As to the remainder of the Audience, the Sermon might have been omitted altogether, certainly without their being disappointed, and very probably without their perceiving the omission.
Whatever was the occasion, it is at least certain that the Capuchin Church had never witnessed a more numerous assembly.

Every corner was filled, every seat was occupied.

The very Statues which ornamented the long aisles were pressed into the service.

Boys suspended themselves upon the wings of Cherubims; St.Francis and St.Mark bore each a spectator on his shoulders; and St.Agatha found herself under the necessity of carrying double.

The consequence was, that in spite of all their hurry and expedition, our two newcomers, on entering the Church, looked round in vain for places.
However, the old Woman continued to move forwards.