Benedict III., Pope, 855–858

The papal election which followed the death of Leo the Fourth threw the city into great confusion. The majority of the Romans chose Benedict, Cardinal of S. Calixtus, and conducted him in procession to the Lateran. The decree of election was signed by clergy and nobility, in order that ‘ according to ancient custom ’ it might then be presented to the Emperor for ratification. Nicholas, Bishop of Anagni, and the Magister Militum Mercurius were chosen as the bearers. But while on their way Arsenius of Eugubium succeeded in changing their determination. Arsenius was the friend of Cardinal Anastasius, who although suspended by Leo the Fourth, still remained powerful, and, striving to reach the papal crown, maintained a party in Rome. Arsenius won the nuncios over to his side, and at the court of Lewis they upheld the cause of Anastasius. Returning to Rome, where the cardinal had already arrived, they announced the approach of the Imperial envoys, and concerted their plans with Anastasius and his faction. The heads of the party were the Magistri Militum Gregory and Christophorus, and the Bishops Radoald of Portus and Agatho of Todi. Meanwhile the messengers of the Emperor, Counts Bernhard and Adalbert, arrived at Horta.