Lorenzo de Medici made confession to Savonarola, on his
death-bed, of three special sins, involving plunder done by
him to Florence and its citizens. While he confest, Savonarola
consoled him by repeating, “God is merciful.” When Lorenzo had
finished, he demanded three things of him before absolution
could be given. First, that he should have a living faith in
God’s mercy. Lorenzo replied that he had such a faith. Second,
that he should restore what he had unjustly acquired. Lorenzo,
after hesitating, consented. Then Savonarola drew himself up and
said, “Give Florence back her liberties.” Lorenzo turned his
face to the wall and uttered not a word, and Savonarola left the
room without granting the absolution desired. (Text.)
(1136)
=Forgiveness of Sin=--See SIN CONSCIOUSNESS.