'My daughters, you have come hither through the gloom of night and
over rough places, led by a faithful guide, whom you followed
without doubt or fear. You will have your reward. The darkness, the
stones that made your feet to stumble, what are these but symbols of
your spiritual state? In your blindness, you sought one blind as
yourselves, to follow whom was to walk in darkness eternal. But a
beneficent Power has watched over you, guiding your steps in the
better way, whereof you recked not.'
Aurelia and Veranilda had raised their heads, and were gazing at
him, in fearful astonishment.
'Be not troubled,' he went on, taking a step forward and speaking in
a voice strong and clear. 'Though unworthy, I am a priest of the
faith in which you, Aurelia, were baptized. In my hands you will
suffer no harm, no indignity. Be still, be silent. Behind you stand
those who will not permit you to flee, but who will conduct you
hence as if they were your own attendants if you do but follow me,
as you needs must, without cry or resistance.'
Aurelia turned and saw a number of figures whom the dim light showed
to be men with weapons.
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