His Holiness wishes to see you privately, without taking anybody else into his confidence.

Listen attentively.

It is now two o'clock in the morning.

Well, this very day, at nine in the evening precisely, you must present yourself at the Vatican and at every door ask for Signor Squadra.

You will invariably be allowed to pass.
Signor Squadra will be waiting for you upstairs, and will introduce you.
And not a word, mind; not a soul must have the faintest suspicion of these things." Pierre's happiness and gratitude at last flowed forth.