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Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mithode. 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 ,1 h ^) — - — - M^^^ •« i 1 f V. • i tr-* ' Vfi f 1 t ■1 LEONIS xin CAEMIN^A I - •mummmmammn ft ] I Ai ■■ m - n - - - f i I ^ ^ THE LATIN POEMS OF LEO XIII DONE INTO ENGLISH VERSE By the Jesuits op Woodstock College FVBLISUED WITH THE APPROBATION Of HIS HOLINESS WITH A LIFE OF THE PONTIFF By Fr. Charles Piccirillo, S. J. PEOPLE'S PUBLISHING CO., TORONTO. 1887. -«/"< ■^>- <> S5A-0 LEONi . xrii PONTIFICI • MAXIMO STVDIORVM . OPTIMORVM ALVMNIS . SACRORVM • INSTITVENDIS VINDICI • ALTORI • PKOVIDENTISSIMO QV08 . IPSE • VERSVS • EXARAVIT CANDIDAM • LATINITATI8 • ELEGANTIAM EXIMIE . REDOLENTES EOS . IVNIORES • SODALES • E • 80C • lESV QVI • IN • AEDIBV8 • COLLEGII • WOODSTOCHIANI PIETATI . STVDIIS • QVE • ADOLESCVNT ANGIICE • A • SE • REDDITOS FIDEI . ET . AMORIS • NON • EXIQVI TENVE • PIGNV8 PARENT! • OPTIMO • INDVLGENTI8SIMO DEMI8SO • ANIMO OFFERVNT r. CABOLUS PICCIRILLO, B. f. STVD. MODEB. •-^ -^>- ••> •-©- TO OUB SOVEREIGN PONTIPF LEO XIII, WHO HAS WITH SUCH WISDOM AND FORESIGHT ELEVATED THE EDUCATION AND TRAINING OJP THE YOUTH OP THE SANCTTUARY, THIS ENGLISH VERSION OF HIS POEMS, WHICH ARE REPLETE WITH THE SIMPLIdTY AND GRACE OF OLD LATINITY, IS DEDICATED, AS A MODEST TOKEN OP THEIR GREAT LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS, BY THE YOUNGER MEMBERS OP THE SOCIETY OP JESUS, WHO FROM EVERY PART OF THESE UNITED STATES OP NORTH AMERICA ARE COME TOGETHER FOR THEIR STUDIES AT WOODSTOCK COLLEGE. -(>- -(^ mmm <>■ ■ 14 LIFE OF LEO XIII. was a delicate boj, with that fine face, and those bright eyes which even seventy years have not dimmed, and which we yet admire in the portraits of Leo XIII. His manly character claimed the respect of all, while his bright mind made his com- panions look upon him as a prodigy. At thirteen he was studying his humanities under the able Jesuit, Father Leonard Giribaldi, and an old class-mate of Vincent, thus describes those early years, in a letter written to a friend, shortly after Leo's election to the Pontificate : " I assure you that when he was at Viterbo his clever mind and straightforward conduct made him a great favorite. We were together in the class of humanities, and though we fought each other for the honors, we were always good friends. He seemed the picture of brightness and goodness. During our studies at Rome he never had many intimate friends; he was retiring and shunned the common sports and games. His world was around his desk ; science and learning were his paradise. He was only twelve or thirteen when I knew him at Viterbo, and yet he wrote Latin prose and verse with marvellous ease and elegance." In the year 1824, the first dark shadow fell across the life of Vincent : that year he lost his mother. It was a heavy stroke, for the young boy, with his affectionate heart, had loved her passion- ately. Shortly after his mother's death he went to Rome, where he lived with his uncle. Marquis Muti. There he resumed his clas- sics at the Roman College, under two famous professors of litera- ture, Fathers Ferdinand Menini and Joseph Bonvicini. After completing the course of rhetoric, he studied in the same College philosophy and science under Fathers Carafa, Pianciani and Fer- -(>- LIFE OF LEO XIII. 15 V rarini, who in their different branches, were accomplished teachers, as well as authors of great reputation. Pecci was as successful in philosophy as in classics, and though very young he boldly opened his books of theology and attended the lectures of the famous Fathers Perrone, Manera, Patrizi, Zecchinelli, Van Everbroek, Curi and Kohlman. We find in the beautiful Elegy, which he wrote in 1875, a fine tribute of praise to the memories of his old professors. He was a grateful student and knew that much of the pupil's glory belongs to the master. The future Pontiff was only eighteen when he began to study theology, and at twenty-one was graduated Doctor of Divinity. That he was a deep, mature and able scholar, the Diary and Records of the old Roman College testify. Think for a moment of that magnificent work. At fifteen, he was leading a large class of rhetoric, at fifteen he had mastered Italian, was a Latinist to the core, and wrote Greek with facility. His taste was universal, and we find him working so hard at science, that he took the first honors for chemistry and physics, and was not far behind in mathematics. Hie keen intellect and calm reasoning powers made philosophy a delightftil study. Honors fell thick upon him, and at the end of three years he was appointed Repetitor in the Ger- man College, where only the choicest of the ecclesiastical students of Germany are admitted, aft«r a severe competitive examination. A perfect classical scholar, a fair scientist, an able philosopher : no wonder, then, that he proved himself so good in theology. And yet it would have been glory enough for the youth of eighteen to have held a place among the lesser lights of that brilliant cluster of students who came from many lands to listen -<>-# - ■<)- -(H LIFE OF LEO Xlt\. 19 It may be recollected that rough storms were brewing over the Italian states, when Pecci was entrusted with the management of these important jirovinces. The tumult of the political hurricane was felt throughout Italy. The revolutionary party, composed of Young Italy and the Carbonari, had not been unsuccessful iu it3 efforts at revolutionizing the population. That dangerous clasd which, on such occasions, take advantage of the troubles of tho state to come forth from the low and worthless obscurity wherein they lurk for fear of public punishment, attracted the serious attention of Pecci, and with such energy did he pursue them, that in a few months he freed the Province of Benevento from them, and checked effectually all inroads from neighboring banditti. Seven years after he had left this office, I was in Benevento, and I can recall very vividly the marks of gratitude and the terms of praise with which the citizens mentioned the name of Pecci. Indeed, so great was the popularity which he acquired among them by liis gentleness and nobility of character, and by the prudence and impartiality of his administration, that, though many excellent men have succeeded him, his 'absence is felt, and not without regret. Perugia and Spoleto welcomed him with general satisfaction, when apostolic authority transferred him to that Delegation. An eye witness, the Abb6 Brunelli, Professor of the Seminary of Perugia, in an essay read at the Academy of Perugia in Septem- ber, 1878, sums up, in a few words, the life of Pecci, their Dele- gate : " In our Perugia, Monsgr. Pecci was not only loved, but, I would almost say, adored. You will remember how from the very beginning he had won the affection of all. It is said that under -(> so LIFE OF LEO XIII. his administration, our prisons, so much narrower then than now, were at one time entirely untenanted. To hope for or even to fancy such an event at the present time would be sheer folly." It was in Perugia that, on September 25th, 1841, the Delegate Pecci, amidst the greatest popular enthusiasm, welcomed Pope Gregory, who was then visiting the provinces of his temporal states. On this occasion the Pope could appreciate the merits of Pecci, partly from the public esteem in which he found him to be held, and partly from his own intercourse with him on subjects both political and administrative. Pope Gregory thought that the Holy See could draw still greater profit from the unusual ability of the Delegate ; so, at the first opportunity, the Holy Father appointed him, to the deep regret of the people of Perugia and Spoleto, Nuncio Apostolic to the court of King Leopold I, of Belgium. On the 19th of February, 1843, Monsgr. Pecci, although not yet thirty-three years of age, was consecrated, in the church of San Lorenzo in Panispema, in Rome, by the famous Cardinal Luigi Lambruschini, archbishop of Damietta. He arrived in Brussels on the 8th of April, 1844. The very first day, when he solemnly presented to the King his papers as Apostolic Nuncio, his unaffected dignity in word and action won the Royal good will, and the esteem and confidence of the court. Nor did he by his subsequent actions belie this first favorable impression. He abhorred hypocrisy and cunning. His policy consisted chiefly in speaking the truth without offense and without bitterness to all alike ; to king and courtier, to bishops and faithful. It was here that he began to inculcate those truths which he has so strongly and authoritatively maintained since his elevation to the throne y, y ' -^■ " ; ^""¥ ' ^h of St. Peter : above all the doctrine that the Catholic Church, instead of hindering civil progress is, on the contrary, its prime mover and most energetic supporter. The principles which we know him to hold to-day, are those which as Nuncio he upheld in Belgium. During this period, he was the very soul, both of the impulses given to, and of the improvements made in, the spiritual and scientific education of the clergy, and in the moral and material welfare of the faithful. He patronized the building of churches, the creation of new institutions of charity, and the foundation or introduction of Religious Orders. He zealously labored to enforce the observance of the Sunday, to bring about a greater reverence and appreciation of the dignity and sacred- ness of the bond of marriage, and to promote the observance of the sacred rites and ceremonies of our Holy Church. Nor did his zeal in the performance of his duties check his ardor for self-improvement. He sought a personal acquaintance with i\e highest dignitaries of the kingdom ; he visited and examined their institutions, especially those founded for the relief of the poor, and he subsequently introduced them into either Perugia or Rome. He obtained an accurate knowledge of the government of the principal cities, and made a study of the oldest and wisest municipal statutes. In a word he became thoroughly conversant with Belgian affairs ; and conceived such an affec- tionate regard for the people that, later, when Bishop of Perugia, he made his own palace the abode of all Belgian visitors and welcomed to it, during their vacations, all the students of the Belgian college at Rome. Following the counsel of wisdom, that the wise man, visiting different countries should observe with care ■ -ih* 22 LIFE OF LEO XIII. the good and tho evil for his own future advantage, Monsgr. Pccci, while residing at the court of Leopold, made it his business when his duties pernutted him, to visit the chief cities of the surrounding countries and thus became acquainted with their Sovereign Princes and their most eminent prelates, statesmen and scientists. Thus he visited France, Holland, the Rhine prov- inces and London. In a Avord the stay of Pecci in Belgium proved invaluable to him for the acquisition of that knowledge of human nature, which has so characterized him since, and has enabled him to discern the motives of men's action, and to appreciate the great conflict which sometimes exists between prin- ciples and their application. To this period, too, he owes much of that rare wisdom, prudence and tact, which has of late years so distinguished his government, as Supreme Head of Christendom. Meanwhile on April 16, 1845, occurred the death of the vener- able bishop of Perugia, Monsgr. Carlo Filesio, Marquis Cittadini, a man of austere and blameless character, of tried experience, the love and pride of his dear children of Perugia. Mindful of their beneficent Delegate, and moved by the glory attached to his name, the devoted Perugians sent an embassy of clerics and laymen to the Roman Court, urgently requesting the appointment of Pecci to the vacant see. Though rebuked and dismissed, they were not disheartened, but so earnestly repeated their request, that they moved the Holy Father to give his assent. In a consistory held on the 19th of January, 1846, the last ever held by Gregory, three years after Pecci's appointment as Nuncio, the important and exalted charge of the Diocese of Perugia was assigned to him by the Sovereign Pontiff". The withdrawal of the Nuncio Pecci <> •-ih ■(H LIFE OF LEO XIII. was a source of great regret to King Leopold, who esteemed him 80 highly and so approved of his measures, that, as a token of his high regard, he bestowed upon him, by a decree dated May 1 , 1846, the Great Cordon of the Royal Order, Saint-Ferdinand, founded by himself on his accession to the throne of Belgium. The new bishop made his official entrance into Perugia