"Deuce take me, if I know what they all want with a damned monk," muttered the turnkey; "but what I do know is that they can't leave a poor man in peace for five minutes. Come in, come in, father," he continued, standing aside to allow the priest to pass, "and be quick about it."
With that he closed the door, still grumbling, and left the new comer alone with the prisoner.
"Was it you who sent for me, my son?" the priest asked.
"Yes, father," replied the student.
"Do you wish to confess?"
"No, not just that: I wish to talk with you concerning a simple case of conscience."
"Say on, my son," said the priest, seating himself upon the stool, "and if any feeble light that I can give you will help you—"
"It was to ask your advice that I ventured to send for you."
"I am listening."
"Father," said Aubry, "I am a great sinner."