Understand that the author is trying to bring you into the monastic pace of life, and the seemingly smaller concerns of the monks at the center of his story.
The German aristocracy are no longer interested in leading that kind of quasi-monastic life, and especially as that devotional element, that crusading element, has been compromised to some extent.
While the majority of residents within the temple grounds are monks committed to the monastic lifestyle, individuals from various age groups visit the temple seeking spiritual guidance and solace.
Better instructed in the disgust and ennui of a monastic life, Agnes had penetrated the designs of the Domina: She trembled for the innocent Girl, and endeavoured to make her sensible of her error.
Don Gaston readily chimed in with his Lady's wishes: But knowing the sentiments of the Duke, his Brother, respecting a Monastic life, it was determined that your Sister's destination should be carefully concealed from him.