(He turns away. While the Priest and the Abbot walk about, each occupied with his own thought, Pierre and his two companions approach and stand a few yards away, observing them.)
Abbot—(With a glance toward the Priest.) Out—?
Father Benedict— (Without turning.)
Of envy, or else fear that I would shrink.
You need not, though.
Abbot—(Stopping.) I fear that you would shrink?
Father Benedict—To you, too, my great honor has been revealed.
(A pause.)
Abbot—I do not understand you, Benedict.
Father Benedict— (Turning and facing the Abbot.)
Why do you hide it from me?
Abbot— What are you
Hiding from me?
Father Benedict— You feared that I would shrink
To tear those jaws upon the mountain side.
Your dropping of your eyes shows I am right.