The Pope has interfered in politics with a vengeance. Under
his orders, Cardinal Jacobini transmitted a letter to the leader of the Centre in the German Parliament, instructing him that, " in view of the approaching revision of the May Laws, which there is reason to believe will prove satisfactory, the Holy Father desires the Centre to countenance the Military Septennate in every pos- sible way." Herr Windthorst kept this letter in his pocket ; but Cardinal Jacobini had to reply to a question on the subject from Munich, and in his answer gave the substance of the first letter, adding that the Holy Father wished to seize "afresh opportunity of being agreeable to the German Emperor and Prince Bismarck." In other words, the Pope wishes the Centre to sell their support to the Military Bill for the total repeal of the May Laws, and possibly —as Italians think—for help in his dispute with Italy. Herr Windthorst declares that he will not obey, and there is evidence that many of his followers are equally stubborn, while the Liberals are excited by the mere idea that the Pope should dis- pose of their liberties ; but there is little doubt that the letter breaks up the Centre Party. The Catholic constituencies, especially in Bavaria, want to support the Chancellor, and the published request of the Holy Father is quite sufficient excuse. It is said that the Pope's action has greatly increased the suspiciousness of Italian Liberals, and he will probably find
that he has reawakened many sleeping Parliamentary jealousies. Herr Windthorst had no possible claim to suppress the Pope's letter ; but it is not in Protestant countries only that the Pope's action will give offence.
