or, a protector. No one enjoys so high a reputation
in every regard in Rome as the cardinal. He gives me free access to
him and confides in me."

There is much evidence, too much to quote it all, that the cardinal
was drawn to Father Hecker on account of his simplicity and openness
of character, his frank manner, but especially for his bold, original
views of the opportunity of religion among free peoples. Cardinal
Barnabo was noted for his sturdy temper and was what is known as a
hard hitter, though a generous opponent as well as an earnest friend.
He espoused Father Hecker's cause with much heartiness; official
intercourse soon developed into a close personal attachment, which
lasted with unabated warmth till the strong old Roman was called to
his reward.

Father Hecker speaks in his letters of spending time with him, not
only on business but in discussing questions of philosophy and
religious controversy, and in talking over the whole American outlook.

The cardinal became the American priest's advocate before the Pope,
and also with the Congregation of Bishops and Regulars after the case
reached that tribunal. "When I heard him speak in my defence," he
said in after times, "I thanked God that he was not against me, for
he was a most imperious character when aroused, and there seemed no
resisting him."

Archbishop Bedini, the Secretary of the Propaganda, was another
hearty friend. Our older readers will remember that he had paid a
visit to America a few years before the time we are considering, and
that his presence here was made the occasion for some of the more
violent outbreaks of the Know-nothing excitement. He knew our
country personally, therefore, and was acquainted with very many of
our clergy; his assistance to the Roman Court in this case was of
special value. He became so demonstrative in his friendship for
Father Hecker that the Pope was amused at it, and Father Hecker
relates in his letters home how the Holy Father rallied him about the
warmth of his advocacy of the American priest's cause, as did various
members of the Pontifcal court.

At that time and for many years afterwards Doctor Bernard Smith, an
Irish Benedictine monk, was Professor of Dogmatic Theology in the
College of the Propaganda; he is now the honored abbot of the great
Basilica of St. Paul without-the-walls. How Father Hecker came to
know the learned professor we have been unable to discover; but both
he and Monsignor Kirby, of th