First Monk— I will loiter about.
(With his eyes upon the ground the monk saunters over toward the chapel steps and, apparently absorbed in telling his beads, loiters about in order to overhear the conversation. The Abbot enters, followed by Father Benedict leading an ass. Green twigs are stuck about the bridle. The Abbot appears thoughtful.)
Abbot—What do you mean by wolves?
Father Benedict— Wild paws that prey
Upon the fold.
Abbot— And by the fold, you mean—?
Father Benedict—The Church.
Abbot— These wolves live on the mountains here?
Father Benedict—They do.
Abbot— And are not far?
Father Benedict— Some are not far.
Within an eyeshot of the peaks.