The learned doctor understood the case, both from his examination of the water, and the information given by the nun, and then he gave his prescription.
Now I know that it is the custom in many cases to give a prescription in writing, nevertheless this time he gave it by word of mouth, and said to the nun;
“Fair sister, for the abbess to recover her health there is but one remedy, and that is that she must have company with a man; otherwise in a short time she will grew so bad that death will be the only remedy.”
Our nun was much astonished to hear such sad news, and said,
“Alas! Master John! is there no other method by which our abbess can recover her health?”
“Certainly not,” he replied; “there is no other, and moreover, you must make haste to do as I have bid you, for if the disease is not stopped and takes its course, there is no man living who could cure it.”
The good nun, though much disconcerted, made haste to announce the news to the Abbess, and by the aid of her stout cob, and the great desire she had to be at home, made such speed that the abbess was astonished to see her returned.
“What says the doctor, my dear?” cried the abbess. “Is there any fear of death?”
“You will be soon in good health if God so wills, madam,” said the messenger. “Be of good cheer, and take heart.”
“What! has not the doctor ordered me any medicine?” said the Abbess.