Materials for a penal
action are being prepared and invented."
The silent lady shuddered, and opened her lips at last.
"How can that be possible?" she said.
"My dear lady," said the Professor, "you little know of what some of
these _intransigenti_, these non-concessionists in priestly robes, are
capable. The secular non-concessionists are lambs compared to them. They
are going to make use of an unfortunate accident which took place at
Jenne. Now, however, we are greatly encouraged by a fresh incident, of
which it would not be wise to speak to many, without discriminating, but
which is most important."
The Professor paused a moment, enjoying the lively curiosity he had
awakened, and which, though they did not speak, shone in the eager eyes
of the two ladies.
"The other day," he continued, "Cardinal----'s secretary, a young
German priest, went to Sant' Anselmo to confer with the monks. In
consequence of this visit Benedetto was summoned to Sant' Anselmo, where
the Benedictines hold him in great affection and esteem. He was asked
if he did not intend to pay homage to His Holiness, and beg for an
audience.
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