His relations are of the second order of nobility, and are not rich: he has done nothing to alter their position.

His nephew, Count Mastai Ferretti, was recently married; and the Pope's wedding present consisted of a few diamonds, worth about L8000.

Nor did this modest gift cost the nation one baioccho.

The diamonds came from the Sovereign of Turkey.

Some ten years ago the Sultan of Constantinople, the Commander of the Faithful, presented the commander of the unfaithful with a saddle embroidered with precious stones.