The Vatican Observer
December 1514

Joyous Gatherings Presage Ushering in the New Year with a Spate of Debate

Miei amici. Not to repeat the previous month's doublings, the year's end featured three different gatherings at three different venues. One thing that was common to all three was a complete lack of exclusivity in the guest lists, with the result that the steps, fora, colonnades and other gathering-places of Roma will resound to spirited debate, or, not impossibly, some acrimonious backbiting. Let us see who will have the prize for the list most full.

At the start of the month, Alberto di Miteli entertained Andrea del Carnevale and his companion Lusanna at The Viminal. It is said that, when his guests toasted his convivial manner and remarked that Major di Miteli would certainly please many a woman of the court, he merely smiled. The reason for his smile was seen about two weeks later, gentle reader, as you will note. The evening was spent quietly and pleasantly.

During week the second, Deacon Enzo di Vitelli's and Fiammetta hosted at The Aventine. Attending were Andrea del Carnevale and Lusanna, Arturo Negri and Ginevra, Bartolomeo Gagliardi and Elena, Baldessare Zamboni and Maria, Dante Malatesta, Damiano Octavio Nero d'Alba, Marco Vicenzo Penaccini, Stefano Zanetti and Margherita, Ugo Blatti, Valentino Clementi, and Vito Erasmo Guilgliondo.

The viands were enjoyed, but even more so the grape, and Deacon Negri and Signor del Carnevale both wove their way, and I do mean wove, to the tables of chance. There, the pagan Bacchus seems to have prodded Fortuna to favour Signor del Carnevale to the sum of two score ducats, but Deacon Negri received perhaps a more appropriate chastisement against such pastimes, through the loss of some score-and-ten. It must be said, however, that Deacon Negri bore his loss with a cheerful disposition.

Disposed somewhat otherwise, will be several of the guests, who avowed to defend the honours of their factions in debate as soon as could be arranged. Thus, Bartolomeo Gagliardi and Ugo Blatti will exchange arguments, and both Damiano Octavio Nero d'Alba and Enzo di Viteli will be having words with Marco Vicenzo Penaccini.

The final week of the month held yet another gay and well-attended gathering at The Quirinal, hosted by Padre Bartolomeo Gagliardi and Elena. Many were the guests who passed within: Andrea del Carnevale and Lusanna, Alberto di Miteli and his new companion Sandra, Arturo Negri and Ginevra, Baldessare Zamboni and Maria, Damiano Octavio Nero d'Alba, Enzo di Vitelli and Fiammetta, Fausto Luca Odetti, Guido Vitale, Marco Vicenzo Penaccini, Rinaldo Leonardo Amadeo de Gregori and Francesca, Stefano Zanetti and Margherita, Ugo Blatti, Umberto Tarantella, Valentino Clementi, and Vito Erasmo Guilgliondo.

Once more, the meat and drink were excellent, but soon outdone by the spirited conversation and incipient debates. In the spirited vein, Padre Rinaldo Leonardo Amadeo de Gregori became rather obviously tipsy. This was surprising for two reasons. The first, that no-one had expected that the good Padre would still be in Roma, as His Holiness himself had suggested that he be posted to the Missions in an advisory capacity. Apparently, the application was turned aside, which must either make one admire the Delegation Leader for his rigid sense of autocracy, or blanch at the likely outcome. Perhaps the good Padre's star has been rising a bit too quickly for some. The second, more mundane reason, is that while the Padre is known for being quite a Humanist and Bon Vivant, this may be the first time that he has ever been noticeably affected by the cup. In any event, since his response was merely to spread about his largesse in the form of extra gifts for the establishment, and extra wine for the gathering, he is at least not a sad bibber.

With such a gracious and happily-attended dinner to his credit, Padre Gagliardi can also be congratulated for having generated even more opportunities for debate, including for himself: He will meet both Alberto di Miteli and Ugo Blatti. Then there are those from the Farnese and the Sforza who will again have cause to debate amongst themselves in myriad combinations: each of Damiano Octavio Nero d'Alba, Enzo di Vitelli and Rinaldo Leonardo Amadeo de Gregori will be matching wits with each of Fausto Luca Odetti and, once more, Marco Vicenzo Penaccini.

And so, our winner for Most Sought After Debating Opponent is Deacon Penaccini, with no less than four debates, and there are several others with three and two apiece! Deacon Penaccini is rumoured to be quite avid and competent for such occasions. However, there are not a few keen debaters in next month's slate, and Roma promises to be fairly awash with clever grammar and rhetoric.

Until then, finito.

Debates

Once again, gentle readers, we find that the salons and cafes of illustrious Roma are filled with learned debate and witty observation. Truly, we are blessed to have so many men of wit and grace gathered at one shining court, the court of Pope Leo X to whom all admirers of the oratorical arts pay tribute as highest patron of this most glittering of cities.

