The Shepherd of Hermas

After she had spoken these words the Heavens[*](The vision of the ancient lady) were shut, and I was all shuddering and in grief. And I began to say in myself: If this sin is recorded against me, how shall I be saved? Or how shall I propitiate God for my completed sins? Or with what words shall I beseech the Lord to be forgiving unto me?

While I was considering and doubting these things in my heart I saw before me a white chair of great size made of snow-white wool; and there came a woman, old and clothed in shining garments with a book in her hand, and she sat down alone and greeted me: Hail, Hermas! And I, in my grief and weeping, said: Hail, Lady!

And she said to me: Why are you gloomy, Hermas? You who are patient and good-tempered, who are always laughing, why are you so downcast in appearance and not merry? And I said to her: Because of a most excellent lady, who says that I sinned against her.

And she said: By no means let this thing happen to the servant of God; but for all that the thought did enter your