THE ROAD TO AVERNUS 



Since they came by their condition hardly of 



their free accord. 

 'Tis but madness, sad and solemn, that these 



fakir- Christians feel — 

 Saint Stylites on his column gratified a morbid 



zeal. 



Laurence : 



By your showing, good is really on a par (of 

 worth) with ill. 



Melchior : 



Nay, I said not so ; I merely tell you both 



some ends fulfil — 

 Priestly vows were my vocation, fast and vigil 



wait for me. 

 You must work and face temptation. Never 



should the strong man flee. 

 Though God wills the inclination with the 



soul at war to be. [Pauses.) 

 In the strife 'twixt flesh and spirit, while you 



can the spirit aid. 

 Should you fall, not less your merit, be not 



for a fall afraid. 

 Whatsoe'er most right, most fit is you shall 



do. When all is done 



221 



