to_o many_o externall_n observance_n yet_o a_o view_v of_o the_o patience_n quietness_n and_o resignation_n show_v by_o they_o be_v more_o edify_v to_o soul_n under_o their_o care_n than_o all_o the_o most_o exact_a external_a regularity_n and_o severity_n of_o active_a spirit_n 6._o yea_o even_o in_o regard_n of_o temporal_a benefit_n to_o community_n contemplative_a spirit_n be_v more_o advantageous_a than_o active_a because_o they_o not_o put_v any_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o industry_n prudence_n and_o activity_n but_o only_o in_o the_o divine_a providence_n which_o be_v never_o want_v to_o those_o that_o for_o temporal_a regard_n will_v not_o do_v any_o thing_n unseemly_a or_o misbecome_a their_o abstract_a state_n do_v enjoy_v the_o effect_n and_o blessing_n of_o god_n far_o more_o plentiful_o while_o they_o prefer_v his_o love_n and_o service_n before_o any_o humane_a distract_n sollicitude_n for_o outward_a thing_n memorable_a example_n of_o great_a blessing_n attend_v such_o a_o confidence_n in_o god_n we_o find_v abundant_o in_o the_o life_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n and_o of_o the_o ancient_a monk_n and_o more_o late_o in_o the_o life_n of_o suso_n joannes_n the_o cruse_n etc._n etc._n now_o the_o want_n of_o such_o confidence_n in_o active_a spirit_n proceed_v mere_o from_o defect_n in_o divine_a love_n and_o that_o from_o the_o want_n of_o internal_a prayer_n and_o hence_o proceed_v hurtful_a &_o unseemly_a compliance_n with_o the_o world_n a_o regard_n rather_o to_o wealth_n then_o good_a will_n to_o serve_v god_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o enter_v into_o religion_n etc._n etc._n 10._o a_o fearful_a example_n of_o the_o mischief_n follow_a the_o neglect_n of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o a_o superior_a we_o find_v in_o bernardinus_fw-la ochinus_n a_o superior_a in_o a_o most_o strict_a order_n who_o be_v a_o famous_a zealous_a preacher_n and_o as_o may_v be_v judge_v by_o outward_a appearance_n of_o more_o than_o ordinary_a sanctity_n yet_o withal_o to_o comply_v with_o those_o outward_a employment_n a_o great_a neglecter_n of_o internal_a conuentuall_a recollection_n and_o when_o he_o be_v sometime_o charitable_o admonish_v of_o such_o his_o tepidity_n his_o ordinary_a answer_n be_v do_v you_o not_o know_v that_o he_o who_o be_v always_o in_o a_o good_a action_n be_v always_o in_o prayer_n which_o say_v of_o his_o have_v be_v true_a if_o such_o good_a action_n have_v be_v perform_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n and_o by_o grace_n obtain_v thereby_o for_o than_o they_o have_v be_v virtual_o prayer_n whereas_o action_n though_o in_o themselves_o never_o so_o good_a if_o they_o want_n that_o purity_n of_o intention_n which_o be_v only_o to_o be_v have_v by_o pure_a prayer_n be_v in_o god_n esteem_n of_o little_a or_o no_o value_v the_o principal_a motive_n of_o they_o be_v no_o other_o than_o such_o as_o corrupt_v nature_n be_v likely_a to_o suggest_v ochinus_n therefore_o continue_v in_o the_o same_o neglect_n be_v by_o one_o of_o his_o brethren_n prophetical_o warn_v that_o he_o must_v expect_v some_o terrible_a issue_n thereof_o in_o these_o word_n cave_n ne_fw-la te_fw-la ordo_fw-la euâ—mat_fw-la that_o be_v take_v heed_n that_o our_o order_n be_v not_o hereafter_o constreive_v to_o vomit_v thou_o out_o of_o it_o the_o which_o unhappy_o fall_v out_o for_o notwithstanding_o all_o his_o other_o specious_a quality_n and_o endowment_n he_o first_o forsake_v god_n be_v afterward_o forsake_v by_o he_o and_o become_v a_o wretched_a antitrinitarian_n apostate_n and_o it_o be_v very_o probable_a that_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o apostate_n of_o these_o time_n such_o i_o mean_v as_o have_v former_o live_v in_o religious_a order_n do_v own_o their_o apostasy_n and_o perdition_n to_o no_o other_o cause_n so_o much_o as_o to_o such_o neglect_n and_o apostasy_n first_o from_o prayer_n the_o which_o holy_a exercise_n if_o they_o have_v continue_v they_o will_v never_o have_v be_v weary_a of_o their_o habit_n first_o and_o afterward_o of_o their_o faith_n chap._n viii_o §_o 1._o superior_n ought_v careful_o to_o examine_v the_o disposition_n of_o those_o that_o they_o admit_v to_o religion_n §_o 2._o 3._o great_a danger_n to_o community_n from_o loose_a spirit_n §_o 4._o 5._o other_o ill_a quality_n to_o be_v avoid_v §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o of_o a_o good_a nature_n what_o be_v and_o how_o to_o be_v prise_v §_o 10._o 11._o inconvenience_n by_o admit_v active_a spirit_n into_o contemplative_a religion_n §_o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o sufficient_a time_n for_o recollection_n be_v to_o be_v allow_v to_o all_o religious_a §_o 16._o superior_n will_v be_v accountable_a for_o disorder_n in_o their_o flock_n 1._o now_o one_o of_o the_o principal_a point_n of_o a_o superior_n care_v for_o the_o welfare_n of_o his_o community_n consist_v in_o provide_v or_o admit_v into_o it_o only_o such_o spirit_n and_o disposition_n as_o be_v likely_a to_o promote_v the_o good_a of_o it_o by_o live_v according_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o it_o and_o in_o this_o all_o such_o officer_n and_o counselor_n be_v concern_v to_o who_o the_o law_n have_v refer_v the_o examination_n and_o trial_n of_o such_o as_o offer_v themselves_o to_o a_o regular_a life_n and_o be_v afterward_o upon_o their_o approbation_n to_o be_v profess_v and_o a_o great_a consideration_n of_o this_o point_n be_v more_o necessary_a in_o these_o day_n then_o ancient_o it_o be_v for_o it_o be_v not_o now_o as_o in_o our_o holy_a father_n time_n when_o incorrigible_a person_n may_v be_v expel_v the_o congregation_n 2._o it_o be_v not_o i_o suppose_v needful_a to_o advise_v such_o as_o be_v in_o those_o office_n to_o take_v care_n how_o they_o admit_v loose_a spirit_n into_o religion_n among_o they_o who_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o intend_v god_n or_o his_o service_n all_o who_o action_n have_v no_o other_o motive_n but_o either_o fear_n of_o penance_n or_o hope_n of_o gain_v reputation_n preferment_n &c_n &c_n who_o body_n be_v prisoner_n in_o religion_n but_o their_o mind_n and_o desire_n wander_v in_o the_o world_n who_o must_v enjoy_v all_o privilege_n and_o corporal_a help_n equal_o with_o the_o best_a yea_o and_o general_o use_v they_o most_o wasteful_o without_o consideration_n of_o other_o who_o find_v no_o taste_n or_o contentment_n in_o spiritual_a matter_n be_v even_o force_v to_o seek_v satisfaction_n in_o sensual_a pleasure_n and_o for_o the_o pass_n of_o the_o time_n to_o frame_v design_n to_o raise_v and_o maintain_v faction_n and_o this_o especial_o against_o those_o that_o they_o see_v do_v most_o intend_v god_n on_o who_o they_o will_v cast_v from_o of_o themselves_o all_o the_o burden_n of_o a_o regular_a life_n who_o will_v think_v themselves_o excuse_v from_o all_o duty_n for_o the_o least_o corporal_a incommodity_n who_o will_v desire_v and_o endeavour_v to_o make_v other_o like_o themselves_o that_o their_o party_n and_o power_n may_v be_v great_a last_o who_o reap_v so_o little_a good_a to_o their_o own_o soul_n and_o be_v likely_a to_o do_v so_o much_o prejudice_n to_o other_o that_o probable_o it_o have_v be_v much_o better_a for_o they_o to_o have_v continue_v in_o the_o world_n the_o state_n of_o religion_n only_o serve_v to_o increase_v their_o guilt_n and_o misery_n 3._o such_o loose_a spirit_n be_v worse_o in_o a_o community_n where_o the_o knowledge_n of_o true_a spirituality_n be_v common_a then_o in_o other_o place_n because_o there_o they_o be_v wilful_o naught_o and_o do_v resist_v amendment_n if_o by_o the_o severity_n of_o law_n and_o constitution_n they_o may_v come_v to_o be_v keep_v in_o some_o tolerable_a order_n yet_o this_o reach_n only_o to_o the_o exterior_a &_o last_v no_o long_o than_o the_o superior_n eye_n be_v upon_o they_o and_o indeed_o the_o superior_n themselves_n will_v in_o all_o probability_n feel_v the_o great_a smart_n from_o such_o undue_a admission_n be_v likely_a to_o find_v daily_o great_a bitterness_n from_o their_o obstinacy_n such_o loose_a spirit_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o such_o a_o burdensome_a multiplicity_n of_o law_n all_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v little_a avayleable_a for_o their_o amendment_n and_o yet_o do_v abridge_v the_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n necessary_a to_o devout_a wellminded_a soul_n nourish_v scrupulosity_n etc._n etc._n in_o they_o 4._o let_v the_o best_a care_n that_o be_v possible_a be_v use_v notwithstanding_o some_o unfit_a person_n will_v through_o easiness_n partial_a affection_n or_o other_o respect_n in_o the_o examiner_n slip_v in_o if_o therefore_o those_o who_o be_v apparent_o bid_v be_v receive_v what_o a_o community_n will_v there_o be_v provide_v many_o that_o seem_v good_a will_v prove_v bad_a but_o seldom_o or_o never_o will_v those_o that_o appear_v bad_a become_v good_a god_n indeed_o can_v change_v the_o worst_a but_o yet_o a_o uncertain_a hope_n in_o extraordinary_a grace_n be_v not_o to_o be_v rely_v upon_o especial_o where_o
whereof_o it_o be_v very_o requisiite_v that_o the_o allow_v conversation_n shall_v be_v perform_v in_o common_a for_o from_o the_o single_v out_o of_o person_n by_o two_o or_o three_o in_o a_o meeting_n will_v flow_v personal_a engagement_n design_n divide_v from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o community_n discourse_n tend_v to_o the_o prejudice_n of_o other_o etc._n etc._n 3._o the_o true_a ground_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o abstraction_n be_v this_o because_o the_o divine_a union_n in_o spirit_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o a_o internal_a liver_n can_v be_v attâ—ained_v without_o a_o exclusion_n of_o all_o other_o inferior_a strange_a image_n &_o affection_n therefore_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o abstraction_n the_o soul_n be_v oblige_v to_o bring_v herself_o to_o as_o much_o unity_n vacancy_n &_o simplicity_n as_o may_v be_v for_o this_o end_n a_o religious_a soul_n leave_v the_o world_n &_o if_o she_o practise_v not_o abstraction_n in_o religion_n she_o do_v as_o good_a as_o return_v to_o that_o which_o by_o profession_n she_o have_v renounce_v to_o this_o purpose_n be_v that_o sentence_n of_o the_o wiseman_n sapientia_fw-la in_o tempore_fw-la vacuitatis_fw-la &_o qui_fw-la minoratur_fw-la actu_fw-la sapientiam_fw-la percipiet_fw-la that_o be_v wisdom_n be_v find_v in_o a_o state_n of_o vacancy_n &_o he_o that_o diminish_v external_a employment_n shall_v attain_v unto_o she_o 4._o i_o shall_v in_o the_o next_o treatise_n speak_v more_o on_o this_o subject_n especial_o give_v advice_n how_o a_o internal_a liver_n may_v without_o prejudice_n to_o his_o recollection_n behave_v himself_o in_o distractive_a employment_n &_o office_n impose_v on_o he_o &_o therefore_o i_o will_v say_v no_o more_o here_o 5._o the_o next_o general_a mortification_n be_v solitude_n which_o differ_v from_o abstraction_n only_o in_o this_o that_o solitude_n regard_v the_o exterior_a as_o abstraction_n do_v the_o interiour_n abstraction_n be_v a_o internal_a solitude_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o solitude_n a_o external_a abstraction_n of_o the_o person_n abstraction_n may_v by_o fervent_a soul_n be_v practise_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o noise_n &_o trouble_n of_o the_o world_n preserve_v themselves_o from_o all_o engagement_n of_o their_o affection_n in_o business_n or_o to_o person_n &_o ever_o remain_v free_a to_o attend_v unto_o god_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a some_o soul_n even_o in_o the_o most_o retire_a external_a solitude_n do_v whole_o plunge_v their_o mind_n &_o affection_n in_o thought_n &_o sollicitude_n about_o person_n &_o business_n abroad_o by_o continual_a endless_a writing_n &_o answer_a letter_n give_v advice_n inquire_v after_o news_n &c_n &c_n by_o which_o mean_n they_o do_v more_o embroyle_v their_o mind_n &_o be_v less_o capable_a of_o spiritual_a conversation_n with_o god_n than_o many_o that_o live_v in_o the_o world_n by_o reason_n that_o their_o retire_a state_n keep_v they_o in_o ignorance_n &_o uncertainty_n about_o the_o success_n of_o their_o advice_n &_o correspondence_n they_o be_v in_o a_o continual_a solicitude_n about_o any_o thing_n but_o their_o own_o soul_n 6._o so_o that_o if_o with_o externall_n solitude_n there_o be_v not_o join_v internal_a abstraction_n &_o prayer_n it_o be_v rather_o a_o hindrance_n than_o a_o instrument_n of_o advance_v spiritual_a perfection_n because_o such_o a_o soul_n be_v moreover_o always_o at_o leisure_n to_o attend_v to_o the_o object_n of_o her_o sollicitude_n &_o so_o root_n more_o fix_o all_o internal_a deordination_n of_o faction_n anger_n pride_n self_n love_n etc._n etc._n hence_o we_o see_v that_o faction_n grow_v sometime_o to_o a_o great_a violence_n in_o many_o retire_a community_n because_o of_o the_o vacancy_n there_o to_o attend_v to_o they_o the_o object_n of_o their_o passion_n likewise_o be_v in_o a_o manner_n continual_o present_a before_o their_o eye_n 7._o there_o be_v another_o which_o may_v be_v call_v a_o philosophical_a solitude_n make_v use_v of_o by_o religious_a person_n not_o with_o a_o design_n the_o more_o free_o to_o seek_v god_n but_o to_o attend_v to_o their_o study_n &_o the_o enrich_a their_o mind_n with_o much_o knowledge_n indeed_o study_v &_o read_v use_v with_o discretion_n &_o if_o the_o matter_n about_o which_o study_n be_v employ_v be_v not_o such_o as_o be_v apt_a to_o puff_n up_o the_o mind_n with_o pride_n or_o a_o forwardness_n to_o dispute_v &_o maintain_v topical_a opinion_n &c_n &c_n may_v be_v no_o inconvenient_a diversion_n for_o a_o contemplative_a spirit_n especial_o since_o that_o manual_a labour_n have_v be_v disuse_v but_o otherwise_o a_o inward_a affection_n to_o curiosity_n of_o knowledge_n be_v perhaps_o caeteris_fw-la paribus_fw-la more_o prejudicial_a to_o contemplation_n &_o produce_v effect_n more_o hurtful_a to_o the_o soul_n because_o more_o deep_o root_v in_o the_o spirit_n itself_o than_o some_o sensual_a affection_n 8._o the_o solitude_n therefore_o here_o recommend_v and_o which_o be_v proper_a to_o a_o religious_a life_n consist_v in_o a_o serious_a affection_n to_o our_o cell_n at_o all_o time_n when_o conventuall_a duty_n do_v not_o require_v the_o contrary_a &_o there_o admit_v no_o conversation_n but_o god_n nor_o no_o employment_n but_o for_o god_n keep_v thy_o cell_n say_v a_o ancient_a holy_a father_n &_o thy_o cell_n will_v teach_v thou_o all_o thing_n a_o soul_n that_o by_o use_v at_o first_o a_o little_a violence_n shall_v bring_v herself_o to_o a_o love_n of_o this_o solitude_n &_o that_o shall_v therefore_o love_v it_o because_o there_o she_o may_v more_o free_o &_o intimate_o converse_v with_o god_n it_o be_v incredible_a what_o progress_n she_o will_v make_v in_o internal_a way_n whereas_o from_o a_o neglect_n of_o such_o solitude_n nothing_o proceed_v but_o tepidity_n sensual_a design_n etc._n etc._n 9_o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o solitude_n may_v in_o the_o beginning_n become_v less_o tedious_a &_o afterward_o delightful_a religious_a person_n not_o only_o may_v but_o aught_o to_o preserve_v a_o convenient_a &_o discreet_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n about_o their_o employment_n &_o entertainment_n of_o their_o mind_n in_o private_a prudent_o use_v a_o variety_n in_o they_o change_v any_o one_o when_o it_o become_v over-burdensome_a into_o another_o more_o grateful_a sometime_o read_v sometime_o write_v other_o time_n work_v often_o pray_v yea_o if_o they_o shall_v find_v it_o convenient_a sometime_o remain_v for_o a_o short_a space_n in_o a_o kind_n of_o cessation_n from_o all_o both_o externall_n &_o internal_a work_v yet_o ever_o be_v at_o least_o in_o a_o virtual_a attention_n &_o tendance_n to_o god_n refer_v all_o to_o he_o &_o his_o glory_n for_o so_o they_o can_v true_o say_v with_o the_o psalmist_n fortitudinem_fw-la meam_fw-la ad_fw-la te_fw-la custodiam_fw-la i_o will_v reserve_v my_o principal_a strength_n to_o be_v employ_v for_o thou_o o_o my_o god_n all_o other_o employment_n not_o of_o obligation_n be_v both_o for_o the_o manner_n &_o measure_n to_o be_v order_v as_o shall_v be_v most_o commodious_a for_o the_o spirit_n that_o it_o may_v come_v with_o chearfullnes_n &_o a_o appetite_n to_o the_o appoint_a recollection_n suitable_a herto_o be_v the_o counsel_n give_v by_o a_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n to_o one_o of_o his_o brethren_n demand_v to_o what_o he_o shall_v apply_v himself_o in_o time_n out_o of_o prayer_n he_o answer_v whatsoever_o thy_o mind_n according_a to_o god_n shall_v bid_v thou_o do_v that_o do_v thou_o and_o indeed_o after_o a_o reasonable_a time_n well_o spend_v in_o solitude_n by_o the_o help_n of_o internal_a prayer_n a_o soul_n will_v receive_v a_o divine_a light_n by_o which_o she_o will_v clear_o see_v what_o shall_v be_v most_o convenient_a &_o proper_a for_o she_o at_o all_o time_n to_o do_v 10._o notwitstand_v this_o caution_n be_v to_o be_v use_v that_o if_o in_o any_o employment_n a_o soul_n do_v find_v herself_o carry_v to_o it_o with_o too_o much_o eagerne_v &_o affection_n she_o be_v to_o qualify_v such_o eagerne_n by_o forbear_v &_o a_o while_n interrupt_v her_o present_a exercise_n with_o a_o resignation_n of_o her_o will_n to_o be_v quite_o debar_v from_o it_o if_o such_o be_v god_n will_v for_o her_o good_a &_o actual_o refer_v it_o to_o god_n 11._o it_o be_v very_o remarkable_a the_o great_a &_o studious_a care_n that_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o his_o rule_n take_v to_o recommend_v solitude_n &_o to_o show_v the_o necessity_n of_o it_o as_o likewise_o to_o imprint_v deep_o in_o the_o mind_n of_o his_o disciple_n not_o only_o a_o great_a aversion_n but_o even_o a_o fear_n &_o horror_n of_o the_o world_n all_o thing_n must_v be_v provide_v &_o execute_v within_o door_n ut_fw-la non_fw-la sit_fw-la necessitas_fw-la evagandi_fw-la that_o no_o necessity_n may_v force_v the_o religious_a to_o be_v gad_v abroad_o and_o in_o case_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o unavoidable_a necessity_n thereto_o prayer_n be_v appoint_v to_o be_v make_v for_o
work_n read_v harken_v to_o a_o lesson_n recite_v say_v or_o hear_v mass_n communicate_v &c_n &c_n neither_o be_v there_o any_o negligence_n or_o irreverence_n commit_v by_o so_o do_v for_o by_o no_o operation_n so_o much_o as_o by_o aspiration_n do_v a_o soul_n enjoy_v a_o sublime_a and_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o exercise_n and_o duty_n and_o this_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o that_o say_n of_o mystic_n in_o god_n nothing_o be_v neglect_v yea_o some_o of_o they_o do_v affirm_v that_o there_o may_v be_v soul_n so_o perfect_a that_o even_o amid_o the_o noise_n and_o disorder_n of_o a_o camp_n they_o may_v without_o neglect_v their_o present_a duty_n there_o most_o efficacious_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o aspiration_n to_o god_n 17._o now_o the_o reason_n why_o aspiration_n be_v less_o hinder_v by_o external_a business_n then_o be_v meditation_n or_o immediate_a act_n be_v because_o in_o aspiration_n the_o understanding_n be_v scarce_o at_o all_o employ_v &_o therefore_o may_v well_o enough_o attend_v to_o other_o business_n and_o moreover_o the_o will_n abound_v &_o even_o overflow_a with_o divine_a love_n will_v not_o find_v herself_o interress_v in_o affection_n &_o consequent_o not_o distract_v by_o such_o employment_n 18._o there_o be_v great_a variety_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o produce_v aspiration_n for_o first_o some_o be_v pure_o mental_a be_v certain_a indeliberate_a quick_a elevation_n and_o springing_n up_o of_o the_o spirit_n to_o godward_a as_o sparkle_n of_o fire_n fly_v from_o a_o burn_a coal_n which_o be_v the_o expression_n of_o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a and_o of_o these_o some_o be_v more_o gross_a &_o imaginative_a especial_o in_o beginner_n &_o therefore_o not_o difficult_a to_o be_v express_v other_o in_o more_o perfect_a soul_n that_o be_v come_v to_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o spiritual_a abstraction_n grow_v more_o subtle_a &_o intellectual_a in_o so_o much_o as_o ofttimes_o the_o person_n himself_o can_v express_v what_o pass_v in_o his_o spirit_n which_o be_v indeed_o nothing_o but_o a_o blind_a &_o almost_o imperceptible_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v exercise_v in_o the_o summity_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o it_o happen_v ofttimes_o in_o the_o great_a desolation_n now_o this_o growth_n of_o immateriality_n in_o aspiration_n be_v not_o easy_o perceptible_a though_o it_o be_v real_a &_o certain_a as_o we_o know_v that_o corn_n grow_v though_o we_o can_v perceive_v its_o grow_a and_o indeed_o it_o be_v no_o great_a matter_n whether_o we_o observe_v such_o degree_n or_o no_o yea_o the_o examination_n thereof_o be_v better_o neglect_v 19_o again_o other_o aspiration_n be_v moreover_o external_o express_v by_o the_o tongue_n and_o in_o such_o expression_n sometime_o there_o be_v a_o proper_a sense_n and_o meaning_n as_o deus_fw-la meus_fw-la &_o omne_fw-la which_o be_v s._n francis_n his_o aspiration_n or_o noverim_fw-la te_fw-la &_o noverim_fw-la i_o which_o be_v s._n augustins_n and_o in_o these_o sometime_o a_o soul_n do_v abide_v a_o good_a space_n iterate_v again_o and_o again_o the_o same_o aspiration_n sometime_o she_o do_v vary_v always_o procede_v according_a to_o her_o interior_a impulse_n from_o god_n holy_a spirit_n other_o aspiration_n have_v no_o sense_n at_o all_o as_o be_v those_o practise_v by_o br._n massaeus_n a_o disciple_n of_o s._n francis_n who_o when_o he_o be_v full_a of_o interior_a affection_n can_v usual_o cry_v out_o nothing_o but_o v.u.u._n such_o unusual_a aspiration_n as_o these_o do_v show_v a_o great_a excess_n of_o interior_a fervour_n which_o burst_v out_o force_v the_o soul_n not_o able_a to_o contain_v itself_o nor_o yet_o to_o find_v out_o word_n by_o which_o to_o express_v her_o affection_n to_o power_n forth_o itself_o after_o such_o a_o unsignificant_a manner_n 20._o moreover_o aspiration_n &_o forcible_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v there_o be_v which_o be_v signify_v not_o by_o the_o tongue_n but_o by_o some_o extraordinary_a action_n of_o the_o body_n as_o clap_v of_o hand_n leap_v &c_n &c_n to_o this_o purpose_n we_o have_v a_o example_n of_o another_o disciple_n of_o s._n francis_n call_v br._n bernard_n who_o out_o of_o a_o inward_a boil_a fervour_n be_v force_v to_o run_v over_o mountain_n &_o rocky_a place_n be_v agitate_a with_o a_o kind_n of_o holy_a frenzy_n in_o such_o case_n as_o these_o tear_n be_v very_o rare_a god_n holy_a spirit_n not_o usual_o move_v thereto_o because_o they_o will_v then_o flow_v unmeasurable_o to_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o corporal_a health_n 21._o now_o such_o action_n &_o motion_n though_o they_o may_v be_v yield_v to_o sometime_o when_o one_o be_v alone_o yet_o in_o company_n they_o be_v to_o be_v suppress_v to_o which_o purpose_n blosius_n give_v this_o good_a instruction_n out_o of_o thaulerus_n that_o albeit_o these_o thing_n be_v good_a as_o flow_a from_o a_o divine_a principle_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o the_o thing_n principal_o to_o be_v commend_v for_o these_o union_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n to_o which_o corporal_a nature_n concurre_v be_v not_o to_o be_v equal_v to_o that_o most_o perfect_a union_n which_o some_o soul_n do_v experience_n in_o pure_a spirit_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o such_o violent_a agitation_n do_v chief_o befall_v such_o soul_n as_o have_v have_v their_o exercise_n much_o in_o sensible_a devotion_n as_o woman_n &_o devout_a ignorant_a man_n and_o on_o the_o same_o ground_n such_o be_v more_o dispose_v to_o rapt_n ecstasy_n etc._n etc._n 22._o last_o to_o these_o several_a expression_n of_o aspiration_n may_v be_v add_v that_o of_o say_v the_o divine_a office_n or_o other_o vocal_a prayer_n aspirative_o which_o be_v a_o far_o great_a proof_n of_o sublime_a contemplation_n than_o any_o of_o these_o unusual_a motion_n &c_n &c_n this_o be_v the_o contemplation_n of_o many_o of_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n &_o be_v no_o doubt_n of_o some_o in_o these_o day_n as_o a_o certain_a spiritual_a writer_n say_v of_o himself_o that_o be_v in_o the_o constant_a exercise_n of_o aspiration_n use_v daily_o two_o recollection_n consist_v of_o they_o on_o a_o time_n he_o find_v himself_o invite_v to_o produce_v they_o vocal_o and_o thereupon_o he_o take_v in_o hand_n the_o say_n of_o our_o lady_n office_n choose_v that_o because_o he_o can_v say_v it_o perfect_o without-booke_n he_o repeat_v it_o nine_o or_o ten_o time_n a_o day_n with_o a_o perfect_a attention_n of_o spirit_n the_o which_o mental_a attention_n or_o operation_n be_v in_o effect_n but_o aspiration_n take_v the_o word_n as_o here_o we_o do_v in_o a_o large_a sense_n and_o so_o for_o a_o few_o day_n as_o long_o as_o that_o invitation_n and_o enablement_n last_v he_o use_v no_o other_o internal_a exercise_n find_v great_a benefit_n by_o this_o but_o that_o invitation_n cease_v he_o find_v himself_o again_o oblige_v to_o return_v to_o mere_a mental_a aspiration_n 23._o i_o will_v conclude_v this_o point_n with_o set_v down_o some_o of_o the_o great_a and_o inestimable_a benefit_n that_o accrue_v to_o soul_n by_o this_o sublime_a exercise_n as_o first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o interior_a sense_n and_o sensitive_a faculty_n the_o dominion_n that_o the_o superior_a soul_n have_v over_o they_o be_v now_o become_v very_o great_a for_o in_o as_o much_o as_o it_o be_v god_n that_o help_v move_v and_o direct_v soul_n in_o their_o operation_n during_o this_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n the_o heart_n also_o be_v estrange_v from_o the_o love_n of_o creature_n and_o replenish_v with_o divine_a love_n distractive_a thought_n &_o image_n of_o creature_n either_o do_v not_o press_v into_o the_o mind_n or_o if_o they_o do_v yet_o they_o pass_v no_o far_o then_o into_o the_o imagination_n or_o if_o the_o understanding_n do_v sometime_o busy_v itself_o with_o they_o yet_o they_o do_v scarce_o or_o not_o at_o all_o touch_n or_o affect_v the_o will_n the_o which_o be_v not_o by_o such_o extravagant_a thought_n interrupt_v or_o divert_v in_o her_o pursuit_n of_o aspiration_n and_o blind_a elevation_n whereas_o in_o immediate_a force_a act_n great_a force_n be_v to_o be_v use_v against_o such_o distraction_n which_o do_v not_o only_o busy_v the_o understanding_n but_o likewise_o more_o or_o less_o withdraw_v the_o will_n from_o god_n 24._o second_o in_o regard_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n though_o the_o devil_n may_v have_v great_a influence_n upon_o it_o in_o meditation_n or_o even_o sometime_o in_o immediate_a affection_n and_o act_n seek_v thereby_o to_o seduce_v soul_n to_o extravagance_n and_o a_o spiritual_a gluttony_n it_o be_v otherwise_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n which_o be_v so_o much_o elevate_v above_o the_o imagination_n and_o sensitive_a nature_n that_o here_o he_o have_v no_o advantage_n give_v he_o for_o such_o deceit_n and_o if_o during_o that_o sensible_a devotion_n
the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v most_o perfect_o perform_v in_o internal_a prayer_n in_o attention_n to_o and_o union_n with_o god_n in_o spirit_n what_o a_o expert_a persuade_v &_o subtle_a master_n love_n be_v beyond_o study_n or_o consideration_n we_o see_v even_o in_o natural_a and_o secular_a business_n one_o that_o be_v immerse_v in_o sensual_a love_n to_o any_o person_n have_v no_o need_n of_o instruction_n or_o book_n to_o teach_v he_o the_o art_n of_o love_v we_o see_v how_o skilful_a on_o the_o sudden_a such_o a_o one_o become_v in_o the_o way_n how_o to_o please_v the_o person_n belove_v he_o lose_v not_o neither_o out_o of_o ignorance_n nor_o negligence_n the_o least_o opportunity_n to_o ingratiate_v himself_o he_o understand_v the_o mind_n and_o intention_n of_o the_o other_o by_o the_o least_o sign_n the_o motion_n of_o a_o hand_n the_o cast_n of_o a_o eye_n be_v sufficient_a to_o inform_v he_o and_o set_v he_o on_o work_n to_o attempt_v any_o thing_n or_o procure_v any_o thing_n that_o may_v content_v the_o party_n the_o like_a subtlety_n and_o perspicacy_n we_o may_v see_v in_o those_o earthy_a soul_n which_o cleave_v with_o a_o earnest_a affection_n unto_o riches_n what_o subtle_a way_n do_v they_o find_v out_o to_o increase_v their_o wealth_n such_o trifle_a inconsiderable_a thing_n they_o make_v use_v of_o for_o that_o purpose_n as_o another_o will_v not_o take_v notice_n of_o or_o can_v not_o see_v how_o to_o make_v profit_n by_o they_o they_o have_v almost_o a_o prophetical_a spirit_n to_o foresee_v danger_n where_o none_o be_v and_o advantage_n probable_a or_o possible_a to_o happen_v many_o year_n after_o 17._o now_o how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o the_o eye_n of_o love_n be_v so_o quicksighted_n sure_o by_o this_o that_o where_o love_n to_o any_o particular_a object_n be_v predominant_a it_o subdue_v all_o other_o affection_n to_o all_o other_o object_n which_o will_v distract_v the_o thought_n and_o seduce_v the_o will_n from_o contemplate_v and_o adhere_v to_o the_o thing_n so_o belove_v 18._o upon_o such_o ground_n therefore_o as_o these_o it_o be_v that_o s._n augustin_n call_v divine_a love_n luminosissimam_fw-la charitatem_fw-la most_o full_a of_o light_n and_o most_o enlighten_v for_o a_o soul_n that_o true_o love_v god_n with_o a_o love_n worthy_a of_o he_o have_v the_o mind_n clear_v from_o all_o strange_a image_n and_o the_o will_v purify_v from_o all_o strange_a affection_n be_v thereby_o enable_v pure_o to_o contemplate_v god_n without_o any_o distraction_n at_o all_o and_o be_v desirous_a in_o all_o thing_n to_o please_v he_o know_v how_o to_o make_v advantage_n of_o all_o occurrence_n light_a and_o darkness_n consolation_n and_o desolation_n pain_n and_o pleasure_n all_o these_o contribute_v to_o the_o advance_v of_o this_o love._n yea_o there_o be_v nothing_o so_o indifferent_a or_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n so_o inconsiderable_a but_o that_o such_o a_o soul_n can_v perceive_v how_o use_n may_v be_v make_v of_o it_o to_o please_v god_n thereby_o 19_o now_o since_o pure_a love_n be_v exercise_v immediate_o to_o god_n only_o in_o pure_a prayer_n by_o which_o alone_o the_o spirit_n be_v unite_v to_o he_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o prayer_n be_v the_o only_a efficacious_a instrument_n to_o obtain_v supernatural_a light_n according_a the_o say_n of_o david_n accedite_fw-la ad_fw-la deum_fw-la &_o illuminamini_fw-la approach_v unto_o god_n by_o prayer_n and_o you_o shall_v be_v enlighten_v and_o hence_o also_o it_o be_v that_o the_o same_o holy_a prophet_n so_o earnest_o and_o frequent_o above_o twenty_o time_n in_o one_o psalm_n 118._o pray_v for_o such_o light_n to_o understand_v and_o discover_v the_o wonderful_a thing_n of_o god_n law_n and_o what_o be_v those_o wonderful_a thing_n sure_o not_o to_o be_v inform_v that_o murder_n or_o adultery_n be_v sin_n or_o general_o that_o god_n be_v to_o be_v love_v with_o the_o whole_a soul_n for_o much_o more_o knowledge_n he_o have_v then_o this_o before_o he_o pray_v but_o be_v desirous_a to_o give_v himself_o whole_o to_o god_n and_o to_o perform_v his_o will_n alone_o in_o all_o thing_n he_o so_o oft_o make_v use_n of_o prayer_n for_o the_o obtain_v a_o extraordinary_a light_n to_o be_v have_v no_o other_o way_n but_o by_o prayer_n that_o he_o may_v thereby_o be_v enable_v to_o discover_v and_o find_v out_o the_o divine_a will_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o case_n and_o doubtful_a circumstance_n 20._o now_o only_a such_o inspiration_n and_o such_o illumination_n as_o these_o do_v spiritual_a person_n pretend_v to_o by_o the_o mean_a of_o prayer_n and_o attend_v to_o god_n and_o if_o they_o do_v exercise_v prayer_n with_o a_o due_a fervour_n and_o constancy_n these_o they_o shall_v most_o certain_o enjoy_v and_o that_o in_o such_o a_o measure_n that_o whereas_o the_o great_a part_n of_o ordinary_a good_a christian_n be_v so_o dim-sighted_n as_o to_o see_v the_o divine_a will_n only_o in_o circumstance_n where_o there_o be_v a_o necessary_a obligation_n so_o that_o they_o spend_v the_o far_o great_a part_n of_o their_o life_n in_o action_n that_o do_v no_o way_n advance_v they_o in_o divine_a love_n be_v wrought_v chief_o in_o virtue_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o self-love_n and_o interest_n of_o nature_n those_o that_o be_v perfect_o internal_a liver_n be_v cloud_v by_o no_o vain_a image_n and_o distract_v by_o no_o inferior_a affection_n do_v see_v the_o divine_a will_n clear_o in_o the_o minute_a affair_n which_o they_o according_o make_v advantage_n by_o to_o improve_v themselves_o in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o love_n so_o proportionable_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o light_n and_o thus_o i_o suppose_v the_o pretend_a inconvenience_n suspect_v to_o flow_v from_o the_o publish_n of_o this_o doctrine_n will_v appear_v to_o be_v only_o pretend_v and_o causeless_o fear_v 21._o but_o the_o other_o objection_n at_o the_o first_o sight_n seem_v more_o considerable_a as_o imply_v a_o far_o great_a and_o more_o certain_a inconvenience_n and_o danger_n that_o may_v ensue_v upon_o the_o publish_n of_o this_o doctrine_n concern_v divine_a inspiration_n illumination_n and_o call_n for_o thus_o they_o argue_v it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o fanatic_a sectary_n which_o now_o swarm_v in_o england_n more_o than_o ever_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o take_v advantage_n from_o hence_o to_o justify_v all_o their_o frenzy_n and_o disorder_n all_o which_o they_o impute_v with_o all_o confidence_n to_o divine_a inspiration_n illumination_n and_o impulse_n for_o can_v we_o forbid_v they_o to_o practice_v what_o we_o ourselves_o teach_v to_o be_v a_o christian_a duty_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v apparent_a what_o fearful_a and_o execrable_a effect_n the_o practice_n of_o this_o pretend_a duty_n do_v produce_v among_o they_o it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n say_v they_o that_o their_o progenitour_n do_v break_v out_o of_o the_o church_n and_o by_o inspiration_n they_o do_v still_o introduce_v endlesse_o new_a fancy_n and_o practice_n it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n that_o they_o endanger_v the_o ruin_n of_o christianity_n itself_o by_o infinite_a schism_n and_o pestilent_a reformation_n it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n that_o they_o employ_v the_o gospel_n to_o destroy_v the_o gospel_n from_o thence_o preach_v heresy_n in_o church_n and_o chamber_n sedition_n in_o state_n rebellion_n against_o prince_n and_o prelate_n so_o destroy_v all_o order_n unity_n and_o peace_n every_o where_o these_o thing_n consider_v what_o can_v be_v more_o reasonable_a than_o that_o we_o shall_v take_v heed_n how_o we_o furnish_v they_o thus_o with_o arm_n to_o maintain_v themselves_o and_o to_o fight_v against_o god_n &_o his_o church_n 22._o this_o be_v the_o objection_n which_o though_o it_o have_v a_o fearful_a show_v yet_o be_v well_o examine_v it_o will_v prove_v no_o less_o weak_o ground_v then_o the_o former_a for_o the_o demonstrate_v therefore_o of_o the_o inconsequence_n of_o it_o i_o will_v by_o way_n of_o preparation_n lay_v down_o these_o follow_a undeniable_a principle_n brief_o mention_v before_o viz._n 23._o first_n that_o divine_a inspiration_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a in_o precept_n for_o the_o avoid_v of_o sin_n and_o in_o counsel_n for_o the_o gain_n of_o perfection_n that_o without_o they_o no_o action_n of_o we_o can_v be_v good_a or_o meritorious_a yea_o the_o duty_n of_o obligation_n which_o we_o perform_v or_o counsel_n of_o perfection_n free_o obey_v by_o we_o be_v only_o so_o far_o acceptable_a to_o god_n as_o they_o proceed_v from_o his_o inspiration_n and_o motion_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n this_o be_v not_o only_o a_o undoubted_a verity_n but_o one_o of_o the_o most_o fundamental_a verity_n of_o christian_a religion_n which_o attribute_n all_o good_a in_o we_o to_o the_o divine_a grace_n and_o what_o be_v grace_n but_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n of_o
