SOMETIMES MONARCHICAL AND THEN REPUBLICAN.
The French Revolution made a wonderful wave of influence in favor of a republic as the model form of government. It seemed just as the last century was closing that all the monarchies of the world would have to crumble before the powerful influence of republican ideas. And it is certainly true that the monarchical form of government has been greatly modified, and, with one or two exceptions, where the throne is still preserved, the people in reality rule much after the manner of a republic. During all this time when the greater freedom of the republic was being advocated as the best form of government, the pope ruled as a solitary despot in his particular sphere. When he spoke ex cathedra, his words were an inexorable law that firmly demanded an unqualified and absolute obedience. In the year 1870 he was declared infallible, and why should not his words constitute an unquestionable law? But there is a change coming over the papal mind. Leo says now that he thinks Italy would be better off if she were a republic. The pope also reports himself as much in favor of the republican institutions of America. But the Papacy, as it comes to mind in the light of any or all of its history, is the most perfect suggestion of despotism. And it seems strange indeed to find it preparing to enter the arena as the champion of the very opposite views. In the rank and file of the Catholic Church are to be found many who are sincerely devoted to what they think to be the true principles of Christianity. And many of the leading men in the same church must be credited with doing the best they know how. But is it not too true of both the Papal and Protestant churches, as well, that the people in the main blindly follow their leaders instead of taking the sure Word of God? And when the people find their leaders to-day acting as champions of the kingly form of government, and to-morrow just as earnestly advocating a republic, can it be that after all the infallible God is their guide? Politicians trim their sails to suit the varying breezes of opinion, but the Word of God stands fast forever. Our heavenly Father has given us His Word. That Word always tells the same story. And whether at the present time we go by the name of Catholic or Protestant, or any other name, we should recognize the Bible as our guide. If we follow the teaching of that blessed Book, we will surely go right.