Leaning far back in his cushioned seat, he could just catch a glimpse of the people as he passed, and his quick eyes recognised many, both high and low.

But he did not care to show himself, for he felt himself disliked, and deep in his finely organised nature there lay a sensitiveness which was wounded by the popular hatred.

It hurt him to see the lowering glances of the poor man, and to return the forced bow of the rich man who feared him.

He often longed to be able to explain many things to them both, to the rich and to the poor; and then, knowing how impossible it was that he should be understood by either, he sighed somewhat bitterly, and hid himself still deeper in his carriage.

Few men in the midst of the world have stood so wholly alone as Cardinal Antonelli.
To-day, however, he had an appointment which he anticipated with a sort of interest quite new to him.