on the feast of St. Ann, the 26th of July, 1846. He had chosen this day in preference to any other, because of his fond affection for his mother, the Countess Anna, whose presence, indeed, he had lost some twenty-two years before, but whose deep love and tender devotedness were *ever fresh and lasting in his memory. It is a singular coincidence and one worth recording, that, at the very time Monsgr. Pecci was elevated to the see of Perugia, John Maria Mastai Ferretti ascended the pontifical chair as Supreme Head of the Church and Vicar of Christ, with the title of Pius IX. Pecci governed his diocese as long as Pius governed the Church as Bishop of Rome. Nine years after his elevation to the bishopric of Perugia, Pius IX created him, in the consistory of December 17, 1853, a Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church, under the title of St. Chrysogonus. This event, fraught with prophetic consequences, added new lustre to his person, and gave greater celebrity to the see of Perugia. The see of Perugia, embracing as it docs a large population distributed over an extensive hill-country, is one of the mcfet im- portant dioceses of Italy. The people are of a quick, penetrating disposition, of sober and industrious habits, and of social manners which, though simple and manly, evince at once their exceUent mind and refined taste. Their taste and refinement are especially 'f^ *-(>- said, the difficulty of ruling a people is in direct proportion to their degree of culture. It was, however, the glory of Bishop Pecci to govern this diocese for thirty-two years to the great satis- faction of all its varied classes, and not only to have preserved the advantages of which he found it possessed, but to have greatly improved its existing institutions and to have introduced many others. In such a sketch of his life as the present, it would be impossible to enter into the details of his Episcopal administration, and we must content ourselves with striving to present merely a general outline of what he accomplished and of the means which he was so careful to employ in every department of labor. The great secret of Bishop Pecci's activity lies in the plan of life which he adopted at his first entrance on the see of Perugia. Though of a slender frame and delicate health, he never allowed himself any of the indulgences or useless comforts of life. He rose early every morning, daybreak always finding him on his knees in prayer, while in every season of the year he made it his custom to retire at ten o'clock. He took but one meal a day, and that of the simplest and most frugal kind. He never indulged in idle or useless conversations, and his difierent walks and journeys were taken when necessity or charity demanded them. Never, therefore, losing a moment of time, he was able to double his natural activity and greatly multiply his labors. When others who assisted him, or who commenced their work after he had be- gun, would feel fatigued, he himself was still fresh and vigorous. It was in this way that he always found leisure, not only for the reception of his numerous visitors and the speedy dispatch of his daily routine of office, but also for extensive study, meditation and •^y <> r , ftffr -(> i ) 5 iy- 26 LIFE OF LEO XIII writing on the great discoveries and problems of the day. Pur- Buing such a life of regularity and labor, it is not surprising that he was able to underta?.'o so many various works and bestow hia personal care upon them all, even to the smallest particulars. His principal solicitude, however, was for the clergy of his dio- cese. He found them, indeed, a learned, pious and zealous body, and some superiors would doubtless have been satisfied with the moderate care of preserving them in this commendable condi- tion ; but Bishop Pecci aimed at a loftier standard of perfection. He began his course of improvements at the very root of the matter, the first education, namely, of the young candidates for the priesthood. During the earliest years of his episcopate, he practically rebuilt the diocesan seminary, making it roomier, healthier, better arranged for purposes of discipline, and more amply furnished with the accommodations required for a higher course of literary, philosophical and theological studies. To en- large the seminary, he did not hesitate even to sacrifice a part of his episcopal residence. He then improved the entire program of studies by arranging them in a more methodical order and adding several new branches to the course. He made it a special care to select as professors men of the greatest talent and learning, and spared no means in his power to excite their zeal in the service of the seminary. He often assisted at their lectures; he praised them publicly and rewarded them handsomely, according to their merits : while at the same time he never failed to admonish them in the kindest and gentlest manner of their little deficiencies. One of the professors relates a story in point, which shows us how sweetly these admonitions were often conveyed. At the time \: * m « »n^ i i w»> „ . - *v 28 LIFE OF LEO XIII. recompense, and one which was dearest to his heart, was the happy fruit which he gathered from so many cares and sacrifices ; for the clergy of Perugia became one of the most learned and edifying bodies in all Italy. While thus attending to the education of the younger clergy, Cardinal Pecci was not less vigilant for the safety and prosperity of the priests who were actively engaged in the different spheres of the ministry. He followed the steps of each of them with a more paternal anxiety. The impressive thought of his own great responsibility as well as theirs, kept him constantly engaged in securing the most appropriate means for the welfare, not only of the whole body, but of every individual. He began his labor in this direction by publishing, in 1851, a decree concerning the dis- cipline of the clergy, which he afterwards scrupulously enforced throughout his administration. In 1856 he addressed all the parish priests in a Pastoral on the duty of teaching the Christian doctrine and the best means of complying therewith. In the following year he addressed them in a second Pastoral, in which he laid down a common methcd of discipline for the observance of all in the direction of their parishes. He gave them besides many more particular instructions on their manifold obligations, amongst which we may mention the Rules he prescribed in 1866, for their conduct during times of political commotion. They were remark- able for their wisdom and prudence, and are still looked upon a» a masterly system of guidance in such difficult emergencies. The means which he employed to keep himself constantly and accurately informed concerning the conduct of his clergy, were chiefly two. The first was the free and ever ready access to him- Hh -^ ■^ LIFE OF LEO XIII. 29 self, Avhich was always marked by a kind reception and generous hospitality. The other was the regular visitation which he made of all the parishes, churches, and pious institutions of the Diocese, a duty which is prescribed by canon law as of the highest impor- tance. During his term of office as Bishop, he made this visita- tion seven times. He was unable, however, to complete the last, owing to his being called to Rome to assume the exalted dignity of Camerlengo of the Roman Church, which had been left vacant by the death of Cardinal de Angelis. Nor was his care for his clergy confined to their spiritual improvement, but it extended equally to their temporal welfare. He showed himself a mag- nanimous as well as a tender father, and none of his clergy ever required his help without immediately receiving it, even before they made their necessities known. When the iniquitous law imposing the compulsory enrolment of all young Italians in the military service rendered the priesthood liable to the draft, he founded the pious work called the Exemption of Clergymen from Actual Service, by which those of the clergy who might be called upon to enter the army should be assisted in freeing themselves by paying the government a heavy tax. Another of his founda- tions was the Comorzio of St. Joachim for ecclesiastics, where those of the clergy who, by illness, old age, or any other inability, needed support, could find it in a manner becoming their station. His zeal for the worship of God was likewise as great as it was enlightened. As this is the one supreme end to which the Divine institution of the Church is directed, so it was the object of his constant watchfulness. Whatever could in any way foster the piety of his flock, he embraced with joy. More than thirty -i^- ■^ ■■ I •-4>- new churches were erected during his episcopate, and as many- others were restored and improved. The Cathedral Church especially was adorned with costly marbles and paintings and enriched with precious vestments and golden vases. The usual services in the churches and the ordinary practices of piety he caused to be elevated to a nobler standard. He never failed to assist at them personally, and enhanced the effect of the sacred ceremonies by performing them with the most solemn rites. Ho frequently addressed the people with exhortations and sacred homilies, in which his natural eloquence and profound learning gave such strength and persuasion to his words, that they never failed to produce salutary effects. Some of these exhortations were afterwards printed for the benefit of the whole diocese, and were found to be models of sacred oratory as well as evident proofs of a truly episcopal zeal. Besides these oral addresses, he was also accustomed to issue frequent Pastoral Letters for the edification and instruction of all his people. Scarcely a year passed without the publication of one or two of them. They treated with unusual breadth and thoroughness the most important topics of the day, such, for example, as the abuse of magnetism; the temporal dominion of the Pope; the impious work of R6nan, The life of Jesus Christ ; the current errors and prejudices in matters of religion ; the tendency of the present day to deny Revelation ; the Catholic Church and the nineteenth century ; the relations between the Church and civilization ; and many similar subjects; befitting both the times and the flock com- mitted to his charge. With all these cares. Bishop Pecci was not less zealous for the secular instruction and material relief of his subjects. The -(H <> University of Perugia, of which he was ex-offido the Grand Chan- cellor, lie reformed in various ways. He also founded many collepfcs for the instruction of boys, and seminaries for the higher cduciitioii of girls. For the children of the poor, he founded and widely spread what he called the Gardens of St. Philip Neri, where the children could spend their Sundays in religious worship r.nd the hearing of useful instruction and in innocent amusements. There were none of the pious institutions for the relief of the needy, into which he did not introduce great and wholesome changes. Others, such as the Orphan Asylum for women suffering from chronic diseases, he himself founded and endowed. A natural consequence of all this solicitude was the way in which it endeared him to all his people. Their affection was shown in a very loving way in 1869, when he celebrated the Silver Jubilee of his Episcopate. The demonstrations of joy and gratitude on the part of all classes of the people were sincere and tender beyond expression, and he himself declared that they surpassed his great- est expectations, and were the best human reward he could desire for his labors in behalf of his flock. This rapid enumeration of some of the facts of his episcopal life may give some idea of the zeal and nobility of mind and heart, with which Cardinal Pecci adorned the Bishopric of Perugia. It may be added that during his administration there, he found him- self involved in the storms of three successive revolutions: that of 1848-49, which lasted almost a year ; that of 1859, which was of short duration and ended with the taking of Perugia by the Pon- tifical troops, so much calumniated for the act ; and, lastly, that of the autumn of 1860, when the Piedmontese army invaded the -<^ r ■ 1 i ■ 1 1 ! f i| ' i i 32 LIFE OF LEO XIII. States of the Pope. In each of these revolutions, Cardinal Pecci had much to suffer, but throughout he was ever true to his lofty character : charitable, firm, cautious and prudent ; so that he yv&s able to inspire the hearts of the very enemies of the priesthood and of the Roman purple with. a sense of reverence for himself and his sacred office. A proof of this was given in 1861, when Perugia had fallen into the hands of the Piedmontese. Three of his priests had provoked him to suspend them from their sacerdotal functions, because of their scandalous cooperation with the revolutionists. They then insolently summoned him before the tribunal of Peru- gia, in the hope of their being supported by the civil power in whose favor they had acted. The court, however, respected the rights of the Cardinal and allowed him full liberty over his refrac- tory clergy. As we have said, Pius IX, in a consistory held on the 21st of Sep- tember, 1877, appointed Cardinal Pecci to the office of Camerlengo of the Church. He was accordingly called to Rome to enter upon the exercise of his new duties. The event proved that this appoint- ment was part of the plan of Divine Providence in his regard. For, thus it was brought about that Cardinal Pecci became a per- manent resideni c^ Rome, shortly before the death of the admira- ble Pont'ff >• i wi :. ■; . .uxHi so worthily to succeed. The C . r-ti' Oim* riengo, at the death of a Pope, is invested with the ,-'f^\v^i j^)oweri for the administration of the Church, till the election of e rv, : <.