1556 The History of the Popes (Volume XXXV) From the German of the Late Ludwig, Freiherr von Pastor translated by E. F. Peeler (read 23 Mar 1980) This volume deals with the pontificate of Benedict XIV (1740-1758) but does not complete the account of his reign. In some ways it is sad. I am not overly impressed by Benedict XIV. He was soft on Jansenism, tough on the Jesuits, and chicken with the arrogant European Powers. The conclave that elected him lasted from Feb 19, 1740, till Aug 17, 1740--the longest conclave since the Great Schism; 255 ballots were taken! 56 Cardinals participated. Benedict XIV created 66 Cardinals. Surprisingly, Benedict XIV celebrated only one solemn canonization: on June 29, 1746, he canonized St Fidelis of Sigmaringen, Joseph of Leonissa, Pedro Regalator, Camillus de Lellis, and Catherine de Ricci. He did beatify six persons: Alexander Sauli (both my daughter Sandy's patrons raised by him!), Joseph of Cupertino (my second name patron), Girlamo Miani, Guiseppe de Calasamga,and Jeanne Francoise de Chantal--as well as beatifying Camillus de Lellis. All in all, a book well worth reading. ( )