The gathering is called a Conclave. One ballot may be taken on the first day and four on each following day. A new pope must be elected by a two thirds majority of those present. If there is no majority, the ballots are burned in a small stove. Its smokestack can be seen from St. Peter s square.
Crowds usually gather to watch.
If no pope is elected on a ballot, straw is added to the flames to make black smoke. If someone is elected, chemicals are added to the fire to make white smoke. The crowds anxiously watch for the smoke and its color. Three Cardinals are chosen by lot to be Scrutineers. It is their duty to collect the ballots, open them and read them aloud.