A solemn contestation of diverse popes, for the advancing of their supremacyA solemne contestation of diuerse popes, for the aduaunsing of theyr supremacie

What can be more effectually spoken to set forth the majesty of my jurisdiction which ⟨image 36⟩I received immediately of the Lord, of the Lord I say, and of no man.¹ For where as Constantine the emperor gave to Sylvester, enduing him with this possession and patrimony,^R that is so to be expounded and taken not so much for a Donation, as to be counted for a restitution made of it, which tyrannously was taken from him before. And again where as I have given at sundry times to Ludovicus and other Emperors of my temporal lands and possessions, yet that was done, not so much for any recognising of homage to them as for keeping peace with them. ⟨image 37⟩For I owe to Emperors no dew obedience that they can claim,^S but they owe to me as to their superior. And therefore for a diversity betwixt there degree and mine, in their consecration they take their unction on the arm, I on the head.^T And as I am superior to them, so am I superior to all Laws, and free from all constitutions. Which am able of my self, and by my interpretation to prefer equity being not written, before the law written.^V Having all laws within the chest of my breast, as is aforesaid. And what so ever this ⟨image 37⟩my sea shall enact, approve or disprove all men ought to approve or reprove the same, with out either judging, disputing, doubting, or retracting. Such is the privilege given of Christ in behalf of Peter to the church of Rome, ^Xthat what Country so ever, kingdom or province, choosing to them selves Bishops & ministers, although they agree with all other christs faithful people in the name of Jesus, that is, in faith and charity, believing in the same God, and in Christ his true Son, and in the holy ghost, having also the same Creed, the same Evangelists and