But as a servant of holy Truth, I say to you that harshness is not good, even when used towards one who deceives, because gentleness might perhaps bring him to repent of his deceit; and I say also, Padre, that in your words there is not the spirit of our true and; only Father, to whom be all glory!" At the words "to whom be all glory" Benedetto fell upon his knees, his face glowing with intense fervour.
"Is it for you, miserable sinner, to play the part of teacher ?" the Abbot exclaimed.
"You are right, you are right!" Benedetto replied impulsively, with laboured breath and clasped hands.

"Now I will confess my sin to you.

I desired illicit love; I was happy in the passion of a woman who was not free, as I myself was not free, and I accepted this passion.

I abandoned all religious practices and heeded not the scandal I gave.

This woman did not believe in God, and I dishonoured God in her company, my faith being dead, and showing myself sensual, selfish, weak, and false.