^,>e; and on him especially rests the responsible duty of preparing the Conclave for the nomination of a successor to the chair of St. Peter. On February 7th, 1878, Pius IX, having outlived the reign of the Prince of the Apostles^ ^ LIFE OF LEO XIII. 88 went to receive the well won recompense of his saintly life and faithful stewardship. When the solemn obsequies were over, the Conclave was opened on the 18th of February, four months and a half after the arrival in Rome of Cardinal Pecci. In the Sacred College of Cardinals there was no doubt as to who was best fitted both in wisdom and grace to succeed Pius IX. Remarkable alike for virtue and learning, Cardinal Pecci gained at once the suffrages of the august electort. On February 20th, 1878, after thirty-six hours of conclave, he was elected Sovereign Pontiff to the joy of all Christendom ; and accepting, though with great reluctance, the high dignity thus conferred upon him, he took the name of Leo XIII. The newly-elected Pope was an Italian by birth, and a citizen of the States of the Church. During the thirty-two years of his residence in Perugia he had shown himself a holy and zealous Bishop. And this fidelity in so important a charge, accompanied as it was by a large experience in the transactions of diplomatic and administrative affairs, was sufiicient warrant of his worth. To these two qualities was added great learning in theology, canon law, philosophy, and all branches of classic literature. He was already in the sixty-eighth year of his age: and thus what is usually a time of rest for others, was for him but the beginning of a life of wonderful activity. Though his delicate health, impaired by past labors, might have justified in him an old age of repose, yet he addressed himself to his lofty task with an energy that never slackened. A strong mind and generous heart can often give vigor to a failing body. Though the field of Leo's work was by his elevation so widely extended, and his responsibility before -<>■ -()- -<> ■<> 84 LIFE OF LEO XIII. God and man so greatly increased, he found in his mind and heart virtue, powerful enough to make up for bodily weakness. No Roman Pontiff ever ascended the throne in more critical circumstances. He was the successor of one who for many years had been a prisoner in the Papal Palace. Pius IX had won from the Catholic world the title of Great, which was but the just reward of his high virtues, his heroic endurance, and his never failing benevolence. Leo XIII was to succeed Pius IX, not only as the warder of God's Church on earth, but also as the Prisoner in the Vatican, and as the cherished Father of the faith- ful. He found the temporal power of the Holy See usurped, the necessary instruments of administration impaired, and a tendency in almost all th'< secular powers of Europe to lessen or even to destroy the rights of the Catholic Church. Great were the ex- pectations that attended the opening of Leo's reign ; but the diffi- culties that surrounded him Avere even greater. A cursory glance at the first eight years will show how freely Leo XIII hap nTT:,vered those hopes by overcoming the causes that combined to darken and hinder their fulfilment. No one can fail to see how Leo XIII has exerted himself to for- ward the spirit of piety and religion By three successive jubilees he has brought down manifold blessings on his enterprises, and amongst those blessings that greatest of all, the reform of Christian life throughout the whole world. To foster this reform and to increase it, he has raised to the honor of the altar many a hero of saintliness. Thus the faithful have not only been led to higher perfection, but are encouraged to persevere therein after the pat- tern of exalted models. It was in order to stimulate the spirit of — (H <>■ MMM WMWHiiW k-t)" V LIFE OF LHO XIII. i^ charity towards the indigent and BuiU'ring that he proposed as Patron of all pious works the great St. Vincent de Paul ; while to those engaged in pursuit of philosophical and theological studies, he has given as a model and protector, St. Thomas o{ Aquino, the Angel of the Schools. A powerful aid to the amendment of life and the defence of virtue in secular persons was his exhortation to all the faithful to join the Third Order of St. Francis, whose mem- bers take a special pledge, under the patronage of St. Francis of Assist, to keep the commandments of God and the precepts of the Church as faithfully as possible. As for devotion to the Blessed Mother of God, who docs not know of the advancement it has received from the filial love of Her Son's Representative ? Not content with ordering prayers to be said in her honor at the end pf every Mass, he has consecrated the month of October to her, under the title of Queen of the Most Holy Rosary. In fact, we can safely assert that scarcely a month of these eight years has not been characterized by some means or other employed by His Holiness to spread and strengthen devotion. But his most thoughtful care has been given to the Episcopal Hierarchy of the Church. Never has he in the choice of Pastors of the flock of Christ sacrificed the Church's interest to gratify the caprices of the princes of the world. His selections of Bishops have been always most judicious ; and this too in accordance with existing laws and concordats. At times he has not hesitated to modify such customs and conventions, in order to secure a more successful result. One of the first acts of his Pontificate, in 1878, was to appoint a commission of five Cardinals, who were to select with care and discretion such Italian priests as were worthiest of 4- "^ ■WW *-<>■ <)-» 8(j LIFE OF LEO XIII the mitre. Nor has his care in the choice of clergymen extended only over Italy and the other European nations ; hut here, in the United States of America, we have felt that his acquaintance with our needs was that of one who lived among us. Coming to that highest dignity which it is in the Pope's power to confer, we see that Leo's prudence has shone especially where prudence in the choice of prelates ought chiefly to be manifested ; for it is with the August College of Cardinals that the Pope has to consult in affairs of administration, and in the solution of whatever diflScult questions may occur. Leo XIII has already held eight consistories for the creation of Cardinals; of those raised by His Holiness to the Cardinalate, thirty-six are still living: and it may in truth be said that they form a constellation, ^hich the Catholics of any age might be proud to own and venerate. Their names are too familiar to the world to call for any notice here. Newman is amongst them, and Hergenrother, and Zigliara, and Pccci, and Alimonda, and Lavigerie, and Capecelatro, and Mazzella, and our own beloved James Gibbons, Cardinal Archbishop of Baltimore. The constitution of the different national hierarchies has been another zealous care of the Holy Father. By successive Bulls he has established new Hierarchies and created new Sees. The countries thus benefitted were Scotland, Poland, Bosnia, Herze- govina ; as well as North and South America, together with Asia, Africa and Oceania. He put an end to the schism of Armenia, and received at the Vatican with the greatest kindness the bishops and priests who had been the originators and warmest supporters of the schism. Besides the ordinary visits ad lAmina, during which -(H LIFE OF LEO XIII. St every Bishop is personally bound to give to the Pope an account of his diocesan administration, Pope Leo XIII, has frequently summoned to Home the more eminent prelates of different coun- tries, that they might with greater facility and freedom make known their wants, and receive in return the assistance of His Holiness, along with his counsel and direction. The memory shall long remain of that time, when the American Archbishops and Bishops gathered in Rome in preparation for the Third Plenary Council of Baltimore. The kind reception they met with at the hands of the Pope was such, as the Vicar of Christ alone could give. Nor has a warm and open welcome been the only consolation given by Leo XIII to the Prelates who have gone to him in behalf of the churches committed to their charge. In every hardship and difficulty, the whole Hierarchy of the Church have found in him a constant helper and an unerring adviser ; while his letters addressed to them at various times have been marked as well by nobility of style, as by elevation of thought and the wisdom of the teaching. It is saying but little to assert that they will long out- live the false maxims they refute and the evils they condemn. Who does not remember the eloquent Encyclical, addressed to the Italian Bishops in 1882 ? In it they are earnestly exhorted to defend the Christian Faith against sectarian attacks, against an ungodly press, and against the teachings of infidel professors. Later on when Catholicity in Holland was threatened by revolutionary societies, aimmg at the destruction of authority and morality, His Holiness addressed to the Bishops of that country letters full of instruction and encouragement. With like wise vigilance has he directed -<)- ^)- ^ I -<>- w LIFE OF LEO XIII. his eyes towards the struggle, carried forward by the Catholics of Spain against impiety, immorality, and oppression. His Ency- clical sent at that depressing time to the Spanish Bishops is marked throughout by the tender sympathy and the far-seeing wisdom of a Father and a Ruler. Nor was his powerful influence unfelt, nor his pacifying voice unheeded by the Bishops of Milan, Turin, and Vercelli, during the bitter quarrel in which the Catholic jour- nals of these cities stood opposed to one another on mere questions of science. Such in a few words have been the Encyclicals of Leo XIII. They are stamped in every instance with the impress of his own exalted mind. It is astonishing how, notwithstanding the manifold and distracting cares of his Pontificate, Our Holy Father has found time to write these Encyclicals. Though every year has called for some letters from Leo XIII, those to which we have referred were all written during the year 1882, alone. Nor did the Holy Father cease here to wield his pen for the consolation and advancement of his children. Besides these special communications to difierent countries, he has, on several occasions of more universal importance, addressed Encyclical Letters to all the Bishops of the Church. These Encyclicals are splendid specimens of forcible eloquence, and living monuments of wisdom and learning. In them the Christian world recognizes that elevation of thought, that nobility of mind and that, refine- ment of culture, which are on all sides acknowledged to belong to the present Pontiff. As the space allotted to this biography is necessarily limited, we must content ourselves with a simple enumeration of the topics that form their subject matter. This brief summary will, however, satisfiictorily demonstrate how oppor- ^ <>■ »-(>- LIFB OF LEO Xlll. tune and how well suited to the needs of our time are the counsels of our provident Father. His first Encyclical which treats of Progress, is dated April 21, 1878. In it Pope Leo proves, in his own masterly way, that the Church, far from being the enemy of Progress, has ever been and will continue to be the zealous promoter of that humanizing civilization and social culture, which are everywhere esteemed the very consummation of Progress. Towards the end of the game year, on December 28, he gave to the world