Neither rain nor snow touches it, and the storm spares it.

It has been abandoned by men hundreds of years, therefore the Blessed Virgin protects it from further decay." He seemed to be a long time coming to the house, but after another pause, he continued:-- "Half a league beyond the shrine a narrow road branches to the south.
Take it, and soon you will be in the midst of a forest, dark and wild.
The road will be dim and difficult to follow in its windings, but your horses will keep the way and will take you to a gate in the midst of the forest.

Enter by the gate and follow the road winding among the trees till you reach the double door or gate in the wall.

The house will be dark save in the third story of the stone tower, where you will see a star beaming in the window.

Raphael, my familiar spirit, will hold the star for your guidance.