But he, on the
contrary, felt that the word of truth is the word of eternal life, and,
concentrating his thoughts once more within himself, he closed his eyes
and prayed with intense fervour, as for two days he had prayed that the
Spirit might awaken this word in his breast, might bring it to his lips
when he should stand before the Pope.
He had expected some one between eight o'clock and a quarter past. The
quarter had already struck, and no one had appeared. He turned and gazed
at the bronze portal. Only one wing of it was open, and he could see
lights beyond. From time to time small groups of dwarfish figures passed
into it, as tiny, heedless moths might fly into the yawning jaws of a
lion. At last a priest approached the portal from within and beckoned.
Benedetto drew near. The priest said:
"You have come about Sant' Anselmo?"
That was the question which had been agreed upon. When Benedetto had
assented, the priest signed to him to enter.
"Please come this way," said he.
Benedetto followed him. They passed between the pontifical guards, who
gave the priest the military salute.
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