the conscience :: essays research papers

She could non take it anymore. She was convinced t eyelid she could no long endure the presence of that hateful vagabond. She was determined to end it, end everything, no matter how bad it might be, rather than bear his tyranny.It had nearly been 15 days with that struggle. What she didnt understand was the tolerance that Antonio had with that vagabond. No, truthfully, it was strange.The vagabond begged for hospitality for one darkness the night of Ash Wednesday exactly, when the wind dragged along a blackish dust, whirling, and whipped the trash windows with a dry crackle. Afterwards, the wind ceased, and there befell a strange calm air to the earth, and she pondered, while closing and adjusting the window blinds.--I dont like this calm--She hadnt even locked the back doorstep when that man arrived. She heard his call ringing from behind the door in the kitchen--Kind lady...--Mariana felt sudden fear. The man, old and raggedy, was there a hat in one hand, with a begging mann er.--Shall God comfort you...--he started to say. But the vagabonds look looked upon her in a strange way. A way that robbed her of words.Many work force like him begged for the grace of heaven on winter nights. But something close to that man frightened her without motive. The vagabond began to recite his ballad For one night, if they would likeable let him sleep in a stable a effect of bread and a stable he doesnt ask for more. The storm proclaimed its coming...Outside, Mariana heard the drumming of the rain against the door. A deaf rain, thick, a specimen of the approaching storm.Im alone--she said dryly--. I mean...when my husband is away, I do not want unknown people in my house. Go, and may God protect you.But the vagabond remained still, looking at her. Slowly, he put his hat on and said --Im a poor man, kind lady. I never did any wrong to anyone. I ask very little a piece of bread...In that moment, two maids, Marcelina and Salome, came running in. They came from the v egetable garden, with their aprons over their heads, let loose and laughing. Mariana felt a strange relief after seeing them.Well--she said--. Fine... provided only for this night. For tomorrow when I awake, I do not escort you here....The old man knelt, smiling, and said a strange poem of thanks.Mariana ascended the stairs and went to go to bed.