Chapter Forty-Two
CHAPTER FORTY-TWO
That No One Speak after Compline
AT ALL times monks ought to study silence. This is especially true during the hours of the night. Therefore, on every day, whether it is a day of fasting or a day or not, this shall hold as the rule. If it has been a non-fast day then, as soon as they have risen from their evening meal, let everyone sit together in one place, and let one monk read from the Conferences of John Cassian or from The Lives of the Fathers, or something else that will edify those listening. The Heptateuch or the Books of the Kings, however, should not be read because it would not be advantageous for tired and weak minds to hear that part of the Scripture at this hour; they should, however, be read at other times.
On the other hand, if it was a fast-day, then, a short interval after Vespers has been said, let them gather for the reading of the Conferences, as we have said. Four or five pages should be read, or as much as the hour will permit, in that way all will assemble in that place during the drawn out time of the reading. This should also allow anyone who had been assigned to some specific task to join the community. When, therefore, everyone has assembled in one place, then let them say Compline, and after they leave from Compline, no one should be granted permission to say anything further to anyone.
If, however, anyone is found trying to bend this rule, let him undergo serious punishment. The exceptions to the rule are responses to the needs of guests, or if the Abbot should perhaps give a command to someone. But let even this be done with the utmost gravity and moderation.