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18 merely natural things, and only, or at least primarily, the ends of earthly social life.

49. The Civil power may prevent the prelates of the Church and the faithful from communicating freely and mutually with the Roman Pontiff. Allocution Maxima quidem, June 9th, 1862.

50. Lay authority possesses of itself the right of presenting bishops, and may require of them to under take the administration of the dioceses before they receive canonical institution and the Letters Apostolic from the Holy See. Allocution Nunquam fore, Dec. 15th, 1862.

51. And further, the lay Government has the right of deposing bishops from their pastoral functions, and is not bound to obey the Roman Pontiff in those things which relate to the institution of bishoprics and the appointment of bishops. Allocution Acerbissimam, Sept. 17th, 1852.

52. Government can, by its own right, alter the age prescribed by the Church for the religious profession both of women and men; and may require of all religious orders to admit no person to take solemn vows without its permission. Allocution Nunquam fore, Dec. 15th, 1856.

53. The laws enacted for the protection of religious orders and regarding their rights and duties, ought to be abolished; nay more, Civil Government may lend its assistance to all who desire to renounce the obligation which they had undertaken, of a religious life, and to break their vows. Government may also sup press the said religious orders, as likewise Collegiate Churches and simple benefices, even those of advow-