Chapter 33 Summary

Severo and Fra Murta debate the merits of a false conscience. Severo says that men follow their consciences, and Palinor has not sinned by following his. Fra Murta replies that a man is only bound to follow his conscience, when it commands him to do what the Church teaches is right. Fra Murta says that they should seek to change a man in the grip of a false conscience, and an hour in the torture chamber should do the job.

Severo argues that Amara has settled the question of whether Palinor should have known about God. Fra Murta says they should ask Amara again, because she did not understand the question. Severo agrees, but Fra Murta must leave Palinor alone in the meantime.

The sisters of Sant Clara are gathered to decide two great matters. The ailing abbess is nearby, asleep in a...