This month past we find old opponents re-met, but in a spirit of amity and jovial contest which it is my earnest hope shall act as inspiration to all those who seek to prove their reputation through matching it against the rhetorical barbs of others.

Once again Pascucci's, frullateria to the famous, served as the location for all that follows. Deacon Zamboni met with Deacon Negri with the intent of continuing their discussion on the Lord's words on the subject of whether it was better to rely on wise words or strong steel. In a playful spirit, the two men swapped sides of the debate, with Deacon Zamboni now arguing that in an evil world man could not rely on rhetoric alone and Deacon Negri suggesting that to truly follow our Lord's teachings one should put aside the trappings of war and embrace instead the path of peace.

Both men opened with a little good humoured banter before properly settling down to their task, with Deacon Negri quoting from Matthew "Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also" and arguing that clearly this could only be taken to mean that violence should not be met with violence. In turn, Deacon Zamboni noted that Luke reports our Lord as saying "When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace" and that clearly from this it could be seen that the Lord did not advocate reliance on turned cheeks alone. Deacon Negri was seen at this point to smile, and riposted that Deacon Zamboni must have the right of it as he was well known for presenting two faces to every problem and thus must know more of the presenting of cheeks than most.

This allusion, potentially scurrilous in nature, drew gasps from those present but only laughter from Deacon Zamboni who applauded it as a fine jest, before replying in more serious tone that Romans teaches us that "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live in peace with everyone" and that by using the words "if it is possible" it was clear that the Lord was envisaging there being circumstances in which it would not be so possible and in which to bear arms would be a Godly act.

Both men paused briefly, refreshed themselves and after some good natured discourse with members of the gathered audience returned to the fray, With Deacon Zamboni proposing that when the Lord says to his disciples "Put your sword back in its place, for all those who draw the sword will die by the sword" he was not prohibiting the righteous from arming themselves but simply cautioning against following a life of violence. Had the disciples truly been expected to win through words alone they would not have been carrying swords in the first place and no caution not to draw them would have been required, thus the Lord plainly countenanced the bearing of arms. Deacon Negri laughed at this seeming clever argument, noting that as it was promised that the righteous would sit at the hand of the Lord in paradise, the true Christian should have no fear for death and thus the wise man would travel armed with sword but would not use it, so that when others drew theirs in response to his armed approach this would lead swiftly to his untimely and painful demise. All present were greatly amused at this reversal of the argument and thus Deacon Negri was acclaimed as victor of the bout.

Deacon Negri now turned to his other opponent of the day, Captain Vitale of the Swiss Guard. The captain, in better humour than the month previous, opened with the humorous proposal that perhaps it was best he left immediately, as it is taught that one should "Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge." Deacon Negri responded instantly that as "The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way" he imagined the good Captain would need directions if he were to find his way out to the street beyond. All present laughed, and as it was unclear who had garnered the greatest amusement the two gentlemen decided to continue in their present locale.

Next Deacon Negri proposed that since true wisdom was to be found through the teachings of the Church, was it not true that Captain Vitale should best be minded to accept the guidance of those who were trained in matters of divinity? Sensing himself on dangerous ground, Captain Vitale noted that on this argument he should above all follow the words of Deacon Zamboni as that gentleman was not only a Deacon but also a member of the Captain's own faction. Captain Vitale further noted that on today's arguments, this would mean him putting aside his guardsman's halberd and instead guarding the pope by presenting his cheeks to those who sought to bring their swords to bear, was this truly what Deacon Negri sought?

Once again those present were taken back by the nature of the jests being sallied forth, which on the view of some were bawdy to an unacceptable degree when uttered in the presence of, or worse by, members of the clergy.

Deacon Negri, apparently red faced and choking as if struggling to contain a great mirth despite the ribald suggestion he had just been witness to, chose to respond with a higher form of wit. The good Deacon smiled kindly and commented that that although it was true that the Lord had said that he did not come to bring peace to the Earth, but a sword, most who studied his teachings did in time realise that His message was greater than simply an exhortation to support one's local armoury. Captain Vitale smiled politely, but simply responded in turn that if he was ignorant of later teachings it could only be because Deacon Negri had not used this opportunity to instruct him in them. Perhaps, said the Captain wryly, it was because Deacon Negri followed the teachings of Chigi Bishop Entre who was not known for his great learning whereas Bishop Ensei of the Barberini had never been known to have difficulty in inspiring others to follow his word.

For reasons unclear to those attendant, this apparently modest jibe found its mark and Deacon Negri freely admitted defeat. What could it be in the Captain's jest that Deacon Negri found so compelling? In time, no doubt, this as all things shall be made clear. Until that day, I salute them both as I do all men of wit without whom this poor world would be a much duller place.

