A profound silence reigned throughout the whole assembly.
Rising with all the gravity he could assume, but still with visible agitation, one of the judges, named Houmain, judge-Advocate of Orleans, read a sort of indictment in a voice so low and hoarse that it was impossible to follow it.

He made himself heard only when what he had to say was intended to impose upon the minds of the people.

He divided the evidence into two classes: one, the depositions of seventy-two witnesses; the other, more convincing, that resulting from "the exorcisms of the reverend fathers here present," said he, crossing himself.
Fathers Lactantius, Barre, and Mignon bowed low, repeating the sacred sign.
"Yes, my lords," said Houmain, addressing the judges, "this bouquet of white roses and this manuscript, signed with the blood of the magician, a counterpart of the contract he has made with Lucifer, and which he was obliged to carry about him in order to preserve his power, have been recognized and brought before you.

We read with horror these words written at the bottom of the parchment: 'The original is in hell, in Lucifer's private cabinet.'" A roar of laughter, which seemed to come from stentorian lungs, was heard in the throng.

The president reddened, and made a sign to the archers, who in vain endeavored to discover the disturber.