear of offending England. By hard and continued labor they obtained a living. The _Dutch_ employed them before others, for their honest and exemplary behaviour; and readily trusted them when in want of money. Matters, however, were not altogether to their mind [1617] and some of the most sensible began to think of another removal. It was imagined, that if a better and easier place of living could be had, numbers would join them. The morals of the Dutch were too dissolute; and they were afraid that their offspring would become irreligious. Beside, they had an ardent, noble, and godly desire, of laying a foundation for spreading the religion of _Jesus_ over the remote regions of the earth; and of handing down to future ages what they thought to be, the pure and unadulterated worship of the great JEHOVAH. They therefore directed their views to _America_. To those who objected—the length and danger of the voyage, the difficulties and calamities to which they should be exposed, the barbarities and treacheries of the _Indians_, and their inability to support the expence—it was answered “The difficulties are not invincible, and may be overcome by fortitude and patience; the ends proposed are good and honorable; the calling lawful and urgent; the blessing of God may therefore be expected. We live but as exiles now, and are in a poor condition. The truce with the _Spaniards_ is hastening to a close. Nothing but preparations for war are going forward. The _Spaniards_ may be as cruel as the _Savages_; and famine and pestilence may be as sore in _Holland_ as in _America_.” After serious and solemn application to God for direction, they concluded on carrying the proposal of crossing the _Atlantic_ into execution; endeavoring to live in a distinct body by themselves, under the general government of the _Virginia_ company; and suing to his majesty, king _James_, for _full liberty and freedom of conscience_.