LONG VIGIL

Wairarapa Times-Age, 10 February 1939, Page 6

LONG VIGIL

CROWDS THRONG CHURCHES PRAYING FOR THE POPE’S RECOVERY. SERIES OF ATTACKS. (Received This Day, 1.10 p.m.) ROME, February 9. The churches were thronged tonight with the faithful praying for the Pope’s recovery. The Vatican prepared for a long vigil. His Holiness had passed a fairly good night, but during the morning it was noticed that the indisposition dating from Sunday persisted, with a gen-

oral weakening, accompanied by. slight fever. An attack of cardiac asthma occurred at 4.20 p.m. and lasted until 5 p.m.

The Pope gradually recovered under die care of Dr Rocchi, who is in attendance owing to the illness of the Pope’s personal doctor, Professor Milani.

A second heart attack occurred at 7.30 p.m., after which his Holiness was unable -to speak. It was feared that the last moment had come, but Dr Rocchi, now assisted by Dr Bianchicesa, administered an injection, after which the Pope had a slight rest.

Semi-official sources state that the attack lasted forty minutes. There was only one thought as night fell: “Will his heart stand up to the strain.” During the evening rumours that the Pope was dead caused crowds to assemble. Many cardinals and bishops called at the Vatican to inquire. ‘ ADVERSE REPORT CONDITION REMAINS VERY SERIOUS. (Received This Day, 11.20 a.m.) ROME, February 9. At. 10 p.m., G.M.T., the Pope’s condition was reported to be very serious.