It seems that he refused to come, saying, "That is no affair of mine.

I have nothing to do with that unpleasant task, and with that mountebank: I, too, am ill; and besides, it is not my place." This reply was reported to the Bishop, who said, "Monsieur le Cure is right: it is not his place; it is mine." He went instantly to the prison, descended to the cell of the "mountebank," called him by name, took him by the hand, and spoke to him.

He passed the entire day with him, forgetful of food and sleep, praying to God for the soul of the condemned man, and praying the condemned man for his own.

He told him the best truths, which are also the most simple.

He was father, brother, friend; he was bishop only to bless.