Father Benedict—But this will matter something. Listen now.
(Leaning over and speaking in the Abbot's ear.)
I get his forty neat and all the land
Between the river and the raddle-hedge
South of the village, with the acreage
Of tilth and vines that fronts the rising sun
Near the White Torrent. Does that give you joy?
(He strikes the ass with the switch and starts left.)
Basil—(Aloud.) Thank God!
Abbot—(Lifting his hand.) This is the work of Benedict.
Father Benedict—(Stopping.) You mean that as reproach?
Abbot—I simply mean
We had no hand in this; the glory is yours.
Father Benedict—Come with me.