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 diction; and a strong and regular heretical hierarchy added strength to their accursed combination. Their division into ‘Auditores,’ ‘Credentes,’ ‘Christians’ or ‘Perfecti,’ ‘Sacerdotes,’ ‘Prelates’ and ‘Popes’ is current history. On this point, brother, I must suggest to you that a worthy effort could be made, by your chosen agents, in suppressing, effacing, and extirpating all evidences of the power, the numbers, and the doctrines of these heretics. Centuries hence the absence of proof will aid the church in its claim of unbroken universality. The church of Rome has never been either unbroken or universal. With difficulty it has made head in these provinces chiefly through the contentions of the populations. By aiding one and another ambitious aspirant the church has introduced her dismembering policy.

“Your highness will do well to observe and formalize that principle,” added Bruno especially to Albert. “Such is our chief aim, and must continue to be in all countries. By beginning with education and schools, we can, as we have, proceed to regulate, and gradually to enforce, our supreme authority, until Rome sways the policy and the wealth of the world for her unlimited supremacy in all things.”

“The empire has never been thus subordinated,” claimed Rudolph, making an effort to resist the sweeping arrogance of his whilom obeisant but now dictatorial priest.

“The church has imposed its terms, as your highness knows, and will enforce them,” haughtily exclaimed Bruno.