divine_a light_n by_o which_o their_o understanding_n have_v be_v illustrate_v &_o that_o divine_a love_n by_o which_o their_o will_n &_o affection_n adhere_v continual_o to_o god_n they_o be_v render_v incapable_a either_o of_o contemplate_v god_n except_o only_o as_o a_o severe_a judge_n &_o avenger_n or_o consequent_o of_o afford_v he_o any_o degree_n of_o love_n on_o the_o contrary_a both_o their_o mind_n and_o affection_n be_v only_o employ_v on_o themselves_o or_o on_o creature_n for_o their_o own_o natural_a carnal_a interest_n or_o pleasure_n &_o this_o with_o such_o a_o violent_a obstinacy_n &_o firmness_n that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o they_o by_o any_o force_n leave_v in_o corrupt_a nature_n to_o raise_v their_o love_n towards_o god_n be_v once_o so_o impetuous_o precipitate_v from_o he_o towards_o themselves_o 5._o all_o these_o miserable_a depravation_n have_v be_v cause_v in_o all_o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n of_o their_o soul_n by_o the_o forbid_a fruit_n the_o which_o utter_o &_o irreparable_o disorder_v that_o most_o healthful_a exact_a temper_n of_o their_o bodily_a constitution_n insomuch_o as_o the_o spirit_n &_o humour_n etc._n etc._n which_o before_o do_v nothing_o at_o all_o hinder_v their_o exercising_n &_o operation_n towards_o god_n but_o do_v much_o promote_v they_o now_o do_v whole_o dispose_v they_o to_o love_n &_o seek_v themselves_o only_o with_o a_o utter_a aversion_n from_o god_n &_o the_o accomplish_n of_o his_o divine_a will_n &_o all_o circumstant_fw-la creature_n instead_o of_o be_v step_n to_o raise_v they_o towards_o god_n on_o the_o contrary_n more_o and_o more_o seduce_v their_o affection_n from_o he_o &_o raise_v all_o other_o inordinate_a passion_n displease_v to_o he_o hereby_o in_o lieu_n of_o that_o peaceable_a and_o happy_a condition_n which_o they_o before_o enjoy_v in_o this_o world_n by_o a_o continual_a union_n with_o god_n the_o which_o be_v to_o be_v perfect_v eternal_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v they_o become_v disquiet_v distract_v and_o even_o tear_v asunder_o with_o a_o multitude_n of_o passion_n and_o design_n oft_o contrary_a to_o one_o another_o but_o all_o of_o they_o much_o more_o opposite_a to_o god_n so_o that_o by_o fall_v from_o unity_n to_o a_o miserable_a multiplicity_n and_o from_o peace_n to_o a_o endless_a war_n they_o be_v therein_o captive_v by_o the_o devil_n ready_o yield_v to_o all_o his_o suggestion_n hateful_a to_o &_o hate_v god_n &_o so_o contract_v not_o only_o a_o unavoidable_a necessity_n of_o a_o corporal_a death_n but_o also_o the_o guilt_n &_o right_n to_o a_o eternal_a separation_n from_o god_n after_o death_n in_o that_o lake_n of_o fire_n &_o brimstone_n burn_v for_o ever_o &_o prepare_v for_o the_o devil_n &_o his_o angel_n 6._o now_o the_o whole_a stock_n of_o humane_a nature_n be_v thus_o total_o &_o universal_o deprave_a in_o our_o first_o parent_n it_o can_v not_o by_o any_o possible_a natural_a mean_n be_v avoid_v but_o that_o all_o their_o posterity_n shall_v be_v equal_o infect_v &_o poison_v with_o all_o these_o disorder_n all_o which_o be_v increase_v &_o daily_o heighten_v by_o ill_a education_n &_o actual_a transgression_n and_o consequent_o the_o same_o guilt_n both_o of_o temporal_a &_o erernall_a death_n be_v with_o all_o transfuse_v upon_o they_o 7._o but_o almighty_a god_n the_o father_n of_o mercy_n pity_v his_o own_o creature_n thus_o ingulf_v in_o utter_a misery_n by_o the_o fault_n of_o adam_n seduce_v by_o his_o &_o our_o common_a enemy_n do_v in_o his_o most_o unspeakable_a mercy_n free_o &_o unasked_a provide_v &_o ordain_v his_o own_o coeternall_a son_n to_o be_v a_o saviour_n unto_o mankind_n who_o by_o his_o most_o bitter_a suffering_n &_o death_n redeem_v we_o from_o the_o guilt_n of_o eternal_a death_n &_o by_o his_o glorious_a life_n &_o resurrection_n have_v obtain_v a_o power_n of_o send_v the_o holy_a ghost_n communicate_v to_o we_o in_o his_o word_n &_o sacrament_n &c_n &c_n he_o have_v rectify_v all_o these_o disorder_n shed_v forth_o a_o new_a heavenly_a light_n to_o cure_v the_o blindness_n of_o our_o understanding_n &_o divine_a charity_n in_o our_o heart_n the_o which_o abate_v that_o inordinate_a self-love_n former_o reign_v in_o we_o &_o hereby_o he_o reinstate_v we_o cooperate_n with_o his_o divine_a grace_n &_o persevere_v therein_o to_o a_o new_a right_n unto_o eternal_a happiness_n perhaps_o more_o sublime_a than_o man_n in_o innocency_n be_v destine_v to_o 8._o notwhichstand_v it_o be_v not_o the_o good_a will_n &_o pleasure_n of_o god_n by_o this_o reparation_n to_o restore_v we_o to_o the_o same_o state_n of_o perfect_a holiness_n wherein_o adam_n live_v in_o paradise_n and_o this_o we_o ought_v to_o ascribe_v to_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n &_o also_o to_o his_o unspeakable_a goodness_n towards_o we_o for_o certain_o if_o we_o have_v be_v once_o more_o leave_v as_o adam_n be_v in_o the_o free_a power_n of_o our_o own_o will_n that_o be_v in_o so_o casual_a a_o estate_n as_o adam_n be_v &_o assist_v &_o fortify_v with_o no_o strong_a a_o aid_n then_o the_o primitive_a grace_n we_o shall_v again_o have_v irreparable_o forfeit_v all_o our_o happiness_n &_o plunge_v ourselves_o far_o more_o deep_o in_o endless_a misery_n 9_o therefore_o allmightie_a god_n think_v fit_a for_o our_o humiliation_n &_o to_o keep_v we_o in_o continual_a vigilance_n &_o fear_n as_o also_o thereby_o daily_o to_o refresh_v the_o memory_n of_o our_o primitive_a guilt_n &_o our_o thank_n fullnes_n for_o his_o inestimable_a goodness_n to_o leave_v we_o in_o a_o necessity_n of_o incur_v temporal_a death_n which_o we_o be_v not_o now_o to_o look_v on_o as_o a_o punishment_n of_o sin_n so_o much_o as_o a_o freedom_n from_o sin_n &_o a_o gate_n &_o entrance_n to_o eternal_a glory_n moreover_o though_o by_o his_o grace_n he_o have_v abolish_v the_o guilt_n of_o original_a sin_n yet_o he_o have_v suffer_v still_o to_o remain_v in_o we_o many_o bitter_a effect_n of_o it_o the_o which_o shall_v never_o in_o this_o life_n be_v so_o whole_o extinguish_v by_o grace_n or_o our_o holy_a endeavour_n but_o that_o some_o degree_n of_o ignorance_n &_o inclination_n to_o that_o pernicious_a love_n of_o ourselves_o will_v remain_v in_o us._n by_o which_o mean_n we_o be_v preserve_v from_o our_o great_a enemy_n pride_n &_o also_o force_v to_o a_o continual_a watchfullnes_n &_o combat_n against_o ourselves_o &_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n always_o distrust_v ourselves_o &_o rely_v upon_o the_o medicinal_a omnipotent_a regenerate_a grace_n of_o christ_n far_o more_o helpful_a to_o we_o then_o the_o grace_n of_o innocency_n be_v in_o that_o it_o not_o only_o more_o powerful_o incline_v our_o will_n &_o conquer_v the_o actual_a resistance_n of_o they_o by_o make_v they_o free_o cooperate_v with_o it_o whensoever_o they_o do_v cooperate_v for_o it_o take_v not_o away_o our_o liberty_n to_o resist_v but_o like_o wise_a after_o it_o have_v be_v weaken_v by_o venial_a sin_n &_o extinguish_v by_o mortal_a it_o be_v again_o &_o again_o renew_v by_o the_o mean_n of_o the_o sacrament_n &_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n 10._o our_o duty_n therefore_o in_o our_o present_a state_n &_o the_o employment_n of_o our_o whole_a life_n must_v be_v constant_o &_o fervent_o to_o cooperate_v with_o divine_a grace_n thereby_o endeavour_v not_o only_a to_o get_v victory_n over_o self-love_n pride_n sensuality_n &c_n &c_n by_o humility_n divine_a love_n &_o all_o other_o virtue_n but_o also_o not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o any_o limit_a degree_n of_o piety_n &_o holiness_n but_o daily_o to_o aspire_v according_a to_o our_o ability_n assist_v with_o grace_n by_o the_o same_o way_n to_o the_o same_o perfection_n for_o which_o we_o be_v first_o create_v &_o which_o be_v practise_v by_o adam_n in_o innocence_n to_o wit_n a_o utter_a extinguish_n of_o self-love_n &_o all_o affection_n to_o creature_n except_o in_o order_n to_o god_n &_o as_o they_o may_v be_v instrumental_a to_o beget_v &_o increase_v divine_a love_n in_o we_o &_o a_o continual_a uninterrupt_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o faith_n contemplate_v he_o &_o by_o love_n ever_o adhere_v to_o he_o 11._o this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o duty_n &_o indispensable_a obligation_n of_o all_o christian_n of_o what_o condition_n soever_o not_o only_o serious_o to_o aspire_v to_o the_o divine_a love_n but_o also_o to_o the_o perfection_n thereof_o suitable_o to_o their_o several_a state_n &_o vocation_n for_o it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o love_n god_n as_o he_o ought_v to_o be_v love_v that_o be_v as_o the_o only_a object_n of_o her_o love_n &_o as_o the_o only_a universal_a end_n of_o she_o be_v &_o life_n for_o the_o procure_n of_o a_o inseparable_a union_n with_o who_o &_o for_o no_o other_o reason_n the_o use_n &_o comfort_n of_o creature_n be_v permit_v &_o give_v
and_o likewise_o the_o security_n and_o benefitt_a of_o be_v but_o true_o in_o the_o way_n to_o perfection_n though_o she_o shall_v never_o attain_v to_o it_o in_o this_o life_n 6._o first_o therefore_o to_o demonstrate_v that_o the_o way_n to_o perfection_n must_v needs_o be_v long_o and_o tedious_a even_o to_o soul_n well_o dispose_v thereto_o both_o by_o nature_n and_o education_n for_o to_o other_o it_o be_v a_o way_n unpassable_a with_o out_o extreme_a difficulty_n this_o will_v easy_o be_v acknowledge_v by_o any_o well-minded_a soul_n that_o by_o she_o own_o experience_n will_v consider_v how_o obstinate_a inflexible_a and_o of_o how_o glewy_a &_o tenacious_a a_o nature_n corrupt_a self-love_n be_v in_o she_o how_o long_o a_o time_n must_v pass_v before_o she_o can_v subdue_v any_o one_o habitual_a ill_a inclination_n &_o affection_n in_o herself_o what_o fall_n &_o rise_v again_o there_o be_v in_o our_o passion_n &_o corrupt_a desire_n in_o somuch_o as_o when_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v quite_o mortify_v &_o almost_o forget_v they_o will_v again_o raise_v themselves_o &_o combat_v we_o with_o as_o great_a or_o perhaps_o great_a violence_n than_o before_o now_o till_o the_o poysonnous_a root_n of_o self-love_n be_v wither_v so_o as_o that_o we_o do_v not_o knowing_o and_o deliberate_o suffer_v it_o to_o spring_v forth_o &_o bear_v fruit_n for_o utter_o kill_v it_o never_o will_v be_v in_o this_o life_n till_o we_o have_v lose_v at_o least_o all_o affection_n to_o all_o our_o corrupt_a desire_n even_o the_o most_o venial_a which_o be_v almost_o infinite_a perfect_a charity_n will_v never_o reign_v in_o our_o soul_n and_o consequent_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n can_v be_v expect_v for_o charity_n live_v &_o grow_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n that_o self-love_n be_v abate_v and_o no_o further_o 7._o soul_n that_o first_o enter_v into_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n or_o that_o have_v make_v no_o great_a progress_n in_o they_o be_v guide_v by_o a_o very_a dim_a light_n be_v able_a to_o discover_v and_o discern_v only_o a_o few_o grosser_n defect_n &_o inordination_n but_o by_o persevere_v in_o the_o exercice_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n this_o light_n will_v be_v increase_v &_o then_o they_o will_v proportionable_o every_o day_n more_o &_o more_o discover_v a_o thousand_o secret_a and_o former_o invisible_a impurity_n in_o their_o intention_n selfe-sekings_a hypocrisy_n and_o close_a design_n of_o nature_n pursue_v she_o own_o corrupt_a design_n in_o the_o very_o best_a action_n cherish_v nature_n one_o way_n when_o she_o mortify_v it_o another_o and_o favour_a pride_n even_o when_o she_o exercise_v humility_n now_o a_o clear_a light_n to_o discover_v all_o these_o almost_o infinite_a depravation_n not_o only_o in_o our_o sensitive_a nature_n but_o also_o in_o the_o superior_a soul_n which_o be_v far_o more_o secret_a manifold_a &_o dangerous_a and_o a_o courage_n with_o success_n to_o combat_n &_o overcome_v they_o must_v be_v the_o effect_n of_o a_o long_a continue_a practice_n of_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n 8._o the_o want_n of_o a_o due_a knowledge_n or_o consideration_n hereof_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o some_o good_a soul_n after_o they_o have_v make_v some_o progress_n in_o internal_a way_n become_v dishearten_v and_o in_o danger_n to_o stop_v or_o quite_o leave_v they_o for_o though_o at_o the_o first_o be_v as_o usual_o they_o be_v prevent_v by_o god_n with_o a_o tender_a sensible_a devotion_n which_o our_o holy_a father_n call_v feruorem_fw-la novitium_fw-la they_o do_v with_o much_o zeal_n &_o as_o it_o seem_v to_o they_o with_o good_a effect_n begin_v the_o exercise_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n yet_o afterward_o such_o sensible_a fervour_n &_o tenderness_n cease_v as_o it_o seldom_o fail_v to_o do_v by_o that_o new_a light_n which_o they_o have_v get_v they_o discern_v a_o world_n of_o defect_n former_o undiscovered_a which_o they_o erroneous_o think_v be_v not_o in_o they_o before_o whereupon_o fear_v that_o instead_o of_o make_v progress_n they_o be_v in_o a_o worse_a state_n than_o when_o they_o begin_v they_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o suspect_v that_o they_o be_v in_o a_o wrong_a way_n this_o proceed_v from_o a_o preconceive_a mistake_n that_o because_o in_o time_n of_o light_n &_o devotion_n the_o soul_n find_v herself_o carry_v with_o much_o fervour_n to_o god_n and_o perceive_v but_o small_a contradiction_n and_o rebellion_n in_o inferior_a nature_n that_o therefore_o she_o be_v very_o forward_o in_o the_o way_n to_o perfection_n whereas_o it_o be_v far_o otherwise_o for_o nature_n be_v not_o so_o easy_o conquer_v as_o she_o imagine_v neither_o be_v the_o way_n to_o perfection_n so_o easy_a and_o short_a many_o change_n she_o must_v expect_v many_o rise_n and_o fall_n some_o time_n light_a and_o some_o time_n darkness_n sometime_o calmness_n of_o passion_n and_o present_o after_o it_o may_v be_v fierce_a combat_n than_o before_o and_o these_o succession_n of_o change_n repeat_v god_n know_v how_o oft_o before_o the_o end_n approach_v 9_o yea_o it_o will_v likely_a happen_v to_o such_o soul_n that_o even_o the_o former_o well_o know_v grosser_n defect_n in_o they_o will_v seem_v to_o increase_v and_o to_o grow_v more_o hard_a to_o be_v quelld_v after_o they_o have_v be_v competent_o advance_v in_o internal_a way_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o have_v set_v themselves_o to_o combat_v corrupt_a nature_n in_o all_o her_o perverse_a crooked_a &_o impure_a desire_n and_o be_v sequester_v from_o the_o vanity_n of_o the_o world_n they_o find_v themselves_o in_o continual_a wrestle_n and_o agony_n and_o want_n those_o please_a diversion_n conversation_n &_o recreation_n with_o which_o while_o they_o live_v a_o secular_a negligent_a life_n they_o can_v interrupt_v or_o put_v of_o their_o melancholic_a thought_n and_o unquietnes_n but_o if_o they_o will_v take_v courage_n &_o instead_o of_o seek_v ease_n from_o nature_n further_a than_o discretion_n allow_v have_v recourse_n for_o remedy_n by_o prayer_n to_o god_n they_o will_v find_v that_o such_o violent_a tentation_n be_v a_o assure_a sign_n that_o they_o be_v in_o a_o secure_a &_o happy_a way_n and_o that_o when_o god_n see_v it_o be_v best_o for_o they_o they_o shall_v come_v of_o from_o such_o combat_n with_o victory_n &_o comfort_n 10._o now_o as_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o tediousness_n of_o a_o perfect_a universal_a mortification_n of_o the_o corrupt_a affection_n of_o nature_n it_o do_v appear_v that_o hasty_a perfection_n be_v not_o ordinary_o to_o be_v expect_v and_o where_o there_o be_v appearance_n of_o extraordinary_a light_n &_o supernatural_a visit_n in_o soul_n not_o thorough_o mortify_v it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o there_o have_v be_v some_o secret_a exorbitancy_n in_o the_o proceed_n of_o such_o soul_n some_o deep_o root_v pride_n etc._n etc._n which_o have_v expose_v they_o to_o the_o devil_n illusion_n so_o that_o then_o state_n be_v very_o dangerous_a the_o like_a will_v appear_v if_o we_o cast_v our_o eye_n upon_o the_o nature_n &_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o the_o perfection_n of_o which_o the_o end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n which_o be_v perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n do_v consist_v 11._o for_o a_o soul_n must_v 1._o ordinary_o speak_v pass_v through_o the_o way_n of_o external_a and_o imaginary_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n in_o the_o which_o she_o must_v tarry_v god_n know_v how_o long_a yea_o with_o out_o a_o discreet_a diligence_n and_o constancy_n in_o they_o she_o may_v perhaps_o end_v her_o day_n therein_o 2._o then_o when_o her_o affection_n do_v so_o abound_v and_o be_v sufficient_o ripe_a so_o as_o that_o discourse_n be_v not_o needful_a or_o become_v of_o little_a efficacy_n she_o be_v to_o betake_v herself_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n in_o the_o which_o a_o very_a long_a time_n must_v ordinary_o be_v spend_v before_o she_o can_v chase_v away_o distract_n grosser_n image_n and_o before_o the_o heart_n be_v so_o replenish_v with_o the_o divine_a spirit_n that_o without_o any_o election_n or_o deliberation_n it_o will_v of_o itself_o almost_o continual_o break_v forth_o into_o aspiration_n &_o pure_a elevation_n of_o the_o superior_a will_n 3._o be_v arrive_v to_o this_o happy_a state_n only_a god_n know_v for_o how_o long_o a_o time_n she_o be_v to_o continue_v therein_o there_o be_v almost_o infinite_a degree_n of_o aspiration_n each_o one_o exceed_v the_o former_a in_o purity_n before_o she_o be_v ripe_a for_o the_o divine_a inaction_n 4._o and_o have_v get_v that_o a_o very_a long_a time_n be_v like_a to_o be_v spend_v very_o oft_o in_o most_o woeful_a obscurity_n and_o desolation_n before_o she_o arrive_v 5._o to_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n now_o all_o these_o degree_n of_o prayer_n be_v to_o be_v attend_v with_o proportionable_a degree_n
of_o mortification_n so_o that_o no_o wonder_n be_v it_o if_o so_o very_a few_o even_o of_o those_o who_o profession_n it_o be_v to_o aspire_v thereunto_o do_v find_v or_o attain_v unto_o this_o end_n part_o out_o of_o ignorance_n and_o error_n while_o they_o place_v perfection_n in_o a_o exact_a performance_n of_o outward_a observance_n and_o austerity_n the_o which_o though_o be_v well_o use_v they_o may_v be_v certain_o very_o proper_a help_n to_o perfection_n and_o be_v according_o to_o be_v due_o esteem_v yet_o if_o they_o be_v undertake_v for_o any_o end_n of_o nature_n and_o not_o for_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o interior_a and_o dispose_v it_o for_o more_o perfect_a prayer_n be_v of_o no_o value_v at_o all_o but_o rather_o proceed_v from_o and_o nourish_v self-love_n pride_n etc._n etc._n and_o partly_o out_o of_o want_n of_o courage_n and_o diligence_n to_o pursue_v constant_o the_o way_n that_o they_o know_v lead_v thereto_o 12._o upon_o these_o ground_n mystic_a author_n do_v teach_v that_o though_o it_o be_v a_o very_a great_a advantage_n to_o a_o soul_n to_o tread_v in_o these_o internal_a way_n from_o her_o youth_n before_o she_o be_v darken_v and_o make_v sick_a with_o vicious_a habit_n the_o combat_v against_o which_o will_v cause_v great_a difficulty_n pain_n and_o tediousness_n to_o she_o yet_o she_o will_v hardly_o arrive_v unto_o the_o foresay_a active_a union_n and_o experimental_a perception_n of_o god_n presence_n in_o she_o till_o almost_o a_o decline_a age_n by_o reason_n that_o though_o her_o natural_a ill_a inclination_n may_v be_v mortify_v in_o a_o reasonable_a perfection_n before_o that_o time_n yet_o till_o such_o age_n there_o will_v remain_v too_o much_o vigour_n in_o corporal_a nature_n and_o a_o unstableness_n in_o the_o inward_a sense_n which_o will_v hinder_v that_o quietness_n and_o composednes_n of_o mind_n necessary_a to_o such_o a_o union_n whereas_o some_o person_n of_o a_o well_o dispose_v temper_n &_o virtuous_a education_n have_v in_o a_o few_o year_n arrive_v rhereunto_o though_o they_o do_v not_o begin_v a_o internal_a course_n till_o their_o ripe_a age_n but_o yet_o supply_v that_o delay_n by_o a_o heroical_a resolution_n and_o vigorous_a pursuit_n of_o the_o practice_n proper_a thereunto_o but_o as_o for_o those_o that_o have_v be_v vicious_o breed_v there_o will_v be_v necessary_a a_o wonderful_a measure_n of_o grace_n and_o very_o extraordinary_a mortification_n before_o such_o soul_n can_v be_v fit_v thereunto_o 13._o now_o what_o have_v be_v say_v concern_v the_o length_n of_o the_o way_n and_o the_o multiplicity_n of_o condition_n requisite_a to_o the_o attain_v to_o the_o end_n of_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v with_o relation_n to_o the_o ordinary_a course_n of_o god_n providence_n but_o god_n who_o be_v the_o free_a master_n and_o disposer_n of_o his_o own_o grace_n may_v bestow_v they_o upon_o who_o &_o when_o he_o please_v either_o miraculous_o increase_a his_o grace_n in_o some_o soul_n or_o confer_v his_o supernatural_a favour_n before_o the_o time_n that_o they_o be_v ripe_a for_o they_o as_o he_o do_v to_o s._n catharina_n of_o sienna_n and_o some_o other_o who_o in_o their_o young_a year_n have_v be_v favour_v with_o a_o passive_a union_n mystic_a author_n likewise_o except_v from_o the_o ordinary_a course_n the_o case_n where_o god_n upon_o the_o death_n of_o well_o will_v and_o well_o dispose_v soul_n happen_v bofore_o perfection_n atteind_v supply_v after_o some_o extraordinary_a manner_n what_o be_v want_v and_o effect_n that_o in_o a_o moment_n uhvich_n will_v otherwise_o have_v require_v a_o long_a space_n of_o time_n and_o this_o say_v they_o god_n frequent_o do_v in_o regard_n of_o the_o serious_a &_o fervent_a will_n that_o he_o see_v in_o such_o soul_n which_o be_v resolve_v to_o prosecute_v the_o way_n of_o his_o love_n for_o all_o their_o life_n though_o they_o shall_v have_v last_v never_o so_o long_o 14._o but_o be_v the_o way_n to_o perfection_n never_o so_o long_o the_o design_n itself_o be_v so_o noble_a and_o the_o end_n so_o divine_a that_o a_o soul_n can_v not_o begin_v to_o aspire_v unto_o it_o too_o soon_o nor_o take_v too_o much_o pain_n to_o procure_v it_o yea_o the_o very_a desire_n and_o serious_a pursuance_n of_o so_o heavenly_a a_o design_n bring_v so_o great_a blessing_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o put_v she_o in_o so_o secure_a a_o way_n of_o salvation_n though_o she_o shall_v never_o perfect_o attain_v unto_o it_o in_o this_o life_n that_o there_o be_v none_o so_o old_a nor_o so_o over_o grow_v with_o ill_a habit_n but_o aught_o to_o attempt_v &_o with_o perseverance_n pursue_v it_o be_v assure_v that_o at_o least_o after_o death_n he_o shall_v for_o his_o good_a desire_n and_o endeavour_n be_v reward_v with_o the_o crown_n due_a to_o contemplative_n for_o it_o be_v enough_o for_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o the_o way_n and_o to_o correspond_v to_o such_o enablement_n as_o she_o have_v receive_v and_o then_o in_o what_o degree_n of_o spirit_n soever_o she_o die_v she_o die_v according_a to_o the_o will_n &_o ordination_n of_o god_n to_o who_o she_o must_v be_v resign_v and_o consequent_o she_o will_v be_v very_o happy_a whereas_o if_o out_o of_o despair_n of_o attain_v to_o perfection_n she_o shall_v rest_v and_o do_v as_o it_o be_v nothing_o content_v herself_o with_o outward_a ceremonious_a observance_n she_o will_v be_v account_v before_o god_n as_o have_v be_v want_v to_o perform_v that_o whereto_o her_o profession_n oblige_v she_o though_o the_o truth_n be_v the_o soul_n be_v a_o pure_a spirit_n consist_v of_o mere_a activity_n can_v cease_v do_v and_o desire_v some_o thing_n so_o that_o if_o her_o desire_n &_o operation_n be_v not_o direct_v to_o the_o right_a end_n they_o will_v go_v a_o wrong_a way_n and_o if_o a_o soul_n do_v not_o continual_o strive_v to_o get_v out_o of_o nature_n she_o will_v plunge_v herself_o deep_o &_o deep_a into_o it_o 15._o the_o second_o motive_n to_o induce_v a_o soul_n to_o arm_v herself_o with_o a_o great_a courage_n and_o strong_a resolution_n in_o her_o tendance_n to_o perfection_n be_v because_o as_o the_o wise_a man_n say_v he_o that_o set_v himself_o to_o serve_v our_o lord_n especial_o in_o so_o high_a and_o divine_a a_o employment_n as_o contemplation_n must_v prepare_v his_o soul_n for_o tentation_n great_a and_o more_o unusual_a then_o former_o he_o have_v experience_n of_o the_o which_o tentation_n will_v come_v from_o all_o coast_n both_o from_o without_o and_o with_o in_o 16._o for_o a_o internal_a life_n be_v not_o only_o a_o life_n hide_v from_o the_o world_n but_o likewise_o direct_o contrary_a to_o the_o way_n of_o carnal_a rerson_n yea_o even_o different_a from_o the_o common_a notion_n of_o virtue_n and_o piety_n which_o ordinary_a christian_n yea_o too_o many_o even_o in_o religion_n have_v also_o who_o approve_v only_o of_o action_n and_o way_n which_o outward_o make_v a_o fair_a show_v as_o solemn_a performance_n of_o divine_a office_n external_a formal_a regularity_n mortification_n etc._n etc._n hence_o it_o be_v that_o very_o sharp_a persecution_n have_v almost_o always_o attend_v those_o who_o god_n have_v call_v to_o revive_v the_o true_a spirit_n of_o religion_n too_o much_o general_o decay_v and_o in_o many_o religious_a community_n utter_o unknowen_a by_o teach_v soul_n not_o to_o neglect_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_a to_o be_v very_o careful_a in_o a_o exact_a performance_n and_o just_a esteem_n of_o such_o duty_n but_o yet_o to_o place_v perfection_n in_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o esteem_v all_o other_o observance_n no_o further_o then_o as_o they_o serve_v to_o advance_v and_o increase_v perfection_n in_o spirit_n since_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o if_o in_o and_o for_o themselves_o alone_o and_o with_o out_o any_o interior_a direction_n for_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o soul_n they_o be_v esteem_v &_o perform_v as_o part_n of_o real_a perfection_n and_o not_o chief_o as_o help_v of_o internal_a devotion_n and_o purity_n they_o will_v rather_o become_v hindrance_n to_o contemplation_n nourish_v pride_n contempt_n of_o other_o etc._n etc._n and_o be_v the_o ruin_n of_o true_a charity_n example_n of_o such_o persecution_n be_v obvious_a in_o story_n witness_v the_o suffering_n of_o thaulerus_n suso_n s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n etc._n etc._n 17._o again_o in_o the_o world_n the_o life_n of_o those_o that_o god_n have_v call_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n be_v so_o different_a from_o and_o unlike_a to_o other_o though_o ordinary_a well_o mean_v christian_n by_o reason_n that_o they_o abstract_n themselves_o from_o secular_a business_n except_o such_o as_o necessary_o belong_v to_o their_o vocation_n likewife_n from_o worldly_a conversation_n correspondence_n and_o vain_o comply_v freindships_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o
the_o sight_n of_o they_o be_v unacceptable_a to_o their_o neighbour_n and_o acquaintance_n as_o if_o they_o do_v silent_o condemn_v their_o liberty_n for_o this_o reason_n they_o be_v apt_a to_o raise_v and_o disperse_v evil_a report_n of_o they_o calling_z they_o illuminat_n pretender_n to_o extraordinary_a visit_n and_o light_n person_n that_o walk_v in_o mirabilibus_fw-la super_fw-la se_fw-la &_o 6._o or_o at_o least_o to_o deride_v they_o as_o silly_a seduce_v melancholy_a spirit_n that_o follow_v unusual_a and_o dangerous_a way_n 18._o all_o these_o and_o many_o other_o the_o like_a persecution_n calumny_n and_o contempt_n a_o well_o dispose_v soul_n that_o pure_o seek_v god_n must_v expect_v and_o be_v arm_v against_o and_o know_v that_o they_o do_v not_o come_v by_o chance_n but_o by_o the_o most_o wise_a holy_a and_o merciful_a providence_n of_o god_n for_o her_o good_a to_o exercise_v her_o courage_n in_o the_o beginning_n and_o to_o give_v she_o a_o opportunity_n to_o testify_v her_o true_a esteem_n and_o love_n to_o god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n let_v she_o from_o hence_o not_o be_v affright_v but_o rather_o pursue_v internal_a way_n more_o vigorous_o as_o know_v that_o there_o can_v not_o be_v a_o better_a proof_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o they_o then_o that_o they_o be_v displease_v to_o carnal_a or_o at_o least_o ignorant_a man_n unexperienced_a in_o such_o divine_a way_n let_v she_o not_o with_o passion_n judge_v or_o condemn_v those_o that_o be_v contrary_a to_o she_o for_o many_o of_o they_o may_v have_v a_o good_a intention_n and_o zeal_n therein_o though_o a_o zeal_n not_o direct_v by_o knowledge_n if_o therefore_o she_o will_v attend_v to_o god_n follow_a his_o divine_a inspiration_n etc._n etc._n she_o will_v see_v that_o god_n will_v give_v her_o light_n and_o courage_n and_o much_o inward_a security_n in_o her_o way_n 19_o but_o her_o great_a and_o more_o frequent_a persecution_n will_v be_v from_o she_o own_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o vicious_a habit_n root_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o which_o will_v assault_v she_o many_o time_n with_o tentation_n and_o inward_a bitterness_n and_o agony_n sharp_a and_o strange_a than_o she_o do_v expect_v or_o can_v perhaps_o imagine_v and_o no_o wonder_n for_o her_o design_n and_o continual_a endeavour_n both_o in_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n be_v to_o raise_v herself_o out_o of_o and_o above_o nature_n to_o contradict_v nature_n in_o all_o its_o vain_a pleasure_n and_o interest_n she_o can_v expect_v no_o other_o but_o that_o nature_n will_v continual_o struggle_v against_o the_o spirit_n especial_o be_v inflame_v by_o the_o devil_n who_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o employ_v all_o his_o art_n all_o his_o malice_n and_o fury_n to_o disturb_v a_o design_n so_o utter_o destructive_a to_o his_o infernal_a kingdom_n establish_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o carnal_a man_n the_o well_o mind_a soul_n therefore_o must_v make_v a_o general_a strong_a resolution_n to_o bear_v all_o with_o as_o much_o quietness_n as_o may_v be_v to_o distrust_v herself_o entire_o to_o rely_v only_o upon_o god_n and_o to_o seek_v unto_o he_o by_o prayer_n and_o all_o will_v assure_o be_v well_o she_o will_v find_v that_o the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n whiâ—h_o at_o the_o first_o be_v burdensome_a will_n be_v bear_v with_o constancy_n become_v easy_a and_o delightful_a yea_o though_o she_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a to_o subdue_v the_o resistance_n of_o evil_a inclination_n in_o she_o yet_o as_o long_o as_o there_o remain_v in_o she_o a_o sincere_a endeavour_n after_o it_o no_o such_o ill_a inclination_n will_v hinder_v her_o happiness_n cap_n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o a_o 3._o motive_n to_o resolution_n be_v the_o danger_n of_o repidity_n of_o which_o the_o nature_n and_o root_n be_v discover_v §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o the_o misery_n of_o a_o tepid_v religious_a person_n that_o be_v ignorant_a of_o internal_a way_n §_o 6._o 7._o or_o of_o one_o that_o know_v they_o but_o neglect_v to_o pursue_v they_o §_o 8._o 9_o how_o pestilent_a such_o be_v in_o a_o community_n §_o 10._o on_o the_o otherside_n a_o undiscreete_a passionate_a fervour_n may_v be_v as_o dangerous_a as_o negligence_n 1._o a_o three_o yet_o more_o press_v motive_n to_o a_o courageous_a resolution_n of_o prosecute_a internal_a way_n once_o begin_v and_o a_o strong_a proof_n of_o the_o extreme_a necessity_n thereof_o be_v the_o consideration_n of_o the_o extreme_a danger_n and_o misery_n unexpressible_a of_o a_o negligent_a and_o tepid_a life_n whether_o in_o religion_n or_o in_o the_o world_n the_o which_o not_o only_o render_v perfection_n impossible_a to_o be_v attein_v but_o endanger_v the_o very_a root_n of_o essential_a sanctity_n and_o all_o pretention_n to_o eternal_a happiness_n as_o among_o other_o mystic_a writer_n harphius_n in_o his_o twelue_fw-mi mortification_n earnest_o demonstrate_v 2._o tepidity_n be_v a_o bitter_a poysonnous_a root_n fix_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o negligent_a christian_n who_o though_o out_o of_o a_o servile_a fear_n they_o abstain_v from_o a_o habitual_a practice_n of_o acknowledged_a mortal_a actual_a sin_n and_o therefore_o groundless_o enough_o think_v themselves_o secure_a from_o the_o danger_n of_o hell_n yet_o they_o perform_v their_o external_a necessary_a obligation_n to_o god_n and_o their_o brethren_n sleepy_o and_o heartles_o without_o any_o true_a affection_n content_v themselves_o with_o the_o thing_n however_o outward_o do_v yea_o perhaps_o know_v no_o perfection_n beyond_o this_o but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n remain_v full_a of_o self_n love_n inward_a pride_n sensual_a desire_n aversion_n from_o internal_a conversation_n with_o god_n etc._n etc._n and_o the_o ground_n and_o cause_n of_o this_o pernicious_a tepidity_n be_v want_n of_o affection_n and_o esteem_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o a_o voluntary_a affection_n to_o venial_a sin_n not_o as_o they_o be_v sin_n but_o as_o the_o object_n of_o they_o be_v casefull_a or_o delightful_a to_o nature_n join_v with_o a_o willfullnes_n not_o to_o avoid_v the_o occasion_n of_o they_o nor_o to_o do_v any_o more_o in_o god_n service_n than_o what_o themselves_o judge_v to_o be_v necessary_a for_o the_o escape_n of_o hell_n 3._o such_o person_n if_o they_o live_v in_o religion_n must_v needs_o pass_v very_o uncomfortable_a and_o discontent_a life_n have_v exclude_v themselves_o from_o the_o vain_a entertainment_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o world_n and_o yet_o retain_v a_o strong_a affection_n to_o they_o in_o their_o heart_n with_o a_o incapacity_n of_o enjoy_v they_o they_o must_v undergo_v all_o obligation_n austerity_n and_o cross_n incident_a to_o a_o religious_a state_n without_o comfort_n but_o only_o in_o have_v dispatch_v they_o with_o very_o little_a benefit_n to_o their_o soul_n and_o with_o extreme_a wearisomenes_n and_o unwillingnes_n now_o what_o a_o resemblance_n to_o hell_n have_v such_o a_o life_n where_o there_o be_v a_o impossibility_n free_o to_o enjoy_v what_o the_o soul_n principal_o desire_v and_o where_o she_o be_v force_v continual_o to_o do_v and_o suffer_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v extreme_o contrary_a to_o her_o inclination_n 4._o whereas_o if_o soul_n will_v courageous_o at_o once_o give_v themselves_o whole_o to_o god_n and_o with_o a_o discrete_a fervour_n combat_v against_o corrupt_a nature_n pursue_v their_o internal_a exercise_n they_o will_v find_v that_o all_o thing_n will_v cooperate_v not_o only_o to_o their_o eternal_a good_a but_o even_o to_o their_o present_a contentment_n and_o joy_n they_o will_v find_v pleasure_n even_o in_o their_o great_a mortification_n and_o cross_n by_o consider_v the_o love_n with_o which_o god_n send_v they_o and_o the_o great_a benefit_n that_o their_o spirit_n reap_v by_o they_o what_o contentment_n can_v be_v great_a to_o any_o soul_n then_o to_o become_v a_o true_a inward_a friend_n of_o god_n chain_v unto_o he_o with_o a_o love_n the_o like_a whereto_o never_o be_v between_o any_o mortal_a creature_n to_o know_v and_o even_o feel_v that_o she_o belong_v to_o god_n and_o that_o god_n be_v continual_o watchful_a over_o she_o and_o careful_a of_o her_o salvation_n none_o of_o which_o comfort_v tepid_v soul_n can_v hope_v to_o taste_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_n be_v not_o only_o continual_o torture_v with_o present_a discontent_n but_o much_o more_o with_o a_o fear_n and_o horror_n consider_v their_o doubtfullnes_n about_o their_o future_a state_n 5._o if_o such_o tepid_a soul_n be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o with_o out_o some_o fault_n of_o their_o own_o they_o scarce_o can_v be_v when_o they_o come_v to_o die_v it_o be_v not_o conceivable_a what_o apprehension_n and_o horror_n they_o will_v feel_v consider_v that_o a_o settle_a wilful_a affection_n to_o venial_a sin_n bring_v a_o soul_n to_o a_o imminent_a danger_n of_o a_o frequent_a incur_v actual_a mortal_a sin_n the_o which_o though_o they_o be_v not_o of_o the_o great_a kind_n
&_o have_v no_o other_o employment_n during_o their_o rigorous_a solitude_n &_o silence_n but_o to_o attend_v to_o their_o internal_a teacher_n &_o put_v in_o execution_n his_o inspiration_n in_o all_o their_o action_n both_o internal_a &_o external_a to_o this_o purpose_n say_v a_o holy_a hermit_n in_o cassian_n that_o as_o it_o be_v by_o god_n inspiration_n that_o we_o begin_v when_o we_o enter_v into_o religion_n so_o likewise_o magisterio_fw-la &_o illuminatione_fw-la dei_fw-la ad_fw-la perfectionem_fw-la pervenimus_fw-la by_o the_o discipline_n instruction_n &_o illumination_n of_o god_n we_o attain_v to_o perfection_n another_o say_v that_o a_o soul_n can_v do_v no_o good_a at_o all_o unless_o she_o be_v quotidianâ_fw-la domini_fw-la illuminatione_fw-la illustrata_fw-la enlighten_v by_o a_o daily_a illumination_n from_o god_n these_o be_v expression_n that_o our_o holy_a father_n himself_o use_v &_o it_o seem_v borrow_v they_o from_o the_o same_o author_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n it_o be_v that_o in_o his_o rule_n he_o content_v himself_o with_o ordain_v prescription_n for_o the_o exterior_a only_o because_o he_o know_v that_o the_o interiour_n can_v only_o be_v direct_v by_o god_n but_o withal_o his_o ordination_n be_v such_o as_o we_o may_v see_v his_o intention_n and_o only_a design_n be_v by_o they_o to_o dispose_v soul_n to_o be_v capable_a of_o observe_v &_o follow_a the_o inspiration_n &_o inward_a instruction_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n without_o which_o all_o exterior_a observance_n will_v never_o bring_v we_o to_o perfection_n such_o be_v very_o rigorous_a solitude_n &_o abstraction_n from_o all_o intercourse_n either_o with_o the_o business_n or_o news_n of_o the_o world_n almost_o continual_a silence_n but_o when_o we_o speak_v to_o god_n etc._n etc._n and_o withal_o in_o several_a place_n of_o his_o rule_n he_o signify_v by_o the_o way_n that_o the_o reformation_n of_o the_o spirit_n ought_v to_o be_v the_o principal_a aim_n of_o a_o religious_a soul_n so_o that_o in_o the_o conclusion_n of_o the_o rule_n have_v regard_n to_o the_o externall_n observance_n express_o command_v therein_o as_o a_o preparation_n to_o the_o perfection_n to_o be_v learn_v out_o of_o the_o live_v and_o conference_n of_o the_o father_n he_o profess_v with_o great_a humility_n but_o with_o great_a truth_n also_o that_o his_o intention_n thereby_o be_v that_o those_o which_o observe_v it_o be_v enable_v to_o declare_v in_o some_o sort_n honestatem_fw-la morum_fw-la aut_fw-la initium_fw-la conversationis_fw-la eos_fw-la habere_fw-la that_o they_o have_v attein_v to_o a_o laudable_a exterior_a carriage_n &_o the_o beginning_n of_o a_o holy_a religious_a conversation_n but_o say_v he_o whosoever_o shall_v tend_v to_o perfection_n sunt_fw-la doctrinae_fw-la sanctorum_fw-la patrum_fw-la as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v he_o must_v according_a to_o the_o teach_n of_o the_o holy_a father_n attend_v unto_o the_o divine_a master_n by_o exercise_v according_a to_o his_o instruction_n that_o pure_a sublime_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n which_o they_o practise_v &_o discover_v and_o suitable_a herto_o s._n francis_n likewise_o in_o his_o rule_n advise_v his_o disciple_n thus_o attendant_z fratres_fw-la quod_fw-la super_fw-la omne_fw-la desiderare_fw-la debent_fw-la habere_fw-la spiritum_fw-la domini_fw-la &_o sanctam_fw-la eius_fw-la operationem_fw-la that_o be_v the_o religious_a brethren_n must_v attentive_o mark_v that_o above_o all_o other_o thing_n they_o ought_v to_o desire_v to_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o our_o lord_n &_o his_o holy_a operation_n in_o their_o soul_n 7._o to_o conclude_v either_o it_o must_v be_v grant_v that_o perfection_n may_v be_v attein_v mere_o by_o avoid_v mortal_a sin_n &_o do_v such_o action_n of_o virtue_n as_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o all_o christian_n which_o to_o say_v be_v manifest_o foolish_a &_o false_a and_o likewise_o that_o action_n more_o indifferent_a &_o not_o so_o universal_o oblige_v such_o as_o be_v certain_a more_o profitable_a manner_n of_o prayer_n external_a religious_a observance_n refection_n conversation_n with_o our_o brethren_n etc._n etc._n can_v be_v render_v capable_a of_o a_o holy_a intention_n &_o of_o advance_v we_o in_o the_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v against_o experience_n and_o moreover_o that_o without_o internal_a grace_n actual_o operate_a which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o divine_a illumination_n &_o impulse_n these_o ordinary_a inferior_a action_n may_v be_v exalt_v to_o produce_v that_o effect_n which_o the_o great_a necessary_a virtue_n can_v not_o produce_v which_o to_o say_v be_v impiety_n or_o it_o must_v be_v grant_v that_o the_o teach_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n be_v the_o only_a principal_a necessary_a cause_n by_o who_o virtue_n we_o be_v inform_v &_o enable_v to_o improove_v &_o make_v use_n of_o these_o action_n for_o the_o attain_v of_o so_o sublime_a a_o end_n as_o perfection_n in_o contemplation_n be_v &_o without_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o be_v attein_v and_o indeed_o so_o impossible_a to_o be_v bring_v under_o external_a rule_n &_o so_o secret_a &_o undiscoverable_a be_v the_o internal_a disposition_n of_o soul_n &_o their_o operation_n that_o they_o can_v be_v clear_o perceive_v nor_o consequent_o order_v but_o by_o he_o to_o who_o alone_o our_o figmentum_fw-la our_o heart_n &_o all_o the_o secret_a inclination_n &_o motion_n of_o they_o be_v naked_a &_o transparent_a cap._n v._n §_o 1._o all_o internal_a liver_n oblige_v to_o attend_v to_o god_n inspiration_n §_o 2._o therefore_o the_o impediment_n to_o this_o duty_n be_v to_o be_v remove_v which_o be_v two_o first_o distract_n image_n which_o be_v expel_v by_o abstraction_n of_o life_n §_o 3._o the_o 2_o impediment_n be_v unruly_a passion_n which_o be_v calm_v by_o mortification_n &_o peace_n of_o mind_n §_o 4._o 5._o the_o end_n why_o a_o religious_a state_n especial_o of_o s._n benedict_v institution_n be_v undertake_v be_v the_o removal_n of_o these_o inpediment_n §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o a_o three_o more_o special_a impediment_n to_o wit_n want_v of_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n to_o follow_v god_n direction_n cause_v by_o voluntary_a burden_n &_o coustume_n assume_v several_a such_o be_v exemplify_v in_o 1._o the_o necessity_n of_o a_o divine_a internal_a teacher_n be_v establish_v there_o follow_v from_o thence_o a_o equal_a necessity_n for_o all_o those_o who_o profession_n oblige_v they_o to_o walk_v in_o those_o way_n towards_o the_o sublime_a end_n propose_v to_o attend_v unto_o &_o obey_v this_o only_a most_o necessary_a master_n and_o because_o each_o one_o have_v in_o his_o heart_n a_o false_a teacher_n that_o always_o urge_v we_o to_o hearken_v to_o his_o perverse_a teach_n &_o to_o neglect_v the_o divine_a teacher_n therefore_o the_o way_n to_o become_v a_o diligent_a &_o obedient_a disciple_n to_o god_n holy_a spirit_n will_v be_v 1._o to_o neglect_v contradict_v &_o as_o much_o as_o lie_v in_o we_o to_o silence_v the_o teach_n &_o suggestion_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n 2._o and_o second_o to_o be_v attentive_a to_o the_o voice_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o our_o soul_n 2._o for_o the_o first_o there_o be_v two_o general_a impediment_n that_o nature_n lay_v in_o our_o way_n to_o hinder_v we_o from_o attend_v to_o god_n the_o first_o be_v distract_n image_n the_o second_o unquiet_a passion_n now_o the_o remedy_n against_o the_o former_a be_v abstraction_n of_o life_n a_o not_o engage_v ourselves_o in_o business_n that_o belong_v not_o unto_o we_o the_o mortify_n of_o the_o curiosity_n of_o know_v or_o hear_v strange_a or_o new_a thing_n not_o pertinent_a to_o our_o profession_n the_o temper_n of_o our_o tongue_n from_o vain_a unproffitable_a conversation_n the_o reduce_v our_o thought_n as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v from_o multiplicity_n to_o unity_n by_o fix_v they_o continual_o on_o the_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v that_o unum_fw-la necessarium_fw-la &c_n &c_n 3._o again_o the_o only_a proper_a remedy_n against_o the_o other_o impediment_n to_o wit_n unquiet_a passion_n be_v first_o mortification_n of_o all_o inordinate_a affection_n to_o creature_n of_o all_o vain_a encombr_v freindships_n all_o factious_a partiality_n all_o thoughtful_a provision_n for_o the_o content_v of_o our_o sensual_a desire_n but_o especial_o of_o that_o most_o dangerous_a because_o most_o in_o time_n &_o spiritual_a thirst_n of_o knowledge_n unnecessary_a &_o of_o all_o ambition_n to_o get_v victory_n or_o glory_n by_o dispute_v writing_n &c_n &c_n as_o likewise_o of_o all_o anger_n impatience_n melancholy_a fear_n scrupulosity_n &c_n &c_n and_o second_o a_o studious_a care_n to_o preserve_v our_o soul_n in_o all_o the_o peace_n tranquillity_n &_o cheerfullnes_n possible_a not_o suffer_v any_o passion_n to_o be_v raise_v in_o our_o mind_n during_o our_o imperfect_a state_n no_o not_o although_o they_o shall_v be_v direct_v upon_o good_a &_o holy_a object_n because_o they_o will_v obscure_v &_o disorder_v our_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v avoid_v all_o violence_n &_o impetuous_a
