Possessed by the idea that the devil is subtle and woman corrupt, carefully and according to prescribed rules he proceeded to solve a difficult problem.

It was generally no easy matter to recognise one possessed by the devil and to distinguish between a demoniac and a good Christian.

Very great saints had not been spared the trial to which Jeanne was to be subjected.
Having recited the formula and sprinkled the holy water, Messire Jean Fournier expected, if the damsel were possessed, to see her struggle, writhe, and endeavour to take flight.

In such a case he must needs have made use of more powerful formulae, have sprinkled more holy water, and made more signs of the cross, and by such means have driven out the devils until they were seen to depart with a terrible noise and a noxious odour, in the shape of dragons, camels, or fish.[410] [Footnote 410: Migne, _Dictionnaire des sciences occultes_, Paris, 2 vols.

in large 8vo, under the word _Exorcisme_.] There was nothing suspicious in Jeanne's attitude.