"But what is my part in all this ?" he asked: "why does Monsignor Nani seem to take an interest in me?
Why is he mixed up in the proceedings against my book ?" "Oh! one never knows, one never knows exactly!" replied Don Vigilio, waving his arms.

"One thing I can say, that he only knew of the affair when the denunciations of the three bishops were already in the hands of Father Dangelis; and I have also learnt that he then tried to stop the proceedings, which he no doubt thought both useless and impolitic.

But when a matter is once before the Congregation it is almost impossible for it to be withdrawn, and Monsignor Nani must also have come into collision with Father Dangelis who, like a faithful Dominican, is the passionate adversary of the Jesuits.

It was then that he caused the Contessina to write to Monsieur de la Choue, requesting him to tell you to hasten here in order to defend yourself, and to arrange for your acceptance of hospitality in this mansion, during your stay." This revelation brought Pierre's emotion to a climax.

"You are sure of that ?" he asked.
"Oh! quite sure.