another Ency- clical, which may be with propriety styled the complement of its predecessor. It is a magnificent and a sweeping refutation and condemnation of Socialism, Communism, and Nihilism. Under the skilful hand of Leo XIII, their sophistries are unmasked and their doctrines made to appear in all their native hideousness. Every honest man, that peruses this letter with any attention, can- not but agree with its learned and authoritative teaching, that Socialism, Communism, and Nihilism are alike subversive of the Gospel and of civil society, and that they are as insuperable hindrances to the prosperity of the State, as they are to the benig- nant influence of Christian morality. The sanctity of Matrimony so seriously threatened in our days by short-sighted legislators, is placed in clear light, and defended by Pope Leo in his Encyclical of February 10, 1880. He bases all his remarks on the primitive institution of marriage by God Himself in the garden of Eden, and on the elevation of wedlock to the dignity of a Sacrament in the New Law, promulgated by Our Lord Jesus Christ. In this Encyclical he evinces his stead- fast adherence to the traditions of the Holy See. The Roman frnum* i>- <> 40 LIFE OF LEO XIII. Pontiffs rather than yield a tittle to the concupiscences of men ill this vitally important point, have braved the might and the anger of emperors and kings. In the following year, June 21, 1881, he again adverted to the social and political troubles that agitate the world. He penned from an evangelical standpoint an elaborate defence of that authority which is the life-giving principle of all governments, whatever their form, and whatever their origin. God, he there shows conclusively, and God alone, vests ruler and people with their peculiar rights, and imposes on them their reciprocal duties. But of all Pope Leo's Encyclicals none made a deeper impression on the world of thought, none evoked more widespread interest, than his Imraortale Dei, published November 1, 1885. Here, as the universal teacher of the Church, he lays down and eluci- dates the principles, which must actuate every body of men, ambitious of the name of government ; principles, which spring from the very nature of society, and, therefore, from the designs and ideas of God Himself. Apart from the teacher's high authority, which lends so great a weight to this exposition, all agree that, on this particular subject, the Encyclical in compre- hensiveness, depth and moderation of tone is unequalled. The Sovereign Pontiff, as beseems his high office, ever yearns with all the solicitude of a father for the wellbeing of the Mis- sions. Nor is this solicitude misplaced. For the Missions are outposts that do battle with error, and plant the Standard of the Cross in the enemy's country. They slowly and silently subjugate whole nations, and reduce peoples to the mild sway of the Gospel. What interest should be closer to the heart of Christ's Vicar than I men the the propagation of Christ's name and the spread of His Empire! In Leo XIII, this zeal has been notably active and fruitful. To set this statement of ours in bolder relief, we need only cursorily glance at the favors he has heaped on the different Missions, and thence image to ourselves the paternal anxiety with which he guards their interests. We prefer to speak first of the kindness that the Missions in general have experienced at his hands. On December 3d, 1880, at the very beginning of his Pontificate, he addressed to the Cath- olic Episcopacy his splendid Encyclical, Sanda Dei Civitai. In it he urges the piety and the charity of all Christendom to assist with prayers and with alms the work of the Missions. Descending to particulars, he mentions as especially worthy of thoughtful concern the Propaganda, the Holy Childhood, and the Eastern Schools. The Congregation of the Propaganda and of the Oriental Rites, to which are entrusted the welfare and enlight- enment of almost innumerable Christian Communities, spread over the surface of the earth, has claimed the present Pontiff's most earnest attention. To strengthen this Congregation and to render it equal to its task, he has appointed to it Cardinals and Prelates dis- tinguished alike for their rare talents and their long experience. When the Italian Government dared to execute what neither former revolutionists, nor the French invaders of Rome under Napoleon I, vere bold enough to carry into effect, viz., the confiscation of the land property belonging to the Congregation, and devoted to the support of Missionaries and Missions ; Leo XIII, after having in vain tried by all means to avert so disastrous a calamity, after having loudly protested against the injustice of the measure, pro- -<)- V K>- vided for the future security of the Congregation by removing the administration of its revenues out of Italy. Unhappy times, when the propagation of our Holy Faith is exposed to the unhal- lowed touch of the usurper's hand in the very capital of Chris- tianity ! Missionary priests, both regular and secular, should be, to use the admirable words of our Lord Jesus Christ, the salt and the light of the earth. Mindful of this, Leo has by wise and salutary regulations provided them with most abundant helps. They are, first, to master by special and energetic study the Eastern tongues ; then, to add to a plentiful store of sacred learning a deep knowl- edge of the natural sciences ; and, last of all, while abroad they are to devote the time, free from active missionary duties, to the col- lection of documents and memorials, that may in any way serve to illustrate the geography, the natural history, the traditions and, especially, the religions of each country. With regard to the different nt issions in particular, we may mention the Delegates whom Leo XIII sent with letters and costly presents to the Shah of Persia and to the three Emperors of Turkey, China and Japan, to assure them of the loyalty of their Christian subjects, and to commend these same subjects to their Majesties' protection. From each of them the Pope received most kind and courteous answers, accompanied with promises the most explicit, that the Christians of their respective dominion^ should enjoy the same privileges and the same liberty as their other subjects. Facts proved afterwards, to the great advantage of the Missions, the sin- cerity of these promises. We have elsewhere spoken of the happy termination of the Armenian schism. He crowned this event by — (^ ■<>■ raising to the Cardinalate their Patriarch, Mgr. Hassoun, the val- iant champion of Catholic unity. To bind closer together the Missions and Vicariates of India, and to facilitate communication with the Propaganda, he created two Apostolic Delegates, one for Oriental India, the other in the Punjub for British India. In the United States of North America he raised the Bishopric of Chicago to an Archdiocese, and erected the new Dioceses of Kansas City, Davenport, Trenton, Grand Rapids, Helena and Manchester, and the new Vicariate of Dakota. In Canada the new Diccese of Chi- coutimi and Peterborough owe their establishment to the present Pontiff. The Apostolic Vicariate at Pontiac and the Prefecture of the Gulf of St. Lawrence are also creations of his. Besides the Apostolic Delegates deputed to Ilayti and several Republics of South America, a new Archbishop was named for San Domingo. The Salesian Fathers, through the impulse and under the direc- tion of Leo XIII, are laboring successfully in Patagonia. Even Oceanica, whither new bands of missionaries have already been dispatched, begins to experience tlie all-pervading influence of his universal zeal. A small party of these missionaries, landing on the const of New Guinea, gave to it the name of Port Leo. The Catholic Hierarchy of Australia has been honored by the elevation of the Archbishop of Sidney to the Cardinalate. Its first National Council marks the beginning of a new era of activity and prosperity in that country. Africa, too, has come in for its share of the Pontiff's solicitude. Monsgr. Massaia, the indefatigable apostle of the Gallas, has been raised by him to the dignity of the Roman Purple. He has restored the ancient Metropolitan See of Carthage. Apostolic Delegates have been -<>- ^ 44 LIFE OF LEO XIII sent by him to Victoria Nyanza, to the Island of Madagascar, and to Zanguibar. During his reign, likewise, the Apostolic Prefectures of the Gold Coast, Dahomey and Zambeze have been established. This hurried mention of scattered facts is, we presume, evidence enough of the zealous care, with which Leo provides for distant laborers in the Lord's vineyard, and of the impetus and vigor that nine years of energy and zeal have infused into the work of the Missions. * Among the many qualifications which led the Cardinal electors to make choice of the Bishop of Perugia for the Roman Pontifi- cate, none better fitted him for that high office, in those turbulent times, than his eminent political abilities, of which more than once he had furnished abundant proofs. At the time of hia election the relations existing between the Holy See and the Sovereign States of Europe placed the occupant of Vue Pontifical Throne in a peculiarly trying position. The government of Italy, not satisfied with having deprived the Holy See of its temporal possessions, sought also to fetter the personal liberty of the Pontiff". Prussia and Russia were threatening to cut off" from their Catholic subjects all intercourse with their Supreme Pastor at Rome. France and Belgium were ruled by unbelievers who were endeavoring to eradicate the principles, which Christianity had implanted in the hearts of the people. Nor was the condition of aflUirs in the other States of Europe more assuring. If hos' tilities were fewer and enmity less apparent, still, instances were not wanting in which the rights of the Church were disregarded, and even, at times, openly violated. Not the least arduous, there- fore, of the duties of the new Pope, was the task of quieting these - LIFE OF LEO XIII. 45 animosities and introducing better feelings between the Powers of Europe and the Church over which he ruled. To this duty Leo XIII applied himself with characteristic vigor. No sooner had he been elevated to the chair of St. Peter, than he began this laborious work ; and with a wisdom, prudence and perseverance, which few could better exert ; by an admirable selection of the means and a delicate tact in applying them ; he has, in a few years, achieved greater success, than even his most sanguine hopes could have led him to expect. Many and great are the changes which have been brought about by his untiring zeal. With Prince Nikita a concordat has been entered into, which secures the diocesan independence of the Principalities of Monte- negro. A treaty between the Holy See and the Canton of Ticino has settled many long standing troubles, relating to Episcopal jurisdiction. The king of Belgium again sends his minister to the Pontifical Court. Portugal, too, recognizes the influence of the Vatican. Negotiations for a new concordat were opened on the very day that the Prince of Portugal celebrated his nuptials. In Spain more freedom is given to the bishops and clergy in the exercise of their respective duties, and some of the most obnoxious laws have been ameliorated, or practically abolished. In recog- nition of these favors the Pope, in 1886, presented the Golden Rose to Her Catholic Majesty, the Queen Regent. With Austria the relations have been most friendly ; and on the occasion of the marriage of the Archduke in 1881, the Pope showed his kindly feelings by sending rich presents to the Imperial couple. In France, owing to the aggressive policy of the party in power, the influence of His Holiness has been less effectual, and his efibrts have ^ r t 46 LIFE OF LEO Xllt. met with less success; but even iiti/i-. »»u..'th h'^s been gained, as was lately proved by the amicable iwijjo ..ijut of the difficulties relating to the diplomatic representation in ('liii With the Italian Government, tir > a differed --rjjie of action had to be puraued. Here there was no r^oai t'^' . ' -^'O'lin^tion. Not only do the interests of the Catholic wand and ihe sacred dignity of the Vicar of Christ require the Pope to protect the rights and possessions of the Holy See, but he is bound moreover, by his oath of office, to defend them, if necessary, even with his blood. These rights and possessions the Italian Government has usurped and still retains. Nor is it the intention of the present rulers of Italy to restore the least portion of what they have so unjustly seized. True, they ask for a