Thus, for example, the title shall run as follows: 'The Library, by Conrad Gesner, a writer condemned for his opinions, which work was formerly published and proscribed, but is now expurgated and licensed by superior authority.' The Holy Office was made virtually responsible for the censorship of books.

But, as I have already stated, there existed a Congregation of prelates in Rome to whom the final verdict upon this matter Was reserved.

If an author in some provincial town composed a volume, he was bound in the first instance to submit the MS.

to the censor appointed by the bishop and Inquisitor of his district.

This man took time to weigh the general matter of the work before him, to scrutinize its propositions, verify quotations, and deliberate upon its tendency.