We have discussed elsewhere the last scheme current in Rome,
which is said to be strongly supported by the Belgian General of the Jesuits. This is to appoint the Emperor of the French, as successor of the grantor Pepin, administrator of the States of the Church, under the title of Patrician of Rome, which was once borne by Charlemagne. The Emperor would be created at the same time Defender of the Church—a title which would rally the priesthood everywhere to his side—and would establish secular government in Rome, which the Pope cannot do, he being bound to support the theory that the Canon is superior to the civil law. The proposal, which would bring France and Italy into collision, will if made almost certainly be rejected, and by no means pleases the Pope, who has already, it is said, agreed that Italy shall take over the Papal debt.
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