Comprehension

Comprehension in English history, "the scheme first proposed by Sir Orlando Bridgman in 1688 for relaxing the terms of conformity to the Established Church of England, and admitting Protestant dissenters into its communion. In 1674, Tillotson and Stillingfleet renewed the attempt, and the terms were settled to the satisfaction of the nonconformists; but, the bishops unanimously refusing their consent, the project fell to the ground. Immediately after the Revolution, the scheme was renewed at the instance of William III, but after two attempts the design of union was abandoned, and the Act of Toleration passed in its stead." See Macaulay, History of England, iii, 63,' 380; art. ENGLAND, CHURCH OF; Eden, Churchman's Dictionary, s.v.