“They, too, must have the protection of the law, and their actions must not be arbitrarily controlled.” “Excuse me, noble sire. The Italian cities manage their own affairs. The possessions claimed by the nobles were inherited from their ancestors. They associate freely with the common people, also, and yet these cities do not enjoy the blessings of freedom.” “That is true, but they mistake their real position and welfare. They dream of the glorious fame of ancient Rome, but they have not the slightest comprehension of its exalted virtues. Where will you find a Mucius, a Fabricius, or a Cincinnatus? But at every step you will find a Catiline, a Nero, or a Heliogabalus. ‘Freedom for us, but none for others,’ is the motto of the Lombardian cities, as it is of Rome. That is the cause of their decadence.” “And do you expect to maintain a powerful authority there?” “With God’s help, yes. I will curb their audacity, but will concede to them all their chartered rights. By demanding only what belongs to the sovereign, protecting the weak against the strong, and firmly and judiciously administering the government, there may be a successful result.” “But have you considered what obstacles the temporal and spiritual powers may place in your way? Should the latter oppose you, you will find that bans and interdicts are dangerous and far-reaching weapons.” “All honor to the princes of the Church who administer its sacred functions, but in all my relations with them the great Charles shall be my exemplar. Spiritual affairs shall be respected and protected, as they were by my great predecessor; but when unjustifiable encroachments are made upon imperial rights and privileges, I will resist them just as firmly as he did. Each must keep in his own place. I will take care not to interfere in spiritual matters when I have no right to do so.” “The union of spiritual and temporal authority has never been productive of good.” “For that very reason it is better for them to be separated. To the emperor, the sword; to the bishop, the Scriptures. If God helps me, and grants me the good fortune to win as sovereign such friends as I have as Frederick of Swabia, I shall not be uneasy.” Conrad knew what the Emperor meant. Honored by his confidence, he promised him anew his unchanging love and devotion. He pressed the extended hand of his royal friend and they separated. Frederick had an opportunity that very year to demonstrate his authority. Two Danish princes, who were contending for the crown left by their father, appeared at the Diet at Merseburg and requested the Emperor to arbitrate their claims. Frederick decided Canute should be king and Sven should be indemnified with territorial possessions. His decision was particularly approved by the Germans, because it made Denmark once more a vassal of Germany.