Chapter 26 Summary

The building of the wall is proceeding, but another Saracen fleet is preparing to attack Rome. Pope Leo requests a fleet of armed ships be sent from Naples and is relieved when they comply. Sudden rough weather forces the flimsy Saracen ships to break apart, and Joan wonders if Leo might really have been touched by a divine presence.

Hundreds of the captured Saracens who survive the Romans' wrath are put to work on the wall. Leo is restoring all of the saintly places of Rome, including St. Peter's. Since he is very busy, John Anglicus (Joan) has undertaken some of Leo's charitable duties and is being called "Little Pope."

Having lost his second son, Arsenuis is more determined than ever that Anastasius must be Pope, but Leo is strong and vital, not likely to die any time soon. But, Leo now becomes...