ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the manuscript of thirty-six folios bound in parchment is a combination diary/account book compiled by one of the most long-lived of papal singers, Giovanni Antonio Merlo, who joined the chapel after having served in the Cappella Giulia, and remained until his death. Clerical preferments in Italy, France, and Spain had long been conferred upon members of the chapel, of course with the understanding that they would not have to take up residence in order to enjoy the income. By far the most intriguing entries concerning the chapel appear on folios 30' and 31 of CS 651, and may shed some light on the pieces actually sung by papal singers in 1568. Finally, the diary ends with a number of miscellaneous notes; a homily to patience, information concerning indulgences, fragments of poetry, and some home remedies, two of which are given for the benefit of those who may find themselves stranded and afflicted in Italy some day.
