Each of these points they successively traversed, foreclosing every loophole for escape into accommodation.

It was in large measure due to Caraffa's energy and ability that these results were attained.
The method of procedure adopted by the Council, and the temper in which its business was conducted, were no less favorable to the Papacy than the authoritative sanction which it gave to dogmas.

From the first, the presidency and right of initiative in its sessions were conceded to the Papal Legates; and it soon became customary to refer decrees, before they were promulgated, to his Holiness in Rome for approval.

The decrees themselves were elaborated in three congregations, one appointed for theological questions, the second for reforms, the third for supervision and ratification.

They were then proposed for discussion and acceptance in general sessions of the Council.