Then one of the priests ventured to come forward, and said in a tremulous voice: "Master, have you no word of counsel for us ?" "Do not call me master!" Benedetto replied, still much agitated.

"Pray that light may be shed upon these young men, upon our shepherds, and also upon me!" When he had left the room, a crackle of voices arose, some resonant, others short and hoarse, for astonishment still held these agitated minds in check.

Presently, here and there, the intense excitement burst forth, and spread in every direction.

Exclamations of admiration broke from all lips, some praising this or that expression the speaker had used, this or that thought he had uttered, while others remarked upon his glance, his accent, or marvelled at the spirit of holiness which shone in his face, and which seemed to emanate from his very hands.
Soon, however, the master of the house dismissed the guests, and though his apologies were profuse, and his words very gracious, still his haste was such as to be almost discourteous.

As soon as he was alone he unlocked the door, and, pushing it open, stood bowing on the threshold.
"Ladies!" said he, and threw the door wide open.
A swarm of ladies fluttered into the empty hall.