At the same hour on the next evening, Vivaldi is prepared for another examination while the guards throw a mantle over him as well as a black veil. This time, the examiners pose questions regarding Schedoni, as anticipated by Vivaldi’s visitor the previous night. When he is asked to relay what he has heard of Schedoni, Vivaldi repeats the facts mentioned to him by the visitor, explaining that he cannot provide proof for any of them. When the source of his reports is requested, he replies that the informer stands beside him, but no one is able to see the mysterious monk. Indeed, despite numerous efforts to locate the source of the voice, no one can find it. Vivaldi testifies that the voice ordered a summons to Ansaldo and Schedoni the previous night while repeatedly explaining that he himself is unaware of the nature of the charges and that he is merely following instructions.

The sentinels are then examined as to Vivaldi’s visitor and are to be confined until the truth is discovered. When he returns to his cell, he notices that the guard has been changed. Reflecting on the recent examination, Vivaldi also begins to wonder if his visitor is an inquisitor.