Upcoming Debates

BG v AdM (faction rivals)
BG v UB (faction rivals)
DONA/FLO (faction rivals)
EdV v MVP (faction rivals)
RLAG/FLO (faction rivals)
DONA v MVP (faction rivals)
EdV/FLO (faction rivals)
RLAG/MVP (faction rivals)

Movers and Shakers

In the Vatican many sought to begin a life of service, gain an appointment, or improve their position. Success in such matters often depends upon perseverance, personal charm, and the estimation of the candidate by those with the power to decide.

The Swiss Guard had only one applicant this month, the very determined A. del Carnevale who was finally accepted by the Colonel into the most elite group of gentlemen charged with the safety of His Holiness. The young man has not been approached by any faction, nor has he sought out the protection of a group but in due course undoubtedly he will align himself.

Signor D. Malatesta was appointed deacon with the Doria-Pamfili Faction with genuine warmth, for he is both qualified and well regarded by many in Roma. Signor U. Blatti, likewise, joined the Ludovisi Faction as deacon. Immediately he petitioned for the resignation of the Faction's Canon, but lacking influence within the faction his request was denied. Deacon Blatti would do well to prove himself before calling for the resignation of a superior. However, his energy can not be denied.

Many others sought to gain appointments but all failed. The majority of these young men attempted to improve their positions before proving themselves within their faction, or cultivating friendships that would assist their rise. Deacon di Vitelli was one such case, as he sought the position of Adviser to the Third Coalition without the support of his faction and the assistance of others.

The most well known example of reaching for a prized position was the application of Deacon Zamboni to be Secretary to Giulio de Medici. The man is qualified, belonging to the Barberini faction, but the time of year was not appropriate, and he wanted for powerful friends.

Deacon Odetti applied for a position within the Sforza Faction and proved to be another example of not gaining the support of others before acting. He was rejected, but without prejudice, for the time being.

Canon de Gregori's application for Adviser to the Delegation Leader was most narrowly rejected. This was through no fault of the good Deacon, for it is well known that he is a great credit to the Farnese, being a man of acute and agile intellect. It was finally decided upon the matter of seniority and experience, for Deacon de Gregori has been a member of the clergy for less than a year.

The most interesting demonstration of gaining influence and prestige was the realignment of Deacon Negri. Seeking to improve his standing, and having gained the personal position to achieve his goal, Deacon Negri left the Chigi Faction to join their rivals the Barberini. His execution was perfect, as the Barberini were eager to gain an ally and embarrass the Chigi. While this manoeuvre may be seen as disloyal, most particularly by the Chigi, the subtlety of its timing must be admired.

Men of the Cloth / Men of Steel

The dispatch of a delegation to Castile, this season, was an inevitable step in continuing the consolidation of those most loyal to the Holy Church. For there are few Kings, Princes, and peoples who are as devout as the inhabitants of that region of Spain.

Presently, Castile is governed by a Council of Regency directed by Cardinal Jimenez until King Carlos V reaches majority. The young King, who is merely fourteen, has been subjected to hardships unknown to the most monarchs; his father, Philip the Handsome of Bravant expired from a terrible illness, his poor mother Queen Juana went mad from grief and despair, leaving the very young King a veritable orphan.

Yet, Castile survives, and continues to expand in conjunction with Aragon. Much of this is due to the steady hand of Cardinal Francisco Jimenez de Cisneros, former Inquisitor-General. His conduct of conversions in Grenada resulted in many Moors, and others estranged from the True Faith.

The arrival of the Delegation under Cardinal N. Tertius in Burgos was most cordial in spite of the most inclement weather. The dispatch of the Delegation to celebrate Advent, the feast of the Immaculate Conception, and the Birth of Our Saviour with such an important member of the Holy Church does His Holiness great credit, demonstrating such foresight and thoughtfulness in matters pertaining to the solidarity of the Church.

Ably assisting Cardinal N. Tertius were the more dynamic and brilliant Patriarch En Sextus, and the Leader of the Second Coalition Archbishop N. Seis. Both of these superb examples of the intellectual rigor and sincere devotion made a most favourable impression upon those attending Holy Observations and engaging in colloquy.

During the discussions, for they could not be called debates, there existed a mutual respect between Pontiff's Delegation and the members of Cardinal Jimenez and the Council.

The Aldobrandini Faction spoke first with the most collegial tone. Bishop En Due, who has never been an inspiring speaker, managed quite well under such favourable circumstances. The remaining members engaged the Spanish with much more vigorous dialog, displaying a degree of acumen rarely heard. Canon En Cinque improved upon the Bishop's remarks, and in turn Padre N. Seeks and Padre N. Trois continued to impress those attending. Deacon V.G.Magliano capped the day with a most eloquent and profound speech upon the subject of Christian unity. For this he was given a great quantity of silver and some unusual spices from New Spain.

