Page:The Life of Michael Angelo.djvu/227

Rh give an account and a reason for every good and impious work. Consequently, I recognise now how full of errors was the passionate illusion which made me turn art into an idol and a monarch; and I see clearly what every man desires for his hurt. What are amorous, vain and joyous thoughts now that I approach two deaths? Of one I am certain, and the other threatens me. Neither painting nor sculpture are any longer capable of calming the soul, turned towards that divine love which opens, to take us, its arms upon the cross."

But the purest flower which faith and suffering sent forth in the old sorrowful heart of Michael Angelo was divine charity.

This man, whom enemies accused of avarice, never