There was silence for a space.
Then the Abbot spoke—
"Hast thou duly considered the solemn step? Canst thou leave the world behind thee—its friendships and its enmities? and hast thou considered what hard and stern things we endure?"
"I have, Father Abbot."
"And the yet harder and sterner discipline which awaits the transgressor?"
"None of these things move me: I am prepared to bear yet harsher and sterner things, if so be I may save my soul."
"The Lord Jesus Christ so perform in you what for His love's sake you promise, that you may have His grace and life eternal."
"Amen," said all present.
The rule of the order was then read aloud.