Rensselaer Journal, Volume 12, Number 40, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 12 March 1903 — POPE’S HEALTH CAUSES ALARM [ARTICLE]

POPE’S HEALTH CAUSES ALARM

Condition of Venerable Pontiff Does Not Allay Fear of Vatican Officials. CARDINALS REMAIN IN ROME Postponement of Their Departure for Distant Posts Gives Rise to Rumors That Delay Result of Leo’s Serious illness. Rome cablegram: There is growing alarm over tne health of the pope. The condition of the pontiff, as shown on the day of his coronation, was not calculated to allay the tears of Vatican officials, and circumstances since then have tended to increase rather than decrease the general anxiety. This is demonstrated by the fact that some of the cardinals who have come to Rome from a distance have postponed their departure indefinitely. Statement Is Significant. In the Osservatore Romano, the Vatican organ, an official note appears stating that on the advice of his physician the pope has decided to take several days of absolute rest, and see no one. This statement is regarded as significant by the general public. Dr. Lapponi and the Vatican officials are doing everything in their power to create the impression that the pope’s health is comparatively good They make the following explanation of the' note in the Osservatore Romano. ~- Yields to Physicians. The pope, they say, never succeeded in getting rid of the cold which caused a slight cough and hoarseness. Dr. Lapponi, on visiting his holiness, found that he was somewhat better, but frankly told him that he must either consent to cure his cold 6r he would run the risk of something serious. The pontiff thereupon gave way and promised to suspend his audiences. To save annoyance, Dr. Lapponi advised the pope to publicly announce this determination through the Osservatore Romano. All in all, the condition of the pope, taking into consideration his advanced age, is not without danger and is causing considerable anxiety. ' *