hastiness_n in_o perform_v our_o best_a &_o most_o necessary_a duty_n the_o which_o be_v discharge_v most_o efficacious_o &_o pure_o when_o they_o be_v do_v with_o the_o great_a stillnes_n calmness_n clearness_n of_o mind_n &_o resignation_n it_o be_v sufficient_a in_o this_o place_n only_o to_o touch_v pass_o upon_o these_o impediment_n because_o in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n we_o shall_v have_v occasion_n to_o treat_v more_o large_o &_o purposely_o of_o they_o 4._o now_o to_o what_o end_n do_v we_o come_v into_o religion_n but_o only_o to_o avoid_v all_o these_o impediment_n in_o the_o world_n which_o withdraw_v we_o from_o attend_v to_o god_n &_o follow_v his_o divine_a guidance_n in_o this_o very_a point_n lie_v the_o difference_n between_o a_o secular_a &_o a_o religious_a state_n that_o a_o secular_a person_n secular_o mind_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o noise_n tumult_n &_o unavoidable_a distra&ions_n distra&ions_n distra&ions_n sollicitude_n &_o tentation_n which_o be_v in_o the_o world_n can_v without_o much_o ado_n find_v leisure_n to_o attend_v unto_o god_n &_o the_o gain_n of_o his_o love_n even_o for_o a_o few_o minute_n every_o day_n or_o little_a often_o than_o the_o law_n of_o the_o church_n necessary_o oblige_v he_o and_o all_o the_o direction_n that_o he_o be_v capable_a of_o in_o god_n service_n must_v come_v from_o without_o for_o by_o reason_n that_o his_o soul_n be_v so_o fill_v with_o image_n vain_a or_o sinful_a &_o so_o agitate_a with_o impetuous_a affection_n &_o design_n he_o can_v recollect_v himself_o to_o hear_v god_n speak_v in_o he_o whereas_o a_o religious_a person_n profess_v his_o only_a business_n to_o be_v attend_v to_o god_n internal_a voice_n for_o which_o purpose_n he_o renounce_v all_o these_o impediment_n &_o distraction_n 5._o and_o sure_o in_o a_o special_a manner_n the_o disciple_n of_o s._n benedict_n if_o they_o will_v cast_v a_o serious_a eye_n upon_o the_o frame_n of_o their_o rule_n they_o will_v find_v that_o as_o it_o be_v very_o moderate_a &_o prudent_o condescend_v in_o all_o matter_n of_o outward_a corporal_a austerity_n afflict_v to_o nature_n but_o not_o immediate_o helpful_a to_o the_o spirit_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v very_o rigorous_a in_o the_o exact_v of_o silence_n solitude_n a_o renounce_v all_o proprietary_a solicitude_n for_o corporal_a necessity_n &_o all_o other_o mortification_n which_o will_v hinder_v the_o dissipate_v of_o our_o spirit_n &_o thought_n &_o indispose_v the_o soul_n to_o recollection_n &_o attention_n to_o god_n but_o special_o prayer_n which_o he_o call_v opus_fw-la dei_fw-la to_o which_o all_o other_o work_n &_o observance_n be_v to_o give_v place_n be_v most_o serious_o &_o incessant_o enjoin_v by_o the_o practice_n whereof_o we_o do_v above_o all_o other_o exercise_n transcend_v grosser_n &_o sensible_a image_n in_o the_o understanding_n &_o subdue_v unruly_a passion_n in_o the_o heart_n so_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o our_o holy_a father_n principal_a care_n in_o all_o the_o observance_n enjoin_v by_o he_o be_v to_o free_v his_o disciple_n from_o these_o two_o general_a &_o most_o powerful_a hindrance_n to_o introversion_n &_o a_o continual_a attention_n to_o &_o conversation_n which_o god_n the_o which_o may_v most_o proper_o be_v call_v the_o spirit_n of_o s._n benedict_v rule_n 6._o there_o be_v moreover_o one_o special_a impediment_n to_o the_o observe_v &_o obey_v of_o divine_a inspiration_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v omit_v &_o the_o rather_o because_o it_o be_v less_o take_v notice_n of_o in_o ordinary_a spiritual_a writer_n this_o impediment_n consist_v in_o this_o that_o many_o soul_n do_v indiscreet_o prejudice_n yea_o oft_o take_v away_o quite_o that_o indifference_n &_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o all_o that_o will_v serious_o follow_v the_o divine_a guidance_n in_o all_o the_o way_n that_o they_o then_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o for_o it_o be_v foolish_a to_o prescribe_v unto_o god_n the_o way_n in_o which_o we_o will_v have_v he_o to_o lead_v we_o this_o be_v to_o oblige_v god_n to_o follow_v our_o way_n &_o to_o do_v our_o will_n &_o not_o we_o to_o perform_v he_o and_o this_o be_v do_v by_o those_o who_o obstinate_o adhere_v to_o preconceiu_n d_o opinion_n &_o fore-practised_n coustume_n whatsoever_o they_o be_v for_o though_o such_o coustume_n in_o themselves_o and_o to_o other_o soul_n may_v be_v never_o so_o good_a &_o profitable_a yea_o tho_o former_o even_o to_o those_o person_n themselves_o they_o have_v be_v never_o so_o proper_a &_o beneficial_a yet_o this_o be_v only_o while_o they_o be_v in_o such_o a_o state_n &_o degree_n of_o spirituality_n the_o which_o state_n alter_v as_o in_o progress_n it_o needs_o must_v then_o that_o which_o be_v former_o proper_a &_o conformable_a to_o the_o divine_a will_n &_o inspiration_n will_v become_v improper_a inconvenient_a &_o contrary_a to_o the_o present_a internal_a guidance_n of_o god_n 7._o this_o impediment_n must_v necessary_o be_v remove_v &_o devout_a soul_n must_v continual_o keep_v themselves_o in_o a_o free_a indifferency_n &_o suppleness_n of_o spirit_n for_o otherwise_o they_o will_v become_v in_o many_o case_n &_o circumstance_n indispose_v to_o believe_v &_o incapable_a to_o execute_v that_o which_o god_n holy_a spirit_n shall_v dictate_v unto_o they_o yea_o they_o will_v oft_o contristate_v &_o endanger_v to_o extinguish_v the_o say_a spirit_n in_o they_o by_o a_o obstinate_a do_v of_o the_o contrary_a to_o what_o it_o move_v unto_o 8._o the_o reasonableness_n &_o necessity_n of_o this_o advice_n may_v be_v show_v by_o this_o example_n it_o may_v have_v be_v good_a &_o profitable_a for_o a_o soul_n when_o she_o enter_v into_o a_o internal_a life_n to_o appoint_v unto_o herself_o certain_a voluntary_a devotion_n &_o vocal_a prayer_n &c_n &c_n or_o afterward_o to_o select_v certain_a peculiar_a subject_n of_o meditation_n as_o the_o quatuor_fw-la novissima_fw-la the_o mystery_n of_o the_o passion_n &c_n &c_n or_o to_o prescribe_v unto_o herself_o certain_a time_n for_o some_o good_a external_a or_o internal_a practice_n or_o to_o make_v frequent_a examination_n of_o conscience_n confession_n &c_n &c_n all_o these_o thing_n be_v good_a whilst_o the_o soul_n find_v profit_n by_o they_o &_o so_o long_o they_o be_v to_o be_v continue_v but_o if_o god_n shall_v call_v she_o to_o a_o high_a exercise_n &_o to_o a_o more_o pure_a efficacious_a prayer_n so_o that_o she_o begin_v to_o loose_v all_o gust_n in_o her_o former_a exercise_n the_o which_o do_v not_o only_o abridge_v she_o of_o the_o time_n necessary_a for_o she_o more_o perfect_a recollection_n but_o likewise_o dull_a the_o spirit_n &_o indispose_v it_o for_o such_o prayer_n &_o other_o more_o beneficial_a practice_n to_o which_o she_o be_v by_o a_o new_o clear_a divine_a light_n direct_v or_o invite_v &_o by_o divine_a grace_n enable_v in_o this_o case_n pertinacious_o to_o adhere_v to_o former_a coustume_n because_o she_o find_v they_o commend_v in_o book_n &c_n &c_n or_o because_o she_o do_v former_o reap_v profit_n by_o they_o this_o be_v to_o entangle_v fetter_v &_o captivate_v the_o spirit_n to_o renounce_v the_o divine_a guidance_n &_o to_o obstruct_v all_o way_n of_o advamcement_n in_o the_o path_n of_o contemplation_n the_o soul_n therefore_o in_o such_o or_o the_o like_a case_n must_v necessary_o use_v some_o violence_n upon_o herself_o to_o recover_v a_o true_a &_o most_o needful_a indifferency_n &_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n that_o so_o she_o may_v free_o follow_v god_n whithersoever_o he_o shall_v by_o his_o inspiration_n invite_v she_o be_v assure_v that_o she_o shall_v never_o by_o he_o be_v persuade_v or_o tempt_v to_o do_v any_o thing_n contrary_a or_o prejudicial_a to_o her_o duty_n obedience_n to_o lawful_a authority_n or_o any_o other_o necessary_a obligation_n 9_o this_o instruction_n reach_v very_o far_o yea_o so_o far_o that_o even_o learned_a man_n yea_o some_o that_o pass_v for_o spiritual_a if_o they_o be_v unexperienced_a in_o the_o true_a internal_a way_n of_o god_n spirit_n lead_v to_o contemplation_n will_v perhaps_o mislike_v the_o freedom_n which_o in_o many_o case_n must_v &_o have_v be_v allow_v by_o the_o best_a &_o most_o sublime_a mystic_a author_n to_o soul_n of_o some_o peculiar_a disposition_n &_o in_o certain_a circumstance_n and_o as_o for_o unlearned_a person_n they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n almost_o to_o be_v scandalize_v 10._o the_o special_a point_n therefore_o by_o which_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n be_v in_o many_o soul_n much_o abridge_v to_o their_o great_a hindrance_n be_v these_o which_o follow_v viz._n 1._o confession_n of_o certain_a venial_a sin_n 2._o coustumary_a solicitous_a examination_n of_o conscience_n 3._o in_o compliance_n with_o coustume_n to_o confess_v both_o often_o &_o likewise_o such_o imperfection_n as_o it_o be_v better_a for_o the_o soul_n not_o to_o mention_v
a_o religious_a person_n be_v to_o raise_v a_o stock_n for_o his_o whole_a future_a life_n so_o that_o if_o a_o novice-ship_n be_v negligent_o &_o unprovident_o spend_v he_o will_v scarce_o ever_o have_v the_o like_a opportunity_n to_o promote_v his_o spiritual_a good_n for_o after_o his_o profession_n he_o will_v beside_o liberty_n have_v many_o more_o distraction_n more_o freedom_n of_o conversation_n and_o more_o intercourse_n with_o the_o news_n &_o affair_n abroad_o beside_o he_o will_v not_o utter_o be_v out_o of_o danger_n of_o some_o office_n &_o employment_n for_o the_o discharge_n of_o which_o some_o perhaps_o will_v suppose_v he_o already_o fit_a &_o prepare_v in_o spirit_n 6._o at_o the_o go_v out_o of_o the_o novice-ship_n the_o person_n be_v to_o be_v very_o careful_a with_o who_o he_o converse_v so_o as_o to_o become_v a_o inward_a acquaintance_n lest_o be_v so_o tender_a as_o he_o be_v yet_o he_o happen_v quick_o to_o be_v corrupt_v with_o the_o society_n of_o negligent_a tepid_a companion_n for_o want_v of_o this_o care_n too_o oft_o it_o happen_v that_o all_o the_o good_a get_v in_o a_o novice-ship_n be_v clean_o lose_v in_o a_o short_a time_n since_o usual_o thing_n be_v no_o other_o way_n preserve_v but_o by_o the_o same_o mean_n that_o they_o be_v first_o get_v therefore_o since_o it_o be_v by_o prayer_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n that_o a_o novice_n procure_v all_o the_o little_a proportion_n of_o divine_a love_n that_o he_o be_v possess_v of_o he_o must_v expect_v that_o it_o will_v no_o other_o way_n be_v preserve_v for_o this_o reason_n it_o be_v very_o requisite_a that_o the_o superior_a shall_v appoint_v such_o a_o one_o his_o companion_n 7._o a_o soul_n must_v consider_v that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o little_a diligence_n nor_o yet_o the_o space_n of_o a_o year_n or_o two_o that_o will_v ordinary_o speak_v suffice_v to_o get_v a_o habit_n and_o stability_n in_o mortification_n and_o prayer_n and_o therefore_o a_o young_a beginner_n ought_v to_o imprint_v deep_o in_o his_o heart_n this_o most_o important_a truth_n and_o advice_n that_o his_o duty_n be_v never_o to_o abate_v or_o slacken_v but_o rather_o continual_o to_o increase_v in_o firmness_n of_o mind_n and_o resolution_n to_o proceed_v courageous_o during_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o his_o follow_a life_n in_o the_o internal_a exercise_n of_o spirit_n for_o he_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o his_o novice-ship_n be_v once_o end_v he_o must_v never_o expect_v such_o advantage_n thereto_o afterward_o such_o stillnes_n such_o want_n of_o interruption_n and_o tentation_n such_o clear_a light_n and_o such_o calmness_n of_o passion_n as_o he_o enjoy_v before_o therefore_o least_o by_o a_o change_n of_o his_o state_n from_o a_o rigorous_a solitude_n and_o silence_n to_o ordinary_a conversing_n and_o perhaps_o employment_n or_o however_n study_v he_o shall_v come_v to_o endanger_v a_o decay_n in_o spirit_n and_o so_o be_v miserable_o reduce_v to_o his_o first_o natural_a state_n or_o worse_o for_o indeed_o worse_o it_o will_v be_v if_o such_o a_o decay_n happen_v let_v he_o be_v very_o vigilant_a and_o industrious_a to_o avoid_v all_o thing_n that_o may_v hinder_v he_o from_o prosecute_a internal_a prayer_n and_o let_v he_o be_v careful_a to_o continue_v according_a to_o the_o utmost_a of_o his_o ability_n to_o use_v all_o abstraction_n possible_a as_o if_o he_o be_v still_o in_o his_o novice-ship_n 8._o indeed_o superior_n ought_v to_o be_v very_o careful_a not_o to_o put_v their_o young_a religious_a into_o distractive_a employment_n or_o study_n either_o soon_o or_o more_o than_o can_v well_o stand_v with_o their_o spirit_n or_o before_o they_o be_v reasonable_o well_o ground_v in_o prayer_n for_o how_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o a_o imperfect_a beginner_n have_v such_o hindrance_n to_o make_v progress_n in_o spirit_n whereas_o if_o a_o good_a foundation_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n be_v once_o lay_v such_o a_o soul_n by_o be_v apply_v to_o his_o study_n or_o externall_n office_n will_v suffer_v no_o decay_n yea_o moreover_o he_o will_v probable_o profit_n in_o study_n above_o the_o proportion_n of_o his_o natural_a ability_n by_o reason_n that_o passion_n which_o much_o distract_v and_o darken_v even_o the_o natural_a understanding_n will_v be_v much_o abate_v by_o prayer_n and_o moreover_o he_o will_v undertake_v his_o study_n as_o a_o duty_n and_o matter_n of_o conscience_n which_o will_v increase_v his_o attention_n and_o diligence_n yet_o perhaps_o by_o reason_n of_o his_o abstinence_n and_o exercise_n in_o spirit_n his_o bodily_a strength_n will_v not_o be_v vigorous_a enough_o to_o enable_v he_o to_o support_v very_o much_o study_v and_o if_o it_o shall_v prove_v so_o the_o loss_n be_v not_o great_a since_o the_o divine_a love_n will_v sufficient_o recompense_v all_o other_o want_v so_o it_o fare_v with_o our_o holy_a father_n who_o as_o s._n gregory_n say_v be_v sapienter_fw-la indoctus_fw-la his_o wisdom_n consist_v in_o despise_v all_o learning_n which_o be_v not_o helpful_a or_o not_o necessary_a to_o his_o advancement_n in_o the_o divine_a love_n which_o alone_o be_v the_o true_a wisdom_n and_o learning_n 9_o true_o so_o great_a harm_n come_v to_o young_a religious_a after_o a_o novice-ship_n well_o spend_v by_o be_v put_v immediate_o to_o school_n &_o for_o that_o purpose_n dispense_v with_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n about_o their_o monastical_a duty_n of_o prayer_n abstraction_n silence_v &c_n &c_n that_o it_o be_v very_o good_a and_o fit_a when_o person_n of_o tender_a age_n come_v to_o demand_v the_o habit_n to_o put_v they_o of_o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o inform_v they_o well_o about_o prayer_n and_o to_o endeavour_v to_o persuade_v they_o that_o before_o they_o undertake_v a_o religious_a state_n they_o shall_v dispatch_v their_o course_n of_o philosophy_n and_o divinity_n and_o during_o such_o a_o course_n to_o use_v as_o much_o abstraction_n and_o recollection_n as_o well_o they_o can_v for_o which_o they_o will_v then_o find_v more_o time_n than_o if_o they_o have_v be_v religious_a because_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v interrupt_v by_o the_o choir_n &_o other_o regular_a observance_n so_o that_o if_o study_v be_v then_o a_o hindrance_n to_o prayer_n how_o much_o more_o will_v they_o be_v so_o in_o case_n they_o have_v be_v religious_a have_v do_v all_o this_o then_o in_o god_n name_n let_v they_o demand_v the_o habit._n by_o this_o mean_n good_a soul_n will_v not_o be_v interrupt_v in_o their_o religious_a course_n nor_o put_v in_o danger_n never_o again_o to_o recover_v the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n and_o if_o follow_a such_o direction_n they_o shall_v come_v to_o die_v before_o the_o time_n of_o take_v the_o habit_n they_o may_v assure_v themselves_o that_o in_o god_n account_n they_o shall_v be_v esteem_v as_o religious_a soul_n whole_o consecrate_v unto_o he_o chap._n x._o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o obligation_n of_o english_a benedictius_n to_o the_o mission_n the_o sublime_a perfection_n of_o that_o employment_n §_o 3._o 4._o the_o care_n of_o it_o belong_v only_o to_o religious_a superior_n and_o not_o at_o all_o to_o particular_a religious_a §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o 11._o great_a danger_n of_o seek_v that_o employment_n and_o false_a pretence_n to_o obtain_v it_o etc._n etc._n §_o 12._o how_o the_o say_a charge_n be_v to_o be_v perform_v 1._o it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o to_o adjoine_v to_o this_o section_n concern_v a_o religious_a state_n certain_a consideration_n &_o advice_n touch_v a_o subject_n which_o though_o it_o pertain_v not_o to_o religious_a person_n in_o general_a yet_o be_v annex_v to_o our_o profession_n in_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o s._n benedict_v order_n and_o that_o be_v the_o apostolical_a mission_n into_o england_n the_o which_o all_o that_o profess_v do_v by_o a_o particular_a vow_n oblige_v themselves_o to_o undertake_v whensoever_o they_o shall_v be_v command_v by_o superior_n 2._o a_o employment_n this_o be_v of_o high_a importance_n and_o most_o sublime_a perfection_n if_o due_o undertake_v and_o administer_v but_o the_o care_n thereof_o only_o belong_v to_o superior_n and_o indeed_o it_o be_v worthy_a both_o of_o their_o prudence_n and_o zeal_n by_o a_o right_a manage_n whereof_o they_o may_v procure_v great_a glory_n to_o god_n and_o good_a to_o soul_n miserable_o mislead_v by_o infinite_a &_o most_o pernicious_a error_n 3._o but_o as_o for_o particular_a religious_a they_o be_v mere_o to_o be_v passive_a in_o the_o business_n they_o be_v to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o undergo_n of_o all_o the_o pain_n incommodity_n and_o danger_n of_o it_o whensoever_o it_o shall_v be_v impose_v on_o they_o but_o this_o be_v only_o a_o accessary_a obligation_n and_o capacity_n they_o be_v not_o to_o suppose_v that_o when_o god_n give_v they_o a_o vocation_n to_o a_o religious_a life_n that_o this_o do_v make_v
of_o confession_n although_o the_o correct_a &_o abate_v of_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o daily_a care_n 3._o i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o explain_v my_o meaning_n more_o full_o in_o this_o matter_n because_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o whole_a follow_a discourse_n we_o must_v know_v then_o that_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o christian_a much_o more_o of_o a_o soul_n that_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n be_v to_o love_v nothing_o at_o all_o but_o god_n or_o in_o order_n to_o he_o that_o be_v as_o a_o mean_a &_o instrument_n to_o beget_v &_o increase_v his_o divine_a love_n in_o our_o soul_n all_o adhesion_n to_o creature_n by_o affection_n whether_o such_o affection_n be_v great_a or_o small_a be_v according_o sinful_a more_o or_o less_o so_o that_o if_o be_v deprive_v of_o any_o thing_n or_o person_n whatsoever_o or_o be_v pain_v by_o any_o thing_n we_o find_v a_o trouble_n &_o sorrow_v in_o our_o mind_n for_o the_o loss_n or_o suffer_v of_o the_o thing_n itself_o such_o trouble_n in_o what_o degree_n soever_o argue_v that_o our_o affection_n be_v sinful_a not_o only_o because_o the_o affection_n be_v excessive_a but_o because_o it_o be_v a_o affection_n the_o object_n whereof_o be_v not_o god_n 4._o but_o yet_o withal_o this_o affection_n which_o i_o say_v be_v unlawful_a be_v not_o simple_o such_o a_o one_o as_o reside_v &_o be_v confine_v to_o sensitive_a nature_n for_o that_o be_v impossible_a to_o be_v root_v out_o neither_o be_v there_o any_o fault_n at_o all_o in_o it_o consider_v as_o such_o for_o to_o adam_n in_o the_o state_n of_o innocency_n yea_o even_o to_o our_o lord_n himself_o many_o object_n be_v please_v &_o delightful_a to_o sense_n his_o fight_n &_o taste_n take_v contentment_n in_o pleasurable_a object_n &_o there_o be_v in_o nature_n a_o aversion_n from_o pain_n &_o a_o earnest_a desire_n to_o prolong_v natural_a life_n &_o in_o all_o this_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o imperfection_n the_o affection_n to_o creature_n therefore_o which_o we_o affirm_v to_o be_v sinful_a be_v such_o as_o be_v seat_v in_o the_o superior_a soul_n or_o rational_a will_n by_o which_o the_o mind_n &_o will_n consider_v &_o adhere_v unto_o creature_n &_o knowing_o &_o willing_o pursue_v the_o attain_n &_o enjoy_v of_o they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v the_o good_a not_o of_o sense_n only_o for_o so_o they_o be_v but_o of_o the_o person_n the_o which_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o for_o the_o only_a good_a of_o a_o intellectual_a nature_n be_v god_n who_o be_v only_o exalt_v above_o it_o whereas_o all_o other_o creature_n be_v but_o equal_a or_o inferior_a to_o it_o to_o the_o superior_a will_n therefore_o all_o thing_n but_o god_n must_v be_v indifferent_a as_o in_o &_o for_o themselves_o &_o only_o to_o be_v love_v as_o they_o be_v serviceable_a to_o the_o spirit_n so_o that_o if_o thing_n which_o be_v unpleasant_a yea_o destructive_a to_o inferior_a nature_n do_v yet_o advance_v the_o spirit_n in_o her_o tendance_n to_o god_n or_o if_o by_o the_o will_n &_o providence_n of_o god_n they_o be_v present_v to_o she_o to_o suffer_v she_o must_v with_o all_o indifference_n &_o resignation_n accept_v of_o they_o though_o sensitive_a nature_n do_v never_o so_o much_o struggle_v &_o contradict_v 5._o a_o most_o perfect_a example_n hereof_o be_v give_v by_o our_o saviour_n the_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o the_o utmost_a of_o our_o capacity_n &_o enablement_n to_o imitate_v though_o sensitive_a nature_n in_o he_o take_v contentment_n in_o life_n &_o in_o the_o action_n &_o function_n thereof_o &_o above_o all_o thing_n do_v abhor_v a_o dissolution_n by_o death_n especial_o such_o a_o death_n accompany_v with_o such_o inexpressible_a torment_n &_o shame_n and_o though_o for_o our_o instruction_n he_o voluntary_o give_v way_n to_o inferior_a nature_n to_o express_v such_o her_o innocent_a inclinanation_n &_o aversion_n yet_o when_o the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n oppose_v itself_o &_o present_v he_o a_o cup_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n mortal_a to_o nature_n &_o all_o the_o inclination_n thereof_o he_o most_o willing_o quiet_o &_o cheerful_o accept_v it_o than_o subdue_a all_o reluctance_n in_o nature_n the_o which_o reluctance_n in_o he_o be_v to_o the_o thing_n itself_o consider_v in_o itself_o &_o not_o at_o all_o to_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o superior_a soul_n the_o which_o have_v so_o absolute_a a_o dominion_n over_o sensitive_a nature_n that_o it_o never_o oppose_v itself_o or_o express_v the_o least_o unwillingnes_n to_o conform_v itself_o to_o the_o dictate_v of_o reason_n though_o with_o its_o own_o destruction_n 6._o whereas_o therefore_o there_o be_v continual_o present_v to_o our_o outward_a &_o inward_a sense_n infinite_a object_n please_v &_o displease_v to_o they_o and_o that_o the_o function_n of_o of_o life_n which_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o preserve_v can_v be_v exercise_v without_o admit_v the_o use_n of_o many_o thing_n delightful_a to_o sensitive_a nature_n meat_n drink_n recreative_a conversatious_a &_o relaxation_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v &_o resolve_v that_o none_o of_o these_o thing_n please_v to_o the_o appetite_n be_v give_v to_o be_v possess_v with_o any_o affection_n at_o all_o or_o fruition_n but_o the_o mere_a simple_a use_n of_o they_o be_v allow_v we_o for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o soul_n &_o the_o contentment_n that_o the_o appetite_n natural_o take_v in_o they_o be_v no_o further_o nor_o with_o other_o intention_n to_o be_v admit_v then_o in_o as_o much_o as_o thereby_o the_o spirit_n or_o rational_a will_n be_v or_o may_v be_v enable_v more_o cheerful_o to_o pursue_v its_o supreme_a good_n and_o with_o this_o end_n &_o intention_n to_o admit_v sometime_o with_o caution_n &_o discretion_n of_o moderate_a comfort_n &_o contentment_n to_o inferior_a nature_n be_v not_o in_o itself_o at_o all_o unlawful_a on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v fit_v requisite_a &_o necessary_a 7._o but_o withal_o consider_v the_o most_o miserable_a and_o inexpressible_a corruption_n of_o our_o nature_n the_o violent_a adhesion_n of_o our_o appetite_n to_o sensual_o please_a object_n the_o uncertain_a &_o weak_a dominion_n that_o the_o superior_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n have_v over_o sensitive_a nature_n it_o be_v our_o duty_n &_o obligation_n not_o only_o to_o be_v watchful_a over_o the_o sensitive_a appetite_n that_o it_o do_v not_o with_o too_o much_o greediness_n pursue_v the_o contentment_n proper_a and_o necessary_a to_o it_o but_o also_o as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v to_o abridge_v the_o number_n of_o they_o make_v as_o few_o necessary_a as_o may_v be_v &_o not_o suffer_v it_o to_o accept_v all_o the_o lawful_a contentment_n offer_v to_o it_o yea_o oft_o to_o restrain_v &_o contradict_v the_o inclination_n of_o it_o in_o a_o word_n to_o use_v all_o the_o industry_n we_o can_v not_o to_o suffer_v it_o to_o run_v on_o blind_o before_o or_o without_o the_o conduct_n of_o reason_n to_o thing_n please_v to_o it_o &_o when_o we_o perceive_v it_o do_v so_o to_o call_v it_o back_o however_v not_o to_o suffer_v reason_n to_o favour_v it_o and_o join_v with_o it_o in_o its_o desire_n but_o to_o reserve_v all_o our_o rational_a inclination_n and_o affection_n to_o god_n only_o 8._o for_o the_o case_n with_o we_o be_v far_o different_a from_o that_o it_o be_v with_o adam_n during_o his_o state_n of_o innocency_n for_o than_o it_o be_v no_o inconvenience_n but_o rather_o perhaps_o a_o help_n to_o he_o free_o to_o make_v use_n of_o the_o pleasure_n afford_v he_o in_o paradise_n because_o though_o sensual_a pleasure_n be_v to_o he_o consider_v the_o exquisiteness_n of_o his_o temper_n far_o more_o pleasurable_a than_o they_o can_v be_v to_o we_o yet_o his_o appetite_n do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o desire_v or_o wish_v the_o least_o excess_n and_o his_o spirit_n be_v so_o replenish_v with_o divine_a love_n that_o by_o admit_v of_o such_o innocent_a satisfaction_n to_o nature_n it_o rather_o increase_v then_o diminish_v or_o interrupt_v its_o fervour_n in_o tend_v to_o god_n and_o express_v its_o gratitude_n love_n &_o obedience_n to_o he_o whereas_o we_o find_v all_o the_o contrary_a effect_n &_o therefore_o must_v take_v a_o quite_o contrary_a course_n 9_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o mortification_n so_o proper_a &_o necessary_a in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n and_o these_o be_v the_o venial_a sin_n or_o imperfection_n that_o we_o be_v continual_o to_o combat_v against_o in_o this_o point_n of_o distinction_n between_o the_o use_n of_o creature_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o enjoy_n of_o creature_n for_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n without_o regard_n to_o the_o soul_n good_a &_o advancement_n lie_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o child_n of_o god_n &_o the_o child_n of_o belial_n yea_o in_o
the_o degree_n of_o such_o use_n or_o enjoy_n between_o perfect_a good_a christian_n &_o imperfect_a yea_o moreover_o between_o those_o that_o be_v perfect_a in_o a_o active_a &_o those_o in_o a_o contemplative_a state_n for_o wicked_a man_n give_v way_n deliberate_o to_o a_o habitual_a enjoy_n of_o creature_n without_o regard_n to_o their_o soul_n or_o god_n yea_o contrary_a to_o his_o command_n and_o imperfect_a good_a christian_n have_v no_o care_n to_o root_v out_o of_o their_o soul_n a_o habitual_a love_n to_o creature_n except_o it_o be_v such_o a_o love_n as_o endanger_v the_o soul_n by_o expelling_a charity_n and_o last_o those_o that_o be_v perfect_a in_o a_o active_a life_n for_o want_n of_o a_o constant_a state_n of_o recollection_n do_v not_o enjoy_v a_o sufficient_a light_n to_o discover_v how_o in_o many_o thing_n of_o less_o importance_n they_o give_v way_n to_o sense_n prevent_v reason_n &_o enjoy_v outward_a contentment_n without_o that_o purity_n of_o intention_n which_o contemplative_n be_v far_o less_o distract_v do_v much_o more_o frequent_o &_o perfect_o exercise_v 10._o now_o have_v mention_v this_o diversity_n of_o venial_a sin_n &_o imperfection_n before_o i_o come_v to_o speak_v further_o of_o the_o mortification_n here_o intend_v i_o will_v add_v some_o few_o consideration_n touch_v venial_a sin_n with_o relation_n to_o a_o contemplative_a state_n 11._o if_o it_o be_v require_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o contemplative_a life_n that_o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v entire_o free_a from_o venial_a defect_n it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o attain_v unto_o it_o consider_v the_o incurable_a frailty_n of_o our_o nature_n the_o frequency_n of_o tentation_n &_o the_o incapacity_n which_o be_v in_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o a_o continual_a actual_a guard_n over_o herself_o true_a it_o be_v that_o by_o perseverance_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n accompany_v with_o mortification_n such_o defect_n become_v for_o number_n more_o rare_a &_o for_o quality_n less_o considerable_a but_o though_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n shall_v continue_v never_o so_o long_o a_o soul_n will_v find_v occasion_n &_o a_o necessity_n to_o be_v in_o continual_a resistance_n against_o her_o perverse_a inclination_n &_o in_o such_o combat_n will_v sometime_o come_v off_o with_o loss_n 12._o venial_a sin_n therefore_o be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o perfection_n although_o they_o shall_v be_v commit_v never_o so_o oft_o out_o of_o frailty_n subreption_n or_o ignorance_n but_o if_o they_o be_v commit_v deliberate_o advise_o customary_o &_o with_o affection_n they_o render_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o incapacity_n of_o attain_v to_o perfection_n in_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o great_a moment_n &_o consideration_n &_o therefore_o that_o we_o may_v distinguish_v aright_o between_o sin_v out_o of_o frailty_n surprise_n or_o infirmity_n &_o the_o sin_v out_o of_o affection_n to_o the_o object_n of_o venial_a sin_n we_o must_v know_v 13._o first_o that_o those_o be_v say_v to_o fall_v into_o venial_a sin_n out_o of_o frailty_n which_o commit_v they_o only_o when_o a_o occasion_n or_o tentation_n unwilling_o present_v itself_o &_o then_o be_v surprise_v with_o a_o sudden_a passion_n or_o deprive_v of_o sufficient_a vigilancy_n &_o reflection_n but_o upon_o a_o observation_n of_o their_o fault_n they_o present_o return_v to_o themselves_o &_o find_v a_o remorse_n &_o selfe-condemnation_n for_o it_o &_o a_o aversion_n at_o least_o in_o their_o superior_a will_n from_o such_o thing_n as_o hinder_v their_o approach_n unto_o god_n or_o if_o this_o be_v not_o do_v present_o however_o in_o their_o next_o recollection_n such_o offence_n if_o they_o be_v of_o any_o moment_n will_v be_v bring_v into_o their_o mind_n &_o will_v procure_v a_o sorrow_n &_o consequent_o a_o pardon_n for_o they_o but_o when_o they_o be_v out_o of_o such_o occasion_n or_o tentation_n they_o do_v not_o give_v way_n to_o a_o pleasure_n conceive_v in_o the_o object_n of_o they_o &_o much_o less_o do_v they_o voluntary_o seek_v or_o intend_v such_o occasion_n 14._o those_o in_o the_o second_o place_n be_v say_v to_o sin_n venial_o out_o of_o affection_n who_o both_o before_o &_o after_o such_o fault_n do_v deliberate_o neglect_v they_o yea_o &_o be_v so_o far_o from_o avoid_v the_o occasion_n of_o they_o that_o they_o do_v oft_o procure_v they_o and_o this_o out_o of_o affection_n not_o to_o the_o salt_n but_o to_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o see_v do_v often_o occasion_v the_o fault_n such_o be_v those_o that_o love_n curiosity_n in_o apparel_n delicacy_n of_o meat_n hear_v of_o vain_a discouse_n &_o that_o contrive_v meeting_n of_o jollity_n from_o whence_o they_o never_o escape_v without_o incur_v many_o defect_n now_o such_o soul_n may_v perhaps_o have_v remorse_n for_o the_o sin_n so_o commit_v &_o mention_v they_o with_o sorrow_n in_o confession_n but_o yet_o such_o remorse_n &_o confession_n be_v not_o from_o the_o whole_a heart_n not_o be_v sufficient_a to_o make_v they_o avoid_v the_o occasion_n when_o this_o may_v be_v do_v without_o much_o inconvenience_n or_o trouble_n yea_o they_o do_v not_o sufficient_o consider_v that_o the_o very_a love_n unto_o those_o vanity_n which_o occasion_n great_a defect_n if_o it_o be_v a_o deliberate_a love_n be_v in_o itself_o a_o sin_n though_o no_o other_o defect_n be_v occasion_v by_o it_o such_o can_v make_v no_o progress_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a as_o long_o as_o such_o know_v voluntary_a affection_n either_o to_o the_o sin_n or_o occasion_n be_v not_o mortify_v they_o do_v every_o day_n decline_v &_o grow_v more_o &_o more_o indispose_v to_o prayer_n the_o which_o thereby_o be_v so_o distract_a &_o so_o full_a of_o disquiet_v remorse_n that_o it_o be_v almost_o impossible_a to_o persevere_v constant_o in_o a_o exercise_n so_o very_o painful_a 15._o a_o hundred_o imperfection_n therefore_o though_o of_o some_o more_o than_o ordinary_a moment_n be_v not_o so_o contrary_a to_o perfection_n while_o thy_o be_v incur_v by_o surprisal_n or_o infirmity_n as_o be_v a_o affection_n retain_v to_o the_o least_o imperfection_n though_o it_o be_v but_o a_o unproffitable_a thought_n a_o wellminded_n &_o courageous_a soul_n therefore_o at_o her_o first_o entrance_n into_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n must_v &_o do_v in_o a_o instant_n cut_v of_o this_o deliberate_a affection_n to_o all_o venial_a sin_n &_o their_o occasion_n with_o discretion_n seek_v to_o avoid_v they_o although_o it_o may_v happen_v without_o any_o great_a prejudice_n to_o her_o progress_n that_o she_o may_v find_v herself_o very_o oft_o surprise_v &_o overcome_v by_o many_o &_o great_a fault_n 16._o neither_o ought_v any_o soul_n vain_o to_o flatter_v herself_o with_o a_o hope_n of_o reserve_v this_o affection_n without_o preiudice_v her_o pretension_n to_o perfection_n because_o one_o or_o two_o example_n almost_o miraculous_a be_v find_v of_o some_o soul_n that_o notwithstanding_o such_o affection_n have_v be_v visit_v by_o god_n with_o supernatural_a favour_n &_o exalt_v to_o a_o very_a sublime_a prayer_n as_o a_o late_a eminent_a saint_n write_v of_o her_o own_o self_n for_o beside_o that_o there_o be_v perhaps_o some_o excusable_a ignorance_n in_o she_o of_o the_o unlawfullnes_n of_o such_o affection_n we_o may_v say_v that_o god_n be_v please_v to_o confer_v on_o she_o such_o extraordinary_a favour_n not_o so_o much_o for_o she_o own_o sake_n but_o rather_o for_o the_o good_a of_o other_o in_o as_o much_o as_o she_o be_v destine_v by_o he_o to_o be_v the_o mistress_n &_o teacher_n of_o true_a contemplative_a prayer_n than_o almost_o unknow_v to_o the_o world_n 17._o but_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o according_a to_o the_o ordinary_a establish_a course_n of_o divine_a providence_n perfection_n in_o prayer_n be_v accompany_v with_o a_o proportionable_a perfection_n in_o mortification_n and_o therefore_o such_o soul_n as_o during_o a_o voluntary_a habitual_a affection_n to_o venial_a sin_n as_o to_o the_o obie&s_n obie&s_n obie&s_n &_o occasion_n of_o they_o do_v seem_v to_o have_v great_a light_n and_o profound_a recollection_n in_o prayer_n if_o the_o say_a light_n and_o recollection_n do_v not_o urge_v and_o incite_v they_o to_o quit_v such_o harmful_a affection_n such_o aught_o to_o suspect_v that_o all_o go_v not_o right_a with_o they_o but_o may_v just_o fear_v that_o the_o devil_n have_v some_o influence_n into_o such_o devotion_n so_o utter_o destitute_a of_o true_a mortification_n chap._n iii_o §_o 1._o natural_o we_o love_v ourselves_o only_o §_o 2._o even_o the_o best_a &_o most_o compose_a temper_n be_v deep_o guilty_a of_o self-love_n §_o 3._o the_o benefit_n of_o such_o good_a disposition_n §_o 4._o self-love_n &_o propriety_n must_v unjuersal_o be_v avoid_v §_o 5._o 6._o a_o state_n of_o affliction_n &_o cross_n be_v only_o secure_a §_o 7._o what_o use_n be_v to_o
