"My people," he called to them, "do not be afraid. Do not hide yourselves. Do not kneel to these troopers. You have done no wrong."
"I forbid you to address the crowd," said the officer. "Get you back into your house."
"What is my offence?"
"You will learn in good time," said the commandant. "Get you into your presbytery."
"My place is with my people."
The officer, impatient, struck him on the chest with the pommel of his sword.
Two carabineers thrust him back into the passage.
"No law justifies your conduct," he said coldly, "or authorises you to sever me from my flock."
"The sabre is law here," said the lieutenant in command.
"It is the only law known anywhere in this kingdom," said Don Silverio.