The fantastic superstition which the king indulged alternately with sensual extravagances, must have been odious to one whose spiritual mistress was divine Sophia, and whose religion was an adoration of the intellect for the One Cause.

But Henri had one quality which seemed of supreme excellence to Bruno.

He appreciated speculation and encouraged men of learning.

A man so enthusiastic as our philosopher may have thought that his own teaching could expel that Beast Triumphant of the vices from a royal heart tainted by bad education in a corrupt Court.

Bruno, moreover, it must be remembered, remained curiously inappreciative of the revolution effected in humanity by Christian morals.