This
miracle,--of which you are declared to be the worker,--though for
some inscrutable reason, you persist in denying your own act,--is
not yet properly authenticated. And, to make the case worse, it
seems that the unfortunate man, Claude Cazeau, whom we entrusted
with our instructions to the Archbishop of Rouen, has suddenly
disappeared, leaving no trace. Naturally there are strong suspicions
that he has met with a violent death,--perhaps at the hands of the
Freemasons, who are ever at work conspiring against the Faith,--or
else through the intrigues of the so-called 'Christian Democrats,'
of whom 'Gys Grandit' is a leader. In any case, it is most
reprehensible that you, a Cardinal-prince of the Church, should have
permitted yourself to become involved in such a doubtful business.
The miracle may have taken place,--but if so, you should have no
cause to deny your share in it; and however much you may be gifted
with the power of healing, I cannot reconcile your duty to us with
the Vergniaud scandal! Since you were here last, I have investigated
that matter thoroughly,--I have read a full report of the
blasphemous address the Abbe preached from his pulpit in Paris, and
I cannot, no I cannot"--here the Pope raised his thin white hand
with a gesture of menace that was curiously powerful for one so
seemingly frail--"I cannot forgive or forget the part you have taken
in this deplorable affair!"
The Cardinal looked up with a touch of pain and protest.
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