What I would make known to you,
Illustrious, is that for more than two whole days my dear lord has
not broken bread. Since our return to Rome he has fasted all but
continuously, at the same time inflicting upon himself many other
penances of the severest kind. For this, I well know, he will have
his reward in the eternal life; but when I note his aspect, I am
overcome with fear lest we should lose him too soon. This morning,
when I was helping him to dress, he sank down, and lay for a time as
one dead. My lord would rebuke me severely if he knew that I had
ventured to speak of these things; but with you, Illustrious, I feel
that I am in no danger. You will understand me, and pardon me.'
Basil had raised himself to a sitting position. Supporting himself
on one hand, he stared straight before him, and only spoke when a
movement on the part of the servant betrayed impatience.
'This has gone on, you say, since your return to Rome? Was it your
lord's habit to do such penance on his travels?'
'Never in this extreme, though I have always marvelled at his
piety.
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