_Canto XXIV._ Escorting the three travellers on their way, Forese
inquires what has become of his sister, Piccarda, ere he points out
sundry spirits, with whom Dante converses, and who predict the coming
downfall of his political foes. But these spirits suddenly leave Dante
to dart toward trees, which tantalizingly withold their fruit from
their eager hands, while hidden voices loudly extol temperance.

_Canto XXV._ In single file the three poets continue their tramp,
commenting on what they have seen, and Statius expounds his theories
of life. Then they ascend to the seventh ledge, where glowing fires
purge mortals of all sensuality. Even as they toil toward this level,
an angel voice extols chastity, and Dante once more feels the light
touch which he now associates with the removal of one of the scars
made by the angel at the entrance of Purgatory. Arrived above, the
poets have to tread a narrow path between the roaring fires and the
abyss. So narrow is the way, that Virgil bids Dante beware or he will
be lost!

"Behoved us, one by one, along the side,
That border'd on the void, to pass; and I
Fear'd on one hand the fire, on the other fear'd
Headlong to fall: when thus the instructor warn'd:
'Strict rein must in this place direct the eyes.
A little swerving and the way is lost.'"

As all three warily proceed, Dante hears voices in the fiery furnace
alternately imploring the mercy of God and quoting examples of
chastity, such as Mary and Diana, and couples who proved chaste though
married.