6. The Master of the Curators

Entering the dark room, Severian is greeted by the archivist, Master Ultan.  Severian hands Master Ultan the letter from Master Gurloes.  Although Master Ultan opens the letter, he asks that Severian read its contents.  Severian cannot read the letter in the darkness and Master Ultan summons his apprentice, Cyby, who brings a candelabra.  In the light, Severian recognizes that Master Ultan is blind.