The same great astronomer now, for the first time, rendered something
like a rational account of the changes of the seasons. Nor did certain
of the more obscure astronomical phenomena escape his attention.

He delayed publishing his wonderful discoveries to the world until he
was quite an old man. He had a well-founded apprehension of the storm of
opposition which they would arouse. However, he yielded at last to the
entreaties of his friends, and his book[53] was sent to the press. But
ere it made its appearance to the world, Copernicus was seized with
mortal illness. A copy of the book was brought to him on May 23, 1543.
We are told that he was able to see it and to touch it, but no more; and
he died a few hours afterward.

FOOTNOTES:

[53] _De Orbium Coelestium Revolutionibus._

COUNCIL OF TRENT AND THE COUNTER-REFORMATION

A.D. 1545

ADOLPHUS W. WARD

An important phase of history in the sixteenth century is
summarized by Macaulay when he says that "the Church of
Rome, having lost a large part of Europe, not only ceased to
lose, but actually regained nearly half of what she had
lost." Macaulay is speaking of what is known as the
"Counter-reformation," a reaction against the Protestant
movement, which was rapidly spreading in Europe. By the
Counter-reformation not only were the Roman Catholic losses
largely recovered, but an increased zeal for the
regeneration of the Church of Rome became fruitful of
results.

The reformation of the Church from within had been often
attempted by the ecclesiastical leaders. Several "reforming
councils" had been held, but the desired object had not been
accomplished. During the pontificate of Paul III (1534-1549)
the movement for regenerating the Church, as well as for
opposing the progress of Protestantism, was effectually
inaugurated. At the Council of Trent the new policy was
definitely set forth.

A general council had long been demanded by the Germans.
Even many of the leading Italians had come to desire it.
Charles V, who had his own reasons for temporizing with the
Protestants, had urged it year after year. Much as the
domination of the Emperor might be feared in such an
assembly, Paul at length decided to comply. Twice he ordered
the assembling of a council (1536 and 1538), but the
distracted state of Europe caused postponem