used to do, 'ask what you wish for.' I cannot do so, for several reasons.

In the first place, I do not myself know exactly what would suit me.

Secondly, if I were to demand some vacant place, it might be given away before my demand reached the feet of his Holiness.

Thirdly, I might make a request that might displease him.

His extreme kindness might pledge him to grant it; and I should be made miserable by obtaining it.
"Let him give me, then, whatever he pleases, without waiting for my petitioning for it.