Page:On papal conclaves (IA a549801700cartuoft).djvu/90

 tion was so imminent that a sacrifice had to be made without loss of time. Under these circumstances it was resolved to carry the election by surprise before Ferrara and the French party had the opportunity to counteract the move next morning. Accordingly Cardinals Madruzzi and Caraffa stole privately to Cervini's cell to prepare him for what was coming, while the Cardinals were assembled within the Pauline Chapel in debate, which became eager and hot. Suddenly up jumped Cardinal Crispo, a confederate, and exclaimed, 'Up and let us be going; I for one will not rebel against the Holy Ghost,' and with these words he led the way, followed by most Cardinals, to the cell of Cervini, who was carried forcibly into the chapel amidst the vociferous acclamations not merely of his supporters, but even of most of his opponents, when they saw the day lost for them. Still, success had been snatched so far only by a hold stroke; and to confirm the adverse party in disorganization, the Conclavists were employed to make the fact of Cervini's election known at once in the city, with the view of eliciting popular demonstrations that might effectually suppress any