Luther had commenced a new life. The uselessness of the cloister had been succeeded by great activity. The liberty, the labour, the constant activity to which he could devote himself at Wittemberg, completely restored his internal harmony and peace. He was now in his place, and the work of God was soon to exhibit its majestic step. CHAP. VI. Journey to Rome--A Convent on the Pô--Sickness at Bologna--Remembrances in Rome--Superstitious Devotion--Profaneness of the Clergy--Conversation--Disorders in Rome--Biblical Studies--Pilate's Stair--Influence on his Faith and on the Reformation--The Gate of Paradise--Luther's Confession. Luther was teaching both in his academic chair and in the church, when his labours were interrupted. In 1510, or, according to some, not till 1511 or 1512, he was sent to Rome. Seven convents of his order having differed on certain points with the vicar-general,[198] the activity of Luther's mind, the power of his eloquence, and his talent for discussion, made him be selected to plead the cause of these seven monasteries before the pope.[199] This Divine dispensation was necessary to Luther, for it was requisite that he should know Rome. Full of the prejudices and illusions of the cloister, he had always represented it to himself as the seat of holiness. [198] "Quod septem conventus a vicario in quibusdam dissentirent." (Cochlœus, 7.) [199] "Quod esset acer ingenio et ad contradicendum audax et vehemens." (Cochlœus, ii.) Because he was of a sharp wit, and bold and vehement in reply.