"By a test."
"What test?"
No man listening could have said what mood the Emperor was in; yet the guest replied with an appearance of rising courage: "A trial, to find all the other things entering into Faith which Your Majesty and Your Majesty's lords and subjects are willing to lay down for God's sake."
With a peremptory gesture Constantine silenced the stir and rustle in the chamber. "It is right boldly put," he said.
"But none the less respectfully. My Lord, I am striving to be understood."
"You speak of a trial. To what end?"
"One Article of Faith, the all-essential of Universal Brotherhood in Religion."
"A magnificent conception! But is it practicable?"
Fortunately or unfortunately for the Prince, an officer that moment made way through the courtiers, and whispered to the Dean, who at once addressed himself to the Emperor.
"I pray pardon, but it pleased Your Majesty to bid me notify you when it is time to make ready for the Mystery to-night. The hour is come; besides which a messenger from Scholarius waits for an interview."