9: THE
BLIZZARD
The girl and the boy drew a little nearer to Father Benjamin. Their faith showed in their eyes, as though nothing ill could befall them while they were under the guardianship of a priest from the Hospice. The Augustinian, their actions said, might even halt the blizzard by raising his hand and commanding it to stop.
But the elderly man, who had spent his life in the mountains and knew the real danger of such storms, cried out in fear. His fright communicated itself to the woman ... and spread from her to the boy and girl, who would not have been afraid at all had they not seen for themselves that their elders were frightened.
Father Benjamin took instant, firm command.
"Have you never before seen snow fall?" he thundered. "Be quiet and act sensibly!"
"Yes, Holy Father," the elderly man said humbly.
Father Benjamin turned to Franz. "I will guide. You bring up the rear with Caesar."
Franz fought to keep his voice from trembling as he replied, "Yes, Father Benjamin."