Since the Reformation no cardinal had been seen at the court of Saxony.

He cared not personally for the pomps and glories of his rank, but still as prince of the Church he had settled right of precedence over electors.

To waive it would be disrespectful to the Pope, to claim it would lead to squabbles.

But Ferdinand had need of his skill to secure the vote of Saxony at the next Imperial election.

The Cardinal was afraid of Ferdinand with good reason, and complied.