It was impossible, of course, that these New Regulations, involving for the minority such tremendous possibilities, should be tamely acquiesced in without a protest. The protest came, partly in the form of written appeals to the Pope, and partly in speeches in the Congregation. One of the ablest orators in the Council, the brilliant Strossmayer, being called to order by the President, uttered against the Rules the following impassioned criticism:—
"I am persuaded that the perpetual and unmistakable rule of faith and tradition always was and always must remain that nothing could be passed without morally unanimous consent. A Council which ignored this rule, and attempted to define dogmas of faith and morals by a numerical majority, binding thereby the conscience of the Catholic world under penalties of eternal life and death, would, according to my most profound conviction, have transgressed its lawful bounds."[1]
As Strossmayer uttered the closing words the Council Chamber was filled with the wildest tumult, says Lord Acton, and the Session was broken up.[2]
Written protests were sent to the Pope against the New Regulations by the minority, but no relief was given. What were they now to do? They had complained, on ground of conscience, that the freedom of the Council was impaired. This complaint affected the Council's validity. Could they reasonably continue their work within it? On the other hand, no actual Decree was threatened as yet. Was it wise to withdraw before the repulsive doctrine was introduced? The instincts of caution prevailed over bolder and more resolute lines. The minority protested, but submitted.[3]
