I will willingly go through certain parts of it with you occasionally, but I shall give you something else for your edification, from which you will derive comfort and peace." Konrad covered his face with his hands, and said, almost inaudibly: "The Gospel is what I should have liked best." And then the monk said gravely: "My friend, you are the sick man and I am the physician.

And the physician knows best what will do the sick man good.

You should also prepare yourself for taking the Sacrament." As the poor sinner said no more, the priest spoke a few kind words and left him.

An hour later the gaoler brought him a parcel of books.
"The holy brother sends them so that you can amuse yourself a little." Amusement! It was a cruel joke.

Konrad gave a shrill laugh.