However, this project had not yet been carried into effect.
"After all," the Count concluded with a laugh, "every pope has to die some day, especially when his death is needful for the welfare of the Church.

Isn't that so, Abbe ?" Santobono, whom he addressed, had a moment previously lowered his eyes as if to contemplate the little basket of figs which he held on his lap with as much care as if it had been the Blessed Sacrament.

On being questioned in such a direct, sharp fashion he could not do otherwise than look up.
However, he did not depart from his prolonged silence, but limited his answer to a slow nod.
"And it is God alone, and not poison, who causes one to die.

Is that not so, Abbe ?" repeated Prada.

"It is said that those were the last words of poor Monsignor Gallo before he expired in the arms of his friend Cardinal Boccanera." For the second time Santobono nodded without speaking.