in_o troublesome_a disquiet_v imagination_n and_o resuery_n far_o more_o distract_n then_o any_o conversation_n therefore_o they_o or_o rather_o their_o superior_n ought_v to_o take_v a_o special_a care_n that_o such_o a_o dangerous_a humour_n be_v not_o nourish_v by_o discontent_a retirement_n at_o the_o time_n when_o other_o be_v converse_v together_o and_o that_o at_o all_o other_o time_n they_o shall_v be_v busy_v in_o such_o kind_n of_o employment_n as_o shall_v not_o be_v apt_a to_o nourish_v solicitude_n such_o disposition_n if_o prudent_o manage_v may_v prove_v proper_a for_o contemplation_n because_o their_o thought_n be_v not_o easy_o dissipate_v they_o be_v dispose_v for_o recollection_n whereas_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o same_o disposition_n be_v neglect_v and_o suffer_v to_o follow_v the_o bent_n of_o their_o nature_n they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o fall_v into_o terrible_a extravagancy_n 20._o s._n teresa_n in_o her_o foundation_n have_v a_o particular_a discourse_n contain_v excellent_a advice_n how_o melancholic_a spirit_n be_v to_o be_v manage_v say_v that_o they_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v dispense_v from_o mortification_n or_o employment_n from_o which_o they_o be_v averse_a notwithstanding_o this_o forwardness_n of_o their_o humour_n yet_o withal_o that_o the_o superior_a in_o his_o carriage_n towards_o they_o ought_v to_o make_v it_o appear_v that_o all_o that_o he_o impose_v so_o on_o they_o proceed_v from_o pure_a charity_n and_o not_o any_o crossenes_n or_o aversion_n etc._n etc._n chap._n viii_o §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o of_o the_o four_o kind_n of_o general_n mortification_n viz._n tranquillity_n of_o mind_n §_o 4._o 5._o it_o may_v be_v in_o the_o superior_a soul_n during_o the_o time_n that_o there_o be_v disquiet_a in_o the_o sensitive_a §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o how_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o soul_n may_v be_v procure_v §_o 9_o 10._o of_o a_o state_n of_o perfect_a peace_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n 1._o the_o four_o general_n mortification_n be_v a_o constant_a peacefullnes_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n maintain_v itself_o against_o all_o disquiet_v passion_n of_o grief_n fear_v despair_v &c_n &c_n of_o which_o i_o shall_v in_o this_o place_n speak_v brief_o and_o only_o in_o a_o general_a manner_n be_v short_o in_o the_o follow_a section_n to_o treat_v large_o of_o the_o chief_a enemy_n thereof_o which_o be_v fear_n and_o scrupulosity_n where_o i_o shall_v take_v notice_n of_o the_o special_a motive_n or_o instrument_n of_o procure_v such_o peace_n of_o mind_n and_o of_o restore_v it_o when_o it_o be_v lose_v 2._o without_o a_o reasonable_a proportion_n of_o such_o tranquillity_n obtain_v a_o soul_n will_v be_v quite_o disable_v from_o internal_a prayer_n therefore_o she_o be_v to_o use_v all_o care_n to_o preserve_v it_o and_o when_o it_o be_v disturb_v or_o lose_v she_o must_v endeavour_v as_o soon_o and_o after_o the_o best_a manner_n she_o can_v to_o regain_v it_o till_o she_o be_v able_a to_o say_v none_o shall_v take_v my_o peace_n from_o i_o and_o to_o use_v the_o word_n of_o the_o psalmist_n anima_fw-la mea_fw-la in_o manibus_fw-la meis_fw-la semper_fw-la my_o soul_n be_v always_o in_o my_o hand_n and_o disposition_n and_o not_o captivate_v by_o the_o corrupt_a passion_n of_o nature_n 3._o the_o subject_n of_o this_o peace_n be_v the_o soul_n according_a to_o all_o its_o faculty_n both_o know_v and_o affect_v and_o both_o in_o the_o superior_a and_o spiritual_a as_o also_o in_o the_o inferior_a and_o sensitive_a portion_n for_o not_o only_o the_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n and_o passion_n of_o sensuality_n but_o also_o the_o reason_n and_o imagination_n may_v be_v disturb_v and_o therefore_o a_o composednes_n and_o calmness_n be_v to_o be_v procure_v through_o all_o but_o yet_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n herto_o necessary_a be_v not_o the_o same_o neither_o do_v it_o follow_v that_o when_o the_o inferior_a faculty_n be_v in_o disorder_n that_o the_o same_o disorder_n shall_v be_v communicate_v to_o the_o superior_a also_o it_o do_v not_o always_o lie_v in_o our_o power_n whole_o to_o suppress_v the_o instability_n and_o obstinacy_n of_o the_o imagination_n nor_o the_o unrulines_n of_o sensuality_n which_o oft_o time_n do_v resist_v our_o superior_a reasâ—n_n but_o we_o be_v always_o enable_v by_o the_o ordinary_a grace_n of_o god_n to_o keep_v in_o repose_v our_o superior_a soul_n that_o be_v to_o hinder_v it_o from_o attend_v to_o the_o suggestion_n of_o the_o imagination_n which_o we_o may_v reject_v or_o to_o deny_v consent_n or_o approbation_n to_o the_o motion_n of_o sensuality_n and_o this_o aâ—_n lest_o it_o must_v be_v our_o great_a care_n to_o do_v 4._o neither_o ought_v a_o wellminded_n soul_n to_o be_v discourage_v or_o deject_a at_o the_o contradiction_n that_o she_o find_v in_o sensuality_n but_o resist_v it_o the_o best_a she_o can_v she_o must_v be_v resign_v and_o patient_a with_o herself_o as_o she_o will_v be_v at_o the_o refractory_a humour_n of_o another_o till_o that_o by_o god_n blessing_n a_o long_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n do_v produce_v a_o great_a subjection_n of_o sensual_a nature_n to_o reason_n and_o grace_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n she_o may_v comfort_v herself_o with_o this_o assurance_n that_o all_o merit_n and_o demerit_n lie_v in_o the_o superior_a will_n and_o not_o at_o all_o in_o sensuality_n consider_v in_o itself_o and_o as_o divide_v from_o the_o will._n 5._o during_o the_o conflict_n between_o reason_n and_o sense_n or_o appetite_n there_o may_v be_v a_o real_a tranquillity_n in_o the_o superior_a region_n of_o the_o soul_n although_o the_o person_n be_v not_o able_a to_o discern_v that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o quietness_n yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a to_o fearful_a nature_n it_o will_v seem_v that_o whensoever_o the_o sensitive_a part_n be_v disturb_v the_o spiritual_a portion_n do_v also_o partake_v of_o its_o disorder_n and_o this_o uncertainty_n mistake_v and_o fear_n that_o a_o fault_n have_v be_v commit_v be_v the_o ground_n of_o much_o scrupulosity_n and_o by_o mean_n thereof_o of_o great_a unquietnes_n indeed_o even_o in_o the_o superior_a soul_n to_o person_n that_o be_v not_o well_o instruct_v in_o the_o nature_n and_o subordination_n of_o the_o faculty_n and_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n 6._o however_o a_o wellminded_n soul_n may_v conclude_v that_o there_o be_v a_o calmness_n in_o the_o reason_n and_o in_o the_o will_v a_o refusal_n to_o consent_v to_o the_o suggestion_n of_o sensuality_n even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o great_a disorder_n thereof_o while_o that_o the_o combat_n do_v not_o cease_v and_o as_o long_o as_o the_o outward_a member_n direct_v by_o reason_n and_o move_v by_o the_o superior_a will_n do_v behave_v themselves_o otherwise_o then_o the_o unruly_a appetite_n will_v move_v they_o for_o example_n when_o a_o person_n be_v move_v to_o anger_n though_o he_o find_v a_o unquiet_a representation_n in_o the_o imrgination_n and_o a_o violent_a heat_n and_o motion_n about_o the_o heart_n as_o likewise_o a_o aversion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n against_o the_o person_n that_o have_v give_v the_o provocation_n yet_o if_o notwithstanding_o he_o refrain_v himself_o from_o break_v forth_o into_o word_n of_o impatience_n to_o which_o his_o passion_n will_v urge_v he_o &_o withal_o contradict_v design_n of_o revenge_n suggest_v by_o passion_n such_o a_o one_o practise_v internal_a prayer_n and_o mortification_n be_v to_o esteem_v himself_o not_o to_o have_v consent_v to_o the_o motion_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n although_o beside_o the_o inward_a motion_n of_o the_o appetite_n he_o can_v not_o hinder_v mark_n of_o his_o passion_n from_o appear_v in_o his_o eye_n and_o the_o colour_n of_o his_o countenance_n 7._o when_o we_o seek_v to_o retaaine_v such_o quietness_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o unquietnes_n we_o do_v it_o by_o exercise_v a_o act_n of_o mortification_n proper_a to_o the_o occasion_n every_o act_n whereof_o do_v in_o some_o degree_n abate_v impetuous_a nature_n dispose_v we_o for_o better_a and_o more_o quiet_a recollection_n which_o will_v procure_v we_o a_o clear_a light_n and_o more_o efficacious_a grace_n to_o resist_v sensuality_n afterward_o as_o on_o the_o contrary_a each_o act_n of_o immortification_n do_v increase_v in_o we_o self-love_n the_o cause_n and_o root_n of_o all_o unquietnes_n and_o cause_v a_o great_a obscurity_n in_o the_o soul_n indispose_v it_o likewise_o to_o prayer_n 8._o to_o the_o end_n to_o procure_v a_o habitual_a peacefullnes_n of_o mind_n we_o must_v be_v careful_a not_o to_o do_v any_o of_o our_o action_n i_o mean_v even_o our_o action_n of_o duty_n with_o impetuousnes_n and_o a_o inward_a hastiness_n but_o with_o a_o compose_a calmness_n for_o all_o act_n of_o impetuosity_n and_o violence_n be_v so_o far_o but_o effect_n of_o self-love_n and_o proceed_v not_o from_o the_o divine_a spirit_n which_o be_v
pleasure_n sake_n and_o not_o for_o virtue_n it_o be_v ourselves_o only_o that_o we_o love_v in_o such_o a_o person_n who_o we_o then_o love_v not_o proper_o as_o a_o person_n but_o as_o a_o thing_n pleasurable_a to_o us._n but_o by_o a_o love_n of_o friendship_n we_o do_v at_o least_o we_o profess_v to_o love_v the_o person_n for_o the_o person_n sake_n and_o to_o seek_v therein_o not_o our_o own_o good_a but_o only_o the_o person_n for_o who_o great_a good_n we_o be_v willing_a to_o neglect_v our_o own_o yea_o sometime_o for_o the_o person_n contentment_n safety_n etc._n etc._n to_o sacrifice_v our_o own_o contentment_n or_o may_v be_v our_o life_n also_o thus_o far_o friendship_n have_v be_v describe_v in_o ancient_n and_o latter_a time_n and_o charity_n be_v by_o all_o acknowledged_a to_o be_v a_o love_n of_o friendship_n to_o god_n and_o for_o his_o sake_n only_o to_o man_n or_o ourselves_o 5._o indeed_o if_o we_o narrow_o examine_v the_o matter_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o there_o neither_o be_v nor_o can_v be_v aâ—y_o other_o true_a friendship_n but_o charity_n or_o the_o love_n which_o we_o bear_v to_o god_n or_o for_o god_n and_o that_o all_o other_o pretend_v freindships_n either_o among_o heathen_n or_o christian_n be_v mere_a sensual_a self-love_n for_o though_o in_o some_o freindâ—hips_n as_o they_o be_v call_v some_o have_v profess_v so_o absolute_a a_o purity_n and_o freedom_n from_o selfe-interest_n as_o for_o their_o friend_n sake_n to_o neglect_v not_o only_o all_o temporal_a respect_n of_o riches_n honour_n pleasure_n &c_n &c_n but_o also_o willing_o expose_v their_o life_n yet_o indeed_o the_o true_a motive_n of_o all_o be_v a_o sensual_a love_n unto_o themselves_o for_o therefore_o for_o their_o friend_n sake_n they_o make_v choice_n of_o death_n rather_o than_o to_o live_v deprive_v of_o they_o because_o the_o want_n of_o so_o great_a a_o sensual_a contentment_n be_v far_o more_o bitter_a &_o insupportable_a to_o they_o then_o the_o pain_n of_o suffer_a death_n which_o will_v quick_o be_v finish_v whereas_o the_o languour_n and_o torture_v of_o the_o other_o will_v never_o have_v cease_v till_o death_n 6._o but_o charity_n be_v only_o and_o in_o the_o most_o strict_a sense_n a_o friendship_n because_o therein_o all_o our_o love_n be_v terminate_v in_o god_n only_o we_o love_v nothing_o but_o he_o or_o for_o he_o yea_o we_o direct_v the_o love_n not_o only_o of_o all_o other_o creature_n but_o also_o of_o ourselves_o only_o to_o he_o 7._o now_o in_o what_o sense_n it_o be_v usual_o say_v that_o our_o love_n to_o god_n must_v be_v a_o free_a unconcern_v love_n renounce_v all_o interest_n or_o expectation_n of_o reward_n as_o a_o motive_n thereto_o and_o how_o this_o pure_o free_a love_n may_v nothwitstanding_n consist_v with_o yea_o be_v ground_v upon_o a_o hope_n of_o retribution_n in_o heaven_n consist_v in_o the_o vision_n and_o fruition_n of_o god_n see_v the_o follow_a appendix_n at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o last_o treatise_n chap._n iii_o §_o 1._o 2._o the_o proper_a seat_n of_o charity_n be_v the_o superior_a will_n not_o the_o sensitive_a affection_n though_o oft_o in_o beginner_n it_o operate_v much_o there_o §_o 3._o 4._o several_a act_n or_o fruit_n of_o charity_n §_o 5._o 6._o the_o secure_a practice_n of_o divine_a love_n be_v by_o self_n abnegation_n §_o 7._o propriety_n make_v and_o fill_v hell_n and_o resignation_n heaven_n 1._o the_o most_o precious_a virtue_n of_o charity_n reside_v not_o in_o sensuality_n neither_o be_v it_o a_o painful_a longing_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o cause_v motion_n in_o the_o heart_n yea_o though_o it_o become_v such_o a_o love_n as_o mystic_n call_v a_o languish_a love_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o such_o as_o sensual_a love_n use_n to_o be_v a_o troublesome_a unquiet_a passion_n but_o it_o be_v seat_v in_o the_o superior_a soul_n be_v a_o quiet_a but_o most_o resolute_a determination_n of_o the_o superior_a will_n to_o seek_v god_n and_o a_o perfect_a union_n with_o he_o the_o which_o resolution_n she_o will_v not_o give_v over_o for_o any_o distraction_n or_o occur_v difficulty_n whatsoever_o yea_o than_o it_o be_v oft_o most_o excellent_a and_o perfect_a when_o the_o heart_n or_o inferior_a nature_n receive_v the_o least_o contentment_n by_o it_o yea_o on_o the_o contrary_n feel_v the_o great_a disgust_n and_o desolation_n and_o such_o a_o resolution_n be_v ground_v on_o a_o high_a esteem_n we_o have_v by_o faith_n of_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o god_n and_o the_o innumerable_a obligation_n lay_v by_o he_o on_o us._n this_o make_v a_o inflame_a soul_n to_o despise_v all_o thing_n whatsoever_o for_o god_n and_o to_o tend_v to_o he_o with_o a_o resolution_n of_o enjoy_v he_o though_o with_o the_o loss_n of_o pleasure_n riches_n honour_n yea_o and_o the_o life_n itself_o 2._o yet_o so_o generous_a a_o love_n as_o this_o be_v not_o get_v sudden_o at_o the_o first_o it_o be_v very_o imperfect_a &_o much_o allay_v by_o self-interest_n and_o seek_v contentment_n to_o nature_n even_o in_o the_o action_n do_v for_o god_n so_o that_o be_v it_o not_o that_o ordinary_o during_o such_o a_o state_n of_o imperfection_n god_n cherish_v the_o soul_n with_o sensible_a comfort_n &_o gust_n which_o she_o feel_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o her_o love_n to_o he_o she_o will_v scarce_o have_v courage_n enough_o to_o proceed_v 3._o the_o act_n effect_n and_o fruit_n proper_a to_o pure_a charity_n or_o divine_a friendship_n be_v 1._o to_o be_v unite_v in_o affection_n to_o god_n as_o our_o chief_a &_o only_o good_a with_o who_o in_o some_o sort_n we_o be_v one_o 2_o out_o of_o love_n to_o he_o to_o take_v joy_n in_o his_o perfection_n congratulate_v with_o he_o therefore_o &_o exult_v that_o he_o be_v adore_v &_o glorify_v by_o angel_n &_o saint_n 3._o to_o will_n and_o consent_n to_o the_o immutability_n of_o those_o perfection_n 4._o to_o desire_v and_o occasion_n be_v give_v to_o endeavour_v that_o all_o creature_n may_v love_v and_o adore_v he_o that_o infidel_n and_o sinner_n may_v be_v convert_v to_o he_o that_o so_o he_o may_v reign_v by_o love_n in_o all_o 5._o to_o be_v sorry_a for_o all_o offence_n both_o our_o own_o and_o other_o commit_v against_o he_o 6._o in_o pure_a love_n to_o he_o to_o determine_v faithful_o and_o unchangeable_o to_o serve_v he_o 7._o to_o take_v iâ—y_n in_o all_o thing_n that_o please_v he_o 8._o with_o indifferency_n to_o accept_v of_o all_o thing_n from_o his_o hand_n as_o well_o thing_n displease_v to_o our_o nature_n as_o please_v 9_o to_o be_v sorry_a for_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v contrary_a to_o his_o holy_a will_n 10._o to_o love_v all_o thing_n that_o belong_v to_o he_o mere_o for_o that_o reason_n 11._o for_o his_o sake_n to_o love_v all_o man_n yea_o even_o our_o enemy_n &_o persecutor_n nay_o moreover_o to_o endeavour_v to_o express_v some_o effect_n of_o love_n more_o to_o they_o than_o other_o as_o be_v special_a instrument_n of_o procure_v great_a good_a to_o we_o then_o our_o friend_n be_v 12._o to_o do_v all_o the_o honour_n we_o can_v to_o he_o and_o all_o the_o service_n we_o can_v to_o other_o for_o his_o sake_n 13._o in_o nothing_o to_o seek_v temporal_a commodity_n but_o only_o to_o please_v he_o 14._o to_o imitate_v he_o in_o all_o his_o perfection_n that_o be_v imitable_a and_o particular_o for_o his_o sake_n to_o love_v other_o with_o the_o like_a freedom_n of_o love_n wherewith_o he_o have_v love_v we_o not_o seek_v any_o commodity_n to_o himself_o thereby_o 15._o to_o endeavour_v to_o serve_v he_o the_o best_a we_o can_v and_o yet_o withal_o to_o rejoice_v that_o he_o be_v serve_v more_o perfect_o by_o other_o 16._o to_o serve_v and_o love_v he_o only_o in_o the_o service_n &_o love_n that_o we_o show_v to_o superior_n equal_v or_o inferior_n 17._o to_o resolve_v never_o to_o accept_v of_o any_o contentment_n but_o in_o he_o nor_o other_o happiness_n but_o only_o he_o and_o therefore_o not_o to_o rest_v with_o affection_n in_o any_o of_o his_o gift_n but_o only_o in_o himself_o 18._o never_o to_o set_v bound_n to_o the_o measure_n of_o our_o love_n but_o still_o to_o endeavour_v to_o love_v he_o more_o and_o better_a 19_o to_o desire_v to_o suffer_v for_o he_o here_o be_v for_o the_o present_a content_v with_o hope_n only_o of_o enjoy_v for_o the_o future_a 20._o to_o hate_v ourselves_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n our_o insensiblenes_n of_o his_o goodness_n etc._n etc._n with_o a_o most_o perfect_a hatred_n never_o be_v weary_a in_o persecute_v and_o mortify_v ourselves_o 21._o to_o love_v he_o equal_o in_o his_o command_n as_o in_o his_o rewards_o 22._o to_o congratulate_v &_o take_v contentment_n in_o any_o act_n of_o temporal_a severity_n exercise_v by_o he_o on_o us._n 23._o never_o
mark_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n before_o i_o begin_v any_o work_n i_o do_v serious_o offer_v it_o to_o god_n beg_v his_o assistance_n 22._o active_a liver_n have_v need_v in_o almost_o all_o their_o action_n of_o moment_n to_o frame_v a_o actual_a intention_n but_o not_o so_o the_o contemplative_a who_o be_v always_o habitual_o unite_v to_o god_n for_o such_o iteration_n of_o actual_a intention_n will_v cause_v too_o much_o distraction_n to_o they_o 23._o to_o conclude_v how_o difficult_a and_o uneasy_a soever_o to_o nature_n the_o attain_n to_o purity_n of_o intention_n be_v because_o thereby_o the_o very_a soul_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o be_v propriety_n be_v root_v out_o yet_o since_o it_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n therefore_o consider_v god_n promise_n that_o he_o never_o will_v be_v want_v to_o our_o endeavour_n soul_n of_o good_a will_n will_v find_v it_o neither_o impossible_a nor_o of_o so_o great_a difficulty_n as_o at_o first_o it_o appear_v if_o they_o will_v attempt_v it_o with_o a_o strong_a resolution_n to_o quicken_v &_o fortify_v which_o resolution_n i_o will_v end_v this_o discourse_n with_o that_o pierce_a saying_n of_o harphius_n o_o how_o great_a and_o hide_a deceit_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n will_v appear_v say_v he_o and_o be_v discover_v and_o consequent_o be_v severe_o punish_v after_o this_o life_n for_o that_o soul_n have_v not_o here_o be_v purify_v and_o make_v deiforme_a in_o their_o intention_n god_n almighty_n give_v we_o the_o grace_n to_o discover_v now_o and_o reform_v this_o perilous_a and_o secret_a self-seeking_a of_o nature_n to_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o holy_a name_n amen_o chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o love_v of_o god_n in_o ourselves_o &_o other_o creature_n and_o how_o the_o love_n to_o ourselves_o be_v to_o be_v order_v §_o 3._o even_o that_o love_n which_o be_v duty_n in_o heathen_n etc._n etc._n be_v defectuous_a §_o 4._o we_o can_v not_o love_v other_o true_o &_o meritorious_o till_o we_o first_o love_n god_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o all_o affection_n not_o proceed_v from_o charity_n be_v to_o be_v mortify_v §_o 8._o all_o intellectual_a creature_n be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o charity_n except_o the_o damn_a soul_n &_o devil_n §_o 9_o of_o the_o order_n of_o charity_n §_o 10._o 11._o 12_o 13._o 14._o those_o be_v most_o to_o be_v love_v even_o above_o ourselves_o who_o god_n love_v most_o yet_o certain_a duty_n proceed_v from_o love_n as_o honour_n sustenance_n alm_n etc._n etc._n be_v first_o to_o be_v extend_v to_o parent_n friend_n &c_n &c_n and_o special_o to_o ourselves_o §_o 15._o 16._o 17._o further_a proof_n of_o this_o §_o 18._o whether_o beauty_n etc._n etc._n may_v be_v a_o motive_n of_o love._n §_o 19_o 20._o 21._o 22._o of_o love_n extend_v to_o enemy_n who_o be_v esteem_v enemy_n §_o 23._o great_a grace_n require_v to_o practice_v this_o duty_n aright_o §_o 24._o 25._o degree_n of_o love_n to_o suppose_v enemy_n and_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o §_o 26_o of_o a_o special_a kind_n of_o love_n call_v philadelphia_n or_o love_n of_o the_o fraternity_n of_o believe_v holy_a christian_n catholic_n 1._o before_o we_o end_v the_o subject_n of_o divine_a love_n something_o be_v to_o be_v say_v of_o love_n to_o ourselves_o &_o our_o neighbour_n in_o and_o for_o god_n for_o as_o for_o the_o love_n which_o out_o of_o god_n we_o bear_v to_o ourselves_o or_o any_o other_o it_o be_v not_o worth_a the_o treat_v of_o as_o be_v altogether_o defectuous_a and_o ground_v in_o nature_n and_o the_o more_o vehement_a it_o be_v the_o more_o defectuous_a be_v it_o 2._o the_o right_a order_v therefore_o of_o our_o love_n to_o ourselves_o and_o our_o brethren_n consist_v in_o this_o 1._o that_o the_o motive_n of_o our_o love_n must_v be_v the_o divine_a will_n &_o command_n 2._o the_o ground_n thereof_o must_v be_v the_o relation_n in_o which_o we_o stand_v to_o god_n as_o capable_a of_o the_o communication_n of_o divine_a grace_n and_o beatitude_n 3._o the_o end_n must_v be_v to_o bring_v ourselves_o and_o other_o either_o by_o our_o endeavour_n exhortaion_n etc._n etc._n or_o by_o our_o prayer_n to_o god_n that_o he_o may_v be_v love_v &_o glorify_v by_o we_o in_o the_o do_n of_o which_o consist_v our_o perfection_n &_o happiness_n 4._o last_o the_o subject_n of_o this_o love_n must_v be_v the_o superior_a will_n especial_o as_o for_o tenderness_n of_o nature_n distract_n sollicitude_n &_o unquiet_a image_n in_o the_o mind_n touch_v those_o we_o love_v the_o best_a &_o safe_a course_n will_v be_v to_o mortify_v &_o diminish_v they_o as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v as_o proceed_v from_o a_o natural_a sensual_a affection_n the_o which_o as_o far_o as_o it_o do_v not_o flow_v from_o the_o superior_a soul_n &_o be_v not_o subordinate_a &_o direct_v to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v defectuous_a 3._o hence_o appear_v first_o that_o affection_n in_o person_n that_o be_v stranger_n from_o the_o true_a faith_n be_v full_a of_o defectuousnesse_n in_o all_o the_o particular_a respect_n before_o mention_v for_o though_o for_o example_n the_o love_n which_o child_n owe_v to_o their_o parent_n &_o the_o affection_n mutual_o due_a between_o husband_n &_o wife_n &c_n &c_n be_v for_o the_o substance_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n &_o right_a reason_n &_o consequent_o so_o far_o conformable_a to_o the_o divine_a will_n so_o that_o the_o want_n or_o refusal_n of_o such_o love_n &_o the_o neglect_n of_o the_o duty_n &_o office_n require_v by_o such_o relation_n be_v a_o great_a sin_n yet_o there_o can_v bâ—_n no_o merit_n either_o in_o such_o love_n or_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o by_o reason_n that_o it_o be_v neither_o from_o the_o motive_n of_o divine_a charity_n nor_o direct_v to_o the_o glorify_v of_o god_n by_o perfect_a love_n from_o which_o all_o merit_n proceed_v 4._o second_o it_o follow_v from_o hence_o that_o we_o can_v neither_o meritorious_o love_v ourselves_o nor_o our_o brethren_n till_o first_o we_o be_v firm_o root_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n because_o charity_n to_o ourselves_o or_o other_o be_v indeed_o only_a love_n to_o god_n by_o reflection_n or_o the_o love_a of_o god_n in_o thing_n belong_v to_o he_o &_o which_o he_o either_o love_n or_o may_v love_v 5._o therefore_o a_o internal_a liver_n ought_v to_o mortify_v all_o sensual_a affection_n to_o creature_n i_o mean_v all_o particular_a freindships_n &_o intimacy_n which_o be_v not_o ground_v upon_o the_o necessary_a foundation_n of_o the_o divine_a love_n and_o as_o for_o such_o affection_n as_o be_v necessary_o due_a by_o virtue_n of_o some_o respect_n &_o relation_n that_o god_n have_v put_v between_o ourselves_o &_o any_o other_o such_o a_o one_o ought_v as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v to_o root_v they_o out_o of_o the_o sensual_a portion_n of_o the_o soul_n because_o there_o they_o will_v cause_v great_a distraction_n &_o hindrance_n of_o our_o most_o necessary_a love_n to_o god_n 6._o a_o serious_a care_n to_o practice_v according_a to_o this_o advice_n be_v very_o necessary_a especial_o in_o religious_a community_n both_o for_o our_o own_o good_a &_o other_o for_o beside_o that_o sensual_a freindships_n ground_a on_o external_a or_o sensual_a respect_n be_v most_o unbeseeming_a person_n that_o have_v consecrate_v themselves_o only_o to_o god_n &_o infinite_o prejudicial_a to_o abstraction_n &_o recollectednes_n of_o mind_n &_o much_o more_o if_o they_o be_v between_o person_n of_o different_a sex_n such_o particular_a intimatcy_n can_v choose_v but_o cause_n particulity_n faction_n particular_a design_n &c_n &c_n to_o the_o great_a disturbance_n &_o harm_n of_o the_o community_n 7._o the_o least_o defectuous_a among_o the_o ground_n of_o a_o particular_a friendship_n may_v be_v the_o resentment_n &_o gratitude_n for_o benefit_n especial_o spiritual_a one_o that_o have_v ben_fw-mi receive_v but_o yet_o even_o in_o this_o case_n also_o we_o ought_v to_o prevent_v the_o settle_n of_o amity_n in_o the_o sensual_a part_n of_o the_o soul_n &_o content_v ourselves_o with_o requite_v such_o obligation_n by_o our_o prayer_n or_o by_o a_o return_n of_o proportionable_a benefit_n 8._o now_o charity_n be_v to_o be_v extend_v to_o all_o intellectual_a creature_n that_o be_v to_o all_o angel_n &_o all_o man_n whether_o alive_a or_o dead_a except_o only_o the_o reprobate_a angel_n &_o damn_a soul_n which_o be_v not_o object_n of_o our_o charity_n in_o as_o much_o as_o they_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o enjoy_v god_n which_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o charity_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o our_o charity_n to_o the_o glorify_a saint_n &_o angel_n must_v be_v a_o congratulation_n with_o they_o for_o their_o happiness_n &_o for_o the_o love_n which_o they_o bear_v to_o god_n &_o which_o god_n will_v eternal_o bear_v reciprocal_o to_o they_o
he_o in_o the_o grace_n proper_o deserve_v love_n yet_o several_a effect_n of_o charity_n &_o of_o other_o virtue_n or_o quality_n in_o we_o flow_a from_o charity_n be_v in_o the_o first_o place_n after_o god_n to_o be_v exhibit_v to_o ourselves_o &_o afterward_o to_o those_o that_o god_n have_v place_v near_o to_o we_o respective_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o nearnes_n 15._o for_o charity_n be_v a_o affection_n rather_o of_o the_o will_n than_o the_o sensitive_a faculty_n seem_v to_o be_v a_o certain_a esteem_n &_o value_v set_v upon_o person_n &_o consequent_o a_o adhesion_n of_o the_o will_n &_o tendance_n to_o a_o internal_a union_n of_o spirit_n with_o they_o now_o questionless_a this_o esteem_n though_o due_a to_o all_o in_o as_o much_o as_o all_o either_o do_v or_o may_v participate_v of_o god_n grace_n &_o happiness_n yet_o in_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o it_o it_o be_v most_o due_a to_o those_o that_o most_o deserve_v it_o or_o that_o be_v most_o like_a unto_o god_n so_o that_o to_o value_v ourselves_o or_o any_o mortal_a friend_n or_o kindred_n before_o the_o glorify_a saint_n will_v be_v irrational_a &_o unseemly_a charity_n will_v then_o be_v disorderly_a contrary_a to_o what_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v ordinavit_fw-la in_fw-la i_o charitatem_fw-la he_o have_v fit_o &_o due_o order_v charity_n in_o i_o true_a it_o be_v that_o by_o reason_n of_o self-love_n &_o self-interest_n which_o be_v never_o whole_o root_v out_o of_o we_o in_o this_o life_n as_o likewise_o the_o great_a dominion_n that_o sensitive_a nature_n oft_o take_v in_o our_o action_n we_o can_v hardly_o prevent_v or_o hinder_v love_n from_o show_v a_o great_a regard_n to_o ourselves_o &_o our_o near_a friend_n yet_o as_o far_o as_o it_o be_v a_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n so_o it_o may_v yea_o in_o perfect_a soul_n it_o be_v strong_a towards_o those_o that_o be_v near_a to_o god_n 16._o but_o as_o for_o some_o special_a office_n &_o duty_n which_o in_o we_o do_v or_o aught_o to_o flow_v from_o charity_n thâ—y_o be_v to_o be_v exhibit_v according_a as_o god_n have_v place_v person_n in_o several_a relation_n to_o us._n now_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o god_n have_v make_v we_o near_o to_o ourselves_o &_o have_v entrust_v to_o every_o particular_a person_n the_o care_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n before_o all_o other_o therefore_o every_o one_o be_v oblige_v to_o bestow_v his_o chief_a solicitude_n &_o endeavour_n upon_o the_o adorn_v of_o his_o own_o soul_n &_o the_o direct_n of_o it_o to_o happiness_n as_o for_o other_o man_n certain_a general_a duty_n of_o this_o nature_n be_v upon_o occasion_n only_o to_o be_v exhibit_v towards_o all_o hence_o we_o be_v general_o command_v to_o exhort_v edify_v reproove_v etc._n etc._n one_o a_o other_o but_o these_o duty_n be_v to_o be_v the_o employment_n &_o particular_a charge_n only_o of_o those_o that_o god_n have_v call_v to_o the_o care_n of_o soul_n yet_o so_o as_o that_o no_o soul_n be_v so_o strict_o entrust_v to_o any_o one_o as_o his_o own_o so_o that_o upon_o no_o pretence_n can_v it_o be_v lawful_a for_o any_o one_o to_o neglect_v the_o care_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n and_o in_o the_o extend_v of_o these_o office_n of_o spiritual_a or_o corporal_a charity_n reason_n require_v that_o other_o circumstance_n be_v equal_a we_o shall_v prefer_v those_o that_o have_v near_a relation_n to_o we_o except_o when_o stranger_n do_v stand_v in_o far_o great_a necessity_n for_o they_o be_v then_o to_o be_v account_v as_o near_o to_o we_o &_o as_o it_o be_v commit_v to_o our_o charge_n 17._o therefore_o external_a work_n of_o charity_n &_o other_o office_n though_o they_o ought_v all_o to_o be_v pay_v out_o of_o charity_n honour_n to_o who_o honour_n be_v due_a fear_v to_o who_o fear_n etc._n etc._n yet_o they_o be_v not_o to_o follow_v the_o order_n of_o charity_n but_o of_o proximity_n so_o that_o in_o equal_a necessity_n we_o be_v to_o prefer_v our_o parent_n kindred_n near_o neighbour_n special_a friend_n in_o regard_n of_o give_v alm_n &c_n &c_n before_o those_o that_o may_v challenge_v the_o preference_n in_o the_o affection_n of_o pure_a charity_n as_o be_v more_o holy_a &_o more_o belove_a of_o god_n it_o may_v notwithstanding_o happen_v that_o in_o some_o case_n there_o may_v be_v a_o doubt_n how_o the_o order_n of_o charity_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v but_o a_o soul_n that_o follow_v internal_a prayer_n will_v not_o want_v a_o light_n to_o direct_v she_o to_o give_v particular_a rule_n will_v be_v tedious_a &_o impertinent_a to_o the_o present_a design_n this_o therefore_o may_v suffice_v concern_v the_o order_n of_o charity_n in_o general_n 18._o it_o may_v be_v demand_v whether_o external_a corporal_a endowment_n as_o youth_n beauty_n gracefullnes_n &c_n &c_n may_v be_v permit_v to_o enter_v as_o a_o motive_n into_o the_o love_n that_o we_o bear_v to_o other_o i_o answer_n that_o such_o corporal_a perfection_n be_v gift_n of_o god_n may_v lawful_o as_o such_o be_v motive_n of_o love_n namely_o to_o those_o that_o be_v so_o perfect_a as_o that_o they_o can_v use_v they_o as_o step_n to_o ascend_v by_o they_o to_o a_o high_a &_o pure_a love_n of_o god_n in_o and_o for_o they_o who_o be_v beauty_n itself_o but_o as_o for_o imperfect_a &_o sensual_a person_n it_o will_v be_v unlawful_a &_o a_o tempt_a of_o god_n to_o give_v a_o free_a &_o deliberate_a scope_n to_o their_o love_n of_o other_o special_o of_o different_a sex_n for_o the_o regard_n of_o beauty_n since_o we_o know_v it_o will_v powerful_o withdraw_v their_o affection_n from_o god_n &_o fix_v they_o on_o creature_n after_o the_o foul_a manner_n therefore_o the_o necessary_a care_n of_o ourselves_o require_v that_o we_o shall_v not_o so_o much_o as_o look_v staved_o &_o fix_o on_o the_o tentation_n of_o beauty_n much_o less_o favour_n the_o attraction_n of_o it_o 19_o before_o we_o conclude_v this_o so_o necessary_a a_o point_n concern_v charity_n some_o what_o be_v to_o be_v say_v touch_v the_o most_o christian_n duty_n of_o love_n to_o our_o enemy_n true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n will_v not_o permit_v we_o to_o exercise_v enmity_n towards_o any_o person_n in_o the_o least_o degree_n since_o charity_n be_v to_o be_v universal_o extend_v to_o all_o but_o enemy_n i_o call_v those_o that_o be_v in_o their_o nature_n averse_a from_o we_o or_o incense_v by_o some_o provocation_n or_o that_o be_v indeed_o enemy_n to_o our_o holy_a profession_n or_o that_o will_v draw_v we_o to_o sin_n etc._n etc._n 20._o as_o for_o these_o latter_a sort_n of_o enemy_n they_o be_v indeed_o true_o such_o and_o their_o action_n we_o must_v abhor_v &_o also_o with_o discretion_n avoid_v their_o company_n but_o we_o must_v not_o hate_v their_o person_n nor_o be_v want_v in_o any_o office_n of_o charity_n towards_o they_o when_o occasion_n be_v offer_v 21._o but_o touch_v the_o former_a sort_n of_o those_o that_o as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v hope_v without_o a_o utter_a breach_n of_o charity_n do_v in_o external_a matter_n do_v ill_a office_n to_o we_o or_o be_v contrary_a to_o our_o design_n such_o we_o ought_v to_o esteem_v as_o indeed_o our_o friend_n &_o perhaps_o if_o we_o regard_v the_o profit_n of_o our_o soul_n we_o can_v less_o spare_v they_o than_o those_o we_o call_v our_o most_o officious_a friend_n who_o do_v but_o flatter_v or_o nourish_v self-love_n in_o us._n it_o be_v only_o as_o to_o the_o feel_n of_o nature_n that_o we_o esteem_v such_o to_o be_v enemy_n but_o real_o we_o be_v to_o behave_v ourselves_o towards_o they_o as_o god_n instrument_n for_o our_o great_a good_a yea_o &_o as_o far_o as_o prudence_n will_v permit_v we_o be_v to_o judge_v &_o believe_v that_o they_o love_v we_o &_o intend_v our_o good_a in_o thing_n that_o they_o do_v cross_v to_o our_o nature_n 22._o now_o till_o we_o come_v to_o a_o perfect_a simplicity_n of_o thought_n which_o will_v not_o be_v till_o we_o approach_v to_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n we_o must_v be_v careful_a neither_o by_o word_n nor_o deed_n to_o procure_v they_o the_o least_o harm_n in_o any_o kind_n no_o not_o so_o much_o as_o in_o thought_n to_o wish_v it_o they_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o must_v love_v they_o still_o &_o principal_o for_o this_o because_o god_n love_v they_o and_o desire_v their_o salvation_n which_o it_o be_v to_o be_v hope_v he_o will_v effectual_o procure_v 23._o but_o to_o do_v a_o office_n so_o necessary_a yet_o withal_o so_o contrary_a to_o the_o inclination_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n a_o great_a measure_n of_o grace_n be_v requisite_a the_o which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v have_v without_o answerable_a efficacious_a internal_a prayer_n serious_o pursue_v the_o which_o join_v with_o good_a
