I
The Pope awoke next morning in the dreary hour of cock-crow, and rang for his valet while he was still in bed. When the valet came he was greatly agitated.
"What's amiss, Gaetanino?" said the Pope.
"A madman, your Holiness," said the valet. "They wanted me to awaken your Holiness, and I wouldn't do it. A madman is down at the bronze gate, and insists on seeing you."
At this moment the Maestro di Camera came into the room. He also was greatly agitated.
"What is this about some poor madman at the bronze gate?" asked the Pope.
"I have come to tell your Holiness," said the master of the household. "The man declares he is pursued, and demands sanctuary."
"Who is he?"
"He says he will give his name to the Holy Father only; but his face...."
"The man's mad," said the valet.