Madman, Chapter 26

Within a few short years, the abandoned fort deep in the Egyptian desert became a thriving village of men who were seeking God. The resident anchorites were often joined by visitors seeking blessings from Anthony and advice from men who had turned their backs against the world. It was the time of Passover and the visitors outnumbered the residents. Tents were pitched all around the grounds beyond the fort and its garden. The laughter of several women disturbed Anthony’s morning meditation. He stormed out of his solitary cell. The courtyard was bustling with all sorts of people and animals.