Thence
embarking on the Rhine, they came to the place called
Portus,[37] and landing on the east bank of the river, at
the fifth station thence they arrived at Michilinstadt,[38]
accompanied by an immense multitude, praising God. This
place is in that forest of Germany which in modern times is
called the Odenwald, and about six leagues from the Maine.
And here, having found a basilica recently built by me, but
not yet consecrated, they carried the sacred remains into it
and deposited them therein, as if it were to be their final
resting-place. As soon as all this was reported to me I
travelled thither as quickly as I could. (Cap. ii. 14.)
Three days after Eginhard's arrival began the series of wonderful
events which he narrates, and for which we have his personal
guarantee. The first thing that he notices is the dream of a servant
of Ratleig, the notary, who, being set to watch the holy relics in the
church after vespers, went to sleep and, during his slumbers, had a
vision of two pigeons, one white and one gray and white, which came
and sat upon the bier over the relics; while, at the same time, a
voice ordered the man to tell his master that the holy martyrs had
chosen another resting-place and desired to be transported thither
without delay.
Unfortunately, the saints seem to have forgotten to mention where
they wished to go; and, with the most anxious desire to gratify their
smallest wishes, Eginhard was naturally greatly perplexed what to do.
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