I prefer to charge him with ignorance and thoughtlessness.

How could he approve of your attacks on dogma, your revolutionary theories which tend to the complete destruction of our holy religion?
If it be a fact that he had read your book, the only excuse he can invoke is sudden and inexplicable aberration.

It is true that a very bad spirit prevails among a small portion of the French clergy.

What are called Gallican ideas are ever sprouting up like noxious weeds; there is a malcontent Liberalism rebellious to our authority which continually hungers for free examination and sentimental adventures." The Pope grew animated as he spoke.

Italian words mingled with his hesitating French, and every now and again his full nasal voice resounded with the sonority of a brass instrument.