The
strange sense of impersonality which was one of his distinguishing
attributes prevented the usual desire for contest with which most
thinking men meet other strong minds, and was, perhaps, a secret of his
triumphs.
"Most Serene Prince, Counsellors, and Nobles of the Council, if you ask
me of the law as it hath declared itself to my understanding, the matter
is simple and quickly to be uttered.
"The dominion of the Church marches in the paths of heaven; it cannot
therefore clash with the dominion of princes, which marches on the paths
of earth. But the Roman court--calling itself the Church--is no longer
satisfied with that spiritual dominion to which it hath right, having
become aggressive and seeking to impose doctrines far removed from the
primitive law of the Church."
There was a slight pause, while the quiet eyes held his audience with a
challenge of assent; the faces of those who were unqualifiedly with him
in doctrine grew eager; here and there a dignified head bowed, unaware,
as if surrendering some belief.
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