human
O Father, most Holy Father, he cried passionately,
gpt
Tell me, did not the form of the woman seem to disappear miraculously when you made the sign of the cross?
human
Yes, yes, Holy Father; the ground seemed to part and swallow her up, and she disappeared from my sight utterly.
gpt
Ah, I thought as much. Doubtless she descended into the awaiting pit of hell. I shall exorcise the Evil Spirit from you, and you shall have peace. Fear not. All will yet be well.
human
A penance, a penance.
gpt
I have heard, he said,
human
(he could yet make the monastery bear a sweeter name before the coming of the Bishop)
gpt
Besides, he added,
human
I have no longer the strength to go forth into the world. There will I meet with women. I desire and pray not to see the face of woman more.