They quailed; their attitude acknowledged him the master.
"Spare the churches," said Visconti, "and see that all relics are brought with due honor to Milan. Da Ribera, you ventured furthest into Novara; saw you any churches?"
"One, my lord, is saved: the church of Santa Claire."
"We tried to rescue the monks——" struck in Martin della Torre. "They refused our succor, and returned into the flames—screaming——"
He paused.
"What?" demanded Visconti.
"Somewhat about God's curse," answered della Torre. "Their execration was not pleasant."
"Had you not been there, you had not heard it," said de Lana. "And a few crazy——hark!"
There came a great noise from without, and the trampling of crowding feet.
"Another company is joining us," remarked Visconti.