In the neighbouring monastery, behind windows and doors closely
sealed, solemn prayers of the religious were resounding above the
distant noise of Bacchic chants. To drown them the monks joined their
voices in shrill lamentation--
"_Why, Lord, hast Thou abandoned us? Why has Thy anger fallen upon Thy
sheep?_
"_Why hast Thou given us up in dishonour to the hand of the heathen?_
"_Why hast Thou let mankind do outrage unto Thee?_"