[Born at Venice, 1693. Died at Rome, 1769. Aged 76.]
Commenced his pontifical reign by an endeavour to improve the morals of
his clergy and his people; but, later, he created displeasure in Europe
by protecting the Jesuits, who had been expelled from France and
Portugal. He consented at last to the suppression of the Order, and
expired almost as soon as the consent was given. It is rather surprising
that he did not die shortly before. A man of sincere piety, pure
intentions, and great charity.
[From the celebrated monument by Canova. Although the bust is of
colossal proportions, the features preserve their natural, harmonious
expression.]
194*. PADRE VENTURA. _Italian Priest._
[Still living.]
Born at Palermo, towards the close of the last century. At an early age,
entered the order of the Teatini: subsequently appointed Professor of
the University of Rome. When, in 1821, Naples, Piedmont, and Spain rose
for the recovery of freedom, and the hopes of the liberal party were
raised to the highest pitch in Italy, Ventura sympathized with the
popular voice. He was instantly dismissed from his office, and his
writings were denounced. When, in 1831, the Italian liberals were
crushed by Austria, the Padre took counsel of his judgment, craved to be
reconciled with the clerical party, and was made supreme head of his
Order. Deceived by the early policy and promises of Pius IX., Ventura,
in 1846, again gave rein to his liberal ideas, and returned to his
original sympathies. His oration on the death of O’Connell, delivered at
Rome, was bold and pathetic, and so far won for him the regard of his
ancient allies, that on the success of the Sicilians, who threw off the
Neapolitan yoke, he was named their representative at the court of Rome.
Another change came over the spirit of Ventura’s life. The Pope--his
friend--was chased from Rome; and he himself prudently awaited, in
Cività Vecchia, the result of the French invasion undertaken on the
Pope’s behalf. Upon the fall of Rome he repaired to France, and there
speedily wrote a formal recantation of all his “errors.” At this hour he
preaches in Paris in favour of Ultra-montane doctrines, and is
surrounded by admirers. He is learned, polished, courtier-like, and very
eloquent: not a popular preacher like Gavazzi, but with a style and
manner adapted to a cultivated audience.
[By Rinaldo Rinaldi, of Rome.]
KINGS AND QUEENS.