The favour and protection of the Saints
be yours, in that you have believed the words of one who spake of
them, and have been obedient to the command sent to you from them!"
She ceased speaking; but still continued to gaze upward with rapt
and earnest eyes. Every head was bared, and we all gazed upon her,
as upon one who looks through the open Gate of Heaven, and to whom
is vouchsafed a glimpse of the Beatific Vision.
Then clear and sweet her voice rose once more. Her face was
transfigured; a great light seemed to shine either upon or from it,
no man could say which.
"O Lord God, Father of the Heavenlies, O sweet Jesu, Saviour of
mankind, O Blessed Mother, Queen of Heaven, O Holy Michael,
Archangel of the shining sword, O Blessed Saints--Catherine and
Margaret, beloved of Heaven--give to these, Your children, Your
blessing, Your help, Your protection, Your counsel! Be with us in
our journeyings--in our uprising and down lying, in our going out
and coming in--in all we put our hands unto! Be with us and uphold
us, and bring us in safety to our journey's end; for we go forth in
the strength which is from above, and which can never fail us till
the work appointed be accomplished!"
Then we rode forth, out of the courtyard, and into the streets of
the town, which were thronged and lined with townsfolk, and with
people from the surrounding villages, who had crowded in to see the
wonderful Maid, and witness the outgoing of the little band which
was to accompany her to Chinon.
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