Abbess. No. Send Benvenuta to me. And ask Grimana to send the novice Atalanta also—a little later.
[Rosalba goes out. The Abbess goes over and examines the Sacristy Closet door, tries the lock, finds it fast, and returns to her chair. Benvenuta enters. She is more pale than before, and looks frailer, and her limp is more apparent, but her eyes are wide, and rove about the room, and her expression is of one who has found her happiness. The Abbess speaks to her kindly.]
Abbess. My child, I have called you to me because you have seemed so pale, and I fear you have burdened yourself beyond your strength.
Benvenuta. No, Reverend Mother. I am not burdened.
Abbess. You are not performing any secret penance?
Benvenuta. None, Mother.
Abbess. Answer me truly, Benvenuta. You have not been contemplating some penance, and so been filled with anxiety.
Benvenuta. I look for no penance in this life, Reverend Mother, beyond such as may be imposed upon me.
Abbess. Nothing beyond your strength will be imposed. If you have need of more sleep, I would be willing to relax for you, for a time.
Benvenuta. I do not need it, Reverend Mother.