herself_o in_o the_o point_n of_o gluttony_n and_o the_o main_a mischief_n of_o the_o tentation_n be_v prevent_v when_o we_o be_v come_v to_o cast_v of_o the_o habitual_a affection_n to_o eat_v &_o drink_v especial_o to_o feast_v the_o which_o bring_v many_o inconvenience_n to_o a_o internal_a liver_n as_o 1._o loss_n of_o time_n 2._o peril_n of_o intemperance_n &_o other_o misbehaviour_n 3._o hurtful_a distraction_n 4._o indisposition_n to_o prayer_n 5._o intemperance_n likewise_o in_o another_o use_n of_o the_o tongue_n to_o wit_n talk_v etc._n etc._n 4._o imperfect_a soul_n therefore_o must_v make_v it_o their_o care_n in_o refection_n to_o avoid_v these_o special_a defect_n to_o wit_n eat_v or_o drink_v 1._o too_o much_o 2._o with_o too_o great_a earnestness_n 3._o too_o hasty_o prevent_v the_o due_a time_n 4._o delicate_o 5._o with_o a_o precedent_a studiousnes_n to_o provide_v please_a meat_n etc._n etc._n in_o respect_n of_o the_o two_o first_o quality_n or_o defect_n such_o soul_n may_v happen_v to_o offend_v who_o yet_o in_o a_o good_a measure_n have_v attain_a to_o a_o spiritual_a disesteem_v &_o neglect_v of_o those_o thing_n that_o please_v sensuality_n for_o they_o on_o occasion_n may_v be_v tempt_v to_o eat_v with_o some_o excess_n and_o ardour_n but_o rare_o do_v such_o offend_v in_o the_o follow_a quality_n 5._o now_o the_o mark_v by_o which_o a_o soul_n may_v discern_v whether_o she_o have_v in_o she_o a_o disaffection_n to_o sensual_a pleasure_n be_v 1._o if_o her_o chief_a delight_n &_o esteem_v be_v in_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n &_o that_o she_o diligent_o pursue_v they_o 2._o if_o she_o seek_v not_o after_o nor_o willing_o admit_v extraordinary_a feast_n 3._o if_o be_v alone_o she_o do_v not_o entertain_v herself_o with_o the_o thought_n of_o such_o thing_n nor_o talk_v of_o they_o with_o gust_n 4._o if_o when_o she_o be_v force_v to_o take_v refection_n she_o take_v they_o as_o of_o necessity_n &_o duty_n 5._o if_o she_o can_v be_v content_a so_o that_o god_n will_v be_v such_o to_o be_v deprive_v of_o all_o thing_n that_o may_v please_v taste_n etc._n etc._n 6._o in_o case_n that_o necessary_a civility_n shall_v oblige_v a_o spiritual_a person_n to_o be_v present_a at_o a_o feast_n he_o may_v do_v well_o to_o be_v watchful_a over_o himself_o at_o the_o beginning_n and_o this_o he_o may_v the_o more_o easy_o do_v because_o than_o other_o being_n more_o eager_a to_o their_o meat_n will_v less_o mark_v he_o and_o to_o entertain_v the_o time_n which_o be_v ordinary_o long_a let_v he_o choose_v such_o meat_n as_o be_v the_o light_a &_o of_o the_o easy_a digestion_n for_o so_o do_v he_o may_v both_o seem_v to_o avoid_v singularity_n in_o abstain_v more_o than_o other_o &_o yet_o in_o effect_n eat_v far_o less_o in_o a_o word_n let_v he_o go_v thither_o with_o a_o mind_n &_o affection_n to_o abstinence_n &_o retain_v such_o affection_n 7._o this_o one_o unavoidable_a misery_n there_o be_v in_o eat_v &_o drink_v how_o temperate_o soever_o that_o a_o soul_n for_o such_o a_o time_n &_o for_o some_o space_n afterward_o be_v force_v to_o descend_v from_o that_o height_n of_o spirit_n that_o she_o have_v attain_a to_o by_o virtue_n of_o her_o precedent_a recollection_n so_o that_o if_o before_o she_o have_v a_o sight_n &_o experimental_a perception_n that_o god_n be_v all_o &_o herself_n nothing_o she_o will_v afterward_o have_v no_o other_o sight_n of_o this_o but_o her_o ordinary_a sight_n of_o faith_n by_o reason_n that_o her_o spirit_n be_v more_o active_a &_o her_o internal_a sense_n fill_v with_o image_n &_o vapour_n 8._o yet_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o abridge_v herself_o of_o a_o necessary_a quantity_n in_o refection_n for_o her_o prayer_n sake_n or_o other_o internal_a exercise_n for_o that_o will_v for_o a_o long_a time_n after_o do_v more_o harm_n to_o the_o spirit_n by_o too_o much_o enfeeble_v the_o body_n neither_o be_v she_o to_o judge_v that_o she_o have_v offend_v by_o excess_n because_o she_o find_v a_o heaviness_n and_o perhaps_o some_o indigestion_n for_o some_o space_n after_o refection_n for_o this_o may_v proceed_v from_o that_o debility_n of_o complexion_n which_o ordinary_o attend_v a_o spiritual_a life_n since_o as_o s._n hildegardis_n say_v the_o love_n of_o god_n do_v not_o usual_o dwell_v in_o robustious_a body_n 9_o it_o be_v not_o our_o petty_a fail_n through_o frailty_n or_o ignorance_n and_o much_o loss_n our_o suppose_a fail_n judge_v so_o by_o our_o scrupulosity_n that_o can_v cause_n god_n to_o be_v avert_v from_o we_o or_o that_o will_v hinder_v our_o union_n with_o he_o for_o for_o such_o defect_n we_o shall_v be_v attoan_v with_o god_n in_o our_o next_o recollection_n or_o it_o may_v be_v soon_o but_o those_o be_v indeed_o prejudicial_a defect_n which_o proceed_v from_o a_o settle_a affection_n to_o sensual_a object_n 10._o to_o correct_v the_o vice_n of_o eagerne_n in_o eat_v abbot_n isacius_n advise_v his_o monk_n that_o when_o they_o stretch_v forth_o their_o hand_n for_o the_o receive_n of_o their_o meat_n or_o drink_v they_o shall_v do_v it_o with_o a_o certain_a mental_a unwillingnes_n 11._o let_v every_o one_o content_a himself_o with_o what_o god_n by_o superior_n provide_v for_o he_o account_v that_o how_o mean_a or_o course_n soever_o to_o be_v the_o very_o best_a for_o he_o &_o not_o that_o which_o can_v be_v procure_v without_o solicitude_n &_o impatience_n neither_o ought_v any_o to_o justify_v or_o excuse_v his_o impatience_n out_o of_o a_o opinion_n of_o obligation_n that_o every_o one_o have_v to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o body_n for_o the_o service_n of_o the_o spirit_n for_o the_o spirit_n be_v far_o more_o endamage_v by_o such_o impatience_n &_o solicitude_n than_o any_o thing_n they_o can_v desire_v for_o the_o body_n can_v do_v it_o good_a 12._o we_o have_v small_a reason_n to_o love_v the_o body_n for_o it_o be_v that_o which_o one_o way_n or_o other_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o almost_o all_o the_o sin_n which_o the_o soul_n commit_v to_o cherish_v therefore_o &_o satisfy_v its_o inordinate_a desire_n be_v to_o make_v provision_n for_o sin_n as_o if_o our_o natural_a corruption_n do_v not_o sufficient_o incline_v we_o thereto_o 13._o the_o infirmity_n of_o our_o body_n may_v sometime_o require_v not_o only_o healthy_a but_o also_o well_o taste_v meat_n not_o for_o the_o satisfy_n of_o our_o sensuality_n but_o the_o uphold_v of_o our_o strength_n as_o s._n augustin_n say_v in_o which_o case_n meat_n of_o good_a relish_n even_o as_o such_o may_v be_v seek_v for_o yea_o ought_v to_o be_v so_o &_o this_o for_o the_o recreate_v and_o comfort_v of_o nature_n and_o such_o corporal_a consolation_n may_v also_o have_v a_o good_a effect_n upon_o the_o spirit_n but_o where_o no_o such_o necessity_n be_v to_o seek_v for_o such_o meat_n be_v against_o the_o rule_n of_o religious_a temperance_n and_o even_o during_o such_o necessity_n to_o seek_v they_o either_o with_o solicitude_n or_o so_o as_o may_v be_v prejudicial_a to_o the_o community_n be_v contrary_a to_o religious_a poverty_n &_o resignation_n 14._o as_o many_o defect_n &_o hindrance_n to_o spiritual_a progress_n do_v flow_v by_o occasion_n of_o refection_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a to_o wellminded_n soul_n it_o may_v be_v the_o occasion_n of_o some_o advantage_n for_o their_o progress_n in_o spirit_n for_o 1._o it_o oblige_v a_o soul_n to_o watch_n &_o pray_v that_o she_o be_v not_o overcome_v by_o the_o tentation_n 2._o it_o may_v give_v occasion_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o patience_n in_o case_n of_o the_o want_n of_o thing_n contentful_a to_o nature_n as_o likewise_o of_o temperance_n in_o the_o use_n of_o they_o 3._o the_o experience_n of_o our_o frequent_a excess_n beyond_o true_a necessity_n may_v afford_v great_a matter_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o humility_n 4._o by_o the_o mean_n of_o resection_n there_o be_v give_v to_o soul_n certain_a pausing_n &_o diversion_n from_o spiritual_a working_n necessary_a to_o enable_v they_o make_v good_a use_n thereof_o to_o work_v afterward_o more_o vigorous_o &_o intense_o 15._o vix_fw-la perfectus_fw-la discernit_fw-la etc._n etc._n sâ—ith_n s._n gregory_n a_o perfect_a soul_n do_v scarce_o discern_v the_o secret_a tentation_n &_o subtle_a subreption_n of_o sensuality_n urge_v soul_n to_o take_v more_o than_o necessity_n or_o obedience_n require_v &_o the_o only_a light_n necessary_a for_o such_o discern_a come_v from_o internal_a prayer_n and_o moreover_o till_o the_o soul_n by_o prayer_n be_v raise_v above_o sensuality_n she_o can_v have_v strength_n enough_o to_o resist_v all_o the_o inordinate_a desire_n thereof_o which_o she_o do_v discern_v and_o when_o soul_n be_v arrive_v to_o perfect_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n they_o oppose_v such_o desire_n rather_o by_o neglect_v &_o forget_v the_o body_n then_o by_o
whereas_o by_o progress_n it_o gather_v such_o strength_n disorder_v the_o imagination_n disquiet_v the_o passion_n and_o corrupt_v even_o the_o judgement_n also_o that_o it_o be_v scarce_o possible_a to_o find_v a_o remedy_n 10._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o follow_a advice_n may_v be_v more_o clear_a and_o distinct_a we_o will_v sort_v they_o according_a to_o the_o several_a ground_n from_o which_o usual_o scrupulosity_n do_v proceed_v the_o which_o be_v 1._o either_o interval_n tentation_n by_o suspect_a sinful_a thought_n and_o imagination_n 2._o or_o certain_a defect_n or_o suppose_a defect_n incur_v about_o externall_n obligation_n as_o sâ—yâ—ng_v the_o office_n fast_v etc._n etc._n in_o both_o whiâ—h_o case_n there_o be_v a_o strong_a suspicion_n of_o sin_n incur_v and_o a_o uncertainty_n of_o what_o heynousnes_n that_o sin_n in_o from_o whenâ—e_o follow_v unquiet_a examination_n scrupulous_a confession_n often_o repeat_v &c_n &c_n first_o therefore_o we_o will_v treat_v of_o fear_n &_o scrupulosity_n arise_v from_o inward_a tentation_n by_o ill_a imagination_n or_o thought_n and_o afterward_o of_o the_o other_o chap._n ix_o §_o 1._o of_o scrupulosity_n arise_v from_o certain_a inward_a tentation_n §_o 2._o 3._o tentation_n be_v not_o in_o themselves_o ill_a but_o rather_o a_o mark_n of_o god_n love_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v seek_v §_o 4._o internal_a tentation_n very_a purify_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o of_o inward_a tentation_n rest_v only_o in_o the_o mind_n and_o advice_n against_o they_o §_o 9_o likewise_o touch_v those_o that_o cause_n also_o effect_n and_o motion_n in_o corporal_a nature_n §_o 10._o 11._o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o prayer_n be_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v omit_v for_o tentation_n as_o be_v the_o best_a and_o secure_a remedy_n in_o as_o much_o as_o all_o tentation_n be_v most_o efficacious_o and_o perfect_o resist_v by_o conversion_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o love_n to_o god_n 1._o the_o special_a kind_n of_o inward_a tentation_n which_o do_v ordinary_o afford_v matter_n of_o fear_n &_o scrupulosity_n to_o wellminded_n tender_a soul_n be_v first_o either_o such_o ill_a imagination_n or_o thought_n as_o rest_v in_o the_o mind_n alone_o without_o any_o other_o outward_a effect_n such_o be_v thought_n 1._o of_o infidelity_n 2._o of_o blasphemy_n 3._o of_o despair_n etc._n etc._n or_o second_o such_o as_o withal_o have_v or_o may_v cause_v a_o alteration_n in_o the_o body_n such_o be_v thought_n of_o impurity_n anger_n etc._n etc._n 2._o now_o concern_v tentation_n in_o general_a the_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v no_o sin_n to_o have_v they_o yea_o being_n send_v we_o by_o god_n they_o be_v mean_v for_o our_o good_a and_o to_o give_v we_o occasion_n to_o merit_v by_o they_o and_o those_o which_o god_n send_v we_o be_v the_o most_o proper_a for_o us._n for_o if_o they_o be_v in_o our_o own_o choice_n we_o shall_v choose_v least_o and_o last_o of_o all_o those_o that_o be_v most_o fit_a to_o humble_v we_o and_o to_o withdraw_v our_o affection_n from_o ourselves_o and_o creature_n so_o that_o the_o more_o displease_v to_o we_o and_o afflict_v that_o any_o tentation_n be_v the_o more_o profitable_a be_v they_o let_v none_o therefore_o be_v dismay_v at_o the_o approach_n of_o tentation_n but_o since_o self-love_n can_v be_v cure_v but_o by_o application_n of_o thing_n contrary_a thereto_o let_v we_o accept_v of_o they_o as_o a_o special_a gift_n of_o god_n assure_v ourselves_o that_o it_o will_v be_v perilous_a to_o be_v long_o without_o they_o and_o if_o we_o can_v clear_o see_v how_o our_o present_a tentation_n can_v turn_v to_o our_o profit_n we_o ought_v to_o content_v ourselves_o that_o god_n see_v it_o &_o otherwise_o he_o who_o be_v infinite_a wisdom_n and_o goodness_n will_v never_o have_v permit_v they_o to_o befall_v we_o therefore_o let_v faith_n supply_v knowledge_n or_o curiosity_n 3._o nevertheless_o we_o must_v not_o voluntary_o seek_v tentation_n for_o qui_fw-la amat_fw-la periculum_fw-la peribit_fw-la in_o eo_fw-la he_o that_o love_v danger_n shall_v perish_v therein_o say_v the_o wiseman_n god_n will_v not_o deny_v spiritual_a strength_n to_o resist_v &_o make_v good_a use_n of_o tentation_n that_o by_o his_o providence_n befall_v we_o yea_o although_o it_o be_v by_o some_o precedent_a fault_n &_o negligence_n of_o we_o that_o they_o befall_v we_o but_o he_o have_v make_v no_o promise_n to_o secure_v we_o in_o a_o danger_n into_o which_o we_o voluntary_o run_v 4._o more_o particular_o internal_a tentation_n be_v more_o beneficial_a and_o purify_n and_o they_o do_v more_o profound_o humble_v we_o then_o do_v outward_a pain_n or_o persecution_n 1._o because_o they_o discover_v unto_o we_o not_o the_o malice_n of_o other_o but_o our_o own_o sinful_a nature_n prone_a of_o themselves_o to_o all_o abomination_n 2._o and_o by_o they_o we_o come_v to_o be_v deliver_v not_o from_o other_o creature_n but_o from_o ourselves_o in_o which_o separation_n our_o chief_a &_o last_o conquer_v difficulty_n consist_v 3._o they_o send_v we_o for_o remedy_n to_o none_o but_o god_n for_o what_o effect_n can_v any_o assistance_n medicine_n or_o other_o help_n of_o creature_n have_v against_o our_o own_o thought_n 5._o and_o as_o for_o the_o special_a forenamed_a tentation_n a_o wellminded_n soul_n ought_v to_o consider_v that_o the_o simple_a pass_v of_o such_o thought_n or_o imagination_n in_o the_o mind_n be_v no_o sin_n at_o all_o though_o they_o shall_v rest_v there_o never_o so_o long_o without_o advertence_n but_o only_o the_o give_v a_o deliberate_a consent_n unto_o they_o neither_o be_v it_o in_o the_o power_n of_o a_o soul_n either_o to_o prevent_v or_o banish_v they_o at_o pleasure_n because_o the_o imagination_n be_v not_o so_o subject_a to_o reason_n as_o that_o it_o can_v be_v command_v to_o entertain_v no_o image_n but_o such_o as_o reason_n will_v allow_v but_o it_o be_v distemper_v according_a to_o the_o disposition_n of_o the_o humour_n and_o spirit_n in_o the_o body_n and_o sometime_o the_o devil_n also_o be_v permit_v to_o iniect_v or_o raise_v image_n to_o the_o disquiet_v of_o tender_a soul_n but_o he_o can_v force_v none_o to_o consent_v to_o the_o suggestion_n proceed_v from_o they_o 6._o there_o be_v less_o danger_n of_o consent_v unto_o tentation_n mere_o spiritual_a such_o as_o be_v thought_n of_o blasphemy_n despair_v &c_n &c_n and_o consequent_o less_o likelihood_n of_o scrupulosity_n from_o a_o suspicion_n of_o such_o consent_n though_o sometime_o they_o may_v be_v so_o violent_a and_o so_o obstinate_o adhere_v that_o the_o fancy_n will_v become_v extreme_o disorder_v and_o the_o soul_n will_v think_v herself_o to_o be_v in_o a_o kind_n of_o hell_n where_o there_o be_v nothing_o but_o blaspheme_v and_o hate_v of_o god_n 7._o her_o best_a remedy_n be_v quiet_o to_o turn_v her_o thought_n some_o other_o way_n and_o rather_o neglect_v then_o force_v herself_o to_o combat_v they_o with_o contrary_a thought_n for_o by_o neglect_v of_o they_o the_o impression_n that_o they_o make_v in_o the_o imagination_n will_v be_v diminish_v she_o may_v do_v well_o also_o by_o word_n or_o outward_a gesture_n to_o signify_v her_o renounce_n and_o detestation_n of_o they_o as_o in_o a_o tentation_n of_o blasphemy_n let_v she_o pronounce_v word_n and_o express_a posture_n of_o adoration_n of_o god_n praise_n love_v &c_n &c_n let_v she_o be_v also_o the_o more_o diligent_a in_o frequent_v the_o choir_n continue_v more_o careful_o in_o posture_n of_o humility_n before_o he_o and_o do_v thus_o let_v she_o banish_v all_o suspicion_n of_o have_v consent_v as_o be_v moral_o impossible_a 8._o certain_a it_o be_v that_o how_o troublesome_a &_o horrible_a soever_o such_o tentation_n may_v seem_v to_o be_v yet_o they_o be_v quiet_o resist_v or_o rather_o neglect_v do_v wonderful_o purify_v the_o soul_n establish_v divine_a love_n most_o firm_o and_o deep_o in_o the_o spirit_n moreov_a by_o occasion_n of_o they_o the_o superior_a soul_n be_v enable_v to_o transcend_v all_o the_o disorder_n and_o tumult_n in_o inferior_a nature_n adhere_v to_o god_n during_o the_o great_a contradiction_n of_o sensuality_n 9_o as_o for_o the_o other_o sort_n of_o interiour_n tentation_n which_o be_v more_o gross_a cause_v oft_o disorderly_a motion_n and_o effect_n in_o corporal_a nature_n it_o will_v be_v more_o difficult_a to_o persuade_v timorous_a soul_n that_o they_o have_v not_o consent_v both_o by_o reason_n that_o such_o imagination_n be_v more_o pertinacious_a and_o stick_v to_o the_o corporal_a humour_n and_o spirit_n and_o also_o because_o inferior_a nature_n be_v powerful_o incline_v to_o a_o like_n of_o they_o in_o somuch_o as_o that_o real_a effect_n &_o alteration_n may_v be_v wrought_v in_o the_o body_n before_o that_o reason_n be_v full_o awake_a to_o resist_v they_o yea_o and_o after_o the_o resistance_n make_v
against_o conscience_n or_o what_o may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v doubtful_a account_v every_o thing_n that_o they_o fear_v without_o be_v able_a to_o give_v any_o tolerable_a reason_n of_o their_o fear_n to_o be_v against_o conscience_n and_o to_o be_v doubtful_a it_o be_v therefore_o the_o spiritual_a director_n or_o experience_a confessor_n only_o that_o be_v to_o be_v judge_n of_o these_o thing_n who_o have_v no_o interest_n at_o all_o in_o the_o business_n but_o the_o good_a of_o his_o penitent_n soul_n who_o can_v judge_v without_o passion_n who_o be_v appoint_v by_o god_n to_o be_v judge_n and_o who_o unfaithful_a deal_n the_o penitent_n have_v no_o reason_n to_o suspect_v 5._o there_o be_v no_o possible_a way_n to_o be_v rid_v from_o scruple_n beside_o the_o have_v immediate_a recourse_n to_o god_n by_o humble_a resign_v prayer_n but_o a_o entire_a indispensable_a obedience_n to_o prudent_a confessor_n proceed_v according_a to_o these_o or_o the_o like_a ground_n and_o instruction_n according_a to_o which_o if_o such_o tender_a soul_n take_v the_o courage_n to_o practice_v notwithstanding_o any_o fear_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n they_o will_v find_v their_o fear_n to_o decrease_v whereas_o if_o they_o neglect_v or_o obstinate_o refuse_v to_o put_v they_o in_o practice_n their_o fear_n will_v not_o only_o grow_v far_o more_o dangerous_a but_o they_o will_v become_v inexcusable_a before_o almighty_a god_n and_o contract_v the_o heinous_a sin_n of_o disobedience_n ingratitude_n and_o wilful_a obstinacy_n &_o resistance_n against_o the_o light_n which_o god_n have_v give_v they_o 6._o but_o withal_o they_o must_v know_v that_o they_o will_v never_o have_v sufficient_a strength_n and_o grace_n to_o obey_v against_o passion_n except_o they_o serious_o practice_v internal_a prayer_n the_o which_o alone_o will_v make_v their_o obedience_n to_o become_v by_o custom_n far_o more_o easy_a and_o also_o free_v from_o that_o horror_n which_o at_o the_o first_o they_o will_v feel_v in_o sensitive_a nature_n 7._o neither_o ought_v they_o to_o suspect_v that_o their_o confessor_n set_v over_o they_o by_o god_n for_o their_o good_a do_v not_o understand_v their_o case_n aright_o true_a it_o be_v they_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o pain_n they_o suffer_v no_o more_o then_o corporal_a physician_n do_v their_o patient_n but_o yet_o they_o know_v the_o cause_n of_o it_o far_o better_a than_o themselves_o proceed_v by_o a_o supernatural_a light_n not_o cloud_v by_o passion_n and_o why_o shall_v they_o pretend_v to_o know_v the_o cause_n be_v ignorant_a of_o they_o what_o interest_n be_v likely_a to_o corrupt_v their_o judgement_n will_v they_o for_o no_o reward_n or_o gain_v incur_v the_o displeasure_n of_o god_n 8._o notwithstanding_o so_o subtle_a such_o soul_n be_v to_o their_o own_o prejudice_n that_o though_o they_o shall_v yield_v that_o their_o confessor_n know_v their_o past_a state_n yet_o they_o see_v some_o new_a circumstance_n which_o be_v either_o forget_v or_o they_o doubt_v so_o the_o which_o may_v perhaps_o alter_v the_o whole_a case_n as_o likewise_o every_o new_a sin_n or_o defect_n have_v somewhat_o in_o it_o to_o their_o seem_n different_a from_o the_o former_a by_o which_o they_o make_v a_o shift_n to_o escape_v from_o obedience_n yet_o they_o must_v know_v that_o not_o all_o these_o shift_n will_v excuse_v they_o before_o god_n 9_o yea_o they_o ought_v to_o consider_v that_o though_o indeed_o it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o confessor_n shall_v happen_v to_o be_v mistake_v notwithstanding_o the_o penitent_a practise_v bona_fw-la fide_fw-la according_a to_o his_o order_n in_o a_o point_n of_o this_o nature_n about_o confession_n which_o be_v not_o a_o moral_a precept_n shall_v commit_v no_o sin_n nor_o incur_v the_o least_o danger_n by_o it_o yea_o being_n a_o act_n of_o obedience_n for_o god_n sake_n and_o in_o opposition_n to_o natural_a passion_n it_o shall_v be_v a_o occasion_n of_o merit_n to_o they_o so_o that_o though_o the_o sin_n suspect_v by_o they_o be_v indeed_o mortal_a yet_o he_o judge_v otherwise_o they_o will_v not_o be_v oblige_v to_o confess_v they_o 10._o but_o it_o be_v wonderful_a to_o see_v in_o soul_n very_o distrustful_a of_o themselves_o in_o all_o other_o matter_n such_o a_o obstinate_a selfe-iudgment_n in_o this_o that_o they_o will_v never_o be_v persuade_v that_o they_o be_v scrupulous_a though_o their_o wit_n be_v almost_o perish_v by_o scrupulosity_n for_o if_o this_o be_v once_o admit_v plain_a reason_n will_v convince_v they_o that_o they_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v their_o own_o judge_n as_o likewise_o in_o soul_n otherwise_o very_o innocent_a humble_a and_o most_o pliable_a to_o obedience_n the_o pertinacious_a disobedience_n in_o this_o point_n of_o abstain_v from_o confess_v or_o renew_v confession_n of_o thing_n forbid_v they_o to_o be_v confess_v be_v very_o strange_a so_o that_o against_o the_o command_n of_o their_o present_a confessor_n and_o the_o advice_n of_o all_o the_o most_o learned_a doctor_n they_o will_v persist_v in_o their_o reluctance_n and_o if_o their_o confessor_n will_v not_o admit_v they_o they_o will_v forbear_v no_o mean_n to_o find_v out_o other_o though_o whole_o unacquainted_a with_o their_o state_n to_o hear_v their_o scrupulosity_n and_o what_o other_o ground_n can_v there_o be_v of_o such_o disorder_n but_o only_a self-love_n deep_o root_v in_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o ofttimes_o the_o suggestion_n of_o the_o devil_n to_o which_o such_o soul_n by_o reason_n of_o their_o disorder_a imagination_n and_o passion_n be_v miserable_o expose_v they_o have_v rather_o confess_v their_o virtue_n for_o fault_n as_o their_o have_v resist_v their_o fear_n in_o compliance_n with_o obedience_n than_o their_o real_o great_a fault_n which_o be_v self_n judgement_n and_o disobedience_n 11._o a_o scrupulous_a fearful_a soul_n have_v be_v command_v to_o forbear_v examination_n and_o confession_n of_o such_o particular_n as_o do_v cause_n unquietnes_n in_o she_o when_o she_o come_v to_o put_v this_o in_o practice_n a_o double_a fear_n will_v present_v itself_o to_o she_o the_o one_o of_o disobey_v her_o confessor_n and_o the_o other_o of_o go_v against_o her_o natural_a judgement_n which_o be_v contrary_a to_o her_o confessor_n but_o she_o ought_v to_o consider_v that_o the_o former_a fear_n have_v nothing_o of_o nature_n in_o it_o yea_o that_o it_o contradict_v nature_n in_o its_o most_o sensible_a part_n and_o therefore_o be_v far_o more_o worthy_a to_o take_v place_n as_o for_o the_o fear_n of_o go_v against_o her_o own_o judgement_n it_o proceed_v whole_o and_o only_o from_o nature_n self-love_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o be_v ride_v of_o her_o present_a pain_n that_o the_o memory_n of_o her_o fault_n cause_n in_o she_o or_o the_o suggestion_n of_o the_o devil_n urge_v she_o to_o disobedience_n therefore_o if_o she_o can_v expel_v this_o fear_n out_o of_o sensitive_a nature_n she_o must_v accept_v it_o as_o a_o pain_n but_o withal_o contradict_v it_o as_o a_o tentation_n 12._o she_o ought_v to_o assure_v herself_o that_o more_o harm_n come_v to_o she_o and_o incomparable_o great_a impediment_n in_o her_o exercise_n of_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n by_o indiscreet_a confession_n or_o examination_n make_v mere_o to_o satisfy_v scrupulosity_n then_o by_o all_o the_o defect_n that_o she_o will_v confess_v the_o which_o be_v general_o incur_v out_o of_o frailty_n do_v far_o less_o estrange_v she_o from_o god_n than_o such_o confession_n do_v by_o which_o she_o be_v habituate_v in_o self-will_a selfe-iudgment_n and_o servile_a fear_n all_o which_o be_v the_o more_o perilous_a in_o as_o much_o as_o they_o have_v a_o pretence_n of_o duty_n to_o god_n and_o to_o the_o order_n of_o his_o church_n as_o also_o of_o humility_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o receive_v benefit_n by_o the_o sacrament_n etc._n etc._n 13._o common_a reason_n will_v dictate_v that_o it_o be_v most_o unfit_a that_o any_o one_o shall_v be_v judge_n of_o his_o own_o state_n just_a at_o a_o time_n when_o a_o tentation_n or_o violent_a fear_n be_v actual_o predominant_a the_o which_o do_v put_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o strange_a confusion_n and_o darkness_n what_o a_o folly_n therefore_o &_o presumption_n will_v it_o be_v for_o a_o woman_n ignonorant_a passionate_a and_o fearful_a to_o challenge_v the_o office_n of_o a_o judge_n in_o this_o case_n and_o to_o think_v to_o regulate_v the_o judge_n that_o sit_v in_o god_n seat_n 14._o let_v therefore_o fearful_a soul_n that_o be_v forbid_v the_o usual_a way_n of_o curious_a examination_n of_o conscience_n &_o nice_a confession_n whensoever_o any_o scruple_n or_o suspicion_n concern_v a_o mortal_a sin_n come_v into_o their_o mind_n that_o will_v urge_v they_o to_o run_v for_o ease_n to_o confession_n or_o that_o will_v affright_v they_o from_o communicate_v let_v they_o i_o say_v content_v themselves_o with_o ask_v their_o own_o conscience_n in_o one_o glance_n of_o their_o mind_n do_v
i_o certain_o know_v the_o matter_n of_o this_o fear_n to_o have_v be_v a_o mortal_a sin_n and_o that_o it_o be_v real_o commit_v and_o never_o confess_v in_o any_o sort_n defective_o or_o exact_o and_o if_o their_o conscience_n do_v not_o answer_v that_o they_o be_v most_o certain_a of_o this_o they_o may_v not_o only_o secure_o judge_v that_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a but_o they_o be_v oblige_v under_o sin_n to_o abstain_v from_o confession_n in_o case_n they_o have_v be_v so_o command_v and_o to_o proceed_v to_o communicate_v for_o it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a that_o such_o tender_a soul_n shall_v commit_v a_o mortal_a sin_n but_o without_o any_o examination_n it_o will_v appear_v evident_o to_o be_v mortal_a 15._o this_o way_n of_o selfe-examination_n i_o be_v warrant_v by_o learned_a author_n do_v serious_o recommend_v to_o those_o soul_n that_o find_v that_o a_o punctual_a examination_n doch_fw-ge destroy_n the_o quiet_a of_o their_o mind_n so_o that_o if_o after_o one_o short_a selfe-questioning_a they_o do_v not_o resolut_o and_o positive_o determine_v that_o they_o have_v deliberate_o consent_v to_o a_o tentation_n and_o commit_v a_o sin_n unquestionable_o mortal_a let_v they_o resolve_v never_o after_o to_o trouble_v their_o thought_n with_o it_o but_o if_o they_o shall_v press_v they_o to_o a_o re-examination_n let_v they_o neglect_v they_o and_o consider_v they_o as_o pure_a tentation_n 16._o such_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o esteem_v that_o a_o fear_n or_o suspicion_n that_o any_o thing_n be_v a_o sin_n or_o mortal_a can_v be_v sufficient_a to_o make_v the_o case_n to_o be_v doubtful_a for_o a_o doubt_n be_v when_o two_o opinion_n be_v represent_v to_o the_o mind_n and_o the_o contrary_a reason_n for_o each_o be_v so_o even_o and_o equal_a that_o the_o judgement_n can_v determine_v itself_o to_o assent_v to_o either_o now_o a_o firm_a assent_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v a_o violent_a fear_n of_o the_o contrary_a at_o the_o same_o time_n and_o a_o scrupulous_a person_n can_v ofttimes_o give_v any_o other_o reason_n or_o account_v of_o her_o fear_n but_o that_o for_o aught_o she_o know_v the_o matter_n be_v according_a to_o her_o fear_n 17._o among_o other_o subject_n of_o scruple_n one_o be_v a_o doubt_n in_o such_o soul_n whether_o they_o have_v true_a contrition_n for_o their_o fault_n or_o no._n whereas_o if_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n that_o hinder_v their_o sorrow_n from_o be_v true_a contrition_n it_o be_v the_o excess_n of_o servile_a fear_n mix_v with_o it_o which_o they_o wilful_o nourish_v with_o their_o scrupulosity_n but_o however_o consider_v they_o be_v suppose_v to_o practice_v internal_a prayer_n in_o such_o manner_n as_o they_o be_v able_a there_o be_v hardly_o any_o doubt_n to_o be_v make_v but_o that_o they_o have_v the_o true_a love_n of_o god_n which_o make_v sorrow_n for_o sin_n to_o be_v true_a contrition_n the_o which_o may_v be_v perform_v either_o direct_o by_o frame_v a_o efficacious_a act_n of_o sorrow_v and_o detestation_n of_o their_o sin_n as_o offensive_a to_o god_n and_o for_o his_o love_n or_o only_o virtual_o yet_o efficacious_o by_o produce_v a_o act_n of_o pure_a love_n to_o god_n for_o thereby_o they_o do_v real_o avert_v themselves_o from_o whatsoever_o do_v offend_v he_o or_o be_v contrary_n to_o such_o love_n as_o sin_n be_v 18._o and_o from_o hence_o may_v appear_v the_o great_a security_n that_o a_o soul_n have_v which_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n because_o every_o act_n of_o love_n or_o resignation_n perform_v pure_o for_o god_n do_v restore_v a_o soul_n to_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n in_o case_n that_o by_o any_o precedent_a sin_n she_o have_v fall_v from_o that_o state_n and_o if_o she_o have_v not_o it_o do_v advance_v and_o establish_v she_o the_o more_o in_o grace_n 19_o there_o be_v not_o therefore_o a_o more_o assure_a general_a remedy_n against_o scrupulosity_n and_o all_o such_o inordinate_a fear_n than_o constancy_n in_o prayer_n this_o alone_a will_v produce_v a_o courage_n to_o despise_v such_o fear_n whensoever_o they_o will_v hinder_v a_o soul_n from_o perform_v obedience_n to_o the_o order_n of_o her_o spiritual_a director_n 20._o the_o security_n and_o necessity_n of_o which_o obedience_n as_o likewise_o the_o culpableness_n and_o danger_n of_o proceed_v according_a to_o the_o suggestion_n of_o fear_n a_o devout_a soul_n may_v evident_o collect_v from_o hence_o viz._n by_o observe_v that_o she_o never_o disobeye_n in_o virtue_n of_o light_n obtain_v by_o prayer_n the_o which_o always_o dictate_v obedience_n and_o renounce_v she_o own_o judgement_n and_o contradict_v her_o fear_n to_o she_o and_o on_o the_o contrary_a that_o she_o be_v tempt_v to_o transgress_v the_o order_n of_o her_o confessor_n only_o at_o the_o time_n when_o fear_n be_v so_o violent_a upon_o she_o and_o make_v so_o deep_a a_o impression_n of_o her_o suppose_a fault_n in_o her_o mind_n that_o she_o can_v then_o pray_v with_o resignation_n and_o believe_v that_o then_o to_o obey_v her_o confessor_n will_v be_v to_o go_v against_o she_o own_o knowledge_n her_o security_n therefore_o must_v come_v from_o prayer_n to_o which_o her_o humble_a obedience_n will_v dispose_v she_o and_o on_o the_o contrary_a scrupulous_a fear_n will_v render_v she_o utter_o unfit_a therefore_o soul_n which_o wilful_o nourish_v their_o fear_n and_o scruple_n by_o frequent_a unpermit_v confession_n have_v very_o much_o to_o answer_n for_o before_o almighty_a god_n for_o their_o wilful_a plunge_v themselves_o into_o a_o state_n which_o make_v a_o perfect_a union_n with_o god_n impossible_a thereby_o defeat_v the_o whole_a design_n of_o a_o religious_a internal_a life_n as_o also_o for_o forsake_v the_o way_n of_o obedience_n which_o almost_o in_o all_o possible_a case_n be_v most_o full_a of_o security_n 21._o it_o be_v far_o from_o my_o purpose_n to_o deter_v soul_n from_o frequent_a confession_n even_o of_o venial_a sin_n when_o they_o find_v such_o confession_n profitable_a to_o they_o and_o help_n to_o their_o amendment_n but_o otherwise_o if_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o such_o confession_n they_o endanger_v themselves_o to_o run_v into_o mortal_a sin_n of_o the_o high_a nature_n as_o desperation_n or_o a_o wilful_a renounce_n of_o all_o way_n of_o piety_n through_o the_o horror_n arise_v from_o their_o ignorance_n &_o incapacity_n to_o distinguish_v between_o mortal_a &_o venial_a sin_n then_o sure_o it_o be_v better_a for_o they_o to_o make_v use_n of_o other_o way_n appoint_v by_o god_n for_o the_o expiate_a &_o purge_v of_o venial_a sin_n such_o as_o be_v say_v our_o lord_n prayer_n act_n of_o humiliation_n or_o contrition_n give_v of_o alm_n devout_a take_n of_o holy_a water_n etc._n etc._n and_o if_o they_o be_v desirous_a in_o some_o good_a measure_n to_o observe_v the_o ordinary_a time_n of_o confession_n they_o may_v content_v themselves_o with_o express_v some_o such_o fault_n as_o they_o can_v with_o assurance_n and_o without_o disquietness_n declare_v and_o all_o other_o fault_n may_v be_v involue_v in_o some_o general_a phrase_n or_o expression_n 22._o if_o it_o be_v object_v that_o by_o practise_v according_a to_o these_o instruction_n such_o soul_n will_v find_v nothing_o new_a to_o confess_v and_o so_o will_v be_v deprive_v of_o the_o blessing_n &_o comfort_n of_o absolution_n herto_o i_o answer_n that_o it_o be_v happy_a if_o soul_n can_v find_v nothing_o expedient_a to_o be_v confess_v and_o sure_o the_o most_o effectual_a mean_n to_o bring_v they_o to_o such_o happiness_n be_v according_a to_o these_o advice_n to_o free_v they_o from_o their_o deiect_v scrupulosity_n the_o which_o as_o long_o as_o they_o remain_v little_a effect_n of_o blessing_n can_v proceed_v from_o the_o best_a exercise_n or_o use_v of_o sacrament_n we_o know_v that_o in_o ancient_a time_n innumerable_a saint_n attain_v to_o perfection_n with_o little_a or_o no_o use_n of_o confession_n consider_v their_o remotenes_n from_o place_n where_o priest_n inhabit_v by_o serious_a practice_n of_o prayer_n abstraction_n of_o life_n mortification_n &c_n &c_n which_o mean_n will_v doubtless_o have_v the_o same_o effect_n now_o and_o without_o they_o confession_n and_o communion_n though_o daily_o practise_v will_v have_v but_o small_a effect_n thereto_o now_o there_o be_v not_o in_o the_o world_n a_o mortification_n more_o effectual_a more_o purify_n and_o more_o proper_a for_o such_o soul_n then_o to_o obey_v god_n in_o their_o confessor_n contrary_a to_o their_o own_o violent_a fear_n scrupulosity_n and_o seem_a judgement_n 23._o the_o proper_a season_n of_o the_o trial_n of_o obedience_n and_o submission_n of_o scrupulous_a soul_n be_v the_o time_n of_o communicate_v because_o they_o know_v that_o there_o be_v necessary_a â—herto_o not_o only_o the_o condition_n of_o be_v free_a from_o mortal_n â—in_v but_o likewise_o that_o a_o great_a preparation_n be_v requisite_a for_o in_o all_o
22._o this_o most_o heroical_a humility_n can_v only_o be_v exercise_v in_o the_o act_n of_o contemplation_n for_o then_o only_o it_o be_v that_o a_o soul_n feel_v she_o own_o nothing_o without_o intend_v to_o reflect_v upon_o it_o at_o all_o other_o time_n she_o in_o some_o degree_n feel_v the_o false_a suppose_v be_v of_o herself_o &_o creature_n because_o it_o be_v only_o in_o actual_a pure_a prayer_n that_o the_o image_n of_o they_o be_v expel_v &_o with_o the_o image_n the_o affection_n to_o they_o also_o 23._o notwithstanding_o a_o great_a measure_n &_o proportion_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o such_o prayer_n remain_v &_o be_v operative_a also_o afterward_o out_o of_o prayer_n for_o if_o the_o soul_n do_v see_v creature_n she_o never_o see_v they_o as_o in_o themselves_o but_o only_o in_o relation_n to_o god_n &_o so_o in_o they_o humble_v herself_o to_o god_n &_o love_v god_n in_o they_o and_o if_o she_o reflect_v upon_o herself_o &_o turn_v her_o eye_n inward_a into_o her_o spirit_n desire_v to_o find_v god_n there_o there_o will_v not_o be_v any_o considerable_a imperfection_n obscurity_n or_o stain_n that_o will_v darken_v she_o view_v of_o god_n but_o she_o will_v discover_v it_o and_o most_o perfect_o hate_v it_o 24._o as_o for_o sin_n or_o imperfection_n in_o other_o though_o never_o so_o heinous_a they_o be_v no_o hindrance_n to_o her_o see_v of_o god_n because_o either_o she_o transcend_v &_o mark_v they_o not_o or_o be_v by_o their_o mean_n urge_v to_o a_o near_o &_o more_o fervent_a love_n of_o he_o for_o his_o patience_n to_o a_o great_a zeal_n for_o his_o honour_n impair_v by_o the_o sin_n of_o man_n &_o to_o a_o great_a compassion_n towards_o sinner_n 25._o but_o the_o least_o imperfection_n in_o herself_o be_v real_o a_o hindrance_n to_o her_o immediate_a union_n with_o god_n &_o perfect_a sight_n of_o he_o be_v in_o so_o great_a a_o light_n as_o she_o than_o enjoy_v perfect_o see_v &_o perfect_o abhor_v by_o she_o yea_o such_o fault_n as_o to_o her_o natural_a understanding_n former_o appear_v no_o big_a than_o moat_n do_v in_o virtue_n of_o this_o supernatural_a light_n seem_v as_o mountain_n and_o defect_n which_o she_o before_o never_o dream_v or_o imagine_v to_o be_v in_o herself_o she_o now_o see_v not_o only_o to_o be_v but_o to_o abound_v &_o bear_v great_a sway_n in_o she_o to_o this_o purpose_n say_v s._n gregory_n l._n 22._o moral_a c._n 1._o sancti_fw-la viri_fw-la quo_fw-la altiùs_fw-la apud_fw-la deum_fw-la proficiunt_fw-la eo_fw-la subtiliùs_fw-la indignos_fw-la se_fw-la deprehendunt_fw-la quia_fw-la dum_fw-la proximi_fw-la luci_fw-la fiunt_fw-la quidquid_fw-la in_o illis_fw-la latebat_fw-la inveniunt_fw-la that_o be_v holy_a man_n the_o high_a that_o they_o raise_v themselves_o approach_v to_o god_n the_o more_o clear_o do_v they_o perceive_v their_o own_o unworthines_n because_o be_v encompass_v with_o a_o pure_a light_n they_o discover_v in_o themselves_o those_o defect_n which_o before_o they_o can_v not_o see_v 26._o hence_o it_o appear_v that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o knowledge_n of_o our_o own_o nothing_o &_o the_o feel_n or_o perception_n of_o it_o the_o former_a may_v be_v get_v by_o a_o little_a meditation_n or_o by_o read_v of_o school_n divinity_n which_o teach_v &_o demonstrate_v how_o that_o of_o ourselves_o we_o be_v nothing_o but_o mere_a dependence_n on_o the_o only_a true_a be_v of_o god_n whereas_o the_o feel_n of_o our_o own_o nothing_o will_v never_o be_v attain_v by_o study_n or_o meditation_n alone_o but_o by_o the_o raise_n &_o purify_n of_o our_o soul_n by_o prayer_n the_o devil_n have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o nothingnes_n of_o creature_n in_o a_o far_o great_a perfection_n than_o any_o man_n &_o yet_o he_o have_v nothing_o at_o all_o of_o the_o feel_n now_o it_o be_v only_o the_o feel_n of_o our_o not-being_a that_o be_v true_a perfect_a humility_n as_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o feel_n of_o our_o be_v be_v pride_n 27._o now_o this_o feel_n of_o our_o not-being_a have_v two_o degree_n 1._o the_o first_o be_v in_o regard_n of_o the_o corporal_a or_o sensitive_a faculty_n to_o wit_n when_o the_o soul_n be_v so_o raise_v above_o the_o body_n &_o all_o desire_n concern_v it_o that_o it_o have_v lose_v all_o care_n &_o solicitude_n about_o it_o have_v mortify_v in_o a_o great_a measure_n all_o inferior_a passion_n this_o be_v a_o high_a degree_n of_o humility_n but_o not_o yet_o perfect_a as_o may_v appear_v plain_o by_o this_o that_o after_o a_o soul_n have_v attain_v herto_o by_o a_o passive_a union_n there_o ordinary_o follow_v the_o great_a privation_n or_o desolation_n in_o which_o she_o find_v herself_o to_o be_v yet_o full_a of_o herself_o &_o she_o own_o be_v combat_v with_o may_o rise_n &_o repugnance_n 2._o the_o second_o degree_n follow_v after_o that_o the_o say_a privation_n cease_v in_o which_o the_o soul_n exercise_v herself_o after_o a_o far_o more_o sublime_a manner_n &_o begin_v then_o to_o have_v a_o more_o perfect_a feel_n of_o her_o not-being_a consist_v in_o a_o abstraction_n from_o the_o soul_n herself_o &_o all_o her_o faculty_n &_o operation_n all_o which_o be_v so_o lose_v &_o annihilate_v in_o god_n that_o in_o her_o exercise_n of_o most_o pure_a prayer_n she_o can_v perceyve_v distinct_o any_o work_v either_o in_o the_o understanding_n or_o will_n not_o be_v able_a to_o understand_v or_o give_v a_o account_n of_o what_o she_o do_v when_o she_o pray_v 28._o the_o author_n of_o secret_n sentier_n say_v that_o soul_n which_o be_v arrive_v to_o this_o state_n of_o perfect_a union_n be_v yet_o ordinary_o permit_v by_o god_n to_o descend_v oft_o from_o their_o high_a abstraction_n into_o their_o inferior_a nature_n even_o as_o they_o be_v during_o their_o state_n of_o entrance_n into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n so_o that_o according_a to_o his_o doctrine_n during_o such_o a_o descent_n they_o must_v needs_o be_v full_a of_o the_o feel_n of_o their_o own_o be_v but_o theâ—_n say_v he_o they_o from_o this_o descent_n do_v by_o little_a &_o little_a through_o their_o internal_a exercise_n ascend_v high_a therâ—_n they_o be_v ever_o before_o and_o such_o ascent_n &_o descent_n interchangeable_o continue_v all_o their_o life_n thus_o say_v barbanzon_n perhaps_o out_o of_o experience_n of_o what_o pass_v in_o his_o own_o soul_n but_o whether_o from_o thence_o he_o have_v sufficient_a warrant_n to_o apply_v this_o observation_n so_o general_o i_o leave_v to_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o perfect_a who_o only_o can_v judge_v of_o such_o matter_n 29._o but_o alas_o these_o contemplation_n &_o consequent_o the_o say_v bless_v fruit_n of_o they_o be_v very_o rare_a &_o not_o at_o all_o in_o our_o own_o power_n to_o come_v to_o at_o pleasure_n in_o as_o much_o as_o a_o soul_n do_v not_o arrive_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n till_o after_o a_o passive_a union_n or_o contemplation_n whereto_o well_o may_v we_o dispose_v ourselves_o according_a to_o our_o power_n but_o it_o be_v in_o the_o free_a will_n &_o pleasure_n of_o god_n to_o confer_v it_o on_o who_o when_o &_o in_o what_o manner_n it_o please_v he_o 30._o but_o however_o let_v not_o beginner_n nor_o proficient_n in_o spirituality_n be_v discourage_v for_o that_o as_o yet_o they_o can_v find_v in_o themselves_o or_o at_o least_o very_o imperfect_o a_o perception_n of_o their_o not-being_a not_o have_v as_o yet_o a_o supernatural_a intellectual_a species_n evident_o &_o even_o palpable_o represent_v to_o their_o mind_n god_n totality_n &_o their_o own_o nothing_o the_o which_o species_n it_o be_v not_o the_o nature_n of_o active_a exercise_n to_o produce_v it_o be_v a_o great_a blessing_n of_o god_n to_o they_o that_o he_o have_v give_v they_o the_o courage_n to_o aspire_v thereunto_o and_o persevere_v in_o the_o way_n lead_v thither_o they_o will_v certain_o arrive_v to_o the_o partake_n of_o the_o substance_n of_o this_o sublime_a humility_n in_o virtue_n of_o which_o alone_o all_o other_o virtue_n will_v be_v perfect_o exercise_v by_o they_o in_o as_o much_o as_o by_o it_o they_o will_v come_v to_o know_v both_o god_n &_o themselves_o aright_o &_o be_v in_o a_o immediate_a disposition_n as_o our_o holy_a father_n say_v to_o that_o perfect_a charity_n which_o expel_v all_o fear_n for_o which_o reason_n he_o only_o treat_v particular_o &_o large_o of_o this_o virtue_n &_o of_o obedience_n which_o be_v a_o branch_n of_o it_o 31._o we_o ought_v therefore_o never_o to_o cease_v pray_v that_o god_n will_v reveyle_v unto_o we_o our_o own_o nothing_o &_o his_o all-being_a for_o prayer_n be_v the_o only_a effectual_a mean_n to_o attain_v unto_o it_o as_o for_o exterior_a act_n &_o expression_n of_o humility_n if_o they_o flow_v from_o prayer_n they_o may_v be_v profitable_a &_o acceptable_a to_o god_n
