" Louis consulted Pope Clement IV, who at first
tried to discourage the perilous enterprise; but finally the
Pontiff gave his approval, and while admitting no others as
yet into his designs, Louis quietly made preparation and
awaited the favorable hour.
At last, the great Parliament of France being assembled in
the hall of the Louvre, the King entered, bearing in his
hand the crown of thorns of Christ. At sight of this, the
whole assembly became aware of the monarch's intentions,
which he now fully made known, exhorting all who heard him
to take the cross. A sad surprise fell upon the reluctant
parliament; but Louis was strongly seconded by the Pope's
legate, and many of the prelates, nobles, and knights
received the cross.
Notwithstanding the deep regret which spread among his
people, who felt the need of their sovereign's presence for
keeping peace and order in the kingdom, and also feared for
his own safety--his health being greatly impaired--there was
profound respect for the motives of Louis and general
acquiescence in his determination.
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