One word there was in all, and metre one, So that all harmony appeared among them. “Master,” I said, “are spirits those I hear?” And he to me: “Thou apprehendest truly, And they the knot of anger go unloosing.” “Now who art thou, that cleavest through our smoke, And art discoursing of us even as though Thou didst by calends still divide the time?” 831 After this manner by a voice was spoken; Whereon my Master said: “Do thou reply, And ask if on this side the way go upward.” And I: “O creature that dost cleanse thyself To return beautiful to Him who made thee, Thou shalt hear marvels if thou follow me.” “Thee will I follow far as is allowed me,” He answered; “and if smoke prevent our seeing, Hearing shall keep us joined instead thereof.” Thereon began I: “With that swathing band Which death unwindeth am I going upward, And hither came I through the infernal anguish. And if God in his grace has me infolded, So that he wills that I behold his court By method wholly out of modern usage,