If the ladies are willing, you had better come with us; for three Brothers are already below with people, and you would have a long time to wait.
This is the great season for visitors." The ladies politely nodded, and the Trappist handed a candle to the priest.

In all probability neither mother nor daughter was devout, for both glanced askance at their new companion's cassock, and suddenly became serious.

Then they all went down and found themselves in a narrow subterranean corridor.

"Take care, mesdames," repeated the Trappist, lighting the ground with his candle.

"Walk slowly, for there are projections and slopes." Then, in a shrill voice full of extraordinary conviction, he began his explanations.