reconciliation with the Holy See ; but for what purpose ? Is it not to obtain a kind of absolution for past offenses, and to secure for the future a sort of right to enjoy their unlawful conquests in peace? What could Leo XIII do in such circumstances ? He had no choice but to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor, Pius IX. Again and again has he fearlessly renewed the same protestations, asserted the same rights, brought forward the same complaint. This he must do ; but mark the moderation and meekness which characterizes his every act in this unpleasant duty. In not one of his writings on this subject is there found a single expression which could be made to convey a feeling of bitterness, much less a desire for revenge. On the contrary, the unprejudiced reader finds in them the sentiments of a man who has as much at heart the welfare and glory of Italy, as the advancement and triumph of religion or the protection and prosperity of the Church of God. And this course • LIFE OF LEO XIII. 47 of action on the part of His Holiness is gradually producing a change in the minds of the most eminent statesmen, many of whom do not hesitate to predict a revival, for the near future, of the Roman Question, and what is more important, its speedy solution in accordance with the principles of truth and justice. So fsir we have passed in review the Catholic states of Europe, and remarked the success which attended the efforts of Leo in his dealings with them. A like success, and, indeed a more striking one, if we consider the circumstances, followed his endeavors with the three non-Catholin states of Europe : England, Russia and Prussia. So anxious was England to enter into diplomatic relations with the Holy See, that, in 1884, she sent a resident agent to the Eternal City, who, though not possessing any official authority, was there to await a time, when favorable circumstances would permit of his appointment as resident Minister at the Vatican. Pius IX, after many negotiations with Russia, was doomed to disappointment, and failed to obtain any satisfactory result. More success haa attended the efforts of his successor. In 1880 pre- liminary negotiations were opened between the Czar and the Pope. Two years later a concordat was signed, which allowed the exiled Bishops of Poland to return from their Siberian prisons ; the present Hierarchy was established ; freedom was again granted to the Catholic Poles, and a day of peace and prosperity began to dawn upon the patient, much tried and suffering church of Poland. But greater patience and more delicate tact were required on the part of the Pope in his dealings with the German Empire : and here too the wise conduct of Leo won the day. Immediately upon his accession to the Pontifical throne, he sent an urgent request to <> -ih* 48 LIFE OF LEO XIII. vl'[ n^ tlie Emperor William, asking a repeal, or, at least, a mitigation of those famous laws against the Catholics of Germany. He took occasion at the same time to draw the attention of the Emperor to the past conduct of those subjects of His Majesty : praising their loyalty and patriotism, and assuring him of their continued fidelity. Nor did he remain satisfied with this one appeal, but continued to reiterate his demand for justice until, in 1882, the government took it into serious consideration. From this resulted, in the fol- lowing year, a modification by the Landtag, of these most obnoxious laws, and a more favorable interpretation, with less rigid enforce- ment, of those remaining unchanged. Besides this, the Catholic Church is daily growing in favor with German statesmen, so that we may hope soon to see those odious laws repealed, and full lib- erty granted once more to the bishops and pastors in the exercise of their duties. These happy results and encouraging prospects are the fruits of the wisdom, tact and talent, joined to the conciliatory spirit of Leo XIII. The world at large pays homage to his abilities. The greatest statesman of the day has given remarkable evidence of his appreciation of them. Germany had taken possession of one of the Caroline Islands, which was claimed by Spain as part of her dominions. Each nation considered her honor and interest at stake. No amicable settlement could be made. Diplomatic negotiations proved fruitless. The situation grew, daily, more complicated, and at one moment war between the two nations seemed imminent. In this crisis Prince Bismarck bethought him- self of the Pope, and proposed him as arbiter in the dispute. The proposal was accepted by Spain : and Leo XIII, after mature con- <> LIFE OF LEO XIII. 49 sideration, issued his Proposal of Arbitration, in which he so well reconciled the claims of both parties to the demands of justice, that his verdict was gladly accepted, and harmony restored. Thus was one of the Prerogatives of the Vicar of the Prince of Peace, Arbiter of Nations, recognized in the reigning Pontiff, and exer- cised by him, as of old by his illustrious predecessors, recognized too by a Protestant government in the full tide of its material and military progress. Our sketch would be incomplete were we to leave unnoticed another feature in the character of Leo XIII, his love of learning. This he has evinced by the efforts he has made to promote the arts and sciences, and by the favor he has shown their votaries. From all nations he has called to positions of dignity, to the Cardinalate, and to the highest ofBces of the Boman Curia, men distinguished no less for profound piety than for high culture. What he has done to foster sacred and philosophical learning, and to promote among clergy and laity a high standard uf culture, we can, in the limits of our sketch, touch upon but lightly. He fii^t directed his attention to the interests of philosophy in Catholic schools, and particularly in Theological Seminaries. But a few months after his elevation to the Papal Throne, he issued his famous Encyclical, Aeterni Patria, in which he directed that the system of St. Thomas of Aquino be made the groundwork of all philosophical teaching ; and adding practice to precept, he immediately proceeded to introduce into all the Boman Colleges and Seminaries under his care the system of teaching he had just laid down. Nor did he stop here. He called to Borne the ablest professors of theology and metaphysics. He founded a <>-* , ^ 50 LIFE OF LEO XIII. Pontifical Academy for the study and propagation of the doc- trines of St. Thomas, and caused a new edition of the Angelic Doctor's works to be printed, sparing no pains to ensure what- ever critical ability and diligent examination could add to its accuracy. He established, moreover, funds for an annual gold medal to be awarded to the most successful competitor on subjects within the scope of the Academy ; and he ordered that the trans- actions of the society be printed and distributed freely among the Seminaries of Italy. He also ordained that extraordinary disputations in metaphysics bo held at the Vatican itself by various Universities in the Eternal City ; on all which occasions he himself, however burdened with care, never fails to lend his interest and his presence. He has also instituted at Rome a special school to form thorough professoi"s of philosophy. His authority, persuasion, and example have not failed of their effect. As a unit, the Catholic M'orld has followed up the movement which he so happily inaugurated; and the traditions of the Fathers with the teachings of the Doctors now form the solid foundation, on which is erected the edifice of Catholic thought. Nor has he slighted the claims of History. The advancement of tliis study, he has entrusted to three Cardinals of marked ability — Hergenrother, Parocchi and Bartolini. Out of more than four thousand large volumes of the Begesta (hitherto sealed to the public), these princes of the Church are to gather, and lay before the world all the authentic acts, decrees, and official papers of the Popes, and the reports of their Legates. Further, they are to publish critical studies of these documents in historical works, and to continue down to our own times the History of the "ih* 62 LIFE OF LEO XIII. medical works, selected by two of Italy's most learned physicians. These books, it is needless to say, are available to the public. The united collections amount to ten thousand volumes, and embrace rare and famous works, both ancient and modern. Nor have the fine arts been neglected. To take but a few instances: ho has restored the Lateran Basilica to its former splendor, adding to it an ApaU, or choir, in keeping with the mag- nificence of the whole. The Basilica of St. Clement has gained new beauty from the new chapel of Sts. Cyrillus and Methodius. He has erected, in the Vatican garden Delia Pigna, a column commemora- tive of the last Ecumenical Council ; he has enriched the Borgia Museum with a rare Ethnographic collection, and the Vatican Museum with the statue of Deua Fidim, a Sabine work of great antiquity and perfectly preserved ; he has restored and enlarged the Studio for the Mosaic works at the Vatican, and he has brought to light, and presented to the admiring study of the Artist world, the treasure of Qohelim, so wonderful in design, so perfect in execution. Leo has been even more solicitous for the instruction of the people at large. He has appointed a commission of Cardinals and Roman Patricians to superintend the education of youth of both sexes in the public schools ; and has generously taken upon himself the expenditures necessary for their support. The same year (1879) he caused twenty-nine additional schools to be opened, and many of those founded by Pius IX were greatly improved. Not a year has since passed without an increase in the number of schools, and despite the weight of many cares, Leo has given these schools his most earnest attention, acquainting himself constantly with their 54 LIFE OF LEO XIII. action, as viewed from their standpoint, have never yet impeached his character, underrated his ability, or doubted the nobility of his intentions. The whole world recognizes in Leo XIII the " Man with heart, head, hand, Like Bome of the simple great ones gone." ■ ' J whole world recognizes in him great natural ability, trained by unwearied industry to that refinement and wisdom which have characterized his life. Raised to the highest dignity which merit can attain, he has applied time and talent to the welfare of all. Viewing his labors as a whole, his special mission has been to calm the storm of prejudice and hatred, so long raging, both amongst peoples and governments, against the Pacacy, by three well defined methods. First, he has elevated the standard of culture among the clergy ; he has, in the next place, clearly shown that true civilization and the new wonders of science, not only are not hostile to the Church's teaching, but are encouraged and developed by her endeavors ; and, lastly, he has convinced the rulers of nations that the spirit of the Catholic body far from being a hind- rince is the staunchest support to civil sovereignty. In person, Leo XIII, commands respect and devotednesd. Tall and of slender build, his mien is striking and majestic ; and there is in his carriage a graciousness which eminently befits him. His manners are characterized by dignity, straightforwardness and benevolence. His eyes kindly in expression and undimmed by years, seem to penetrate the thoughts and feelings of those with whom he speaks. His conversation is fluent and to the point. In addition to his native tongue, he speaks, it may be added, i^ -* AN. CHRIST. MDCCCLXXXI. IN HERCVLANVM ET COKSTANTIVM EPISCOPOS MARTYRES Ibijmnl IjEONIS XIII p. M, TESTES ANIMI OBSEQVIIQVE SVJ ^y- ■<>- Ibiemns OF POPE LEO XIII Hu Ibonor c# HERCULANUS AND CONSTANTIUS MAETYR-BISUOPS 1881 copatum ea tempestate gerebat, cum Gothorum copiae Peru- siam obaiderent. Civitate capta, capite caesu^ est. Demortui corpus extra muros proiectn.ru humaniores quidam viri honesta sepultura aflfecerunt. Quod quadraginta post diebus cum re- duces in urbcm cives effodissent, in aede Petri Principis Apo- stolorum sanctiore loco composituri, integrum atque omni parte incorruptura invenerunt, sic praeterea conglutiuata ad coUum cervice, ut vestigia incisionis nulla apparerent.