But happily the example and the authority of the Vatican had overcome their scruples.

Innocent the Eleventh and Alexander the Eighth had regarded William with ill concealed partiality.

He was not indeed their friend; but he was their enemy's enemy; and James had been, and, if restored, must again be, their enemy's vassal.

To the heretic nephew therefore they gave their effective support, to the orthodox uncle only compliments and benedictions.

But Alexander the Eighth had occupied the papal throne little more than fifteen months.