The Chigi Faction spoke the following day. Although slightly diminished in numbers Bishop N. Tres, Canon En Zwei, Padre En Drei, and Padre N. Six were all uniformly well received in their efforts to promote the most congenial atmosphere.

The Missionary Faction continues to impress those observing with their zeal, tempered with discretion. Bishop N. Quarto has formed a most effective group during the course of the past months. Again, as in Hungary, the faction, which has no direct affiliation, but is an ad hoc collaboration of those men most ardent in their desire to spread the Gospel, performed most admirably.

The very practical approach of Bishop N. Quarto and Canon En Five meet with the most agreeable reaction. The performance and direct speech of Padre N. Quintari was most exceptional, and most warmly received. Padre N. Sexta was somewhat disappointing only in comparison. The lay cleric V. dei Gambetti performed very well, but had the unfortunate luck of being quartered in a most undesirable district.

Behind all the rhetoric there is the tireless labour of the Papal Scholars lead by Bishop N. Sixieme. To state that the group of researchers, writers, and thinkers has produced uniformly good work would be to belittle the efforts of such men. Canon N. Sex, Padre N. Sesto, Padre En Quinto, were joined in their work by Deacon C. Salieri, of the Borgia Faction. Deacon Salieri's work was considered so worthy that he was twice mentioned in reports and given a grant of modest size.

Hopefully, the good will that exists between the Pontiff's Delegation and the Council of Cardinal Jimenez will continue past this most Holy season.

Around the Markets

Early in the month both Priest di Vitelli and Deacon Penaccini sought robes appropriate for the seasonal celebrations. It would be fair to say that the young deacon in his robe of simple fabric looked more stylish than the routund priest garbed in wool. Major di Miteli wasted no time in outfitting himself with the very several shirts in the very latest fashion. However, the most splendidly attired of all was Deacon Odetti, no doubt intent on quashing the rumours of his impecuniosity which had so marred his arrival in Rome.

The jewellers profited from Subdeacon Malatesta's recent promotion when he celebrated by purchasing an ornate cross of silver.

The scholarly Signor. Tarentella has procured a fine copy of Cicero's De Oratore. Meanwhile, it has been reported that Deacon Negri has been seeking texts on such diverse subjects as Prester John, the lost tribes of Israel, Africa and the Orient. Whether any of this is connected with his recent desertion of the Mission-bound Chigi for the Barberini has yet to be established.

Active in the property market was the pig-strangler, Valentino Clementi. In stark contrast to the conditions of squalor in which he spends his days, his evenings are now passed in the comparatively airy surrounds of the Monte Testaccio.

We turn next to some of the city's better known epicureans. Deliveries of wine and fine meats have resumed to the lodgings of Priest Gagliardi. Evidently his self-imposed fast is over. Similarly, many fine wines have been ordered for the account of Canon de'Gregori. Rumours abound that, having been denied the appointment he sought, he will distract himself by throwing an extravagant party next month.

Notable amongst the restaurant patrons was Captain del Carnevale who was observed once again negotiating for the best table in the house.

Court Companionship

If one wishes to know about the comings and goings of the Medici and the Papal Court, then one needs to find a contact, a Companion, with connections. This is a well-known fact and we see how it effects the actions of those who wish to be powerful, even as they attempt to discover the activities of those who already are./P>

Unfortunately for some, life does not always proceed as they would wish. Ugo Blatti is one of these folk forgotten by fortune. Despite careful preparations and the expenditure of many ducats, he was unsuccessful in gaining access to Valentina. Perhaps he should have remembered that he wasn't after her as a woman, but as a person of knowledge. The roses, while beautiful, were not appropriate.

Deacon Fausto Luca Odetti, of the Sforza, on the other hand, set out during the same, first week of the month, to see if Luisa would be willing to bestow her wisdom upon him. A clever young priest, the good Deacon spoke to her with words of piety and of the power of God. She was quite impressed by his clarity of mind and tongue and agreed to meet with him in the future.

Another fortunate soul, and one who has been much talked about over the past several months, was the redoubtable Major Alberto di Miteli of the Swiss Guards and a member of the Ludovisi faction. Deciding that his long absence from Roma might have put him at a disadvantage in the manoeuvrings of the Court and amongst the Guards, he sought out the lady Sandra. Before doing so, however, he spent some time and money having a number of scrolls obtained during his travels abroad transcribed onto fine paper with gilt edging. He presented these writings to the lady, much to her delight. She agreed that the sharing of information between the two of them would be to the benefit of both.

Court and Social

The Pope will host the following events at the Lateran Palace, Rome
In the first week: Grand Court
In the fourth week: Conclave

Positions Vacant

Papal Legate for the Orient
Papal Legate for the Occident
Papal Legate for Rome
Secretarius Intimus