"Who art thou, and whence dost thou come?"
Bernardo put his hand into his bosom, and gave him what was then the rules of the Order. This was in other words the Divine commission that Francis had received through the Gospel for that February day, "Go ye forth and preach the gospel, &c."
The doctor read it all through and then, turning to some of his friends who were standing by, said—
"Truly, here is the most perfect state of religion I have ever heard of; this man and his companions are the holiest men I have ever met with in this world! Guilty indeed are those who insult him! We ought, on the contrary, to honor him as a true friend of God!"
Then addressing Bernardo, he said—
"If it is thy wish to found a convent in this town, in which thou mayst serve God, I will most willingly help thee."
Bernardo thanked him, and said—
"I believe it is our Saviour Jesus Christ who hast I inspired thee with this good intention, I most willingly accept the offer, to the honor of Christ."
Then the doctor took them home with him and entertained them, and presented them with a convenient building, which he furnished at his own expense.
In a short time, Bernardo was much sought after, on account of the holiness, together with the brilliancy of his sermons. The whole town was at his feet, people came from far and near to hear him, and thousands were converted.