I should either begin to cry, or I should turn and rend him for his obstinacy.

You will manage better by yourself, for this God has given you those talents that you have used so badly." The old woman went away, and Gabriel remained alone for more than half an hour, looking out of a window into the deserted cloister.

The yearly commemoration of the death of God spread in the priestly tribe on the roofs, an atmosphere of sadness even more marked than that inside the church.

All the women and children of the Claverias were down below admiring the monument, the "habitacions" seemed quite deserted.

As he sat Gabriel saw his brother pass by the window, and in another moment he appeared at the door.
"What do you want, Gabriel?
What has happened to you?
The aunt frightened me with her summons.