37. The rule of Columbanus, so prevalent in the West
inflicts one hundred lashes for very slight offences (Cod.
Reg. part ii. p. 174 [tom. i. p. 178, ed. 1759]). Before the
time of Charlemagne the abbots indulged themselves in
mutilating their monks, or putting out their eyes - a
punishment much less cruel than the tremendous 'vade' in
'pace' (the subterraneous dungeon, or sepulchre), which was
afterwards invented. See an admirable discourse of the
learned Mabillon ((Euvres Posthumes, tom. ii. p. 321-336),
who, on this occasion, seems to be inspired by the genius of
humanity. For such an effort, I can forgive his defence of
the holy tear of Vendome (p. 361-399).