protested

Protest \Pro*test"\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Protested}; p. pr. &
   vb. n. {Protesting}.] [F. protester, L. protestari, pro
   before + testari to be a witness, testis a witness. See
   {Testify}.]
   1. To affirm in a public or formal manner; to bear witness;
      to declare solemnly; to avow.
      [1913 Webster]

            He protest that his measures are pacific. --Landor.
      [1913 Webster]

            The lady doth protest too much, methinks. --Shak.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. To make a solemn declaration (often a written one)
      expressive of opposition; -- with against; as, he protest
      against your votes. --Denham.
      [1913 Webster]

            The conscience has power . . . to protest againts
            the exorbitancies of the passions.    --Shak.
      [1913 Webster]

   Syn: To affirm; asseverate; assert; aver; attest; testify;
        declare; profess. See {Affirm}.
        [1913 Webster]