6 and behind it came so long a train of folk, that I should never have believed 57 death had undone so many. After I had recognized some among them, I saw and knew the shade of him 60 who made, through cowardice, the great refusal. At once I understood and was certain, that this was the sect of the caitiffs 63 displeasing to God and to his enemies. These wretches, who never were alive, were naked, and much stung 66 by gad-flies and by wasps that were there; these streaked their faces with blood, which, mingled with tears, was gathered 69 at their feet by loathsome worms, And when I gave myself to looking onward, I saw people on the bank of a great river; 72 wherefore I said: “Master, now grant to me that I may know who these are, and what rule makes them appear so ready to pass over, 75 as I discern through the faint light.” And he to me: “The things will be clear to thee, when we shall stay our steps 78 on the sad shore of Acheron.” Then with eyes ashamed and downcast, fearing lest my speech might be troublesome to him, 81 far as to the river I refrained from speaking.
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