All we require of him is, that he should allow criminal justice to dispose of some few of the worst characters who throng to these evil haunts.

But this very natural remedy would be utterly repugnant to his notions.

The tavern assassin is seldom a foe to the Government.
Not that the Pope absolutely refuses to let assassins be pursued; that would be opposed to the practice of all civilized countries.

But he takes care that they shall always get a good start of their pursuers.
If they reach the banks of a river the pursuit ceases, lest they should jump into the water and be drowned without confession and absolution.

If they seize hold of the skirts of a Capuchin Friar--they are saved.