Father Didymus is taking care of Friar Titus, a young man with developmental issues. One day, one of the priests asks if Father Didymus received a letter sent to him a couple of days ago. When the Father says no, he finds out that Titus had stolen the letter. Titus returns the letter, and Father Didymus learns that his brother Father Seraphim is dying. Seraphim asks Didymus to come to St. Louis and visit him. However, Father Didymus, fearing for Titus's safety, decides to stay and take care of the Friar. Seraphim dies, and later on, Didymus develops a disease that causes him to become wheelchair-bound. The Father fears this is punishment for not seeing his brother and is tormented by his decision. Titus tries to comfort him by getting him a caged bird, and the gesture moves Didymus. Ultimately, he accepts what has happened to him and feels at peace with his decision.