however_o for_o the_o peril_n of_o pride_n which_o will_v insinuate_v &_o mingle_v itself_o even_o in_o humility_n also_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v too_o forward_o to_o exercise_v voluntary_a outward_a action_n of_o humility_n out_o of_o a_o pretence_n of_o give_v edification_n to_o other_o and_o when_o we_o do_v such_o as_o be_v command_v in_o the_o rule_n &_o conformable_a to_o our_o state_n we_o ought_v in_o they_o as_o well_o as_o we_o can_v to_o purify_v our_o intention_n chap._n fourteen_o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o mortification_n of_o our_o natural_a inclination_n to_o liberty_n or_o independency_n by_o the_o virtue_n of_o obedience_n §_o 3._o 4._o obedience_n likewise_o regard_v god_n either_o mediate_o or_o immediate_o and_o that_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o obey_v god_n then_o man_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o the_o obligation_n lay_v by_o our_o holy_a rule_n on_o subject_n to_o discover_v their_o internal_a defect_n to_o superior_n be_v now_o much_o out_o of_o use_n and_o how_o this_o be_v come_v to_o pass_v §_o 9_o obedience_n earnest_o press_v by_o s._n benedict_n §_o 10._o it_o ought_v to_o proceed_v from_o the_o soul_n §_o 11._o 12._o of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o casuist_n limit_v or_o dispense_n with_o regular_a obedience_n and_o what_o use_n be_v to_o be_v make_v of_o it_o §_o 13._o 14._o special_a advice_n thereabouts_o to_o scrupulous_a soul_n §_o 15._o true_o perfect_a obedience_n have_v no_o limit_n §_o 16._o 17._o 18._o several_a defect_n in_o obedience_n §_o 19_o 20._o 21._o 22._o 23._o how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o in_o obedience_n in_o thing_n prejudicial_a and_o in_o such_o as_o be_v please_v to_o nature_n §_o 24._o a_o example_n of_o perfect_a simplicity_n in_o obedience_n §_o 25._o of_o obedience_n to_o brethren_n require_v in_o our_o rule_n §_o 26._o prayer_n a_o necessary_a mean_a to_o beget_v obedience_n 1._o the_o second_o depravation_n of_o the_o will_n which_o be_v to_o be_v mortify_v be_v a_o natural_a love_n of_o liberty_n &_o independence_n as_o also_o a_o ambition_n to_o dispose_v &_o rule_v other_o and_o the_o proper_a virtue_n whereby_o this_o be_v mortify_v be_v religious_a obedience_n the_o which_o be_v a_o branch_n of_o humility_n as_o the_o foresay_a depravation_n be_v of_o pride_n 2._o obedience_n therefore_o as_o well_o as_o humility_n do_v principal_o regard_n god_n even_o when_o it_o be_v perform_v to_o man_n and_o indeed_o unless_o our_o obedience_n to_o creature_n do_v flow_v from_o our_o obedience_n due_a to_o god_n it_o will_v never_o advance_v or_o perfectionate_a the_o soul_n but_o rather_o nourish_v all_o deprave_a affection_n in_o it_o as_o have_v its_o root_n in_o self-love_n servile_a fear_n yea_o oft_o in_o pride_n itself_o whereas_o if_o it_o be_v ground_v on_o our_o duty_n to_o god_n the_o soul_n thereby_o will_v become_v so_o humble_a supple_a and_o pliable_a that_o it_o will_v not_o refuse_v to_o subject_v itself_o to_o the_o mean_a creature_n it_o will_v cheerful_o suffer_v all_o cross_n contradiction_n &_o pressure_n both_o external_a and_o internal_a 3._o obedience_n be_v perform_v either_o 1._o immediate_o to_o god_n alone_o 2._o or_o immediate_o to_o man_n but_o for_o god_n sake_n we_o will_v in_o this_o place_n only_o treat_v of_o this_o latter_a for_o as_o for_o the_o other_o it_o comprehend_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n &_o devotion_n whether_o external_a or_o internal_a and_o therefore_o need_v not_o be_v speak_v of_o particular_o 4._o to_o submit_v one_o self_n to_o man_n for_o god_n sake_n or_o out_o of_o love_n to_o god_n be_v much_o hard_a than_o to_o do_v it_o immediate_o to_o god_n &_o consequent_o it_o be_v in_o that_o regard_n more_o meritorious_a &_o will_v most_o efficacious_o and_o speedy_o bring_v a_o soul_n to_o perfection_n the_o reason_n of_o the_o great_a difficulty_n in_o our_o obedience_n to_o man_n be_v 1._o because_o though_o we_o acknowledge_v our_o superior_a to_o be_v god_n substitute_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o always_o convince_v that_o his_o particular_a command_n proceed_v from_o he_o as_o such_o but_o rather_o from_o passion_n natural_a interest_n aversion_n &c_n &c_n so_o that_o we_o can_v see_v his_o command_n to_o be_v so_o reasonable_a as_o god_n be_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v not_o that_o obedience_n to_o they_o will_v produce_v so_o much_o good_a to_o the_o soul_n 2._o because_o we_o know_v our_o superior_a can_v see_v nor_o judge_v the_o heart_n but_o may_v err_v &_o be_v mistake_v so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o easy_a to_o submit_v the_o mind_n to_o one_o that_o have_v no_o right_a over_o it_o nor_o power_n to_o see_v his_o command_n perfect_o execute_v 5._o for_o this_o reason_n it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n know_v the_o wonderful_a virtue_n &_o efficacy_n of_o obedience_n proceed_v from_o the_o heart_n require_v in_o his_o holy_a rule_n that_o subject_n shall_v in_o a_o sort_n communicate_v to_o their_o superior_n that_o proper_a attribute_n of_o god_n who_o call_v himself_o a_o seer_n &_o searcher_n of_o the_o heart_n with_o humility_n &_o simplicity_n discover_v unto_o they_o all_o their_o considerable_a imperfection_n in_o thought_n and_o this_o he_o do_v not_o only_o out_o of_o a_o eye_n to_o the_o benefit_n that_o may_v come_v by_o the_o sacrament_n of_o penance_n for_o this_o be_v to_o be_v do_v though_o the_o superior_a be_v no_o priest_n as_o ancient_o oft_o they_o be_v not_o but_o the_o end_n of_o this_o obligation_n be_v 1._o for_o the_o more_o perfect_a humiliation_n of_o the_o subject_n &_o a_o mortification_n of_o that_o natural_a aversion_n that_o we_o have_v from_o the_o discover_n &_o submit_v to_o the_o censure_n of_o other_o our_o secret_a defect_n 2._o to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o superior_a may_v be_v enable_v to_o govern_v his_o subject_n for_o their_o spiritual_a advancement_n 6._o we_o may_v reasonable_o impute_v to_o the_o disuse_n of_o this_o obligation_n the_o great_a decay_n of_o religious_a discipline_n &_o perfection_n in_o the_o world_n because_o now_o general_o speak_v superior_n know_v no_o more_o of_o their_o subject_n but_o what_o they_o chance_v to_o observe_v in_o their_o outward_a behaviour_n for_o as_o for_o internal_a matter_n which_o be_v the_o principal_a they_o all_o pass_v between_o each_o religious_a person_n &_o a_o private_a choose_v confessarius_fw-la 7._o but_o withal_o the_o disuse_n of_o the_o say_a obligation_n we_o be_v to_o impute_v 1._o partly_o to_o the_o tepidity_n of_o subject_n &_o their_o want_n of_o care_n to_o be_v govern_v by_o a_o way_n absolute_o the_o best_a for_o themselves_o however_o very_o heavy_a to_o corrupt_v nature_n 2._o but_o principal_o to_o the_o incapacity_n &_o insufficiency_n of_o superior_n in_o regard_n of_o which_o such_o a_o change_n of_o the_o say_a custom_n be_v esteem_v even_o necessary_a 8._o sure_o this_o most_o excellent_a practice_n have_v never_o be_v bring_v into_o disuse_n or_o will_v again_o be_v restore_v if_o superior_n according_a as_o our_o holy_a rule_n require_v &_o as_o in_o the_o primitive_a time_n they_o be_v have_v continue_v or_o general_o now_o be_v 1._o themselves_o practise_v in_o a_o spiritual_a course_n of_o prayer_n &_o contemplation_n &_o will_v consider_v that_o their_o duty_n be_v to_o direct_v their_o subject_n soul_n in_o the_o same_o way_n 2._o if_o they_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o discretion_n &_o light_n to_o discern_v the_o several_a disposition_n &_o capacity_n of_o their_o subject_n soul_n in_o order_n to_o their_o principal_a end_n 3._o if_o in_o whatsoever_o imposition_n they_o lie_v on_o they_o beyond_o the_o observance_n of_o the_o rule_n they_o will_v regard_v whether_o thereby_o their_o subject_n consider_v their_o several_a temper_n be_v likely_a to_o be_v advance_v or_o hinder_v in_o their_o spiritual_a course_n &_o not_o esteem_v that_o it_o be_v a_o sufficient_a justification_n for_o they_o that_o the_o thing_n in_o themselves_o be_v not_o ill_o &_o their_o end_n therein_o be_v to_o mortify_v their_o subject_n will_n &_o passion_n for_o such_o mortification_n there_o may_v be_v as_o will_v endanger_v to_o extinguish_v the_o light_n that_o be_v in_o their_o subject_n soul_n by_o draw_v they_o to_o multiplicity_n &c_n &c_n so_o that_o no_o other_o imposition_n or_o mortification_n be_v excusable_a but_o such_o as_o right_a reason_n enlighten_v by_o grace_n will_v judge_v nocessary_a &_o such_o as_o god_n himself_o will_v ordain_v for_o they_o 4._o especialâ—y_o if_o they_o will_v abstain_v from_o lay_v such_o encumbrance_n on_o their_o subject_n as_o be_v last_a &_o regard_v not_o only_o the_o exterior_a but_o interiour_n also_o distract_n the_o memory_n confound_v the_o understanding_n &_o breed_v perplexity_n in_o their_o mind_n or_o in_o a_o word_n that_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o internal_a prayer_n for_o indeed_o imposition_n be_v to_o be_v account_v only_o so_o
trial_n of_o these_o virtue_n require_v of_o he_o to_o prepare_v some_o water_n for_o the_o wash_n of_o his_o foot_n the_o good_a priest_n with_o a_o modest_a chearfullnes_n obey_v &_o have_v quick_o bring_v the_o water_n s._n basile_n sit_v down_o command_v he_o to_o wash_v his_o foot_n who_o ready_o &_o diligent_o perform_v that_o command_n that_o be_v do_v the_o saint_n command_v the_o priest_n to_o sit_v down_o that_o so_o he_o in_o exchange_n may_v also_o wash_v his_o foot_n the_o humble_a &_o virtuous_o simple_a man_n without_o any_o excuse_n or_o contestation_n quiet_o &_o calm_o as_o it_o become_v one_o perfect_a in_o obedience_n suffer_v his_o foot_n to_o be_v wash_v by_o he_o that_o be_v then_o the_o most_o eminent_a &_o most_o reverence_a prelate_n in_o the_o eastern_a church_n upon_o this_o proof_n s._n basile_n be_v satisfy_v that_o he_o have_v find_v a_o attendant_n fit_a for_o the_o employment_n to_o which_o he_o destine_v he_o &_o with_o many_o thanks_o to_o the_o neighbour_n bishop_n take_v the_o priest_n with_o he_o for_o his_o inseparable_a comparison_n 25._o there_o be_v mention_v in_o our_o holy_a rule_n another_o sort_n of_o obedience_n of_o great_a efficacy_n to_o bring_v soul_n to_o perfection_n to_o wit_n a_o obedience_n not_o out_o of_o obligation_n &_o duty_n to_o superior_n but_o only_o from_o respect_n to_o brethren_n special_o ancient_n in_o religion_n and_o this_o out_o of_o charity_n &_o in_o conformity_n to_o s._n paul_n advice_n which_o be_v very_o general_a that_o we_o shall_v in_o honour_n prefer_v every_o one_o before_o ourselves_o this_o kind_n of_o obedience_n as_o receive_v proper_a command_n from_o such_o be_v now_o out_o of_o practice_n and_o whether_o this_o disuse_n have_v proceed_v from_o want_n of_o simplicity_n &_o humility_n in_o the_o young_a sort_n or_o from_o imperfection_n &_o want_n of_o discretion_n &_o gravity_n in_o the_o more_o ancient_a or_o perhaps_o from_o jealousy_n &_o a_o love_n of_o be_v absolute_a in_o superior_n it_o be_v hard_o to_o say_v but_o sure_o it_o be_v a_o great_a loss_n there_o be_v likewise_o obligation_n impose_v upon_o all_o juniour_n after_o any_o the_o least_o offence_n take_v by_o their_o ancient_n to_o make_v present_a satisfaction_n by_o prostration_n the_o which_o be_v to_o continue_v till_o that_o pardon_n &_o a_o benediction_n be_v give_v indeed_o in_o those_o time_n in_o which_o so_o much_o abstraction_n of_o life_n &_o so_o seldom_o mutual_a conversation_n be_v use_v offence_n be_v so_o rare_a that_o it_o will_v be_v no_o hard_a matter_n for_o such_o simple_a humble_a soul_n as_o most_o religious_a person_n than_o be_v to_o comply_v with_o these_o obligation_n so_o that_o the_o only_a way_n to_o restore_v they_o be_v to_o restore_v that_o most_o profitable_a abstraction_n solitude_n and_o silence_n again_o 26._o it_o be_v in_o vain_a for_o any_o one_o to_o seek_v the_o attain_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o obedience_n which_o beside_o the_o outward_a work_n require_v a_o submission_n of_o the_o spirit_n itself_o to_o god_n alone_o in_o the_o superior_a &_o a_o renounce_n of_o one_o own_o judgement_n upon_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o most_o ignorant_a or_o indiscreet_a superior_a but_o by_o the_o serious_a &_o constant_a practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n which_o alone_o purify_v the_o soul_n &_o make_v all_o other_o thing_n but_o god_n invisible_a to_o she_o so_o that_o without_o such_o prayer_n all_o other_o exterior_a practice_n of_o a_o officious_a humiliation_n will_v be_v of_o little_a or_o no_o virtue_n or_o efficacy_n thereto_o chap._n xv._o §_o 1._o we_o do_v not_o here_o treat_v of_o all_o kind_n of_o mortification_n or_o virtue_n but_o principal_o such_o as_o be_v most_o proper_a &_o most_o necessary_a to_o be_v know_v &_o practise_v in_o order_n to_o a_o internal_a life_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o etc._n etc._n several_a advice_n and_o observation_n touch_v virtue_n in_o general_n 1._o hitherto_o we_o have_v treat_v of_o the_o first_o instrument_n and_o mean_a of_o perfection_n to_o wit_n mortification_n at_o least_o so_o far_o as_o we_o conceive_v proper_a to_o the_o design_n of_o this_o book_n that_o be_v in_o order_n to_o internal_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v that_o we_o have_v not_o enlarge_v the_o discourse_n to_o comprehend_v universal_o all_o moral_a virtue_n the_o which_o be_v mortification_n to_o all_o our_o distemper_a affection_n but_o only_o such_o as_o be_v more_o peculiar_a to_o religious_a or_o internal_a liver_n for_o the_o rest_n the_o reader_n be_v refer_v to_o other_o book_n of_o christian_a morality_n which_o abundant_o treat_v of_o that_o subject_n the_o doctrine_n of_o which_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o the_o present_a purpose_n if_o reflection_n be_v make_v on_o the_o advice_n which_o have_v already_o be_v give_v concern_v the_o special_a virtue_n hitherto_o treat_v of_o to_o the_o which_o i_o will_v for_o conclusion_n of_o this_o treatise_n add_v a_o few_o more_o touch_v virtue_n in_o general_n 2._o the_o first_o advice_n be_v this_o that_o before_o a_o soul_n can_v attain_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o she_o be_v adorn_v with_o all_o sort_n of_o christian_a virtue_n not_o one_o except_v according_a to_o the_o say_n of_o the_o psalmist_n ibunt_fw-la de_fw-la virtute_fw-la in_o virtutem_fw-la videbit_fw-la ur_fw-la deus_fw-la deorum_fw-la in_o zion_n that_o be_v they_o shall_v go_v from_o one_o virtue_n to_o another_o and_o then_o &_o not_o till_o then_o the_o god_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v contemplate_v in_o zion_n so_o that_o if_o a_o soul_n make_v a_o stop_n at_o any_o virtue_n of_o willing_o favour_v herself_o in_o any_o inordinate_a affection_n it_o will_v not_o be_v possible_a for_o she_o to_o ascend_v to_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n where_o god_n be_v see_v 3._o the_o second_o regard_v the_o manner_n of_o attain_v to_o virtue_n for_o we_o be_v not_o so_o to_o understand_v these_o word_n of_o the_o psalmist_n as_o if_o a_o soul_n progress_n to_o perfection_n be_v by_o a_o successive_a gain_n of_o one_o virtue_n after_o another_o for_o example_n first_o possess_v herself_o of_o the_o virtue_n of_o temperance_n &_o have_v get_v that_o then_o proceed_v to_o patience_n humility_n chastity_n etc._n etc._n but_o they_o be_v all_o in_o the_o root_n get_v together_o &_o we_o make_v no_o progress_n in_o one_o virtue_n but_o withal_o we_o make_v a_o proportionable_a progress_n in_o all_o the_o rest_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o charity_n be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o christian_a virtue_n they_o be_v only_o such_o duty_n as_o charity_n which_o alone_o direct_v we_o to_o god_n our_o last_o end_n will_v &_o do_v dictate_v to_o be_v practise_v on_o several_a &_o different_a occasion_n 4._o true_a it_o be_v that_o either_o by_o our_o natural_a temper_n or_o by_o have_v more_o frequent_a trial_n &_o occasion_n of_o exercise_v some_o virtue_n certain_a passion_n opposite_a to_o they_o may_v be_v according_a to_o the_o material_a disposition_n in_o corporal_a nature_n more_o subdue_v &_o regulate_v then_o other_o yet_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o disposition_n of_o the_o spiritual_a soul_n that_o be_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o mind_n &_o resolution_n of_o the_o will_n the_o soul_n according_a to_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o object_n be_v equal_o by_o a_o equality_n of_o proportion_n incline_v to_o all_o good_a and_o equal_o avert_v from_o all_o ill_a because_o divine_a love_n be_v equal_o inconsistent_a with_o all_o mortal_a sin_n and_o do_v combat_n &_o subdue_v self-love_n in_o all_o its_o branch_n our_o progress_n therefore_o express_v in_o the_o phrase_n de_fw-fr virtute_fw-la in_o virtutem_fw-la be_v to_o be_v understand_v to_o be_v from_o a_o low_a &_o more_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o charity_n and_o all_o its_o virtue_n to_o a_o high_a till_o we_o come_v to_o the_o mount_n of_o perfection_n 5._o the_o three_o advice_n be_v that_o this_o progress_n &_o increase_n in_o virtue_n be_v neither_o equal_a at_o all_o time_n for_o the_o soul_n by_o resist_v strong_a temptation_n &_o in_o virtue_n of_o more_o efficacious_a prayer_n do_v make_v great_a stride_n and_o pace_n neither_o be_v it_o always_o observable_a either_o by_o the_o traveller_n himself_o or_o other_o yea_o it_o be_v neither_o necessary_a nor_o perhaps_o convenient_a that_o we_o shall_v much_o heed_n the_o rule_n that_o be_v give_v by_o some_o for_o examination_n of_o our_o proficiency_n such_o enquiry_n seem_v not_o very_o suitable_a to_o humility_n &_o probable_o will_v not_o produce_v any_o good_a effect_n in_o we_o it_o may_v suffice_v we_o that_o we_o go_v on_o and_o that_o god_n know_v perfect_o our_o growth_n in_o piety_n &_o love_n &_o will_v most_o assure_o reward_n we_o proportional_o though_o we_o shall_v be_v never_o so_o ignorant_a to_o what_o degree_n of_o
soul_n powerful_o and_o immediate_o direct_v and_o move_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n now_o this_o three_o degree_n to_o which_o the_o prayer_n belong_v be_v indeed_o true_o the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n beyond_o which_o there_o be_v no_o state_n of_o prayer_n may_v very_o convenient_o include_v all_o the_o four_o degree_n mention_v by_o barbanson_n &_o so_o nice_o distinguish_v by_o he_o rather_o out_o of_o a_o particular_a experience_n of_o the_o effect_n pass_v in_o his_o own_o soul_n the_o which_o perhaps_o be_v not_o the_o same_o in_o all_o for_o god_n work_v according_a to_o his_o own_o good_a pleasure_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o perfect_a servant_n and_o not_o according_a to_o any_o method_n that_o man_n can_v conceive_v or_o express_v 6._o these_o therefore_o be_v the_o three_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n the_o which_o do_v most_o proper_o answer_n to_o the_o common_o assign_a way_n of_o spirituality_n the_o purgative_n illuminative_a and_o vnitive_a of_o they_o the_o first_o be_v a_o prayer_n consist_v much_o of_o discourse_n of_o the_o vndestanding_n the_o other_o two_o be_v prayer_n of_o the_o will_n but_o most_o principal_o and_o pure_o the_o last_o of_o these_o three_o i_o shall_v treat_v in_o order_n in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n to_o wit_n 1._o in_o pursuit_n of_o this_o second_o section_n of_o the_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n to_o wit_n meditation_n 2._o in_o the_o follow_a section_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n 3._o and_o in_o the_o last_o section_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o aspiration_n or_o contemplation_n but_o before_o i_o come_v to_o treat_v of_o each_o in_o particular_a i_o conceive_v it_o requisite_a first_o to_o show_v the_o ground_n upon_o which_o the_o propriety_n and_o reasonableness_n of_o this_o division_n of_o the_o succeed_a degree_n of_o prayer_n be_v build_v and_o may_v be_v evident_o and_o convince_o demonstrate_v so_o far_o that_o according_a to_o the_o ordinary_a dispensation_n of_o divine_a grace_n to_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o perfection_n it_o may_v be_v affirm_v that_o they_o be_v conduct_v by_o these_o degree_n in_o this_o order_n and_o no_o other_o way_n and_o this_o experience_n will_v make_v good_a even_o in_o soul_n that_o never_o hear_v of_o any_o degree_n of_o prayer_n but_o without_o learning_n read_v or_o instruction_n be_v immediate_o guide_v by_o god_n holy_a spirit_n in_o his_o internal_a way_n the_o reason_n hereof_o will_v appear_v by_o that_o which_o follow_v 7._o first_o therefore_o it_o be_v apparent_a and_o acknowledged_a that_o general_a speak_n a_o soul_n from_o a_o state_n of_o negligence_n &_o secularity_n first_o enter_v into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n though_o she_o be_v suppose_v by_o virtue_n of_o that_o grace_n by_o which_o she_o be_v move_v to_o make_v so_o great_a and_o happy_a a_o change_n to_o be_v real_o in_o the_o state_n of_o justification_n yet_o there_o still_o remain_v in_o she_o a_o great_a measure_n of_o fear_n conceive_v from_o the_o guilt_n of_o her_o former_a sin_n and_o withal_o strong_a inclination_n to_o sin_n and_o vicious_a habit_n do_v yet_o abide_v and_o will_v do_v so_o till_o by_o long_a practice_n of_o virtue_n and_o piety_n they_o be_v abate_v and_o expel_v moreover_o a_o world_n of_o vain_a and_o sinful_a image_n do_v possess_v the_o soul_n which_o distract_v she_o whensoever_o she_o set_v her_o mind_n on_o god_n call_v she_o to_o attend_v to_o her_o formerly-pleasing_a object_n which_o take_v up_o all_o her_o affection_n and_o which_o do_v still_o ofttimes_o insinuate_v themselves_o into_o her_o memory_n with_o too_o much_o contentment_n to_o inferior_a nature_n the_o which_o contentment_n though_o she_o upon_o reflection_n do_v resist_v and_o renown_n with_o her_o superior_a soul_n yet_o this_o resistance_n be_v ofttimes_o so_o feeble_a that_o frequent_o she_o be_v real_o entangle_v and_o seduce_v &_o more_o oft_o do_v find_v ground_n to_o doubt_v that_o she_o have_v give_v consent_n thereto_o 8._o such_o be_v ordinary_o the_o disorder_a condition_n of_o a_o soul_n at_o her_o first_o conversion_n the_o remedy_n acknowledge_v to_o be_v proper_a and_o necessary_a for_o she_o be_v prayer_n and_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o prayer_n that_o for_o the_o present_a she_o be_v capable_a of_o be_v either_o a_o much_o distract_a vocal_a prayer_n or_o discursive_a meditation_n in_o which_o the_o understanding_n and_o imagination_n be_v chief_o employ_v and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o although_o god_n have_v imprint_v true_a charity_n in_o such_o a_o soul_n yet_o seduce_v image_n so_o abound_v and_o vicious_a affection_n be_v as_o yet_o so_o predominant_a in_o sensitive_a nature_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n for_o the_o fortify_v it_o to_o chase_v away_o the_o say_a image_n and_o subdue_v such_o affection_n by_o store_v the_o imagination_n with_o contrary_a good_a image_n and_o set_v on_o work_n affection_n contrary_a to_o these_o and_o this_o be_v do_v by_o invent_v argument_n and_o motive_n especial_o of_o fear_n so_o that_o the_o exercise_n proper_a to_o a_o soul_n in_o this_o first_o imperfect_a state_n be_v those_o of_o sensible_a contrition_n and_o remorse_n for_o sin_n etc._n etc._n cause_v by_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o foulness_n of_o it_o of_o the_o misery_n that_o attend_v it_o the_o certainty_n and_o uncertainty_n of_o death_n the_o terror_n of_o god_n judgement_n the_o horror_n of_o hell_n etc._n etc._n as_o likewise_o a_o consideration_n that_o no_o less_o a_o price_n will_v serve_v for_o the_o reparation_n of_o a_o soul_n from_o sin_n then_o the_o ibloudy_a passion_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n such_o matter_n as_o these_o be_v now_o the_o seasonable_a subject_n of_o meditation_n and_o the_o action_n of_o mortification_n fit_a to_o attend_v such_o prayer_n be_v more_o sensible_a gross_a and_o exterior_a proper_a to_o repress_v she_o grosser_n defect_n 9_o now_o when_o by_o mean_n of_o such_o exercise_n the_o soul_n be_v become_v well_o ease_v from_o remorse_n and_o begin_v to_o be_v move_v to_o the_o resistance_n and_o hatred_n of_o sin_n by_o the_o love_n of_o god_n rather_o than_o fear_v of_o his_o judgement_n her_o discursive_a prayer_n for_o all_o that_o do_v not_o cease_v but_o there_o be_v a_o change_n make_v only_o in_o the_o object_n of_o it_o because_o instead_o of_o the_o consideration_n of_o judgement_n hell_n etc._n etc._n the_o soul_n find_v herself_o more_o incline_v to_o resist_v sin_n by_o the_o motive_n of_o love_n or_o a_o consideration_n of_o the_o charity_n patience_n and_o suffering_n of_o our_o lord_n as_o likewise_o out_o of_o a_o comfortable_a meditation_n of_o the_o future_a joy_n promise_v and_o prepare_v for_o she_o although_o charity_n be_v much_o increase_v yet_o not_o yet_o to_o such_o a_o point_n but_o that_o she_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o motive_n and_o consideration_n to_o set_v it_o on_o work_n as_o likewise_o of_o good_a holy_a and_o efficacious_a image_n of_o divine_a thing_n to_o allure_v she_o to_o forget_v or_o neglect_v the_o vain_a image_n that_o yet_o do_v much_o distract_v she_o the_o object_n of_o her_o thought_n now_o be_v the_o infinite_a joy_n of_o heaven_n the_o sublime_a mystery_n of_o faith_n the_o bless_a humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n the_o glorious_a attribute_n of_o the_o divinity_n etc._n etc._n and_o the_o mortification_n answerable_a to_o the_o present_a state_n do_v grow_v more_o internal_a be_v much_o exercise_v about_o inward_a defect_n which_o by_o prayer_n be_v discover_v to_o she_o and_o correct_v now_o a_o soul_n whilst_o she_o continue_v in_o this_o sort_n of_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n stand_v in_o need_n of_o a_o much_o and_o frequent_a consideration_n of_o motive_n be_v proper_o say_v to_o be_v in_o the_o purgative_n way_n though_o towards_o the_o latter_a end_n there_o be_v a_o mixture_n of_o the_o illuminative_a 10._o in_o the_o second_o place_n when_o a_o soul_n by_o perseverance_n in_o such_o discursive_a prayer_n come_v to_o find_v as_o in_o â—â—me_n she_o will_v that_o she_o stand_v in_o less_o need_n of_o invent_v motive_n to_o induce_v she_o to_o exercise_v love_n to_o god_n because_o good_a affection_n by_o exercise_n abound_v and_o â—owing_v ripe_a do_v with_o facility_n move_v themselves_o so_o â—â—at_a the_o mere_a present_v of_o a_o good_a object_n to_o the_o soul_n suffise_v to_o make_v she_o produce_v a_o good_a affection_n thenceforward_o by_o little_a and_o little_a the_o soul_n in_o prayer_n quit_v discourse_v and_o the_o will_v immediate_o stir_v itself_o towards_o god_n and_o here_o meditation_n end_v the_o second_o and_o more_o perfect_a degree_n or_o state_n of_o internal_a prayer_n begin_v to_o wit_n the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n 11._o now_o a_o soul_n live_v a_o solitary_a or_o abstract_a life_n and_o be_v arrive_v to_o this_o prayer_n if_o she_o shall_v be_v oblige_v by_o
of_o sensitive_a nature_n where_o it_o be_v join_v or_o combine_a witâ—_n the_o superior_a spiritual_a will_n 5._o now_o whether_o of_o these_o two_o that_o be_v act_n or_o affection_n be_v to_o be_v practise_v respective_o by_o soul_n that_o must_v depend_v upon_o the_o observation_n and_o experience_n that_o each_o soul_n have_v of_o she_o own_o natural_a disposition_n &_o inclination_n general_o soul_n be_v more_o dispose_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n the_o which_o likewise_o be_v both_o more_o profitable_a &_o more_o secure_a and_o therefore_o in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n i_o shall_v most_o insist_v upon_o they_o 6._o and_o as_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o sensible_a affection_n it_o belong_v only_o to_o such_o soul_n as_o in_o their_o natural_a temper_n be_v more_o tender_a and_o affectionate_a who_o love_n express_v itself_o with_o great_a liquefaction_n in_o sensible_a nature_n so_o that_o they_o be_v easy_o move_v to_o tear_n and_o do_v feel_v warmth_n &_o quick_a motion_n about_o the_o heart_n &c_n &c_n which_o effect_n or_o symptom_n do_v not_o argue_v love_n to_o be_v great_a for_o it_o may_v be_v as_o cordial_a &_o more_o firm_a generous_a &_o active_a in_o other_o who_o seldom_o or_o never_o feel_v such_o effect_n 7._o such_o tender_a soul_n as_o these_o have_v withal_o a_o natural_a good_a propension_n to_o seek_v god_n in_o their_o interiour_n can_v easy_o exercise_v their_o affection_n to_o god_n in_o and_o by_o their_o corporal_a nature_n without_o trouble_v themselves_o with_o seek_v reason_n &_o motive_n for_o it_o yea_o in_o a_o short_a time_n they_o come_v to_o have_v a_o kind_n of_o disgust_n in_o invent_v or_o consider_v motive_n represent_v by_o the_o understanding_n 8._o as_o for_o the_o manner_n how_o such_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v themselves_o in_o their_o recollection_n the_o special_a instruction_n follow_a concern_v the_o exercise_v of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n will_v serve_v so_o that_o there_o will_v be_v no_o need_n of_o repeat_v they_o twice_o 9_o the_o principal_a care_n that_o such_o soul_n ought_v to_o have_v be_v to_o endeavour_v to_o raise_v this_o their_o love_n out_o of_o sensitive_a nature_n to_o the_o superior_a spiritual_a will_n by_o who_o operation_n alone_o the_o soul_n be_v true_o perfect_v therefore_o according_a to_o the_o advice_n former_o give_v touch_v sensible_a devotion_n they_o be_v to_o mortify_v and_o restrain_v rather_o than_o to_o give_v scope_n to_o tear_n and_o other_o tenderness_n of_o nature_n in_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n and_o some_o other_o particular_n which_o do_v concern_v affection_n as_o distinct_a from_o act_n of_o the_o will_n shall_v hereafter_o be_v occasional_o take_v notice_n of_o 10._o now_o beside_o these_o sensible_a act_n of_o love_n there_o be_v other_o which_o be_v pure_o in_o spirit_n &_o which_o among_o all_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o will_v be_v the_o most_o sublime_a that_o can_v be_v exercise_v in_o this_o life_n for_o they_o can_v be_v use_v by_o a_o soul_n so_o as_o to_o be_v her_o constant_a usual_a exercise_n till_o she_o be_v come_v to_o a_o perfect_a degree_n of_o mortification_n which_o ordinary_o be_v not_o before_o a_o passive_a union_n after_o which_o they_o be_v exercise_v in_o a_o manner_n so_o spiritual_a &_o divine_a that_o the_o unexperienced_a can_v conceive_v nor_o the_o experience_a express_v these_o be_v certain_a painful_a yet_o delightful_a long_n afâ—er_v god_n certain_a languish_a elevation_n of_o spirit_n towards_o a_o unknown_a dark_a divine_a object_n the_o desire_n &_o absence_n of_o which_o cause_v a_o tedious_a disgust_n of_o all_o sensible_a contentment_n yea_o even_o in_o spiritual_a thing_n also_o but_o of_o such_o operation_n as_o these_o it_o will_v be_v seasonable_a to_o speak_v when_o we_o come_v to_o treat_v of_o perfect_a contemplation_n 11._o as_o touch_v the_o most_o profitable_a exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n the_o practice_n thereof_o in_o gross_a be_v after_o this_o manner_n the_o soul_n aim_n be_v to_o recollect_v herself_o by_o that_o general_a notion_n that_o faith_n give_v she_o of_o god_n but_o be_v not_o able_a to_o do_v this_o present_o she_o do_v in_o her_o mind_n and_o by_o the_o help_n of_o the_o imagination_n represent_v unto_o herself_o some_o divine_a object_n as_o some_o one_o or_o more_o perfection_n of_o god_n or_o some_o mystery_n of_o faith_n as_o the_o incarnation_n tranfiguration_n passion_n agony_n or_o dereliction_n of_o our_o lord_n &c_n &c_n and_o thereupon_o without_o such_o discourse_n as_o be_v use_v in_o meditation_n she_o do_v immediate_o without_o more_o ado_n produce_v act_n or_o affection_n one_o after_o a_o other_o towards_o god_n or_o upon_o herself_o with_o reference_n to_o god_n adore_v give_v thanks_o humble_v herself_o in_o his_o presence_n resigning_n herself_o to_o his_o will_n etc._n etc._n 12._o this_o exercise_n be_v more_o easy_a to_o learn_v and_o comprehend_v then_o meditation_n because_o so_o many_o rule_n be_v not_o necessary_a to_o it_o neither_o be_v there_o in_o it_o such_o study_n or_o exercise_v the_o ability_n of_o the_o understanding_n or_o imagination_n it_o be_v indeed_o a_o very_a plain_n downright_a and_o simple_a exercise_n consist_v mere_o in_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o will_n but_o notwithstanding_o such_o plain_a simplicity_n it_o be_v a_o far_o more_o noble_a exercise_n then_o that_o of_o meditation_n as_o be_v the_o fruit_n and_o result_n of_o it_o for_o whatsoever_o the_o understanding_n operate_v with_o reference_n to_o god_n can_v produce_v no_o good_a effect_n upon_o the_o soul_n further_o than_o it_o have_v relation_n to_o and_o influence_n on_o the_o will_n by_o dispose_v it_o to_o submit_v and_o resign_v itself_o to_o god_n or_o to_o tend_v towards_o he_o by_o act_n of_o love_n adoration_n etc._n etc._n 13._o now_o this_o exercise_n although_o likewise_o it_o be_v not_o so_o busy_a and_o laborious_a as_o meditation_n yet_o it_o may_v &_o will_v often_o time_n seem_v to_o some_o soul_n even_o after_o they_o have_v make_v a_o reasonable_a progress_n in_o it_o to_o be_v more_o harsh_a &_o difficult_a but_o the_o good_a will_n and_o resolution_n of_o the_o soul_n persist_v in_o it_o will_v by_o god_n grace_n overcome_v all_o difficulty_n 14._o a_o advice_n therefore_o it_o be_v again_o and_o again_o to_o be_v repeat_v and_o never_o to_o be_v forget_v to_o wit_n that_o the_o devout_a well-minded_a soul_n that_o shall_v be_v call_v by_o god_n to_o walk_v in_o these_o internal_a way_n of_o prayer_n be_v courageous_a and_o diligent_a in_o the_o pursuance_n of_o they_o after_o the_o best_a manner_n she_o can_v amid_o all_o desolation_n obscurity_n and_o distraction_n practise_v these_o exercise_n as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v in_o the_o superior_a will_n not_o care_v whether_o sensitive_a nature_n concur_v therein_o or_o no._n 15._o in_o force_a immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n especial_o at_o the_o beginning_n there_o be_v some_o degree_n of_o meditation_n which_o be_v the_o think_n on_o the_o object_n and_o thereupon_o internal_o produce_v the_o act_n or_o affection_n itself_o &_o quiet_o continue_v and_o rest_v in_o it_o till_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o be_v spend_v there_o be_v likewise_o always_o some_o use_n of_o image_n and_o in_o the_o begin_n these_o image_n be_v more_o gross_a but_o afterward_o by_o practice_n they_o grow_v more_o pure_a and_o all_o manner_n of_o discourse_n cease_v yea_o the_o soul_n will_v begin_v to_o reject_v all_o distinct_a image_n and_o apprehend_v god_n without_o any_o particular_a representation_n only_o by_o that_o obscure_a notion_n which_o faith_n inform_v we_o of_o his_o totality_n and_o incomprehensibility_n and_o this_o only_o be_v truth_n whearas_fw-mi all_o distinct_a image_n be_v but_o imperfect_a shadow_n of_o truth_n 16._o now_o how_o great_a be_v the_o security_n of_o a_o soul_n thus_o operate_a pure_o by_o the_o will_n how_o free_a be_v she_o from_o those_o error_n and_o danger_n into_o which_o she_o may_v be_v lead_v by_o the_o curious_a search_a subtlety_n of_o the_o understanding_n here_o god_n himself_o be_v only_o her_o light_n and_o not_o any_o imagination_n of_o her_o own_o though_o image_n shall_v intrude_v themselves_o perforce_o into_o the_o fancy_n or_o be_v inject_v by_o the_o devil_n yet_o the_o soul_n will_v not_o with_o the_o will_v apply_v herself_o to_o such_o image_n but_o either_o divert_v her_o mind_n from_o they_o or_o transcend_v and_o renounce_v they_o and_o without_o image_n stir_v up_o sensuality_n and_o the_o rational_a will_n the_o devil_n can_v produce_v the_o least_o harm_n or_o danger_n to_o the_o soul_n nor_o hinder_v her_o union_n with_o god_n 17._o the_o more_o plain_a and_o simple_a that_o act_n of_o the_o will_v be_v for_o the_o manner_n of_o expression_n the_o more_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a be_v they_o to_o cause_v a_o good_a
