their answer was, their directors had advised them so to do. Information
of this being given to the inquisition, they sent orders that all books
written in the same strain with those of Molinos and Petrucci, should be
taken from them, and that they should be compelled to return to their
original form of devotion.

The circular letter sent to cardinal Cibo, produced but little effect,
for most of the Italian bishops were inclined to Molinos' method. It was
intended that this, as well as all other orders from the inquisitors,
should be kept secret; but notwithstanding all their care, copies of it
were printed, and dispersed in most of the principal towns in Italy.
This gave great uneasiness to the inquisitors, who use every method they
can to conceal their proceedings from the knowledge of the world. They
blamed the cardinal, and accused him of being the cause of it; but he
retorted on them, and his secretary laid the fault on both.

During these transactions, Molinos suffered great indignities from the
officers of the inquisition; and the only comfort he received was, from
being sometimes visited by father Petrucci.

Though he had lived in the highest reputation in Rome for some years, he
was now as much despised, as he had been admired, being generally
considered as one of the worst of heretics.

The greater part of Molinos' followers, who had been placed in the
inquisition, having abjured his mode, were dismissed; but a harder fate
awaited Molinos, their leader.

After lying a considerable time in prison, he was at length brought
again before the inquisitors to answer to a number of articles exhibited
against him from his writings. As soon as he appeared in court, a chain
was put round his body, and a wax-light in his hand, when two friars
read aloud the articles of accusation. Molinos answered each with great
steadiness and resolution; and notwithstanding his arguments totally
defeated the force of all, yet he was found guilty of heresy, and
condemned to imprisonment for life.

When he left the court he was attended by a priest, who had borne him
the greatest respect. On his arrival at the prison he entered the cell
allotted for his confinement with great tranquility; and on taking leave
of the priest, thus addressed him: Adieu, father, we shall meet again at
the day of judgment, and then it will appear on which side the truth is,
whether on my side, or on yours.

During his confinement, he was several times to