Padre Martini, as well as Farinelli, welcomed Wolfgang with sincere cordiality, and his agreeable and unaffected demeanor soon commended him to the good-will of these renowned men. His extraordinary endowments were quickly recognized and appreciated by them, and yet Padre Martini doubted whether the boy could pass the severe examination necessary for admission to the Academy. He did not conceal his doubts from his friend Farinelli. One day, after Wolfgang had called upon them, Padre Martini said to Farinelli: “This boy certainly is a wonder child and a rare flower of our beautiful art, but it is my duty to assign him the severest of tests, and I fear he is not skilful enough to succeed. ‘I fear,’ I repeat, for the lad has won my heart, and I shall be deeply grieved if he fail.” “I do not share your apprehensions,” replied Farinelli. “His career abroad, as well as the proofs of his ability at home, speaks for him. Paris, London, Holland, and Vienna have been captivated by this wonder child.” “Yes, ‘by this child,’” answered Padre Martini; “but Wolfgang is now leaving childhood. Although a boy, he is no longer a child, and he must now establish his claim as an artist. Though all the world may recognize him as such, he must first of all demonstrate it here. If our decision should elevate him to the rank of Cavaliere Filarmonico, his fame will be established. His piano, violin, and organ record cannot help him here. He must prove that he is a scientifically educated musician, and thoroughly grounded in counterpoint. It is this that makes me doubt.” “Well, we shall see,” replied Farinelli, who had greater confidence in the young man. “What test will you assign him?” “The most difficult one I know,” replied Padre Martini. “He must set an antiphon from the Antiphonarium, in four parts.”[23] It was Farinelli’s turn to be anxious, for the test was so hard that its accomplishment required an absolute and perfect knowledge of musical science. “You ought not to require that of him,” he said, with some emotion. “I must do it. He must submit to the most difficult test. The boy is yet very young, and the honor of the Academy is at stake,” replied Padre Martini, unmoved by his friend’s protest. “If he do not succeed it will be no disgrace for one so young, and he will have the consolation of knowing that older musicians have failed in like manner; but should he succeed in this hard contest, then, Farinelli, his fame will be as lofty and enduring as the stars.” “Manage this matter according to your best judgment,” replied Farinelli, for he realized that nothing could induce the resolute old master to change his purpose. “For my part I wish the boy success.” “Not more than I,” said Padre Martini, with emotion. “I love this child with my whole heart, and for that very reason I would have him accomplish something great.”