The Grand Master, visibly shaken by the tragic event, had taken refuge in the Order's Palace. It is here that he prayed to the Lord for guidance in this matter.
"Great God who I love and worship....Please guide me and show me the path I must take."On the morning of the 20th August 1781, the Grand Master emerged from his private chapel and called for his clerk.
"Issue the following proclomation...The Grand Master forgives his attackers and prays for their salvation. A mass for Father Benedict will be given this evening to honour his sacrifice."
He then makes a sign for the clerc to go. The clerc leaves and the Grand Master then begins to write a letter:
- Citation :
- To the Chef of Police,
Following this attack, I hereby order you to increase the security around the Palace. I have no intention at the moment to show myself in public while assassins try to make attempts on my life.
I request that you particularly watch the Piedmontese militia men.
Signed,
The Grand Master
He seals the letter with the Seal of the Order, hands it to a second clerc with instructions to deliver it to the Chef of Police.