Moonlight by Guy de Maupassant. Short summary

5 seconds

Abbot Marignan hated women because he believed they only tempted men. The only exception was his niece. One day the abbot found out that she had a suitor and went to take revenge on him.

1 minute

Abbot Marignan considered himself a servant of God who must know or at least anticipate the will of the Almighty. Every question the abbot could answer. Among other things, the man greatly hated all women. Even nuns were no exception.

According to Marignan’s beliefs, women were created only to test and tempt men. The only exception is the abbot’s niece.

Rumors reach Marignan that the girl has a beau. He learns of where he can catch the two of them together. He takes his truncheon and sets out to punish his niece’s admirer.

When the abbot opens the door, a savingly bright moonlight appears. It enchants the avenger, who stops at the threshold. The abbot then admires the young couple, after which his outlook changes. The ashamed Marignan runs away before he is spotted.