* Hunc Peru- sini Patronum caelestem salutarem venerantur et colunt; cuius honori aedem a solo aedificatam maiorum pietas dedlcavit. > Ex lib. ni. Dial. S. Gregorii MagnL -<>- <> i>- X HE saintly Herculanus was Bishop of Perugia when it was besieged by the Goths. On the capture of the city, he was beheaded and his body thrown without the walls, where it was buried by some charitpble persons. Forty days later, when the citizens, on their return, disinterred his remains to place them in the church of St. Peter, Prince of the Apostles, they found the body entire and incorrupt. The head, moreover, was re- united to the trunk so that no traces of the decapitation were visible.' Perugia venerates St. Herculanus as its patron and heavenly protector, and has eiected a church, dedicated to his name. » Dial. St. Greg. B. IIL -i>- ■ St Iberculanue. XVTELA praesens patriae Salve, Herculane : filiis Adsis, precamur, annuo Qui te celebrant cantico. Furens Getharum ab algidia Devectus oris Totila, Turres Perusi et moenia Hoste obsidebat barbaro. lamque ingruebat arcibus Clades suprema: angustiis Urbs pressa ubique: civium Ubique luctus personal. At pastor invictus vigil Stas, Herculane; et anxio Pavore fracta pectora Metu et soluta roboras. - St. I5crculanu0. JiLaIL, Herculanus, champion brave, Still prompt our fatherland to save, Thy children bless, as in their verse Each year thy glories they rehearse. Down from far Gothland's icy coasts Sweep Totila's resistless hosts, He dooms Perugia's walb and towers, And girds her round with ruthless powers. Her ramparts totter to their fall And ruin grimly broods o'er all; The town is straitened everywhere And dismal wailings rend the air. But Herculanus watch doth hold; Undaunted shepherd, o'er his fold In trembling frames new strength instils And faltering breasts with courage fills. -<^ -<>• ■■ m •^) •ih» Desaevientis Totilae lussu, sub ictum cuspidis Procumbis insons victima, Auctus corona martyrum. Et nunc beata caelitum Regnans in aula, patriam Pastor, Patrouus, et Parens Felix bonusque sospitas. Laetare Etrusca civitas' Tanta refulgens gloria; Attolle centum gestiens Caput decorum turribus. Novo impetita proelio Ausus repellas impios, Et usque fac renideas Fide Herculani pulcrior. * Huius spatium obsidionis historici recentiores baud longius septem men- sibuB producunt. Quam sententiam nee affirmare, nee refelle e in animo est. * Perusia, veteri italicarum regionum descriptione, Etruriae finibus contine- batur, cum Etruscorum gens Tyrrheno mari et Apenino, Macra et Tiberi fluTiiB terminaretur. * Fortli comes fiorco Totila's command : You fall beneath the headsman's hand. O stainless victim ! your renown Is brightened by the martyr's crown. And now, while in those courts you reign Of bliss-crowned souls, our country deign, O Pastor, Patron, Father, still To speed to fortune, guard from ill, Etruria's pride, fair city, clad^ With glory's vesture, Oh ! be glad ; Lift high your brows, whose diadem A hundred circling turrets gem. "When other foes their onset make, Be brave 1 their impious fury break. Y"ur Patron's faith still light your way, C w lovelier yet beneath its ray. * Recent li oriana are of opinion that the siege did not last over seven montlis. This is the phice neither to confirm, nor gainsay their statement. * According to tlie ancient geography of Italy, Perugia was within the limits of Etruria, wlien the boundaries of the latter were tho Tyrrhene Sea and the Apennines, the Macra and Tiber rivers. r^^fwrp- i 4 -<>- c< /ONSTANTIVS Peruslae christianis parentibus natus, virtute aetatem antegressus, Episcopus patriae suae factus est. Is propter studium christiani nominis niulta dictu gravia, perpessu aspera invicto animo pertulit. Nam primum pugnis contundi iussus, deinde in thermis includi septuplo vehementius accensis; sed' aquis Dei nutu repente tepefactis, e summo discrimine evasit incolumis. Mox prunarum cruciatu fortissiiue perfunctus, con- jicitur in custodiam: unde christianorum opera extractum satel- lites imperatorii comprehendunt, et vi vulnerum prope conficiunt. Continuo tamen ille divinitus convaluit : tunc Assisium in carce- rem rapitur. Paullo post illinc eductus, cum quamlibet camifici- nam subire mallet, quam a proposito disseminandae catholicae religionis desistere, idcii'co in trivio apud Fulginium nobile martyrium fecit, Marco Aurelio Vero Imperatore, Sotero Pontifice maximo. Sacrum eius corpus inhumatum proiectum Levianus, magna pietate vir, domo Fulginio, ab Angelo in somnis admonitus, venerabundus feretro composuit. Quod cum Perusiam deducere- tur, ea res miraculo fuit, quod sacrarum reliquiarura vectores repente lumen oculorum recepere. Martyrem fortissinuim Peru- sinl summa religione coluut, eiusque memoriam, templo extructo, cum^crarunt. -<^ - — ■ -(>- •-T POEMS OF LEO XIII. 76 !7~* But all the elemental strife, And sky with clouds of pregnant black, Stays not the civic joy so rife, Nor holds the yearly pageant back. Night falls upon the town: see how The ways are seething with the throng ! And look ! there on the hill's veiled brow A thousand bonfires leap along ; ' -» f Then to the city walls advance With stately tread and suppliant eyes, Long lines of maids, with bated glance. Matrons, strong sir^s, and elders wise. And when they reach the Martyr's shrine. Where brightly blazing tapers flare. The joyous throng in serried line Beseech the Martyr's potent care: II " Constantius, guardian, heavenly sire. Thy little ones Oh ! deign to bless ! " And kindling with their love's chaste fire Warm kisses on his tomb tHIy press. i •» f 1 ) V 1 ! lesu, tibi sit gloria, Qui das triumphura Martyri, Cum Patre ct alrao Spiritu In saeculorum saecula. n. JTAKDITYR templumj'facibus rcnulei: Ara Constauti : celebrate noracn Dulce Pastoris, inemoresque fastos Dicite cautu. I Impios ritus et inane fulmen Bisit indignans lovis et Quirini; Obtulit ferro iuveniie pectus, Obtulit igni. i ft:; ■< -<>- Jcsu, the Martyr's strength, to Thee, The Father, and the Paraclete, Be glory for eternity, O Triune God, all Infinite. II. _LjO I the temple is open : Constantius' shrine Glows bright within from the torches' flame: Come, singers, with filial voices twine A wreath of song to your Patron's name : Blend choric lays with prayers. All their impious rites and Jove's bolts inane. And the various gods whom the Pagans name He laughs to scorn: and, unrecking the pain, To the sword's keen point and the biting flame His youthful breast he bares. xtibus eiTor, -en i>- The baths, made hot with a roaring firo, Seethe fiercely and fast, and the breathless crowd Still closer press as the flames mount higher: "Plunge the stubborn knave," shrieks the Praetor loud, "In yonder bubbling wave!" They plunge him in : but as fainting flowers A cool font freshens with grateful dews, So the boiling bath his body dowers With a strength that quivers through all his thews, And balmy coolness gave. Thereupon dumb fear smote the gaping throng: But the Praetor, foiled, in a frenzy cries To his caitiff slaves : " With manacles strong Let the man be bound most cautious wise. And thrust in dungeon deep ! " Chains quell him not: but with fearless voice He rings Faith's truth in his gaolers* ears: They listen, they yield, and their hearts rejoice That the cloud is scattered that held them for years In error's numbing sleep. - • ■i -<> HO <)- LEONI8 XIII OARMINA. Corpus in limo iacet interemptum : At pius forti celebrandus ausu ** Luce pallenti vigilans ad umbram Carceris, inia Septa pervadit Leviaiuis; artus Colligit sparsos; caput ense truncom Bite componens fovet, et beata Coudit in urua. • •' More passionate still swells the tynuit's brea.st: The pure young flesh feels the branding rod, And the sword's keen gash : while the feet that pressed So firm on the way to the Throne of God Hard massy fetters cut. But his wrath not yet does the tyrant bate: To his gods contemned and their vengeful ire He dooms the youth till his bloody fate, Cut, and racked, and torn, with torture dire, The Furies' hate may glut. Lo! at last,'done to death, cold and stark he lies: Even enrth's warm clod may not cover his bones; But when tM/11ight'.s grey is drawn o'er the skies, Levian watchful comes where the wall's grim stones Frown down like sentries stern. t '■ Be his noble deed through the wide world spread ! Each torn bruised limb, with such reverent grace Does he gather up, and the sword-gashed head : Then /his hands, all gently, the relics place Tu seemly funeral urn. <> Grande portentum! sacra membra in urbem Quattuor latis humeris reportant Lucis expertes, i ubi toque visas Muuere gaudcnt. Redditur Pastor patriae, refiilgens Aureis vittis et honore palmae, Septus aeterna superum corona Redditur heros. ,1 Dive, quem templis veneramur Urabris, Umbriae fines placido revisens Lumiuc, exopiata reduc opiraae Gaudia pacis. Dive, Pastorem tua in urbe quondam Infula cinctum, socium et laborum, Quem pius tutum per iter superna Luce rcgebas. ■ ^ : 84 LEONI8 XIII OARMINA. Nunc Petri cymbam tumidum per aequor Ducere, et pugnae per acuta cernis Si)e bona certaque levare in altos Lumina niontes. Possit O tandem, domitis procellis, Visere optatas LEO victor eras; Occupet tandem vaga cymba portum Sospite cursu. - ^y- ^H POEM8 OF LEO XIII. 86 Now, as Peter's bark through the rising sea He guides, and in war waged 'gainst the wrong, Lifts his eyes to the hills of eternity, With a hope that is sure and a hope that is strong, God's help to his oppressed. May he, LEO, behold, when the storms are laid. As a victor, at length the longed-for shore; And the wandering bark, safe anchorage made, May it, too, be brought through the tempest's roar To Grod-calmed port of rest. ~^y- •^^ ' This liyran was written for the Saint's feast. * The Solemnity in memory of St. Constantius occurs on the 29th of January. * it le a very old custom at Perugia to have a grand procession every year out- side the walls, on the evening of the Vigil of the Feast of Saint Constantius, when the men march and bear offerings. This function is known as the " Festival of Lights" {LaFcsta dei Lumi), as the whole town is lit with torches and tapers and joyous bonfires blaze tlirough all the suburbs the night through. Many beautiful decrees in regard to this festival have been passed by the city. <> I ; I I -<> <} ■^ Bb IDIncentlvm pavanivm c S. 1 AN. MDOCCXXII. JN OMINE, Vincenti, quo tu, I'avane, vocaris Parvulus atque infaiis Peccius ipse vocor.' Quas es virtutes magna?, Pavaue, sequutus O utiuam possem Peccius ipse sequi. ^ Auctori ad sacrnm baptisma imposita fnerant nonina loachimo, Vincentio, Raphael!. Aloisio. Bed mater eius Vincentium appellari nialuit ob honorem Vincentii Ferrerii, cuius extitit cultrix eximia. Quod ille nomen serius cum loacLiiuo commutavit. ^>- -(>-* Zo tDlncent jDavanl, S. 3. 1822. _LN cliildkood's liour I joyed to claim Aa mine, O Vincent, tliy dear name;* Ah ! could I claim not name alone. But virtue great a?, thou hast shown I * In baptism, the autlior received the names of Joachim, Vincent, Raphael and Aloysius. His mother, through her devotion to St. Vincent Ferrer, cjalled him Vincent ; but his own choice in later years was Joachim. (^ <^ Be InvaletvMnc Sva. AN. MDCCCXXX. Jr VBER bis denos^ loachim, vix crescis in annos; Morborum heu quanta vi '"'scr obruerisl luverit hos fando tristcs memor.ae dolores, Et vitae aeruranas dicere carminibiis. Node vigil, tarda componis membra quiete, Viribus effoetis esca nee ulla tuum Cruda levat stomachum; depresso lumino ocelli Caligant; ictum saepe doloro caput. Mox gelida arentes misere depascitur artus Febris edax, mox et torrida discruciaf. lam macJes vultu apparet, iam pectus anhelum est; Deficis en toto corpore languidulus. t ih* 0n b!0 m Ibealtb. 1830. V-^ HAPLESS Joachim I diseases' prey, Ere twice ten summers doomed to slow decay I Thy cruel griefs in rhymes shall I relate, And mourn, alas! thy too unhappy fate. Dull, dreary nights and tardy slumbers thine; Sleep flees tlie couch on which thy limbs recline. Kind nurture seems not potent to restore Thy strength ; thy sunken eye is clouded o'er j And throbs thy weary head; thy frame by turns Lies chilled by fever's stroke, now fiercely burns. Wan are thy cheeks, and weak thy panting breast By crushing aches eacli languid limb oppressed. <^ <>^ ^> T 90 l^ LEONI8 XIII OARMINA. Quid tibi blandiris, longos quid prospicis annos? Atropos horreudura mortis adurget iter. Tunc ego : " non trepida frangar formidiue : mortem, Dum properat, fortis laetus et opperiar. Non me labentis pertentant gaudia vitae, Aeternis inhians nil peritura moror. Attiugens patriara, felix erit advena, felix Si valet ad portum ducere uauta ratem." — ^-« t. ■ POEMS OF LEO XIII. 91 Why cling to life, why vainly shun thy doom, While wasting illness ui^.s to the tomb? Then I : shrink not my heart though dread my fate, Death's hastening footsteps joyful I await. No fleeting pleasures can my soul allure, A land I seek whose joys shall e'er endure. Gladly the wanderer hails his native land, Gladly the sailor sees the port at hand. -<>■ — ^ J • - ~^-* -(>- ■i^ Zhc 1?epul0e of IDIce/ JJ ACE aglow with tricking art, Eyes that wanton glances dart, 'Vot'ress of the Cyprian Queens Fair without and foul within, On what ruin dost thou start? Well is thy treason known I On thv lips, pernicious breath. In thy heart is horrid death ; Temptress unmasked, begone I * Roger A. C, a friend and feliow-stndent of the author's, repels the advances of a profligate woman. r K>~ -^7"* IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) // ^/ '/. 