Burn the images of Our Lord and Our Lady, and ask for peace?” said the poor Bishop, who helplessly longed to be left alone.
“All that, Father,” said Ramón.
“Son, what can I answer? You are a good man smitten with the madness of pride. Don Cipriano is one more Mexican general. I am the poor old Bishop of this diocese, faithful servant of the Holy Church, humble child of the Holy Father in Rome. What can I do? What can I answer? Take me out to the cemetery and shoot me at once, General!”
“I don’t want to,” said Cipriano.
“It will end like that,” said the Bishop.
“But why?” cried Don Ramón. “Is there no sense in what I say? Cannot you understand?”
“My son, my understanding goes no further than my faith, my duty, will allow. I am not a clever man.