These were men and women who had learned at last that power comes from above, and their title to rule came not from their subjects but from the Supreme Ruler of all--shepherds without sheep, captains without soldiers to command.

It was piteous--horribly piteous, yet inspiring.

The act of faith was so sublime; and Percy's heart quickened as he understood it.

These, then, men and women like himself, were not ashamed to appeal from man to God, to assume insignia which the world regarded as playthings, but which to them were emblems of supernatural commission.

Was there not mirrored here, he asked himself, some far-off shadow of One Who rode on the colt of an ass amid the sneers of the great and the enthusiasm of children ?...
* * * * * It was yet more kindling as the mass went on, and he saw the male sovereigns come down to do their services at the altar, and to go to and fro between it and the Throne.