Don't believe that.

But please give us your blessing." "Yes, give us your blessing, give us your blessing!" was repeated by many voices.
Meanwhile, from the narrow stairway the impatient voices could be heard of those who wished to come up, and could not.

Benedetto said something in an undertone to Don Clemente.

Don Clemente ordered those present to file past the bed and then leave the room, that the others might do the same.
One by one they all passed.

They were poor people from the Testaccio--workmen, clerks from shops, women who sold fruit, pedlars and beggars.