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 of the melancholy drama quickly followed. A special commission was instituted at Rome by order of the Pope to investigate the whole affair. Urban afterwards repeatedly stated with great emphasis to Niccolini, that it was out of regard for the Grand Duke, as well as for Galileo, that the very unusual measure was taken of not referring his cause directly to the Holy Office, but to a separate congregation.

It is altogether a characteristic trait in all the proceedings of the Roman curia against Galileo, that there was a parade of great consideration for and forbearance towards him although strictly within the limits of their real intentions. Even the favour ostensibly shown to him of referring his cause to a preliminary commission, composed of theologians and mathematicians, was not so great in reality as it was trumpeted to be at the Vatican. It was composed of persons by no means favourable to him, and all the endeavours of Niccolini and other powerful friends of Galileo to have influential persons who were friendly to him put on the commission, such as Fathers Castelli and Campanella, were frustrated by the Pope. It occasioned a dangerous threat to be held over the undaunted Campanella, who energetically exerted himself in the matter.

Meanwhile disquieting rumours had reached Florence, and Galileo recognised with terror his dangerous position, though not to its full extent; this perhaps was as yet foreseen by no one. He appealed in full confidence to his friendly young sovereign for protection, and found a willing ear. On the 24th August a note on this business was sent to Niccolini, by order of the Grand Duke. It is clear that Ferdinand's efforts to assist Galileo were sincere from the circumstance that, although the letter was written in