In the excitement that followed Fra Antonio was forgotten by all but Fra
Giulio, who had been watching him closely as he made his way with
difficulty toward the low, arched passage which led in the direction of
the dormitory.
"Lean on me," said Fra Giulio, who stood barring the way.
"Nay," replied the other, who seemed scarcely able to stand, "I must
needs reach my cell; a sudden illness hath overtaken me."
But Fra Giulio, usually so compassionate that he was called "woman
hearted," did not move.
"Later a remedy shall be brought thee," he answered coldly. "Thou
hearest the great summons which none of our order may disobey; it is
rare and solemn to hear that call. Something of moment hath chanced.
_Ecco_, now we shall know!" he added in a tone of relief, as Fra
Gianmaria appeared from under the convent entrance, whither he had gone
to receive the Chief of the Ten, who now entered the great court with
him in formal state, with a secretary and attendants and an officer of
the guards.
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