The pope's statement reminds me of an excerpt from St. Augustine's Confessions, where St. Augustine describes feeling guilty for being moved to tears while watching a play. His point was that there is so much suffering in the real world that he didn't want to waste his time feeling sorry for fictional characters. I think there's some truth to that.

As a Fleming alum ('01), I admit my initial reaction was outrage. But Fleming House did steal the cannon from a local San Marino military academy in the first place back in the 80's. And for you history buffs, the cannon is from the War of 1812.

So, congratulations, MIT hackers. Your theft also came at an opportune time since Fleming House is currently under a major renovation and the cannon was moved temporarily in front of the MOSH's house, unguarded by the current Flems. Ironically, the MOSH's residence is right across the street from the Security Office.

I hope it eventually makes it back to Caltech. The Orange Walk just won't be the same without it.