TOPICS OF THE DAY.

Marlborough Express, Volume XXXVII, Issue 169, 18 July 1903, Page 1

TOPICS OF THE DAY.

Bishop Gbimes, of Christchurcb, who, since his consecration in 1878, has visited the Pope on six occasions, has been giving an interviewer some interesting impressions of the great personality whose light is slowly failing On his first, as indeed on every, interview ho was struck with the Pope's wonderful perception, his marvelloua intellect), his commanding and noble appearance. Of medium height, his rather spare figure and noble bearing made him appear much taller than he really was. His face was like alabaster, intellectually lighted, his deep set eyes seeming to search one through and through, and in his presence one felt as if the innermost thoughts wore being read without an effort; and yet there was a mildness in the eye and'a softness in the fine face and features that at the same time marked his unselfish and humanitarian instincts. In his presence there was a feeling as of being in the company of a giant mind—of a great and good man. There was a feeling, too, especially in the Bishop's later visits, on first coming into his presence, that it would be unwise to stay or converse for any length of time, in case ho should bocome worried, for he looked so frail; but this feeling steadily passed away as the Pope evinced a desiro to continue the con versation. It was here that he displayed his deep interest in and knowledge of social and political affairs, and his warm, advocacy-, of the rights; of labor. On his Lordship's first visit, the Pope, knowing that ho hod just come from Ireland j at once plunged into Irish politics and the condition of that country, showing quit© as much acquaintance with the condition of affairs as if he had been a resident and personally was acquainted with the land and tho people. Again, when he visited Rome after being in New Zealand, his Holiness displayed a marvel lous knowledge of our colony, discussing its problems and conditions as if he had made them a lifetime study. His memory was of an extraordinary kind, and of this one instance will suffice. It was five years since he lasb visited his Holiness, yet last year, when a Christchurch gentleman had an audience, the Pope inquired after hi 3 (the Bishop's) health, remarking that he hoped he was in better health than he appeared to be when be last saw him, and recalling several incidents. When it is remembered that thousands are constantly visiting him1, the occurrence is certainly remarkable. This interest in the social.problems of the day was a feature of his life. If the term "socialist" conld be applied, remarked Bishop Grimes, he should say the Pope was a true Christian Socialist, and a reformer. "No Popo in modern times has been so admired by all classes as he. He strove to solve the labor pro blem, and suggested tho true remedy of morality and religion. His vitality is wonderful, and this fact King Edward made mention of the other day," Where a principle was involved the Pope was firmness itself, conceding to no one, but was ever a peacemaker where peace could be.obtained without much sacrifice.