Check the first page, 4th post for a player list.
Also, the Papal States is still an important nation, yes, but in this era less so. Especially since it was occupied on and off by France during the Napoleonic Wars. Although, it would be interesting to have someone play as the Pope.
To start to flow of diplomacy, here's some NPC diplo.
From: Tripoli
To: United States of America
While Tripoli has no wish for conflict with America, we do not want to be shortchanged either. Therefore, for the modest fee of 1EP per year, we will gladly rescind our declaration of war against you, and continue to offer our services in protecting your merchants from the pirates that roam the Mediterranean.
To: France
From: Toussaint L'Ouverture, President of Haiti
Our government does not wish to come into conflict with the glorious Republic of France. However, we do not wish to lose our independence or return to the horrors of slavery. Therefore, if you consent to recognize our independence and the end of slavery in Haiti, we will continue to faithfully serve France.