The ultramontanes were hailed with a loud burst of scornful laughter. The commissary, advancing to the gate, beckoned silence.
"In the name of the law, clear the place!" cried he.
The mob scoffed and yelled.
"Fetch out the slaves of the priest--make them run the gauntlet--down with the Jesuits!"
At this moment, a man was noticed elbowing his way through the crowd; presently Hans Shund stepped before the embarrassed guardian of public order.
"Three cheers for the magistrate!" vociferated the mob.
Shund made a signal. Profound silence followed.
"Gentlemen," spoke the chief magistrate, in a tone of entreaty, "have goodness to disperse."
Repeated cheers were raised, then the accumulation of corrupt elements began to dissolve and flow off into every direction.
"I deeply regret this commotion of which I but a moment ago received intelligence," said Shund. "The excitement of the people is attributable solely to the imprudent conduct of Morgenroth."