4is %<> '/ % Pliotographic Sciences Corporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 (716) 872-4503 ///■>^ ///// s .^O y ZTbc fountain/ From Pandolfo's lofty crest, Erst my sunny mountain home, Noiseless, knowing not to rest. Joyous to the vale I come. Princely Pecci bade me comej He who first in purple clad, Honor-crowned of sacred Rome, Made his native valley glad. Dark my way beneath the fell, Half my life in lead compressed ; Still I bid my home farewell, Come I must at his behest. All unlooked-for, too, nor less Welcome for the gifts I bear — Beauty, cleanness, healthfulness, Household blessings sweet and fair. <>■ ■(>-• ? -<> ■<> i . I • I i ■ 1. I <> De Se 1Fp0O. AN. MDCCCLXXV. Vi^VAM flore in primo felix, quam laeta Lepinis. Orta jugis, patrio sub lare, vita fuit ! ' Altrix te puerum Vetulonia suscipit ulnis, Atque in Loyolaea excolit aede pium.^ Mutia dein Bomae tenuere paiatia; doctis Florentem studiis Academia tenet ;^ Tempore quo, memini&se juvat, praedivite vena Manera et Patrum nobilis ilia cohors Mentem alit, et puro laticra de fonte recludens, Te Sophiae atque Dei scita verenda docet.* ■-ih* :^. Sed maiora manent: en chrisraatis auctus houore Pontificis nutu Belgica rcgna petis, Atque tenes, adserturus sanctissiraa Petri, Romanae et fidei credita iura tibi.' -(>— -()- m <^ •-B- <}- POEM8 OF LEO XIII. 101 Rome saw thee with Christ's priesthood crowned: Then round thy brow she also saw, Reward to hardy toil decreed, The laurels of the Law. What counsel wise, what generous aid A prince in Rome's bright purple lent To shape thy manhood's young emprise! — Sala, the good and eloquent' — Sweet Naples then, and Benevent Are subject to thy goodly rule: In "Tower-town" glad, thy heart and brain The soulful Umbrian school.* But graver, nobler duties yet The Pontiflf's will assigns, When on thy brow the chrism left Its consecrating lines. r Entrusted to thy watchful care, Rome's holy Faith and Peter's Right» As Nuncio to the Belgian Court, Thy guardian zeal excite.^ — (H >l^ , I « ^)- t 102 LEONI8 XIII OARMINA. Bedditus at patriae, brumali e littore jusflus Ausoniae laetas et remeare plagas; Umbros en iterum' fines, urbemque revisis, Quam tibi divino flamine sponsat amor. lure sacro imperitas ter denos amplius annos; Et pleno saturas ubere Pastor oves." Romano inoedis Princeps spectandus in ostro/° Belgarumque equitum torquis honors nites.^ Te pia turba, Deo pubes devota, Saoerdos Obsequiis oertant demeroisse suis. Verum quid fluxos memoras, quid prodis honores? Una hominem virtus ditat et una beat. <> ■■ *<> : -(> Scilicet banc unam, aevo iara iabente, sequaris, Ad Superos tutum quae tibi pandat iter. Aetema donee compostus pace quiescas, Sidereae ingrcssus regua benta dumus. Ah I miserans adait Deus eventusque secundet: Aspiret votis Virgo beuigna tuis.* > Ortus Carpineti die 2 Martii a. 1810 ex coniugibus Ludovico Peccio et Anna Prosperia, ad octavum aetatis annum in domo paterna moratur. Oarpinetum est oppidum in Volscis prope Signiam in sinu montium quos Lepinoa vocant. ' A. 1818 cum Josepho fratre Viterbium mittitur, et Sodalibus e Societate lesu institnendus traditur. *-() — -^ POEMS OF LEO XIII 105 This make thine own, aiul this ah)n(! : Then, wlicn earth's hours their course complete, A path secure to heaven's fair courts Shall open to thy feet. Thus in that slumber sunk at length, Whose waking is eternity, Their home beyond the starry skies The saints will share with thee. Ah I may thy God in pity deign To give thy days that hanjiy end : May Christ's dear Mother, Virgin mild. Thy toil and aims befriend. ^ The author was bom on the 2nd of March, 1810, at Carpineto. His parents were Louis Pecci and Anna Prosperi, with whom the little Gioacchino lived until tlie eighth year of liis age. Carpineto, a town of the ancient Volsci, near Signia in Central Italy, is situated in a valley of the mountains known as the Lepine. * In 1818, he and liis brother Joseph were sent to Viterbo to receive their edu- cation at the hands of the Jesuit Fathers in that city. ih^ <^ 106 LEONI8 XIII OARMINA. ^1 ' ' I ' Defuncta matre a. 1824, apud avunculum Romae diversatur in palatio Marchionum Muti, ac deinde in Academia Nobilium Ecclesiasticorum. * P. Franciscus Manera S. I., vir ingenio et doctrina praesUntissimus, aliique Patres clarissimi, quos in Lyceo Gregoriano Philosophiae et Theologiae magistros habuit, Andreas Carafa, I. B. Pianciani, Antonius Ferrarini, loannes Perrone, loseph Rizzi, Joannes Curi, Antonius Kohlmann, etc. * Joseph Antonius Sala Cardinalis peculiari benevolentia adolescentem com- plectitur, et sapientibus monitis et eonsiliis plurimum juvat. * Laurea doctorali insignitus, post susceptum sacerdotium, a Gregorio XVI. P. M. inter antistites urbanos domus Pontificalis adsciscitur a. 1837, ac postea pro- vinciarum Beneventanae et Perusinae gubemator constituitur. ^ In sacro Clonsistorio, habito die 27 Januarii a. 1843, Archiepiscopus Damia- tensis eligitur, et Apostolicae Sedis Nuntius ad Belgas mittitur. * Perusia a turribus, quibus muniebatur, dicta est Turrena. ' A. 1846 a Gregorio XVI. P. M., in sacro Consistorio die 19 Januarii habito, ad Sedem Perusinam provehitur. *•> A. 1853, in sacro Ck>nsistorio habito die 19 Decembris, a Pio IX. P. M., S. R. E. Presbyter Cardinalis renuntiatur titulo S. Clirysogoni. ^^Belgica Legatione perfunctus, a Leopoldo I. Belgaruiu Rege inter equites torquatos Ordinis Leopoldiani adlectus est. •t <)- — (^ *-(>" -(H •-(>- -(>- 1! GERTKVDI . STERBINIAE VIEGINI . SALESIANAE INNOCENTISSIMAE QVAE YTI . CIIRISTO . lESV • PLACEEET ASPERA • MVLTA • FOBTJTER • TVLIT EADEM EIGIDIORVM . ALVMNA • ET • CVLTRIX • VIRTVTVM MVNEEIBVS • LABOEIBVS • QVE • SANCTE • PERFVNCTA MATVEA • GAELO LAETA • LIBENS IN • PACE • CHRISTI • CONQVIEVIT III . NON. . FEBE. • AN. • 3IDCCCLXXIII ANNOS • NATA • XIJII • H[ • I • D • XXVI IVLIVS • FEATER SOEOEI • INCOMPAEABILI SE • 8V0S • QVE • COMMENDAT -(>- " yi) * -^-. ^ m MEMORY OF GERTRUDE STERBINI, NUN OP THE VISITATION OBDEB, WHO IN HER PURE AND SAINTLY LIFE, FOR HER DEAR SAVIOUR's LOVE BORE MANY A HARDSHIP BRAVELY: UNTIL PERFECT IN ALL HOLINESS, HER DUTY FAITHFULLY DONE, EIPE FOR PARADISE, SHE ENTERED INTO THE PEACE OP CHRIST, WITH GLAD REJOICING, ON THE 3rd OF FEBRUARY, 1873, AGED 43 YEARS, 1 MONTH, 26 DAYS; TO HER, HIS SISTER BEYOND COMPARE, HER BROTHER JULIUS COMMENDS HIMSELF AND HIS. <>- ! W I -<> 110 LEONIS XIII CARMINA. GrERTRVDES, O sacra Deo castissima virgo, Grata, precor, Ivli vota dolentis habe. Fortunata soror, Superum quae vesceris aura, Nostri sollicitam te vetus urat amor. E caelo memor usque tuis suocurrere discas, Infensisque leves auxia corda malis. Atque olim Ersiliam, natos, dulcesque parentes, Meque tibi in patria iuugat adauctus amor. <)- ~\ ) * _L/EAR Gertrude, bride devoted of the Lamb, If still there be of earthly love a care In thine own heights of Heaven's blessed calm, Sister, give ear to mourning Julius' prayer. Mindful of thine, with aid in dark hours come, With hope to anxious hearts; until with thee My babe, Ersiiia, our sweet parents, home And I, in larger love, shall reunited be. <> - ■■ ^ Zo tbe Same* Seething is the deep and crested With the foam of angry waves, As the night steals o'er the heavens From its silent, sunless caves. Shattered by the storm and drifting, Drifting on the maddened tide. Onward drives the bark dismantled To the whirlpool deep and wide; Onward, as we wait and tremble Breathless with a nameless fear, Death before us looming grimly From the yawning sea-gulf near. * Julius Sterbini implores the heavenly influence of liis sifter Gertrude. He represents his own needs and lier kindly intervention by the allegory of a temiiest-beaten ship that is rescued. k I I f in '■ ^ ^y v^UM esset Perusinorum Episcopus, excellentes aliquo genere sacerdotes carminibus laudare, item ex sacris virginibus optimas quasque celebrare consueverat. Carmiuiuu quoddaiu veluti speci- men hoc loco proponitur. y* <>^ <>• J.T was an amiable practice of the author's, when Bishop of Perugia, to commend in verse some of his priests who distin- guished themselves by peculiar merit, and also some of the religieuses of his diocese who were of eminent virtue and ability. Several pieces are here presented as specimens of hia poetry in this vein. *~\ / ■ o- 1n IRlcoIavm pomplUvnt* Jr ASTOR ad exemplum, Pnineti in dulcibos arviS; Suffecit tenero pascua laeta gregi. Bector ad exemplum, fingenda puba peritus Florere banc studiis, banc iter atterere, Se duoe, virtutis docuit: laus inde superstes, Famaque Pompilium non peritura manet •* 1 -- j\. MODEL shepherd on Prugneto's slopes Thy tender flock to pleasant pasture leading; A model guide, to shape youth's plastic hopes To ends most high through love's ingenious pleading; Teaching the mind to bud with wisdom's flower, Training the heart to be sweet virtue's shrine: This praise is thine, not fleeting with the hour, But through all time, Pompilius, this is thine. ^ Nicholas Pompilius, a man of Rolid virtues and great prudence, after filling for a long time the post of parish-priest at Prugneto moat exemplarily, was made s Canon in the Cathedral of Perugia, and appointed Superior of the ^eminarj. ih* <^ -<>- : Hit iPetrvm penna.* Jj ORTVNATE senex, dulcis dura vita maneret Te candore animi, te pietate, fide Aequabat nemo; laetis in rebus, in arctis Delicium populi tu, bone pastor, eras. In Serapblnvm paraMslvm.* V^VAE subiecta ocuHs, vera est pastoris imago Divae Helcnes dulci pabulo alentis oves. Quae patria et nomen fuerit si forte requiras, Verius hoc referet picta tabella tihi. Nam patriam dicet Paradisi iu sede beatam, Adscriptumque choris uoiueu iu augelicis. * Seraphinus Paradisi, parochns in castro 8. Relenes inteprer vitae et carus ubique modestia sua. -<>- - Zo Serafino iparaM^l/ Behold a faithful portrait of St. Plelen's priest Who reapeth lush green grasses that his lambs may feast. Should'st haply ask, what name he hath, where dwelleth he. This painted tablet shall more truly tell it thee. It saith: his fatherland is Paradise, his name The glowing Seraphim as theirs proclaim. ■O- / -i> * Serafino Paradisi, pastor at Castello dl S. Elena, wns a man of irreproachablo life, and everywhere beloved for his modesty. V / * / 1' :j< -<> *t lln Sanctcm pctrasstnivm.* jLXiELLIGIO et Pietas titulum inscripsere sepulchro Effusae in lacrimas hunc, Petracine, tuo: "Curio bis denis pius et mitissimus annis Parvura sollicito pavit amore gregem. In plebem miserans hie prodigus aeris egenam MirumI vel censu paupere fudit opes." <> ^ Sanctes Petrazzinius, parochus Ecclesiae Ramatiensis, pins in Deum, benignus in egenos, amorem omnium virtute promeruit. <> ■i^ TTo Santc jpctrajjlnl* J.N sorrow, Sante, faith and love Have writ these words thy grave above: — "This Shepherd loved his sheep, and fed His flock with eucharistic bread. And aye the needy of his fold • Were heard — though poor he lavished gold." * Sante Petrazzini, pariBh-priest of Bamazzano, by his piety, his kindness to the poor and every other virtue, won for himself universal love and esteem. ■ih ^y- <>- •» •^ In Ibermelinbam fl>onte0percIIi ANTISTITAM SACRARVM VIRGINVM CISTERCIENSIVM.^ J. ROGENIE illustris, verae et virtutis alumna Virgo, Hermelinda et nomine, sacra Dcoj Coenobii custos vigil et fidissima, mater Provida consilio, propositique tenax. <^ ^ Magistra virginum Cisterciensinm ad Sanctae lulianae per annos xxv, cari- tatis prudentiaeque laude insi«:nis. Obiit die iii. lulii a. mccclxxii. •<)- \ • OJ ■<>■ Zo l)ermelln^ nDonteepcrelli ABBESS OF ST. JULIANA.* XJ NFADING flower of noble race, Ennobling name with, virtues' grace, The Lord's own handmaid, Hermelind: The cloister felt thy guardian hand, Thy mother's heart that wisely planned With holy aim, with steadfast mind. <>- * She was Superioress of the Cistercian Nuns of St. Juliana for twenty-five years, and was distinguished for her charity and prudence. Her happy death occurred on the 3d of July, 1872. <> <>^ IM Hn IRodalinbam Baetlant ANTISTITAM COENOBII AD S. CATHARINAE.