show_n that_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o great_a trouble_n affliction_n passion_n &_o distraction_n a_o soul_n may_v as_o true_o &_o efficacious_o dispose_v of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o superior_a spirit_n which_o depend_v not_o upon_o our_o corporal_a organ_n fix_v they_o upon_o god_n make_v choice_n of_o he_o for_o her_o final_a end_n and_o submit_v herself_o with_o resignation_n &_o love_n to_o he_o even_o for_o send_v she_o such_o trial_n as_o she_o can_v in_o her_o great_a solitude_n &_o most_o quiet_a introversion_n and_o this_o be_v best_a do_v without_o any_o violence_n or_o impetuosity_n but_o with_o great_a tranquillity_n dart_v a_o spiritual_a regard_n to_o god_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o she_o may_v be_v as_o true_o &_o effectual_o unite_v to_o god_n though_o not_o according_a to_o sense_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o these_o trouble_n as_o in_o her_o great_a sensible_a union_n 23._o a_o soul_n that_o will_v be_v thus_o vigilant_a &_o industrious_a may_v assure_v herself_o that_o god_n who_o lay_v this_o office_n on_o she_o do_v it_o not_o for_o her_o harm_n but_o for_o her_o great_a good_a &_o to_o give_v her_o occasion_n of_o exercise_v several_a virtue_n which_o otherwise_o she_o will_v have_v want_v at_o least_o the_o perfection_n of_o they_o as_o likewise_o for_o the_o trial_n of_o her_o fidelity_n to_o he_o amid_o whatsoever_o encumbrance_n &_o tentation_n now_o by_o mean_n of_o these_o virtue_n she_o will_v make_v a_o great_a progress_n in_o spirit_n at_o least_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v solid_a charity_n if_o not_o for_o light_v of_o contemplation_n and_o retain_v a_o love_n to_o prayer_n &_o practise_v it_o as_o well_o as_o she_o can_v she_o will_v come_v to_o be_v in_o so_o good_a a_o disposition_n that_o when_o she_o shall_fw-mi return_n to_o her_o former_a vacancy_n &_o solitude_n she_o will_v make_v a_o a_o wonderful_a progress_n in_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n thus_o she_o may_v see_v that_o as_o the_o office_n have_v peril_n in_o it_o so_o will_v god_n proportionable_o increase_v his_o grace_n &_o assistance_n 24._o for_o want_n of_o this_o care_n &_o vigilance_n over_o their_o interior_a it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v there_o be_v many_o in_o religious_a conuent_v that_o fruitless_o spend_v their_o life_n in_o employment_n in_o some_o sort_n beneficial_a to_o other_o but_o of_o little_a profit_n yea_o perhaps_o very_o prejudicial_a to_o themselves_o as_o some_o that_o read_v lesson_n of_o philosophy_n or_o divinity_n yea_o even_o many_o that_o pass_v their_o whole_a time_n almost_o in_o spiritual_a employment_n as_o preach_v hear_v confession_n give_v spiritual_a direction_n &c_n &c_n for_o these_o work_n be_v perform_v not_o in_o virtue_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n &_o consequent_o not_o proceed_v from_o the_o divine_a spirit_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o be_v the_o source_n of_o all_o action_n perform_v in_o a_o state_n of_o distraction_n god_n spirit_n seldom_o give_v a_o blessing_n to_o they_o chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o how_o internal_a liver_n ought_v to_o behave_v themselves_o in_o time_n of_o sickness_n the_o benefit_n of_o sickness_n to_o such_o only_a §_o 3._o 4._o &c_n &c_n the_o great_a danger_n of_o soul_n unprovided_a for_o sickness_n especial_o of_o tepid_a soul_n in_o a_o religious_a state_n §_o 9_o 10._o 11._o how_o sickness_n be_v to_o be_v accept_v §_o 12._o 13._o of_o a_o certain_a great_a tentation_n in_o sickness_n §_o 14._o a_o sick_a person_n be_v god_n prisoner_n §_o 15._o spiritual_a exercise_n by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v neglect_v in_o sickness_n §_o 16._o how_o mortification_n be_v then_o to_o be_v practise_v in_o internal_a tentation_n §_o 17._o 18._o particular_o how_o fear_n of_o death_n &_o uncertainty_n of_o what_o follow_v be_v to_o be_v mortify_v §_o 19_o 20._o etc._n etc._n it_o be_v for_o our_o good_a to_o be_v ignorant_a of_o our_o future_a state_n §_o 26._o 27._o of_o tentation_n to_o infidelity_n despair_v &c_n &c_n a_o story_n out_o of_o cardinal_n bellarmine_n §_o 28._o 29._o &c_n &c_n how_o mortification_n about_o sensual_a pleasure_n be_v then_o to_o be_v exercise_v 34_o &c_n &c_n solicitude_n about_o health_n misbecome_v religious_a person_n §_o 37._o in_o sickness_n &_o pain_n we_o be_v best_a sensible_a of_o our_o lord_n suffering_n §_o 38._o advice_n to_o those_o that_o attend_v on_o the_o sick_a §_o 39_o 40._o a_o sick_a person_n chief_a care_n must_v be_v not_o to_o neglect_v internal_a prayer_n §_o 46._o prayer_n be_v the_o universal_a remedy_n against_o all_o tentation_n affliction_n etc._n etc._n §_o 48._o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v judge_v according_a to_o her_o state_n in_o sickness_n 1._o the_o second_o state_n before_o mention_v that_o require_v a_o more_o than_o ordinary_a care_n and_o provision_n as_o seem_v less_o proper_a for_o internal_a exercise_n be_v the_o state_n of_o sickness_n the_o which_o though_o it_o do_v exact_v a_o great_a solicitude_n &_o vigilance_n as_o be_v a_o disposition_n to_o a_o condition_n ireversible_a yet_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v a_o more_o secure_a state_n then_o that_o of_o external_a employment_n in_o as_o much_o as_o those_o be_v such_o as_o be_v apt_a to_o draw_v our_o affection_n from_o god_n to_o sensual_a object_n whereas_o in_o sickness_n all_o thing_n do_v rather_o drive_v a_o soul_n to_o seek_v &_o adhere_v unto_o god_n since_o all_o other_o comfort_n do_v fail_v she_o and_o all_o pleasure_n become_v distasteful_a to_o she_o moreover_o in_o sickness_n there_o be_v continual_a occasion_n of_o high_a resignation_n and_o far_o less_o sollicitude_n about_o temporal_a matter_n for_o the_o chief_a business_n of_o a_o sick_a person_n be_v forbear_v &_o hold_v of_o patience_n in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v rather_o a_o not-doing_a then_o do_v 2._o now_o since_o it_o concern_v a_o soul_n most_o deep_o to_o be_v well-disposed_n in_o sickness_n my_o purpose_n be_v to_o give_v some_o general_a advice_n to_o soul_n already_o practise_v in_o internal_a way_n &_o they_o shall_v be_v such_o as_o chief_o have_v a_o reference_n to_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n the_o which_o advice_n notwithstanding_o our_o sick_a person_n ought_v only_o so_o far_o to_o make_v use_n of_o as_o he_o find_v they_o proper_a for_o his_o spirit_n &_o case_n 3._o it_o be_v not_o without_o just_a reason_n that_o a_o ancient_a holy_a man_n say_v that_o a_o religious_a spiritual_a life_n be_v a_o continual_a meditation_n of_o death_n because_o the_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o our_o exercise_n be_v to_o prepare_v ourselves_o against_o the_o day_n of_o our_o great_a account_n to_o the_o end_n we_o may_v give_v it_o with_o joy_n &_o not_o with_o fear_n 4._o if_o when_o sickness_n be_v come_v a_o soul_n be_v to_o learn_v how_o she_o ought_v to_o behave_v herself_o it_o will_v go_v hard_a with_o she_o by_o reason_n that_o then_o such_o a_o soul_n will_v be_v in_o great_a blindness_n of_o understanding_n and_o deadness_n of_o will_n all_o her_o thought_n and_o care_n will_v be_v employ_v in_o seek_v to_o avoid_v pain_n to_o pass_v away_o the_o tedious_a time_n and_o to_o recover_v and_o if_o any_o good_a thought_n come_v into_o her_o mind_n it_o be_v fear_n that_o principal_o raise_v they_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o a_o serious_a conversion_n be_v seldom_o give_v in_o sickness_n when_o passion_n do_v swell_v &_o immortification_n come_v thick_a upon_o one_o another_o and_o a_o soul_n that_o in_o health_n have_v neglect_v god_n &_o despise_v the_o mean_n of_o conversion_n can_v with_o any_o reason_n or_o confidence_n expect_v a_o extraordinary_a or_o miraculous_a grace_n to_o work_v a_o sudden_a cordial_a conversion_n if_o that_o one_o be_v whole_a life_n spend_v in_o painful_a mortification_n &_o serious_a recollection_n be_v but_o even_o little_a enough_o to_o conquer_v the_o perverseness_n of_o our_o will_n &_o the_o glewyne_n of_o our_o affection_n adhere_v to_o sensual_a object_n what_o may_v be_v expect_v from_o a_o few_o interrupt_v inefficacious_a prayer_n or_o purpose_n in_o sickness_n suggest_v mere_o by_o fear_n upon_o the_o approach_n of_o death_n &_o judgement_n while_o there_o still_o remain_v in_o the_o heart_n a_o secret_a love_n to_o those_o sinful_a delight_n that_o must_v now_o be_v forsake_v upon_o which_o ground_n s._n hierome_n have_v a_o terrible_a say_n that_o among_o those_o that_o defer_v their_o conversion_n till_o their_o death_n scarce_o one_o of_o a_o hundred_o thousand_o be_v save_v 5._o and_o i_o believe_v the_o case_n of_o such_o a_o soul_n in_o religion_n be_v more_o perilous_a because_o have_v enjoy_v so_o great_a help_n to_o a_o holy_a life_n she_o have_v with_o so_o unpardonable_a a_o ingratitude_n neglect_v they_o whereas_o a_o secular_a person_n be_v touch_v in_o sickness_n may_v resolve_v to_o seek_v those_o mean_n of_o abstraction_n of_o life_n a_o
renounce_n of_o the_o world_n prayer_n &c_n &c_n the_o want_n of_o which_o be_v the_o principal_a cause_n it_o may_v be_v of_o his_o deordination_n upon_o which_o ground_n alone_o s._n bernard_n say_v that_o he_o will_v give_v absolution_n present_o to_o the_o great_a sinner_n in_o sickness_n if_o he_o will_v promise_v upon_o supposition_n of_o recovery_n to_o quit_v the_o world_n and_o embrace_v a_o penitential_a life_n in_o religion_n because_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o promise_v or_o perform_v a_o great_a satisfaction_n but_o i_o doubt_v whether_o he_o will_v be_v so_o indulgent_a to_o a_o unconuerted_a religious_a person_n that_o can_v promise_v no_o high_a state_n than_o he_o be_v in_o already_o with_o so_o little_a good_a effect_n to_o his_o soul_n 6._o yet_o god_n forbid_v that_o from_o hence_o any_o shall_v advise_o give_v way_n to_o despair_n or_o deliberate_o refuse_v to_o humble_v themselves_o to_o mortify_v their_o inordinate_a affection_n or_o to_o pray_v the_o best_a they_o can_v good_a purpose_n &_o action_n perform_v mere_o out_o of_o fear_n will_v produce_v some_o good_a effect_n &_o god_n goodness_n which_o be_v incomprehensible_a may_v change_v fear_n into_o love_n how_o imperfect_a soever_o 7._o now_o though_o the_o case_n of_o tepid_a liver_n be_v not_o altogether_o so_o miserable_a yet_o it_o be_v infinite_o perilous_a &_o the_o issue_n extreme_o to_o be_v suspect_v for_o though_o they_o can_v be_v charge_v with_o many_o great_a sin_n of_o commission_n yet_o their_o whole_a life_n have_v be_v a_o continual_a omission_n of_o duty_n to_o which_o their_o profession_n do_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n oblige_v they_o and_o now_o what_o other_o new_a motive_n can_v they_o have_v to_o relinquish_v their_o negligence_n but_o only_o fear_v also_o or_o what_o prayer_n be_v they_o likely_a to_o make_v when_o their_o necessity_n be_v so_o great_a &_o the_o help_n to_o prayer_n so_o small_a 8._o the_o only_a secure_a way_n therefore_o to_o prevent_v the_o incur_v this_o hazardous_a state_n in_o sickness_n be_v during_o health_n to_o combat_v against_o tepidity_n and_o by_o diligent_a prayer_n to_o provide_v one_o self_n of_o internal_a strength_n &_o grace_n for_o such_o soul_n by_o a_o prosecution_n of_o their_o accustom_a duty_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n make_v good_a use_n of_o their_o sickness_n &_o gain_v extreme_o by_o it_o they_o be_v not_o forward_o to_o promise_v great_a matter_n as_o tepid_v soul_n usual_o do_v though_o they_o perform_v but_o little_a they_o have_v forethink_v of_o sickness_n &_o the_o tentation_n accompany_v it_o &_o now_o call_v to_o mind_n &_o execute_v former_a resolution_n make_v to_o improove_v for_o their_o soul_n advancement_n all_o state_n &_o condition_n &_o by_o occasion_n of_o their_o present_a corporal_a infirmity_n or_o pain_n to_o fortify_v in_o their_o mind_n the_o virtue_n of_o patience_n resignation_n contempt_n of_o the_o world_n &_o adhesion_n to_o god_n thus_o sickness_n prove_v to_o they_o a_o great_a blessing_n than_o health_n and_o if_o they_o do_v recover_v they_o do_v yet_o more_o serious_o &_o feruorous_o perform_v their_o former_a exercise_n 9_o when_o sickness_n be_v actual_o come_v a_o soul_n be_v to_o accept_v &_o embrace_v it_o as_o a_o special_a gift_n of_o god_n yea_o though_o such_o sickness_n happen_v through_o the_o person_n own_o intemperance_n or_o other_o fault_n as_o a_o malefactor_n be_v oblige_v with_o resignation_n to_o accept_v of_o death_n deserve_v for_o some_o crime_n he_o ought_v indeed_o to_o be_v penitent_a &_o sorry_a for_o the_o fault_n which_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o such_o a_o harmful_a effect_n but_o the_o effect_n itself_o he_o ought_v to_o consider_v as_o proceed_v from_o the_o divine_a will_n and_o providence_n yea_o in_o such_o case_n a_o soul_n may_v even_o rejoice_v that_o god_n be_v so_o merciful_a as_o to_o bring_v on_o she_o the_o smart_n and_o punishment_n of_o her_o sin_n in_o this_o world_n give_v she_o withal_o a_o profitable_a occasion_n to_o exercise_v her_o resignation_n from_o whence_o she_o may_v infer_v a_o hope_n that_o he_o will_v therefore_o spare_v she_o after_o this_o life_n 10._o a_o soul_n must_v not_o forbear_v this_o willing_a acceptation_n of_o sickness_n &c._n &c._n because_o perhaps_o she_o find_v great_a resistance_n thereto_o in_o sensuality_n yea_o she_o ought_v therefore_o the_o rather_o to_o accept_v it_o as_o know_v that_o it_o be_v the_o superior_a will_n &_o not_o the_o will_n of_o sensuality_n that_o merit_v or_o demerit_v and_o so_o do_v the_o repugnance_n of_o sensuality_n will_v as_o well_o as_o the_o sickness_n turn_v to_o the_o merit_n &_o advancement_n of_o the_o soul_n 11._o now_o a_o soul_n must_v not_o content_v herself_o for_o once_o or_o twice_o to_o accept_v sickness_n but_o she_o must_v practice_v this_o almost_o continual_o and_o especial_o when_o any_o extraordinary_a pain_n or_o irkesomenes_n do_v afflict_v she_o and_o such_o acceptation_n must_v be_v not_o only_o for_o the_o present_a but_o with_o a_o mind_n willing_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o divine_a will_n if_o his_o pleasure_n be_v that_o such_o pain_n shall_v continue_v never_o so_o long_o 12._o she_o must_v particular_o take_v heed_n of_o one_o notable_a tentation_n which_o often_o befall_v good_a but_o imperfect_a soul_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o they_o yield_v too_o free_o to_o impatience_n in_o sickness_n which_o be_v this_o nature_n be_v soon_o weary_a of_o suffer_v will_v suggest_v unto_o the_o soul_n to_o justify_v impatience_n among_o other_o incommodity_n of_o sickness_n this_o one_o that_o thereby_o she_o be_v put_v in_o a_o incapacity_n to_o pray_v or_o otherwise_o to_o serve_v god_n or_o her_o neighbour_n upon_o which_o she_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o desire_v health_n with_o impatience_n false_o justify_v herself_o for_o such_o impatience_n as_o if_o she_o do_v not_o so_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o nature_n but_o to_o the_o end_n she_o may_v perform_v spiritual_a duty_n more_o perfect_o but_o this_o be_v a_o mere_a delusion_n for_o that_o be_v the_o true_a &_o perfect_a way_n of_o serve_v god_n which_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o present_a condition_n wherein_o god_n have_v place_v a_o soul_n &_o a_o imperfect_a interrupt_a prayer_n make_v with_o resignation_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o pain_n or_o trouble_v send_v by_o god_n be_v perhaps_o more_o efficacious_a to_o procure_v the_o good_a of_o the_o soul_n than_o the_o high_a elevation_n exercise_v otherwise_o 13._o it_o be_v no_o great_a matter_n though_o the_o soul_n herself_o do_v not_o distinct_o &_o clear_o see_v how_o her_o present_a suffering_n external_a or_o internal_a may_v be_v profitable_a to_o she_o she_o be_v to_o refer_v all_o thing_n to_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n &_o goodness_n of_o god_n who_o can_v bring_v light_a out_o of_o darkness_n and_o therefore_o she_o must_v be_v content_v if_o such_o be_v his_o will_n to_o be_v blindfolded_a &_o humble_o to_o remain_v in_o her_o simplicity_n &_o in_o a_o reverential_a awe_n &_o admiration_n of_o the_o inscrutable_a way_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n 14._o a_o sick_a person_n be_v to_o account_v himself_o after_o a_o especial_a manner_n in_o god_n hand_n as_o his_o prisoner_n chain_v as_o it_o be_v by_o his_o own_o weakness_n disable_v from_o the_o ordinary_a solace_n of_o conversation_n walk_v &c_n &c_n debar_v from_o eat_v what_o please_v the_o palate_n become_v profitable_a to_o none_o troublesome_a &_o chargeable_a to_o many_o expose_v ofttimes_o to_o bitter_a pain_n &_o sharp_a remedy_n of_o such_o pain_n &c_n &c_n a_o grievous_a indeed_o but_o yet_o a_o happy_a prison_n this_o be_v to_o a_o soul_n that_o will_v make_v a_o good_a use_n of_o it_o for_o unless_o the_o internal_a taste_n of_o the_o soul_n also_o be_v deprave_a she_o may_v by_o this_o occasion_n infinite_o increase_v in_o spiritual_a liberty_n health_n &_o strength_n by_o accept_v with_o indifference_n these_o incommodity_n &_o mortify_v her_o natural_a exorbitant_a desire_n of_o remedy_n not_o desire_v to_o escape_v but_o when_o &_o after_o what_o manner_n god_n shall_v ordain_v 15._o but_o to_o speak_v more_o particular_o touch_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o soul_n during_o sickness_n she_o be_v to_o assure_v herself_o of_o this_o one_o thing_n that_o if_o she_o think_v that_o her_o sickness_n may_v justify_v her_o neglect_n of_o her_o spiritual_a exercise_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n the_o essential_a duty_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n if_o these_o be_v not_o continue_v as_o well_o in_o sickness_n as_o health_n the_o soul_n herself_o will_v become_v the_o more_o sick_a of_o the_o two_o &_o expose_v to_o great_a danger_n than_o the_o body_n for_o most_o certain_o if_o sickness_n do_v not_o produce_v good_a effect_n of_o patience_n &_o resignation_n &c_n &c_n in_o the_o soul_n it_o will_v produce_v the_o quite_o contrary_a and_o such_o effect_n
can_v be_v produce_v but_o only_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n 16._o first_o therefore_o for_o mortification_n this_o be_v indeed_o the_o proper_a time_n wherein_o it_o be_v most_o seasonable_a &_o necessary_a store_n of_o matter_n for_o that_o virtue_n be_v almost_o incessant_o afford_v paines_n weakness_n &c_n &c_n in_o the_o body_n &_o grief_n fear_n &_o other_o disquiet_v passion_n in_o the_o mind_n which_o be_v oft_o more_o insupportable_a than_o outward_a torment_n all_o these_o tentation_n the_o soul_n must_v be_v arm_v against_o 17._o now_o among_o all_o internal_a tentation_n the_o great_a &_o most_o painful_a be_v fear_n of_o death_n &_o especial_o of_o the_o consequent_n of_o it_o judgement_n &_o hell_n without_o which_o death_n to_o a_o faithful_a christian_n can_v not_o rational_o be_v the_o object_n of_o fear_n as_o he_o that_o know_v it_o to_o be_v the_o universal_a inheritance_n of_o mankind_n &_o to_o christian_n the_o door_n of_o eternal_a happiness_n in_o case_n therefore_o that_o such_o fear_n of_o death_n do_v remain_v in_o inferior_a nature_n the_o superior_a reason_n ought_v to_o contradict_v it_o &_o use_v it_o as_o a_o subject_n of_o a_o very_a healthful_a mortification_n 18._o but_o as_o for_o the_o other_o far_o more_o considerable_a more_o inward_a &_o painful_a subject_n of_o fear_n which_o be_v the_o uncertainty_n of_o a_o future_a eternal_a condition_n after_o death_n the_o which_o do_v usual_o much_o afflict_v &_o deject_v imperfect_a soul_n that_o be_v conscious_a of_o their_o manifold_a defect_n small_a satisfaction_n pay_v for_o they_o great_a weakness_n of_o divine_a love_n a_o proof_n whereof_o be_v this_o very_a fear_n which_o will_v be_v expel_v if_o charity_n be_v perfect_a it_o be_v a_o hard_a matter_n to_o encourage_v such_o soul_n against_o it_o or_o to_o persuade_v they_o to_o mortify_v it_o and_o resign_v themselves_o willing_o to_o support_v it_o it_o be_v indeed_o very_o profitable_a &_o healthful_a to_o the_o soul_n on_o the_o contrary_n they_o think_v resignation_n in_o this_o case_n to_o be_v scarce_o a_o fit_v or_o lawful_a thing_n though_o most_o certain_o it_o be_v so_o 19_o i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o such_o soul_n ought_v to_o bring_v themselves_o to_o a_o indifference_n what_o way_n they_o shall_v be_v dispose_v of_o after_o death_n but_o the_o point_n of_o resignation_n lie_v in_o this_o that_o a_o soul_n ought_v to_o content_v herself_o not_o to_o know_v how_o &_o in_o what_o manner_n god_n will_v dispose_v of_o she_o after_o death_n her_o anchor_n be_v hope_n which_o she_o ought_v to_o cherish_v and_o fortify_v all_o she_o can_v and_o the_o best_a way_n for_o soul_n to_o fortify_v that_o be_v to_o make_v as_o few_o reflection_n on_o themselves_o as_o may_v be_v and_o to_o employ_v all_o their_o thought_n and_o affection_n direct_o upon_o god_n it_o be_v divine_a love_n alone_o that_o be_v at_o least_o the_o principal_a virtue_n that_o bring_v soul_n to_o beatitude_n and_o therefore_o fearful_a soul_n though_o they_o be_v in_o as_o dangerous_a a_o state_n as_o they_o suspect_v must_v needs_o rational_o argue_v thus_o that_o the_o way_n to_o procure_v &_o strengthen_v love_n be_v by_o fix_v their_o mind_n upon_o the_o mercy_n goodness_n &_o perfection_n of_o god_n &_o to_o contradict_v or_o forget_v all_o argument_n or_o motive_n of_o servile_a fear_n the_o great_a enemy_n of_o love._n what_o folly_n be_v it_o because_o they_o be_v imperfect_a therefore_o wilful_o to_o continue_v in_o their_o imperfection_n by_o nourish_a fear_n sure_o at_o the_o close_a of_o our_o life_n we_o ought_v to_o practice_v after_o the_o best_a manner_n we_o can_v the_o best_a action_n and_o most_o acceptable_a to_o god_n which_o be_v to_o relinquish_v ourselves_o and_o to_o contemplate_v trust_n rely_v &_o role_n ourselves_o upon_o he_o 20._o let_v the_o afflict_a soul_n therefore_o herein_o as_o in_o all_o other_o matter_n not_o only_o with_o patience_n support_v such_o a_o ignorance_n but_o with_o a_o amorous_a resignation_n congratulate_v with_o god_n his_o eternal_a most_o secret_a purpose_n and_o decree_n concern_v she_o both_o for_o time_n and_o eternity_n free_o consent_v &_o agree_v to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o such_o secret_n shall_v be_v reserve_v to_o his_o own_o breast_n hide_v from_o our_o knowledge_n therein_o acknowledge_v his_o divine_a wisdom_n and_o goodness_n which_o move_v he_o doubtless_o for_o our_o good_a to_o conceal_v from_o we_o those_o thing_n the_o knowledge_n of_o which_o will_v have_v breed_v security_n negligence_n and_o perhaps_o pride_n in_o our_o corrupt_a heart_n let_v her_o desire_n be_v to_o know_v nothing_o &_o to_o have_v nothing_o but_o what_o when_o &_o in_o what_o manner_n it_o do_v please_v almighty_a god_n 21._o such_o behaviour_n of_o she_o towards_o her_o creator_n and_o redeemer_n to_o who_o she_o belong_v both_o for_o she_o be_v and_o manner_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v most_o just_a &_o reasonable_a so_o it_o will_v make_v she_o most_o acceptable_a to_o god_n &_o in_o conclusion_n most_o assure_o bring_v she_o to_o happiness_n whereas_o to_o be_v deject_a &_o disquiet_v because_o god_n will_v not_o reveal_v his_o secret_a purpose_n to_o she_o be_v most_o unreasonable_a and_o can_v proceed_v from_o no_o other_o ground_n but_o natural_a pride_n &_o self_n love_n and_o to_o give_v a_o deliberate_a scope_n to_o unquietnes_n so_o ground_v be_v both_o dishonourable_a to_o god_n and_o utter_o useless_a to_o the_o soul_n herself_o for_o assure_o god_n will_v not_o to_o satisfy_v the_o inordinate_a desire_n of_o nature_n alter_v the_o course_n of_o his_o divine_a providence_n 22._o it_o do_v not_o hinder_v or_o abate_v the_o tranquillity_n of_o adam_n state_n in_o innocence_n that_o he_o be_v uncertain_a of_o perseverance_n yea_o though_o he_o know_v that_o one_o sin_n commit_v will_v exclude_v he_o utter_o from_o his_o present_a happiness_n whereas_o in_o our_o present_a state_n after_o thousand_o of_o sin_n one_o act_n of_o true_a conversion_n to_o god_n &_o amorous_a resignation_n to_o his_o will_n be_v able_a to_o restore_v us._n 23._o let_v the_o soul_n withal_o consider_v that_o he_o which_o have_v deny_v unto_o her_o a_o assurance_n &_o forbid_v she_o to_o presume_v have_v yet_o command_v she_o to_o hope_v &_o to_o comfort_v herself_o in_o that_o hope_n let_v she_o therefore_o frequent_o &_o serious_o exercise_v act_n of_o hope_n how_o little_a gust_n soever_o sensuality_n find_v in_o they_o for_o the_o great_a repugnance_n there_o be_v in_o inferior_a nature_n the_o more_o generous_a be_v such_o act_n &_o more_o acceptable_a to_o god_n the_o which_o act_n be_v to_o be_v ground_v not_o upon_o any_o conceit_n of_o our_o own_o innocency_n or_o worth_a for_o if_o the_o soul_n be_v never_o so_o perfect_a yet_o a_o conceit_n of_o she_o own_o innocency_n will_v be_v but_o a_o rot_a foundation_n of_o hope_n which_o shall_v regard_v only_o the_o free_a mercy_n of_o god_n the_o merit_n of_o his_o son_n etc._n etc._n 24._o moreover_o let_v she_o exercise_v these_o act_v not_o as_o act_n of_o her_o own_o will_n but_o far_o more_o perfect_o &_o divine_o as_o act_n of_o god_n own_o will_n who_o have_v command_v we_o thus_o to_o hope_n she_o may_v withal_o if_o need_v be_v make_v use_n of_o consideration_n &_o motive_n in_o the_o understanding_n by_o read_v or_o hear_v comfortable_a promise_n in_o scripture_n &c_n &c_n to_o incline_v the_o will_n to_o conform_v itself_o to_o the_o divine_a will_n to_o which_o conformity_n when_o a_o soul_n shall_v once_o perfect_o be_v bring_v there_o remain_v to_o she_o no_o hell_n nor_o purgatory_n no_o more_o then_o to_o god_n himself_o for_o where_o there_o be_v no_o propriety_n of_o will_n there_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o divine_a will_n which_o be_v god_n himself_o and_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o this_o conformity_n such_o will_v be_v the_o measure_n of_o our_o happiness_n 25._o as_o for_o other_o internal_a pain_n &_o anguish_n arise_v from_o other_o ground_n as_o scrupulosity_n about_o confession_n etc._n etc._n the_o instruction_n former_o deliver_v in_o the_o second_o treatise_n be_v to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o especial_o those_o of_o submit_v absolute_o to_o the_o advice_n of_o a_o spiritual_a director_n &_o of_o transcend_v all_o imagination_n &_o all_o rise_n in_o inferior_a nature_n and_o sure_o now_o above_o all_o other_o time_n the_o soul_n be_v to_o be_v careful_a not_o to_o yield_v to_o the_o suggestion_n of_o fear_n which_o be_v the_o only_a tentation_n leave_v by_o which_o the_o devil_n can_v disquiet_v tender_a soul_n to_o who_o now_o pleasure_n &_o ambition_n &c_n &c_n have_v lose_v all_o taste_n &_o so_o draw_v they_o from_o god_n &_o resignation_n to_o he_o from_o confidence_n in_o his_o mercy_n etc._n etc._n for_o which_o virtue_n this_o
from_o your_o labour_n succeed_v what_o may_v succeed_v though_o it_o cost_v never_o so_o great_a a_o price_n &_o never_o so_o much_o travel_v let_v who_o will_v murmur_v at_o it_o whether_o we_o attain_v to_o it_o or_o die_v in_o the_o way_n although_o the_o heart_n faint_a and_o break_v asunder_o with_o the_o excessive_a pain_n undergo_v for_o it_o yea_o though_o all_o the_o world_n be_v in_o a_o uproar_n against_o it_o and_o will_v fright_v we_o with_o tell_v of_o the_o danger_n that_o be_v in_o the_o way_n the_o four_o section_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n of_o contemplation_n chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2._o of_o contemplation_n in_o general_a what_o it_o be_v §_o 3._o 4._o contemplation_n be_v twofold_a viz_o first_o philosophical_a of_o which_o there_o be_v several_a sort_n §_o 5._o 6._o &c_n &c_n second_o mystical_a what_o it_o be_v §_o 9_o mystic_a contemplation_n or_o union_n be_v 1._o active_a 2._o passive_a §_o 10._o 11._o etc._n etc._n of_o active_a mystic_a union_n the_o nature_n and_o manner_n of_o it_o whether_o the_o internal_a sense_n be_v use_v in_o it_o etc._n etc._n §_o 16._o a_o mistake_n of_o some_o concern_v this_o contemplation_n §_o 17._o 18._o the_o divine_a excellency_n of_o it_o §_o 19_o 20._o whether_o there_o be_v several_a state_n of_o it_o hitherto_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o devout_a soul_n have_v be_v exceed_o laborious_a in_o which_o she_o have_v be_v oblige_v to_o use_v force_n and_o constraint_n more_o or_o less_o upon_o herself_o to_o elevate_v the_o will_n above_o all_o create_a thing_n and_o to_o apply_v it_o unto_o god_n she_o have_v struggle_v through_o terrible_a opposition_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o corrupt_a nature_n the_o instability_n of_o the_o imagination_n tumultuosnes_n of_o passion_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o will_v hinder_v her_o perseverance_n in_o her_o recollection_n but_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o pursue_v they_o still_o sometime_o in_o light_n and_o sometime_o in_o darkness_n sometime_o allure_v by_o sweetness_n and_o again_o sometime_o afflict_v but_o not_o discourage_v with_o desolation_n in_o the_o end_n god_n crown_n her_o courage_n and_o patience_n by_o exalt_v she_o to_o a_o new_a more_o perfect_a and_o divine_a exercise_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o union_n or_o contemplation_n 2._o contemplation_n in_o the_o accept_v general_a notion_n of_o the_o word_n signify_v a_o clear_a ready_a mental_a see_v &_o quiet_a regard_n of_o a_o object_n be_v the_o result_n and_o effect_n of_o a_o precedent_n diligent_a and_o laborious_a enquiry_n &_o search_n after_o the_o nature_n quality_n dependence_n and_o other_o circumstantial_a condition_n of_o it_o 3._o now_o according_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o object_n contemplate_v and_o the_o disposition_n or_o end_n of_o the_o person_n contemplate_v there_o be_v several_a sort_n of_o contemplation_n at_o least_o so_o call_v for_o in_o the_o first_o place_n ancient_o there_o be_v a_o certain_a kind_n of_o false_a contemplation_n which_o we_o may_v call_v philosophical_a practise_v by_o some_o learned_a heathen_n of_o old_a and_o imitate_v by_o some_o in_o these_o day_n which_o have_v for_o its_o last_o and_o best_a end_n only_o the_o perfection_n of_o knowledge_n &_o a_o delightful_a complacency_n in_o it_o other_o there_o be_v &_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v be_v still_o that_o content_v themselves_o with_o a_o airy_a vain_a renown_n which_o they_o hope_v to_o gain_v by_o their_o knowledge_n so_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v the_o object_n of_o their_o contemplation_n whether_o thing_n natural_a moral_a yea_o or_o even_o divine_a as_o far_o as_o by_o wit_n and_o subtlety_n or_o tradition_n they_o can_v be_v know_v self-love_n &_o pride_n be_v the_o utmost_a end_n of_o all_o these_o contemplatour_n yea_o to_o this_o rank_n of_o philosophical_a contemplatour_n may_v be_v refer_v those_o scholastic_a wit_n which_o spend_v much_o time_n in_o the_o study_n and_o subtle_a examination_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o faith_n and_o have_v not_o for_o their_o end_n the_o increase_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o their_o heart_n nay_o these_o be_v indeed_o more_o imperfect_a and_o culpable_a say_v albertus_n magnus_fw-la lib._n de_fw-fr adhaer_fw-mi deo_fw-la in_o as_o much_o as_o they_o offend_v against_o a_o great_a and_o supernatural_a light_n 4._o yea_o &_o those_o among_o they_o that_o do_v true_o intend_v as_o their_o last_o and_o principal_a end_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o seek_v his_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v the_o best_a sort_n of_o scholastic_a contemplative_n yet_o since_o their_o chief_a employment_n consist_v in_o much_o internal_a discourse_n and_o reason_v which_o can_v be_v practise_v without_o various_a &_o distinct_a sensible_a image_n by_o which_o to_o represent_v god_n etc._n etc._n the_o knowledge_n with_o they_o attain_v to_o be_v not_o proper_o contemplative_a &_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o prayer_n that_o they_o arrive_v unto_o be_v only_o a_o perfect_a kind_n of_o meditation_n 5._o in_o the_o second_o place_n there_o be_v a_o mystic_a contemplation_n which_o be_v indeed_o true_o and_o proper_o such_o by_o which_o a_o soul_n without_o discourse_n &_o curious_a speculation_n without_o any_o perceptible_a use_n of_o the_o internal_a sense_n or_o sensible_a image_n by_o a_o pure_a simple_a &_o reposefull_a operation_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o the_o obscurity_n of_o faith_n simple_o regard_v god_n as_o infinite_a &_o incomprehensible_a verity_n &_o with_o the_o whole_a bent_n of_o the_o will_n rest_v in_o he_o as_o her_z infinite_a universal_a &_o incomprehensible_a good_a this_o be_v true_a contemplation_n indeed_o and_o as_o rest_n be_v the_o end_n of_o motion_n so_o be_v this_o the_o end_n of_o all_o other_o both_o internal_a &_o externall_n exercise_n for_o therefore_o by_o long_a discourse_n &_o much_o practice_n of_o affection_n the_o soul_n inquire_v &_o tend_v to_o a_o worthy_a object_n that_o she_o may_v quiet_o contemplate_v it_o &_o if_o it_o deserve_v affection_n repose_v which_o contentment_n in_o it_o 6._o so_o it_o be_v in_o prayer_n the_o soul_n aspire_v to_o a_o perfect_a union_n with_o god_n as_o yet_o absent_a begin_v with_o enquiry_n by_o meditation_n for_o as_o s._n augustin_n say_v intellectus_fw-la cogitabundus_fw-la principium_fw-la omnis_fw-la boni_fw-la that_o be_v all_o good_a proceed_v from_o the_o understanding_n as_o its_o first_o principle_n by_o meditation_n the_o soul_n labour_v to_o represent_v this_o divine_a object_n with_o all_o the_o sensible_a advantage_n &_o motive_n of_o admiration_n and_o of_o love_n that_o it_o can_v invent_v to_o the_o end_n the_o will_n by_o pure_a love_n may_v rest_v in_o he_o but_o this_o be_v do_v the_o will_n be_v not_o yet_o at_o free_a liberty_n to_o dispose_v of_o itself_o be_v force_v with_o some_o violence_n to_o untwine_v &_o withdraw_v its_o adhesion_n from_o creature_n that_o it_o may_v elevate_v itself_o &_o be_v firm_o fix_v to_o this_o her_o only_a good_n and_o at_o last_o by_o long_a custom_n the_o force_n by_o little_a &_o little_a diminish_n the_o object_n begin_v to_o appear_v in_o its_o own_o perfect_a light_n and_o the_o affection_n flow_v free_o but_o yet_o with_o a_o wonderful_a stillnes_n to_o it_o and_o then_o such_o soul_n be_v say_v to_o be_v arrive_v to_o perfect_a mystical_a union_n or_o contemplation_n 7._o this_o be_v proper_o the_o exercise_n of_o angel_n for_o their_o knowledge_n be_v not_o by_o discourse_n but_o by_o one_o simple_a intuition_n all_o object_n be_v represent_v to_o their_o view_v at_o once_o with_o all_o their_o nature_n quality_n relation_n dependence_n &_o effect_n but_o man_n that_o receive_v all_o his_o knowledge_n first_o from_o his_o sense_n can_v only_o by_o effect_n &_o outward_a appearance_n with_o the_o labour_n of_o reason_v collect_v the_o nature_n of_o object_n &_o this_o but_o imperfect_o but_o his_o reason_v be_v end_v than_o he_o can_v at_o once_o contemplate_v all_o that_o be_v know_v unto_o he_o in_o the_o object_n 8._o now_o in_o holy_a scripture_n our_o chief_a happiness_n &_o perfection_n be_v say_v to_o consist_v in_o this_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v like_a unto_o angel_n both_o in_o our_o knowledge_n &_o love_n for_o we_o shall_v as_o they_o have_v a_o perfect_a view_v &_o contemplatton_n of_o god_n as_o he_o be_v not_o by_o any_o create_a form_n &_o representation_n and_o so_o beatifical_a shall_v that_o contemplation_n be_v that_o it_o will_v for_o ever_o ingulfe_a all_o our_o affection_n but_o in_o this_o life_n our_o perfection_n will_v consist_v in_o approach_v as_o near_o as_o may_v be_v to_o such_o a_o angelical_a contemplation_n of_o god_n without_o sensible_a form_n &_o as_o he_o be_v indeed_o propose_v by_o faith_n that_o be_v not_o proper_o represent_v but_o obscure_a notion_n imprint_v in_o our_o mind_n concern_v he_o by_o which_o we_o do_v perceive_v that_o he_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n that_o we_o can_v perceive_v or_o
which_o in_o some_o soul_n during_o this_o exercise_n flow_v from_o the_o spirit_n into_o inferior_a nature_n he_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o iniect_v his_o bait_n a_o humble_a and_o perfect_o mortify_a soul_n will_v easy_o turn_v his_o malice_n to_o her_o own_o good_a and_o the_o enemy_n confusion_n 25._o three_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o understanding_n whereas_o it_o be_v before_o all_o be_v paint_v with_o image_n of_o creature_n yea_o when_o it_o regard_v god_n it_o see_v he_o by_o a_o image_n of_o its_o own_o create_v now_o the_o soul_n lose_v all_o remembrance_n of_o itself_o and_o of_o all_o create_a thing_n and_o all_o that_o she_o retain_v of_o god_n be_v a_o remembrance_n that_o he_o can_v be_v see_v nor_o comprehend_v all_o creature_n therefore_o be_v remove_v and_o no_o particular_a distinct_a image_n of_o god_n admit_v there_o remain_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o mind_n as_o it_o be_v a_o nothing_n and_o mere_a emptiness_n the_o which_o nothing_o be_v more_o worth_a than_o all_o creature_n for_o it_o be_v all_o that_o we_o can_v know_v of_o god_n in_o this_o life_n this_o nothing_o be_v the_o rich_a inheritance_n of_o perfect_a soul_n who_o perceive_v clear_o that_o god_n be_v nothing_o of_o all_o that_o may_v be_v comprehend_v by_o our_o sense_n or_o understanding_n the_o state_n therefore_o of_o such_o soul_n for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v knowledge_n be_v worthy_o call_v the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a and_o the_o cloud_n of_o forget_v by_o the_o author_n of_o that_o sublime_a treatise_n so_o call_v and_o this_o be_v the_o perfect_a and_o most_o angelical_a know_v that_o a_o soul_n be_v capable_a of_o in_o this_o life_n now_o this_o perception_n of_o this_o nothing_o do_v appear_v more_o clear_o and_o comfortable_o the_o long_o that_o a_o soul_n remain_v under_o this_o cloud_n &_o darkness_n where_o god_n dwell_v be_v for_o as_o the_o psalmist_n say_v this_o darkness_n be_v immediate_o under_o his_o foot_n this_o knowledge_n of_o nothing_o be_v by_o f._n benet_n canfield_n call_v a_o active_a annihilation_n 26._o four_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o will_n it_o be_v in_o this_o exercise_n so_o whole_o possess_v and_o inflame_v with_o divine_a love_n the_o which_o do_v so_o intime_o prenetrate_v into_o the_o very_a centre_n of_o it_o that_o it_o be_v become_v like_o fiery_a burn_a steel_n clean_a through_o shine_v with_o this_o fire_n it_o be_v now_o a_o will_n deiforme_a and_o in_o a_o manner_n deify_v for_o it_o be_v so_o close_o unite_v and_o hide_a in_o the_o divine_a will_n that_o god_n may_v be_v say_v to_o will_n and_o do_v all_o thing_n in_o and_o by_o she_o 27._o five_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o whole_a person_n till_o a_o soul_n be_v arrive_v unto_o this_o exercise_n she_o never_o attain_v to_o a_o perfect_a possession_n of_o all_o virtue_n universal_o they_o be_v indeed_o all_o in_o a_o inferior_a degree_n and_o with_o much_o mixture_n of_o natural_a sensual_a end_n produce_v by_o the_o former_a exercise_n and_o if_o some_o special_a virtue_n seem_v to_o be_v in_o a_o high_a degree_n it_o be_v either_o because_o nature_n dispose_v more_o to_o they_o or_o because_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o may_v be_v more_o suitable_a to_o some_o design_n of_o nature_n but_o assoon_o as_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n divine_a love_n be_v far_o more_o perfect_o exercise_v the_o very_a root_n of_o all_o sin_n self_n love_n be_v destroy_v &_o purity_n of_o intention_n be_v practise_v to_o god_n for_o himself_o only_o and_o only_o by_o his_o instruction_n and_o motion_n the_o divine_a love_n that_o the_o soul_n exercise_v before_o be_v immediate_o upon_o herself_o with_o relation_n to_o god_n and_o not_o direct_o and_o immediate_o to_o god_n himself_o or_o if_o so_o sometime_o yet_o it_o be_v with_o reflection_n upon_o herself_o but_o in_o aspiration_n she_o exercise_n love_v only_o to_o god_n himself_o without_o reflection_n which_o can_v be_v exercise_v but_o by_o soul_n perfect_o mortify_v be_v the_o high_a mystic_a contemplation_n possible_a to_o be_v exercise_v in_o this_o life_n for_o as_o alphonsus_n madriliensis_n say_v a_o soul_n be_v never_o able_a to_o to_o produce_v a_o proper_a act_n of_o love_n to_o god_n till_o she_o have_v first_o get_v a_o perfect_a hatred_n of_o herself_o which_o be_v the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o mortification_n the_o which_o once_o attain_v she_o be_v ripe_a for_o a_o passive_a union_n and_o perhaps_o at_o the_o very_a door_n of_o it_o 28._o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n and_o likewise_o barbanson_n do_v with_o great_a reason_n teach_v that_o after_o a_o soul_n be_v mount_v to_o this_o degree_n of_o exercise_v love_n constant_o by_o aspiration_n she_o be_v not_o in_o any_o difficulty_n aridity_n &c_n &c_n to_o descend_v to_o any_o inferior_a exercise_n herein_o differ_v from_o f._n benet_n canfield_n and_o some_o other_o who_o require_v some_o exercise_n of_o the_o passion_n in_o all_o estate_n chap._n iii_o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o union_n to_o wit_n passive_a §_o 3._o 4._o &c_n &c_n of_o several_a sort_n of_o passive_a union_n and_o first_o of_o such_o as_o be_v sensible_a exterior_o or_o interior_o §_o 6._o 7._o &c_n &c_n of_o rapt_n and_o ecstasy_n etc._n etc._n §_o 9_o 10._o &c_n &c_n rule_n of_o discern_v true_a ecstasy_n &_o apparition_n from_o false_a §_o 22._o 23._o &c_n &c_n how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o with_o humility_n &_o disaffection_n in_o regard_n of_o these_o extraordinary_a favour_n §_o 26._o 27._o &c_n &c_n in_o what_o case_n the_o judgement_n of_o a_o prudent_a director_n be_v necessary_a §_o 36._o 37._o &c_n &c_n in_o what_o case_n some_o soul_n may_v follow_v theâ—â—_n own_o light_n §_o 39_o 40._o in_o what_o sense_n ecstasy_n be_v supernatural_a 1._o hitherto_o of_o the_o exercise_n of_o perfect_a active_a union_n or_o contemplation_n i_o call_v it_o perfect_a because_o though_o in_o every_o degree_n of_o prayer_n there_o be_v a_o proportionable_a degree_n of_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o god_n â—et_o perfect_a union_n be_v only_o in_o this_o of_o aspiration_n but_o so_o as_o that_o it_o may_v increase_v in_o degree_n and_o grow_v more_o and_o more_o immediate_a without_o all_o limit_n but_o how_o much_o soever_o it_o increase_v it_o will_v never_o exceed_v that_o obscure_a light_n which_o faith_n afford_v which_o be_v the_o perfect_a light_n that_o we_o can_v have_v in_o this_o life_n for_o to_o see_v god_n as_o he_o be_v be_v reserve_v for_o the_o future_a life_n now_o though_o even_o the_o most_o imperfect_a have_v this_o light_n of_o faith_n yet_o in_o their_o inferior_a contemplation_n they_o do_v for_o the_o most_o part_n make_v use_n of_o and_o follow_v their_o natural_a light_n regard_v such_o image_n and_o representation_n of_o god_n as_o they_o frame_v in_o their_o imagination_n or_o by_o discourse_n but_o in_o perfect_a contemplation_n this_o light_n of_o faith_n be_v the_o only_a light_n 2._o but_o beside_o these_o active_a union_n there_o be_v other_o union_n and_o contemplation_n which_o be_v passive_a and_o extraordinary_a by_o which_o god_n reveile_v himself_o unto_o the_o soul_n by_o a_o supernatural_a species_n impress_v in_o she_o in_o which_o he_o be_v the_o only_a agent_n and_o she_o the_o patient_n not_o as_o if_o when_o a_o soul_n do_v contemplate_v god_n she_o be_v not_o in_o some_o sort_n active_a but_o because_o by_o no_o disposition_n or_o preparation_n that_o the_o soul_n can_v use_v can_v she_o assure_o procure_v they_o but_o when_o god_n be_v please_v gracious_o to_o communicate_v they_o the_o soul_n be_v take_v out_o of_o her_o own_o disposal_n and_o do_v and_o must_v see_v &_o think_v only_o what_o god_n will_v have_v she_o and_o this_o no_o long_o than_o his_o good_a pleasure_n be_v such_o 3._o now_o such_o supernatural_a grace_n be_v either_o 1._o sensible_n or_o 2._o pure_o intellectual_a the_o former_a be_v the_o most_o imperfect_a and_o least_o efficacious_a to_o cause_v a_o gracious_a good_a disposition_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o receive_v they_o 4._o of_o sensible_a union_n the_o most_o imperfect_a and_o least_o to_o be_v rely_v upon_o be_v 1._o those_o which_o by_o god_n be_v communicate_v to_o the_o outward_a sense_n as_o apparition_n visible_a to_o the_o eye_n word_n frame_v in_o the_o air_n by_o the_o operation_n of_o angel_n alteration_n make_v in_o the_o other_o sense_n as_o in_o the_o smell_n by_o a_o grateful_a odour_n present_v thereto_o in_o the_o palate_n by_o a_o pleasant_a taste_n cause_v therein_o etc._n etc._n of_o which_o kind_n of_o favour_n diverse_a example_n occur_v in_o spiritual_a author_n to_o which_o may_v be_v add_v the_o gift_n of_o tear_n warmth_n about_o the_o heart_n etc._n etc._n and_o which_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o high_a kind_n of_o sensible_a favour_n a_o
