When Dante expresses surprise because a man only five years dead should already be so high up the mount of Purgatory, Forese explains that his wife's constant prayers have successively freed him from detention in the other circles.

In return Dante states why he is here and names his companions.
_Canto XXIV._ Escorting the three travellers on their way, Forese inquires what has become of his sister, Piccarda, ere he points out sundry spirits, with whom Dante converses, and who predict the coming downfall of his political foes.

But these spirits suddenly leave Dante to dart toward trees, which tantalizingly withold their fruit from their eager hands, while hidden voices loudly extol temperance.
_Canto XXV._ In single file the three poets continue their tramp, commenting on what they have seen, and Statius expounds his theories of life.

Then they ascend to the seventh ledge, where glowing fires purge mortals of all sensuality.

Even as they toil toward this level, an angel voice extols chastity, and Dante once more feels the light touch which he now associates with the removal of one of the scars made by the angel at the entrance of Purgatory.