Nevertheless, a fine was laid upon them by the newly restored Government.

This drew forth the following epistle from Michelangelo:-- "Dearest Father,--Your last informs me how things are going on at Florence, though I already knew something.

We must have patience, commit ourselves to God, and repent of our sins; for these trials are solely due to them, and more particularly to pride and ingratitude.

I never conversed with a people more ungrateful and puffed up than the Florentines.

Therefore, if judgment comes, it is but right and reasonable.