He rose and shut his door, and then did what he had not done for years.

He kneeled down by his desk and prayed for the Divine Presence and wisdom to direct him.
He rose with the day before him, and his promise distinct and clear in his mind.

"Now for action," he seemed to say.

But he would be led by events as fast as they came on.
He opened his door and began the routine of the office work.

The managing editor had just come in and was at his desk in the adjoining room.