PRIEST.
Would you be the first to break a Great Custom that has been observed since ancient times?
TRAVELLER.
No, that is not what I meant. But if we are to discuss this matter, I must be plain with you.... I am a man of the Capital. Perhaps because of some ill deed done in a former life I have suffered many troubles. At last I could no longer build the pathway of my life, so I took my wife and child and set out to seek my friend who lives in the East. Pray let me go on my way.
PRIEST.
Indeed, indeed you have cause for distress. But from ancient times till now
Parents have been taken
And countless beyond all knowing
Wives and husbands parted.
Call this, if you will, the retribution of a former life. But now come with us quickly to the shores of the Holy Pool.
(Describing his own actions.)
So saying, the Priest and acolytes went forward.