[Rosalba also comes forward.]
I will consider this, and will give out the penances in chapter.
Grimana. Yes, Mother.
[Rosalba stands with her head bowed and her fingers run along the buttons of her cape.]
Abbess. There has been too much playing of lutes, too much worldly anticipation and imagining among us. So I have decided that all the holy relics shall be re-furbished, and all the vestments mended and cleaned, against Shrove Tuesday. And all other work, whether of embroidery or of whatever nature, shall wait till this be done. Sister Sacristan, let the tasks be set at once.
[The sisters bow their heads and go out, the Sister Sacristan following Rosalba and Grimana off. Benvenuta stands still in an attitude of deep humility.]
Well, little Sister?
Benvenuta. Holy Mother, I am waiting for my penance.
Abbess. Your penance, Benvenuta?
Benvenuta. The fault was mine. I brought Atalanta with her lute. I was to blame for it all. I am heedless, and unworthy, and stained with worldliness, Mother.