A long silence followed.

Don Paolo could not find words to express his admiration, and his wonder was mixed with a profound feeling of devotion.

The amazing reality of the figure, clothed at the same time in a sort of divine glory, impressed itself upon him as he gazed, and roused that mystical train of religious contemplation which is both familiar and dear to devout persons.

He lost himself in his thoughts, and his refined features showed as in a mirror the current of his meditation.

The agony of the Saviour of mankind was renewed before him, culminating in the sacrifice upon the cross.