At the top of these steps, on a diamond threshold, sits the Angel of Absolution with his flashing sword.

Challenged by this warder, Virgil explains that they have been guided hither by Santa Lucia, at whose name the angel bids them draw near.

Up a polished step of white marble (which typifies sincerity), a dark step of cracked stone (symbol of contrition), and one of red porphyry (emblem of self-sacrifice), Dante arrives at the angel's feet and humbly begs him to unbar the door.

In reply the angel inscribes upon the poet's brow, by means of his sword, seven _P's_, to represent the seven deadly sins (in Italian _peccata_), of which mortals must be purged ere they can enter Paradise.
After bidding Dante have these signs properly effaced, the angel draws from beneath his ash-hued mantle the golden key of authority and the silver key of discernment, stating that when St.Peter entrusted them to his keeping he bade him err "rather in opening than in keeping fast." Then, the gate open, the angel bids them enter, adding the solemn warning "he forth again departs who looks behind." _Canto X._ Mindful of this caution, Dante does not turn, although the gates close with a clash behind him, but follows his guide along a steep pathway.

It is only after painful exertions they reach the first terrace of Purgatory, or place where the sin of pride is punished.
They now pass along a white marble cornice,--some eighteen feet wide,--whose walls are decorated with sculptures which would not have shamed the best masters of Greek art.