Atalanta [glancing toward the Sacristy closet]. And that's why you so love the Bambino they keep in the Sacristy closet?
Benvenuta. Yes.
Atalanta [more passionately]. And was it easy for you, Benvenuta—always easy in your heart, to give up the world?
Benvenuta. I was destined for this, dear.
Atalanta [rising]. I am not sure. I was not destined. I am—
Benvenuta. Ssh! Dear Atalanta. Be quiet. Be calm. Yes, I was worldly, and I gave it up willingly—
Atalanta. Yes, it was easy for you, and so you think it should be for me. You never even saw a little baby with her mother. You were destined, and you were the youngest—
Benvenuta. It was for the best. I was unworthy, but I gave up the world willingly—
Atalanta [bitterly]. Willingly—you were lame, and—
[She stops, biting her lips. There is a pause.]