Patriotism, dead everywhere else, still lived in the heart of that forgotten multitude lying silent and humble under the feet of its masters.

The monarchy had been their friend, their only friend.

The Church had deserted them, and joined their enemies the nobles.

But to the people, the name King expressed gratitude and hope; and they loved it.
If a great spreading tree full of verdure had arisen in a day out of the barren breast of Mother Earth, it would scarcely have been a greater miracle that what really happened when a child of the soil, a girl, rising triumphant over the disabilities of age, sex, birth, and condition, saved France from destruction.

Summoned by celestial voices, by angels whom she not only heard but saw, Joan of Arc started upon her mission of rescue for France! When this daughter of the people, this peasant from Domremy, was admitted to the presence of the dauphin, it is said that in amusement and in order to test the reality of her mission, Charles exchanged dress with one of his courtiers.