He read every thought of theirs in their open countenances, and he knew that they were in thorough accord with him.

But Paul, as usual, appealed to him most of all--the deeply spiritual quality in the lad was evident to the priest and reader of men.
Father Montigny took a little leather-bound book from under his black robe and stood up.

The others stood up also.

Then the priest read a prayer.

It was in Latin and the five--Paul included--did not understand a word of it, but not a particle of its solemnity and effect was lost on that account.
It was to Paul, in many ways, the most impressive scene in which he had ever taken part, the noble, inspired face of the priest, the solemn words, and no other sound except the peaceful murmur made by the flowing of the great river.