human
The details of the history are not altogether correct. I know, Ferleitner, that you asked me for a copy of the New Testament. If I had known that you had gone so far, I would willingly have given you one. But perhaps it is better so. Though I must tell you, Conrad Ferleitner, that nothing has given me so much pleasure for a long while as these meditations and--I may also say--fancies of yours. As for the faults, let those who take a pleasure in finding them, look for them. The living faith is the one important thing, the living faith and the living Jesus, and that is here! My son, he added, laying his hand on the prisoner's head,
gpt
I feel your piety of soul is so profound, that I will administer the sacrament to you. Yes, Conrad, you are saved. Only, pray fervently.
human
I even think, continued the father, after a pause,
gpt
My God, why should I? replied Conrad.
human
If this work of mine could be the help to other poor wretches that it has been to me! But I do not know--it was not meant for that. I wrote it only for myself.
gpt
Naturally, one or two things must be altered, said the father.
human
We would go through it again together.
gpt
But, holy father, asked the prisoner wistfully,
human
Above all, we must try and find a suitable title. Have you not thought that your child must have a name?
gpt
I wrote the letters I.N.R.I. at the top.
human
It is rather out of the common. People won't know what to make of it. We must at least have a sub-title.
gpt
The title's a matter of absolute indifference to me, said Conrad:
human
I will think it over. May I take the manuscript away again? I must try and become literary in my old age. If a carpenter lad can write a whole book, surely a Franciscan monk can find a title! Have you anything on your mind, my son? No? Then God be with you. I will come again soon. At the door he turned:
gpt
Tell me, my son, does the jailer give you food enough?
human
Yes, more than I need.