Not knowing, in the helplessness of my ignorance, what I should do, I remained as I was, still and silent, for a time that seemed endless.

At last, overcome by some emotion which I could not at the moment understand, I slowly sank to my knees and bowed my head.

Covering my face with my hands, I tried to recall the prayers of my youth.

It was not, I am certain, that fear in any form had come upon me, or that I hesitated or faltered in my intention.

That much I know now; I knew it even then.