* V IRTVTES celebrare tuas, praeclaraque gesta Quis valeat, vol quod par erit ellogium ? Ellogiiim main's: sacra inter septa senescia Spectanda exemplis et pietate gravis, ! Acclamant matrem concordi voce sorores, Tu dux, tuque illis provida mater eras. i Ereptam terris te matrem nunc quoque dicunt: Matrem cum lacrimis in sua vota vocaut. ■<> ^ Magisterium coenobii tres et triginta nnnos contlnuos gessit. Ob singularcm animi bonitatem sacrae virgines earn familiariter appellare consueverant — La nostra buona mamma — Obiit die xxvi. Decembris an. mdccclxxi. ' She presided over this monastery for thirty-three years, and her rule was so gentle that the sisters gave her no other name than that of " Our good mamma." She died on the 26th of December, 1871. i )ri -<^ ■4 Bloidivm 'RoteUi Can* OB LAVDATIONEH IN PARENTALIBV8 OABMELI PASCVCCI EP. PTOLEMAIDEN. HABITAM. ^I iucunda tibi mea vox, excudere et acri Forte tuo igniculos, docte Rotelle, novos Si potis ingenio ; meritae cape munera laudis Et cape Pastoris praescia vota tui. Cabmelvm immiti celebras dum funere ademptum, Yim morbi infandam dum plus illacrimas, ■■ ^Kifsm -(> -(^ 132 LEONI8 XIII OARMINA. Spectandumquc refers doctrinae foenore multo, lusignem ineritis vt pietate virum, Maiestatc gravem et vultum, dum rite litanti Omaret niveas infula sacra comas; Atque itidem studia et mores animumque benignum, Os et suave senis, flexile et ingenium; Sic graphioe pingis divina rhetoris arte, lUo ut sit praesul nullus amabilior: Ora immota tenens, arrectaque aure loquentem Te quisque admiraus suspicit atque stupet. Ipse sed in primis blanda dulcedine tangor, Ezsultoque animis laeluo, d usque memor, ■<)- + 4 POEMS or LEO XIII. 188 Lol while you paint with wealth of art, Matchless merits, matchless mind, Praise the virtues of the heart, Looks wherein there sat enshrined Grace, majesty with grace combined. — Chief, when with hallowed fillet dighty And raitre <} -<>- -<)- POEMS OF LEO XIII. 135 Now bringing back the gladsome time Of blushing boyhood's happy prime, When life's fresh springtide zephyrs blew Into thy cheeks their roseate hue; When first I saw those flashing eyes, Living stars of purest ray Kindling in their parent skies, With a face like morn in May And elfish limbs ne'er tired of play. Yes, memory fond recalls again The very wish I breathed thee then: " Spring up, bright boy ! to manhood's prime : On, onward speed to deeds sublime, Aloft by native genius borne. May the heaven-descended Maid Thee with Phoebus' gifts adorn — Bays, whose bright Pierian braid Was plucked the poet's brow to shade. Let Eloquence, whose forceful art Hath power to sway the human heart, With arduous Mathematics claim Alliance jealous with thy name. -(>- ■<>- 4 136 LEONI8 XIII OARMINA. .f i f i- ! Post, ubi vernantes maturior egeris annos, Fleno haustu Sophiae sacra fluenta hibaa. n Qua duce, dura pati, moliri fortia discas Taugere et excelso vertice summa poll <> ^> And when thy youth its bloom has slied, Ailtl the lights of manhood shine, Seek the sacred fountain-head Flowing fast by Wisdom's shrine, Still thirsting quaff the draught divine; Oh ! learn from Wisdom lessons rare : Learn to struggle and to bear. Learn undying deeds to dare, Learn from lowly earth to rise, And touch with towering crest the skies." - • t< I AD llcremiam Brvnelll RHETOREM. JlJVM Senae Adriacis, Cancri sub sidere, in undis Mersor, raenilei mulcot et aura freti, Me salvere iubes, et pi^nus mittis amoris, Vota, adfert loAcniM quae mihi sacra dies. Quae sit par dono, dulci iucunda poetae, Quae, Brunelli, aniiuo gratia digna tuo? Carmina carminibus, votis et vota rependam : Te bonus incolumem sospitet usque Dens. <}- "(H -<>- ►4 -<>^ Zo Sercmlab BrunelU, PROFESSOR OF RHETORIC O'ER Adriatic waters as I go 'Neath starry Crab, while soft sea breezes blow, Fair greeting sendest thou ; this festal day Joachim brings thy loving tribute-lay. What meed, dear poet, can thy gifts requite? Since naught of mine can match thy love's behight. Rhymes answer Rhymes, let vows thy vows repay May bounteous God e'er guard and guide thy way. i <> --()- 1 1 Bamnatorvm a^ flnferoe LAMENTABILIS VOX. "O si daretur hora!" _£a.VDITVS stygiis gemitus resonate sub antris, — O detiir miseris hinc procul hora brevis. — Quid facerent? Imo elicerent e corde dolorem, Admissum et scelus abstergeret hora brevis. 4 -f <>- 4 ^ Z\)c Doleful Ct^ of tbe Damned "Oh, for an hour's reprieve ieve ! " ^Within the Stygian caves is heard a piercing wail, Oh, for one hour's reprieve, far from this pool of bale! What would be done? From out the heart repentant teen Would spring: that hour from stain of sin would leave it clean. -®-« + \ /* r i. - -(^ Is there no end? Come, from thy torpor start; Come, shake the burning fever from thy heart. <> <> 144 LEONI8 XIII OARMINA. Cunctaris, veteresqne amens sectaris amorea? lain spos heu misero nulla salutis adest. Praedam inhians rabidus lateri stat demon, amara Te mors, te viudex ^uminis ira mauet. *Virum Perusinum intellige, qnem ad sanitatem revocare Episcopus diu studuit. l^ -(>- .1 POEMS OF LEO XIII. 14.') Dost shrink thy veteran vices to forswear? Boomed man ! there's naught to stay thy sheer dospuir. Grim Deatli and fierce Perdition summon thee, Tlie avengers dire of outraged Deity. diu * A gentleman of Perugia whom the Bishop made frequent efiorts to reclaim from dissolute habits. <>■ ■ih- I ♦ 'li I ' 11 'mi'iii Brd pboto^rapbica. ExPRESSA solis spicule Nitens imago, quam bene Frontis decus, vim luminum Refers, et oris gratiam. O mira virtus ingeni Novumque monstrum! Imaginem l^aturae Apelles aemulus Non pulehriorem pingeret. -^ MM ■<>^ <^n a ipboto0rapb. SuxN-WROUGHT image! All may see Bright aud beaming writ in thee Gracious features, thought-crowned brow, Eyes with living light aglow. Modern wit is master here: Not Appelles, Nature's peer, Could with truer pencil trace Thy imlabored, clear-cut e^race. ■iy <>- i <)- Ub praeL Qvtcl LUSUS POETICUS. j\lLULCERE iramites cithara, deduccre cantn, Orpheu, fama refert te potuisse feras. Pristina num virtus renovat portenta? nejwtes Gloria sollicitat nuiuquid avita tuos? Crediderim: Samut visus novus Orpheus oris Elicere arguta dulce melos cytliara. Laevaque ab Adriaca advolitaus regione columba Nostro, lieu, cum pullis iu laro nidificat. "<>- -(H ■Ml ■<>- 4 ^h ZCo flDonstanor ®rfel* EPIGRAM. * Orpheus, in days of old, they say Such strains from thy sweet lyre would well That beasts, in haste from brake and fell Followed, enravished by thy lay. Can power like this its portants show In sons of thine who sing to-day? Yea, sooth, for wields a kindred sway A Samuian Orpheus whom I know. And now from Adriatic shore, With baleful omen fluttering here A Dove — alas! its brood to rear. Builds a trim nest above our door. * Mons. Orfei, the author's predecessor in the Government of Benevento, hud given up a part of the Apostolic Paluce, called the Castle, to the President of the Tribunal, the barrister Palomba who had come from Loretto. It may further be noted for tlie benefit of the English reader, that the point of the epigram lies in the name of Palomba which is the Italian for a wild-dove. <> I 2)e Se lp0O/ O USTITIAM colui : certamina longa, laboree, Ludibria, insidias, aspera quaeque tuli. At fidei vindex non fleeter : pro grege Christi Dulce pati, ipsoque in caroere dulce mori. * Inscriptio effigiei suae apposite a Pontifice Maximo Leone XITT. -(H Wnm^^i^H'^^m^^mm^.^.^Z^^^ 4 ®n Ibimsclt* Justice I sought; and toil and lengthened strife And taunts and wiles and every hardship, life Have burdened : I Faith's champion do not bend ; For Christ's flock sweet the pain, sweet— life in bonds to end. 1 An Inscription written on a portrai* of himself by Leo XHI. <>- -(^ .z\-DMISSUS nuper est ad Pontificem Maximum Lconem XIII quidam uobili gcncre adolescens, decimum sextum aetatis annum vix supergressus : idemque macilento ore, et extenuatis yiribuB. Quod cum ipse lioentioris vitae intemperantia factum non dissimularet, et dolenter ferre videretur, admonitus est, prospiceret saluti suae, opportuneque in asceterium aliquamdiu secederet, eluendis animae sordibus unice vacaturus. Id quo facilius assequeretur, suasit adolescenti Fontifex ut qua maxima posset attentione perlegeret aureum ilium de quatuor Hominia Novimmis librum, scilicet auctore Dyonisio Carthusiano, qui copia et sanctitate doctrinae Divini nomen invenit. Earn Fonti- fex rem his, qui sequuntur versibus amplexus est. Mense Majo anno mimxclxxxiv. -<)-* <)- -<^ ^y- i- J^i OT long since tliere was admitted into the presence of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIH, a young nobleman, scarcely out of his sixteenth year, yet wearing a haggard look and showing an extremely weakened frame of body. As he made no effort to conceal the fact that his pitiful appearance was the result of his dissolute manner of living, and seemed keenly to appre- ciate the misery to which he saw himself reduced; the Holy Father gave him a kind but strong admonition to have a serious regard for his wel&re both spiritual and physical, and with this view, to retire for a while to some religious house where he might devote himself solely to cleansing his soul of its defilements. As a help to him in this holy task, he urged him to read with careful reflection the golden volume " On the Four Last Things," written by Denis the Carthusian, who has merited the title of the Divine by the richness and holiness of his doctrine. The Pontiff has given poetical expression to this little incident in the lines that follow. ' -4h. -<> Zo 3floru0.* JJ LORUS, a fever wastes thee with its fire: In deepest languor steeped, droops thy young frame: Cups, brimming with Hell's poison of desire, Give to thy eager lips a draught of shame; Circean cups, that make thee look the same As brutish swine, enamored of the mire, Or sullen boars, whose savage eyeballs flame^ With frenzied purpose wrought by blinding ire — Ah, hapless boy ! awake, awake at length ! If thou canst still the cry of reason hear, And look thee to the welfare of thy soul I Fly Siren voices, fly, with all thy strength ! Within Carthusian walls seek fountains clear: ^ There cleansing thoughts and deeds shall make thee whole: * Namely, the consideration of the Four Last Things. "v * * Hu0p!catud iSccIeslae tTriumpbua. -ZjlUGUROR : ap[)arent flanimantia luniina coelo, Sidereoque rubens fulget ab axe dies. Continuo efiugiunt, subitoqiie exterrita visu Tartareos repetunt horrida monstra lacus. Gens inimica Deo portentum invita fateri, Fletuque admissum visa piare scelus. Tunc veteres cecidere irae, tunc pugna quievit: Pectora mox dulci foedere iungit amor. i ZTbc TTnumpb of tbe Cburcb foreabaDowct), XHUS do I prophesy: a flaming light E'en now with radiance bathes the eastern sky, And from the starry heavens flashing bright The rosy dawn lights up the glistening eye. Then straightway to the nether pools of fire The hated monsters plunge affrightetl down : And in the fetid, ever-burning mire Sink once again with many a horrid groan. Constrained, at length, this wonder to confess The race that waged erewhile relentless strife Against its God, turns now that God to bless And mourn the errors of its sinful life. Then hatred long indulged and bitter grown And angry combating against the right Cease, and by virtue's magic power won All hearts in blissful harmony unite. -^-- -<>- r 158 LE0NI8 XIII OARMINA. Quin et prisca redit pietaa, neglcctaquo virtus, Candida pax, castusquc et sine fraude piulor. lUustrat vetus ilia Italas sapientia mentes : LoDgius errorum pulsa caterva cohors. O laeta Ausoniae tellus! o clara triurapho, Et cultu et patria relligioue potens! ^y •(H POEMS OF LEO XIII. 159 Nay men who scortuKl to love with fervor hum And virtue's path hestrewn with roses find, Peace once again and modesty return And the sweet face, that sjKjaks the guileless mind. That wisdom which so brilliant shone of eld Upon us now an equal lustre sheds, And error, by new charity repelled, No longer through the land infection spreads. O fair Ausonian land! O happy home! O crowned with glory and with victory i O powerful in the glorious faith of Rome, The birthright dear, that Peter left to thee I <> <>^ ( I o 3fru0trata flmpiorum Spe PONTIPrClTJf IIOMANORUM SERIES NON INTERMITTITUR. WCCIDIT, inclamant, soHo dejectus, in ipbo Carcere, in acrumnis occidit ccce Leo. Spes insana: Leo alter adest, qui sacra VDlentes Jura dat in populos, imiieriumque tenet. mmmm mmm mmmifr ■II mtfm Zbc Ibope of tbe TKHlchcb I0 \Daln. THE LINE OF THE ROMAN PONTIFFS IS UNIUIOKKX. 4. v^AST down from throne to prison cell Leo has fallen," their joyful refrain, "Has fallen midst sadness and sorrow." All vain is the hope of the infidel ! Over glad Rome a new Leo shall reign, And rule as Christ's Vicar to-morrow.