- In the refectory, a reader recites another rendition on the Flame Deluge. This one is written in a style similar to the Book of Job.
- Taddeo asks if that's their version of the nuclear holocaust, and Dom Paulo mentions it's one of several they have.
- Taddeo asks when he can study the Memorabilia, and he's told that he can start right away.
- He's excited, obviously.
- They make their way to the library. As they enter, Brother Kornhoer turns on the arc lamp.
- A little help from a couple of monks on treadmills—no, really—gets the electricity flowing nicely.
- The light scares a curse out of Taddeo and causes a clerk to scream, "Fire!" (18.39)
- Once the shock wears off, Taddeo is transfixed by the machine. He demands to know why they hide such a wonder from the world.
- When Brother Kornhoer explains that he built the thing, Taddeo's pride takes a bit of a hit.
- Taddeo is definitely the kind of guy who believes he's the smartest person in the room.