Still he believes himself the greatest sinner on earth!" "Hm!" the Abott ejaculated thoughtfully, "Hm! I see! But why does he not join the Order?
Then, another thing: I know he has passed several nights outside the inclosure." Don Clemente felt his face once more aflame.

"In prayer," he said.
"That may be, but perhaps some may not believe it.

You know what Dante says: Ad ogni ver che ha faccia di menzogna Dee l'uom chiuder la bocca quant'ei puote, Pero che senza colpa fa vergogna." [Footnote:Aye to that truth which has the face of falsehood A man should close his lips as far as may be, Because without his fault it causes shame.
-- Longfellow's _Translation of the "Inferno."_] "Oh!" Don Clemente exclaimed, blushing, in his modest dignity, for those who were capable of harbouring vile suspicions.
"Forgive me, my son!" said the Abbot.

"He is not accused, the appearances alone are criticised.

Do not vex yourself.