Preparing the way to present his request for approbation of the OMI Rule to the Pope involved requests to various persons.
Visit to Bishop Caprano, secretary of the Propaganda, to alert him of the favours I must ask and dispose him not to refuse them. This prelate received me very well and promised me his assistance.
Roman Diary 7 December 1825, EO XVII
Some days later Eugene found out that the person responsible for making appointments with the Pope had forgotten all about him:
Before leaving the Vatican, I went up to the apartments of the Pope to learn if Bishop Barberini had asked for an audience for me; he had indeed forgotten. The occasion would have been splendid if I had only wished to see the Pope and kiss his feet; there was no one waiting to go in; I could have had myself presented, but I took care not to because, other than not foreseeing that I might go up to the papal apartments, I had not brought my petition, I did not presume that Cardinal de Gregorio would have seen him since he had promised to speak to him of me. So I preferred to wait, knowing how first impressions influence matters. For the rest, I do my best to leave it to God.
I have resolved to say holy Mass every day of the octave of the Holy Virgin for the intention of the grace that we seek. I do not neglect on the other hand the human means that must be used. If after that I do not succeed, I will have nothing to reproach myself with.
Eugene’s letter to Henri Tempier in Marseilles, 9 December 1825, EO VII n. 211
