It is thus that we are often deceived in our adorations. The superior man mocks those who compliment him, and compliments those whom he mocks in the depths of his heart.
When the Abbot, bowing low before the altar, chanted: “‘Sancte Johannes, ora pro nobis’!” he heard distinctly: “‘O coglione’!”
“What is happening up there?” cried the superior, seeing the reliquary move.
“The saint is playing devil!” replied the Abbot.
At this the living head tore itself violently away from the dead body and fell upon the yellow pate of the priest.
“Remember, Doña Elvira!” cried the head, fastening its teeth in the head of the Abbot.
The latter gave a terrible shriek, which threw the crowd into a panic. The priests rushed to the assistance of their chief.
“Imbecile! Now say that there is a God!” cried the voice, just as the Abbot expired.