I shook my head in bewilderment.

Doctor Pasqua, this pestilence has been sent to punish man for our sins, Don Marco said. As mortals, we are destined to sin and sin again. The Lord has tasked us with preserving his messengers. For the time when atonement is again required.

I know nothing of this superstitious nonsense, Giuseppe interrupted. However, I will build the rats a crypt so secure and impenetrable that they will still be here when Gesù Cristo returns for the Second Coming.

I was tempted to argue, but my issue was far more pressing than the fate of these vermin, whether blessed or cursed. Instead, I asked Don Marco if there was somewhere we could speak in private.

He led me inside the empty Warming House and sat me down at the long table. Don Marco explained that all of the brothers, except those in prayer or in the scriptorium, were participating in the construction. He told me that there were no newly afflicted monks, and they had not buried another man in seven days.

I expressed my genuine happiness over the order’s turn of fortune. Then I raised the subject I had come to discuss and asked whether he had had opportunity to speak to the Archbishop.

I have, yes, he said.

I cannot thank you enough, Don Marco, I said with my head deeply bowed.

Your gratitude is not in order, Doctor Pasqua.

Was he not amenable to your intervention?

The Archbishop possesses an iron will. He is not a man to be easily persuaded. Especially by an old monk.

What did he say about the Jews?

I would not describe his opinion of them as high. However, he did not indicate to me that he wished any particular ill will upon them.

Someone has.

How so?

I recounted the earlier happenings in the Jewish quarter. As I spoke, the good humor drained from Don Marco’s countenance.

This not the way of God, Don Marco said with great disappointment.

It does, however, appear to be the way of the flagellants.

Are you certain the Archbishop was even aware of the murderous intentions of those savages?

No. It is no more than speculation on my part.

I had best speak to the Archbishop again.

I would not ask it of you a second time, I said. Besides, I doubt you would have any more success than on the first.

Perhaps not.

However, there is one more favor I hope to impose upon you.

What is it, good doctor?

The Jews of Genova, I said. I worry that the flagellants have not finished their business with them. I fear for the safety of my friend’s family.

I did not even need to ask. The smile returned to his lips. Of course, my son, he said. Our humble church is a haven to those in need, as all churches are meant to be. Believer or nonbeliever, they are all welcome here at San Giovanni.

Chapter

Forty-Eight

Alana finds Claudio in his hospital room, standing at the bedside and packing a knapsack. He still wears the same blue robe, but he’s no longer connected to any intravenous lines.