Then on the right was the tribune of the Knights of Malta, where the Grand Master stood amidst a group of commanders: while across the nave rose the diplomatic tribune where Pierre perceived the ambassadors of all the Catholic nations, resplendent in gala uniforms covered with gold lace.

However, the young priest's eyes were ever returning to the crowd, the great surging throng in which the three thousand pilgrims were lost amidst the multitude of other spectators.

And yet as the Basilica was so vast that it could easily contain eighty thousand people, it did not seem to be more than half full.

People came and went along the aisles and took up favourable positions without impediment.

Some could be seen gesticulating, and calls rang out above the ceaseless rumble of voices.