_Prince_, ch.xvii.In the Satires of Ariosto (Satire i.

208-27) there is a brilliant and singularly outspoken passage on the nepotism of the Popes and its ruinous results for Italy.
Former Pontiffs had raised money by the sale of benefices and indulgences: this, of course, Alexander also practiced--to such an extent, indeed, that an epigram gained currency: 'Alexander sells the keys, the altars, Christ.

Well, he bought them; so he has a right to sell them.' But he went further and took lessons from Tiberius.

Having sold the scarlet to the highest bidder, he used to feed his prelate with rich benefices.

When he had fattened him sufficiently, he poisoned him, laid hands upon his hoards, and recommenced the game.