In divers parts of Europe, where episcopacy hath been abolished, presbytery did succeed: and that (as it is asserted by many) upon such grounds, as will prove it as pure an aristocracy, as that of episcopacy was. The parties indeed have been changed, and instead of bishops we have presbyters: and though the former imparity be taken away, yet the form of government, which is aristocratic, remains. I have formerly heard many complain, that the bishops had cast off the presbyters: and now some do not like it well, that the presbyters have cast off the bishops, yet both do seem to agree to exclude the people, as distinct from the clergy, engrossing the whole power to themselves. These pure aristocratic forms have for the most part proved dangerous, especially in the church, because they do so much incline unto oligarchy, and usually degenerate into the same.

But to observe some order; I will [first] examine what these presbyters are; [second] whether these being known, can according to Christ's institution be the primary subject of this power; [and] add something concerning our English presbytery. […] These presbyters are of two sorts, […] some are preaching, [and] some are not preaching, but only ruling presbyters or elders. The former are trusted with the dispensation of the word and sacraments, the latter are not. Both have the same name and are elders, yet differ much in respect of their ecclesiastical being.