problem must be solved by means of historical and psychological research, the method of which remains hitherto unknown to our apologetic. It is on this account that that apologetic no longer satisfies men's souls, and has lost the power of revealing to them the attraction of the Christian life.
Unhappy souls, yet not on that account unworthy of our help and our charity! It is not pride that holds them aloof from us, nor the fear of finding a truth which would impose stern sacrifices upon their intelligence and their will. No one can be brought into contact with souls of this kind—and there are many of them among the ranks of the studious—without being convinced of the abounding generosity and love for Truth and Justice which inspire their patient and arduous researches. Believe it, Holy Father, they deserve all our interest. You will say that they are blind and sickly souls. We answer that
