Despite the solemn promise of the papal court, the wily Marini became the instrument of the Roman authorities in evading the promise.

By suppressing a document here, and interpolating a statement there, he managed to give plausible standing-ground for nearly every important sophistry ever broached to save the infallibility of the Church and destroy the reputation of Galileo.

He it was who supported the idea that Galileo was "condemned not for heresy, but for contumacy." The first effect of Monsignor Marini's book seemed useful in covering the retreat of the Church apologists.

Aided by him, such vigorous writers as Ward were able to throw up temporary intrenchments between the Roman authorities and the indignation of the world.
But some time later came an investigator very different from Monsignor Marini.

This was a Frenchman, M.L'Epinois.