of_o the_o understanding_n 2._o of_o the_o will_n and_o 3._o the_o sensitive_a faculty_n likewise_o 10._o first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o understanding_n there_o be_v thereby_o a_o divine_a light_n communicate_v not_o reveal_v or_o discover_v any_o new_a verity_n but_o afford_v a_o most_o firm_a clear_a assurance_n and_o experimental_a perception_n of_o those_o verity_n of_o catholic_n religion_n which_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o faith_n the_o which_o assurance_n the_o soul_n perceive_v to_o be_v divine_o communicate_v to_o she_o 11._o o_o happy_a evidence_n of_o our_o catholic_n belief_n no_o thanks_n to_o they_o that_o believe_v after_o such_o sight_n which_o be_v more_o evident_a than_o any_o thing_n we_o see_v with_o our_o corporal_a eye_n sure_o the_o first_o knowledge_n and_o assurance_n that_o the_o primitive_a christian_n have_v of_o the_o mystery_n of_o our_o religion_n come_v by_o such_o contemplation_n communicate_v to_o the_o apostle_n &c._n &c._n as_o s._n paul_n witness_n of_o himself_o for_o one_o who_o see_v and_o even_o feel_v the_o truth_n of_o what_o they_o preach_v and_o deliver_v by_o tradition_n to_o other_o 12._o such_o contemplation_n as_o this_o make_v s._n teresa_n so_o confident_a in_o the_o point_n of_o her_o belief_n that_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o that_o she_o be_v able_a to_o dispute_v with_o and_o confound_v all_o the_o heretic_n in_o the_o world_n but_o yet_o therein_o she_o may_v perhaps_o be_v deceive_v if_o that_o god_n do_v not_o further_o enable_v she_o then_o by_o such_o contemplation_n only_o for_o though_o they_o serve_v to_o establish_v most_o firm_o her_o own_o belief_n yet_o will_v they_o not_o suffice_v to_o enable_v she_o to_o dispute_v with_o and_o convince_v other_o because_o neither_o can_v she_o intelligible_o enough_o express_v what_o she_o have_v see_v and_o if_o she_o can_v yet_o will_v not_o all_o believe_v she_o nor_o be_v they_o rational_o oblige_v to_o do_v so_o and_o therefore_o doubtless_o she_o will_v never_o have_v undertake_v of_o her_o own_o accord_n without_o a_o special_a motion_n and_o invitation_n from_o god_n to_o have_v enter_v into_o any_o such_o dispute_n indeed_o if_o god_n have_v urge_v she_o thereto_o then_o doubtless_o he_o will_v have_v give_v she_o a_o especial_a assistance_n and_o force_n 13._o a_o soul_n that_o be_v new_o awaken_v as_o it_o be_v from_o such_o a_o contemplation_n or_o union_n come_v to_o read_v the_o holy_a scripture_n or_o any_o spiritual_a book_n will_v pierce_v far_o more_o deep_o into_o the_o verity_n contain_v in_o they_o &_o will_v see_v clear_a light_n and_o feel_v far_o more_o perfect_a taste_n of_o the_o divine_a truth_n therein_o then_o ever_o before_o so_o that_o all_o the_o knowledge_n that_o she_o former_o have_v will_v seem_v unto_o her_o mere_a darkness_n and_o a_o knowledge_n of_o the_o outward_a letter_n only_o whereas_o now_o she_o penetrate_v into_o the_o internal_a spirit_n of_o the_o write_n 14._o in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o change_n that_o be_v make_v by_o this_o supernatural_a union_n with_o regard_n to_o the_o will_n &_o affection_n be_v equal_o admirable_a in_o so_o much_o as_o many_o year_n spend_v in_o mortification_n &_o other_o internal_a exercise_n will_v not_o so_o purify_v the_o soul_n as_o a_o few_o minute_n pass_v in_o such_o a_o divine_a inaction_n here_o it_o be_v indeed_o that_o a_o soul_n perfect_o feel_v she_o own_o nothing_o and_o god_n totality_n &_o thereby_o be_v strange_o advance_v in_o humility_n &_o the_o divine_a love._n for_o be_v so_o immediate_o unite_v to_o god_n so_o illustrate_v with_o his_o heavenly_a light_n &_o inflame_v with_o his_o love_n all_o creature_n &_o herself_n above_o all_o be_v become_v as_o nothing_o yea_o perfect_o odious_a to_o she_o beside_o there_o be_v many_o secret_a defect_n in_o a_o soul_n so_o subtle_a &_o intime_fw-la that_o they_o can_v neither_o he_o cure_v nor_o so_o much_o as_o discover_v but_o by_o a_o passive_a union_n in_o so_o much_o as_o hereby_o the_o soul_n be_v advance_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o manner_n &_o degree_n not_o to_o be_v imagine_v far_o more_o efficacious_o then_o by_o all_o the_o former_a action_n of_o her_o life_n put_v together_o so_o that_o the_o follow_a aspiration_n &_o elevation_n of_o the_o spirit_n become_v far_o more_o pure_a &_o efficacious_a then_o before_o and_o indeed_o be_v it_o not_o for_o such_o good_a fruit_n &_o effect_n upon_o the_o will_n such_o passive_a union_n will_v be_v little_o profitable_a unto_o the_o soul_n for_o our_o merit_n consist_v in_o our_o own_o free_a act_n produce_v in_o virtue_n of_o divine_a grace_n assist_v we_o &_o not_o in_o the_o operation_n simple_o wherein_o god_n be_v only_a agent_n &_o we_o patient_n 15._o in_o the_o three_o place_n these_o supernatural_a union_n be_v of_o that_o virtue_n that_o they_o do_v whole_o subdue_v the_o imagination_n &_o other_o internal_a sense_n to_o the_o superior_a soul_n so_o that_o they_o can_v as_o they_o listen_v wander_v to_o &_o fro_o but_o be_v reduce_v to_o such_o a_o happy_a servitude_n to_o the_o spirit_n that_o without_o any_o stress_n or_o violence_n they_o be_v bring_v to_o attend_v it_o in_o all_o its_o employment_n &_o occasion_n or_o if_o the_o imagination_n do_v sometime_o wander_v yet_o it_o never_o fasten_v itself_o with_o delight_n on_o any_o external_a perish_a object_n by_o reason_n that_o self-love_n be_v in_o a_o sort_n extinguish_v in_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o it_o may_v easy_o be_v reduce_v or_o howsoever_o by_o its_o wander_n it_o do_v not_o hinder_v or_o interrupt_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n 16._o moreover_o it_o be_v observe_v by_o mystic_n that_o soul_n which_o former_o during_o the_o precedent_n less_o perfect_a exercise_n be_v of_o quite_o different_a even_o contrary_a disposition_n &_o natural_a complexion_n after_o such_o supernatural_a union_n do_v come_v to_o a_o very_a near_o resemblance_n to_o one_o a_o other_o as_o we_o see_v that_o several_a way_n or_o path_n which_o from_o far_o distant_a place_n lead_v to_o a_o city_n the_o near_o they_o approach_v to_o the_o city_n the_o near_a also_o do_v they_o come_v to_o one_o a_o other_o &_o at_o last_o fall_n into_o &_o make_v one_o common_a high_a way_n and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v because_o nature_n &_o its_o particular_a affection_n &_o inclination_n be_v now_o so_o wear_v &_o even_o burn_v out_o by_o the_o fire_n of_o divine_a love_n &_o grace_n that_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o only_a principle_n of_o all_o their_o action_n the_o which_o therefore_o must_v needs_o be_v uniform_a &_o like_a to_o one_o another_o 17._o it_o will_v be_v no_o wonder_n if_o these_o thing_n here_o speak_v of_o a_o supernatural_a passive_a union_n shall_v seem_v incredible_a or_o perhaps_o to_o be_v but_o dream_n of_o extravagant_a or_o melancholic_a spirit_n not_o only_o to_o those_o that_o be_v stranger_n from_o the_o catholic_a faith_n but_o those_o catholic_n also_o that_o be_v unexperienced_a in_o internal_a way_n yet_o if_o they_o will_v consider_v that_o all_o this_o have_v be_v deliver_v by_o the_o testimony_n of_o most_o devout_a humble_a &_o spiritual_o prudent_a person_n some_o of_o they_o very_o learn_v also_o who_o profess_v to_o write_v nothing_o but_o what_o themselves_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o and_o this_o by_o a_o internal_a command_n of_o god_n spirit_n &_o for_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o they_o will_v perhaps_o judge_v more_o wary_o of_o these_o thing_n and_o withal_o consider_v that_o out_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n no_o such_o divine_a grace_n and_o communication_n be_v ever_o hear_v of_o they_o will_v however_o reap_v this_o benefit_n by_o they_o if_o not_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o the_o best_a they_o can_v for_o the_o enjoy_v they_o at_o least_o they_o will_v abhor_v all_o novelty_n in_o doctrine_n &_o continue_v unshake_a and_o obedient_a child_n to_o the_o church_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o of_o the_o great_a desolation_n usual_o follow_v a_o intellectual_a passive_a union_n §_o 4._o 5._o etc._n etc._n a_o description_n of_o the_o nature_n &_o woeful_a bitterness_n of_o this_o desolation_n §_o 8._o how_o a_o devout_a soul_n do_v or_o aught_o to_o behave_v herself_o therein_o §_o 9_o the_o great_a benefit_n and_o fruit_n proceed_v from_o this_o desertion_n well_o undergo_v 1._o a_o soul_n have_v once_o experience_v such_o extraordinary_a divine_a favour_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o say_v with_o the_o psalmist_n non_fw-la movebor_fw-la in_o aeternum_fw-la i_o shall_v never_o be_v move_v thou_o lord_n of_o thy_o goodness_n have_v make_v my_o hill_n so_o strong_a but_o if_o she_o think_v so_o she_o will_v find_v herself_o strange_o deceive_v for_o as_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n consist_v of_o perpetual_a change_n of_o elevation_n and_o
depression_n &_o a_o extraordinary_a consolation_n be_v usual_o attend_v by_o succeed_a anguish_n &_o desertion_n so_o above_o all_o other_o time_n this_o so_o supereminent_a &_o so_o comfortable_a a_o divine_a visitation_n be_v common_o follow_v by_o a_o most_o terrible_a unexpected_a desolation_n a_o desolation_n so_o unsupportable_a to_o soul_n unprovided_a or_o unaware_o of_o it_o that_o many_o not_o enable_v or_o not_o well_o instruct_v how_o to_o behave_v themselves_o in_o it_o have_v lose_v all_o heart_n to_o prosecute_v internal_a way_n &_o so_o bereave_v themselves_o of_o the_o benefit_n of_o all_o their_o former_a exercise_n &_o divine_a passive_a inaction_n have_v return_v to_o a_o common_a extroverted_a life_n 2._o the_o which_o true_o be_v a_o misery_n so_o great_a and_o so_o deplorable_a that_o to_o prevent_v the_o like_a in_o other_o i_o conceive_v requisite_a to_o give_v warning_n of_o it_o and_o by_o a_o brief_a description_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o manner_n of_o such_o a_o desolation_n together_o with_o the_o good_a end_n for_o which_o god_n permit_v yea_o in_o a_o sort_n conduct_n soul_n into_o it_o to_o encourage_v they_o to_o bear_v themselves_o in_o it_o with_o patience_n resignation_n &_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n i_o shall_v be_v brief_a in_o this_o point_n remit_v the_o reader_n for_o a_o far_a explication_n of_o it_o to_o barbançon_n as_o likewise_o to_o that_o excellent_a treatise_n call_v interiour_n abnegation_n 3._o from_o the_o foresay_a sublime_a familiarity_n therefore_o and_o communication_n between_o god_n &_o his_o choose_a soul_n he_o conduct_n they_o usual_o especial_o after_o the_o first_o passive_a union_n to_o another_o far_o different_a state_n of_o pure_a sufferance_n but_o this_o be_v not_o a_o happy_a suffer_a as_o former_o from_o god_n but_o a_o woeful_a suffer_v from_o the_o soul_n herself_o for_o god_n for_o some_o time_n retire_v himself_o from_o she_o permit_v she_o to_o feel_v her_o natural_a infirmity_n and_o this_o he_o do_v by_o degree_n lest_o if_o the_o extremity_n and_o bitterness_n of_o this_o state_n do_v at_o once_o seize_v upon_o she_o she_o shall_v be_v utter_o oppress_v by_o the_o tentation_n therefore_o when_o by_o many_o inferior_a trial_n of_o her_o patience_n and_o resignation_n he_o see_v her_o strong_a &_o courageous_o resolve_v to_o follow_v he_o whithersoever_o he_o shall_v lead_v she_o than_o he_o put_v she_o to_o this_o last_o &_o of_o all_o other_o great_a trial_n 4._o for_o first_o he_o not_o only_o withdraw_v all_o comfortable_a observable_a infusion_n of_o light_n &_o grace_n but_o also_o deprive_v she_o of_o a_o power_n to_o exercise_n any_o perceptible_a operation_n of_o her_o superior_a spirit_n &_o of_o all_o comfortable_a reflection_n upon_o his_o love_n plunge_v she_o into_o the_o depth_n of_o her_o inferior_a power_n here_o consequent_o her_o former_a calmness_n of_o passion_n be_v quite_o lose_v neither_o can_v she_o interovert_v herself_o sinful_a motion_n &_o suggestion_n do_v violent_o assault_v she_o &_o she_o find_v as_o great_a difficulty_n if_o not_o great_a to_o surmount_v they_o then_o at_o the_o begin_n of_o a_o spiritual_a course_n the_o feel_n of_o all_o this_o be_v intolerable_a to_o she_o and_o thereupon_o she_o begin_v to_o suspect_v that_o by_o some_o great_a unknown_a sin_n she_o have_v procure_v all_o this_o or_o however_o that_o her_o resistance_n be_v now_o so_o feeble_a and_o inefficacious_a that_o she_o deserve_v that_o god_n shall_v quite_o cast_v hereof_o she_o find_v the_o corrupt_a inclination_n of_o her_o nature_n so_o strong_a in_o she_o that_o she_o think_v she_o be_v nothing_o but_o nature_n the_o rebelliousnes_n whereof_o &_o its_o rage_n against_o god_n be_v unexpressible_a she_o be_v now_o as_o full_a of_o image_n of_o vanity_n as_o ever_o she_o have_v be_v former_o and_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o that_o she_o have_v far_o less_o power_n to_o expel_v they_o than_o when_o she_o live_v in_o the_o world_n if_o she_o will_v elevate_v her_o spirit_n she_o see_v nothing_o but_o cloud_n &_o darkness_n she_o seek_v god_n and_o can_v find_v the_o least_o mark_n or_o footstep_n of_o his_o presence_n something_o there_o be_v that_o hinder_v she_o from_o execute_v the_o sinful_a suggestion_n within_o she_o but_o what_o that_o be_v she_o know_v not_o for_o to_o her_o think_n she_o have_v no_o spirit_n at_o all_o and_o indeed_o she_o be_v now_o in_o a_o region_n of_o all_o other_o most_o distant_a from_o spirit_n and_o spiritual_a operation_n i_o mean_v such_o as_o be_v perceptible_a her_o prayer_n &_o recollection_n be_v most_o grievous_a unto_o she_o because_o infinite_o difficult_a by_o reason_n that_o sense_n and_o nature_n which_o most_o abhor_v they_o be_v now_o almost_o only_o active_a and_o operative_a in_o she_o and_o the_o recollection_n which_o she_o endeavour_n to_o make_v be_v not_o only_o insipid_a but_z as_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o utter_o inefficacious_a so_o that_o she_o oft_o suspect_v that_o it_o be_v better_a perhaps_o if_o she_o be_v quite_o extrovert_v yet_o for_o all_o that_o she_o dare_v not_o altogether_o quit_v her_o endeavour_n to_o practice_v recollection_n but_o yet_o she_o know_n not_o why_o 5._o now_o if_o all_o these_o disorder_n continue_v only_o for_o some_o short_a time_n she_o may_v without_o extreme_a difficulty_n practice_v patience_n as_o she_o do_v in_o her_o former_a aridity_n and_o desolation_n but_o alas_o this_o most_o afflict_a martyrdom_n oftentimes_o continue_v many_o month_n yea_o in_o some_o person_n several_a year_n not_o always_o in_o extremity_n but_o with_o some_o intercision_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n come_v in_o a_o manner_n to_o loose_v all_o patience_n she_o often_o complain_v in_o her_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o desert_v she_o that_o will_v fain_o not_o desert_n he_o yet_o when_o she_o make_v such_o prayer_n to_o her_o seem_v her_o spirit_n will_v not_o join_v if_o she_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v but_o mere_o to_o suffer_v it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o but_o she_o know_v it_o be_v her_o duty_n to_o work_v and_o to_o raise_v herself_o up_o by_o prayer_n and_o this_o she_o can_v do_v she_o stand_v in_o need_n now_o of_o as_o gross_a operation_n to_o cause_v a_o introversion_n as_o ever_o and_o yet_o those_o gross_a operation_n have_v not_o so_o good_a a_o effect_n as_o in_o her_o former_a imperfect_a state_n 6._o moreover_o the_o tentation_n which_o she_o now_o suffer_v be_v both_o so_o violent_a and_o her_o resistance_n so_o feeble_a they_o be_v withal_o so_o unexpected_a so_o secret_a and_o subtle_a that_o notwithstanding_o any_o information_n that_o she_o former_o have_v by_o read_v or_o otherway_n touch_v such_o a_o condition_n of_o suffer_v to_o be_v expect_v yet_o when_o it_o come_v she_o will_v scarce_o be_v persuade_v that_o this_o can_v be_v possible_o a_o way_n to_o perfection_n or_o conduce_v to_o her_o good_a all_o her_o former_a light_n and_o instruction_n will_v scarce_o at_o all_o diminish_v her_o resentment_n of_o her_o deplorable_a condition_n she_o lose_v nothing_o of_o her_o former_a light_n for_o soul_n arrive_v to_o this_o state_n be_v not_o to_o seek_v or_o to_o learn_v how_o and_o in_o what_o manner_n they_o be_v to_o exercise_v themselves_o interior_o they_o study_v no_o more_o for_o that_o than_o one_o will_v do_v how_o he_o may_v see_v with_o his_o eye_n or_o hear_v with_o his_o ear_n have_v the_o perfect_a use_n of_o his_o sense_n but_o when_o she_o be_v to_o practice_v according_a to_o this_o light_n she_o have_v no_o satisfaction_n at_o all_o if_o she_o have_v any_o difficulty_n or_o obscurity_n it_o be_v how_o she_o be_v to_o comport_v herself_o in_o external_a matter_n &_o even_o this_o obscurity_n be_v but_o very_o small_a but_o however_o she_o think_v that_o all_o the_o light_n she_o have_v serve_v to_o little_a purpose_n find_v that_o notwithstanding_o it_o she_o work_n as_o if_o she_o have_v no_o light_n at_o all_o in_o a_o word_n she_o now_o see_v she_o own_o natural_a misery_n so_o perfect_o yea_o and_o can_v see_v nothing_o but_o it_o that_o she_o can_v see_v how_o god_n can_v comfort_v she_o if_o he_o will_v 7._o all_o this_o show_n that_o notwithstanding_o all_o her_o precedent_a exercise_n yea_o that_o during_o the_o forego_n divine_a inaction_n yet_o many_o dregs_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n do_v remain_v in_o she_o they_o be_v only_o hide_v but_o not_o extinguish_v this_o therefore_o be_v the_o only_a forcible_a expedient_a leave_v to_o destroy_v in_o a_o manner_n all_o the_o sinful_a inclination_n of_o nature_n in_o she_o indeed_o to_o natural_a reason_n this_o seem_v a_o strange_a and_o most_o improper_a remedy_n to_o destroy_v nature_n by_o suspend_v the_o influence_n and_o operation_n of_o grace_n and_o by_o suffer_a nature_n to_o break_v forth_o violent_o without_o any_o control_n and_o restraint_n all_o sensible_a light_n in_o the_o
understanding_n and_o fervour_n in_o the_o will_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n extinguish_v yet_o out_o of_o this_o darkness_n god_n produce_v light_a and_o strength_n from_o this_o infirmity_n 8._o for_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o in_o this_o case_n of_o desolation_n the_o soul_n do_v by_o her_o free_a will_n or_o rather_o in_o the_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n beyond_o all_o her_o faculty_n remain_v in_o a_o constant_a union_n &_o adhesion_n to_o god_n although_o no_o such_o union_n do_v appear_v unto_o she_o yea_o though_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o that_o she_o be_v not_o only_o estrange_v but_o even_o avert_v from_o god_n and_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o most_o secret_a but_o firm_a adhesion_n she_o make_v election_n of_o god_n as_o her_o only_a good_a the_o which_o may_v to_o any_o but_o herself_o sufficient_o appear_v by_o her_o carriage_n during_o that_o state_n for_o she_o break_v not_o out_o into_o any_o murmur_n she_o seek_v not_o to_o comfort_v herself_o by_o admit_v any_o inordinate_a externall_n solace_n not_o do_v any_o thing_n deliberate_o by_o which_o to_o rid_v herself_o from_o such_o a_o afflict_a estate_n soon_o or_o otherwise_o then_o god_n will_v have_v she_o to_o do_v she_o practise_v tranquillity_n of_o mind_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o tempest_n of_o passion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n she_o exercise_v resignation_n without_o the_o least_o contentment_n to_o herself_o therein_o she_o learn_v patience_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o impatience_n &_o resignation_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o irresignation_n in_o a_o word_n she_o yield_v herself_o as_o a_o prey_n unto_o almighty_a god_n to_o be_v cast_v into_o this_o most_o sharp_a purgatory_n of_o love._n the_o which_o be_v a_o immediate_a dispoition_n to_o a_o establish_a state_n of_o perfection_n 9_o more_o particular_o the_o fruit_n &_o benefit_n flow_a from_o this_o most_o sad_a estate_n support_v with_o patience_n &_o tranquillity_n of_o spirit_n be_v wonderful_a 1._o for_o first_o hereby_o the_o devout_a soul_n obtain_v a_o new_a light_n to_o penetrate_v into_o the_o mystery_n of_o our_o lord_n desertion_n in_o the_o garden_n &_o on_o the_o cross_n &_o from_o this_o light_n a_o most_o inflame_a love_n to_o he_o now_o she_o cease_v to_o wander_v why_o he_o shall_v deprecate_v a_o cup_n so_o mortal_o bitter_a as_o this_o &_o that_o it_o shall_v work_v such_o strange_a effect_n on_o he_o or_o that_o he_o shall_v cry_v out_o eli_n eli_n lammasabacthani_fw-la &_o by_o this_o desertion_n of_o his_o which_o last_v till_o the_o very_a last_o moment_n of_o his_o life_n she_o hope_v to_o have_v a_o end_n put_v to_o she_o 2._o now_o she_o learn_v by_o experience_n to_o make_v a_o division_n between_o the_o supreme_a portion_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o inferior_a nature_n yea_o between_o the_o summity_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o same_o for_o that_o portion_n of_o she_o by_o which_o she_o cleave_v to_o god_n seem_v to_o be_v a_o other_o three_o person_n distinct_a from_o herself_o that_o suffer_v complain_v and_o desire_n for_o she_o choose_v god_n and_o at_o the_o same_o time_n fear_v that_o she_o will_v choose_v and_o consent_v to_o sin_n she_o be_v mighty_o support_v by_o god_n and_o yet_o she_o think_v he_o utter_o estrange_v and_o separate_v from_o she_o thus_o at_o last_o she_o perceive_v that_o she_o can_v operate_v without_o any_o perceptible_a use_n of_o her_o faculty_n 3._o hereby_o she_o learn_v a_o perfect_a disappropriation_n and_o transcendence_n even_o of_o the_o high_a gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o a_o contentation_n to_o be_v deprive_v of_o the_o great_a blessing_n that_o god_n have_v to_o bestow_v on_o she_o except_o only_o himself_o 4._o the_o sight_n of_o the_o unexpressible_a weakness_n and_o perverseness_n of_o nature_n leave_v to_o itself_o without_o any_o sensible_a influence_n of_o grace_n upon_o the_o inferior_a faculty_n produce_v in_o she_o a_o most_o profound_a humility_n and_o hatred_n of_o herself_o 5._o last_o by_o this_o most_o sharp_a purgatory_n of_o love_n she_o enter_v into_o a_o state_n of_o most_o perfect_a confidence_n in_o god_n of_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n and_o security_n of_o god_n unchangeable_a love_n to_o she_o not_o to_o be_v disturb_v by_o any_o possible_a future_a affliction_n for_o what_o have_v a_o soul_n leave_v to_o fear_n that_o can_v with_o a_o peaceable_a mind_n support_v yea_o and_o make_v her_o benefit_n of_o the_o absence_n of_o god_n himself_o chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o of_o the_o end_n of_o all_o the_o precedent_a exercise_n and_o of_o all_o the_o change_n in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n to_o wit_n a_o stable_a state_n of_o perfection_n and_o prayer_n §_o 4._o 5._o wherein_o that_o state_n consist_v the_o testimony_n of_o suso_n §_o 6._o 7._o the_o wonderful_a purity_n and_o sublimity_n of_o the_o soul_n operation_n in_o this_o state_n out_o of_o barbanson_n etc._n etc._n §_o 9_o 10._o of_o the_o union_n of_o nothing_o with_o nothing_o etc._n etc._n §_o 11._o the_o sublimity_n of_o angelical_a love_n in_o perfect_a soul_n §_o 12._o a_o conclusion_n of_o the_o whole_a book_n 1._o it_o remain_v only_o for_o a_o conclusion_n of_o the_o whole_a book_n that_o something_o be_v say_v of_o the_o end_n of_o all_o these_o exercise_n of_o mortification_n and_o prayer_n in_o which_o there_o be_v so_o great_a variety_n of_o degree_n and_o change_n 2._o and_o sure_o that_o end_n must_v needs_o be_v supereminent_o excellent_a for_o the_o attain_n whereof_o such_o incredible_a labour_n both_o interior_a and_o exterior_a must_v be_v undertake_v and_o whereto_o such_o wonderful_a divine_a grace_n and_o visit_n be_v only_o instrumental_a disposition_n suso_n write_v from_o his_o own_o experience_n concern_v the_o foresay_a passive_a union_n by_o which_o a_o soul_n have_v a_o distinct_a view_n of_o of_o god_n her_o original_a say_v that_o though_o the_o say_a contemplation_n continue_v but_o as_o it_o be_v a_o moment_n it_o so_o replenish_v his_o heart_n with_o joy_n that_o he_o wonder_v it_o do_v not_o cleave_v asunder_o on_o the_o other_o side_n upon_o the_o subsequent_a most_o contrary_a visitation_n by_o a_o spiritual_a desertion_n the_o heart_n become_v so_o replenish_v with_o bitterness_n and_o anguish_n as_o if_o all_o gilead_n have_v not_o balm_n enough_o to_o assuage_v it_o 3._o and_o for_o what_o end_v all_o this_o sure_o not_o that_o a_o man_n shall_v rest_v final_o in_o the_o joy_n conceive_v by_o such_o a_o fruition_n nor_o mere_o to_o torture_v the_o soul_n by_o such_o a_o bitter_a desolation_n our_o supreme_a happiness_n be_v not_o receive_v but_o love_v all_o these_o favour_n therefore_o and_o all_o these_o suffering_n do_v end_n in_o this_o namely_o the_o accomplish_n of_o this_o love_n in_o our_o soul_n so_o that_o all_o our_o perfection_n consist_v in_o a_o state_n of_o love_n and_o a_o entire_a conformity_n with_o the_o divine_a will._n 4._o there_o be_v therefore_o in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n no_o strange_a novelty_n or_o wonder_n pretend_v to_o divine_a love_n be_v all_o it_o begin_v with_o love_n and_o resignation_n and_o there_o it_o end_v likewise_o all_o the_o difference_n be_v in_o the_o degree_n &_o lustre_n of_o it_o love_n even_o in_o its_o most_o imperfect_a state_n be_v most_o divine_o beautiful_a the_o which_o beauty_n be_v wonderful_o increase_v by_o exercise_n but_o when_o by_o such_o fiery_a trial_n and_o purification_n as_o also_o by_o so_o near_o approach_v as_o be_v make_v to_o the_o fountain_n of_o beauty_n and_o light_n in_o passive_a union_n this_o love_n be_v exalt_v to_o its_o perfection_n how_o new_a how_o admirable_a and_o incomprehensible_a to_o we_o imperfect_a soul_n be_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o exercise_v of_o it_o we_o must_v content_v ourselves_o to_o hear_v those_o speak_v of_o it_o that_o have_v have_v some_o experience_n in_o it_o and_o if_o what_o they_o say_v be_v incomprehensible_a to_o we_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o wonder_n at_o it_o 5._o that_o which_o the_o forementioned_a suso_n in_o his_o nine_o rock_n write_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o love_n in_o gross_a be_v not_o so_o abstruse_a o_o how_o small_a say_v he_o be_v the_o number_n of_o those_o perfect_a soul_n and_o yet_o as_o few_o as_o they_o be_v god_n set_v they_o as_o pillar_n to_o support_v his_o church_n so_o that_o if_o it_o be_v not_o for_o they_o it_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v dissipate_v the_o prayer_n of_o one_o such_o soul_n be_v of_o more_o efficacy_n then_o of_o all_o christian_n beside_o they_o approach_v very_o near_o to_o god_n their_o original_a and_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o vile_a esteem_n that_o they_o have_v of_o themselves_o they_o themselves_o be_v not_o assure_v of_o this_o yet_o by_o fit_n a_o certain_a clarity_n or_o glimpse_n of_o their_o prime_a principle_n be_v communicate_v to_o they_o by_o which_o
be_v make_v of_o prosperity_n §_o 8._o 9_o the_o great_a benefit_n of_o mortification_n §_o 10._o a_o great_a courage_n be_v necessary_a to_o the_o due_a practice_n of_o mortification_n §_o 11._o 12._o 13._o 14._o the_o advice_n of_o some_o writer_n to_o raise_v passion_n to_o the_o end_n afterward_o to_o repress_v they_o be_v dangerous_a 1._o natural_o we_o love_v &_o seek_v nothing_o but_o ourselves_o in_o all_o thing_n whatsoever_o we_o love_v &_o seek_v we_o be_v our_o own_o last_o end_n refer_v all_o thing_n even_o supernatural_a yea_o god_n himself_o to_o our_o own_o interest_n &_o commodity_n we_o seek_v thing_n please_v only_o to_o our_o sense_n outward_a or_o inward_a as_o if_o the_o felicity_n of_o our_o soul_n &_o person_n consist_v in_o sensual_a pleasure_n opinion_n of_o honour_n profit_n or_o curiosity_n of_o knowledge_n &c_n &c_n therefore_o there_o can_v be_v no_o merit_n in_o nature_n or_o action_n proceed_v from_o nature_n 2._o yea_o they_o who_o natural_o have_v much_o interior_a composednes_n &_o stillnes_n of_o passion_n &_o seem_v not_o much_o to_o be_v trouble_v with_o rebellion_n in_o sensuality_n &_o that_o moreover_o have_v in_o they_o a_o kind_n of_o natural_a devotion_n yet_o even_o these_o whatsoever_o they_o appear_v outward_o in_o show_v be_v full_a of_o self_n love_n which_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o all_o their_o action_n if_o they_o love_v quietness_n it_o be_v because_o nature_n take_v a_o contentment_n in_o it_o and_o their_o self-love_n be_v more_o abstruse_a &_o more_o deep_o seat_v in_o the_o root_n of_o the_o spirit_n itself_o and_o therefore_o ofttimes_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o be_v cure_v because_o not_o so_o easy_o discover_v neither_o indeed_o be_v there_o any_o hope_n of_o remedy_n till_o by_o prayer_n they_o get_v a_o light_n to_o discover_v the_o say_a secret_a self_n love_n and_o grace_n by_o mortification_n to_o subdue_v it_o 3._o it_o be_v true_a such_o good_a natural_a disposition_n may_v be_v beneficial_a to_o soul_n in_o two_o respect_n especial_o first_o in_o that_o by_o mean_n thereof_o they_o fall_v into_o fewer_n sin_n then_o more_o passionate_a impetuous_a nature_n do_v &_o consequent_o do_v not_o put_v so_o many_o impediment_n to_o grace_n but_o yet_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v unless_o they_o practise_v prayer_n &_o mortification_n they_o will_v increase_v in_o spiritual_a pride_n for_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o nature_n not_o restrain_v will_v one_o way_n or_o other_o grow_v more_o &_o more_o inordinate_a 2._o a_o second_o benefit_n be_v that_o such_o disposition_n be_v better_o fit_v for_o internal_a prayer_n yea_o to_o the_o perfect_a kind_n of_o it_o which_o be_v prayer_n of_o aspiration_n so_o that_o they_o may_v with_o less_o labour_n get_v out_o of_o nature_n elevate_n themselves_o to_o god_n 4._o a_o absolute_a necessity_n therefore_o there_o be_v for_o all_o soul_n to_o mortify_v nature_n &_o especial_o to_o rectify_v this_o general_a depravednes_n of_o propriety_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o ourselves_o our_o last_a end_n the_o which_o be_v do_v by_o the_o infusion_n of_o divine_a charity_n by_o which_o ourselves_o be_v direct_v to_o god_n as_o our_o last_o end_n and_o a_o necessary_a disposition_n thereto_o be_v the_o mortification_n of_o self_n love_n and_o thus_o far_o all_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o mortify_v themselves_o namely_o to_o cure_v the_o mortal_o sinful_a disorder_n of_o their_o soul_n a_o necessity_n likewise_o there_o be_v upon_o supposition_n of_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n to_o mortify_v all_o deliberate_a affection_n to_o any_o the_o least_o venial_a defect_n and_o deordination_n of_o our_o soul_n the_o which_o duty_n of_o mortification_n require_v of_o we_o that_o deliberate_o and_o customary_o we_o neither_o admit_v into_o our_o mind_n internal_o vain_a thought_n nor_o outward_o speak_v or_o exercise_v act_n of_o vain_a love_n vain_a hope_n vain_a fear_n or_o vain_a sorrow_o &_o all_o be_v vain_a that_o be_v not_o refer_v to_o god_n or_o be_v not_o do_v for_o he_o 5._o mortification_n tend_v to_o subject_v the_o body_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o spirit_n to_o god_n and_o this_o it_o do_v by_o cross_v the_o inclination_n of_o sense_n which_o be_v quite_o contrary_a to_o those_o of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v our_o chief_a &_o only_a principle_n for_o by_o such_o cross_n &_o afflict_v of_o the_o body_n self-love_n &_o selfewill_n the_o poison_n of_o our_o spirit_n be_v abate_v &_o in_o time_n in_o a_o sort_n destroy_v &_o instead_o of_o they_o there_o enter_v into_o the_o soul_n the_o divine_a love_n &_o divine_a will_n &_o take_v possession_n thereof_o and_o therein_o consist_v our_o perfection_n &_o happiness_n 6._o for_o this_o reason_n the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o secure_a state_n when_o cross_n &_o affliction_n do_v exceed_v world_o contentment_n &_o sensual_a ease_n for_o wonderful_a seldom_o it_o happen_v that_o a_o soul_n make_v any_o progress_n in_o a_o spiritual_a course_n by_o mean_n of_o outward_a prosperity_n some_o perfect_a soul_n may_v perhaps_o keep_v the_o station_n in_o which_o they_o be_v not_o withstand_v a_o casefull_a content_v &_o abound_a condition_n in_o the_o world_n but_o it_o be_v almost_o miraculous_a if_o they_o thereby_o advance_v themselves_o in_o spirit_n so_o natural_o &_o almost_o necessary_o do_v case_n of_o nature_n nourish_v self-love_n pride_n security_n a_o spiritual_a sloth_n &_o a_o distaste_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n 7._o indeed_o the_o only_a possible_a way_n for_o a_o soul_n to_o make_v prosperity_n a_o occasion_n of_o improvement_n to_o she_o be_v by_o a_o voluntary_a cross_n &_o diminish_v of_o it_o that_o be_v by_o take_v advantage_n even_o from_o thence_o to_o mortify_v nature_n as_o for_o example_n in_o case_n of_o riches_n &_o honour_n by_o carry_v ourselves_o both_o exterior_o &_o interior_o to_o god_n &_o man_n with_o more_o humility_n &_o modesty_n as_o if_o we_o be_v not_o at_o all_o in_o such_o plenty_n &_o eminency_n also_o by_o suppress_v vain_a joy_n &_o complacency_n in_o such_o thing_n by_o acknowledge_v that_o we_o be_v not_o lord_n &_o proprietaire_n but_o only_a steward_n &_o dispenser_n of_o such_o thing_n from_o who_o a_o severe_a account_n shall_v be_v require_v for_o the_o talent_n entrust_v to_o we_o for_o other_o sake_n &_o not_o our_o own_o so_o that_o it_o be_v most_o true_a that_o all_o the_o security_n solidity_n &_o fullnes_n of_o our_o soul_n good_a consist_v in_o a_o right_a use_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v contrary_a &_o afflict_v to_o our_o nature_n 8._o in_o general_n mortification_n include_v the_o exercise_n of_o all_o virtue_n for_o in_o every_o act_n of_o virtue_n we_o mortify_v some_o inordinate_a passion_n &_o inclination_n of_o nature_n or_o other_o so_o that_o to_o attain_v to_o perfect_a mortification_n be_v to_o be_v possess_v of_o all_o virtue_n 9_o the_o benefit_n &_o blessing_n that_o come_v to_o our_o soul_n by_o exercise_v of_o mortification_n be_v many_o &_o most_o precious_a as_o 1._o there_o be_v thereby_o avoid_v that_o sin_n which_o otherwise_o will_v have_v be_v commit_v 2._o it_o cause_v a_o degree_n of_o purity_n to_o the_o soul_n 3._o it_o procure_v great_a grace_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n 4._o one_o act_n of_o mortification_n enable_v to_o another_o as_o on_o the_o contrary_a by_o yield_v any_o time_n to_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n we_o be_v enfeeble_v &_o less_o able_a to_o resist_v another_o time_n 5._o it_o diminish_v our_o suffer_v in_o purgatory_n because_o so_o much_o of_o suffer_v be_v past_a &_o a_o little_a pain_n for_o the_o present_n will_v countervail_v &_o prevent_v sharp_a &_o long_a pain_n for_o the_o future_a 6._o it_o procure_v internal_a light_n by_o dispel_v &_o calm_v the_o unrulines_n of_o passion_n 7._o it_o produce_v great_a peace_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o which_o be_v disturb_v only_o by_o unquiet_a passion_n 8._o it_o help_v the_o soul_n much_o in_o her_o advancement_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n &_o contemplation_n the_o end_n of_o all_o our_o religious_a &_o spiritual_a exercise_n 9_o it_o be_v of_o great_a edification_n to_o our_o brethren_n &_o neighbour_n 10._o it_o increase_v all_o these_o way_n our_o future_a happiness_n &_o glory_n 10._o the_o duty_n of_o mortification_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a &_o so_o infinite_o beneficial_a &_o moreover_o so_o large_o extend_v as_o that_o it_o reach_v to_o all_o manner_n of_o natural_a inclination_n in_o so_o much_o as_o nothing_o do_v a_o imperfect_a soul_n any_o good_a further_o than_o it_o be_v cross_v &_o mortify_v to_o some_o inordination_n in_o her_o natural_a inclination_n it_o follow_v from_o hence_o that_o a_o soul_n that_o intend_v to_o walk_v in_o these_o way_n of_o contemplation_n have_v need_n have_v a_o great_a courage_n since_o her_o design_n must_v be_v to_o combat_v