I
The Pope awoke next morning in the dreary hour of cock-crow, and rang
for his valet while he was still in bed. When the valet came he was
greatly agitated.
"What's amiss, Gaetanino?" said the Pope.
"A madman, your Holiness," said the valet. "They wanted me to awaken
your Holiness, and I wouldn't do it. A madman is down at the bronze
gate, and insists on seeing you."
At this moment the Maestro di Camera came into the room. He also was
greatly agitated.
"What is this about some poor madman at the bronze gate?" asked the
Pope.
"I have come to tell your Holiness," said the master of the household.
"The man declares he is pursued, and demands sanctuary."
"Who is he?"
"He says he will give his name to the Holy Father only; but his
face...."
"The man's mad," said the valet.
"Be quiet, Gaetanino."
"His face," continued the Maestro di Camera, "is known to the Swiss
Guard, and when they sent up word...."