"And lastly?"
"Often the ineptness, the feebleness, the insatiable cupidity and the excesses of the papacy."
"These, then, are the obstacles to the absolute rule of the Catholic world by her Church?"
"Yes, master."
"Is it possible to overcome these obstacles?"
"We can, master, provided your spirit speaks through our mouths, and your will dictates our actions."
"All honor to the Lord—let's begin with the Kings. What are they with regard to the Popes?"
"Their rivals."
"What should they be?"
"Their first subjects."