Addison, Joseph: Remarks on several parts of Italy: &c. in the years 1701, 1702, 1703 (London: Tonson, 1718)

From Rome to Naples, 137
Parts of Europe of the same Extent.
This Desolation appears no where greater
than in the Pope’s Territories, and yet
there are several Reasons would make
a Man expert to see these Domini-
ons the belt regulated, and most ssou-
riihing of any other in Europe. Their
Prince is generally a Man of Learning
and Virtue, mature in Years and Expe-
rien'ce, who has seldom any Vanity or
Pleasure to gratify at his People’s Ex-
pence, and is neither encumber’d with
Wife, Children or Mistresses; not to
mention the suppos’d San&ity of his
Chara&er, which obliges him in a more
particular manner to consult the Good
and Happiness of Mankind. The Di-
rection of Church and State are
lodg’d entirely in his own Hands, so
that his Government is naturally free
srom those Principles of Faction and Di-
vision which are mix’d in the very
Composition of most others. His Sub-
jects are always ready to fall in with his
Designs, and are more at his Disposal
than any others of the most absolute
Government, as they have a greater Ve-
neration for his Person, and not only
court his Favour but his Blessing. His
Country is extreamly fruitful, and has
good Havens both for the Adriatic and
Medi-