“When San Pietro came back, he said: ‘Every one is weeping and sobbing and lamenting.’
“‘Then the world is not finished,’ said Our Lord, and He went on working.
“Three days later Our Lord sent San Pietro again to the earth.
“‘Everyone is laughing and rejoicing and playing,’ said San Pietro, when he came back.
“‘Then the world is not finished,’ said Our Lord, and He went on working.
“San Pietro was dispatched for the third time.
“‘Some are weeping and some are laughing,’ he said, when he came back.
“‘Then the world is finished,’ said Our Lord.
“And so shall it be and continue,” said the old pope. “No one can save mankind from their sorrows, but much is forgiven to him who brings new courage to bear them.”