(Hilarion has disappeared; and Anthony, carried along by the crowd, arrives in the presence of—)
The Carpocratians
(reclining with women upon scarlet cushions.)
"Before entering into the Only thou shalt pass through a series of conditions and of actions. To free thyself from the powers of darkness, thou must at once accomplish their works. The husband shall say to the wife: 'Have charity for thy brother'—and she will kiss thee."
The Nicolaitans
(gathered about a mass of smoking meats:)
"This is a portion of the meat offered to idols;—partake of it! Apostasy is permissible when the heart is pure. Gorge thy flesh with all that it demands. Seek to exterminate it by dint of debauchery! Prounikos, the Mother of Heaven, wallowed in ignominies."
The Marcosians
(wearing rings of gold, and glistening with precious balm and unguents:)
"Enter among us that thou mayst unite thyself to the Spirit! Enter among us that thou mayst quaff the draught of immortality!"