CHAPTER LII: Of the Oratory of the Monastery.

Of the Brethren who do not go far off.

Let not the Brother who goes forth upon any errand, and intends to return that same day to the Monastery, presume to eat while abroad, even though invited to do so, unless perchance he has the Abbot's orders. If he do otherwise, let him be excommunicated. __________________________________________________________________

Of the Oratory of the Monastery.

Let the Oratory be what its name signifieth, and let nothing else be done or treated of there. When the Work of God is ended, let all go forth with exceeding great silence, and let respect be paid to the presence of God, in order that the Brother who wishes to pray privately, may not be hindered from so doing by the misconduct of another. If any other Brother should also wish to pray secretly, let him enter without ostentation and pray, not with a loud voice, but with tears and earnestness of heart. Therefore, let not any one remain in the Oratory after the Work of God is ended, except for the purpose of prayer, lest he be a hindrance to others. __________________________________________________________________