Pope Leo the Tenth.

Pope Leo the Tenth was one of the most learned and polished princes of his or any age; and it was his excessive proneness to the encouragement of his favorite pursuits which induced him to act with singular imprudence in the matter of indulgences. Wherever manuscripts were to be had, they were purchased by Leo; wherever learned men were to be found, they were invited to his court with a splendid profusion; he has the immortal honor of being the first to encourage and patronise the Greek language in Italy. The names of the illustrious De Medici, Pontiff at the Reformation, and that of his virtuous and pious successor, Hadrian the Sixth, will live as long as learning is estimated and sound philosophy duly appreciated. Such a tribute does Leo the Tenth demand—such a tribute is not denied him by Luther; and one thing is clear, that, arguing from human page 18 principles, had Luther been Leo the Tenth, and Leo the Monk of Wittemberg, the Reformation would most probably have been now to commence.

(Anon. Protestant.)