Benedict, the predecessor of the present pope, was also known to
have been the enemy of Frederick, but he was wise enough to be
silent and not draw down upon the cloisters, and colleges, and
Catholics of Prussia the rage of the king.
But Clement, in his fanatical zeal, was not satisfied to pursue this
course. He was resolved to do battle against this heretical king. He
fulminated the anathemas of the church and bitter imprecations
against him, and showered down words of blessing and salvation upon
all those who declared themselves his foes. Because of this
fanatical hatred, Austria received a new honor, a new title from the
hands of the pope. As a reward for her enmity to this atheistical
marquis, and the great service which she had rendered in this war,
the pope bestowed the title of apostolic majesty upon the empress
and her successors. Not only the royal house of Austria, but the
generals and the whole army of pious and believing Christians,
should know and feel that the blessing of the pope rested upon their
arms, protecting them from adversity and defeat. The glorious
victory of Hochkirch must be solemnly celebrated, and the armies of
the allies incited to more daring deeds of arms.
Pages:
545
546
547
548
549
550
551
552
553
554
555
556
557
558
559
560
561
562
563
564
565
566
567
568
569