The Amulet

Five officers of justice appeared at the door.

"What are your commands?" asked the chief.

"Bind the signor's hands behind his back!"

"Heavens! bind my hands like a thief!" exclaimed Turchi.

"Bind the hands of a nobleman?" repeated the chief in surprise.

"Execute my order immediately! This nobleman is an infamous robber and a

cowardly assassin. Cast him in the deepest dungeon; he shall pay the

penalty of his crime upon the scaffold."

The command was promptly obeyed, and Turchi, in spite of his resistance,

was dragged from the room followed by the bailiff.

Mary and Geronimo wept with joy. Deodati claimed their attention saying: "My dear children, let us fulfil a sacred duty of gratitude. God has so

visibly protected innocence that the feeling of His presence in our midst

overpowers me. Your hopes will become a reality. Let us pray!"

He knelt before the crucifix, bowed his head and joined his hands.

Geronimo and Mary knelt beside the old man, Mr. Van de Werve behind them.

For a long time they lifted their grateful hearts in thanksgiving to the

God of goodness.