A Bell then sounded thrice.
It was the signal for opening the Court, and the Inquisitors entered upon their office.
In these trials neither the accusation is mentioned, or the name of the Accuser.

The Prisoners are only asked, whether they will confess: If they reply that having no crime they can make no confession, they are put to the torture without delay.

This is repeated at intervals, either till the suspected avow themselves culpable, or the perseverance of the examinants is worn out and exhausted: But without a direct acknowledgment of their guilt, the Inquisition never pronounces the final doom of its Prisoners.
In general much time is suffered to elapse without their being questioned: But Ambrosio's trial had been hastened, on account of a solemn Auto da Fe which would take place in a few days, and in which the Inquisitors meant this distinguished Culprit to perform a part, and give a striking testimony of their vigilance.
The Abbot was not merely accused of rape and murder: The crime of Sorcery was laid to his charge, as well as to Matilda's.

She had been seized as an Accomplice in Antonia's assassination.

On searching her Cell, various suspicious books and instruments were found which justified the accusation brought against her.