Abbess. There, there, my child. I will overlook it.
[Benvenuta turns away, weeping furtively.]
Come here, little Sister. Why should you weep? I have said I will overlook it.
Benvenuta. I weep because I am unworthy to be penanced. I am nothing.
Abbess. You are nothing? Is not this the very essence of humility? Little Sister, when I forgave you your fault, did you doubt my wisdom?
Benvenuta. Yes, holy Mother. Oh, I have sinned in vain glory. I doubted. But I did not mean to doubt.
Abbess [smiling]. Come hither, little Sister. If I must set you a penance, what would you have it be?
Benvenuta. I would have it ... no....
[She hesitates.]
Abbess. Speak, Sister.