Or if some part of the functions of the latter run parallel with his, it is only _in ordine ad spiritualia_.

His temporalities remain unquestioned.

He is arbitrator of all questions of honor which may concern the defunct; and upon slight inspection will pronounce how long he may remain in this upper world with credit to himself, and when it will be prudent for his reputation that he should retire.

His determination in these points is peremptory and without appeal.

Yet, with a modesty peculiar to his profession, he meddles not out of his own sphere.