To the Clergy and Nobles of Naples, on a Divided Election

Gregory to the clergy and noble citizens of Naples. It is nothing new, and nothing to be blamed, that in the election of a bishop the votes of the people should be divided between two parties. But it is a serious matter when in cases of this kind the election goes not by judgment but by favor alone. For before your letter reached us, we had learned from the report of certain persons that the deacon John, who has been elected by the other party, has a little daughter. So if they had been willing to listen to reason, neither would the others have elected him nor would he have consented. For how presumptuous must he be who dares to approach the office of bishop when the little girl is evidence against him that he has not long had control of his own body! [a]

Moreover, Peter the deacon, who you say has been elected by you, is, by all reports, quite without shrewdness. And you know that at the present time the man to be placed in the highest position of government should be one who knows how to take care not only for the salvation of souls, but also for the outward advantage and safety of those under him. But know also that it has come to our ears that he has lent money at interest. You ought to look into this thoroughly, and if it is so, elect another, and keep yourselves away from such a person without delay. For we will on no account lay hands on lovers of usury. If, however, after careful inquiry this should prove false (since we do not know him personally, and do not know whether what has been reported to us of his simplicity is true), he must come to us with your decree in his favor. Then, having inquired carefully into his life and conduct, we may at the same time come to know his understanding; and so, if he satisfies this inquiry, we may with the Lord’s help fulfill your wishes in him. Further, take care to look out also for another suitable person, so that if this one should perhaps prove unfit to be appointed to this order, there may be someone else to whom you can transfer your choice. For it will be a serious disgrace to your clergy, if this man should perhaps not be approved, should they say that they have no one else fit to be elected.