Brian Condon: Diary of James Alipius Goold, 1848-1886

Wednesday 3rd November. About 6 a.m. reached Marseilles. Took my passage in the only steamer leaving immediately for Civita Vecchia.

Sunday 7th November. Landed in Civita Vecchia at 10 a.m. Left by diligence at 11 for Rome, where we arrived about 10 at night. I proceeded at once to S. Maria in Posterula.

Wednesday 10th November. A heavy fall of snow. In the evening had a visit from Monsignor Talbot. He spoke of having received a long letter from Father McEncroe about the Australian mission, and that he expected him daily in Rome.

Thursday 18th November. Visited St. Paul's; was rather disappointed in it; it is magnificent but it wants something. However, it is not yet finished.

Friday 19th November. Went to the Vatican, where through the kindness of the curate I saw the vestments and sacred ornaments of His Holiness. The Tiaras are costly and beautiful. The one presented by Napoleon I is the most valuable; it is seldom used in consequence of its weight. That presented by the Queen of Spain, on the occasion of the Definition of the Immaculate Conception, is worthy of the donor and the receiver. It is seldom worn.