Balm in Gilead.

Chapter XIV.—Balm in Gilead.

Then said Peter, “What then?  Do you suppose, O woman, that those who destroy themselves are freed from punishment?  Are not the souls of those who thus die punished with a worse punishment in Hades for their suicide?”  But she said, “Would that I were persuaded that souls are really found alive in Hades; then I should love death, making light of the punishment, that I might see, were it but for an hour, my longed for sons!”  Then said Peter, “What is it that grieves you?  I should like to know, O woman.  For if you inform me, in return for this favour, I shall satisfy you that souls live in Hades; and instead of precipice or pool, I shall give you a drug, that you may live and die without torment.”