CHAPTER 1.LII.
How Gargantua caused to be built for the Monk the Abbey of Theleme.
There was left only the monk to provide for, whom Gargantua would have made Abbot of Seville, but he refused it.

He would have given him the Abbey of Bourgueil, or of Sanct Florent, which was better, or both, if it pleased him; but the monk gave him a very peremptory answer, that he would never take upon him the charge nor government of monks.

For how shall I be able, said he, to rule over others, that have not full power and command of myself?
If you think I have done you, or may hereafter do any acceptable service, give me leave to found an abbey after my own mind and fancy.

The motion pleased Gargantua very well, who thereupon offered him all the country of Theleme by the river of Loire till within two leagues of the great forest of Port-Huaulx.

The monk then requested Gargantua to institute his religious order contrary to all others.