These were the first stirrings of the breath of the coming storm which in eight successive waves was soon to sweep over Europe.

The way was preparing for the great event of the Middle Ages.
Whatever its motives, the abstaining from slaughter, and the building of cathedrals and monasteries and abbeys, was weaving a mantle of beauty for France, which she still proudly wears.

And the greatest of the builders was the Duke of Normandy; and it is to his dukedom the art student turns for the most perfect blending of grace and grandeur, characteristic of the early style.

The marvel to which this is intended to draw attention is the preeminent position swiftly attained in France by this brilliant race, in every department of living.

It would seem that France did not adopt this terrible child from the north, but that he adopted France, and changed and gave color to her whole future.