some other vessel bound to the Levant. Not finding any, and perceiving
that his intention had been foiled, he applied to some seamen who were
about to sail to Ancona, to take him on board their vessel for the
love of God. They refused obstinately to do so, because he had no money
wherewith to pay his passage; notwithstanding this, the holy man
contrived to slip secretly on board with his companion.

An unknown person came on board the vessel and brought provisions with
him, saying to one of the passengers: "Worthy man, I confide these
provisions to you, for the use of two poor religious who are secreted
in the vessel; take care of them, and give food to them when required."
Who could this charitable purveyor be? There is reason to think, with
St. Bonaventure, that he was sent by God to the assistance of these
two poor religious, who were only poor for love of Him. Stormy weather
rendered the passage disastrous; they could neither carry sail, nor
return to land. All the sailors' provisions were expended: there was
nothing left but the provisions put on board for the two religious.
Divine Providence was pleased to multiply these, inasmuch that they
sufficed for all who were in the vessel for several days, during which
they were still at sea, before they reached Ancona. The sailors,
astonished at this miracle, were convinced that the poor man whom they
had refused to receive on board, had, by his merits, saved their lives,
and they returned thanks to God for His mercy.

After having landed, Francis went to several places, spreading the
word of God as a precious seed, which produced an ample harvest. Many
came to see him from afar, so greatly had his reputation been
disseminated. A celebrated poet came amongst others, having heard his
entire contempt for the things of this world spoken of. He was of the
class of persons who were called in Provence _Troubadours_, who