"On my own responsibility solely; but if my request is granted, many will be benefited by my work."
"Have you no abettors? You came here in Don Agostino's coach."
"I am Don Agostino's dear and intimate friend, and it is not much that he should lend me his coach. I have many friends in Rome."
"I know it," said the Jesuit cordially, "and among them the Order of Jesus is not the least sincere."
Inglesant bowed, and there was a slight pause. Then the General said,—
"What do you demand?"
"I demand spiritual freedom—the freedom of silence."
"Freedom will be abused."
"Not by me nor by my friends. We pledge ourselves to unbroken silence. All we demand is freedom to worship God in private as He Himself shall lead us. We ask for no change in public doctrine. We seek no proselytes. In fact, we confine ourselves to one desire, the sacrament without confession."
The Jesuit made no reply, but continued to look fixedly into Inglesant's face.